Automatic vending machine

Abstract

To provide a technique capable of contributing to greenhouse gas countermeasures by utilizing a vending machine as the greenhouse gas countermeasures.SOLUTION: The vending machine is provided with a CO2 adsorbent. The CO2 adsorbent is provided in a space into which outside air of the vending machine is taken. The CO2 adsorbent is provided in a space where outside air is taken in at the lower part of the vending machine. The CO2 adsorbent is provided on a door which is opened when the vending machine is filled with commodities. The CO2 adsorbent is provided in a lower part of the door. The CO2 adsorbent is stored in a storage box provided in a lower part of the door. The storage box is composed of a net member. The CO2 adsorbent is stored in a storage bag through which CO2 can permeate. Further, a display means for displaying a CO2 adsorption amount adsorbed by the CO2 adsorbent is provided.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a vending machine that sells products such as beverages, and more particularly to a vending machine that has a function of adsorbing CO2 (carbon dioxide). [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, vending machines that sell products such as PET bottled drinks have been known, as disclosed in Patent Document 1. This type of vending machine has a housing with an openable door that can be opened to replenish products.

[0003] In Patent Document 1, in consideration of the problem of noise when vending machines are installed in quiet indoor locations such as hotels and hospitals, a technology is proposed for effectively silencing the drive noise generated by vending machines. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-210342 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Vending machines are installed in various locations, both indoors and outdoors, and provide consumers with the service of purchasing products whenever they want, 24 hours a day. They can be said to be a necessary social infrastructure in modern times.

[0006] Meanwhile, at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP: Conference of the Parties), countries around the world are taking steps to reduce and absorb greenhouse gas emissions such as carbon dioxide, and public interest in global warming continues to grow. In particular, developed countries have a high sense of crisis regarding the abnormal weather and rising temperatures of recent years, and awareness of greenhouse gases is high not only at the government-led level, but also at the level of private companies, organizations, and individuals.

[0007] While developing products to be sold through vending machines, the inventor noticed that vending machines have become a social infrastructure, are installed in many places all over the country, and serve as a point of contact for all consumers, regardless of age or gender. He then considered whether the so-called economies of scale could be utilized as a measure to combat greenhouse gas emissions.

[0008] Vending machines consume electricity and generate heat, which could give them a negative image of contributing to global warming. Also, because of the noise issue mentioned above, vending machines may not have a positive image, except for the benefit of being able to conveniently purchase products.

[0009] On the other hand, if vending machines can be used to combat greenhouse gas emissions, which are attracting a lot of attention, amidst this negative image, it is expected that a large response will be generated as a reaction to the gap between the negative image and the actual situation. And if the response is large, it is possible that economies of scale will be utilized and a social movement will be born.

[0010] In view of the above, the present invention provides a technology that utilizes vending machines as a greenhouse gas countermeasure and can contribute to greenhouse gas countermeasures. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] The problem to be solved by the present invention is as described above, and the means for solving this problem will now be described.

[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, a vending machine is provided with a CO2 adsorbent.

[0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, the CO2 adsorbent is provided in a space of the vending machine into which outside air is taken.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present invention, the CO2 adsorbent is provided in a space below the vending machine where outside air is taken in.

[0015] In one embodiment of the present invention, the CO2 adsorbent is provided on a door that is opened when the vending machine is filled with products.

[0016] In one embodiment of the present invention, the CO2 adsorbent is provided in the lower part of the door.

[0017] In one embodiment of the present invention, the CO2 adsorbent is accommodated in a storage box provided below the door.

[0018] In one embodiment of the present invention, the storage box is made of a mesh member.

[0019] In one embodiment of the present invention, the CO2 adsorbent is accommodated in a CO2 permeable accommodation bag.

[0020] In one embodiment of the present invention, a display means is provided for displaying the amount of CO2 adsorbed by the CO2 adsorbent.

[0021] In one embodiment of the present invention, a communication means is provided for transmitting or receiving, via communication, the amount of CO2 adsorbed by the CO2 adsorbent.

[0022] In one embodiment of the present invention, the device further comprises an output means for allowing an external terminal to read the amount of CO2 adsorbed by the CO2 adsorbent.

[0023] In one embodiment of the present invention, a calculation means is provided for calculating the amount of CO2 adsorbed by the CO2 adsorbent.

[0024] In one embodiment of the present invention, the CO2 adsorbent is installed outside the vending machine and is installed in a location that is in contact with the outside air that is taken into the inside of the vending machine.

[0025] In one embodiment of the present invention, the CO2 adsorbent is installed inside the vending machine and is installed at a location where it comes into contact with outside air taken into the vending machine.

[0026] In one embodiment of the present invention, the CO2 adsorbent is installed inside the vending machine and is installed at a location where it comes into contact with air that is released from the inside of the vending machine to the outside.

[0027] In one embodiment of the present invention, the CO2 adsorbent is installed outside the vending machine and in a location where it comes into contact with air that is released from the inside of the vending machine to the outside.

[0028] In one embodiment of the present invention, the vending machine has a heat exchanger through which a refrigerant flows, a fan for taking in outside air, a compressor for compressing the refrigerant, and a storage space that houses the heat exchanger, fan, and compressor, and the storage space is connected to an inlet through which outside air flows in and an outlet through which outside air is discharged, and the CO2 adsorbent is installed inside the storage space in at least one of a location between the inlet and the heat exchanger, a location between the heat exchanger and the fan, a location between the fan and the compressor, and a location between the compressor and the outlet.

[0029] In one embodiment of the present invention, the CO2 adsorbent is provided on the outside of the housing of the vending machine, on at least one of the top plate, side plate, and back plate that constitute the housing.

[0030] The container box is made of a gas-permeable material.

[0031] For example, the storage box is made of a paper material. In this way, when the storage box is made of a gas-permeable material, for example, when the storage box is made of a paper material, gas is supplied into the storage box from the surface of the material. [Effects of the Invention]

[0032] According to the present invention, vending machines can absorb CO2 from their surroundings. Vending machines are installed in large numbers all over the country, and by taking advantage of this economy of scale, they can make a significant contribution to the absorption of CO2 from the atmosphere. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0033] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a vending machine. [Figure 2] FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the acquisition of adsorption factor data. [Figure 4] 1 is a flow chart illustrating the steps performed in the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the adsorption reference amount, collection time, etc. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of CO2 adsorption in multiple vending machines. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the internal structure of a vending machine. [Figure 8] (A) to (C) are diagrams showing an example of placing CO2 outside a vending machine. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0034] As shown in Figure 1, the vending machine 1 of the present invention allows a customer to select a product and pay for it, which is then dispensed from a dispenser 7. The vending machine 1 has a controller 100 that controls the temperature of the product and the operation of various drive units, and automatically dispenses products in response to customer operation.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 1, the vending machine 1 is equipped with a CO2 adsorbent 10.

[0036] This allows the vending machine 1 to absorb CO2 from the surrounding area. Vending machines 1 are installed in many locations across the country, and because there are many of them, this economy of scale can be utilized to make a significant contribution to the absorption of CO2 from the atmosphere.

[0037] The CO2 adsorbent is preferably provided in a space in the vending machine where outside air is taken in. Also, the CO2 adsorbent is preferably provided in a space below the vending machine where outside air is taken in.

[0038] 1 and 2, the CO2 adsorbent 10 is preferably provided on a door 2 that is opened when the vending machine 1 is filled with products. The door 2 is provided rotatably with respect to a housing 6 that is the main body of the vending machine 1.

[0039] This allows the CO2 adsorbent 10 to be replaced when the door 2 is opened to fill products such as PET bottles containing beverages, thereby realizing a configuration with excellent workability.

[0040] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the CO2 adsorbent 10 is preferably provided at the bottom of the door 2.

[0041] As a result, even in a configuration in which the CO2 adsorbent 10 is additionally provided on the door 2 of an existing vending machine 1, the center of gravity of the door 2 is positioned lower, so that the door 2 can be opened and closed stably (low center of gravity).

[0042] As shown in FIG. 2, the CO2 adsorbent 10 is accommodated in a storage box 3 provided below the door 2, and the storage box 3 is made of a mesh member.

[0043] This makes it easy to replace the CO2 adsorbent 10. The mesh member is, for example, a stainless steel mesh plate (stainless steel mesh), a mesh-like plate, or a mesh that can support the adsorbent, and is breathable and allows CO2 to pass through. The storage box 3 may be made of a gas-permeable material, such as paper. If the storage box 3 is made of paper, the CO2 adsorbent 10 may be stored directly in the storage box 3 without being placed in the storage bag 4.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 2, the CO2 adsorbent 10 is preferably contained in a CO2 permeable storage bag 4, which is then housed in a storage box 3 provided below the door 2.

[0045] This allows the CO2 adsorbing material 10 contained in the storage bag 4 to be handled as it is, and the storage bag 4 can be collected as it is.

[0046] 1 and 2, the CO2 adsorbent 10 can be placed near a vent 9 provided at the bottom of the door 2. The vent 9 allows air to pass between the inside and outside of the vending machine 1.

[0047] This allows CO2 in the air moving inside and outside the vending machine 1 through the ventilation opening 9 to be effectively adsorbed. Vending machines are originally equipped with a device (e.g., a fan) that takes in outside air to heat and cool the beverages, foods, and other items sold as merchandise, so outside air can be taken in through the ventilation opening 9. Therefore, CO2 can be efficiently absorbed without the need to install any special power source for CO2 absorption.

[0048] For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the CO2 adsorbent 10 is formed into pellets and stored in the storage bag 4.

[0049] This allows, for example, the CO2 adsorbent material 10 in pellet form to be collected while still inside the storage bag 4. The shape of the pellets is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, a cylindrical shape with a diameter of 5 mm and a length of 5 to 10 mm.

[0050] As shown in Fig. 1, the vending machine 1 is provided with a display means 5 for displaying the amount of CO2 adsorbed by the CO2 adsorbent. The display means 5 is, for example, a liquid crystal panel.

[0051] This allows users of vending machine 1 to be aware of the amount of CO2 absorbed by the CO2 adsorbent, highlighting its contribution to CO2 reduction and raising awareness of CO2 reduction. This also gives consumers a positive image that vending machines are contributing to greenhouse gas reduction measures, and because vending machines are installed all over the country and serve as a point of contact with all kinds of consumers, regardless of age or gender, economies of scale can be utilized, and it is expected that a social movement such as "introducing vending machines as a greenhouse gas reduction measure" will be started.

[0052] As shown in Fig. 3, the vending machine 1 is provided with a communication means 112 for transmitting or receiving the amount of CO2 adsorbed by the CO2 adsorbent via communication. The communication means 112 is, for example, a device that connects to the Internet to enable communication and transmits and receives various data. The communication means 112 can be provided as one function of the controller 100.

[0053] This allows the data of the CO2 adsorption amount calculated by the calculation means 102 provided in the vending machine 1 to be transmitted to the outside and the data to be used externally. Alternatively, the data of the CO2 adsorption amount calculated externally can be received and displayed on the display means 5, for example.

[0054] 2, the vending machine 1 is provided with output means 114 for allowing an external terminal to read the amount of CO2 adsorbed by the CO2 adsorbent. The output means 114 can be provided as one function of the controller 100.

[0055] This allows, for example, data on the amount of CO2 adsorption to be acquired by an external terminal (handy terminal, etc.) of a route staff member who visits the vending machine 1 to replenish products, etc., and the data can be used externally.

[0056] 2, the vending machine 1 is provided with a calculation means 102 for calculating the amount of CO2 adsorbed by the CO2 adsorbent. For example, the calculation means 102 can be provided as one function of the controller 100.

[0057] This allows the vending machine 1 to calculate the amount of CO2 adsorption independently.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 3, in the vending machine 1, the amount of CO2 adsorption is calculated. The amount of CO2 adsorption is calculated as follows: Acquiring adsorption factor data of a CO2 adsorbent installed in a vending machine; and calculating the amount of CO2 adsorption.

[0059] By performing calculations in this manner and calculating the amount of CO2 adsorption based on the adsorption factor data, it is possible to obtain with high accuracy the amount of CO2 adsorption that corresponds to the environment in which each vending machine is installed.

[0060] As shown in Figure 3, The step of acquiring adsorption factor data comprises: a measuring means 120 provided in the vending machine; a measuring means 220 located remotely from the vending machine; external data acquisition means 140 for acquiring external data; The method is to be carried out by at least one of the above. It may also be carried out by a combination of a plurality of means.

[0061] As shown in Figure 3, The measuring means 120 provided in the vending machine can be composed of a temperature measuring device, a humidity measuring device, a timer (a device that records measurement times, etc.), etc. The timer can be provided as one function of the controller 100, for example. Furthermore, the measuring means provided in the vending machine can be installed near the CO2 adsorbent inside the vending machine, or, for example, on the rear exterior wall of the vending machine, as long as the present invention can be implemented.

[0062] As shown in Figure 3, The measuring means 220 located away from the vending machine can be composed of a temperature measuring device, a humidity measuring device, a timer (a device for recording measurement times, etc.) and the like, which are installed at the location where the vending machine is installed or in a predetermined area where the vending machine is installed. The adsorption factor data measured by the measuring means 220 located away from the vending machine can be transmitted to the vending machine or the management base 50 via the Internet 60.

[0063] As shown in Figure 3, The external data acquisition means 140 for acquiring external data is a means for acquiring, for example, temperature, humidity, and measurement time from an external organization 230 (a private organization or a public organization) that provides weather data for the location where the vending machine is installed or for the specified area where the vending machine is installed, via the Internet 60. The external data acquisition means 140 can be provided as one function of the controller 100, for example. Also, for example, it is possible to obtain the temperature from a measuring means provided in the vending machine, and obtain the humidity from external data such as that from a local meteorological observatory, and perform calculations using the obtained data.

[0064] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, The step of calculating the amount of CO2 adsorption A calculation means 102 provided in the vending machine; A calculation means 202 installed at a location remote from the vending machine; The method is to be carried out by at least one of the above. It may also be carried out by a combination of a plurality of means.

[0065] The calculation means 202 located away from the vending machine can be provided as one function of a server 200 installed at a management base 50 such as a base (head office or branch) that manages the replenishment of products to each vending machine installed in multiple locations, or a sales office that manages business in a specific area such as a particular administrative district.

[0066] As shown in Figure 3, The adsorption factor data is at least one of temperature, humidity, and time, but may include a plurality of items.

[0067] The amount of CO2 adsorption (g) per unit weight (g) per unit time (h) using the adsorption factor data, temperature (ambient temperature) and humidity (ambient humidity), is calculated, for example, using the following equation (1): [Formula (1)] Amount of CO2 adsorbed per unit weight (g) = 0.206 (g) + 0.283 (g) * adsorbent coefficient + 0.0015 (g) * ambient temperature + 0.0008 (g) * ambient humidity Here, the adsorbent coefficient is a constant that is predefined for each adsorbent. The ambient temperature is in degrees Celsius (°C) and is dimensionless. The environmental humidity is expressed as a percentage (%) and is dimensionless.

[0068] For example, when 5 kg (5000 g) of CO2 adsorbent is installed in a vending machine, the amount of CO2 adsorbed (g) in one hour in the vending machine can be calculated using the following formula (2). [Formula (2)] CO2 adsorption amount (g) = 5000 * {0.206 (g) + 0.283 (g) * adsorbent coefficient + 0.0015 (g) * ambient temperature + 0.0008 (g) * ambient humidity} Here, for the environmental temperature and environmental humidity, for example, average values ​​for that one hour can be used. The one hour used in the calculation can be measured by the vending machine or an external timer (a device that records measurement times, etc.).

[0069] In Figure 2, the CO2 adsorbent is recovered after adsorbing CO2. The timing of recovery is determined, for example, by the following method. That is, A method for determining when to recover a CO2 adsorbent in a vending machine equipped with the CO2 adsorbent, comprising: acquiring adsorption factor data; The method shall include a step of determining the timing of recovery of the CO2 adsorbent material.

[0070] According to this system, by calculating the amount of CO2 adsorption based on the adsorption factor data and determining the timing for collecting the CO2 adsorbent, the collection timing can be optimized based on the amount of CO2 adsorption that suits the environment in which each vending machine is installed, allowing the CO2 adsorbent to be used without waste. For example, if the collection timing is set too early, CO2 adsorbent that could originally adsorb more CO2 will be wasted, but by optimizing the collection timing according to the vending machine's installation environment, such waste can be reduced.

[0071] Also, as shown in Figure 3, determining the timing of recovery of the CO2 adsorbent material, A calculation means 104 provided in the vending machine; A calculation means 202 installed at a location remote from the vending machine; The method is to be carried out by at least one of the above. It may also be carried out by a combination of a plurality of means.

[0072] Also, as shown in Figure 4, determining the timing of recovery of the CO2 adsorbent material, The calculated CO2 adsorption amount, This will be done by comparing the standard adsorption amount of the CO2 adsorbent.

[0073] For example, the calculation means 104 of the vending machine 1 stores the adsorption reference amount K(g) based on the weight of the CO2 adsorbent to be installed and the adsorbent coefficient (see Equation 1). This adsorption reference amount K(g) corresponds to the amount of CO2 (g) that the installed CO2 adsorbent can adsorb. It is most preferable that the adsorption reference amount K(g) be set to the CO2 adsorption amount when the CO2 adsorbent reaches a saturated state where it can no longer adsorb CO2, i.e., the saturated adsorption amount. Alternatively, for example, the adsorption reference amount K(g) may be set to a CO2 adsorption amount that is 90% or 80% of the saturated adsorption amount.

[0074] FIG. 5 shows an example in which the reference adsorption amount is set to the saturated adsorption amount (the CO2 adsorption amount when the CO2 adsorbent reaches a saturated state where it can no longer adsorb CO2). As shown in FIG. 5, the calculation means 104 monitors the integrated value M(g) (the summed cumulative value) of the CO2 adsorption amount (g) calculated by equation (2), compares it with the standard adsorption amount K(g), and, for example, when the integrated value M(g) reaches 80% of the standard adsorption amount K(g) (time T1), determines that the recovery time (time T2) will be 10 hours later.

[0075] The above-mentioned collection time (time T2) may be determined by a calculation means 202 installed at a location away from the vending machine, instead of by the calculation means 104. The calculation means 104 and the calculation means 202 function as means for comparing the CO2 adsorption amount with the adsorption reference amount and determining the time to collect the CO2 adsorbent.

[0076] As shown in Figure 4, The system includes a step of outputting an alert signal when the amount of CO2 adsorbed exceeds the reference amount of adsorption (time T2). This alert signal serves as a flag to indicate that the CO2 adsorbent has adsorbed a certain amount of CO2 and that it is time to recover (replace) the CO2 adsorbent.

[0077] For example, the calculation means 104 outputs an alert signal when time T2 is reached. The alert signal is also output to, for example, the display means 5, which displays a message that recovery of the CO2 adsorbent is necessary. In this case, the calculation means 104 functions as a means for outputting an alert signal when the amount of the CO2 adsorbent exceeds the adsorption reference amount.

[0078] The alert signal is read by an external terminal of the route staff via the output means 114, for example, to notify the route staff that the CO2 adsorbent needs to be collected. The route staff can then collect the CO2 adsorbent or replace it by installing a new CO2 adsorbent.

[0079] The alert signal is also sent by the communication means 112 to, for example, the management base 50 located away from the vending machine, and the need to collect the CO2 adsorbent material is recognized at the management base 50. The management base 50 can then request the route staff to collect or replace the CO2 adsorbent material.

[0080] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of operation when CO2 is absorbed by multiple vending machines 1. For example, several dozen vending machines 1 are installed in a specific administrative district (such as X-chome, X-banchi, etc.). In a city, vending machines 1 are installed everywhere, and CO2 can be absorbed at each installation location, making it possible to contribute to reducing CO2 in the atmosphere over a wide area.

[0081] Route staff 70 makes rounds to each vending machine 1 to replenish products. When replenishing products, route staff 70 checks the amount of CO2 adsorption displayed on the display means 5 of the vending machine 1 and a display indicating that recovery is necessary, and recovers or replaces the CO2 adsorbent material at that time. Alternatively, route staff 70 recovers or replaces the CO2 adsorbent material based on a notification sent to an external terminal carried by the route staff 70. Alternatively, route staff 70 recovers or replaces the CO2 adsorbent material based on a request from the management base 50.

[0082] For example, the amount of CO2 adsorption calculated by the calculation means of each vending machine 1 is transmitted to the management site 50 via the Internet 60. As shown in Figure 4, when time T2 is reached, the management site 50 transmits an alert signal to the route staff 70, requesting the collection or replacement of the CO2 adsorbent material.

[0083] At management site 50, for example, the calculation means at management site 50 calculates the amount of CO2 adsorption for each vending machine 1 based on adsorption factor data acquired via Internet 60. As shown in Figure 4, at management site 50, when time T2 is reached, an alert signal is sent to route staff 70 requesting collection or replacement of the CO2 adsorbent material.

[0084] The management site 50 can grasp the amount of CO2 adsorption by each vending machine 1. This makes it possible to, for example, adjust the amount of CO2 adsorbent installed in each vending machine and consider optimizing the collection schedule. It is also possible to analyze the vending machine's installation environment (temperature, humidity) and consider the selection of the type of CO2 adsorbent to use.

[0085] The management base 50 may also carry out a step of accumulating the CO2 absorbed by each vending machine 1 and calculating the total amount of CO2 absorbed.

[0086] This makes it possible to calculate the total amount of CO2 absorbed by each vending machine 1 in a specific administrative district (such as ○ chome ○ no.), making it possible to contribute to society using this total amount and helping to raise awareness of CO2 reduction activities.

[0087] The composition of the CO2 adsorbent is not particularly limited. For example, CO2 adsorbents include commercially available zeolites and activated carbon. For example, the commercially available crystalline zeolite "Molecular Sieve 13X" has been disclosed as a CO2 capture system for engines ("CO2 Separation and Capture Technology for Engines Using Zeolite, Proceedings of the Society of Automotive Engineers of Japan, Vol. 53, No. 3, May 2022"), and such crystalline zeolites (aluminosilicate crystalline materials) can also be used.

[0088] Alternatively, the CO2 adsorbent can be made reusable by stripping the CO2 once adsorbed, such as commercially available zeolite or activated carbon.

[0089] Furthermore, the CO2 adsorbent is not limited to being pellet-shaped, and may be, for example, powder, sand, granules, blocks, filters, or honeycomb structures. The CO2 adsorbent may be one in which CO2 is fixed to the adsorbent through a chemical reaction, or one in which CO2 is physically fixed to the adsorbent. Furthermore, if the adsorbent can be installed using a liquid-filled cartridge, the adsorbent may be a liquid such as potassium hydroxide or an amine.

[0090] As shown in Figure 6, the CO2 adsorbents collected by the route staff are collected at a management site 50, regenerated, and then installed back into the vending machine. Making the CO2 adsorbents reusable allows for recycling, preventing the environmental impact of disposal. Known regeneration methods can be used (e.g., "Bench-scale test of CO2 capture from wet gas using a fixed bed of K2CO3-loaded activated carbon," Journal of Chemical Engineering, Vol. 30, No. 5, 2004, pp. 668-672).

[0091] FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of the vending machine 1. The housing 6 of the vending machine 1 is configured to have a bottom plate portion 6a, side plates 6b, a back plate 6c, and a top plate 6d, and the front side of the housing 6 is configured to be closed or opened by a door 2.

[0092] The housing 6 is divided into an internal space 21 for storing products 22 and for cooling, heating, and keeping them warm, and a storage space 31 located below the internal space 21 for storing a heat exchanger 32 (having the function of emitting heat and / or absorbing heat) and the like.

[0093] The interior space 21 is formed by being surrounded by a heat insulating material 23. The storage space 31 is formed by being surrounded by the heat insulating material 23 arranged at the bottom of the interior space 21, the door 2, the bottom plate 6a, the side plates 6b, the back plate 6c, and the top plate 6d. In this example, the top surface of the storage space 31 is formed by the heat insulating material 23, but it may be formed by a plate material or the like instead of the heat insulating material 23. In the example of FIG. 7, the interior of the storage space is cooled or heated using the principle of a heat pump.

[0094] Furthermore, a heat exchanger 26 and an internal fan 25 are provided in the internal space 21. When a cooling chamber for cooling and a heating chamber for heating are formed in the internal space 21, the cooling chamber and the heating chamber are each provided with their own heat exchanger 26 and internal fan 25.

[0095] The storage space 31 is shown to have a heat exchanger 32, a fan 33, a capillary tube 34 (which may be an expansion valve), and a compressor 35. For example, when cooling the cooling chamber of the internal space 21, the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant pipe is compressed into a high-pressure gas by the compressor 35, which raises the temperature and facilitates heat exchange. The refrigerant is then sent to the heat exchanger 32 (which functions as a condenser in this case). In the heat exchanger 32, the heat of the refrigerant is released by outside air taken in from outside the vending machine 1 by the fan 33, which cools the refrigerant and liquefies the refrigerant. The pressure of the liquefied refrigerant is reduced by the capillary tube 34 to make it more likely to vaporize (evaporate), and the liquefied refrigerant is sent to the heat exchanger 24 (which functions as an evaporator in this case). The low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant evaporates in the heat exchanger 24, absorbing heat from the surrounding air and cooling the surrounding air. The cooled air is then circulated within the internal space 21 by the internal fan 25. This circulation of cooled air lowers the temperature of the interior space 21, and the products 22 are cooled and kept warm to a predetermined temperature.

[0096] When heating the heating compartment of the interior space 21, the principle of a heat pump is used to absorb heat in the heat exchanger 32, and high-temperature refrigerant is supplied from the compressor 35 to the heat exchanger 26, and the heat released from the heat exchanger 26 is used to heat the interior of the compartment.

[0097] The storage space 31 is connected to an inlet through which outside air flows in and an outlet through which the outside air is discharged. In one embodiment, the inlet through which outside air flows in is configured as an air vent 9 formed in the lower part of the door 2. In another embodiment, the inlet through which outside air is discharged is configured as an air vent 91 formed in the lower part of the back panel 6c of the housing 6. As the fan 33 rotates, outside air is taken into the storage space 31 through the air vent 9, and heat is exchanged between the outside air and the refrigerant in the heat exchanger 32, and the outside air that has absorbed the heat is discharged to outside the storage space 31 through the air vent 91.

[0098] The "lower part" of the door 2, the back panel 6c, the housing 6, etc. refers to, for example, the range from the lowest position to 1 / 3, 1 / 4, 1 / 5, 1 / 6, or 1 / 7 of the overall height in the vertical direction when the vending machine 1 is installed.

[0099] In addition to the vending machine having the internal space 21 arranged on the upper side and the storage space 31 formed below it as in the configuration of Figure 7, it is also possible for the internal space 21 and the storage space 31 to have the up-down relationship reversed.

[0100] In the above configuration, for example, the CO2 adsorbent is installed outside the vending machine in a location that is in contact with the outside air that is taken into the vending machine. Specifically, for example, the CO2 adsorbent may be installed at position A in Figure 7, which may be a position close to the vent 9 or a position that blocks the vent 9. In this example, the outside air before being taken into the storage space 31 by the rotation of the fan 33 comes into contact with the CO2 adsorbent, allowing the CO2 contained in the outside air to be absorbed by the CO2 adsorbent.

[0101] In the above configuration, for example, the CO2 adsorbent is installed inside the vending machine and in a location that is in contact with the outside air that has been taken into the vending machine. Specifically, for example, this is at positions B to D or position F in Fig. 7, and the CO2 adsorbent can absorb CO2 contained in the outside air that has been taken into the storage space 31 and the air that remains in the storage space 31.

[0102] In the above configuration, for example, the CO2 adsorbent is installed inside the vending machine and in a location that comes into contact with air that is released from inside the vending machine to the outside. Specifically, for example, it may be installed at position D in Figure 7, which is a position close to the ventilation opening 91, or a position that blocks the ventilation opening 91. In this example, the CO2 adsorbent can absorb CO2 contained in the air that is about to be released from inside the storage space 31 to the outside.

[0103] In the above configuration, for example, the CO2 adsorbent is installed outside the vending machine and in a location where it comes into contact with air that is discharged from the inside of the vending machine to the outside. Specifically, for example, it may be installed at position E in Figure 7, which is a position close to the ventilation opening 91, or a position that blocks the ventilation opening 91. In this example, the CO2 adsorbent can absorb the CO2 contained in the air that is discharged from the storage space 31 to the outside.

[0104] In the above configuration, for example, The vending machine includes a heat exchanger 32 through which a refrigerant flows; A fan 33 for taking in outside air, a compressor 35 for compressing the refrigerant; an accommodation space 31 that accommodates a heat exchanger 32, a fan 33, and a compressor 35; The accommodation space 31 is connected to an inlet (vent 9) through which outside air flows in and an outlet (vent 91) through which outside air is discharged. CO2 adsorbent is The CO2 adsorbent is installed inside the accommodation space 31 at least one of the following locations: a location (position A) between the inlet (vent 9) and the heat exchanger 32, a location (position F) between the heat exchanger 32 and the fan 33, a location (position C) between the fan 33 and the compressor 35, and a location (position D) between the compressor 35 and the outlet (vent 91). This allows the CO2 adsorbent to absorb CO2 contained in the outside air after it has been taken into the accommodation space 31 and in the air remaining in the accommodation space 31.

[0105] In the above configuration, for example, as shown in FIGS. 8(A) to 8(C), The CO2 adsorbent is provided on the outside of the housing 6 of the vending machine 1, on at least one of the top plate 6d, the side plate 6b, and the back plate 6c that constitute the housing 6. Specifically, as shown in each figure, for example, a storage box 3 is installed and a CO2 adsorbent 10 is placed inside the storage box 3 to adsorb CO2 contained in the air outside the vending machine 1. Note that a fan for drawing in outside air may be provided in the storage box 3 to promote the adsorption of CO2 by the CO2 adsorbent 10 inside the storage box 3. The driving force for the fan may be secured by a solar panel (not shown) in addition to the electricity used to operate the vending machine 1. According to this example, the CO2 adsorbent can be installed not only in newly installed vending machines 1 but also in existing vending machines 1 as a retrofit. [Explanation of symbols]

[0106] 1. Vending machines 2 doors 3 Storage Box 4 storage bags 5 Display means 6. Housing 7. Removal port 9 Ventilation holes 10 CO2 absorbent 50 Management Bases 60 Internet 70 Route Staff 100 Controllers 102 Calculation means 104 Calculation means 112 Means of communication 114 Output Method 120 Measurement means 140 External Data Acquisition Methods 200 servers 202 Calculation means 220 Measurement means 230 External Organizations K adsorption standard amount M Accumulated value

Claims

1. CO ２ Vending machines equipped with absorbent materials.

2. The CO ２ The adsorbent is provided in a space in the vending machine where outside air is taken in.

2. The vending machine according to claim 1,

3. The CO ２ The adsorbent is installed in the space below the vending machine where outside air is taken in.

3. The vending machine according to claim 2.

4. The CO ２ The adsorbent is provided on a door that is opened when the vending machine is filled with products.

4. The vending machine according to claim 3.

5. The CO ２ The adsorbent is provided at the bottom of the door.

5. The vending machine according to claim 4.

6. The CO ２ The adsorbent is stored in a storage box provided at the bottom of the door.

6. The vending machine according to claim 5.

7. The storage box is made of a mesh member.

7. The vending machine according to claim 6.

8. The CO ２ The adsorbent is CO ２ is contained in a permeable containment bag, 8. The vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the vending machine is a

9. The CO ２ CO adsorbed by the adsorbent ２ a display means for displaying the amount of adsorption; 8. The vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the vending machine is a vending machine having a valve.

10. The CO ２ CO adsorbed by the adsorbent ２ a communication means for transmitting or receiving the amount of adsorption by communication; 8. The vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the vending machine is a vending machine having a valve.

11. The CO ２ CO adsorbed by the adsorbent ２ an output means for outputting the amount of adsorption to an external terminal; 8. The vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the vending machine is a vending machine having a valve.

12. The CO ２ CO adsorbed by the adsorbent ２ a calculation means for calculating the amount of adsorption; 8. The vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the vending machine is a vending machine having a valve.

13. CO ２ The adsorbent is installed outside the vending machine and is installed in a location that is in contact with the outside air that is taken into the vending machine.

2. The vending machine according to claim 1 .

14. CO ２ The adsorbent is installed inside the vending machine and is installed at a location where it comes into contact with outside air taken into the vending machine.

2. The vending machine according to claim 1 .

15. CO ２ The adsorbent is installed inside the vending machine and at a location where it comes into contact with air released from the inside of the vending machine to the outside.

2. The vending machine according to claim 1 .

16. CO ２ The adsorbent is installed outside the vending machine and in a location where it comes into contact with air released from the inside of the vending machine to the outside.

2. The vending machine according to claim 1 .

17. A vending machine consists of a heat exchanger through which a refrigerant flows, A fan to bring in fresh air, a compressor for compressing a refrigerant; an accommodation space for accommodating the heat exchanger, the fan, and the compressor; The storage space is connected to an inlet through which outside air flows in and an outlet through which outside air is discharged, CO ２ The adsorbent is The heat exchanger is installed inside the accommodation space at at least one of a location between the inlet and the heat exchanger, a location between the heat exchanger and the fan, a location between the fan and the compressor, and a location between the compressor and the outlet.

2. The vending machine according to claim 1 .

18. CO ２ The adsorbent is provided on the exterior of the vending machine housing, on at least one of the top plate, side plate, and back plate that constitute the housing.

2. The vending machine according to claim 1 .

19. 7. The vending machine according to claim 6, wherein the container is made of a gas-permeable material.

20. 7. The vending machine according to claim 6, wherein the container is made of paper.

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