vending machines

Abstract

To provide a vending machine capable of reliably detecting that multiple items have been discharged into a transport unit.SOLUTION: A vending machine 100 according to the present invention includes a weight detection unit 3 and a control unit 4. The control unit 4 is configured to: detect an amount of change in weight by the weight detection unit 3 each time discharging a plurality of items 10 into a transport unit 2; and control the transport unit 2 to move to an outlet 11 based on the detection results of the amount of change in weight detected for each of the all plurality of items 10 selected.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a vending machine, and more particularly to a vending machine having a conveying unit for conveying selected products to an outlet. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, vending machines have been known that include a conveying unit for conveying selected products to an outlet (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] The above-mentioned Patent Document 1 discloses a vending machine equipped with a product selection button and a transport tray. In Patent Document 1, the vending machine is configured so that multiple products are selected using the product selection button, and the selected multiple products are discharged onto the transport tray, and the multiple products are transported to the take-out port. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-101306 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] When multiple products are conveyed simultaneously, all selected products must be discharged to the conveying section. Therefore, although not disclosed in Patent Document 1, it is conceivable to provide a sensor on the conveying tray to detect whether all products have been discharged onto the conveying tray. However, discharging multiple products onto the conveying tray poses a problem in that the sensor's detection light is blocked by products already discharged onto the conveying tray, making it difficult to accurately detect that subsequent products have been discharged onto the conveying tray. The same problem also arises when a magnetic sensor or the like is provided.

[0006] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and one object of the present invention is to provide a vending machine that can reliably detect when multiple products have been discharged into the conveying section. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A vending machine according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a storage section in which products are stored and which is arranged in multiple vertical tiers; a conveying section for receiving multiple products discharged from the storage section and transporting the selected multiple products to an outlet; a weight detection section disposed in the conveying section for detecting the weight within the conveying section; and a control section which, when multiple products are selected, controls the conveying section to discharge the multiple products from the storage section and transport the multiple products simultaneously to the outlet, and the control section is configured to detect the amount of change in weight using the weight detection section each time the multiple products are discharged to the conveying section, and to control the conveying section to move to the outlet based on the detection result of the amount of weight change detected for each of the selected multiple products.

[0008] A vending machine according to one aspect of the present invention includes a conveying unit, a weight detection unit, and a control unit, as described above. The control unit is configured to detect a weight change using the weight detection unit each time multiple products are discharged to the conveying unit, and to control the conveying unit to move to the outlet based on the weight change detected for each of the selected multiple products. Since the weight in the conveying unit changes each time a product is discharged to the conveying unit, if a weight change is detected the same number of times as the number of selected products, it can be assumed that all of the selected multiple products have been discharged to the conveying unit. This allows reliable detection of the discharge of multiple products to the conveying unit. Furthermore, after detecting that the selected multiple products have been discharged, the products can be transported to the outlet all at once. This shortens the time required to discharge all of the products compared to transporting the products one by one to the outlet when purchasing multiple products, allowing for a quick sale without compromising the product quality when multiple products are selected.

[0009] In the vending machine according to the above aspect, the control unit is preferably configured to either discharge the next product or move the conveying unit to the take-out port when the amount of change in weight detected by the weight detection unit is a positive value. With this configuration, since the weight of the product increases when it is discharged to the conveying unit, if the amount of change is positive, it can be determined that the product has been normally discharged to the conveying unit, and the next control can be performed.

[0010] In the vending machine according to the above aspect, the control unit is preferably configured to accept a selection of multiple products to be transported to the outlet, and to rearrange the order in which the multiple products were selected based on predetermined conditions when discharging the multiple products to the transport unit, and then discharge the products to the transport unit. With this configuration, since the order in which the multiple products are discharged to the transport unit is rearranged based on the predetermined conditions, conditions that make it easier to discharge the products to the transport unit can be set as the predetermined conditions, and the products can be discharged in the order that makes it easier to discharge the products to the transport unit, regardless of the order in which they were selected.

[0011] In this case, preferably, the predetermined condition is that the selected plurality of products be discharged to the conveying unit in order, starting with the products stored in the uppermost tier of the storage unit, and the control unit is configured to rearrange the order in which the plurality of products are discharged to the conveying unit, starting from the uppermost tier. This configuration allows the plurality of products to be discharged to the conveying unit while the conveying unit is moving from the upper tier downward, thereby preventing the conveying unit from having to travel a long distance compared to when the conveying unit moves back and forth between the upper and lower tiers in the order the products were selected. As a result, the time required to discharge the products can be shortened.

[0012] In a vending machine configured to rearrange the order in which the multiple products are selected and discharge them to the conveying unit based on a predetermined condition for discharging the multiple products to the conveying unit, preferably, the predetermined condition is to transport the multiple products arranged in vertically overlapping positions to the outlet separately, and the control unit is configured to control the conveying unit to transport the upper products of the multiple products arranged in vertically overlapping positions to the outlet first, and then the lower products to the outlet. With this configuration, for example, when easily deformed products are arranged in vertically overlapping positions, the control unit is configured to control the conveying unit to transport the upper products of the multiple products arranged in vertically overlapping positions to the outlet first, and then the lower products to the outlet. This allows the products to be discharged to the conveying unit and transported to the outlet without overlapping. Furthermore, by discharging the lower products to the conveying unit later, it is possible to prevent the travel distance from becoming too long when one of the overlapping products is transported to the outlet and then the other product is transported to the outlet. As a result, the time required to discharge the products can be shortened.

[0013] In the vending machine configured to rearrange the order in which the multiple products were selected and discharge them to the conveying unit based on predetermined conditions when discharging the multiple products to the conveying unit, preferably, the predetermined condition is that the multiple products arranged in a vertically overlapping position are conveyed to the outlet simultaneously, and the control unit is configured to control the conveying unit to discharge heavier products among the multiple products arranged in a vertically overlapping position first based on weight information for each product. With this configuration, by discharging heavier products to the conveying unit first, it is possible to prevent deformation of lower products due to the weight of upper products when the products are conveyed in a stacked state.

[0014] In a vending machine configured to rearrange the order in which the multiple products were selected and discharge them to the conveying unit based on a predetermined condition when discharging the multiple products to the conveying unit, preferably, the predetermined condition is to simultaneously convey the multiple products arranged in a vertically overlapping position to the take-out opening, and the control unit is configured to control the conveying unit to discharge first the products that can be placed on top of other products among the multiple products arranged in a vertically overlapping position. With this configuration, by discharging first the products that can be placed on top of other products to the conveying unit, when the products are conveyed in an overlapping state, deformation of the products located below can be suppressed and the products located above can be conveyed in a stable state.

[0015] In the vending machine according to the above aspect, the control unit is preferably configured to control the order in which the products are discharged onto the conveying unit when the conveying unit contains products, so as to minimize the load on the conveying unit, which is expressed as the product of the number of stages to which the conveying unit is raised and the number of products in the conveying unit. This configuration reduces the load on the conveying unit, thereby preventing its useful life from being shortened and reducing the driving force required to move the conveying unit.

[0016] In the vending machine according to the above aspect, preferably, when multiple products placed in the same storage section are selected, the control section is configured to either control the discharge of the next product or control the movement of the conveying section to the outlet when the amount of weight change detected by the weight detection section is the same as the total weight of each of the selected multiple products. With this configuration, even when products from the same storage section are discharged to the conveying section all at once, it is possible to detect that all of the multiple products have been discharged to the conveying section.

[0017] In the vending machine according to the above aspect, it is preferable that the vending machine is configured to control the conveyance unit to convey products already discharged to the outlet when the weight change amount detected by the weight detection unit is 0 or a negative value. Here, a weight change amount of 0 is considered to indicate that no products have been discharged, and a weight change amount of a negative value is considered to indicate that a product already discharged to the conveyance unit has fallen. Therefore, with this configuration, it is possible to detect abnormalities when discharging products to the conveyance unit, and to convey products that were normally discharged before the abnormality in product discharge occurred to the outlet.

[0018] The vending machine according to the above aspect preferably further comprises an operation unit including a first operation unit for selecting a product and a second operation unit for confirming the product selection and enabling the selection of the next product, and the control unit is configured to control the conveying unit to discharge products when an operation via the second operation unit is not accepted after an operation via the first operation unit. With this configuration, a purchaser can purchase multiple products consecutively by operating the second operation unit. Furthermore, when the first operation unit is not operated, control is initiated to discharge the multiple products selected up to that point into the conveying unit and transport them to the outlet, so the purchaser does not need to perform any further operation. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a vending machine that can reliably detect that multiple products have been discharged to a conveying section. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a vending machine. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a vending machine. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a transport unit in which a weight detection unit is arranged. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation unit. [Figure 5]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which products are stored in the storage section. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining predetermined conditions according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing a control flow when selecting a product. [Figure 8] 10 is a flow chart showing a control flow when transporting a product. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining predetermined conditions according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining predetermined conditions according to the third embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining predetermined conditions according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a load applied to a conveying unit. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining predetermined conditions according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 14] 13 is a flowchart showing a control flow when conveying products according to the sixth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] [First embodiment] First, the configuration of a vending machine 100 according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0022] (Vending machine configuration) As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the vending machine 100 includes a storage unit 1, a transport unit 2, a weight detection unit 3, a control unit 4, and a main body unit 5.

[0023] The storage section 1 stores products 10. The products 10 include, for example, food such as bread or confectionery, beverages in plastic bottles or cans, and items other than food and beverages. The storage section 1 is provided with multiple levels in the vertical direction (Z direction). Multiple products 10 are placed in one storage section 1. The storage section 1 is also provided with a product discharge section 12 for discharging the products 10. The product discharge section 12 may include, for example, a spiral that rotates to push out the products 10 one by one from the rear (Y2 side), or the products 10 may be transported one by one by a conveyor.

[0024] The conveying unit 2 includes a bucket 21 and a moving mechanism 22. The bucket 21 is a member with an opening on the Z1 side that can receive the selected products 10, and is, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped container. The bucket 21 moves to the storage unit 1 where the products 10 are discharged, and receives the products 10 discharged by the product discharge unit 12. The moving mechanism 22 is configured to move the bucket 21 in the vertical direction. The moving mechanism 22 is configured by a linear motion mechanism that includes a motor and the like. After the bucket 21 is moved to the take-out opening 11 by the moving mechanism 22, it rotates to discharge the products 10 in the bucket 21 into the take-out opening 11.

[0025] As shown in Fig. 3, the weight detection unit 3 is disposed on the bottom surface inside the bucket 21. The weight detection unit 3 is, for example, sheet-shaped, and measures the weight inside the bucket 21 each time a product 10 is discharged into the bucket 21. The weight detection unit 3 is configured, for example, to detect the weight by generating an electrical change due to the load of the product 10.

[0026] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the control unit 4 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and memory. The control unit 4 controls the weight detection unit 3 to detect the amount of change in weight each time multiple products 10 are discharged into the bucket 21 of the conveyance unit 2. Specifically, the control unit 4 detects the difference between the weight in the bucket 21 after the products 10 have been discharged from the storage unit 1 and the weight in the bucket 21 before the products 10 were discharged. When multiple products 10 are selected, the control unit 4 controls the product discharge unit 12 to discharge the products 10 one by one from the storage unit 1 to the conveyance unit 2. The control unit 4 controls the movement mechanism 22 of the conveyance unit 2 to transport multiple products 10 simultaneously to the removal opening 11, and controls the movement of the bucket 21 to the removal opening 11.

[0027] The control unit 4 is configured to control the movement of the conveying unit 2 to the take-out opening 11 based on the detection result of the amount of change in weight detected for each of the selected multiple products 10. Specifically, if the amount of change in weight detected by the weight detection unit 3 is a positive value and there is a next product 10, the control unit 4 controls the next product 10 to be discharged, and if there is no next product 10 (when the selected multiple products 10 have been discharged), the control unit 4 controls the conveying unit 2 (bucket 21) to be moved to the take-out opening 11. Furthermore, if the amount of change in weight detected by the weight detection unit 3 is 0 or a negative value, the control unit 4 controls the conveying unit 2 to transport the products 10 that have already been discharged into the bucket 21 of the conveying unit 2 to the take-out opening 11, and also controls the refund of the money for the products 10 that could not be discharged.

[0028] The control unit 4 is configured to accept the selection of multiple products 10 to be transported to the outlet 11 via the first operation unit 61 and the second operation unit 62 of the operation unit 6. The control unit 4 is configured to rearrange the order in which the multiple products 10 were selected and discharge them to the transport unit 2 based on predetermined conditions for discharging the multiple products 10 to the transport unit 2.

[0029] In the first embodiment, the predetermined condition is that the selected products 10 are discharged to the conveying unit 2 in order, starting with the products 10 stored in the top row of the storage unit 1. The control unit 4 is configured to rearrange the order in which the products 10 are discharged to the conveying unit 2, starting from the top row. Specifically, the products 10 in the storage unit 1 are assigned the same number as the number input by operation using the first operation unit 61. The number is set to indicate, for example, which row of the storage unit 1 the product 10 is located in, counting from the top, and the number of the product 10 stored from the left. For example, the hatched product 10 in FIG. 5 is the second product 10 from the left on the second row from the top, so the number is set to 0202. The number may be four or three digits.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 6 , if the products 10 are selected in the order of the third tier, the fifth tier, and the second tier, the control unit 4 rearranges the products 10 in the order of the second tier, the third tier, and the fifth tier based on predetermined conditions. Note that the selected products 10 are hatched in FIG. 6 . Then, based on the rearranged order, the control unit 4 first moves the conveying unit 2 (bucket 21) to the second tier and discharges the products 10 into the conveying unit 2 (bucket 21). Next, the control unit 4 moves the conveying unit 2 (bucket 21) to the third tier and discharges the products 10 into the conveying unit 2 (bucket 21). Finally, the control unit 4 moves the conveying unit 2 (bucket 21) to the third tier and discharges the products 10 into the conveying unit 2 (bucket 21). Then ...

[0031] The control unit 4 controls the conveying unit 2 to discharge the product 10 when no operation is received via the first operation unit 61 after an operation via the second operation unit 62. Specifically, when a refund lever (not shown) is operated after the second operation unit 62 is operated, the control unit 4 controls the conveying unit 2 to discharge the product 10. Furthermore, after the second operation unit 62 is operated, the control unit 4 may also control the conveying unit 2 to discharge the product 10 when the purchase amount reaches the inserted amount or when it is not possible to purchase additional products 10.

[0032] The main body 5 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The main body 5 includes a door 51 and a housing 52 to which the door 51 is attached at the front. The main body 5 is provided with an outlet 11 on the door 51 and an operation unit 6. An openable cover member (flapper) (not shown) is provided on the front side of the outlet 11. A purchaser can remove a product 10 by opening the cover member. The outlet 11 is provided with a product detection unit 13. When the product detection unit 13 detects a product 10 in the outlet 11, the locking mechanism 14 of the cover member is released, allowing the cover member to be opened. The bucket 21 is configured not to move while the product detection unit 13 is detecting the product 10. The storage unit 1 and the conveying unit 2 are arranged inside the housing 52.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 4, the operation unit 6 includes a first operation unit 61 for selecting a product 10 and a second operation unit 62 for confirming the selection of the product 10 and enabling the selection of the next product 10. In FIG. 4, the first operation unit 61 is surrounded by a dashed line. The first operation unit 61 is a numeric keypad configured to input a number set for each product. The second operation unit 62 is a purchase button, and operation of the second operation unit 62 confirms the selection of the product 10. Note that the display unit 7 is provided with a correction button 63, and therefore, by pressing the correction button 63 after an operation input via the first operation unit 61, the selection of the product 10 can be canceled.

[0034] A display unit 7 is provided near the operation unit 6. The display unit 7 displays the number of the product 10 that was input via the first operation unit 61 when purchasing the product. The display unit 7 also displays an error message if an error occurs in the vending machine 100.

[0035] 2, the vending machine 100 includes a memory unit 8. The memory unit 8 stores predetermined conditions for discharging the products 10 to the conveyance unit 2, and information related to the products 10.

[0036] (Control of the control unit when selecting a product) The control of the control unit 4 when selecting a product will be described with reference to Fig. 7. First, in step S1, the control unit 4 accepts an operation via the first operation unit 61. In step S2, the control unit 4 accepts an operation via the second operation unit 62. This confirms the selection of the product 10 selected in step S1.

[0037] In step S3, the step to be proceeded to differs depending on whether the control unit 4 has received further operation via the first operation unit 61. If further operation via the first operation unit 61 has been received, the process returns to step S2, and steps S2 and S3 are repeated until the selection of multiple products 10 is complete.

[0038] If no operation has been received via the first operation unit 61 in step S3, the process proceeds to step S4. In step S4, the step to be proceeded to differs depending on whether or not an operation via the return lever has been received. If an operation via the return lever has been received, the process assumes that selection of the product 10 has been completed, and starts control to transport the product 10 to the take-out opening 11. At this time, the process proceeds to step S11 in FIG. 8.

[0039] If no operation via the return lever is accepted in step S4, the process proceeds to step S5. In step S5, the control unit 4 determines whether or not an additional purchase is possible. Specifically, it determines whether or not the remaining amount, obtained by subtracting the total price of the selected products 10 from the amount inserted, is greater than the price of the cheapest product 10 among the multiple products 10. If the remaining amount is equal to or greater than the price of the cheapest product 10, an additional purchase is possible, and the process returns to step S3. If the remaining amount is less than the price of the cheapest product 10, an additional purchase is not possible, and the process begins with control to transport the product 10 to the take-out port 11, assuming that selection of the product 10 has been completed. At this point, the process proceeds to step S11 in FIG. 8.

[0040] The control of the control unit 4 when transporting the products 10 will be described with reference to Figure 8. First, in step S11, the selection of the products 10 is completed. In step S12, the control unit 4 moves the transport unit 2 based on predetermined conditions and rearranges the order in which the products 10 are discharged. In the first embodiment, the products 10 on the upper level of the storage unit 1 are discharged to the transport unit 2 first.

[0041] In step S13, the control unit 4 moves the conveying unit 2 (bucket 21) based on the rearranged order. In step S14, the control unit 4 discharges the products 10 into the moved bucket 21. Then, the process proceeds to step S15, where the step to proceed differs depending on whether the amount of change in weight in the bucket 21 before and after discharge, measured by the weight detection unit 3, is a positive value. If the value of the amount of change is positive, the process proceeds to step S16; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S17.

[0042] In step S16, the next step differs depending on whether there are any other selected products 10 that have not been discharged into the conveying section 2 (bucket 21). If there are other products 10, the process returns to step S12, and steps S12 to S16 are repeated until all products 10 have been discharged into the conveying section 2 (bucket 21). If there are no other selected products 10, the process proceeds to step S17.

[0043] In step S17, the bucket 21 is moved to the take-out opening 11. Then, in step S18, the products 10 are discharged to the take-out opening 11. If the change in weight in the conveying unit 2 (bucket 21) is not a positive value in step S15, the products 10 that had been discharged to the conveying unit 2 (bucket 21) up to that point are discharged to the take-out opening 11, and the price of the products 10 that could not be discharged to the conveying unit 2 and the change are refunded. Also, if all the products 10 have been discharged to the conveying unit 2 (bucket 21) in step S16 (if NO in step S7), the products 10 that had been discharged to the conveying unit 2 are discharged to the take-out opening 11, and the change is refunded.

[0044] [Effects of the first embodiment] In the first embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0045] In the first embodiment, the system includes a storage section 1 in which products 10 are stored and which is arranged in multiple vertical stages; a conveying section 2 which receives the multiple products 10 discharged from the storage section 1 and transports the selected multiple products 10 to an outlet 11; a weight detection section 3 disposed in the conveying section 2 which detects the weight within the conveying section 2; and a control section 4 which, when multiple products 10 are selected, controls the conveying section 2 to discharge the multiple products 10 from the storage section 1 and transport the multiple products 10 simultaneously to the outlet 11. The control section 4 is configured to detect a change in weight using the weight detection section 3 each time the multiple products 10 are discharged to the conveying section 2, and to control the conveying section 2 to move to the outlet 11 based on the detected change in weight for all of the selected multiple products 10. As a result, the weight within the conveying section 2 changes each time a product 10 is discharged to the conveying section 2. Therefore, if a number of weight changes equal to the number of selected products 10 are detected, it can be assumed that all of the selected multiple products 10 have been discharged to the conveying section 2. This makes it possible to reliably detect that multiple products 10 have been discharged to the conveying section 2. Furthermore, after it is detected that the selected multiple products 10 have been discharged, the products 10 can be conveyed together to the take-out opening 11. This shortens the time required to discharge all of the products 10 compared to conveying the products 10 one by one to the take-out opening 11 when purchasing multiple products 10, so when multiple products 10 are selected, sales can be carried out in the shortest time possible without compromising the product quality.

[0046] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, if the amount of change in weight detected by the weight detection unit 3 is a positive value, the control unit 4 is configured to either control the discharge of the next product 10 or control the movement of the conveying unit 2 to the take-out opening 11. As a result, since the weight of the product 10 increases when it is discharged to the conveying unit 2, if the amount of change is positive it can be determined that the product 10 has been normally discharged to the conveying unit 2, and so it is possible to proceed to the next control.

[0047] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the control unit 4 is configured to accept a selection of multiple products 10 to be transported to the take-out opening 11, and is configured to rearrange the order in which the multiple products 10 were selected based on predetermined conditions when discharging the multiple products 10 to the transport unit 2, and then discharge the products 10 to the transport unit 2. As a result, the control unit 4 is configured to rearrange the order in which the multiple products 10 are discharged to the transport unit 2 based on predetermined conditions, and it is possible to set conditions that make it easier to discharge the products 10 to the transport unit 2 as predetermined conditions, and to discharge the products 10 in the order that makes it easier to discharge the products 10 to the transport unit 2, regardless of the order in which they were selected.

[0048] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the predetermined condition is that the selected plurality of products 10 are discharged to the conveying unit 2 in order, starting with the products 10 stored in the upper tier of the storage unit 1, and the control unit 4 is configured to rearrange the order in which the multiple products 10 are discharged to the conveying unit 2, starting from the upper tier, and discharge the multiple products 10 to the conveying unit 2. This allows all of the multiple products 10 to be discharged to the conveying unit 2 while the conveying unit 2 is moving from the upper tier downward, thereby preventing the distance traveled by the conveying unit 2 from becoming too long compared to when the conveying unit 2 moves back and forth between the upper and lower tiers in the order in which the products 10 were selected. As a result, the time required to discharge the products 10 can be shortened.

[0049] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, if the change in weight detected by the weight detection unit 3 is 0 or a negative value, control is performed to transport the products 10 that have already been discharged to the conveying unit 2 to the take-out opening 11. As a result, if the change in weight is 0, it is considered that the products 10 have not been discharged, and if the change in weight is a negative value, it is considered that the products 10 that have already been discharged to the conveying unit 2 have fallen. Therefore, this makes it possible to detect abnormalities when discharging the products 10 to the conveying unit 2, and to transport to the take-out opening 11 the products 10 that were normally discharged before the abnormality in the discharge of the products 10 occurred.

[0050] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the device further includes an operation unit 6 including a first operation unit 61 for selecting a product 10 and a second operation unit 62 for confirming the selection of the product 10 and enabling the selection of the next product 10, and the control unit 4 is configured to control the conveyance unit 2 to discharge the product 10 when no operation is accepted via the first operation unit 61 after an operation via the second operation unit 62. This allows the purchaser to purchase multiple products 10 consecutively by operating the second operation unit 62. Furthermore, when the first operation unit 61 is not operated, control is initiated to discharge the multiple products 10 selected up to that point onto the conveyance unit 2 and transport them to the take-out port 11, so the purchaser does not need to perform any further operation.

[0051] [Second embodiment] Next, the configuration of a vending machine 200 according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1, 2 and 9. Note that the same components as those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0052] In the vending machine 200 according to the second embodiment, the predetermined condition is that multiple products 10 arranged in positions where they overlap in the vertical direction (Z direction) are transported separately to the take-out opening 11. Specifically, this is the case when multiple products 10 arranged in positions where they at least partially overlap in the vertical direction are transported.

[0053] The control unit 4 controls the conveyance unit 2 so that, among multiple products 10 arranged in positions that overlap in the vertical direction, the upper product 10 is conveyed to the take-out opening 11 first, and then the lower product 10 is conveyed to the take-out opening 11. At this time, the control unit 4 controls the conveyance unit 2 so that the upper product 10 and the product 10 that does not overlap in the vertical direction are conveyed to the take-out opening 11 first.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 9 , the selected products 10 are products 10 on the second tier, products 10 on the third tier, products 10 on the fourth tier, and products 10 on the fifth tier, and the products 10 on the third tier and the fifth tier overlap vertically. Note that in FIG. 9 , the selected products 10 are hatched. In this case, the control unit 4 controls the conveying unit 2 to convey the product 10 on the third tier, which is located above the products 10 on the third tier and the fifth tier, to the outlet 11 first, and then convey the product 10 on the fifth tier to the outlet 11 later. The control unit 4 also controls the conveying unit 2 to convey the products 10 on the second tier, the products 10 on the third tier, and the products 10 on the fourth tier to the outlet 11 simultaneously. Other configurations of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0055] [Effects of the second embodiment] In the second embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0056] As described above, the second embodiment includes a storage section 1 in which products 10 are stored and which is arranged in multiple vertical tiers; a conveying section 2 that receives the multiple products 10 discharged from the storage section 1 and transports the selected multiple products 10 to the outlet 11; a weight detection section 3 disposed in the conveying section 2 that detects the weight within the conveying section 2; and a control section 4 that, when multiple products 10 are selected, controls the conveying section 2 to discharge the multiple products 10 from the storage section 1 and transport the multiple products 10 simultaneously to the outlet 11. The control section 4 is configured to detect the amount of weight change using the weight detection section 3 each time the multiple products 10 are discharged to the conveying section 2, and to control the conveying section 2 to move to the outlet 11 based on the detected amount of weight change for all of the selected multiple products 10. As a result, the weight within the conveying section 2 changes each time a product 10 is discharged to the conveying section 2. Therefore, if a number of weight changes equal to the number of selected products 10 are detected, it can be assumed that all of the selected multiple products 10 have been discharged to the conveying section 2. This makes it possible to reliably detect that multiple products 10 have been discharged to the conveying section 2. Furthermore, after it is detected that the selected multiple products 10 have been discharged, the products 10 can be conveyed together to the take-out opening 11. This shortens the time required to discharge all of the products 10 compared to conveying the products 10 one by one to the take-out opening 11 when purchasing multiple products 10, so when multiple products 10 are selected, sales can be carried out in the shortest time possible without compromising the product quality.

[0057] In the second embodiment, as described above, the predetermined condition is that multiple products 10 arranged in vertically overlapping positions are transported separately to the outlet 11, and the control unit 4 is configured to control the conveyance so that the upper product 10 of the multiple products 10 arranged in vertically overlapping positions is transported to the outlet 11 first, and then the lower product 10 is transported to the outlet 11. As a result, for example, when deformable products 10 are arranged in vertically overlapping positions, the control is configured to control the conveyance so that the upper product 10 of the multiple products 10 arranged in vertically overlapping positions is transported to the outlet 11 first, and then the lower product 10 is transported to the outlet 11. This allows the products 10 to be discharged to the conveyance unit 2 without overlapping and then transported to the outlet 11. Furthermore, by discharging the lower product 10 to the conveyance unit 2 later, it is possible to prevent a long travel distance when one of the overlapping products 10 is transported to the outlet 11 and then the other product 10 is transported to the outlet 11. As a result, the time required to discharge the products 10 can be reduced.

[0058] Other effects of the second embodiment are similar to those of the first embodiment.

[0059] [Third embodiment] Next, the configuration of a vending machine 300 according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1, 2 and 10. Note that the same components as those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0060] The predetermined condition is that multiple products 10 arranged in a position where they overlap in the vertical direction are simultaneously transported to the take-out opening 11. Specifically, this is the case when products 10 arranged in a position where they overlap at least partially in the vertical direction are transported.

[0061] The control unit 4 controls the conveyance unit 2 to discharge the heaviest product 10 first among multiple products 10 arranged in a vertically overlapping position based on information on the weight of each product 10. The weight of each product 10 is stored in advance in the memory unit 8.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 10 , the selected products 10 are products 10 on the second tier, products 10 on the third tier, products 10 on the fourth tier, and products 10 on the fifth tier, and the products 10 on the third tier and the fifth tier overlap vertically. In FIG. 10 , the selected products 10 are hatched. Assume that the product 10 on the fifth tier is heavier than the product 10 on the third tier. In this case, the control unit 4 controls the conveying unit 2 to eject the product 10 on the fifth tier, which is heavier than the product 10 on the third tier. Since the products 10 on the second tier and the fourth tier do not overlap vertically with the products 10 on the third tier and the fifth tier, the order in which they are ejected is not particularly limited. Other configurations of the third embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0063] [Effects of the third embodiment] In the third embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0064] In the third embodiment, as described above, the system comprises a storage section 1 in which products 10 are stored and which is arranged in multiple vertical tiers, a conveying section 2 which receives multiple products 10 discharged from the storage section 1 and transports the selected multiple products 10 to the removal opening 11, a weight detection section 3 arranged in the conveying section 2 which detects the weight within the conveying section 2, and a control section 4 which, when multiple products 10 are selected, controls the discharge of the multiple products 10 from the storage section 1 to the conveying section 2 and the simultaneous transport of the multiple products 10 to the removal opening 11.The control section 4 is configured to detect the amount of change in weight using the weight detection section 3 each time multiple products 10 are discharged to the conveying section 2, and to control the movement of the conveying section 2 to the removal opening 11 based on the detection results of the amount of change in weight detected for all of the selected multiple products 10. As a result, the weight inside the conveying section 2 changes each time a product 10 is discharged into the conveying section 2, and so when a number of weight changes equal to the number of selected products 10 are detected, it can be assumed that all of the selected products 10 have been discharged into the conveying section 2. As a result, it is possible to reliably detect that multiple products 10 have been discharged into the conveying section 2. Furthermore, after it is detected that the selected multiple products 10 have been discharged, the products 10 can be transported together to the take-out opening 11. This shortens the time required to discharge all of the products 10 compared to transporting the products 10 one by one to the take-out opening 11 when purchasing multiple products 10, and therefore, when multiple products 10 are selected, sales can be carried out in the shortest time possible without compromising the product quality.

[0065] In the third embodiment, as described above, the predetermined condition is that multiple products 10 arranged in a vertically overlapping position are simultaneously transported to the take-out opening 11, and the control unit 4 is configured to control the conveying unit 2 to discharge the heavier products 10 out of the multiple products 10 arranged in a vertically overlapping position, based on information about the weight of each product 10. By discharging the heavier products 10 out of the multiple products 10 arranged in a vertically overlapping position, it is possible to prevent deformation of lower products 10 due to the weight of upper products 10 being applied to them when conveying overlapping products 10.

[0066] The other effects of the third embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0067] [Fourth embodiment] Next, the configuration of a vending machine 400 according to a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1, 2 and 11. Note that the same components as those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0068] The predetermined condition is that multiple products 10 arranged in a position where they overlap in the vertical direction are simultaneously transported to the take-out opening 11. Specifically, this is the case when products 10 arranged in a position where they overlap at least partially in the vertical direction are transported.

[0069] 11, the control unit 4 controls the conveying unit 2 to discharge first, among multiple products 10 arranged in overlapping positions in the vertical direction, products 10 that can have other products 10 placed on top of them. Information on whether or not a product 10 can have other products 10 placed on top of it is stored in advance in the storage unit 8. Whether or not a product 10 can have other products 10 placed on top of it is determined, for example, by information on its shape, such as whether or not the top surface is flat, and information on whether or not it is made of a durable material.

[0070] An example will be described in which the selected products 10 are the products 10 on the second tier, the products 10 on the third tier, the products 10 on the fourth tier, and the products 10 on the fifth tier, and the products 10 on the third tier and the fourth tier overlap vertically. Also, assume that the product 10 on the fourth tier is a product 10 that can have other products 10 placed on top of it. In this case, the control unit 4 controls the product 10 on the fourth tier to be ejected onto the conveying unit 2 first, and then the product 10 on the third tier to be ejected onto the conveying unit 2. Because the products 10 on the second tier and the fifth tier do not overlap with the products 10 on the third tier and the fourth tier, the order in which they are ejected is not particularly limited. Other configurations of the fourth embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0071] [Effects of the fourth embodiment] In the fourth embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0072] As described above, the fourth embodiment includes a storage section 1 in which products 10 are stored and which is arranged in multiple vertical tiers; a conveying section 2 that receives the products 10 discharged from the storage section 1 and transports the selected products 10 to the outlet 11; a weight detection section 3 disposed in the conveying section 2 that detects the weight within the conveying section 2; and a control section 4 that, when multiple products 10 are selected, controls the conveying section 2 to discharge the products 10 from the storage section 1 and transport the multiple products 10 simultaneously to the outlet 11. The control section 4 is configured to detect a change in weight using the weight detection section 3 each time the multiple products 10 are discharged to the conveying section 2, and to control the conveying section 2 to move to the outlet 11 based on the detected change in weight for all of the selected products 10. As a result, the weight within the conveying section 2 changes each time a product 10 is discharged to the conveying section 2. Therefore, if a number of weight changes equal to the number of selected products 10 are detected, it can be assumed that all of the selected products 10 have been discharged to the conveying section 2. This makes it possible to reliably detect that multiple products 10 have been discharged to the conveying section 2. Furthermore, after it is detected that the selected multiple products 10 have been discharged, the products 10 can be conveyed together to the take-out opening 11. This shortens the time required to discharge all of the products 10 compared to conveying the products 10 one by one to the take-out opening 11 when purchasing multiple products 10, so when multiple products 10 are selected, sales can be carried out in the shortest time possible without compromising the product quality.

[0073] In the fourth embodiment, as described above, the predetermined condition is that multiple products 10 arranged in a vertically overlapping position are simultaneously transported to the take-out opening 11, and the control unit 4 is configured to control the conveying unit 2 to first discharge products 10 that can have other products 10 placed on top of them, out of the multiple products 10 arranged in a vertically overlapping position. In this way, by first discharging products 10 that can have other products 10 placed on top of them to the conveying unit 2, when products 10 are transported in a stacked state, it is possible to prevent deformation of the products 10 located below, while allowing the products 10 located above to be transported in a stable state.

[0074] The other effects of the fourth embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0075] [Fifth embodiment] Next, the configuration of a vending machine 500 according to a fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 10 and 12. Note that the same components as those in the third embodiment are given the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0076] In the fifth embodiment, unlike the third embodiment, the control unit 4 controls the order in which the products 10 are discharged from the conveying unit 2 when the conveying unit 2 contains products 10, so as to minimize the load on the conveying unit 2, which is expressed as the product of the number of stages the conveying unit 2 is raised to and the number of products 10 in the conveying unit 2. The load on the conveying unit 2 is the load on the motor when the bucket 21 is raised. Specifically, as the number of products 10 increases or as the number of stages raised increases, the amount of power consumed increases, placing a load on the motor. Note that when the bucket 21 is lowered, there is either no load or a negligible load.

[0077] As shown in Figure 10, the selected products 10 are the products 10 on the second tier, the products 10 on the third tier, the products 10 on the fourth tier, and the products 10 on the fifth tier, and the products 10 on the third tier and the fifth tier overlap each other in the vertical direction. In addition, the product 10 on the fifth tier is assumed to be heavier than the product 10 on the third tier. The control unit 4 controls the product 10 on the fifth tier, which is heavier than the products 10 on the third tier, to be discharged onto the conveying unit 2 first, and then the product 10 on the third tier is discharged onto the conveying unit 2.

[0078] Furthermore, in addition to the order in which the products 10 on the third tier and the products 10 on the fifth tier are discharged, the control unit 4 also sets the order in which the products 10 on the second tier and the products 10 on the fourth tier are discharged so as to minimize the load value. As shown in FIG. 12 , for example, in a comparative example in which the products 10 on the fifth tier, the products 10 on the fourth tier, the products 10 on the third tier, and the products 10 on the second tier are discharged in this order, the load rising from the fifth tier to the fourth tier after the fifth tier is discharged to the conveying unit 2 is 1, which is the number of products 10 multiplied by the number of tiers. Furthermore, after the fourth tier is discharged to the conveying unit 2, the load rising from the fourth tier to the third tier is 2, which is the number of products 10 multiplied by the number of tiers. Furthermore, after the third tier is discharged to the conveying unit 2, the load rising from the third tier to the second tier is 3, which is the number of products 10 multiplied by the number of tiers. Note that the load decreases from then on, so the load is 0. In this case, the total load is 6. On the other hand, in an example where products 10 are discharged in the order of the fifth tier, the second tier, the third tier, and the fourth tier, the load rising from the fifth tier to the second tier is 3, which is the number of products 10 multiplied by 3, the number of tiers, and the load decreases from the fifth tier onwards, so the load is 0. In this case, the total load is 3. Therefore, the control unit 4 discharges the products 10 onto the conveying unit 2 in the order shown in the example with the least load. Note that, to simplify the explanation, the number of products 10 is described, but it is also possible to multiply by the weight of each product instead of the number of products 10. Furthermore, other configurations of the fifth embodiment are the same as those of the third embodiment.

[0079] [Effects of the fifth embodiment] In the fifth embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0080] As described above, the fifth embodiment includes a storage section 1 in which products 10 are stored and which is arranged in multiple vertical tiers; a conveying section 2 that receives the products 10 discharged from the storage section 1 and transports the selected products 10 to the outlet 11; a weight detection section 3 disposed in the conveying section 2 that detects the weight within the conveying section 2; and a control section 4 that, when multiple products 10 are selected, controls the conveying section 2 to discharge the products 10 from the storage section 1 and transport the multiple products 10 simultaneously to the outlet 11. The control section 4 is configured to detect a change in weight using the weight detection section 3 each time the multiple products 10 are discharged to the conveying section 2, and to control the conveying section 2 to move to the outlet 11 based on the detected change in weight for all of the selected products 10. As a result, the weight within the conveying section 2 changes each time a product 10 is discharged to the conveying section 2. Therefore, if a number of weight changes equal to the number of selected products 10 are detected, it can be assumed that all of the selected products 10 have been discharged to the conveying section 2. This makes it possible to reliably detect that multiple products 10 have been discharged to the conveying section 2. Furthermore, after it is detected that the selected multiple products 10 have been discharged, the products 10 can be conveyed together to the take-out opening 11. This shortens the time required to discharge all of the products 10 compared to conveying the products 10 one by one to the take-out opening 11 when purchasing multiple products 10, so when multiple products 10 are selected, sales can be carried out in the shortest time possible without compromising the product quality.

[0081] In the fifth embodiment, as described above, the control unit 4 is configured to control the order in which the conveying unit 2 discharges the products 10 when the conveying unit 2 contains products 10, so as to minimize the load on the conveying unit 2, which is expressed as the product of the number of stages to which the conveying unit 2 is raised and the number of products 10 in the conveying unit 2. This reduces the load on the conveying unit 2, thereby preventing its useful life from becoming shorter and reducing the driving force required to move the conveying unit 2.

[0082] Other effects of the fifth embodiment are similar to those of the third embodiment.

[0083] [Sixth embodiment] Next, the configuration of a vending machine 600 according to a sixth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1, 2, 13, and 14. Note that the same components as those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0084] In the sixth embodiment, when multiple products 10 placed in the same storage section 1 are selected, the control section 4 performs the following control if the amount of change in weight detected by the weight detection section 3 is the same as the total weight of each of the selected multiple products 10.

[0085] For example, if all three selected products 10 are on the third tier, the control unit 4 raises the conveying unit 2 to the second tier and then ejects all three products 10 on the third tier onto the conveying unit 2. At this time, the products 10 may be ejected simultaneously or sequentially.

[0086] Control for discharging products 10 in the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 14. In FIG. 14, step S24 is performed instead of step S14 in FIG. 8, and step S25 is performed instead of step S15. In step S24, the control unit 4 discharges all of the products 10 in the same number of storage units 1 into the conveying unit 2 (bucket 21). In step S25, the control unit 4 proceeds to a different step depending on whether the change in weight detected by the weight detection unit 3 is the same as the total weight of the selected products 10. The weights of the multiple products 10 are stored in the memory unit 8. For example, if the total weight of three products 10 is 150 g and the change is 150 g, the control unit 4 proceeds to step S16 and controls the discharge of the next product 10. If the change is not 150 g, the control unit 4 proceeds to step S17 and controls the transport of the product 10 to the removal opening 11. Other configurations of the sixth embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0087] [Effects of the sixth embodiment] In the sixth embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0088] As described above, the sixth embodiment includes a storage section 1 in which products 10 are stored and which is arranged in multiple vertical tiers; a conveying section 2 that receives the products 10 discharged from the storage section 1 and transports the selected products 10 to the outlet 11; a weight detection section 3 disposed in the conveying section 2 that detects the weight within the conveying section 2; and a control section 4 that, when multiple products 10 are selected, controls the conveying section 2 to discharge the products 10 from the storage section 1 and transport the multiple products 10 simultaneously to the outlet 11. The control section 4 is configured to detect a change in weight using the weight detection section 3 each time the multiple products 10 are discharged to the conveying section 2, and to control the conveying section 2 to move to the outlet 11 based on the detected change in weight for all of the selected products 10. As a result, the weight within the conveying section 2 changes each time a product 10 is discharged to the conveying section 2. Therefore, if a number of weight changes equal to the number of selected products 10 are detected, it can be assumed that all of the selected products 10 have been discharged to the conveying section 2. This makes it possible to reliably detect that multiple products 10 have been discharged to the conveying section 2. Furthermore, after it is detected that the selected multiple products 10 have been discharged, the products 10 can be conveyed together to the take-out opening 11. This shortens the time required to discharge all of the products 10 compared to conveying the products 10 one by one to the take-out opening 11 when purchasing multiple products 10, so when multiple products 10 are selected, sales can be carried out in the shortest time possible without compromising the product quality.

[0089] In the sixth embodiment, as described above, when multiple products 10 placed in the same storage unit 1 are selected, the control unit 4 is configured to either control the next product 10 to be discharged or control the conveying unit 2 to move to the take-out opening 11 if the amount of change in weight detected by the weight detection unit 3 is the same as the total weight of each of the selected multiple products 10. This makes it possible to detect that multiple products 10 have been discharged to the conveying unit 2, even when products 10 from the same storage unit 1 are discharged together to the conveying unit 2.

[0090] The other effects of the sixth embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0091] [Variations] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims rather than the description of the above embodiments, and further includes all modifications (variations) within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0092] For example, in the first to sixth embodiments described above, the first operation unit 61 is a numeric keypad and the second operation unit 62 is a purchase button, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the first operation unit 61 and the second operation unit 62 may be touch panels. In this case, the number of the selected product 10 is input by making a selection on the touch panel. The product 10 may also be selected via a smartphone.

[0093] Furthermore, in the first to sixth embodiments, an example was shown in which a number was assigned to each product 10, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, any number may be used as long as the product 10 can be identified.

[0094] In the first embodiment, the products 10 stored in the storage unit 1 are sequentially discharged to the conveying unit 2 starting from the top level, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the products 10 stored in the storage unit 1 may also be sequentially discharged to the conveying unit 2 starting from the bottom level.

[0095] In the second embodiment, the upper product 10 among multiple products 10 arranged in overlapping positions in the vertical direction is transported first to the outlet 11, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the lower product 10 may be transported first to the outlet 11.

[0096] In addition, in the second to fifth embodiments, examples have been shown in which there are two products 10 arranged in positions that overlap in the vertical direction, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, there may be three or more products 10 arranged in positions that overlap in the downward direction.

[0097] Furthermore, although the fifth embodiment has been described as having the configuration of the third embodiment, the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the fifth embodiment may have the configuration of the second or fourth embodiment.

[0098] Furthermore, while the sixth embodiment described above has been an example that includes the configuration of the first embodiment, the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the sixth embodiment may include the configuration of any of the second to fifth embodiments. In this case, it is not necessary for all of the multiple products 10 arranged in the same storage section 1 to be positioned vertically overlapping with products 10 arranged in other storage sections 1; it is sufficient that at least one product 10 overlaps. [Explanation of symbols]

[0099] 1 Storage section 2. Conveyor section 3 Weight detection unit 4. Control section 6 Control section 10 items 11 Outlet 61 1st operation section 62 2nd operation section 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 vending machines

Claims

1. a storage section in which products are stored and which is provided with a plurality of vertically arranged stages; a conveying unit for receiving the plurality of products discharged from the storage unit and conveying the plurality of selected products to an outlet; a weight detection unit disposed in the conveying unit and configured to detect a weight within the conveying unit; a control unit that controls, when the plurality of products are selected, to eject the plurality of products from the storage unit to the transport unit and transport the plurality of products to the take-out port simultaneously, The control unit is configured to detect the amount of change in weight using the weight detection unit each time the multiple products are discharged to the conveying unit, and to control the conveying unit to move to the outlet based on the detection results of the amount of change in weight detected for each of the multiple selected products.

2. 2. The vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to either control the ejection of the next product or control the movement of the conveying unit to the outlet when the change in weight detected by the weight detection unit is a positive value.

3. The vending machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit is configured to accept a selection of the plurality of products to be transported to the outlet, and to rearrange the order in which the plurality of products were selected based on predetermined conditions when discharging the plurality of products to the conveying unit and discharge the products to the conveying unit.

4. the predetermined condition is that the selected products are discharged to the conveying section in order from the products stored in the uppermost level of the storage section, The vending machine according to claim 3 , wherein the control unit is configured to rearrange the order in which the plurality of products are discharged to the conveying unit in order from the top row to the bottom row.

5. the predetermined condition is that the plurality of products arranged in a vertically overlapping position are separately conveyed to the take-out opening; 4. The vending machine according to claim 3, wherein the control unit is configured to control the conveyance of the upper product among the plurality of products arranged in overlapping positions in the vertical direction to the take-out opening first, and then the lower product to the take-out opening.

6. the predetermined condition is that the plurality of products arranged in a vertically overlapping position are simultaneously transported to the take-out opening; 4. The vending machine according to claim 3, wherein the control unit is configured to control the conveying unit to discharge a heavier product first among the plurality of products arranged in overlapping positions in the vertical direction based on weight information for each product.

7. the predetermined condition is that the plurality of products arranged in a vertically overlapping position are simultaneously conveyed to the take-out opening; The vending machine according to claim 3, wherein the control unit is configured to control the conveying unit to discharge a product that can be placed on top of other products among the plurality of products arranged in overlapping positions in the vertical direction first.

8. The vending machine according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the control unit is configured to control the order in which the products are discharged from the conveying unit so that, when the products are contained in the conveying unit, the value of the load on the conveying unit, which is expressed as the product of the number of stages to which the conveying unit is raised and the number of products in the conveying unit, is minimized.

9. The vending machine according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein when the plurality of products arranged in the same storage section are selected, the control unit is configured to either control the next product to be discharged or control the conveying unit to move to the outlet when the amount of change in weight detected by the weight detection unit is the same as the total weight of each of the selected plurality of products.

10. When the amount of change in weight detected by the weight detection unit is 0 or a negative value, the product already discharged to the conveying unit is conveyed to the outlet. The vending machine according to any one of claims 1 to 9 is configured to perform control.

11. further comprising an operation unit including a first operation unit for selecting the product and a second operation unit for confirming the selection of the product and enabling the next selection of the product; The control unit is configured to control the conveying unit to discharge the commodity when no operation via the first operation unit is accepted after an operation via the second operation unit. The vending machine according to any one of claims 1 to 10,

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