Container, food / drink distribution device, and food / drink distribution method

Abstract

To provide a technique and a process which, when an outer container is collected from a user who purchases food / drink, allows distribution of the food / drink by enclosing an inner container for holding the food / drink within the outer container on the spot.SOLUTION: A container 1 comprises an inner container 3 for sealing off and holding food / drink, and an outer container 2 into which the inner container for distributing the food / drink to a user U can be inserted. The outer container is used for inserting the inner container therein correspondingly to collection of the outer container from the user. A food / drink distribution device 101 for distributing the food / drink to the container 1 comprises an outer container collection part 205 for receiving the outer container collected from the user, a container insertion part 206 for inserting the inner container containing the food / drink desired by the user into the outer container, and a container output part 207 for outputting the container where the inner container containing the food / drink is inserted into the outer container.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a container, a food and beverage dispensing device, and a food and beverage dispensing method.

Background Art

[0002] Regarding a beverage container including an outer container, a fitting, and a replacement part having a bag body, the technique of Patent Document 1 below is known.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] There is a situation where a food container including an external container collected from a user who purchases food (including beverages; hereinafter referred to as food and beverages) and an internal container for holding food and beverages that can be distributed in combination with the external container on the spot has not been proposed.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of such a situation, and an object thereof is to provide a technology and a process capable of enclosing an internal container for holding food and beverages in the external container on the spot and distributing the food and beverages in response to collecting the external container from a user who purchases the food and beverages.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To achieve the above object, a container according to an aspect of the present invention includes an internal container for sealing and holding food and beverages, an external container into which the internal container can be inserted for distributing the food and beverages to a user, and The outer container is configured to insert the inner container in response to receiving the outer container back from the user.

[0007] Also, to achieve the above object, a food and drink dispensing device according to one aspect of the present invention includes an inner container for sealing and holding food and drink, an outer container into which the inner container can be inserted to distribute the food and drink to a user, and the outer container is configured to insert the inner container in response to receiving the outer container back from the user. A food and drink dispensing device for distributing food and drink to a container, comprising: outer container recovery means for receiving the outer container recovered from the user; container insertion means for inserting the inner container holding the food and drink desired by the user into the outer container; container output means for outputting the container in a state where the inner container holding the food and drink is inserted into the outer container. and

[0008] Also, to achieve the above object, a food and drink dispensing method according to one aspect of the present invention is a method corresponding to the food and drink dispensing device according to one aspect of the present invention.

Advantages of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, in response to receiving the outer container back from a user who purchases food and drink, the inner container for holding the food and drink can be enclosed in the outer container on the spot to distribute the food and drink.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] First, before explaining this embodiment with reference to the drawings, the background leading to the present invention will be described.

[0012] In the past few decades, the packaging of food and beverages has evolved from reusable durable packaging made of durable materials (such as glass, metal, and ceramics) to mainly disposable single-use packaging made of various materials (such as paper and plastic) in order to minimize costs. Due to this change, vending machines (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as vending machines) and dispensers for food and beverages using these single-use solutions have been developed. At the same time, this evolution has caused some environmental problems regarding the waste of single-use packaging. Among these, there is no vending machine system suitable for reusable containers or bottles, and it is not guaranteed that clean and hygienic food and beverage storage can be maintained every time they are refilled. Today, in order to limit such environmental problems, new reusable containers have been invented, such as US Patent US 10781033B1 and WO 2021 / 257741 A1 based on PCT applications, which enable consumers to minimize their environmental impact. While this new generation of packaging makes it possible to limit the user's environmental footprint, the possibility of refilling is extremely limited, and there is a potential for hygienic problems when the container is reused without being properly cleaned. Furthermore, when these containers are refilled, the residues can affect the flavor and taste consistency. These containers are generally more difficult to clean due to the components of the neck and cap, as well as the parts of the food and beverage containers. Therefore, the ability to use reusable bottles for refilling different contents without going through the cleaning process is limited due to residues, bacteria, and contamination of taste and odor. In the business of dispensers and vending machines, the packaging is mostly limited to disposable packaging such as bottles, cans, and cups. The main reasons for this situation are as follows. That is, (1) a sanitary constraint where single-use packaging is considered clean due to new minimum risk prevention principles, and the risk is limited to a minimum. Vending machines and dispensers do not have a cleaning function and / or the packaging used has not been initially cleaned. (2) The design of reusable bottles and containers prohibits their use in vending machines and restricts their use in dispenser systems.

[0013] To address the above problems, the present invention enables the use of an innovative modular integrated reusable container having the functions of a flask bottle, a double-walled insulated bottle, and / or a cup. More specifically, the present invention provides a technology that can enclose an internal container for holding food and beverages in an external container on-site and distribute the food and beverages in response to collecting the external container from a user who purchases food and beverages. Furthermore, the following measures have been proposed to solve this problem. That is, (1) proposing a new process for delivering food and beverages to consumers (the embodiment shown on the right side of FIG. 1). (2) Proposing a new generation of vending machines (the food and beverage dispensing device 101 shown in FIG. 7). (2-a) Providing food and beverages enclosed in reusable containers. (2-b) Removing contamination by replacing or cleaning the container cap to ensure cleanliness. (2-c) Removing contamination from reusable containers or delivering them by washing. (3) Proposing a new container design (such as FIG. 2) that enables the enclosure of specially designed food / beverage containers.

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing an overview of a process related to a food and beverage dispensing device according to an embodiment of the present invention together with an overview of a vending machine process for comparison. Here, the food and beverage dispensing device is assumed to include the above-described dispenser and vending machine (vending machine). It should be noted that FIG. 1 can also be rephrased as a summary of the packaging flowchart.

[0015] As the current standard process shown on the left side of FIG. 1, in step S101 (Container production) shown as "Container", the containers (bottles, cups, etc.) to be used are manufactured. In the manufacturing process of the containers, standard food hygiene concepts and procedures are applied.

[0015] In step S102 (Storage and Transportation) shown as "Storage and Transportation", for storage and transportation, the containers are protected and placed in a controlled environment to avoid contamination. In step S103 (Usage in dispensing Machine) shown as "Usage in vending machine", the containers are used in the dispenser / vending machine. In step S104 (Consumer) shown as "Consumer", the containers are used for customer supply. Also, in step S105 (Waste) shown as "Waste", the containers are discarded. Note that in the dispenser / vending machine, the method of protecting the containers remains unchanged. In the current standard process, the containers that have already been used are not washed, so they cannot meet the good hygiene requirements for food and beverages. Therefore, it is necessary to provide an improved process so that reusable containers can be used.

[0016] In the process of this embodiment shown on the right side of FIG. 1, in order from the top of the figure, there are step S1 (Container production) shown as "Container", step S2 (Cleaning) shown as "Cleaning", step S3 (Storage and Transportation) shown as "Storage and Transportation", step S4 (Cleaning in dispensing Machine) shown as "Cleaning in vending machine", step S5 (storage in dispensing Machine) shown as "Storage in vending machine", step S6 (Consumer) shown as "Consumer", and step S7 (Recollection) shown as "Collection". As shown in the figure, there are cases where steps S1, S2, S3, S5, S6, and S7 are sequentially passed through, and cases where steps S1, S3, S4, S5, S6, and S7 are sequentially passed through. In step S7, there are cases of shifting to step S2 and cases of shifting to step S4. The steps for cleaning are carried out (1) immediately after the manufacture of the container, or (2) in a food and beverage dispensing device that enables the reuse of the container. Alternatively, the steps for cleaning can also be added after the collection of the replaceable food and beverage module container. It can be cleaned in a dedicated place or directly in a food and beverage dispensing device (dispenser (dispensing machine), dispenser / vending machine). When the container is cleaned in a dedicated place, step S3 indicated as "storage / transport" needs to meet the food and beverage safety procedures for keeping the container clean. The steps for cleaning need to remove the food and beverage, dirt, and odor that may remain in the packaging container and minimize the microbiological load in accordance with the hygiene and health regulations. Therefore, a warm water process using a detergent is usually applied to reach a satisfactory cleaning level.

[0017] To enable the process of this embodiment, it is necessary to technically adapt the container (bottle, cup, etc.) so that it can be used in this new process. The container is, for example, a reusable modular cup / bottle system for a dispenser, which allows a part of the system to be used in a dispenser or enables individual cleaning of each component or assembly. The cleaning process and / or sterilization can be introduced as a main step for one or more container components in the dispenser or in a dedicated place.

[0018] The following describes the outline of the new reusable container. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the container according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Container 1 is configured to include an outer container 2 and an inner container 3. In this embodiment, the outer container 2 has an outer cap portion 4, an outer main body portion 5, and a base cap portion 6. The inner container 3 is configured to include an inner main body portion 3a and an inner lid 3c. The outer cap portion 4 is a so-called outer lid and is adapted to enable pouring and / or drinking. Also, the outer cap portion 4 is adapted to be attached to either the inner container 3 or the outer main body portion 5. The inner container 3 is adapted to be attached inside the outer main body portion 5 by a simple connection mechanism (such as screwing, clipping, etc.). The inner container 3 is made of a material suitable for washing (for example, polymers (PET, PP, PE (low density, high density), PA, etc.)), ceramics (glass, pottery, aluminum trioxide, etc.), metals (stainless steel, aluminum, etc.). The inner container 3 is made of a food contact material that meets the regulatory requirements. The inner container 3 and the outer main body portion 5 keep a sufficient distance between the outer surface of the inner container 3 and the inner surface of the outer cap portion 4 to avoid heat conduction from the inner container 3 to the outer main body portion 5, thereby protecting the user and keeping food and beverages warm for a longer time.

[0020] Each component of the container 1 will be described in more detail.

[0021] As an option, the outer cap portion 4 allows for different mouthpiece / drink piece designs. That is, a straw, a sports lid, a sippy lid, a nipple cap, a flat cap, etc. are possible. The outer cap portion 4 is made of a material that is approved for contact with food. Also, the outer cap portion 4 is made of a material that can withstand temperatures from 10°C to 100°C. More preferably, it is -10°C to 70°C. Also, the outer cap portion 4 is made of a material that has resistance to detergents. More specifically, a material that has resistance to the detergents used in the container washing process is adopted. The outer cap portion 4 is attached to the inner container 3 or the outer main body portion 5 by a leak - free system as follows. That is, the outer cap portion 4 is attached by (a) twist / screw, (b) clipping, (c) pressing with a rubber / silicone ring / band. The outer cap portion 4 holds the inner lid 3c in a predetermined position and provides a connection portion for opening the inner lid 3c. The outer cap portion 4 can be equipped with a unique identifier. By equipping with a unique identifier, the outer cap portion 4 can track and trace all processes such as usage status and cleaning status. Specifically, it can use various technologies such as (a) RFID, (b) NFC tag, (c) Bluetooth (registered trademark), (d) barcode, (e) QR code (registered trademark), etc. (including registered trademarks).

[0022] The inner container 3 is made of a material that is recognized to be in contact with food. Also, the inner container 3 is made of a material that can withstand temperatures from 10°C to 100°C. More preferably, it is - 10°C to 70°C. Also, the inner container 3 is made of a material that has resistance to detergents. More specifically, it is made of a material that has resistance to the detergents used in the container cleaning process. The inner container 3 is attached to the outer cap portion 4 or the outer main body portion 5 by a leak - free system as follows. That is, the inner container 3 is attached by (a) twist / screw, (b) clipping, (c) pressing with a rubber / silicone ring / band. The inner container 3 is configured such that a sufficient distance is maintained between this inner surface (the inner surface of the inner container 3) and the outer main body portion 5. In other words, the container 1 has a distance - maintaining portion (described later) so that a sufficient distance is maintained between the outer surface of the inner container 3 and the inner surface of the outer main body portion 5. The reason for maintaining the sufficient distance is to protect the user by avoiding heat conduction from the inner container 3 to the outer main body 5, and to keep food and beverages warm for a longer time. The sufficient distance is between 1 mm and 10 mm, more preferably between 2 mm and 5 mm. After ensuring the sufficient distance, the inner container 3 can have various volumes.

[0023] Here, the various volumes will be described with reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of inner containers with various volumes for the inner container of FIG. 2. Note that because the sufficient distance is small, the figure is exaggerated.

[0024] The inner container 3 shown in FIG. 3 has an inner main body 3a housed in the outer main body 5 and an exposed portion 3b exposed outside from the opening of the outer main body 5. The exposed portion 3b corresponds to the "grip area" described later (it is assumed that not only the exposed portion 3b but also the entire inner main body 3a including it may be the "grip area"). The inner container 3 shown in FIG. 3(a) is formed with a volume such that the distance between the outer surface of the inner main body 3a and the inner surface of the outer main body 5 is maintained at 1 mm. The inner container 3 shown in FIG. 3(b) is formed with a volume such that the distance between the outer surface of the inner main body 3a and the inner surface of the outer main body 5 is maintained between 2 mm and 5 mm. The inner container 3 shown in FIG. 3(c) is formed with a volume such that the distance between the outer surface of the inner main body 3a and the inner surface of the outer main body 5 is maintained at 10 mm.

[0025] Returning to FIG. 2, the inner container 3 is capable of attaching a unique identifier. By attaching the unique identifier, the inner container 3 can track and trace all processes such as usage status and cleaning status. Specifically, (a) RFID, (b) NFC tag, (c) Bluetooth (registered trademark), (d) barcode, (e) QR code (registered trademark), etc. (including registered trademarks), various technologies can be used. The inner container 3 has a gripping area to enable the user to lift it in the housed state in the external main body 5.

[0026] The external main body 5 is made of a material that is recognized to be in contact with food. Also, the external main body 5 is made of a material that can withstand temperatures from 10°C to 100°C. More preferably, it is -10°C to 70°C. Also, the external main body 5 is made of a material that has resistance to detergents. More specifically, a material that has resistance to the detergents used in the container cleaning process is adopted. The external main body 5 is attached to at least the inner container 3 by a leak - free system as follows. That is, the external main body 5 is attached by (a) twist / screw, (b) clipping, (c) pressing with a rubber / silicone ring / band. The external main body 5 is configured such that a sufficient distance is maintained between this outer surface (the outer surface of the external main body 5) and the inner surface of the inner container 3. In other words, the container 1 has a distance - maintaining portion (described later) to maintain a sufficient distance between the outer surface of the inner container 3 and the inner surface of the external main body 5. The reason for maintaining the above - mentioned sufficient distance is to protect the user by avoiding heat conduction from the inner container 3 to the external main body 5 and to keep food and beverages warm at a warm temperature for a longer time. The above - mentioned sufficient distance is between 1 mm and 10 mm, and more preferably between 2 mm and 5 mm. After ensuring the above sufficient distance, the external main body 5 can take several shapes and forms to enable brand marketing.

[0027] Here, the shapes and forms for enabling the above brand marketing will be described with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example in which the external main body part in FIG. 2 takes several shapes and forms to enable brand marketing. FIG. 4 can be variously handled and adapted to cope with various use cases (for example, a rugged exterior for use in a harsh environment). Note that because the above sufficient distance is small, the figure is exaggerated. Here, although not particularly limited, for example, it is assumed that the entire external main body 5 is a "grip area".

[0028] The external main body 5 shown in FIG. 4(a) is formed in a shape having a constriction at the center in the axial direction. This constriction may be at the upper part as shown in FIG. 4(b) or at the lower part as shown in FIG. 4(c). Returning to FIG. 2, the external main body 5 can be fitted with a unique identifier. By fitting a unique identifier, the external main body 5 can track and trace all processes such as the usage status and the cleaning status. Specifically, various technologies such as (a) RFID, (b) NFC tag, (c) Bluetooth (registered trademark), (d) barcode, (e) QR code (registered trademark), etc. (including registered trademarks) can be used. The external main body 5 has a grip area for enabling implementation such as being held by the user.

[0029] The base cap portion 6 is made of a material that is approved for contact with food. Also, the base cap portion 6 is made of a material that can withstand temperatures from 10°C to 100°C. More preferably, it is -10°C to 70°C. Further, the base cap portion 6 is made of a material that has resistance to detergents. More specifically, a material that has resistance to the detergents used in the container washing process is employed. The base cap portion 6 is attached to the external body portion 5 by a leak - free system as follows. That is, the base cap portion 6 is adapted to be attached by (a) twist / screw, (b) clipping, (c) pressing with a rubber / silicone ring / band. After ensuring the above - mentioned sufficient distance, the base cap portion 6 can take several shapes and forms to enable brand marketing (not shown in the figure). The base cap portion 6 can be equipped with a unique identifier. By attaching a unique identifier, the external body portion 5 can track and trace all processes such as the usage status and cleaning status. Specifically, various technologies such as (a) RFID, (b) NFC tag, (c) Bluetooth (registered trademark), (d) barcode, (e) QR code (registered trademark), etc. (including registered trademarks) can be used. The base cap portion 6 also ensures the structure of the container 1 and is designed to maintain a minimum wall thickness according to the material used. It is assumed that the base cap portion 6 can be equipped with the following. That is, various items such as (a) computer memory, (b) speaker, (c) battery pack, (d) timer, (e) light, etc. can be additionally equipped.

[0030] In the above description, the materials suitable for cleaning (for example, polymers (PET, PP, PE (low density, high density), PA, etc.), ceramics (glass, pottery, aluminum trioxide, etc.), metals (stainless steel, aluminum, etc.)) were applied to the inner container 3, but shall naturally also be applied to the outer container 2.

[0031] Next, with reference to FIG. 5, the configuration of a food and drink distribution system to which the food and drink distribution apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied will be described. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a food and drink distribution system to which the food and drink distribution apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0032] The food and drink distribution system shown in FIG. 5 is configured to include a food and drink distribution apparatus 101, a user terminal 102, and a service management server 103. The food and drink distribution apparatus 101, the user terminal 102, and the service management server 103 are interconnected via a network N such as the Internet.

[0033] The food and drink distribution apparatus 101 is an apparatus configured to be able to use an innovative modular integrated reusable container having functions of a flask bottle, a heat-insulating double-walled bottle, and / or a cup. More specifically, in response to collecting an outer container from a user U who purchases food and drink, an inner container for holding the food and drink in the outer container is enclosed on-site, and the food and drink can be distributed in the container 1.

[0034] The user terminal 102 is an information processing apparatus operated by the user U and is composed of a smartphone, a tablet, a personal computer, or the like. The service management server 103 is an information processing device managed by the provider of this service. Although not particularly shown, similar to a known server, it includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a bus, an input / output interface, an input unit, an output unit, a storage unit, a communication unit, and a drive.

[0035] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the food and drink distribution device in the food and drink distribution system shown in FIG. 5.

[0036] The food and drink distribution device 101 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 111, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 112, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 113, a bus 114, an input / output interface 115, an input unit 116, an output unit 117, a storage unit 118, a communication unit 119, a drive 120, and a food and drink distribution unit 121.

[0037] The CPU 111 executes various processes according to a program recorded in the ROM 112 or a program loaded from the storage unit 118 into the RAM 113. In the RAM 113, data and the like necessary for the CPU 111 to execute various processes are also appropriately stored.

[0038] The CPU 111, ROM 112, and RAM 113 are interconnected via the bus 114. The input / output interface 115 is also connected to this bus 114. The input unit 116, output unit 117, storage unit 118, communication unit 119, and drive 120 are connected to the input / output interface 115.

[0039] The input unit 116 is composed of, for example, a keyboard or the like and inputs various information. The output unit 117 is composed of a display such as a liquid crystal or a speaker or the like and outputs various information as images or sounds. The memory unit 118 is composed of a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or the like and stores various data. The communication unit 119 communicates with other devices (for example, the user terminal 102 and the service management server 103 in FIG. 5) via a network N including the Internet.

[0040] A removable medium 130 made of a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a semiconductor memory, or the like is appropriately mounted on the drive 120. The program read from the removable medium 130 by the drive 120 is installed in the memory unit 118 as necessary. Also, the removable medium 130 can store various data stored in the memory unit 118 in the same manner as the memory unit 118.

[0041] The food and drink distribution unit 121 outputs the collection of the external container 2 and the container 1 in which the food and drink are sealed and held. Note that the food and drink distribution unit 121 will be described later with reference to FIG. 7.

[0042] Although not shown in the figure, the user terminal 102 and the service management server 103 in FIG. 5 can also have a configuration basically the same as the hardware configuration shown in FIG. 6. Therefore, the description of the hardware configuration of the user terminal 102 and the service management server 103 of the food and drink distribution system is omitted.

[0043] Through the cooperation of various hardware and various software that make up the food and drink distribution system in FIG. 5 including the food and drink distribution device 101 in FIG. 6, the food and drink distribution device 101 can execute various processes.

[0044] FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the food and drink distribution device in FIG. 6 that constitutes the food and drink distribution system shown in FIG. 5.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 7, in the food and drink distribution unit 121 of the food and drink distribution device 101, an internal container storage unit 201, an internal container cleaning unit 202, a food and drink storage unit 203, a food and drink filling unit 204, an external container collection unit 205, a container insertion unit 206, and a container output unit 207 function. Also, in the CPU 11, a desired food and drink acquisition unit 301, an external container identification unit 302, a settlement processing unit 303, an internal container identification unit 304, a food and drink history information management unit 305, and an internal container rental unit 306 function. The user DB 401, external container DB 402, and internal container DB 403 shown in FIG. 7 are assumed to exist, for example, on the cloud (the arrangement of the databases in FIG. 7 is an example).

[0046] The internal container storage unit 201 executes control related to the storage and management of the internal containers 3. Here, a predetermined quantity of internal containers 3 are to be stored and managed. The internal container storage unit 201 acquires internal container identification information from an RFID, NFC tag, Bluetooth (registered trademark), barcode, QR code (registered trademark), etc. (including registered trademarks) provided on the internal container 3, and executes control to output the acquired internal container identification information to the internal container identification unit 304.

[0047] The internal container cleaning unit 202 executes control related to the cleaning of the internal containers 3. Specifically, it executes control related to the cleaning of the internal containers 3 before enclosing them in the external container 2. Since the internal container cleaning unit 202 cleans the internal containers 3 that hold food and drink before enclosing them in the external container 2, the food and drink distribution device 101 can effectively maintain cleanliness.

[0048] The food and drink storage unit 203 executes control related to the storage and management of food and drink. Specifically, food and drink before being filled into the internal containers 3 are to be stored and managed. Here, a plurality of types of food and drink are to be stored and managed. The food and drink storage unit 203 acquires food and drink information desired by the user U based on the control of the desired food and drink acquisition unit 301.

[0049] Upon receiving the desired food and beverage information regarding the food and beverage desired by the user U, the food and beverage filling unit 204 executes control related to filling the internal container 3 with the food and beverage desired by the user U. The food and beverage filling unit 204 executes control related to on-demand filling of the food and beverage into the internal container 3. Regarding food and beverages, purees, concentrates, syrups, powders, flavors, supplements, tapioca pearls, aloe, marshmallow, etc. may be freely combined using a liquid cartridge, capsule system, etc. The food and beverage filling unit 204 may fill customized food and beverages for each user U with the support of AI. Also, the food and beverage filling unit 204 may, for example, have an AI avatar notify of excessive sugar intake or recommend intake of water, supplements, or probiotics. The above liquid cartridge or capsule system may set an interface with the food and beverage dispensing device 101 and be open to third parties. Furthermore, the accumulated and stored food intake record information of the user U may be linked with a third-party health care app, etc. via an API. The food and beverage filling unit 204 can flexibly manage the combination of the food and beverage to be dispensed and the internal container 3 to be used. The food and beverage filling unit 204 also executes control related to sealing the internal main body portion 3a with the inner lid 3c.

[0050] The external container collection unit 205 executes control related to receiving the external container 2 collected from the user U. Specifically, the external container collection unit 205 acquires external container identification information from an RFID, NFC tag, Bluetooth (registered trademark), barcode, QR code (registered trademark), etc. (including registered trademarks) provided on the external container 2, and executes control to output the acquired external container identification information to the external container identification unit 302. The external container collection unit 205 can use the food and beverage dispenser 101 as an outer container collection machine and food dispensing machine for the external container 2. The external container collection unit 205 may include a separating mechanism for the used inner container 3. Specifically, the external container is configured to be separable from each other by the external main body part 5 and the external cap part 4 with a screw or the like, and the external container 2 is separated by twisting (turning) using the hook parts provided on the bottom of the external main body part 5 of the external container 2 and the external cap part 4 of the external container 2 with a robot arm, and then the inner container 3 (including the inner lid 3c) is separated by pulling it out from the external container 2 with the robot arm.

[0051] The container insertion unit 206 executes control related to inserting the inner container 3 holding the food and beverage desired by the user U into the external container 2. The container output unit 207 executes control related to outputting the container 1 in a state where the inner container 3 holding the food and beverage is inserted into the external container 2. In other words, the container output unit 207 executes control related to distributing the container 1 in a state where the inner container 3 holding the food and beverage is inserted into the external container 2 to the user U. By the functions of the container output unit 207, the external container collection unit 205, etc., the food and beverage dispenser 101 can automate the collection of the external container 2 and the distribution of the food and beverage by the container 1.

[0052] The desired food and drink acquisition unit 301 executes control related to the acquisition of information on the food and drink desired by the user U (desired food and drink information). Further, the desired food and drink acquisition unit 301 executes control to output the acquired desired food and drink information to the food and drink storage unit 203. The desired food and drink acquisition unit 301 stores the desired food and drink information and the user information acquired together with this desired food and drink information in the user DB 401. Note that the user information is assumed to be information on the user U who holds the external container 2 identified by the external container identification information here. The desired food and drink acquisition unit 301 also executes control to output at least the desired food and drink information and the user information to the food and drink history information management unit 305.

[0053] The external container identification unit 302 executes control related to the reception of the external container identification information acquired from the external container 2 by the external container collection unit 205. Further, the external container identification unit 302 outputs the acquired external container identification information to the settlement processing unit 303 and stores it in the external container DB 402.

[0054] The settlement processing unit 303 executes processing related to the settlement of the consideration for the food and drink for the user U who holds the external container 2 identified by the external container identification information provided from the external container identification unit 302. By the function of the settlement processing unit 303, the food and drink distribution device 101 can realize the automation of the food and drink settlement procedure. Note that the user information for identifying the user U required for settlement may be stored in the food and drink distribution device 101, or may be stored in an external server capable of communicating with the food and drink distribution device 101 in association with the identifier of the external container 2 and collated and settled.

[0055] The internal container identification unit 304 executes control related to the reception of the internal container identification information provided from the internal container storage unit 201. Further, the internal container identification unit 304 outputs the acquired internal container identification information to the food and drink history information management unit 305 and stores it in the internal container DB 403.

[0056] The food and drink history information management unit 305 executes control related to managing and displaying the history of food and drink (e.g., food production date, temperature record, humidity record, etc.) to be held in the internal container 3 based on the acquired internal container identification information. In addition, the food and drink history information management unit 305 also executes control related to managing information in which the internal container identification information is associated with the fact that the internal container 3 is lent to the user U as part of the history information regarding the internal container 3. The food and drink history information management unit 305 can realize tracking by means of an identifier for identifying the internal container 3. By the function of the food and drink history information management unit 305, the food and drink distribution device 101 can automatically manage the history information of food and drink.

[0057] The internal container rental unit 306 executes control related to lending the internal container 3 to the user U. Regarding lending, in response to receiving a food and drink distribution request from the user U under predetermined conditions (e.g., payment of a deposit, etc.) without the external container collection unit 205 receiving the external container 2 recovered from the user U, the container insertion unit 206 distributes by lending to the user U based on the internal container identification information without inserting the internal container 3 holding the food and drink desired by the user U into the external container 2. In the case of lending as described above, it may be lent after disposing a silicon or paper sleeve part and / or lid part for heat insulation and grip purposes on the internal container 3. By the function of the internal container rental unit 306, it becomes possible to lend the internal container 3 for use as both an external container to the user U who has forgotten to bring the external container 2. In this case, the deposit can be refunded after the user U returns the internal container 3. Note that the external container 2 is generally the user's property, and the internal container 3 is generally the vendor's asset, but as an exception, it can be lent to the user U who has paid the deposit.

[0058] With each of the functions as described above, the present invention can use an innovative modular integrated reusable container having the functions of a flask bottle, a double-walled insulated bottle, and / or a cup. More specifically, in response to collecting the external container 2 from the user U who purchases food and drink, the present invention can enclose (insert) the internal container 3 for holding the food and drink in the external container 2 on the spot and distribute the food and drink.

[0059] Next, a specific example of the container 1 will be described. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a specific example of the container shown in FIG. 2. Here, although it has a shape suitable for beverages as shown in the drawing, it can of course be made into a shape suitable for, for example, a lunch box or a soup container.

[0060] The container 1 is configured to include an external container 2 and an internal container 3. The external container 2 has an external cap portion 4 and an external body portion 5. Here, the external body portion 5 employs a structure in which a base cap portion (reference numeral omitted) is integrated on the bottom side. The external cap portion 4 has an external cap body 4a and a seal portion 4b. A mouthpiece (reference numeral omitted) is formed on the upper outer surface of the external cap body 4a. Also, an external container side engaging portion 4c for the internal container 3 is formed on the lower inner surface of the external cap body 4a. The seal portion 4b is made of, for example, silicon and is formed in a shape capable of sealing and opening the food and drink passage portion 3g of the inner lid 3c of the internal container 3 described later. The opening and closing of the food and drink passage portion 3g by the seal portion 4b will be described later.

[0061] The external body portion 5 is formed in a substantially cup shape having a circular upper opening, a bottom wall portion having a smaller diameter than the upper opening, and a side wall portion. Here, the external body portion 5 is formed in a double-walled structure to provide heat insulation to the bottom wall portion and the side wall portion. In the upper opening of such an external main body portion 5, a spacing holding portion 5a is formed to form a predetermined spacing from the internal container 3 inserted in the food and drink dispensing device 101. The spacing holding portion 5a can contribute to securing a predetermined spacing and suppress a temperature change of the food held by the internal container 3. On the bottom wall portion of the external main body portion 5, a concave container-side hook portion 5b is formed to engage with a convex device-side hook portion 210 provided in the food and drink dispensing portion 121 of the food and drink dispensing device 101. The container-side hook portion 5b is provided so that when the external cap portion 4 is turned (rotated) in the food and drink dispensing device 101, the external main body portion 5 does not follow. Further, on the bottom wall portion of the external main body portion 5, a unique identifier 5c using technologies such as RFID, NFC tag, Bluetooth (registered trademark), barcode, QR code (registered trademark), etc. (including registered trademarks) is attached.

[0062] The internal container 3 has an internal main body portion 3a and an inner lid 3c. The internal main body portion 3a is formed in a shape to be inserted into the external main body portion 5 in the food and drink dispensing device 101. Specifically, the internal main body portion 3a is formed in a substantially cup shape having a circular upper opening, a bottom wall portion having a smaller diameter than the upper opening, and a side wall portion. On the upper opening of the internal main body portion 3a, an internal container-side engaging portion 3d for the external container-side engaging portion 4c of the external cap main body 4a is formed. Further, on the upper opening of the internal main body portion 3a, a seal portion 3e that is in close contact with the inner lid 3c is provided. On the bottom wall portion of the internal main body portion 3a, a unique identifier 3f using technologies such as RFID, NFC tag, Bluetooth (registered trademark), barcode, QR code (registered trademark), etc. (including registered trademarks) is attached. The inner lid 3c is made of silicon to close the upper opening of the internal main body portion 3a, and a food and drink passage portion 3g described later is to be closed by a seal portion 4b of the external cap portion 4.

[0063] When the container 1 as described above is collected by the user U into the food and drink distribution device 101, the inner container 3 filled with food and drink is inserted into the outer container 2, and is output (provided) from the food and drink distribution device 101 in such a state. The user U can receive the output container 1 and drink or eat the desired food and drink.

[0064] Next, the opening and closing of the food and drink passage portion 3g by the seal portion 4b will be described. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the opening and closing of the food and drink passage portion by the seal portion of FIG. 8.

[0065] A magnet 3h is provided at the opening of the food and drink passage portion 3g of the inner lid 3c. On the other hand, a magnetic chip 4d integrated with the seal portion 4b is provided on the outer cap body 4a. In the example of FIG. 9, when the magnet 3h of the food and drink passage portion 3g and the magnetic chip 4d are joined by magnetic force, the seal portion 4b has a structure that closes the opening of the food and drink passage portion 3g. Also, in the first option example of FIG. 9, a counter-magnet portion 4f having a strong magnet 4e is provided on the outer cap body 4a, and the magnetic chip 4d integrated with the seal portion 4b is moved by the magnetic force of this strong magnet 4e to open the opening of the food and drink passage portion 3g. Such a structure is adopted. Alternatively, in the second option example, when the outer cap body 4a is turned to open, an engaging portion 4g capable of pulling or rotating the magnetic chip 4d integrated with the seal portion 4b is provided on the outer cap body 4a, and thereby a structure for opening the opening of the food and drink passage portion 3g is adopted.

[0066] Next, a modified example will be described. The outer cap portion may adopt a structure including an outer cap upper part (outer lid part) and an outer cap main part (inner lid part) that can be opened and closed by a hinge, a screw, or the like, in addition to the configuration and structure shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. Although related to FIGS. 8 and 9, as a modification, the external cap portion may be configured to close the opening in the inner container by closing the external cap portion, thereby closing the opening in the inner container with a sealing portion made of silicon or rubber. Further, the upper portion of the external cap and the main body portion of the external cap may be brought into contact with each other by a magnet that can be separated from each other by turning or pulling a screw, thereby closing the opening. Alternatively, it may be configured to include a cover piece disposed between the upper portion of the inner container and the upper portion of the outer container and closing the external cap portion to close the opening formed in the inner container. Further, by closing the upper portion of the external cap, a mechanism may be adopted in which a needle or a funnel is inserted into an inner cap portion made of silicon or rubber, and food as a content can be accessed while maintaining a sealed state. By adopting the above-described modifications, it is possible to seal the inner container that holds food by attaching and detaching the cap portion and to take out the food.

[0067] As another modification, the inner container may be configured to include an inner main part and an inner cap part that can seal the inner main part and has an opening for consuming food and drink. By adopting such an inner container, the inner main part can be sealed by the inner cap part, and access (pouring a beverage, taking out food, etc.) when consuming food and drink can be realized. Note that the mechanism for the opening may be realized by a mechanism that can break a film-shaped inner cap part, or may be realized by pressing an inner cap part made of a flexible material such as rubber or silicon.

[0068] As still another modification, the external cap portion may have a power supply part. This power supply part has the advantage that the electricity from the power supply part can be used for tracking the consumption state and temperature of food and drink, heat insulation / cooling, communication with the outside, timer / clock / screen display / LED light source, etc. Regarding the power supply unit, although not shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the base cap portion 6 (see FIG. 2) may also have a power supply unit, and the electricity from the power supply unit can be used for a temperature sensor (for measuring external temperature / internal temperature), a water surface sensor (by a ToF sensor), a flow sensor, a water quality sensor, an olfactory sensor, an air sensor, a toxin sensor, a heater / cooler, a touch sensor (for measuring sweat level, heart rate, pulse wave, aerobic exercise, etc.), etc.

[0069] Next, with reference to FIGS. 10 to 14, a specific example of the container shown in FIG. 2 will be described respectively. FIGS. 10 to 14 are diagrams showing specific examples of the container and the external container shown in FIG. 2, respectively.

[0070] The container 1 shown in FIG. 10 is configured to include an external container 2 and an internal container 3. The external container 2 is configured to include an external cap portion 4 as shown in the figure having an external cap upper portion and an external cap main body portion, and an external main body portion 5. The internal container 3 is configured to include an internal main body portion 3a and an inner lid 3c. Such a container 1 shown in FIG. 10 may be adopted by replacing it with, for example, the one in the example of FIG. 8.

[0071] The container 1 shown in FIG. 11 is configured to include an external container 2 and an internal container 3. The external container 2 is configured to include an external cap portion 4 as shown in the figure having an external cap upper portion and an external cap main body portion, and an external main body portion 5. The internal container 3 is configured to include an internal main body portion 3a and an inner lid 3c. In FIG. 11, a straw can be stabbed into the inner lid 3c. Such a container 1 shown in FIG. 11 may be adopted by replacing it with, for example, the one in the example of FIG. 8.

[0072] The container 1 shown in FIG. 12 is suitable when the inner lid 3c of the internal container 3 is, for example, in the form of a film, and the external cap portion 4 can be removed to break the inner lid 3c with a straw or the like. Such a container 1 shown in FIG. 12 may be adopted by replacing it with, for example, the one in the example of FIG. 8.

[0073] In the container 1 shown in FIG. 13, when the external cap portion 4 is removed, the inner lid 3c of the inner container 3 is removed together. Such a container 1 shown in FIG. 13 may be adopted by replacing it with, for example, the one in the example of FIG. 8.

[0074] The container 1 shown in FIG. 14 can have various variations in the external cap portion 4. For example, variations such as (a) twist / screw, (b) clipping, (c) pressing with a rubber / silicone ring / band. Such variations may be adopted by replacing them with, for example, the one in the example of FIG. 8.

[0075] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of an outline until the inner container is inserted into the outer container. For example, a plurality of inner main body portions 3a are stored in the food and beverage dispensing device 101 and are adapted to be inserted into the outer main body portion 5. When the inner main body portion 3a is inserted into the outer main body portion 5, a sufficient distance (predetermined interval) of 1 mm to 10 mm (more preferably 2 mm to 5 mm) is ensured between them (temperature change can be suppressed).

[0076] Next, the rental cup will be described. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the rental cup.

[0077] In the above-mentioned lending case, after disposing a silicon or paper sleeve part 5' for heat insulation and grip purposes, and a plastic or paper lid part 4', the rental cup 3' is lent out.

[0078] Next, the overall flow will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 and 18. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of the first half of the overall flow of machine actions, user actions, and in-app / browser actions. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of the second half following FIG. 17.

[0079] In the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the “machine” corresponds to the food and beverage distribution device 101 described above. The steps enclosed by the dashed line in the figure indicate machine actions. Also, the steps enclosed by the solid line indicate user actions. Further, the steps enclosed by the broken line indicate actions related to the in-app / browser. In the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, a series of flows from where the user U is in front of the food and beverage distribution device 101 to taking out the container 1 filled with food and beverage are shown.

[0080] As described above, one embodiment of the present invention has been explained. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and modifications, improvements, etc. within the scope that can achieve the object of the present invention are considered to be included in the present invention.

[0081] Also, the system configuration shown in FIG. 5 and the hardware configuration of the food and beverage distribution device 101 shown in FIG. 6 are merely examples for achieving the object of the present invention and are not particularly limited.

[0082] Also, the functional block diagram shown in FIG. 7 is merely an example and is not particularly limited. That is, it is sufficient that the food and beverage distribution system of FIG. 5 is provided with a function capable of executing the various processes described above as a whole, and the functional blocks and databases used to realize this function are not particularly limited to the example of FIG. 7.

[0083] Also, the location of the functional blocks and databases is not limited to FIG. 7 and may be arbitrary. For example, at least a part of the functional blocks and databases arranged on the food and beverage distribution device 101 side may be configured to be provided on the user terminal 102 side, the service management server 103 side, or another information processing device (not shown).

[0084] In addition, the above-described series of processes can be executed by hardware or by software. Also, one functional block may be configured by hardware alone, by software alone, or by a combination thereof.

[0085] When the series of processes is executed by software, the program constituting the software is installed in a computer or the like from a network or a recording medium. The computer may be a computer incorporated in dedicated hardware. Also, the computer may be a computer capable of executing various functions by installing various programs, such as a general-purpose smartphone or personal computer in addition to a server.

[0086] A recording medium containing such a program is not only constituted by a removable medium (not shown) distributed separately from the apparatus main body to provide the program to the user, but also constituted by a recording medium or the like provided to the user in a state pre-installed in the apparatus main body.

[0087] Note that, in this specification, the step of describing a program recorded on a recording medium includes not only processes performed in time series in accordance with the order thereof, but also processes that are not necessarily processed in time series and are executed in parallel or individually.

[0088] To summarize the above, it is sufficient that the container to which the present invention is applied has the following configuration, and various embodiments can be adopted. That is, the container (for example, container 1 in FIG. 8) to which the present invention is applied an inner container (for example, inner container 3 in FIG. 8) for sealing and holding food and drink, An outer container (e.g., the outer container 2 in FIG. 8) into which the inner container can be inserted for distributing the food or drink to a user (e.g., the user U in FIG. 5), comprising the outer container is configured to insert the inner container in response to collecting the outer container from the user. This is sufficient.

[0089] According to such a container, in response to collecting the outer container from a user who purchases food or drink, the inner container for holding the food or drink can be enclosed in the outer container on the spot to distribute the food or drink.

[0090] Further, the outer container includes an outer main body (e.g., the outer main body 5 in FIG. 8) and a detachable outer cap (e.g., the outer cap 4 in FIG. 8) with respect to the outer main body. This is possible.

[0091] Further, the inner container includes an inner main body for holding the food or drink (e.g., the inner main body 3a in FIG. 8) and an inner cap that can seal the food or drink held in the inner main body and can be opened to distribute the food or drink to the user (e.g., the inner lid 3c in FIG. 8). having This is possible.

[0092] Further, the outer cap of the outer container can have a power supply unit (e.g., the power supply unit can be used for tracking the consumption status and temperature of the food or drink, heat preservation / cooling, communication with the outside, timer / watch / screen display / LED light source, etc. by the power supply unit). This is possible.

[0093] Further, the outer container can further include an identification information providing unit (e.g., the identifier 5c in FIG. 8) for providing identification information for identifying the outer container. This is possible.

[0094] In addition, a spacing holding part (for example, the spacing holding part 5a in FIG. 8) for forming a predetermined spacing between the inserted internal container and the external container can be further provided.

[0095] The food and drink distribution device (for example, the food and drink distribution device 101 in FIG. 7) to which the present invention is applied includes an internal container (for example, the internal container 3 in FIG. 8) for hermetically holding food and drink, and an external container (for example, the external container 2 in FIG. 8) into which the internal container can be inserted to distribute the food and drink to a user (for example, the user U in FIG. 5). It is provided with The external container is configured to insert the internal container in response to the external container being collected from the user. A food and drink distribution device for distributing the food and drink to a container (for example, the container 1 in FIG. 8), including external container collection means (for example, the external container collection part 205 in FIG. 7) for receiving the external container collected from the user, container insertion means (for example, the container insertion part 206 in FIG. 7) for inserting the internal container holding the food and drink desired by the user into the external container, and container output means (for example, the container output part 207 in FIG. 7) for outputting the container in a state where the internal container holding the food and drink is inserted into the external container. It suffices to be provided with these.

[0096] Accordingly, in response to collecting the external container from the user who purchases the food and drink, the internal container for holding the food and drink can be enclosed in the external container on the spot to distribute the food and drink.

[0097] In addition, the external container further has an identification information providing part (for example, the identifier 5c in FIG. 8) for providing external container identification information for identifying the external container. The food and drink distribution device Settlement processing means (for example, the settlement processing unit 303 in FIG. 7) that executes processing related to the settlement of the consideration for the food and drink for the user who holds the external container identified by the provided external container identification information. It can further include.

[0098] Also, in response to receiving desired food and drink information regarding the food and drink desired by the user, it further includes food and drink filling means (for example, the food and drink filling unit 204 in FIG. 7) that fills the internal container with the food and drink desired by the user. It can be.

[0099] Also, internal container cleaning means (for example, the internal container cleaning unit 202 in FIG. 7) that cleans the internal container before enclosing it in the external container It can further include.

[0100] Also, the internal container of the container is attached with internal container identification information for identifying the internal container. Food and drink history information management means (for example, the food and drink history information management unit 305 in FIG. 7) that acquires the internal container identification information from the internal container and manages history information indicating the history of the food and drink held in the internal container based on the internal container identification information. It can further include.

[0101] Without receiving the external container recovered by the external container recovery means from the user, in response to receiving a distribution request for the food and drink from the user under a predetermined condition. The container insertion means stops its function. The container output means outputs the internal container in a state where the food and drink is held. The food and drink history information management means manages information in which the internal container identification information attached to the internal container and the fact that the internal container is lent to the user are associated as part of the internal container history information of the internal container output from the container output means. It can be.

Explanation of Signs

[0102] 1... Container, 2... Outer container, 3... Inner container, 4... Outer cap part, 4a... Outer cap body, 4b... Seal part, 5... Outer main body part, 5a... Spacing holding part, 101... Food and drink distribution device, 111... CPU, 112... ROM, 113... RAM, 114... Bus, 115... Input / output interface, 116... Input part, 117... Output part, 118... Storage part, 119... Communication part, 120... Drive, 121... Food and drink distribution part, 130... Removable media, 201... Inner container storage part, 202... Inner container cleaning part, 203... Food and drink storage part, 204... Food and drink filling part, 205... Outer container collection part, 206... Container insertion part, 207... Container output part, 301... Desired food and drink acquisition part, 302... Outer container identification part, 303... Settlement processing part, 304... Inner container identification part, 305... Food and drink history information management part, 306... Inner container rental part, 401... User DB, 402... Outer container DB, 403... Inner container DB

Claims

1. An inner container for hermetically holding food and drink, An outer container into which the inner container can be inserted for distributing the food and drink to the user, Comprising, The outer container is for inserting the inner container in response to receiving the outer container from the user, Container.

2. The outer container, An outer main body portion, Including an outer cap portion detachably attached to the outer main body portion, The container according to claim 1.

3. The inner container, An inner main body portion for holding the food and drink, An inner cap portion that can seal the food and drink held in the inner main body portion and can be opened for distributing the food and drink to the user, Having, The container according to claim 2.

4. The outer cap portion of the outer container has a power supply unit, The container according to claim 2.

5. The outer container further has an identification information providing unit that provides identification information for identifying the outer container The container according to claim 1.

6. A space holding portion for forming a predetermined space between the inserted inner container and the outer container The container according to claim 1, further comprising.

7. An inner container for hermetically holding food and drink, An outer container into which the inner container can be inserted for distributing the food and drink to the user, Comprising, The outer container is for inserting the inner container in response to receiving the outer container from the user, A food and drink distribution device for distributing the food and drink to the container, Outer container receiving means for receiving the outer container received from the user, Container inserting means for inserting the inner container holding the food and drink desired by the user into the outer container, Container output means for outputting the container in a state where the inner container holding the food and drink is inserted into the outer container, A food and drink distribution device comprising.

8. The outer container, Further has an identification information providing unit that provides outer container identification information for identifying the outer container, The food and drink distribution device, Settlement processing means for executing processing related to settlement of the price of the food and drink for the user who holds the outer container identified by the provided outer container identification information, The food and drink distribution device according to claim 7, further comprising.

9. Further comprising food and drink filling means for filling the inner container with the food and drink desired by the user in response to receiving desired food and drink information regarding the food and drink desired by the user, The food and drink distribution device according to claim 7.

10. The food and drink distribution device according to claim 7, further comprising internal container cleaning means for cleaning the internal container before enclosing it in the external container.

11. The internal container of the container is attached with internal container identification information for identifying the internal container, food and drink history information management means for acquiring the internal container identification information from the internal container and managing history information indicating the history of the food and drink to be held in the internal container based on the internal container identification information, The food and drink distribution device according to claim 7, further comprising the same.

12. Without receiving the external container collected from the user, in response to receiving a distribution request for the food and drink from the user under a predetermined condition, the container insertion means stops its function, the container output means outputs the internal container in a state where the food and drink is held, the food and drink history information management means manages information associating the internal container identification information attached to the internal container and the fact that the internal container is lent to the user as part of the internal container history information of the internal container output from the container output means. The food and drink distribution device according to claim 11.

13. An internal container for hermetically holding food and drink, an external container into which the internal container can be inserted for distributing the food and drink to a user, comprising the external container is configured to insert the internal container in response to collecting the external container from the user. In a food and drink distribution method executed by a food and drink distribution device for distributing the food and drink to the container, an external container collection step of receiving the external container collected from the user, a container insertion step of inserting the internal container holding the food and drink desired by the user into the external container, a container output step of outputting the container in a state where the internal container holding the food and drink is inserted into the external container. A food and drink distribution method including the above steps.

Images