Settlement method of unmanned sales system

Abstract

To provide a novel unmanned sales system for reducing burdens of introduction in introduction destinations such as stores where neither vending machines nor ticket vending machines are installed or stores where either one is installed.SOLUTION: A settlement method of an unmanned sales system with printing means allowing a user to replenish paper without opening an outer door provided in a housing, employs any one type or more of settlement means of: settlement processing means using coins inserted into the unmanned sales system; settlement processing means using money bill inserted into the unmanned sales system; settlement processing means using electronic money cards; settlement processing means using smartphone applications; settlement processing means using a communication function with smartphones; settlement processing means by debit cards; settlement processing means using image codes; settlement means having electronic functions; settlement means using settlement permission cards; and settlement means using settlement permission coins.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an unmanned sales system that sells items or vouchers such as tickets in response to payment for the items. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, as shown in Patent Document 1, for example, vending machines that sell beverages and other items have been installed in various locations, both indoors and outdoors, and can provide items unmanned 24 hours a day, fulfilling the role of social infrastructure.

[0003] Meanwhile, as shown in Patent Document 2, for example, ticket vending machines that sell meal tickets at restaurants and the like are also known, and store operations in which a customer purchases a meal ticket at the store entrance and exchanges it for a meal are well known. Also, in facilities such as public baths, operations in which an admission ticket is purchased from a ticket vending machine and then handed to a staff member at the entrance to enter are also well known.

[0004] Patent document 1 discloses providing a vending machine with an operation panel, display, and printer, and printing out the necessary information for reservation and payment proof of tickets, tickets, etc. displayed on the display. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP2001-307220A [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-232955 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] There are only a few manufacturers of vending machines and ticket vending machines, and they are manufactured by a few companies, so the equipment configuration is standardized and uniform. Also, while vending machines require regular replenishment of products by transporting them along a route, there is no such thing for ticket vending machines, and so there are currently significant differences in operation.

[0007] Therefore, it can be said that the configuration of a combination of a vending machine and a ticket vending machine as disclosed in Patent Document 1 has not actually been implemented. If it were to be deployed nationwide, it would require new development by a major vending machine manufacturer, which is not realistic. In addition, there would be incidental costs such as replacing and discarding existing vending machines, and further, considering the enormous number of existing vending machines, it can be said that it is practically difficult to provide the configuration disclosed in Patent Document 1 to the market.

[0008] On the other hand, there are many stores that do not install ticket vending machines and have staff handle the transactions, but the main reason for not installing ticket vending machines is the high installation costs, which can cost hundreds of thousands to millions of yen.In particular, for small stores and facilities, the installation costs are high compared to sales, and they hesitate to install them even though they would like to.

[0009] As a result, there are many cases where the introduction of ticket vending machines has not progressed. For example, in restaurants such as ramen shops run by a single owner, the operation is a one-man operation, which not only places a heavy burden on accounting, but also makes customers feel uncomfortable around the owner, and from the owner's point of view, makes the customers feel uncomfortable.

[0010] In addition, in the current situation after the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a tendency to avoid handing over cash, especially in restaurants. In response to this, it is possible to consider introducing cashless payment devices, but this would still incur installation and running costs, and there are even concerns that this could increase the amount of work required by the restaurant owner, such as the hassle of inputting the price.

[0011] Even small facilities such as public baths need to assign staff to handle accounting tasks, but given the increasingly serious labor shortage in recent years, they are often forced to abandon the introduction of ticket vending machines due to the costs and other issues mentioned above.

[0012] In addition, new banknotes are scheduled to be issued in 2024, and confusion is expected as new and old banknotes will be mixed together, raising concerns that this will increase the burden on small stores and other businesses such as those mentioned above.

[0013] Also, in stores that do not have ticket vending machines, there are cases where they would like to install a vending machine at the same time. If both were to be installed, space would be required for both the ticket vending machine and the vending machine, and there are cases where a choice must be made. Installing a vending machine can reduce the effort of providing beverages and other items, and can greatly reduce the burden on the store owner, but space restrictions can sometimes force the store owner to abandon the idea of ​​installing one.

[0014] In addition, in stores where ticket vending machines are already installed, there are cases where the space to install a new vending machine is not available, and conversely, in stores where vending machines are already installed, there are cases where the space to install a ticket vending machine is not available.

[0015] Furthermore, in both vending machines and ticket machines, when the new banknotes are issued, the banknote identification unit, known as a bill validator, will need to be replaced. This replacement will incur additional costs, making it even more difficult for small stores such as those mentioned above to implement the system.

[0016] In addition, if a ticket vending machine is installed, paper needs to be refilled, but the timing of when the paper runs out is unpredictable, and the store needs to deal with it. For this reason, it is necessary to make the paper refilling easy, and in particular in a one-operation situation where the store owner must replace the paper himself, every second counts.

[0017] In view of the above problems, one of the objectives of the present invention is to propose a new unmanned sales system that requires little installation effort in stores that do not have vending machines or ticket vending machines, or in stores that have either one of them.

[0018] Another object of the present invention is to propose a new unmanned vending system that, in cases where a vending machine has already been installed, makes it possible to introduce the functions of a ticket vending machine while maintaining the functions of the existing vending machine, and that reduces the burden of its introduction.

[0019] Another object of the present invention is to propose a novel unmanned sales system that imposes little operational burden on the user when the functions of a ticket vending machine are introduced.

[0020] Another object of the present invention is to propose a new unmanned sales system that allows the owner of the store where the system is installed to replace or replenish paper for printing after the system is introduced.

[0021] Another object of the present invention is to propose a novel unmanned vending system that can improve customer convenience in a payment method for the unmanned vending system. [Means for solving the problem]

[0022] The problem to be solved by the present invention has been described above, and the means for solving this problem will now be described.

[0023] In one aspect of the invention, A payment method for an unmanned sales system equipped with a printing means capable of refilling paper without opening an outer door provided on a housing, comprising: As a means of payment, The payment method for an unmanned vending system uses one or more of the following payment means: a means for processing payments using coins inserted into the unmanned vending system, a means for processing payments using bills inserted into the unmanned vending system, a means for processing payments using electronic money cards, a means for processing payments using credit cards, a means for processing payments using smartphone app payments, a means for payment using a communication function with a smartphone, a means for processing payments using debit cards, a means for processing payments using image codes, a settlement means with electronic functions, a payment means using a payment permission card, and a payment means using a payment permission coin.

[0024] In addition, in one embodiment of the present invention, A payment method for an unmanned sales system equipped with a printing means capable of refilling paper without opening an outer door provided on a housing, comprising: As a means of payment, A payment method for an unmanned sales system equipped with a printing means capable of refilling paper without opening an outer door provided on a housing, using one or more of the following payment means: a means for processing a payment using coins inserted into the unmanned sales system, a means for processing a payment using paper notes inserted into the unmanned sales system, a means for processing a payment using an electronic money card, a means for processing a payment using a credit card, a means for processing a payment using an application payment on a smartphone, a payment means using a communication function with a smartphone, a means for processing a payment using a debit card, a means for processing a payment using an image code, a settlement means having an electronic function, a payment means using a payment permission card, and a payment means using a payment permission coin, The unmanned sales system includes: A presentation means for presenting a plurality of options from which a user can select; at least one selection means for selecting one of a plurality of selection candidates; a payment means for paying for the selection candidate selected by the selection means; dispensing means for storing an item and dispensing the item when the item is selected; a printing means for printing the printed matter when the selection candidate is a printed matter; An information acquisition means having a function of acquiring information including at least print information to be printed on paper; A control means connected to the selection means, the settlement means, the dispensing means, and the information acquisition means, The presenting means, the selecting means, the settlement means, the dispensing means, the printing means, the information acquiring means, and the control means are provided in one housing, The printing means is provided on an exterior surface of the housing, The paper for the printing means can be replenished with the outer door closed. The settlement method for an unmanned sales system is characterized in that

[0025] In one embodiment of the present invention, a print instruction to the printing means can be transmitted from the control means wirelessly and / or via wire.

[0026] In one embodiment of the present invention, power is supplied to the printing means from an unmanned vending system.

[0027] In one embodiment of the present invention, the printing means has a function of the information acquiring means.

[0028] In one embodiment of the present invention, the information acquiring unit can acquire at least the print information via communication and / or a recording medium.

[0029] In one embodiment of the present invention, the information acquisition means is capable of acquiring at least the payment information and / or the associated information via communication or a recording medium, The payment information is the price for each selection option, The association information is information for associating each selection means with each selection candidate.

[0030] In one embodiment of the present invention, the information acquisition means is capable of acquiring at least the payment information and / or the associated information via communication or a recording medium, The payment information is the price for each selection option, The association information is information for associating each selection means with each selection candidate.

[0031] In one embodiment of the present invention, the printing unit is installed on a vertical wall surface of the housing or a vertical wall surface of the outer door, The printer includes a printing unit and a paper supply unit for storing and supplying paper. The printing means has a function of enabling paper to be replenished at the paper supply unit when paper is replenished.

[0032] In one embodiment of the present invention, the printing unit is installed on a vertical wall surface of the housing or a vertical wall surface of the outer door, The printer includes a printing unit and a paper supply unit for storing and supplying paper. The printing means has a cover that opens and closes to open the paper supply section and enable paper to be replenished when paper is to be replenished.

[0033] In one embodiment of the present invention, the printing unit is installed on a vertical wall surface of the housing or a vertical wall surface of the outer door, The printer includes a printing unit and a paper supply unit for storing and supplying paper. The printing means has a cover that opens and closes to open the paper supply section and enable paper to be replenished when paper is replenished, and the cover is opened from below to above when paper is replenished.

[0034] In one embodiment of the present invention, the printing unit is installed on a vertical wall surface of the housing or a vertical wall surface of the outer door, The printer includes a printing unit and a paper supply unit for storing and supplying paper. The printing means has a cover that opens and closes to open the paper supply section and enable paper to be replenished when paper is replenished, and the cover is opened from above and then from below when paper is replenished.

[0035] In one embodiment of the present invention, the printing unit is installed on a vertical wall surface of the housing or a vertical wall surface of the outer door, The printer includes a printing unit and a paper supply unit for storing and supplying paper. The printing means has a cover that opens and closes to open the paper supply section and enable paper to be replenished when paper is replenished, and the cover is opened horizontally when paper is replenished.

[0036] In one embodiment of the present invention, the printing unit is installed on a vertical wall surface of the housing or a vertical wall surface of the outer door, The printer includes a printing unit and a paper supply unit for storing and supplying paper. The printing means has a cover that opens and closes to open the paper supply section and enable paper to be replenished when paper is replenished, and the cover is opened by a sliding mechanism when paper is replenished.

[0037] In one embodiment of the present invention, the printing means has a thickness equal to or smaller than a predetermined thickness.

[0038] In one embodiment of the present invention, the paper supplied to the printing means is in a roll shape.

[0039] In one embodiment of the present invention, the unmanned vending system is installed indoors.

[0040] In one embodiment of the present invention, the printing unit has a locking function that restricts opening and closing of a cover of the printing unit, and / or a waterproofing function that prevents water from entering the cover.

[0041] In one embodiment of the present invention, the printing unit has a function for preventing the paper from falling when the paper is replenished.

[0042] In one embodiment of the present invention, the printing unit is provided inside an exterior cover that is installed on a vertical wall surface of the housing or on a vertical wall surface of the outer door.

[0043] In one embodiment of the present invention, the printed matter printed by the printing means is a voucher that is the result of completing a payment by the payment means.

[0044] In one embodiment of the present invention, the printed matter printed by the printing means is a voucher that is the result of completing a payment by the payment means, and is a voucher for the provision of services and / or exchange for goods. Effect of the Invention

[0045] According to one aspect of the present invention, a new unmanned sales system can be proposed that requires little installation effort in stores or other locations where vending machines or ticket vending machines are not installed. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0046] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a vending machine constituting an unmanned vending system. [Diagram 2] FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining various means constituting the unmanned sales system. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a printed matter. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an information table. [Figure 6] A diagram explaining how to link buttons and columns. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an overview of a printing unit. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of a printing unit. [Figure 9] FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing another embodiment of a printing unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0047] The unmanned vending system according to the present invention can be implemented, for example, in the form of a vending machine 1 shown in Fig. 1. The vending machine 1 is configured so that, when a customer selects a selection candidate displayed on the presentation means 61, a product corresponding to the selection candidate is provided from the take-out port 7, and a printed matter such as a ticket corresponding to the selection candidate is printed by the printing means 30.

[0048] The vending machine 1 has a control means 100 that controls the temperature of the products and the operation of various drive units, and is configured to automatically sell products and provide printed materials unmanned when a customer pays for them and selects from a selection list.

[0049] The vending machine 1 is configured to have a housing 6 and an outer door 2 that is provided so as to be able to open and close the housing 6. The side of the outer door 2 where the dispensing opening 7 is provided and which constitutes the exterior surface of the vending machine 1 is the outer side (front side), and the side facing the opening of the housing 6 is the inner side (rear side).

[0050] On the outer surface of the outer door 2, a presentation means 61 appears for presenting options that a customer can select from, and as options, dummy items 71 of products stored in the warehouse and display cards 72 showing the contents of admission tickets, goods, etc. are presented.

[0051] On the outer surface of the outer door 2, there are selection means 62 that allow the customer to select from the selection candidates, and above each selection means 62, there are disposed dummy items 71 of the products in the warehouse and display plates 72 showing the contents of the printed matter. The selection means 62 is, for example, constituted by a button that the customer presses. The presentation means 61 may be constituted by a touch screen display, and the selection candidates and buttons may be displayed as images.

[0052] On the outer surface of the outer door 2, a card reader 63a, a bill insertion slot 63b, and a coin insertion slot 63c are arranged as payment means 63 for making payment. A display 63d for displaying the price of the selected option and the inserted amount is arranged near the coin insertion slot 63c. A return slot 63e for returning coins is arranged below the coin insertion slot 63c.

[0053] A handle 74 is provided on the outer surface of the outer door 2 for opening and closing the outer door 2. A locking mechanism is provided on the handle 74, and the outer door 2 can be opened by unlocking the handle 74 with a key (not shown).

[0054] On the outer surface of the outer door 2, there is provided a printing means 30 for printing the content corresponding to the display tag 72 on paper and outputting it as a certificate when the selection means 62 corresponding to the display tag 72 is selected. The printing means 30 is configured with a printer that allows paper to be refilled and replaced, and the printing method is not particularly limited, and may include printing on thermal paper or printing on paper with ink.

[0055] The position of the printing means 30 is provided, for example, above the coin insertion portion 63c. Also, in the case where the card reader 63a is not provided, the printing means 30 may be provided at the position of the card reader 63a. Also, for example, the printing means 30 may be provided at a position physically separated from the vending machine 1.

[0056] In addition to printing on paper using printing means 30 and providing it as a printed matter, it is also possible to display content equivalent to the printed content on an information terminal such as a customer's smartphone, and use the display as a certificate.

[0057] 2, the outer door 2 is configured to include a main door 2A that constitutes the main body of the entire door, a display door 2B provided on the upper part of the main door 2A, an upper inner door 2C that is disposed inside the display door 2B, and a lower inner door 2D that is provided below the upper inner door 2C and rotatable with respect to the main door 2A. By opening the upper inner door 2C, it is possible to install or replace product dummies 71 and display tags 72 shown in FIG. 1.

[0058] As shown in Fig. 2, a safe cover 41 is rotatably provided below the display door 2B. A bill validator 42 is disposed in the space on the side closed by the safe cover 41. A coin mechanism 43 is disposed near the bill validator 42, and a cash box 44 is disposed below the coin mechanism 43. In addition, a remote control 45 and a control box 46 are provided below the display door 2B. A control board and the like for constituting the control means 100 (Fig. 1) are provided within the control box 46.

[0059] When new banknotes are introduced due to government policies or the like, the Vivaridata 42 can be replaced with one that is compatible with the new banknotes, making it possible to collect payment using the new banknotes.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 2, an air vent 9 is provided at the bottom of the main door 2A along the width direction of the main door 2A, so that outside air can be taken in through the air vent 9 into the space that houses the heat exchanger 55 (condenser) etc.

[0061] As shown in Fig. 2, the housing 6 contains a plurality of column devices 52 functioning as dispensing means. Products such as plastic bottles filled with beverages are inserted through a product insertion port 52F of each column device 52. In the example of Fig. 2, six columns are provided for one column device 52, and six product insertion ports 52F are provided leading to each column.

[0062] In the example of Fig. 2, each column device 52 is configured with six columns, and a total of 36 columns are provided in the entire vending machine, and the 36 columns are numbered from the first column to the 36th column. Each column can be associated with each selection means 62 (Fig. 1) on the outer door 2, and for example, a product is sent out from the fourth column in response to the operation of the fourth selection means 62 (button) on the upper left side. A product chute 54 is provided in the space below the column device 52, and products delivered from each column drop down the product chute 54 and are inserted into the outlet 7 formed in the outer door 2.

[0063] FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of the unmanned sales system according to the present invention. The example of FIG. 3 corresponds to the configuration example of the vending machine shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. A presentation means for presenting a plurality of options from which the customer can select; at least one selection means for selecting one of a plurality of selection candidates; a payment means for paying for the selection candidate selected by the selection means; dispensing means for storing an item and dispensing the item when the item is selected; a printing means for printing the printed matter when the selection candidate is a printed matter; An information acquisition means having a function of acquiring information including at least print information to be printed on paper; A control means connected to the selection means, the settlement means, the dispensing means, and the information acquisition means, The presenting means, the selecting means, the settlement means, the dispensing means, the printing means, the information acquiring means, and the control means are provided in one housing, The printing means is provided on an exterior surface of the housing, The paper for the printing means can be replenished with the outer door closed. The present invention provides an unmanned sales system equipped with a printing means capable of replenishing paper without opening an outer door provided on a housing.

[0064] A specific example of the presentation means is one for presenting a plurality of selection candidates, as shown in Fig. 1. The selection candidates are products in the storehouse corresponding to product dummies 71, admission tickets corresponding to the contents displayed on display tags 72, and goods provided outside the storehouse. The presentation means 61 may be configured as a touch screen display, and may be configured to display images of the selection candidates and buttons serving as the selection means.

[0065] A specific example of the selection means can be a button (selection means 62) that is pressed with a finger, as shown in Fig. 1. The button is configured to display the price of the product or printed matter corresponding to the button, or "preparing" or "sold out." The "preparing" or "sold out" indications are displayed when, for example, the product in the column corresponding to the button is being heated or cooled to maintain the appropriate temperature, the product is out of stock due to being sold out, the column is clogged with products, or other conditions in which the product cannot be dispensed.

[0066] As a specific example of the payment means, as shown in Fig. 1, it may be configured to include one or more of the following: a card reader 63a, a bill insertion section 63b, and a coin insertion section 63c. In addition, it may be configured to include one or more of the following: a payment processing means using coins inserted into the unmanned vending system, a payment processing means using bills inserted into the unmanned vending system, a payment processing means using electronic money cards, a payment processing means using credit cards, a smartphone app payment processing means, a payment means using a communication function with a smartphone, a payment processing means using debit cards, a payment processing means using image codes, a settlement means having an electronic function, a payment means using a payment permission card, and a payment means using a payment permission coin. By providing multiple payment methods, it is possible to improve customer convenience and respond to the ever-evolving trend toward cashless payments.

[0067] The electronic money card may utilize the functions of, for example, Suica (registered trademark), PASMO (registered trademark), FeliCa (registered trademark), or the like. Examples of payment methods that utilize a communication function with a smartphone include those that utilize a communication function using FeliCa (registered trademark), such as Google Pay (registered trademark) and Apple Pay (registered trademark). An example of a means for processing app payments on a smartphone is to use electronic money associated with the app. Examples of means for processing payments using image codes include two-dimensional codes and QR codes (registered trademark). An example of a settlement means with an electronic function would be one in which a signal from an electronic transmission means or electronic communication means (e.g. a watch with a communication function) is received by a card reader on a vending machine, enabling payment. As a payment method using a payment permission card, for example, a method in which a payment is possible by inserting a special card that permits payment into a bill insertion slot may be considered. As a payment method using a payment-permitted coin, for example, a method in which a special coin that permits payment is inserted into a coin slot to enable payment is considered.

[0068] A specific example of the dispensing means is a device that stores items provided by the vending machine and dispenses the items when the items are selected, such as column device 52 shown in Fig. 2. Each column provided in column device 52 is associated with a button (selection means), and the product corresponding to the selected button is dispensed from the column corresponding to the button.

[0069] A specific example of the printing means may be a printer for printing a printed matter when the selection candidate is a printed matter, such as the printing means 30 shown in Fig. 1. A print instruction to the printing means is configured to be transmittable from the control means wirelessly and / or via a wire, and the printing means prints on paper based on the received print instruction to output the printed matter. Power is supplied to the printing means from the unmanned sales system, and may be supplied via a USB cable, for example. A print instruction to the printing means may be issued via this USB cable.

[0070] The information acquisition means is for acquiring at least one of printing information, payment information, and associated information, and is for making it possible to acquire various types of information via communication and / or a recording medium. The information acquisition means can be configured, for example, as a means that is pre-installed on a control board (such as a printed circuit board with an IC mounted thereon) that constitutes the control means 100 provided in the control box 46, or as a box-shaped unit that is additionally connected to the control means 100.

[0071] The information acquiring means is configured to include, for example, a communication means connected to the Internet, and is configured to be able to acquire various information such as the information table 56 by two-way communication with a remote management base 200 (FIG. 3) via the Internet. The information acquiring means may also be configured to upload various information such as sales volume and sales revenue to the management base 200. The information acquisition means is configured to include a reading means that serves as an interface for connecting a recording medium such as an SD card or USB, and is configured to be able to acquire various pieces of information recorded on these recording media, such as the information table 56. In a form in which the information table 56 is acquired using a recording medium, by eliminating the need to acquire information through communication, it is possible to realize an unmanned sales system with a simple configuration that is separated from a network such as the Internet, without having to be equipped with a communication function and therefore eliminating the need for communication costs. The information acquisition means is configured, for example, by remote control 45 (FIG. 2), which is a setting device provided in the vending machine, and is configured to be able to acquire various information listed in information table 56 (FIG. 5) by the remote control. The information acquisition means is configured to be connectable, via wired or wireless connection, to an information terminal such as a handheld terminal used by a worker who replenishes products or a smartphone used by the owner of the store where the vending machine is installed, and is configured to be able to acquire various information listed in information table 56 (Figure 5) via these information terminals.

[0072] The information acquisition means may be provided in, for example, the printing means. In this way, for example, the present invention can be achieved by retrofitting a printing means to an existing vending machine that does not have an information acquisition means or a printing means.

[0073] The control means may be configured as something physically separate from the other means, or it may be configured as a unit (e.g., a control board) having functions for constituting a payment means and functions for constituting an information acquisition means (functions of a communication means and a reading means).

[0074] The control means also has a function of controlling the temperature of the product and the operation of various drive units, and these functions may be considered as basic functions, and other means such as an information acquisition means may be added later to cooperate with the control means. For example, in an existing vending machine that does not have a communication means, a communication means constituted by a box-shaped unit for constituting the communication means may be installed later to achieve the configuration of the present invention.

[0075] The printing information is information that defines the content to be printed on paper, and is acquired by an information acquisition means via communication and / or a recording medium, and is, for example, information contained in the information table 56 shown in FIG.

[0076] For example, when the unmanned vending system is installed in a public bath, the printed content may include information on the services provided, such as "adult ticket," "child ticket," and "towel ticket," as shown in the examples of tickets 38a to 38c in FIG. 4, price information, such as "500 yen," "300 yen," and "200 yen," and an image code, such as a QR code (registered trademark).

[0077] The content to be printed is, for example, registered in information table 56, as shown in Fig. 5. In information table 56 of this example, the ID number of the selection means (in this example, the number of the button of selection means 62 shown in Fig. 1), the column number, the price information, and the provided service information are linked. For example, this information defines that when button 1 is selected, "Adult Use Ticket", "500 yen" is printed, when button 2 is selected, "Child Use Ticket", "300 yen" is printed, and when button 3 is selected, "Towel Use Ticket", "200 yen" is printed.

[0078] The payment information is information on the price of each selection candidate. In the example of information table 56 in Fig. 5, the payment information is information that links the ID number of the selection means with the price information, and defines that when button 1 is selected, the price is "500 yen," when button 2 is selected, the price is "300 yen," and when button 3 is selected, the price is "200 yen."

[0079] The association information is information that associates each selection means with each selection candidate. In the example of information table 56 in Fig. 5, the association information is information that links the ID number of the selection means with the column number, and defines that button No. 1 is the "37th column," button No. 2 is the "38th column," and button No. 3 is the "39th column." Furthermore, the association information defines that button No. 4 is the "1st column," and button No. 5 is the "2nd column."

[0080] Here, there are two types of column numbers: those that are numbered and defined for the multiple column devices 52 that actually exist as shown in Figure 2, and those that are numbered and defined for virtual columns that do not actually exist.

[0081] For example, as shown in the example of Figure 6, in a vending machine equipped with 36 buttons and a presentation means 61 that presents display tags or products corresponding to each button, there are 36 actual columns, which are numbered and defined as the 1st column to the 36th column. Meanwhile, "virtual columns," which do not actually exist but are a concept for virtually housing printed matter printed by a printing means, are defined as the 37th column to the 39th column. In the example, the "virtual columns" are numbered from the 37th to the 39th, but the number can be increased or decreased depending on the number of printed matter.

[0082] For example, in the presentation means 61 shown in Fig. 6, there are a total of 36 buttons that serve as the selection means 62. Each button can be set as a "physical column" or a "virtual column", and the buttons associated with the 1st to 36th columns are set as "physical columns", and the buttons associated with the 37th to 39th columns are set as "virtual columns".

[0083] In the example of Fig. 6, buttons 4 to 36 are linked to columns 1 to 36 (physical columns). Dummies of products to be dispensed from the warehouse are placed above buttons 4 to 36. When buttons 4 to 36 are selected and payment is made, a product is dispensed from each column.

[0084] In the example of FIG. 6, buttons 1 to 3 are linked to columns 37 to 39 (virtual columns). A display tag for "adult" is placed at button 1, a display tag for "child" is placed at button 2, and a display tag for "towel" is placed at button 3. Furthermore, according to the information table of FIG. 5, button 1 is associated with column 37 (virtual column), button 2 is associated with column 38 (virtual column), and button 3 is associated with column 39 (virtual column). When buttons 1 to 3 linked to the virtual columns are selected and payment is made, a printed matter is printed by a printing means according to the information table of FIG. 5.

[0085] For example, when button 1 is selected and payment is completed, the printing means prints "Adult Ticket" and "500 yen" according to the information table in FIG. 5. More specifically, for example, when button 1 corresponding to the "Adult" sign is selected by a customer who is an adult of junior high school age or older, the control means makes the payment means available for payment and waits. When the control means determines that the customer has paid the price using an electronic money card, it transmits a print instruction to the printing means together with the print information corresponding to button 1. The printing means prints the print information to issue ticket 38a shown in FIG. 4.

[0086] As another specific example, when the control means determines that a customer has inserted cash (500 yen) to pay, it makes button 1 corresponding to the "adult" sign selectable by a customer who is an adult and is a junior high school student or older, and waits. When the customer selects button 1 corresponding to the "adult" sign, it sends a print instruction to the printing means together with the print information corresponding to button 1. The printing means prints the print information to issue ticket 38a shown in FIG. 4.

[0087] The ticket 38a issued from the printing means in this manner is a voucher that is the result of payment being completed by the payment means, and can be used as a voucher for the provision of services and / or exchange for goods.

[0088] Similarly, a dummy "Product 1" is displayed in the place of button 4, and a dummy "Product 2" is displayed in the place of button 5. Furthermore, according to the information table of Fig. 5, button 4 is set to the first column (physical column), and button 5 is set to the second column (physical column). Product 1 is stored in the first column, and product 2 is stored in the second column.

[0089] Then, for example, when button 4 is selected and payment is completed, a mechanism provided in the first column is activated and product 1 stored in the first column is dispensed.

[0090] Here, the "physical column" dispenses products from within the vending machine, but the "physical column" of many vending machines is equipped with a function to prevent short selling. Short selling refers to a situation in which a product is not dispensed even though payment has been made. For example, a short selling situation occurs when a product is clogged and cannot be dispensed, or when payment is completed when a product is sold out and no longer exists.

[0091] As a function to prevent the emptying of products in a vending machine, for example, as disclosed in JP 2003-217024, JP 2014-225053, and Utility Model Publication No. 4-41416, a mechanism is known in which a sensor detects an abnormality when a product cannot be dispensed for some reason (e.g. the product is out of stock or the product is stuck in the column),.

[0092] In order to prevent short selling of goods in the warehouse as described above, the detection information from each sensor is output to the control means, which judges an "abnormality" based on the detection information and stops accepting payments. Methods for stopping the acceptance of payments include, for example, lighting up the words "preparing" or "sold out" on the button serving as the selection means, or not accepting payment and not collecting the money even if the button is pressed. Here, "abnormality" refers to a state in which goods in the warehouse cannot be dispensed due to at least one of the following reasons: a shortage of goods (goods) in the warehouse, goods in the warehouse not meeting certain conditions (temperature, etc.), or goods in the warehouse are jammed.

[0093] The control means may be configured to set whether or not to judge anomalies for each physical column. For example, the control means may be configured to not judge anomalies as occurring for the first column (physical column) even if a sensor detects that a product is not dispensed, and to accept payment.

[0094] On the other hand, since a "virtual column" does not exist as a real column, there is no function to prevent short selling by sensors installed in the column. Therefore, just like a physical column, there is no situation where products in the warehouse run out or products become clogged and payment acceptance is stopped.

[0095] Instead, in the "virtual column," for example, it is assumed that when the control means detects a malfunction of the printing means (e.g., out of paper, out of ink, paper jam), the buttons will light up with the words "preparing" or "sold out." It is also assumed that, for example, it will become necessary to stop selling "children's tickets" to restrict entry of children, or to stop selling "towel tickets" when towels can no longer be provided.

[0096] In such a case, for example, it is assumed that an external command can be given to the control means to light up the words "In Preparation" or "Sold Out" on button 2 for the "Children's Ticket" or button 3 for the "Towel Ticket." Commands to the control means can be given, for example, by a remote control inside the vending machine, a smartphone (information terminal) operated by a store owner or facility manager, or remote commands from outside via communication means.

[0097] As described above, as one embodiment of the present invention, In the association information, When a selection candidate is associated with an item in the warehouse, the selection candidate is associated with a physical column, When the selection candidate is associated with a printed matter, the selection candidate is associated with a virtual column; With respect to a selection candidate linked to a physical column, if an abnormality is detected in the dispensing means within the warehouse, the control means will not accept payment for the selection candidate.

[0098] This makes it possible to prevent short selling of goods in the warehouse. Preventing short selling of goods in the warehouse is particularly important in situations where there is a shortage of manpower, such as in a one-person operation. If short selling could not be prevented and the payment was collected, the staff would be busy dealing with refunds, and would be unable to perform other tasks, which could lead to the collapse of operations. This would also cause inconvenience to customers and damage their trust.

[0099] Furthermore, for the selection candidates associated with the virtual columns, in the event of a malfunction of the printing means and / or an external command, The control means does not accept payment for the selected candidates.

[0100] This makes it possible to stop the output of printed materials, and to avoid situations in which services or goods corresponding to the printed materials cannot be provided after payment has been made. Stopping the output of printed materials in this way is important, particularly in situations where there is a shortage of manpower, such as in a one-person operation. If it were impossible to provide the service or goods, the staff would be busy dealing with refunds, and would be unable to perform other tasks, which could lead to the collapse of operations. This would also cause inconvenience to customers and damage their trust.

[0101] Next, a configuration example of the printing means 30 will be described. 1, the printing means 30 can be provided, for example, on a vertical wall surface formed by the front surface 2a of the outer door 2 of the vending machine 1, or on a vertical wall surface formed by the side surface 6d of the housing 6. The printing means 30 allows paper to be replenished without opening the outer door 2, and the replenishment work can be performed easily in a short time. The printing means 30 can be, for example, a commercially available small printer, or an improved or redesigned commercially available printer.

[0102] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the printing means 30 is composed of a printing unit 31, a paper supply unit 32 for storing and supplying paper 33, a motor (not shown), a control board (not shown), a cover 34 for storing these, and a communication unit 37 for receiving printing instructions from the control means.

[0103] The printing means 30 is configured as a unit, and each part that configures the printing means 30 is contained within a cover 34, and can be installed in an empty space on the front surface 2a of the outer door 2 without making any significant modifications to the front surface 2a of the outer door 2. The paper 33 is also contained within the cover 34 and is disposed on the outside of the outer door 2, not on the inside of the outer door 2, so that, as will be described in detail later, paper can be replaced or other paper replenishment can be performed without opening the outer door 2.

[0104] When installing the printing means 30 on the front surface 2a of the outer door 2, it is preferable that the thickness of the printing means 30 is set to a predetermined thickness or less so that the protruding dimension from the front surface 2a falls within a predetermined range. If the printing means 30 protrudes significantly from the outer door 2, it may be damaged by a pedestrian colliding with it. For example, it is possible to limit the thickness of the printing means 30 to 10 cm or less, 20 cm or less, etc. The minimum thickness is determined by the thickness dimension of the paper 33, and is expected to be, for example, 1 cm or more, 2 cm or more, or 3 cm or more. Also, it is preferable that the thickness is 20 cm or less, 15 cm or less, 13 cm or less, 12 cm or less, 10 cm or less, 8 cm or less, or 6 cm or less.

[0105] As shown in Fig. 9, printing means 30 has a function that allows paper to be replenished in paper supply unit 32 when paper is replenished. For example, cover 34 is openable and closable to open paper supply unit 32 when replacing paper 33 and to allow paper replenishment. Cover 34 is configured so that paper can be replenished by opening and closing it independently without opening outer door 2 provided on housing 6.

[0106] In the example of Fig. 9, the cover 34 rotates around a rotating shaft portion disposed on its underside, and when installing new paper 33 or refilling new paper, it can be opened from top to bottom, that is, by tilting it forward. According to this method of opening and closing, the cover 34 does not get in the way and the work can be improved when the paper 33 replacement work is performed by looking at it from above, particularly when the height position of the printing means 30 from the floor on which the vending machine is installed is low, for example, 1m or less, and the cover 34 does not get in the way. In addition, the work can be improved by making it possible to replace the paper 33 without removing the cover 34 when the cover 34 is opened.

[0107] The printing means 30 can have a function to prevent the paper 33 from falling when refilling the paper. In the example of Fig. 9, an arc-shaped support plate 34a is provided on the inner surface of the cover 34, and the paper 33 is placed on this support plate 34a to prevent the paper 33 from shifting and falling. This support plate 34a can also be used as a space to temporarily place the paper 33 when refilling the paper 33.

[0108] The cover 34 may be configured to be opened from below to above, that is, to be opened by flipping up, when refilling the paper 33. According to such an opening and closing method, particularly if the cover 34 can be flipped up 180 degrees, the cover 34 does not get in the way when refilling the paper 33, improving workability. Also, when the cover 34 is open, the paper 33 can be refilled without removing the cover 34, improving workability.

[0109] Also, the cover 34 may be configured to be opened horizontally when refilling the paper 33, that is, like a door opening to the right or left. According to such an opening and closing method, the cover 34 will not close or open due to its own weight during the refilling work, improving the workability. Also, when the cover 34 is open, the paper 33 can be refilled without removing the cover 34, improving the workability.

[0110] Also, the cover 34 may be configured to be opened in a sliding manner when refilling the paper 33, that is, the cover 34 may be opened by moving to the right or left. According to such an opening and closing method, a configuration in which the cover 34 can be opened without providing a rotating shaft part can be realized, and a configuration in which the rotating shaft part is omitted can be realized. Also, by making it possible to refill the paper 33 without removing the cover 34 when it is opened, the workability is improved.

[0111] 9, the entire cover 34 may be rotated to allow refilling of paper 33, or a removable lid 35 may be provided to open a portion of the paper supply unit 32 to form an opening 32a, as shown in the example of Fig. 10. In this case, the lid 35 is for refilling paper without opening an outer door provided on the housing of the vending machine, and constitutes a paper refilling function in the paper refilling unit of the printing means.

[0112] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the paper 33 can be in a roll shape, which allows for easy paper replenishment. In this case, paper replenishment involves removing the core of an already used roll and installing a new roll of paper. The paper 33 is sent out to a predetermined length and printed by the printing unit 31, and then cut by the cutter 36 to be provided in the form of a printed matter, slip of paper, ticket, voucher, etc.

[0113] Next, an example of the introduction and operation of an unmanned sales system will be described. The vending machine 1 constituting the unmanned vending system can be installed either outdoors or indoors. For example, in a facility such as a public bath, it can be installed outdoors in an open area outside the entrance, under a roof outside the entrance, in an entrance hall, a rest area, or at a service counter.

[0114] In cases where the vending machine 1 constituting the unmanned vending system is installed outdoors, it is particularly preferable to provide a locking function that restricts the opening and closing of the cover of the printing means, and / or a waterproofing function that prevents water from entering the cover. For example, the printing means can be provided in an exterior cover that is installed on the vertical wall surface of the housing or the vertical wall surface of the outer door. The exterior cover may be configured as a transparent box that covers the entire printing means from the outside, or as a canopy that prevents raindrops from hitting the printing means.

[0115] The unmanned vending system can be newly installed at a store by manufacturing a vending machine 1 as shown in Fig. 1. This allows the store to operate an unmanned vending system that combines a ticket vending machine and an automatic vending machine. In this case, installing a vending machine means that a ticket vending machine can be installed at the same time, and there is no problem with the space required for the ticket vending machine or the cost of the ticket vending machine alone, making it easy to install in stores that do not currently have ticket vending machines.

[0116] In stores that already have vending machines installed, the unmanned vending system of the present invention can be implemented by additionally installing an information acquisition means and a printing means to the existing vending machines. In this case, the functions of a ticket vending machine can be added while utilizing the existing vending machines, and there is no problem of the space required for the ticket vending machines or the burden of the equipment costs for the ticket vending machines alone, making it easy to introduce the system to stores that do not have ticket vending machines installed.

[0117] In stores that already have ticket vending machines installed, by replacing them with the unmanned vending system of the present invention, it becomes possible to continue unmanned ticket issuing as before while also providing products through vending machines. In this case, the existing ticket vending machines can be removed, and the maintenance costs and contracts for the ticket vending machines can be terminated, allowing the operation to be switched to ticket issuing through vending machines. By introducing vending machines, for example, in restaurants, customers can purchase drinks from the vending machines, reducing the effort required for store staff to provide drinks.

[0118] In addition, the replenishing of products in the vending machine is done by a vendor through route delivery, and the only work required at the installation site is to refill paper, so the burden on the installation site is small after introduction. In addition, since paper can be refilled without opening the outer door, by simply opening and closing the cover on the printing means, operation by the store owner etc. can be easily performed after the unmanned vending system is introduced.

[0119] In addition, by configuring the printing means as a unit that can be replaced in the vending machine, if the printing means breaks down or requires maintenance, it is possible to deal with the problem by simply replacing the printing means unit, thereby preventing the ticket vending machine from becoming unusable for an extended period of time.

[0120] The printing means 30 may also be placed in a location physically separated from the vending machine 1. For example, it may be placed at a staffed counter in a facility such as a public bath, or in the kitchen or counter of a restaurant. This allows staff at the facility or restaurant to obtain the tickets, reducing the effort required to hand over the tickets to customers, preventing virus infection through indirect contact via the ticket, and providing a hygienic environment.

[0121] In addition, as a diversion of the above technology, a system or control method can be constructed that displays an image code (bathing QR code (registered trademark)) on the customer's smartphone instead of a printed matter (bathing ticket, etc.). In this case, the customer can take a bath by showing the image code on their smartphone at the entrance.

[0122] As a specific example, A presentation means for presenting a plurality of options from which the customer can select; at least one selection means for selecting one of a plurality of selection candidates; a payment means for paying for the selection candidate selected by the selection means; dispensing means for storing an item and dispensing the item when the item is selected; an information terminal recognition data transmission means (e.g., Bluetooth (registered trademark), E-mail transmission, LINE (registered trademark), etc.) for transmitting the information terminal recognition data to an information terminal (e.g., smartphone) when the selection candidate is information terminal recognition data (e.g., image data to be displayed on a smartphone); An information acquisition means having a function of acquiring information including at least information terminal recognition data to be transmitted to the information terminal; A control method for an unmanned sales system having a control means connected to a selection means, a settlement means, a dispensing means, and an information acquisition means, comprising: The control means includes: Based on association information for associating each selection means with each selection candidate, When the selected selection candidate is an article, the article is dispensed from a dispensing means; When the selected selection candidate is information terminal recognition data, The information terminal recognition data is transmitted by an information terminal recognition data transmitting means.

[0123] In addition, in the case of printed matter, "when a selection candidate is linked to a printed matter, the selection candidate is linked to a virtual column," but when an image code is displayed on a smartphone, it is possible to "link the selection candidate to a virtual column when the selection candidate is linked to information terminal recognition data."

[0124] The information terminal recognition data may be displayed in a form that is easy for the customer to understand, such as a sign 72 with "adult" written on it as shown in Fig. 1, and when the customer selects a button, an image of ticket 38a shown in Fig. 4 may be displayed as an image code on the customer's information terminal. Alternatively, the same content as ticket 38a shown in Fig. 4 may be displayed on sign 72.

[0125] The information terminal recognition data transmission means for transmitting the information terminal recognition data to the customer's information terminal (e.g., smartphone) may be, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark), email, or LINE (registered trademark), but it is preferable to establish communication between the unmanned vending system and the customer's information terminal. For example, a QR code (registered trademark) displayed on a vending machine may be read by the customer's information terminal, thereby recognizing the vending machine at the customer's information terminal and making it possible to receive information terminal recognition data from the vending machine. Alternatively, a QR code (registered trademark) displayed on a display tag 72 shown in FIG. 1 may be read by the customer's information terminal, thereby recognizing the vending machine at the customer's information terminal and making it possible to receive information terminal recognition data from the vending machine. Alternatively, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) signal emitted by a communication means may be received by the customer's information terminal, thereby recognizing the vending machine at the customer's information terminal and making it possible to receive information terminal recognition data from the vending machine. After the payment is completed at the vending machine, the control means transmits the information terminal recognition data to the customer's information terminal, thereby making the information terminal recognition data displayable on the customer's information terminal.

[0126] As another specific example, A presentation means for presenting a plurality of options from which the customer can select; at least one selection means for selecting one of a plurality of selection candidates; a payment means for paying for the selection candidate selected by the selection means; dispensing means for storing an item and dispensing the item when the item is selected; an information terminal recognition data transmitting means for transmitting the information terminal recognition data to the information terminal when the selected candidate is the information terminal recognition data; An information acquisition means having a function of acquiring information including at least information terminal recognition data to be transmitted to the information terminal; A control method for an unmanned sales system having a control means connected to a selection means, a settlement means, a dispensing means, and an information acquisition means, comprising: The control means includes: Based on association information for associating each selection means with each selection candidate, When the selected selection candidate is an article, the article is dispensed from a dispensing means; When the selected selection candidate is information terminal recognition data, the information terminal recognition data is transmitted by an information terminal recognition data transmitting means; In the association information, When a selection candidate is associated with an item in the warehouse, the selection candidate is associated with a physical column; When the selection candidate is associated with the information terminal recognition data, the selection candidate is associated with a virtual column; This is a control method for an unmanned sales system in which, when an abnormality is detected in the dispensing means for a selection option linked to a physical column, the control means does not accept payment for that selection option.

[0127] When constructing a system or control method for displaying an image code on a customer's smartphone, it is possible to repurpose a system and control method similar to those used when providing printed matter by a printing means. [Explanation of symbols]

[0128] 1. Vending Machines 2 outer door 2A Main Door 2B Display Door 2C Upper inner door 2D Lower Inner Door 2a front 3 Buttons 6. Chassis 6d Side 7 mouths 9. Ventilation 30 Printing means 31 Printing section 32 Paper supply unit 32a opening 33 Paper 34 Cover 34a Support plate 35 Lid 36 Cutter 38a Ticket 41 Safe Cover 42 Bill Validator 43 Coin Mechanism 44 Cash Box 45 Remote Control 46 Control Box 52 Column device 52F Product slot 54 Product Shoot 55 Heat exchanger 56 Information Table 61 Presentation means 62 Selection methods 63 Payment Methods 63a Card reader 63b Bill insertion section 63c Coin slot 63d display section 63e Return Slot 71 Dummy 72 Display tag 74 Handle 100 Control means 200 Management Bases

Claims

1. A payment method for an unmanned sales system equipped with a printing means capable of refilling paper without opening an outer door provided on a housing, comprising: As a means of payment, A payment method for an unmanned vending system using one or more of the following payment means: a means for processing payments using coins inserted into the unmanned vending system, a means for processing payments using banknotes inserted into the unmanned vending system, a means for processing payments using electronic money cards, a means for processing payments using credit cards, a means for processing smartphone app payments, a payment means using a communication function with a smartphone, a means for processing payments using debit cards, a means for processing payments using image codes, a settlement means having electronic functions, a payment means using a payment permission card, and a payment means using a payment permission coin.

2. A payment method for an unmanned sales system equipped with a printing means capable of refilling paper without opening an outer door provided on a housing, comprising: As a means of payment, A payment method for an unmanned sales system equipped with a printing means capable of refilling paper without opening an outer door provided on a housing, using one or more of the following payment means: a means for processing a payment using coins inserted into the unmanned sales system, a means for processing a payment using paper notes inserted into the unmanned sales system, a means for processing a payment using an electronic money card, a means for processing a payment using a credit card, a means for processing a payment using an application payment on a smartphone, a payment means using a communication function with a smartphone, a means for processing a payment using a debit card, a means for processing a payment using an image code, a settlement means having an electronic function, a payment means using a payment permission card, and a payment means using a payment permission coin, The unmanned sales system includes: A presentation means for presenting a plurality of options from which a user can select; at least one selection means for selecting one of a plurality of selection candidates; a payment means for paying for the selection candidate selected by the selection means; dispensing means for storing an item and dispensing the item when the item is selected; a printing means for printing the printed matter when the selection candidate is a printed matter; An information acquisition means having a function of acquiring information including at least print information to be printed on paper; A control means connected to the selection means, the settlement means, the dispensing means, and the information acquisition means, The presenting means, the selecting means, the settlement means, the dispensing means, the printing means, the information acquiring means, and the control means are provided in one housing, The printing means is provided on an exterior surface of the housing, The paper for the printing means can be replenished with the outer door closed. A payment method for an unmanned sales system.

3. 3. The payment method for an unmanned sales system according to claim 1, wherein the print instruction to the printing means can be transmitted from the control means wirelessly and / or via wire.

4. 3. The settlement method for an unmanned vending system according to claim 1, wherein power is supplied to the printing means from the unmanned vending system.

5. 3. The payment method for an unmanned sales system according to claim 1, wherein the printing means has a function of the information acquisition means.

6. 3. The payment method for an unmanned sales system according to claim 1, wherein the information acquisition means is capable of acquiring at least the print information via communication and / or a recording medium.

7. The information acquisition means is capable of acquiring at least the payment information and / or the associated information via communication or a recording medium; The payment information is the price for each selection option, 3. The payment method for an unmanned sales system according to claim 1, wherein the association information is information for associating each selection means with each selection candidate.

8. The information acquisition means is capable of acquiring at least the payment information and / or the associated information via communication or a recording medium; The payment information is the price for each selection option, 7. The payment method for an unmanned sales system according to claim 6, wherein the association information is information for associating each selection means with each selection candidate.

9. The printing means is installed on a vertical wall surface of the housing or a vertical wall surface of the outer door, The printer includes a printing unit and a paper supply unit for storing and supplying paper.

3. The payment method for an unmanned sales system according to claim 1, wherein the printing means has a function of enabling paper to be replenished at the paper supply unit when paper is replenished.

10. The printing means is installed on a vertical wall surface of the housing or a vertical wall surface of the outer door, The printer includes a printing unit and a paper supply unit for storing and supplying paper.

3. The settlement method for an unmanned sales system according to claim 1, wherein the printing means has a cover that opens and closes to open a paper supply section when paper is to be replenished.

11. The printing means is installed on a vertical wall surface of the housing or a vertical wall surface of the outer door, The printer includes a printing unit and a paper supply unit for storing and supplying paper. A payment method for an unmanned sales system as described in claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the printing means has a cover that opens and closes to open the paper supply section when paper is replenished, and the cover can be opened from below and then from above when paper is replenished.

12. The printing means is installed on a vertical wall surface of the housing or a vertical wall surface of the outer door, The printer includes a printing unit and a paper supply unit for storing and supplying paper. A payment method for an unmanned sales system as described in claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the printing means has a cover that opens and closes to open the paper supply section when paper is replenished, and the cover can be opened from above and from below when paper is replenished.

13. The printing means is installed on a vertical wall surface of the housing or a vertical wall surface of the outer door, The printer includes a printing unit and a paper supply unit for storing and supplying paper.

3. A payment method for an unmanned sales system as described in claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the printing means has a cover that opens and closes to open the paper supply section when paper is replenished, and the cover can be opened horizontally when paper is replenished.

14. The printing means is installed on a vertical wall surface of the housing or a vertical wall surface of the outer door, The printer includes a printing unit and a paper supply unit for storing and supplying paper. A payment method for an unmanned sales system as described in claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the printing means has a cover that opens and closes to open the paper supply section when paper is replenished, and the cover can be opened in a sliding manner when paper is replenished.

15. 3. The payment method for an unmanned sales system according to claim 1, wherein the thickness of the printing means is equal to or smaller than a predetermined thickness.

16. 3. The settlement method for an unmanned sales system according to claim 1, wherein the paper supplied to the printing means is in a roll shape.

17. The unmanned sales system will be installed indoors.

3. The payment method for an unmanned sales system according to claim 1 or 2.

18. 3. The payment method for an unmanned sales system according to claim 1, wherein the printing means has a locking function for restricting opening and closing of a cover of the printing means, and / or a waterproofing function for preventing water from entering the cover.

19. 3. The payment method for an unmanned sales system according to claim 1, wherein the printing means has a function for preventing the paper from falling when the paper is replenished.

20. 3. The payment method for an unmanned sales system according to claim 1, wherein the printing means is provided within an exterior cover that is installed on a vertical wall surface of the housing or on a vertical wall surface of an outer door.

21. 3. The payment method for an unmanned sales system according to claim 1, wherein the printed matter printed by the printing means is a voucher resulting from the completion of payment by the payment means.

22. 3. A payment method for an unmanned sales system as described in claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the printed matter printed by the printing means is a voucher as a result of payment being completed by the payment means, and is a voucher for the provision of services and / or exchange for goods.

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