Vending machine, sound output method, and program

Abstract

To solve a problem that conventional sound output functions of vending machines could not be used to provide entertainment.SOLUTION: A vending machine that can provide entertainment by sound output functions includes: a sound acquisition unit 131 that refers to a sound management unit 111 in which first sound information and second sound information, which are at least two different sets of sound information associated with each of two or more buttons, are stored, and acquires the first sound information corresponding to one button when the first condition is met, and acquires the second sound information corresponding to one button when the second condition is met after the first condition is met; and a sound output unit 15 that outputs the first sound information acquired by the sound acquisition unit 131 and outputs the second sound information acquired by the sound acquisition unit 131 after the first sound information is output.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a vending machine or the like that outputs sound information. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, in vending machines that output sound patterns in accordance with display information such as sales and advertisements, there has been technology that allows vending machine managers to easily change the settings of the sound patterns corresponding to the display (see Patent Document 1).

[0003] Furthermore, in the past, there was a vending machine that, when a product selection button was touched, would announce the contents of the product sample corresponding to that button by voice, allowing the customer to audibly distinguish whether the product selection button he or she was touching was the product he or she wished to purchase, completely eliminating the risk of purchasing the wrong product due to erroneous operation of the selection button (see Patent Document 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2000-149119 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2002-117445 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in the prior art, it has not been possible to provide a vending machine that can provide entertainment value, for example, by using the sound output function of the vending machine. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The vending machine of the first invention is a vending machine that includes a sound acquisition unit that references a sound management unit in which at least two different pieces of related sound information, first sound information and second sound information, are stored in correspondence with each of two or more buttons, and acquires the first sound information corresponding to a button when a first condition is satisfied, and acquires the second sound information corresponding to a button when a second condition is satisfied after the first condition is satisfied, and a sound output unit that outputs the first sound information acquired by the sound acquisition unit, and outputs the second sound information acquired by the sound acquisition unit after outputting the first sound information.

[0007] With this configuration, it is possible to provide, for example, an entertaining vending machine by sequentially outputting two different pieces of sound information. Note that sequential output does not necessarily mean that there is a silent period between the output of the two pieces of sound information.

[0008] In addition, compared to the first invention, the vending machine of the second invention further includes a selection receiving unit that accepts the selection of one of the buttons, and the sound acquisition unit includes a sound output unit that outputs first sound information before the selection receiving unit accepts the selection and outputs second sound information corresponding to the one of the buttons after the selection receiving unit accepts the selection.

[0009] With this configuration, it is possible to provide, for example, an entertaining vending machine by outputting different sounds before and after the selection of one button.

[0010] Further, the vending machine of the third invention differs from the vending machine of the first invention in that the selection of one button is the selection of a button for purchasing a product corresponding to the one button.

[0011] With this configuration, for example, an entertaining vending machine can be provided by outputting different sounds before and after a product is purchased.

[0012] Furthermore, the vending machine of the fourth invention is a vending machine in which, compared to the second invention, the selection of one button is a second selection, the selection receiving unit receives a first selection which is a button selection for purchasing a product, and the sound output unit outputs first sound information when the selection receiving unit receives the first selection, and outputs second sound information when the selection receiving unit receives a second selection after receiving the first selection.

[0013] With this configuration, for example, an entertaining vending machine can be provided by outputting first sound information in response to the selection of a button when purchasing a product, and outputting second sound information in response to the selection of a button after the product has been purchased.

[0014] Furthermore, in the vending machine of the fifth invention, compared to the fourth invention, the sound output unit outputs second sound information only if the selection receiving unit receives a second selection within a predetermined time after receiving the first selection.

[0015] With this configuration, it is possible to provide, for example, an entertaining vending machine by outputting first sound information in response to the selection of a button when purchasing a product, and outputting second sound information in response to the selection of a button within a specified time period after the purchase of the product.

[0016] In addition, the vending machine of the sixth invention is a vending machine according to any one of the first to fifth inventions, in which the first sound information is sound information that identifies a question, and the second sound information is sound information that identifies an answer to the question.

[0017] With this configuration, for example, an entertaining vending machine can be provided by outputting sound information of a question before a button is selected and outputting sound information of an answer to the question after the button is selected.

[0018] In addition, the vending machine of the seventh invention is a vending machine comprising: a selection receiving unit that sequentially receives the selection of two or more buttons after the product is dispensed; a sound acquisition unit that refers to a sound management unit in which sound information is stored in correspondence with each of the two or more buttons, and sequentially acquires sound information corresponding to each of the two or more buttons accepted by the selection receiving unit within a threshold time after the product is dispensed; and a sound output unit that sequentially outputs each of the two or more sound information acquired by the sound acquisition unit.

[0019] With this configuration, the functionality of the musical instrument can be provided to the user after purchasing the product.

[0020] In addition, the vending machine of the eighth invention is different from the vending machine of the seventh invention in that the sound management unit stores sound information corresponding to each of the two or more buttons in a manner that specifies the order of the two or more sound information that make up a piece of music, and further includes a change unit that makes the display of each of the two or more buttons corresponding to each of the two or more sound information different from other buttons in accordance with the order of the two or more sound information.

[0021] With this configuration, it is possible to provide a function for easily playing music after purchasing the product.

[0022] In addition, the vending machine of the ninth invention is a vending machine according to any one of the first to eighth inventions, in which the sound output unit outputs the first sound information and the second sound information only when predetermined conditions are satisfied.

[0023] With this configuration, it is possible to provide entertainment features, for example, only when appropriate.

[0024] The vending machine of the tenth aspect of the present invention is a vending machine according to the ninth aspect of the present invention, wherein the predetermined condition is a condition related to the time period of the current time.

[0025] With this configuration, for example, a function that provides entertainment value can be provided only during appropriate times. If the conditions are set to exclude the nighttime hours, sound information is not output during the night, so that, for example, sleep is not disturbed. Effect of the Invention

[0026] According to the vending machine of the present invention, it is possible to provide a vending machine that is, for example, entertaining by using the sound output function. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] Block diagram of a vending machine 1 according to the first embodiment [Diagram 2] A flowchart explaining an example of the operation of the vending machine 1. [Diagram 3] A diagram showing the condition management table [Figure 4] A homophone management table [Diagram 5] A homophone management table [Figure 6] A diagram showing the conditional sound management table [Figure 7] Image of the same specific example 3 [Figure 8] Block diagram of vending machine 2 in embodiment 2 [Figure 9] A flowchart explaining a first operation example of the vending machine 2. [Figure 10] A flowchart explaining a second operation example of the vending machine 2. [Figure 11] A homophone management table [Figure 12] A diagram showing the music management table DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0028] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a vending machine or the like will be described with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments, components with the same reference numerals perform the same operations, so that the repeated description may be omitted.

[0029] (Embodiment 1) In this embodiment, at least two pieces of sound information (first sound information and second sound information) are stored in association with each of two or more buttons, and a vending machine is described that outputs the first sound information before a button is selected and outputs the second sound information after the button is selected. The selection of the button is, for example, the selection of a button for purchasing a product. The first sound information is, for example, sound information that specifies a question, and the second sound information is, for example, sound information that specifies the answer to the question.

[0030] In addition, in this embodiment, a vending machine is described that outputs first sound information after accepting a first selection of a button for purchasing a product, and outputs second sound information after a second selection of a button after the product has been purchased.

[0031] In addition, in this embodiment, a vending machine will be described that outputs second sound information only when a second selection is received within a predetermined time from the time corresponding to the first selection.

[0032] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a vending machine that outputs a sound only when a predetermined condition is satisfied will be described. Note that the condition is, for example, a condition related to the time period of the current time.

[0033] In this specification, information X being associated with information Y means that information Y can be obtained from information X, or information X can be obtained from information Y, and the method of association is not important. Information X and information Y may be linked, may exist in the same buffer, information X may be included in information Y, or information Y may be included in information X, etc.

[0034] Furthermore, in this specification, selecting or determining information Z means obtaining information Z, obtaining a pointer to information Z, obtaining the ID of information Z, setting a flag for information Z, etc., and is sufficient as long as information Z can be accessed.

[0035] 1 is a block diagram of a vending machine 1 according to the present embodiment. The vending machine 1 includes a storage unit 11, a selection receiving unit 12, a processing unit 13, a discharge unit 14, and a sound output unit 15. The storage unit 11 includes a sound management unit 111. The processing unit 13 includes a sound acquisition unit 131.

[0036] Various types of information are stored in the storage unit 11. The various types of information are sound information, which will be described later. The sound information is, for example, first sound information, which will be described later, and second sound information, which will be described later. The sound information is information for constituting sound. The sound is, for example, voice, music, etc., but it does not matter. The sound may be other types of sound, such as animal cries, car engine sounds, train operation sounds, and airplane flight sounds. The sound information is, for example, PCM, but the data structure does not matter. The sound information is, for example, WAV files and aiff files, but the data format does not matter.

[0037] The sound management unit 111 stores first sound information and second sound information. The first sound information and the second sound information are usually different sound information. The first sound information and the second sound information are usually sound information related to each other in content. For example, the sound information related to the content is sound information in which the first sound information specifies a question and the second sound information specifies an answer to the question. The first sound information and the second sound information correspond to a button. It is preferable that each of two or more buttons of the vending machine 1 corresponds to the first sound information and the second sound information. It is preferable that each of two or more buttons corresponds to different first sound information and different second sound information.

[0038] The fact that a button is associated with sound information means that sound information is determined when a button is determined. The button and the first sound information may have a one-to-one relationship or a multiple-to-one relationship. The button and the second sound information may have a one-to-one relationship or a multiple-to-one relationship. In other words, the first sound information corresponding to two or more buttons may be the same sound information. Also, the second sound information corresponding to two or more buttons may be the same sound information. However, it is not desirable that the first sound information corresponding to all buttons is the same and the second sound information corresponding to all buttons is the same. This is because it is considered that entertainment value will decrease. Note that it is preferable that the first sound information corresponding to two or more buttons is two or more sound information. Also, it is preferable that the second sound information corresponding to two or more buttons is two or more sound information. Also, the fact that a button is associated with sound information means, for example, that a button identifier is associated with sound information. Also, the fact that sound information is associated with a button may be considered to mean that sound information is associated with a column. Note that the button identifier is information that identifies a button. The button identifier is, for example, the ID of the button, but may also be the ID of a column.

[0039] The button is usually a button for the user to select a product. However, the button may be another button such as a button for returning inserted cash. The button is usually a physical button on the vending machine 1. However, the button may be a virtual button displayed on the display (e.g., a touch panel) of the vending machine 1, or a virtual button displayed on the screen of a terminal (not shown) that operates the vending machine 1. Such a terminal is, for example, a smartphone or tablet terminal used by a user. The user is, for example, a purchaser of the product. The button is usually an object that the user presses, but it may be any object that can be selected.

[0040] The sound management unit 111 may be included in a server (not shown) rather than in the vending machine 1. In this case, the vending machine 1 accesses the server and obtains sound information from the server.

[0041] The selection receiving unit 12 receives the selection of one button. Receiving the selection of one button usually means receiving the selection of one button out of two or more buttons. Here, the selection of one button is preferably the selection of a button for purchasing a product corresponding to the button.

[0042] It is preferable that the selection receiving unit 12 receives a first selection which is a selection of a button for purchasing a product.

[0043] It is preferable that the selection receiving unit 12 receives the second selection after the selection receiving unit 12 receives the first selection. It is preferable that the second selection is the selection of the same button as the button corresponding to the first selection, but it may be the selection of a button different from the button corresponding to the first selection.

[0044] Here, acceptance refers to, for example, acceptance of pressing a physical button, acceptance of an instruction input from an input device such as a touch panel, or receipt of an instruction transmitted via a wired or wireless communication line.

[0045] The processing unit 13 performs various types of processing. The various types of processing are, for example, processing performed by a sound acquisition unit 131.

[0046] The sound acquisition unit 131 refers to the sound management unit 111, and if a first condition is satisfied, acquires first sound information corresponding to one of the buttons, and if a second condition is satisfied after the first condition is satisfied, acquires second sound information corresponding to one of the buttons.

[0047] The first condition is, for example, a condition regarding the selection of a button, a condition regarding the purchase of a product, a condition regarding the user's payment, a time condition, or a condition regarding the environment of the place where the vending machine 1 is installed. The condition regarding the selection of a button is, for example, the selection of one button, or the selection of another button different from the one button in the second condition. The condition regarding the purchase of a product is, for example, the discharge of a product. The discharge of a product may also be the output of a product discharge signal in the vending machine 1. The condition regarding the user's payment is, for example, the insertion of cash into the insertion slot of the vending machine 1, the reading of an IC card, or the making of a payment by electronic money. The time condition is, for example, the current time being a specified time zone. The condition regarding the environment is, for example, the weather in the place where the vending machine 1 is installed being a specified weather, or the temperature being within a specified range. In addition, the first condition may be the vending machine 1 detecting a person, the vending machine 1 detecting a person, the power of the vending machine 1 being ON, or the like.

[0048] The second condition is, for example, a condition related to the selection of a button, a condition related to the purchase of a product, a condition related to a user's payment, a time condition, or a condition related to the environment of the location where the vending machine 1 is installed. The second condition may be that the vending machine 1 has detected a person, that the vending machine 1 is in a state in which it is detecting a person, or that the power of the vending machine 1 is ON. The second condition is, for example, that a predetermined time has elapsed after the first condition has been satisfied, or that a predetermined time has elapsed after the output of the first sound information has been completed. It is preferable that the first condition and the second condition are different conditions.

[0049] The sound acquisition unit 131 acquires, for example, first sound information corresponding to the selection accepted by the selection accepting unit 12 from the sound management unit 111. More specifically, the sound acquisition unit 131 determines, for example, a button identifier corresponding to the selection accepted by the selection accepting unit 12, and acquires first sound information corresponding to the button identifier from the sound management unit 111. Note that the selection accepted by the selection accepting unit 12 here is, for example, a selection for purchasing a product, and is the selection of a button corresponding to the product.

[0050] The sound acquisition unit 131 acquires, for example, second sound information corresponding to the selection accepted by the selection acceptance unit 12 from the sound management unit 111. More specifically, the sound acquisition unit 131 determines, for example, a button identifier corresponding to the selection accepted by the selection acceptance unit 12, and acquires second sound information corresponding to the button identifier from the sound management unit 111. Note that the selection accepted by the selection acceptance unit 12 here is, for example, the selection of a button after purchasing a product. It is preferable that this selection be the same button as the button selected for purchasing the product, but it may be the selection of another button.

[0051] The discharge unit 14 discharges a product. The discharge unit 14 discharges a product when the discharge conditions are met. The discharge conditions are that a product is selected and the price of the product is paid. When the selection receiving unit 12 selects a button to purchase a product, the discharge unit 14 discharges the product corresponding to the button. When the selection receiving unit 12 selects a button to purchase a product, the discharge unit 14 discharges the product in the column corresponding to the button. Note that such product discharge processing is a known technology, and detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0052] The sound output unit 15 outputs the first sound information acquired by the sound acquisition unit 131, and after outputting the first sound information, outputs the second sound information acquired by the sound acquisition unit 131.

[0053] For example, sound output unit 15 outputs first sound information before selection receiving unit 12 receives selection of one button, and outputs second sound information corresponding to the one button after selection receiving unit 12 receives selection of the one button. For example, sound output unit 15 outputs the first sound information when a first condition is satisfied before selection of one button when outputting the second sound information.

[0054] The output of sound information is usually the output of sound from a microphone. The content of the sound information does not matter. The output of sound information is also the output of sound.

[0055] The sound output unit 15 outputs first sound information, for example, when the selection receiving unit 12 receives a first selection, and outputs second sound information when the selection receiving unit 12 receives a second selection after receiving the first selection.

[0056] The first selection is, for example, the selection of a button for purchasing a product, and the second selection is, for example, the selection of a button after purchasing the product. Also, the first selection is, for example, the selection of a button before purchasing a product, and the second selection is, for example, the selection of a button for purchasing the product.

[0057] It is preferable that the sound output unit 15 outputs the second sound information only when the second selection is received within a predetermined time after the selection receiving unit 12 receives the first selection. In such a case, it is preferable that the first selection is the selection of a button for purchasing a product, and the second selection is the selection of a button after the product is purchased. Note that within the predetermined time means, for example, within a threshold time or less than a threshold time. The predetermined time may change dynamically. The predetermined time may change dynamically depending on, for example, the price of the purchased product. In such a case, typically, the higher the price of the product, the longer the predetermined time.

[0058] It is preferable that the sound output unit 15 outputs the first sound information and the second sound information only when a predetermined condition is satisfied.

[0059] The predetermined condition is, for example, a condition related to the time period of the current time. The predetermined condition is, for example, from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. In this case, the sound output unit 15 outputs sound information only between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.

[0060] The predetermined conditions are, for example, conditions related to the environment. The conditions related to the environment are, for example, conditions related to the weather and temperature. The condition related to the weather is, for example, "weather=sunny OR cloudy". The condition related to the temperature is, for example, "38 degrees <= temperature <= 5 degrees".

[0061] The storage unit 11 and the sound management unit 111 are preferably non-volatile recording media, but may also be realized as volatile recording media.

[0062] There is no restriction on the process by which information is stored in the storage unit 11, etc. For example, information may be stored in the storage unit 11, etc. via a recording medium, information transmitted via a communication line, etc. may be stored in the storage unit 11, etc., or information inputted via an input device may be stored in the storage unit 11, etc.

[0063] The selection receiving unit 12 can be realized by a device driver for an input means such as a touch panel or a keyboard, control software for a menu screen, etc. Furthermore, the selection receiving unit 12 may be realized by a wireless or wired communication means.

[0064] The processing unit 13, the sound acquisition unit 131, and the output unit 14 can usually be realized by a processor, a memory, etc. The processing procedure of the processing unit 13, etc. is usually realized by software, and the software is recorded in a recording medium such as a ROM. However, it may be realized by hardware (dedicated circuit). The processor may be a CPU, MPU, GPU, etc., and the type is not important.

[0065] The discharge unit 14 may have a known product discharge mechanism in a vending machine.

[0066] The sound output unit 15 may or may not include a speaker. The sound output unit 15 may be realized by speaker driver software or by a speaker and a speaker driver software.

[0067] Next, an example of the operation of the vending machine 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0068] (Step S201) Sound acquisition unit 131 attempts to acquire one or more pieces of information necessary for judging the first condition. Next, sound acquisition unit 131 judges whether or not the first condition is satisfied using the one or more pieces of information. If the first condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S202, and if the first condition is not satisfied, the process proceeds to step S212. The one or more pieces of information required are, for example, the button identifier of a selected button, the amount deposited, or the fact that a product has been purchased. Note that in this step, there may be cases where one or more pieces of information necessary for judging the first condition cannot be acquired. In such cases, the first condition is not satisfied.

[0069] (Step S202) The sound acquisition unit 131 determines the button corresponding to the first condition determined to be satisfied in step S201, and acquires first sound information corresponding to the button from the storage unit 11. Note that here, the sound acquisition unit 131 may acquire first sound information corresponding to all buttons. In such a case, the sound acquisition unit 131 does not perform a process of determining the button corresponding to the first condition.

[0070] (Step S203) The sound output unit 15 outputs the first sound information acquired in step S202.

[0071] (Step S204) The discharge unit 14 judges whether or not the discharge conditions for discharging the product are satisfied. If the discharge conditions are satisfied, the process proceeds to step S205, and if not, the process proceeds to step S206.

[0072] (Step S205) The discharge unit 14 discharges the product which satisfies the discharge condition and corresponds to the button selected for purchasing the product.

[0073] (Step S206) Sound acquisition unit 131 acquires one or more pieces of information necessary for determining whether the second condition is satisfied. Sound acquisition unit 131 uses the one or more pieces of information to determine whether the second condition is satisfied. If the second condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S207, and if the second condition is not satisfied, the process proceeds to step S211. The one or more pieces of information necessary here are, for example, the button identifier of the selected button, the time elapsed since the first sound information was output, the amount of money deposited, or the fact that a product has been purchased.

[0074] (Step S207) The sound acquisition unit 131 determines the button corresponding to the second condition determined to be satisfied in step S206, and acquires second sound information corresponding to the button from the storage unit 11. Here, the sound acquisition unit 131 may acquire second sound information corresponding to all buttons. In such a case, the sound acquisition unit 131 does not perform a process of determining the button corresponding to the second condition.

[0075] (Step S208) The sound output unit 15 outputs the second sound information acquired in step S207.

[0076] (Step S209) The discharge unit 14 judges whether or not the discharge conditions for discharging the product are satisfied. If the discharge conditions are satisfied, the process proceeds to step S210, and if not, the process returns to step S201. Note that if the product has already been discharged, the discharge unit 14 judges that the discharge conditions are not satisfied.

[0077] (Step S210) The discharge unit 14 discharges the product that satisfies the discharge conditions and corresponds to the button selected for purchasing the product. Return to step S201.

[0078] (Step S211) The sound acquisition unit 131 acquires the elapsed time since the first sound information was output or the elapsed time since one button was selected. The sound acquisition unit 131 determines whether or not the elapsed time satisfies a time condition. If the time condition is satisfied, the process returns to step S206, and if not, the process returns to step S201. The time condition is, for example, that the elapsed time is within a threshold value or that the elapsed time is less than a threshold value.

[0079] (Step S212) The discharge unit 14 judges whether or not the discharge conditions for discharging the product are satisfied. If the discharge conditions are satisfied, the process proceeds to step S213, and if not, the process returns to step S201.

[0080] (Step S213) The discharge unit 14 discharges the product that satisfies the discharge conditions and corresponds to the button selected for purchasing the product. Return to step S201.

[0081] In the flowchart of FIG. 2, the process ends when the power is turned off or an interrupt occurs to end the process.

[0082] The following describes specific examples of the operation of the vending machine 2 according to this embodiment. Three specific examples will be described below.

[0083] (Example 1) It is assumed that the storage unit 11 of the vending machine 1 stores the condition management table of Fig. 3. The condition management table is a table that manages a first condition and a second condition. The condition management table manages one or more records having an "ID", "first condition", and "second condition". The "ID" is information that identifies the record.

[0084] "ID=1" in the condition management table indicates that when one button is selected, the first condition is met, first sound information corresponding to the one button is output, and the product corresponding to the one button is purchased, and then N seconds (N is a natural number equal to or greater than 1) have elapsed, and the second condition is met, and second sound information corresponding to the one button is output. "ID=2" indicates that when one button is selected, the first condition is met, first sound information corresponding to the one button is output, and when the product corresponding to the one button is purchased and the one button is further selected, the second condition is met, and second sound information corresponding to the one button is output. "ID=3" indicates that when one button is selected, the first condition is met, first sound information corresponding to the one button is output, and when any button is selected after the selection of the one button, the second condition is met, and second sound information corresponding to the one button, the selected button, or all buttons is output. "ID=4" indicates that when any button is selected, the first condition is met and a first sound information common to all buttons is output, and then when one button is selected, the second condition is met and the second sound information corresponding to that one button is output. "ID=5" indicates that the first condition is always met between 9:00 and 19:00, the first sound information common to all buttons is output, and when one button is selected, the second condition is met and the second sound information corresponding to that one button is output. "ID=6" indicates that the first condition is met when a product is dispensed, the first sound information common to all buttons is output, and then 10 seconds after the product is dispensed, the second condition is met and the second sound information common to all buttons is output.

[0085] It is preferable that the second sound information is output only if the second condition is satisfied within a predetermined time after the first condition is satisfied (for example, after the product is discharged). In other words, although it is not written in the condition management table, it is preferable that the condition "satisfying the second condition within a predetermined time after the first condition is satisfied" is also included.

[0086] In the following, in specific example 1, it is assumed that the installer of the vending machine 1 has configured the vending machine 1 so that the record with "ID=1" in the condition management table is applied. In other words, it is assumed that the storage unit 11 of the vending machine 1 stores a condition identifier (here, the "ID" of the condition management table) that identifies the condition to be applied.

[0087] The sound management unit 111 stores the sound management table of FIG. 4. The sound management table is a table for managing first sound information and second sound information. The first sound information and second sound information correspond to a button identifier. The sound management table manages one or more records having a "button identifier", "first sound information", and "second sound information". The "first sound information" is sound information that is output when a first condition is satisfied. The "second sound information" is sound information that is output when a second condition is satisfied. The first sound information or the second sound information that is paired with a plurality of button identifiers may be the same sound information, but it is preferable that they are different sound information. Note that the first sound information and the second sound information are usually different sound information. In the sound management table of FIG. 4, the first sound information is a file that stores the voice of an animal. The second sound information is audio information that answers the question about what animal the first sound information is. In FIG. 4, the second sound information is expressed as a character string, but the second sound information is audio information of the character string. In FIG. 4, the first sound information is sound information that identifies a question, and the second sound information is sound information that identifies an answer.

[0088] In Example 1, the vending machine 1 is installed in, for example, a zoo. A user visiting the zoo inserts cash and selects the button "B01" to purchase a product from the vending machine 1.

[0089] Next, the vending machine 1 accepts the selection of the button "B01". Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 refers to "ID=1" in the condition management table and determines that the first condition is met. Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 acquires the button identifier "B01" corresponding to the first condition, and acquires a file of the sound of a hippopotamus, which is the first sound information corresponding to the button identifier, from the sound management table (FIG. 4). Next, the sound output unit 15 outputs the acquired first sound information. In other words, the sound output unit 15 outputs the sound of a hippopotamus.

[0090] A user (purchaser) who hears the sound of this hippopotamus will have J to N seconds to guess what animal's voice it is.

[0091] Next, the ejection unit 14 determines that the ejection conditions for ejecting the product are satisfied, and ejects the product corresponding to the button "B01."

[0092] Next, it is assumed that N seconds (for example, 10 seconds) have passed since the product was purchased. Note that after the product was purchased, this may be, for example, after the vending machine 1 outputs a discharge signal or after the user presses a button.

[0093] Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 detects that N seconds have passed since the product was purchased, and determines that the second condition is met. Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 acquires second sound information that pairs with the button identifier "B01" from the sound management table (FIG. 4). Next, the sound output unit 15 outputs the acquired second sound information. That is, the sound output unit 15 outputs a voice saying, "This button was a hippopotamus."

[0094] As described above, in this specific example, when a user purchases a product from the vending machine 1, the user can enjoy a quiz that uses sound.

[0095] (Example 2) It is assumed that the condition management table of Fig. 3 is stored in the storage unit 11 of the vending machine 1. In addition, in specific example 2, it is assumed that the installer of the vending machine 1 has configured the vending machine 1 so that the record with "ID=2" in the condition management table is applied.

[0096] The sound management unit 111 stores the sound management table of FIG. 5. The structure of the sound management table of FIG. 5 is the same as that of the sound management table of FIG. 4. In the sound management table of FIG. 5, the first sound information is a file storing music played at stations. The second sound information is audio information that answers which station the music is playing at. In other words, in FIG. 5, the first sound information is sound information that identifies the question, and the second sound information is sound information that identifies the answer.

[0097] In Example 2, the vending machine 1 is installed in, for example, a railway museum. A user visiting the railway museum inserts cash and selects the button "B01" to purchase a product from the vending machine 1.

[0098] Next, the vending machine 1 accepts the selection of the button "B01". Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 refers to "ID=1" in the condition management table and determines that the first condition is met. Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 acquires the button identifier "B01" corresponding to the first condition, and acquires the music file of Tamachi Station, which is the first sound information corresponding to the button identifier, from the sound management table (FIG. 5). Next, the sound output unit 15 outputs the acquired first sound information. In other words, the sound output unit 15 outputs the music played at Tamachi Station.

[0099] When users (purchasers) hear the hippopotamus's voice, they have to guess which station the music is from.

[0100] Next, the ejection unit 14 determines that the ejection conditions for ejecting the product are satisfied, and ejects the product corresponding to the button "B01."

[0101] Next, it is assumed that the user presses button "B01" within a predetermined time (for example, within 15 seconds) after the selection of button "B01" and the output of the music played at Tamachi Station.

[0102] Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 detects that the button "B01" has been selected and determines that the second condition is satisfied. Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 acquires second sound information paired with the button identifier "B01" from the sound management table (FIG. 5). Next, the sound output unit 15 outputs the acquired second sound information. That is, the sound output unit 15 outputs a voice saying, "This button was Yamanote Line Tamachi Station."

[0103] As described above, in this specific example, when a user purchases a product from the vending machine 1, the user can enjoy a quiz that uses sound.

[0104] In this specific example, if the user presses a button other than the button "B01" after the product is dispensed, the second condition is not satisfied and the second sound information is not output.

[0105] (Example 3) It is assumed that the storage unit 11 of the vending machine 1 stores the condition sound management table of FIG. 6. The condition sound management table is a table that manages sound information corresponding to two or more conditions. The condition sound management table manages two or more records having "step," "condition," and "sound information." In the condition sound management table, it is determined in the order of the step whether or not a condition is satisfied, and if the condition is satisfied, sound information paired with the condition is output. In the condition sound management table (FIG. 6), the condition of step "1" is the first condition, the condition of step "2" is the second condition, and the condition of step "3" is the third condition. Also, the sound information of step "1" is the first sound information, the sound information of step "2" is the second sound information, and the sound information of step "3" is the third sound information.

[0106] In the third embodiment, the vending machine 1 is installed in an event venue, for example.

[0107] It is assumed that a user visiting an event venue makes a payment to purchase a product from vending machine 1, and the product is dispensed. During this process, vending machine 1 outputs a dispense signal.

[0108] Then, the sound acquisition unit 131 of the vending machine 1 determines that the first condition of "Step=1" in the condition sound management table is met. Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 acquires first sound information corresponding to the first condition from the condition sound management table (FIG. 6). Next, the sound output unit 15 outputs the acquired first sound information. In other words, the sound output unit 15 outputs "Thanks, thank you, you picked a good one" and "But there's one thing I want to say!".

[0109] Next, assume that 10 seconds have passed since the product was dispensed. Then, the sound acquisition unit 131 determines that the second condition of "Step=2" in the condition sound management table is met. Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 acquires second sound information corresponding to the second condition from the condition sound management table (FIG. 6). Next, the sound output unit 15 outputs the acquired second sound information. That is, the sound output unit 15 outputs "That drink actually has 100 million calories?"

[0110] The user who heard this makes a comment to the vending machine 1. In other words, the user presses any button on the vending machine 1.

[0111] Next, the vending machine 1 accepts the selection of the button "B25". Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 determines that the third condition of "Step=3" in the condition sound management table is met. Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 acquires third sound information corresponding to the third condition from the condition sound management table (FIG. 6). Next, the sound output unit 15 outputs the acquired third sound information. That is, the sound output unit 15 outputs "What?! Of course not!" and "Here's a free one, take it! That drink actually has 100 million calories!"

[0112] In addition, the vending machine 1 may dispense the product corresponding to the selected button "B25". In addition, if the selection of the button, which is an input from the user to the vending machine 1, is within a threshold time, the vending machine 1 preferably dispenses the product.

[0113] As described above, according to this embodiment, by sequentially outputting two different pieces of sound information, for example, a vending machine with entertainment properties can be provided. Note that sequential output may include a silent period between the output of the two pieces of sound information, or may output a different sound.

[0114] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, by outputting different sounds before and after the selection of one button, it is possible to provide, for example, an entertaining vending machine.

[0115] Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, by outputting different sounds before and after the purchase of a product, it is possible to provide, for example, an entertaining vending machine.

[0116] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, a first sound information is output in response to the selection of a button when purchasing a product, and a second sound information is output in response to the selection of a button after the product has been purchased, thereby providing, for example, an entertaining vending machine.

[0117] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, a first sound information is output in response to the selection of a button when purchasing a product, and a second sound information is output in response to the selection of a button within a predetermined time after the purchase of the product, thereby providing, for example, an entertaining vending machine.

[0118] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, by outputting sound information of a question before a button is selected, and outputting sound information of the answer to the question after the button is selected, it is possible to provide, for example, a vending machine that allows the enjoyment of a quiz.

[0119] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to provide, for example, entertainment-oriented functions only when appropriate.

[0120] The process in this embodiment may be realized by software. This software may be distributed by software download or the like. This software may be recorded on a recording medium such as a CD-ROM and distributed. This also applies to other embodiments in this specification. The software for realizing the vending machine 1 in this embodiment is the following program. That is, this program is a program for causing a computer that can access a sound management unit in which at least two different pieces of related sound information, that is, first sound information and second sound information, are stored in association with each of two or more buttons, to function as a sound acquisition unit that refers to the sound management unit, acquires the first sound information corresponding to one button when a first condition is satisfied, acquires the second sound information corresponding to the one button when a second condition is satisfied after the first condition is satisfied, and outputs the first sound information acquired by the sound acquisition unit, and outputs the second sound information acquired by the sound acquisition unit after outputting the first sound information.

[0121] (Embodiment 2) In this embodiment, a vending machine having a so-called musical instrument function is described, in which sound information of different sounds is stored in correspondence with each of two or more buttons, and when a button is pressed within a specified period after a product is purchased, a sound is output using the sound information corresponding to that button.

[0122] In this embodiment, a vending machine having a performance assistance function, such as blinking lights on the buttons of the vending machine according to information on a sequence of notes in a musical piece, will be described.

[0123] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a vending machine that outputs a sound only when a predetermined condition is satisfied will be described. Note that the condition is, for example, a condition related to the time period of the current time.

[0124] 8 is a block diagram of a vending machine 2 in the present embodiment. The vending machine 2 includes a storage unit 21, a selection receiving unit 12, a processing unit 23, a discharge unit 14, and a sound output unit 25. The storage unit 21 includes a sound management unit 211. The processing unit 23 includes a sound acquisition unit 131 and a change unit 232.

[0125] Various types of information are stored in the storage unit 21. The various types of information include sound information and music information, which will be described later.

[0126] The sound management unit 211 stores two or more pieces of sound information. Each of the two or more pieces of sound information corresponds to a different button on the vending machine 1. The content of the sound information does not matter. However, each of the two or more pieces of sound information is information on sounds that are units such as "do", "re", "mi", "fa", "sol", "la", "si", "do", etc., and it is preferable that the information is information on sounds that correspond to the keys of a piano, for example.

[0127] It is preferable that music information is stored in the sound management unit 211. Music information is information that identifies a song. Music information is, for example, a set of two or more button identifiers that have an order. Music information may also be, for example, a set of two or more pieces of sound information that have an order. However, the sound information and the button must correspond to each other. In other words, the music information stores two or more pieces of sound information so as to identify the order in which the pieces of sound information compose one song.

[0128] Here, the selection receiving unit 12 sequentially receives the selection of two or more buttons after the product is discharged.

[0129] The processing unit 23 performs various types of processing. The various types of processing are, for example, processing performed by the sound acquisition unit 131 and the modification unit 232.

[0130] The change unit 232 makes the display of each of the two or more buttons corresponding to each of the two or more pieces of sound information different from other buttons according to the order of the two or more pieces of sound information specified by the music information. Note that the buttons are usually buttons that the vending machine 2 has. Also, following the order of the two or more pieces of sound information means, for example, following the order of the two or more button identifiers that the music information has.

[0131] The change unit 232, for example, sequentially lights up the buttons identified by the two or more button identifiers contained in the music information. Each of the two or more buttons held by the vending machine 2 is equipped with, for example, an LED that lights up the button. The change unit 232, for example, sequentially changes the display mode of the buttons identified by the two or more button identifiers contained in the music information on a display on which two or more buttons are displayed to a more conspicuous mode. The more conspicuous mode is, for example, lighting up the button, changing the background color of the button, making the button larger, etc.

[0132] The sound output unit 25 refers to the sound management unit 211, acquires sound information corresponding to each of the two or more buttons accepted by the selection accepting unit 12 within a threshold time after the product is discharged, and outputs the sound information in sequence.

[0133] It is preferable that the sound output unit 25 outputs sound information only when a predetermined condition is satisfied.

[0134] The predetermined condition is, for example, the condition related to the time zone of the current time as described above.The predetermined condition is, for example, the condition related to the environment as described above.

[0135] The storage unit 21 and the sound management unit 211 are preferably non-volatile recording media, but may also be realized as volatile recording media.

[0136] There is no restriction on the process by which information is stored in the storage unit 21, etc. For example, information may be stored in the storage unit 21, etc. via a recording medium, information transmitted via a communication line, etc. may be stored in the storage unit 21, etc., or information inputted via an input device may be stored in the storage unit 21, etc.

[0137] The processing unit 23 and the change unit 232 can usually be realized by a processor, a memory, etc. The processing procedure of the processing unit 23, etc. is usually realized by software, and the software is recorded in a recording medium such as a ROM. However, it may be realized by hardware (dedicated circuit). The processor may be a CPU, MPU, GPU, etc., and the type is not important.

[0138] The sound output unit 25 may or may not include a speaker. The sound output unit 25 may be realized by speaker driver software or by a speaker and a speaker driver software.

[0139] Next, a first operation example of the vending machine 2 will be described with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 9. The first operation example of the vending machine 2 is a case in which the vending machine 2 has a function of a musical instrument.

[0140] (Step S901) The discharge unit 14 judges whether or not the discharge conditions for discharging the product are satisfied. If the discharge conditions are satisfied, the process proceeds to step S902, and if not, the process returns to step S901.

[0141] (Step S902) The ejection unit 14 acquires a button identifier of a button that corresponds to the ejection condition and that is selected by the user.

[0142] (Step S903) The ejection unit 14 ejects the product stored in the column corresponding to the button identifier acquired in step S902.

[0143] (Step S904) After the product is discharged, the selection receiving unit 12 judges whether or not a button selection has been received. If a button selection has been received, the process proceeds to step S905, and if not, the process proceeds to step S907.

[0144] (Step S905) The sound acquisition unit 131 acquires a button identifier corresponding to the selection accepted in step S904. Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 acquires, from the sound management unit 211, sound information paired with the button identifier.

[0145] (Step S906) The sound output unit 25 outputs the sound information acquired in step S905. Then, the process returns to step S904.

[0146] (Step S907) The sound acquisition unit 131 judges whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the product was discharged. If the predetermined time has elapsed, the process returns to step S901, and if the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process returns to step S904.

[0147] In the flowchart of FIG. 9, the process ends when the power is turned off or an interrupt occurs to end the process.

[0148] Next, a second operation example of the vending machine 2 will be described with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 10. In the flowchart of Fig. 10, the explanation of the same steps as those in the flowchart of Fig. 9 will be omitted. The second operation example of the vending machine 2 is a case where the vending machine 2 functions as a musical instrument having a musical performance assistance function.

[0149] (Step S1001) The change unit 232 acquires music information paired with the button identifier acquired in step S902 from the sound management unit 211. If the music information managed by the sound management unit 211 does not correspond to the button identifier, the change unit 232 acquires from the sound management unit 211 one piece of music information or music information randomly selected from two or more pieces of music information.

[0150] (Step S1002) The changing unit 232 assigns 1 to the counter i.

[0151] (Step S1003) The change unit 232 acquires the i-th button identifier from the music information acquired in step S1001.

[0152] (Step S1004) The change unit 232 changes the button identified by the button identifier acquired in step S1003. For example, the change unit 232 illuminates the button identified by the button identifier acquired in step S1003.

[0153] (Step S1005) Selection receiving unit 12 judges whether or not a button selection has been received. If a button selection has been received, the process proceeds to step S1006, and if not, the process proceeds to step S1008.

[0154] (Step S1006) The sound acquisition unit 131 acquires a button identifier corresponding to the selection accepted in step S1005. Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 acquires, from the sound management unit 211, sound information paired with the button identifier.

[0155] (Step S1007) The sound output unit 25 outputs the sound information acquired in step S1006. Then, the process proceeds to step S1009.

[0156] (Step S1008) The change unit 232 judges whether to proceed to the next sound. If it proceeds to the next sound, the process proceeds to step S1009, and if it does not proceed to the next sound, the process returns to step S1005. Note that the process proceeds to the next sound when, for example, a predetermined time or more has elapsed since the change unit 232 changed the button, or when the selection of the button has been accepted.

[0157] (Step S1009) The changing unit 232 increments the counter i by one.

[0158] (Step S1010) The change unit 232 judges whether or not the i-th button identifier is not present in the music information (whether or not the music has ended). If the music has ended, the process returns to step S901, and if the music has not ended, the process returns to step S1003.

[0159] 10, if the button selection accepted in step S1005 is not the selection of the button changed in step S1004, sound information does not need to be output. That is, the sound acquisition unit 131 determines whether the button selection accepted in step S1005 is the selection of the button changed in step S1004, and if it is determined that it is not the selection, the process may proceed to step S1008.

[0160] In the flowchart of FIG. 10, the process ends when the power is turned off or an interrupt occurs to end the process.

[0161] Specific examples of the operation of the vending machine 2 in this embodiment will be described below. Two specific examples will be described here. Specific Example 1 is a case where the vending machine 2 has the function of a musical instrument (e.g., a piano). That is, in Specific Example 1, the vending machine 2 performs the operation shown in the flowchart of FIG. 9. Specific Example 2 is a case where the vending machine 2 has a music performance assistance function. That is, in Specific Example 2, the vending machine 2 performs the operation shown in the flowchart of FIG. 10.

[0162] The sound management unit 211 of the vending machine 2 stores a sound management table shown in FIG. 11. The sound management table is a table that manages sound information corresponding to buttons. The sound management table stores two or more records having a "button identifier" and "sound information." The "sound information" is a representation of a sound, but in reality it is, for example, a file that stores the sound.

[0163] The sound management unit 211 stores a music management table shown in FIG. 12. The music management table is a table for managing one or more songs. In the music management table, music information is managed in association with each of two or more buttons. The music management table manages two or more records having a "button identifier," "song name," and "song information." The "song information" here is a collection of two or more button identifiers that have an order. Each button identifier in the "song information" may have information specifying the time for which the button is to be lit. The "song information" may have information specifying the time between button identifiers. Such information may represent the length of each sound.

[0164] (Example 1) It is assumed that a user purchases a product from vending machine 2 and the product is dispensed from vending machine 2.

[0165] Next, the provision of the musical instrument function in the vending machine 2 begins. Then, assume that the user presses the button "B01" on the vending machine 2. Then, the selection receiving unit 12 of the vending machine 2 receives the selection of the button. Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 obtains the button identifier "B01" corresponding to the received selection. Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 obtains the sound information "do" that pairs with the button identifier from the sound management unit 211. Next, the sound output unit 25 outputs the obtained sound information "do".

[0166] Next, assume that the user presses button "B02" on the vending machine 2. Then, the selection receiving unit 12 of the vending machine 2 receives the selection of the button. Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 obtains the button identifier "B02" corresponding to the received selection. Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 obtains sound information "Re" that pairs with the button identifier from the sound management unit 211. Next, the sound output unit 25 outputs the obtained sound information "Re".

[0167] The above process is repeated for one minute after the product is dispensed. In other words, the vending machine 2 here gives the user who purchased the product the right to use the vending machine 1 as a musical instrument for one minute.

[0168] As described above, in this specific example, by purchasing a product from the vending machine 2, the user can be provided with the functionality of a musical instrument.

[0169] (Example 2) Assume that a user presses the button "B01" on the vending machine 2 to purchase a product, and the product corresponding to the button "B01" is dispensed from the vending machine 2. During this time, the dispenser 14 obtains the button identifier "B01" of the button selected by the user, which is a button corresponding to the dispense condition.

[0170] Next, the vending machine 2 functions as a musical instrument having a music performance assistance function. That is, the change unit 232 acquires the music information "B01, B03, B04, B03, . . . " that is paired with the acquired button identifier "B01" from the music management table (FIG. 12).

[0171] Next, the change unit 232 acquires the first button identifier "B01" of the music information, and lights up the button identified by the button identifier "B01." Then, the button "B01" of the vending machine 2 lights up.

[0172] Next, the user presses the illuminated button "B01". Then, the selection receiving unit 12 receives the pressing of the button "B01". Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 acquires the button identifier "B01" corresponding to the received selection. Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 acquires the sound information "do" that pairs with the button identifier "B01" from the sound management table (FIG. 11). Next, the sound output unit 25 outputs the acquired sound information "do".

[0173] Next, the change unit 232 acquires the second button identifier "B03" of the music information, and lights up the button identified by the button identifier "B03." Then, the button "B03" of the vending machine 1 lights up.

[0174] Next, the user presses the illuminated button "B03". Then, the selection receiving unit 12 receives the pressing of the button "B03". Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 acquires the button identifier "B03" corresponding to the received selection. Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 acquires the sound information "Mi" that pairs with the button identifier "B03" from the sound management table (FIG. 11). Next, the sound output unit 25 outputs the acquired sound information "Mi".

[0175] Next, the change unit 232 acquires the third button identifier "B04" of the music information, and lights up the button identified by the button identifier "B04." Then, the button "B04" of the vending machine 1 lights up.

[0176] Next, the user presses the illuminated button "B04". Then, the selection receiving unit 12 receives the pressing of the button "B04". Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 acquires the button identifier "B04" corresponding to the received selection. Next, the sound acquisition unit 131 acquires the sound information "Fa" that pairs with the button identifier "B04" from the sound management table (FIG. 11). Next, the sound output unit 25 outputs the acquired sound information "Fa".

[0177] The vending machine 2 repeats the above process until it acquires the last button identifier contained in the music information and outputs the sound information.

[0178] As described above, in this specific example, by purchasing a product from the vending machine 2, the user can be provided with a musical instrument playing assistance function.

[0179] As described above, according to this embodiment, the functions of a musical instrument can be provided to a user after purchasing a product.

[0180] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, after purchasing the product, a performance assistance function can be provided to allow the user to easily play a piece of music.

[0181] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to provide, for example, entertainment-oriented functions only when appropriate.

[0182] The software for realizing the vending machine 2 in this embodiment is the following program. In other words, this program causes a computer that can access a sound management unit in which sound information is stored in association with each of two or more buttons to function as a selection receiving unit that sequentially receives selections of two or more buttons after a product is dispensed, and a sound output unit that references the sound management unit and sequentially outputs sound information corresponding to each of the two or more buttons accepted by the selection receiving unit within a threshold time after the product is dispensed.

[0183] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are possible, and it goes without saying that these modifications are also included within the scope of the present invention. [Industrial Applicability]

[0184] As described above, the vending machine 1 according to the present invention has an effect of being able to provide entertainment value by using the sound output function of the vending machine, and is useful as a vending machine that sells beverages, etc. [Explanation of symbols]

[0185] 1, 2 Vending machine 11, 21 Storage area 12 Selection reception section 13, 23 Processing section 14 Discharge section 15, 25 Sound output section 111, 211 Sound Management Department 131 Sound acquisition section 232 Changes

Claims

1. a sound acquisition unit that refers to a sound management unit in which at least two different pieces of related sound information, that is, first sound information and second sound information, are stored in association with each of two or more buttons, and acquires the first sound information corresponding to one of the buttons when a first condition is satisfied, and acquires the second sound information corresponding to the one of the buttons when a second condition is satisfied after the first condition is satisfied; a sound output unit that outputs the first sound information acquired by the sound acquisition unit, and outputs the second sound information acquired by the sound acquisition unit after outputting the first sound information.

2. a selection receiving unit for receiving a selection of one of the buttons, The sound acquisition unit is 2. The vending machine according to claim 1, further comprising a sound output unit that outputs the first sound information before the selection receiving unit receives the selection, and outputs the second sound information corresponding to the one button after the selection receiving unit receives the selection.

3. 2. The vending machine according to claim 1, wherein said selection of said one button is selection of a button for purchasing a product corresponding to said one button.

4. the selection of the one button is a second selection, The selection receiving unit is Accept the first choice, which is the selection of a button to purchase the product; The sound output unit is The vending machine according to claim 2, wherein the first sound information is output when the selection receiving unit receives the first selection, and the second sound information is output when the selection receiving unit receives the second selection after receiving the first selection.

5. The sound output unit is The vending machine according to claim 4 , wherein the second sound information is output only when the selection receiving unit receives the second selection within a predetermined time after receiving the first selection.

6. The vending machine according to claim 1 , wherein the first sound information is sound information that identifies a question, and the second sound information is sound information that identifies an answer to the question.

7. a selection receiving unit that sequentially receives selection of two or more buttons after the product is discharged; a sound acquisition unit that refers to a sound management unit in which sound information is stored in association with each of the two or more buttons, and sequentially acquires sound information corresponding to each of the two or more buttons accepted by the selection acceptance unit within a threshold time after the product is discharged; a sound output unit that sequentially outputs each of the two or more pieces of sound information acquired by the sound acquisition unit.

8. The sound management unit includes: The sound information corresponding to each of the two or more buttons is stored so as to specify the order of the two or more pieces of sound information constituting one piece of music; The vending machine according to claim 7, further comprising a changing unit which changes the display of each of the two or more buttons corresponding to each of the two or more pieces of sound information to be different from other buttons in accordance with the order of the two or more pieces of sound information.

9. The sound output unit is The vending machine according to claim 1 , wherein the first sound information and the second sound information are output only when a predetermined condition is satisfied.

10. 10. The vending machine according to claim 9, wherein the predetermined condition is a condition related to a time period of a current time.

11. A sound output method in a vending machine, the method being realized by a sound management unit in which at least two different pieces of related sound information, that is, first sound information and second sound information, are stored in association with each of two or more buttons, a sound acquisition unit, and a sound output unit, a sound acquisition step in which the sound acquisition unit refers to the sound management unit, and acquires the first sound information corresponding to one of the buttons when a first condition is satisfied, and acquires the second sound information corresponding to the one of the buttons when a second condition is satisfied after the first condition is satisfied; a sound output step in which the sound output unit outputs the first sound information acquired by the sound acquisition unit, and after outputting the first sound information, outputs the second sound information acquired by the sound acquisition unit.

12. A sound output method for a vending machine, the method being realized by a sound management unit in which sound information is stored in association with each of two or more buttons, a selection acceptance unit, a sound acquisition unit, and a sound output unit, a selection receiving step in which the selection receiving unit sequentially receives selection of two or more buttons after the product is discharged; a sound acquisition step in which the sound acquisition unit refers to a sound management unit in which sound information is stored in association with each of the two or more buttons, and sequentially acquires sound information corresponding to each of the two or more buttons accepted by the selection acceptance unit within a threshold time after the product is discharged; a sound output step in which the sound output unit sequentially outputs each of the two or more pieces of sound information acquired by the sound acquisition unit.

13. A computer that can access a sound management unit in which at least two different pieces of related sound information, that is, first sound information and second sound information, are stored in association with each of two or more buttons, a sound acquisition unit that refers to the sound management unit, and acquires the first sound information corresponding to one of the buttons when a first condition is satisfied, and acquires the second sound information corresponding to the one of the buttons when a second condition is satisfied after the first condition is satisfied; A program for functioning as a sound output unit that outputs the first sound information acquired by the sound acquisition unit, and, after outputting the first sound information, outputs the second sound information acquired by the sound acquisition unit.

14. a computer that can access a sound management unit in which sound information is stored in association with each of two or more buttons; a selection receiving unit that sequentially receives selection of two or more buttons after the product is discharged; a sound acquisition unit that refers to the sound management unit and sequentially acquires sound information corresponding to each of the two or more buttons accepted by the selection acceptance unit within a threshold time after the product is discharged; A program for causing the sound acquisition unit to function as a sound output unit that sequentially outputs each of the two or more pieces of sound information acquired by the sound acquisition unit.

Images