Apparatus and method for detecting a distribution event in a wholesale product distribution system

Abstract

Apparatus and Method for Detecting a Dispensing Event in a Wholesale Product Distribution System. Certain aspects of the invention relate to an apparatus for detecting a dispensing event in a wholesale product distribution system, a wholesale product distribution system, and a method. The apparatus comprises: a sensor arrangement for detecting product flow through a detection zone, the sensor arrangement comprising a transmitter module and a receiver module, wherein, during operation, product flow through the detection zone causes a change in the emission beam between the transmitter module and the receiver module; and at least one retaining device for retaining the sensor arrangement around the detection zone. Figure for the abstract Figure 2

Description

Title of the invention: Apparatus and method for detecting a distribution event in a wholesale product distribution system

[0001] The invention relates to an apparatus, a wholesale product distribution system and a method. CONTEXT

[0002] To reduce packaging waste, retailers are increasingly supplying products using bulk product dispensing systems. Bulk product dispensing systems include a dispenser including a hopper or other container for storing a bulk product in large quantities. A customer operates the dispenser to dispense a desired amount of product into a container, and weighs the dispensed product on a scale to produce a label for scanning at a point of sale. In this way, the customer can reuse containers to reduce packaging waste and choose a customized amount of product to purchase.

[0003] It may be desirable to detect dispensing events, i.e., to detect each time a dispenser is operated to monitor the number of expected transactions for the product. To accomplish this, an accelerometer sensor is provided on a dispenser handle to detect actuation.

[0004] Such detection is associated with a number of problems, including limited battery life of the sensors, difficulty in replacing a hopper for cleaning due to the integrated electronics, and poor detection accuracy due to false readings from jerky movement of the dispenser handles.

[0005] The examples disclosed herein address one or more of the aforementioned problems. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] According to the present inventions, there is provided an apparatus, a wholesale product distribution system and a method as described in the appended claims.

[0007] According to a first aspect, there is provided an apparatus for detecting a dispensing event in a wholesale product dispensing system, the apparatus comprising: a sensor arrangement for detecting a flow of product through a detection zone, the sensor arrangement comprising a transmitter module and a receiver module, wherein, in use, the flow of product through the detection zone causes a transmission beam to change between the transmitter module and the receiver module; at least one retaining device for retaining the sensor arrangement around the detection zone. For example, the flow of product may cause the transmission beam to break. Alternatively or additionally, the flow of product may cause the transmission beam to change beyond a predefined threshold, such as an intensity threshold, a frequency threshold, or an amplitude threshold. The at least one retaining device may be a detector frame.

[0008] Advantageously, the apparatus is arranged to detect the flow of the product itself, and thus can accurately detect successful dispensing events without being triggered, for example, by a handle actuation if the dispenser is empty, or mistakenly triggered multiple times by irregular actuation of the handle.

[0009] In some embodiments, the apparatus includes an attachment extending from the at least one retainer, the attachment being configured to mount the apparatus to a surface. Advantageously, the apparatus may be mounted, via the attachment, independently of the dispenser below a spout of the dispenser. This allows the apparatus to be used with a range of dispenser types, the dispenser to be easily replaced for cleaning, and the sensor arrangement to be provided with hard-wired power and data links, via the attachment, thereby avoiding the need for battery replacement. In some embodiments, the attachment may be connected to an orientation apparatus located adjacent to, i.e., below, the sensor arrangement of the apparatus. This allows product to flow more accurately into a receptacle.

[0010] The apparatus may include an attachment mechanism for releasably attaching a bulk product hopper to the apparatus, such that when the bulk product hopper is attached to the apparatus, a dispensing path from a spout of the bulk product hopper intersects the detection zone of the sensor arrangement. Thus, the hopper may be easily aligned with the detection zone while being easily attached and detached from the apparatus.

[0011] Optionally, the transmitter module is disposed on a first side of the detection area and the receiver module is disposed on a second side of the detection area opposite the transmitter module. Optionally, the at least one retainer includes a detector frame surrounding the detection area, the transmitter module is disposed on a first inner surface of the detector frame facing the detection area, and the receiver module is disposed on a second inner surface of the detector frame opposite the first inner surface and facing the detection area. Thus, the detector frame may define a boundary of the detection area. detection. Advantageously, surrounding the detection area with the frame ensures structural rigidity of the frame to prevent tampering.

[0012] The detector frame may be a polygonal frame, with the transmitter module being retained on a first side of the polygonal frame and the receiver module being retained on a second, opposite side of the polygonal frame. For example, the polygonal frame may be square or rectangular. The detector frame may be formed from a rigid material.

[0013] The apparatus may optionally include an electronic shelf label, ESL, mounted on an exterior surface of the at least one retainer. Advantageously, the apparatus provides a location for mounting an ESL separately from the hopper.

[0014] The attachment may include a mounting mechanism for mounting the apparatus to a surface, a first flexible arm portion attached to the sensor frame, and a second rigid arm portion connecting the first flexible arm portion to the mounting mechanism. Advantageously, the rigid arm portion provides structural support for securing the apparatus while the flexible portion allows for some movement of the sensor arrangement when attaching or detaching the bulk hopper to prevent damage to the apparatus. The first flexible arm portion may be formed from a plastic molding and the second rigid arm portion may be metallic. Optionally, the first flexible arm portion includes an accordion-like surface. Optionally, the mounting mechanism is configured to mount the apparatus to a movable mechanism, such as a cantilever, that is mounted to the surface.Advantageously, the movable mechanism allows the dispenser to be moved relative to the surface, about a pivot point, so that the location of the dispenser is extended forward from the surface, and from any other dispensers mounted on the surface. In addition, the movable mechanism allows the dispenser to be lowered from its original location. Thus, the movable mechanism allows easy access to the dispenser for cleaning and refilling.

[0015] The sensor arrangement may comprise a plurality of transmitter modules and a plurality of corresponding receiver modules. Optionally, the sensor arrangement comprises: a plurality of transmitter and receiver modules alternately spaced along a first side of the detection zone; and a corresponding plurality of transmitter and receiver modules alternately spaced along a second side of the detection zone, such that each transmitter module opposes a receiver module and vice versa; wherein, in use, the flow of product through the detection zone causes a transmission beam to change between at least one of the transmitter modules and its opposing receiver module. The plurality of alternately spaced emitter and receiver modules may be spaced at intervals of between 5 mm and 15 mm, for example 10 mm or 12 mm. Advantageously, the alternating spacing allows the emission beams of each module to fully interlock without gaps in the detection zone, thereby allowing product to be detected at any location within the detection zone.

[0016] Optionally, the or each emitter module comprises an infrared, IR, emitter module configured to generate an IR pulse and the or each receiver module comprises an infrared, IR, receiver module configured to detect the IR pulse generated by the corresponding IR emitter module. The IR emitter module may comprise an LED, and the IR receiver module may comprise a photodiode.Alternatively, the or each transmitter module may be configured to emit another type of electromagnetic, EM, wave, such as visible light, or another type of wave such as an ultrasonic beam. Each receiver module may be configured to detect the wave emitted by the transmitter module. Optionally, each transmitter module is arranged to generate an IR pulse emission beam at 300-400 Hz, such as 333 Hz.

[0017] The apparatus may further include at least one power line mounted on the fixture for supplying electrical power to the sensor arrangement from an external power supply. The apparatus may further include at least one wired data connection mounted on the fixture for supplying sensor data from the sensor arrangement to an external control device.

[0018] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a bulk product dispensing system comprising: an apparatus as described herein, and a bulk product hopper removably attached to the apparatus, such that a dispensing path from a spout of the bulk product hopper intersects the detection zone of the sensor arrangement.

[0019] The bulk product dispensing system may also include a control module communicatively coupled to the sensor arrangement, wherein the control module is arranged to: receive a detection signal from the sensor arrangement indicating that the transmission beam between the transmitter module and the receiver module has been changed; and determine that a dispensing event has occurred for the bulk product hopper based on receiving the detection signal.

[0020] Optionally, the bulk product dispensing system also includes a weighing apparatus, the control module being configured to transmit a control signal to a weighing apparatus based on determining that a dispensing event has occurred for the bulk product hopper, and the apparatus weighing device being configured to display an indication of the dispensing event for the bulk product hopper on a display device of the weighing device.

[0021] Optionally, the bulk product dispensing system includes another apparatus as described in the present invention, and another bulk product hopper removably attached to the other apparatus, the control module being communicatively coupled with the sensor arrangement of each of the apparatus and the other apparatus.

[0022] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a method of detecting a dispensing event using the bulk product dispensing system described herein, comprising: generating, at the transmitter module, the transmission beam; detecting, at the receiver module, a change in the transmission beam; based on detecting the alteration in the transmission beam, transmitting a detection signal to the control module; and determining that a dispensing event has occurred for the bulk product hopper based on receiving the detection signal. Brief description of the drawings

[0023] Embodiments of the invention are further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0024] [Fig.l] is a schematic illustration of a wholesale product distribution system according to one embodiment;

[0025] [Fig.2] is an illustration of an apparatus according to one embodiment;

[0026] [Fig.3A] illustrates a sensor arrangement of an apparatus according to a mode of realization ;

[0027] [Fig.3B] shows a timing diagram representing pulses emitted by the sensor arrangement;

[0028] [Fig.4] represents a distribution system according to one embodiment;

[0029] [Fig.5] is a schematic illustration of a control system according to a mode of realization; and

[0030] [Fig.6] is a flowchart of a method according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] The examples described herein relate to a wholesale product distribution system. Referring to [Fig. 1], there is shown a schematic illustration of a wholesale product distribution system 1000 according to one embodiment of the invention. The wholesale product distribution system 1000 is generally disposed in a retail environment, such as a supermarket or the like, where a retailer may facilitate the wholesale or bulk purchase of goods.

[0032] The bulk product dispensing system 1000 includes one or more bulk product hoppers 110a, 110b. The illustrated system 1000 includes two hoppers 110a, 110b, but in other embodiments the system 1000 may include only one hopper 110a, or may include additional hoppers.

[0033] Each bulk product hopper 110a, 110b is arranged to store a bulk product and dispense the bulk product to customers. For example, the bulk product hopper 110a, 110b may be arranged to store a bulk food product such as cereal, pasta, coffee, or the like. The bulk product hopper 110a, 110b may be used to store any product that can be dispensed and sold by unit weight in the retail environment. Typically, a respective hopper 110a, 110b will be provided for each type of bulk product sold by the retailer.

[0034] The bulk product hopper 110a, 110b includes a dispensing spout 114a, 114b and an actuator (not shown) such as a handle, knob, or the like. In use, a customer actuates the actuator, for example by pulling a handle, causing the dispensing spout 114a, 114b of the hopper to open and dispensing of the product contained in the hopper 110a, 110b. The customer may choose to stop dispensing the product, for example by releasing the actuator, causing the dispensing spout 114a, 114b to close and stopping the flow of the product.

[0035] Once a customer has completed dispensing a product from the hopper 110a, 110b, the customer brings a container containing the dispensed product to a weighing apparatus 130 for weighing. The weighing apparatus 130 includes a scale (not shown) and a user interface including a display 132. The customer may select the product type via the user interface and weigh the dispensed product on the scale. The weighing apparatus 130 may further include a printer for printing a label indicating the product type, weight, and price for scanning at a point of sale.

[0036] To improve the customer experience at the wholesale product dispensing system 1000, it may be desirable for the weighing apparatus to be able to predict which product will be weighed next by a customer. In this way, the weighing apparatus 130 can preemptively display the intended product on the display device 132 for the customer to select. This may be particularly advantageous in a large retail environment having a large number of products and thus a large number of hoppers 110a, 110b in the wholesale product dispensing system 120, which requires the customer to search through a large number of product types at the weighing apparatus 130. To this end, the wholesale product dispensing system 1000 is configured to detect whenever a distribution occurs at each hopper 110a, 110b, and to communicate this information to the weighing device 130.

[0037] To facilitate detection of dispensing events, the bulk product dispensing system 1000 includes an apparatus 112a, 112b associated with each bulk product hopper 110a, 110b. Each apparatus 112a, 112b includes a sensor arrangement for detecting product flow from the spout 114a, 114b of the respective hopper 110a, 110b. A control system 120 of the bulk product dispensing system 1000 is configured to receive sensor data from each sensor arrangement and determine when a dispensing event occurs for each hopper 110a, 110b. The control system 120 is then configured to communicate an indication of each dispensing event to the weighing apparatus 130.

[0038] Referring to [Fig.2], an apparatus 200 is shown according to one embodiment for detecting a distribution event in a wholesale product distribution system such as system 1000. The apparatus 200 may correspond to the apparatus 112a, 112b.

[0039] The apparatus 200 comprises a sensor arrangement 210 for detecting a flow of product through a detection zone 211, in particular, the flow of product from the spout 114a, 114b of a hopper 110a, 110b. The detection zone 211 corresponds to an area through which the product will pass when dispensing from the hopper 110a, 110b, for example an area immediately below the spout 114a, 114b or at a predetermined distance from the spout along a dispensing path, for example 1 cm or 2 cm below the spout 114a, 114b. The sensor arrangement 210 includes a transmitter module 210a configured to generate a transmission beam and a receiver module 210b configured to detect the transmission beam generated by the transmitter module 210a.

[0040] The transmitter module 210a and the receiver module 210b are distributed around the detection area 211 such that in use, the flow of the product in the detection area 211 causes a modification of the emission beam generated by the transmitter module 210a. The flow of the product through the detection area 211 may cause the emission beam to break, or otherwise modify it beyond a predefined threshold. For example, the predefined threshold may be a change in intensity, amplitude or frequency of the emission beam. Thus, the presence of the product flow within the detection area 211 causes a modification or a break in the beam detected by the receiver module 210b.

[0041] The transmitter module 210a and the receiver module 210b may be configured to use any type of waveform, such as an electromagnetic wave, an ultrasonic wave, or the like. In one embodiment, the sensor arrangement 210 is an infrared, IR, sensor arrangement 210. Thus, the transmitter module 210a comprises an infrared, IR, transmitter module 210a (e.g., an LED) configured to generate an IR pulse emission beam and the receiver module 210b comprises an infrared, IR, receiver module 210b (e.g., an IR receiver, a photodiode) configured to detect the IR pulse emission beam generated by the corresponding IR transmitter module 210a. The frequency of the emission beam can be adjusted depending on the type of product to be sensed, but an IR pulse emission beam in the range of 300-400 Hz, e.g., 333 Hz, has been found to have suitable detection accuracy.

[0042] The apparatus 200 comprises at least one retaining device 220 in the form of a detector frame 220 for retaining the sensor arrangement 210 around the detection area 211. The detector frame 220 is formed from a rigid material, such as plastic, metal or the like, and serves as a support for the sensor arrangement 210 such that the transmitter module 210a and the receiver module 210b are disposed at predetermined positions relative to the detection area 211. In the illustrated embodiment, the detector frame 220 places the transmitter module 210a on a first side of the detection area and the receiver module 210b on a second side of the detection area 211 opposite the first side.

[0043] Thus, the detector frame 220 extends at least along the first side and the second side of the detection area 211, such that the transmitter module 210a and the receiver module 210b are supported in an opposing configuration where the transmission beam passes through the detection area 211. In the illustrated embodiment, this is achieved by the detector frame 220 surrounding the detection area 211 on all sides, which advantageously provides structural rigidity and prevents tampering. However, in other embodiments, it may be envisaged that the detector frame 220 extends only partially around the detection area 211. In the illustrated embodiment, the detector frame 220 is square, but in other embodiments, the detector frame 220 may have a different shape, for example a non-square polygon, a circle or the like.The detector frame 220 may itself define the boundary of the detection zone 211, or define a perimeter larger than the detection zone 211.

[0044] The detector frame 220 comprises at least one inner surface portion 221 facing inwards towards the detection zone 211 and at least one outer surface portion 222 facing outwards in the direction opposite to the detection zone 211. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner surface portion 221 and the outer surface portion 222 are different faces of the frame, but it can be envisaged that, in another embodiment, the frame 220 comprises one or several curved faces which extend around the frame and have both an inner portion 221 and an outer portion 222.

[0045] The transmitter module 210a and the receiver module 210b are each disposed on an inner surface portion 221 of the detector frame 220 such that the transmitter module 210a and the receiver module 210b face the detection area 211. In the illustrated embodiment, the transmitter module 210a is disposed on a first inner surface portion of the detector frame and the receiver module 210b is disposed on a second inner surface portion of the detector frame opposite the first inner surface portion.

[0046] Although not shown, the outer surface portion 222 of the sensor frame 220 may be used to mount other features of the dispensing system 1000. For example, the apparatus 200 may include an electronic shelf label, ESL, mounted on the outer surface portion 222 of the sensor frame. This thus provides a location for mounting an ESL for the product separately from the hopper. Further, the ESL may be connected for power and data connections in a hardwired configuration via the apparatus 200. Further, the apparatus 200 may be connected to a steering apparatus 228 for directing the flow of a product into a receptacle (not shown). The steering apparatus 228 may be a funnel that is mounted on, or otherwise connected to, the sensor frame 220 and positioned below the sensor arrangement 210.The directing apparatus 228 may be removably attached to the detector frame 220 or may be integrated with the detector frame 220. The directing apparatus 228 may be shaped to direct the flow of product into the receptacle (not shown). The directing apparatus 228 may have a larger opening on a first side, which is mounted uppermost parallel to the detection area 211 of the detector frame 220 and may taper to a smaller opening on a second side, which is mounted lowermost parallel to the detection area 211 of the detector frame. The directing apparatus 228 may have a square, round, conical, frustoconical, or otherwise tapered shape. The directing device 228 may be shaped to contain or mount a receptacle (not shown) for the flow of product into the receptacle. The directing apparatus 228 may .

[0047] In the illustrated embodiment, the apparatus 200 includes an attachment 230 extending from the detector frame 220. In one embodiment, the attachment 230 includes an arm or other support structure that is configured to be mounted to a surface, such as a wall, within the retail environment. In another embodiment, the arm or other support structure is configured to be mounted to a movable mechanism 250, such as a cantilever, that is mounted to a surface such as a wall. For example, the movable mechanism 250 may be configured to allow movement of the fastener 230 relative to the surface, about a pivot point. The configuration of the movable mechanism 250 may allow the fastener 230 to be moved forward (away) from the surface. Furthermore, the configuration of the movable mechanism 250 may allow the fastener 230 to be moved downward from a first (higher) position to a secondary (lower) position offset from the surface by a distance in the horizontal axis, i.e., forward of the surface. The apparatus 200 may therefore be maintained at the first height during normal operation and moved to the second height to facilitate access and removal or replacement of the hopper 110a, 110b for cleaning. In this manner, the apparatus 200 may be separately mounted on the hopper 110a, 110b. The apparatus 200 can therefore remain mounted even when the hopper 110a, 110b is removed or replaced for cleaning.Further, the apparatus 200 may be used with multiple types of hoppers 110a, 110b and may incorporate wiring to provide power and data connections to the sensor arrangement 210. In other embodiments, however, the apparatus may be mounted directly to the hopper 110a, 110b and not include a fastener 230.

[0048] In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment 230 includes a mounting mechanism 232 for mounting the apparatus 200 to a surface, such as a wall or other structure in the retail environment, or a movable mechanism 250. The mounting mechanism 232 may, for example, include a bracket or other structure that can be readily affixed to a surface or movable mechanism using fastening means, such as screws, bolts, or the like. The movable mechanism 250 may include an additional mounting mechanism 252, which may function similarly to the mounting mechanism 232, for mounting the apparatus 200 to a surface and includes a pivot point. Furthermore, the movable mechanism 250 may include a lowering arm 254. The movable arm 254 may be lowered about the pivot point of the additional mounting mechanism 252.The movable arm 254 can generally maintain the original or "straight" orientation of the attachment 230, and the apparatus 200, when lowered from a high position to a low position.

[0049] The attachment 230 includes an arm extending from the mounting mechanism 232 to the detector frame 220. In the illustrated embodiment, the arm includes a first arm portion 236 attached to the detector frame 220 and a second arm portion 234 connecting the first arm portion 236 to the mounting mechanism 232. The first arm portion 236 and the second arm portion 234 are formed from different materials having different elasticities. In particular, the first arm portion 236 is formed from a deformable or flexible material such as a plastic molding. In this manner, the first arm portion may be at least partially flexed or deformed under the effect of a force to allow the detector frame 220 to move relative to the mounting mechanism 232, and return to its original position when the force is removed. This elasticity or flexibility can be further achieved by shaping the first arm portion 236, creating zigzags or an accordion-like surface to facilitate the flexing of the first arm portion 236. By providing some elasticity in the arm, the first arm portion 236 advantageously helps to prevent damage to the detector frame 220 and the sensor arrangement 210, for example during installation or removal of the hopper near the apparatus 200, or during accidental or intentional abuse by customers. The second arm portion 234 is formed from a rigid material having low elasticity, such as a metallic material.In this manner, the second arm portion 234 provides structural support and shape for the apparatus 200.

[0050] In some embodiments, the attachment 230 may include an attachment mechanism 238 for releasably attaching a bulk product hopper, such as hopper 110a or 110b, to the apparatus 200. The attachment mechanism 238 includes grooves or recesses into which a protrusion of the hopper 110a, 110b may be seated to secure the hopper 110a, 110b in a fixed spatial relationship relative to the apparatus 200. The fixed spatial relationship is such that when the bulk product hopper is attached to the releasable attachment mechanism 238, a dispensing path from a spout 114a, 114b of the bulk product hopper intersects the detection zone 211 of the sensor arrangement 210. However, in alternative embodiments, the mechanism attachment 238 can be removed, and the hopper 110a, 110b can be mounted separately on the apparatus 200.

[0051] Referring to [Fig. 3A], an example of a sensor arrangement 300 according to one embodiment of the invention is shown. The sensor arrangement 300 may be implemented as a sensor arrangement 210 of the apparatus 200.

[0052] The sensor arrangement 300 comprises a plurality of transmitter modules 311, 312, 313, 314 and a plurality of corresponding receiver modules 321, 322, 323, 324 arranged to detect transmission beams emitted by the transmitter modules 311, 312, 313, 314. Each transmitter module may be analogous to the transmitter module 210a described with reference to [Fig. 2], just as each of the receiver modules may be analogous to the receiver module 210b described previously. In the illustrated embodiment, there is a one-to-one relationship between the transmitter and receiver modules, each transmitter module being thus paired with a corresponding receiver module according to the following relationship: [Tables 1] Pair Transmitter module Receiver module PI 311 321 P2 312 322 P3 313 323 P4 314 324

[0053] Although the sensor arrangement 300 comprises four pairs of transmitter and receiver modules, in other embodiments, the sensor arrangement 300 may comprise more or fewer pairs, depending on the area of ​​the desired detection zone 211. The transmitter modules and the receiver modules are arranged on two opposite sides of the detection zone. For each transmitter module 311, 313 arranged along a first side 211-A of the detection zone, the corresponding receiver module 321, 323 is arranged along a second side 211-B of the detection zone opposite the respective transmitter module 311, 313. Similarly, for each transmitter module 312, 314 arranged along the second side 211-B of the detection zone, the corresponding receiver module 322, 324 is arranged along the first side 211-A of the detection zone opposite the respective emitted module.

[0054] Along each side 211-A, 211-B of the detection zone, the transmitter modules and the receiver modules are spaced alternately. This advantageously provides even coverage of the detection zone. As illustrated, the area through which the product flow is detectable for each pair of modules is triangular in shape, widening from the transmitter module toward the receiver module. Thus, the alternating arrangement allows these areas to nest without leaving triangular gaps through which the product flow may not be detected.

[0055] In some embodiments, the pairs P1-P4 as identified in the table above may be grouped into base / slave pairs. That is, the first pair P1 may act as the base pair, and the second pair P2 may act as the slave pair. Correspondingly, the pairs P3 and P4 may be grouped with P3 acting as the base pair, and P4 acting as the slave pair. The transmitter modules 311, 313 of each base pair are disposed along the first side 211-A, and the transmitter modules 312, 314 of each slave pair are disposed along the second side 211-B.

[0056] Referring to [Fig. 3B], an example of a timing diagram of the pulses emitted by the transmitter modules 311, 312, 313, 314 of the sensor arrangement 300 is shown. The base transmitter modules 311, 313 are each directly controlled to emit a pulse. When the pulse is detected by the base receiver modules 321, 323, the base receiver modules 321, 323 then serve to trigger the slave transmitter modules 312, 314 to return a pulse to the slave receiver modules 322, 324. The two base / slave pairs can be controlled independently, however in the illustrated timing diagram, the second base / slave pair is controlled to produce pulses later to the first base / slave pair. This arrangement generally allows the complexity of the control electronics of the sensor arrangement 310 to be advantageously reduced, since no wired interconnection between the two sides 211-A, 211-B is necessary. The removal of such an interconnection allows the stability of the sensor arrangement 300 to be improved.

[0057] Referring to [Fig. 4], an exemplary bulk product dispensing system 400 is shown according to one embodiment. The bulk product dispensing system 400 includes an apparatus 410 similar to the apparatus 200 shown in [Fig. 2], and a bulk product hopper 420 removably attached to the apparatus 410 via the attachment mechanism 238. In the illustrated embodiment, the apparatus 410 further includes an electronic shelf label, ESL, 412, mounted on the sensor frame. As can be seen, when the bulk product hopper 420 is attached to the apparatus 410, a dispensing path P from a spout 422 of the bulk product hopper intersects the detection zone of the apparatus 410. Thus, the apparatus 410 is shaped to match the bulk product hopper 420 and position the hopper 420 appropriately.However, in other embodiments, the hopper may be mounted separately, allowing the apparatus 410 to be used with a range of different hopper types.

[0058] Turning to [Fig. 5], there is shown a schematic illustration of a control system 5000 according to one embodiment. The control system 5000 may correspond to the control system 120 shown in [Fig. 1], and may thus be part of the wholesale distribution system 1000.

[0059] The ordering system 5000 includes at least one ordering module, or control device 500. In the illustrated embodiment, the ordering system includes a single control device 500, but in other embodiments, the ordering system may include a plurality of control devices 500 that may be distributed around the wholesale distribution system 1000. Each control device 500 of the ordering system may be communicatively coupled. The connection may be via a wired connection or wirelessly via one or more networks 110, such as an in-store local area network (LAN) or the Internet. Thus, while the function of the ordering system will be described with reference to a single control device 500, this functionality may be distributed among a plurality of control devices 500 coupled in any suitable manner.

[0060] The control device 500 comprises at least one processor 520, a communication module 510 and a memory 530. The processor 520 is arranged to carry out a method according to instructions 532 stored in the memory 530. The memory 530 may include one or more memory devices, which may be disposed locally with respect to the controller 500, remotely with respect to the controller 500, or in a combination. In the case of a remotely located memory device, the memory device may communicate wirelessly with the processor 520 of the controller 510. The communication module 510 is configured to communicate with the sensor arrangement 210, 300 of each apparatus 112a, 112b, and with the weighing apparatus 130. The communication module 510 may include electrical connections for connecting to the sensor arrangement(s) and the weighing apparatus via a wired connection, and / or may include hardware for performing wireless communication, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or the like.

[0061] The communication module 510 is arranged to receive a detection signal 511 from the or each sensor arrangement 210, 300. The detection signal 511 is indicative of the transmission beam detected or received at each receiver module 210b. The controller 500 is then configured to determine whether a dispensing event has occurred for the bulk product hopper 110a, 110b based on the detection signal 511 received from the sensor arrangement at the corresponding apparatus 112a, 112b. The controller 500 is configured to determine whether a dispensing event has occurred based on the transmission beam break detected by the receiver module 210b. In some embodiments, the controller 500 is configured to determine whether a predetermined period of time has elapsed between the break detected at the receiver module 210b and any previous detected break.If less than the predetermined period of time has elapsed, the controller 500 may determine that the detected break corresponds to an existing dispensing event, and not a new dispensing event. The predetermined period of time may be between 1 and 5 seconds, for example 3 seconds.

[0062] If the controller 500 determines that a new dispensing event has occurred for a bulk product hopper 110a, 110b, the communication module 510 is arranged to output a control signal 512 to the weighing apparatus 130 to indicate that the new dispensing event has occurred. For example, the control signal 512 may be output to a control module of the weighing apparatus 130.

[0063] The weighing device control module 130 is then configured to identify a product associated with the bulk product hopper, and display an indication of the product dispensing event on the display device 132. Thus, when a customer approaches the weighing device 130 after dispensing a product at the hopper 110a, the display device 132 can pre-display the relevant product for selection by the customer.

[0064] Referring to [Fig. 6], a flowchart of a method 600 according to one embodiment is shown. The method 600 can be carried out by the system 1000.

[0065] The method comprises a block 602 for generating, at the transmitter module 210a of the apparatus 112a, a transmission beam. In block 604, the receiver module 210b of the apparatus 112a detects a change, such as a break, in the transmission beam. In block 606, the receiver module 210b communicates to the control device 500 a detection signal 511 indicative of the break in the transmission beam. In block 608, the control device determines that a distribution event has occurred based on the received detection signal 511.

[0066] It will be appreciated that embodiments of the present invention may be embodied in the form of hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. Any such software may be stored in the form of volatile or non-volatile storage such as, for example, a storage device such as read-only memory, whether erasable or rewritable or not, or in the form of memory such as, for example, random access memory, memory chips, devices or integrated circuits, or on an optically or magnetically readable medium such as, for example, a CD, a DVD, a magnetic disk, or a magnetic tape. It will be appreciated that the storage devices and storage media are embodiments of machine-readable storage that are suitable for storing a program or programs that, when executed, implement embodiments of the present invention.Accordingly, embodiments provide a program comprising code for implementing a system or method according to any preceding claim and a machine-readable storage storing such a program. Further, embodiments of the present invention may be transmitted electronically via any medium such as a communication signal carried over a wired or wireless connection and embodiments suitably encompass the same.

[0067] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words "include" and "contain," and variations thereof, are interpreted to mean "comprising, but not limited to," and are not intended to exclude (and do not exclude) other fractions, additives, components, integers, or steps. Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the singular includes the plural unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, when the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating a plurality, as well as singularity, unless the context otherwise requires.

[0068] Any features, integers, characteristics, compounds, moieties or chemical groups described in conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment or example of the invention are to be understood as applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described herein unless inconsistent therewith. All of the features disclosed herein (including any of the claims, the abstract and the appended drawings), and / or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except for combinations where at least some of these features and / or steps are mutually exclusive. The invention is not limited to the details of any of the foregoing embodiments.The invention extends to any novel feature, or novel combination, of the features disclosed herein (including any of the claims, the abstract and the appended drawings), or to any novel step, or novel combination, of the steps of any method or process as disclosed.

[0069] The reader's attention is drawn to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or prior to this specification in connection with this application and which are subject to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

Claims

1. Apparatus for detecting a dispensing event in a wholesale product dispensing system, the apparatus comprising: a sensor arrangement for detecting product flow through a detection zone, the sensor arrangement comprising a transmitter module and a receiver module, wherein, in use, product flow through the detection zone causes a change in a transmission beam between the transmitter module and the receiver module; and at least one retainer for retaining the sensor arrangement around the detection zone.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising an attachment mechanism for releasably attaching a bulk product hopper to the apparatus, such that when the bulk product hopper is attached to the apparatus, a dispensing path from a spout of the bulk product hopper intersects the detection zone of the sensor arrangement.

3. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the transmitter module is disposed on a first side of the detection zone and the receiver module is disposed on a second side of the detection zone opposite the transmitter module.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the at least one retaining device comprises a detector frame surrounding the detection area and wherein: the transmitter module is disposed on a first inner surface of the detector frame facing the detection area, and the receiver module is disposed on a second inner surface of the detector frame opposite the first inner surface and facing the detection area.

5. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, further comprising an electronic shelf label, ESL, mounted on an external surface of the at least one retaining device.

6. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, further comprising an attachment extending from the at least one retaining member, the attachment device being configured to mount the apparatus to a surface.

7. Apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising at least one power supply line mounted on the attachment for supplying electrical power to the sensor arrangement from an external power supply.

8. The apparatus of claim 6 or 7, wherein the attachment comprises a mounting mechanism for mounting the apparatus to a surface, a first flexible arm portion attached to the at least one retainer, and a second rigid arm portion connecting the first flexible arm portion to the mounting mechanism.

9. Apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the first flexible arm portion is formed from a plastic molding and the second rigid arm portion is metallic.

10. Apparatus according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the first flexible arm portion comprises an accordion-like surface.

11. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a plurality of transmitter modules and a plurality of corresponding receiver modules.

12. Apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the sensor arrangement comprises: a plurality of transmitter and receiver modules alternately spaced along a first side of the detection zone; and a corresponding plurality of transmitter and receiver modules alternately spaced along a second side of the detection zone, such that each transmitter module is opposite a receiver module and vice versa; wherein, in use, the flow of product through the detection zone causes a transmission beam to change between at least one of the transmitter modules and its opposite receiver module.

13. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the or each transmitter module comprises an infrared, IR, transmitter module configured to generate an IR pulse and the or each receiver module comprises an infrared, IR, receiver module configured to detect the IR pulse generated by the corresponding IR transmitter module.

14. Apparatus according to claim 13, wherein each transmitter module is arranged to generate an emission beam of IR pulses at 300-400 Hz.

15. A bulk product dispensing system comprising: the apparatus of any preceding claim; and a bulk product hopper removably attached to the apparatus such that a dispensing path from a spout of the bulk product hopper intersects the detection zone of the sensor arrangement.

16. The bulk product dispensing system of claim 15, further comprising a control module communicatively coupled to the sensor arrangement, wherein the control module is arranged to: receive a detection signal from the sensor arrangement indicating that the transmission beam between the transmitter module and the receiver module has been changed; and determine that a dispensing event has occurred for the bulk product hopper based on receipt of the detection signal.

17. The bulk product dispensing system of claim 16, further comprising a weighing apparatus, wherein the control module is configured to output a control signal to a weighing apparatus based on determining that a dispensing event has occurred for the bulk product hopper, and wherein the weighing apparatus is configured to display an indication of the dispensing event for the bulk product hopper on a display of the weighing apparatus.

18. A bulk product dispensing system according to claim 16 or 17, comprising a further apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14 and a further bulk product hopper removably attached to the further apparatus, wherein the control module is communicatively coupled to the sensor arrangement of each of the apparatus and the further apparatus.

19. A method for detecting a distribution event using the wholesale product distribution system of any one of claims 15 to 18, comprising: the generation, at the transmitter module level, of the transmission beam; the detection, at the receiver module level, of a modification in the transmission beam; based on detecting the change in the transmission beam, transmitting a detection signal to the control module; and determining that a dispensing event has occurred for the bulk product hopper based on receipt of the detection signal.

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