Vending Machine System

Abstract

1. A vending machine system for exchanging CO2 gas cylinders, the system including a controller in communication with a user interface, a payment system, and an array of container assemblies, each of the container assemblies shaped to at least partially receive an end of a CO2 gas cylinder and including a locking system for releasably securing the CO2 gas cylinder therein, the system including: (a) performing the steps of accepting user input via a user interface; (b) if the user input indicates a request to perform maintenance, the system: (i) verifying that the user is authorized to perform the maintenance; (ii) unlocking an empty CO2 gas cylinder from each container assembly for removal by a user; (iii) receiving a full CO2 gas cylinder into the empty container assembly; (iv) securing the received full CO2 gas cylinder to the empty container assembly;

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a vending machine system, a container assembly, an array of container assemblies, and a vending machine. [Background technology]

[0002] A popular way to make your own sparkling drinks at home is to use a soda maker, such as those manufactured by SodaStream®. (a) Carbonated water maker housing; (b) plastic carbonated bottle; (c) CO2 cylinder It is equipped with:

[0003] Using a carbonated water maker reduces the CO2 in the cylinder, so the cylinder will need to be replaced from time to time.

[0004] Cylinders are currently replaced in one of the following ways: 1. Swap cylinders from store shelves: a. Go to a store such as Big W® where customers can exchange their empty cylinders; b. A customer removes a full cylinder from the shelf; c. The customer takes the new cylinder to the checkout; d. The cashier scans the barcode on the new cylinder and the cash register displays the price of a full cylinder; e. The cashier scans the empty cylinder and the cash register: i. Exchange price discounts; ii. Display the exchange price; g. The customer pays the exchange price and takes the full cylinder home. 2. Replace the cylinder at the counter: Take your empty SodaStream® cylinder to the counter at your local Target®, Myer®, Kmart® or David Jones® store and ask a store associate to exchange it for a full cylinder. A customer goes to a store such as Kmart® with an empty cylinder; b. A customer requests the store clerk to exchange an empty cylinder for a full gas cylinder; c. The clerk takes the customer's empty cylinder; d. The clerk retrieves a full gas cylinder from behind the counter and scans its barcode; e. The cash register displays the exchange price; f. The customer pays the exchange price and takes the full gas cylinder home.

[0005] It is not convenient for customers to travel to a store and replace the cylinder as described in points 1 and 2 above, especially in bad weather and / or when travel is limited.

[0006] Furthermore, the above system relies on cashiers and ultimately on store owners to collect the empty cylinders and contact the soda manufacturer for collection and refilling. The problem here is that soda manufacturers do not know at any given time how many empty cylinders are being collected at the stores they supply. Furthermore, due to human error, stores may not collect 100% of their cylinders. Cylinders are easily lost, costing suppliers time and money.

[0007] To address the above issues, the exchange process has been localized to petrol stations such as Coles Express® stores. The improved process includes the following steps: a. The customer takes the empty cylinder to a gas station that stocks replacement cylinders; b. The cashier scans the barcode or pre-printed barcode on the empty cylinder; c. The cash register displays the exchange price; d. The customer pays the replacement price; e. The customer will be given a key for the replacement cylinder cage; f. The customer unlocks the cage and replaces the empty cylinder with a full one; g. The customer returns the key to the cashier and takes the full cylinder home.

[0008] Being able to swap cylinders at a local gas station may be more convenient than going to a big box store. However, the process is time-consuming and relies on numerous mechanical and manual steps, including locking and unlocking the cage. For example, theft can be an issue if the customer does not properly lock the cage. Lack of cage security could also lead to customers switching out more than one cylinder without paying.

[0009] Furthermore, like processes 1 and 2, the gas station process still relies on the cashier and ultimately on the store owner to collect the empty cylinders and contact the soda manufacturer for collection and refilling. Similarly, the problem here is that the soda manufacturer does not know at any given time how many empty cylinders have been collected at the stores it supplies. Furthermore, due to human error, stores may not be able to collect 100% of their cylinders. Cylinders are easily lost.

[0010] Processes 1 and 2 also require direct interaction between the customer and another person (a clerk or cashier). For example, the customer must hand over the empty cylinder to the clerk or cashier, who then provides a new cylinder directly. This process itself can pose hygiene risks and the spread of disease for one or both of the following reasons: a. Close proximity between people for cylinder exchange; and b. Physically touching the cylinder. Additionally, customers who access the cage of the replacement cylinder: a. A key for cage access; b.Cage lock and; c. Cylinders in cages containing cylinders that are not removed by the customer but are later requested by other customers; It can touch multiple surfaces, including

[0011] It would be widely desirable to overcome or ameliorate one or more of the problems set forth above, or at least to provide a useful alternative. Summary of the Invention

[0012] In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a vending machine system for exchanging CO2 gas cylinders, the system including a user interface, a payment system, and a controller in communication with an array of container assemblies, each of the container assemblies shaped to at least partially receive an end of a CO2 gas cylinder and including a locking system for releasably securing the CO2 gas cylinder therein, the system including: (a) performing the steps of accepting user input via a user interface; (b) if the user input indicates a request to perform maintenance, the system: (i) verifying that the user is authorized to perform the maintenance; (ii) unlocking an empty CO2 gas cylinder from each container assembly for removal by a user; (iii) receiving a full CO2 gas cylinder into the empty container assembly; (iv) securing a received full CO2 gas cylinder in the empty container assembly; Execute.

[0013] Preferably, the system includes the step of updating the status of the container assembly when it holds a full CO2 gas cylinder.

[0014] Preferably, the unlocking step includes unlocking a plurality of empty CO2 gas cylinders from the respective container assemblies for replacement by a user. The receiving step includes receiving a plurality of full CO2 gas cylinders into the respective empty container assemblies. Preferably, the system includes updating the status of the container assemblies when holding a full CO2 gas cylinder.

[0015] The unlocking step preferably includes the step of illuminating a light emitting diode associated with each container assembly holding an empty CO2 gas cylinder. According to the present invention there is further provided a method of remotely controlling a CO2 gas cylinder vending machine system on a user device, the method comprising: displaying a remote vending machine user interface on a display of the user device; accepting user input at the user device indicating a request to interface with the vending machine system to perform a maintenance operation; transmitting the user input via a communications network to a communications interface of the vending machine system; Includes:

[0016] The vending machine system can be installed in a convenient location that is accessible 24 hours a day, and allows customers (also referred to as "users") to exchange empty CO2 gas cylinders for full CO2 gas cylinders.

[0017] The ability to exchange cylinders at a nearby vending machine, as described above, is more convenient than going to a big box store. Furthermore, using the vending machine to exchange CO2 gas cylinders minimizes reliance on the human intervention step of locking and unlocking the cage. Such vending machines also make CO2 gas cylinder theft more difficult.

[0018] Additionally, the vending machine will reliably collect and safely store returned CO2 gas cylinders, thus ensuring that an accurate stock of cylinders is maintained by the vending machine. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a vending machine system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a CO2 cylinder and a vending machine embodying the system of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 2 is a flow chart illustrating steps performed by the system shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 4a] 10A-10C are perspective views of a group of container assemblies in different states of use. [Figure 4b] 10A-10C are perspective views of a group of container assemblies in different states of use. [Figure 5a] 10A-10C are perspective views of the container assembly in different states of use. [Figure 5b] 10A-10C are perspective views of the container assembly in different states of use. [Figure 6] FIG. 5c is a cross-sectional view of the container assembly shown in FIG. 5b along line AA. [Figure 7] FIG. 5c is a perspective view of a sled of the container assembly shown in FIG. 5b. [Figure 8a] FIG. 5b is a side view of the container assembly shown in FIG. 5b with a CO2 gas cylinder partially inserted therein. [Figure 8b]Cross-sectional view of line A-A of the container assembly shown in Fig. 5b with a CO2 gas cylinder partially inserted therein. [Figure 9a] Partial transparent side view of the container assembly shown in Fig. 5b in different usage states. [Figure 9b] Partial transparent side view of the container assembly shown in Fig. 5b in different usage states. [Figure 9c] Partial transparent side view of the container assembly shown in Fig. 5b in different usage states. [Figure 10] Enlarged view of the container assembly shown in Fig. 8b in another usage state. [Figure 11] Perspective view of the enlarged end of the container assembly shown in Fig. 5a. [Figure 12a] Cross-sectional view of line A-A of the container assembly shown in Fig. 5a in different usage states. [Figure 12b] Cross-sectional view of line A-A of the container assembly shown in Fig. 5a in different usage states. [Figure 12c] Cross-sectional view of line A-A of the container assembly shown in Fig. 5a in different usage states. [Figure 13] Cross-sectional view of line A-A of the container assembly shown in Fig. 5b in different usage states. [Figure 14a] Perspective view of the enlarged end of an alternative container assembly in different usage states. [Figure 14b] Perspective view of the enlarged end of an alternative container assembly in different usage states. [Figure 15] Schematic diagram showing the components of the system shown in Fig. 1. [Figure 16] Diagram of a contactless user interface with a sensor button. [Figure 17] Flowchart for receiving user input using a contactless user interface and a voice recognition system. [Figure 18]FIG. 1 is a diagram of a contactless user interface for use with a voice recognition system. [Figure 19] 1 is a schematic diagram of a system for controlling a vending machine. [Figure 20] 1 is an example of a remote vending machine user interface. [Figure 21A] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the vending machine shown in FIG. 2 equipped with a door. [Figure 21B] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the vending machine shown in FIG. 2 equipped with a door. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] The vending machine system 10 shown in Figure 1 is used to exchange CO2 gas cylinders 12. The system 10 is advantageously embodied as a stand-alone vending machine 14 for exchange or purchase of new CO2 cylinders, as shown in Figure 2. Alternatively, the components of the system 10 may be distributed at different locations and communicate over a standard communications network using standard communications protocols.

[0021] For example, the vending machine 14 may be located in a convenient location that is accessible 24 hours a day, allowing customers (also referred to as "users") to exchange empty CO2 gas cylinders 12 for full CO2 gas cylinders.

[0022] 1, the system 10 includes a controller 16 in communication with a user interface 18, a payment system 20, and an array of container assemblies 22. Each of the container assemblies 24 is shaped to at least partially receive an end 26 of a CO2 gas cylinder and includes a locking system 28 for releasably securing the CO2 gas cylinder 12 therein.

[0023] Preferably, the system 10 further includes an authentication system 30 for verifying that the items received therein are genuine CO2 gas cylinders 12.

[0024] System 10 executes process 100 shown in Figure 3, which includes accepting user input via user interface 18 at step 102. If the user input indicates a desire to replace a CO2 gas cylinder at step 104, system 10: (a) in step 106, receiving payment from a user for the exchange of the CO2 gas cylinder 12 via the payment system 20; (b) receiving the item into a first one of the container assemblies, in step 108; (c) verifying, via authentication system 30, that the item is a genuine CO2 gas cylinder, at step 110; (d) in step 112, the locking system 28 opens the full CO2 gas cylinder 12 in the second assembly of the container assembly 24 for receipt by the user;

[0025] Steps 106 and 108 may be reversed in order. For example, step 106 of receiving payment may occur after step 108 of receiving items. In this embodiment, step 102 of accepting user input is advantageously equivalent to step 108 of receiving items. For exchange purposes, a customer simply places a used CO gas cylinder into an empty container assembly 24 to initiate the exchange.

[0026] The user interface 18 shown in FIG. 2 includes a “replace” function button 25 that is used to indicate a request to replace the CO 2 gas cylinder 12 .

[0027] The user simply places the depleted CO gas cylinder 12 into the empty container assembly 24 of the array 22, selects exchange via the user interface 18, and pays via the payment system 20. The process is efficient and convenient with minimal human interaction, and theft is not an issue.

[0028] Furthermore, returned empty CO2 gas cylinders 12 are safely stored within the vending machine 14. Therefore, there is no problem of cylinders 12 going missing without being properly collected by the cashier.

[0029] To release the CO2 gas cylinder 12, the controller 16 electrically triggers the locking system 28 to open the appropriate container assembly 24. In response to this request, the locking system 28 releases the cylinder 12 to the user.

[0030] Releasing 112 the CO2 gas cylinder 12 includes identifying the appropriate cylinder 12 to release. Preferably, the locking system 28 releases the full CO2 gas cylinder 12 from the container assembly 24 in the array 22 that is closest to the container assembly 24 to which the empty CO2 gas cylinder 12 was returned.

[0031] The system 10 preferably illuminates an LED ring light on the empty container assembly 24 that is selected to receive an empty CO2 gas cylinder 12 from the user.

[0032] In step 114, if the received user input indicates a request to purchase a full CO2 gas cylinder 12 without an exchange, the system 10: (a) receiving, in step 116, payment from a user for a full CO2 gas cylinder 12 without exchange via a payment system 20; (b) in step 118, the locking system 28 opens the full CO2 gas cylinder 12 in one of the container assemblies 24 for receipt by a user;

[0033] The user interface 18 shown in FIG. 2 includes a "New" function button 31 that is used to indicate a request to purchase a full CO2 gas cylinder 12 without an exchange.

[0034] Preferably, the step 118 of releasing the CO gas cylinder 12 further comprises: (a) utilizing a height measurement system to measure a user's height; (b) the locking system 28 identifies the container assembly 24 containing the full CO2 gas cylinder 12 that is closest to the user's height;

[0035] In doing so, the system 10 releases the cylinder 12 in the container assembly 24 that corresponds to the user's height.

[0036] - For short / disabled people, a low-positioned container assembly 24 is selected - For taller people, a higher container assembly 24 is selected

[0037] At step 120, if the user input indicates a request to return the empty CO2 gas cylinder 12 without an exchange, the system 10: (a) receiving an item into one of the container assemblies 24 at step 122; (b) verifying that the item is a genuine CO2 gas cylinder 12 via the authentication system 30 in step 124; (c) in step 126, the locking system locks the cylinder 12 of the container assembly 24; (d) in step 128, refunding the user via the payment system 20 for the return of the CO2 gas cylinder 12 without replacement; The system 10 preferably illuminates an LED ring light on the empty container assembly 24 that is selected to receive an empty CO2 gas cylinder 12 from the user.

[0038] Advantageously, the system 10 performs the additional step of asking the user, via the user interface 18, whether a receipt for the transaction is desired. The transaction results in an exchange of the CO2 gas cylinder 12, the purchase of a new CO2 gas cylinder 12, or the return of the CO2 gas cylinder 12. This may be done, for example, by generating indicia on a display. Upon receiving confirmation from the user via the interface 18, the system 10 generates a receipt for the transaction. The system 10 then performs the step of providing the receipt to the user. This is done by printing a physical copy of the receipt for the user via the user interface 18. Alternatively, if the user enters their email address via the user interface 18, the receipt is provided by email to the user.

[0039] At step 130, if the received user input indicates a request to replace the empty CO2 gas cylinder 12 with a full CO2 gas cylinder 12, the system 10: (a) verifying in step 132 that the person requesting the maintenance is authorized to do so; (b) determining, in step 134, that the container assembly holds an empty CO2 gas cylinder; (c) unlocking the empty CO2 gas cylinders from their secured positions in the respective containers 24 in step 136; (d) receiving the item into one of the container assemblies 24 at step 138; (e) in step 140, the locking system locks the cylinder 12 to the container assembly 24; (f) in step 142, updating the status of the container assembly 24 when holding a full CO2 gas cylinder 12; (g) if there are still empty container assemblies 24 remaining at step 144, waiting for the next full CO2 gas cylinder at step 138 and repeating the subsequent steps; (h) otherwise, waiting for user input in step 102; Execute.

[0040] Step 132 to identify the person making the request is: (a) requesting a user ID; (b) receiving indicia representing a user identity; (c) transmitting a password to the user's mobile computing device; (d) requesting a password from the user; (e) receiving a password as user input; (f) verifying that the entered password matches the submitted password; Includes:

[0041] Alternatively, the password is a QR code that the system sends to the user device, and the system scans the QR code from the user device.

[0042] The step 134 of determining which container assemblies 24 hold empty CO2 gas cylinders includes setting an "empty container" counter to the number of container assemblies 24 that hold empty CO2 gas cylinders. Additionally, the step 142 of updating the status of the container assemblies 24 includes the additional step of decrementing the "empty container" counter.

[0043] In step 138, if a full CO2 gas cylinder is not received within a predetermined time, such as 30 seconds, the system 10 presumes that the restacking process is complete. Alternatively, any other suitable time can be used, such as anywhere from 10 seconds to 3 minutes.

[0044] As described herein, system 10 performs steps that allow a user to interact with system 10 with minimal or no contact with system 10 and / or a vending machine 14 embodying system 10.

[0045] In particular, if step 102 of accepting user input is equivalent to step 108 of receiving the item in the first assembly of container assembly 24, the user input indicates a request for a replacement CO2 cylinder. Once the item is received (and, in some embodiments, the item is verified as a legitimate CO2 cylinder in step 110), payment is received from the user for the replacement CO2 gas cylinder via payment system 20 in step 106. The payment is received via contactless means that do not require the user to touch system 10 or vending machine 14. For example, payment may be received via a contactless payment system described below. After receiving the associated payment in step 106, system 10 causes lock system 28 to release the full CO2 gas cylinder in the second assembly of container assembly 24 for collection by the user in step 112.

[0046] Additionally, the user input received in step 102 may equate to receiving payment from the user for the full CO2 gas cylinder without exchange via the payment system 20 in step 116. In other words, if the user input in step 102 consists of the user making a payment using the payment system 20 (i.e., step 116), this is a user input indicating a request to purchase a full CO2 gas cylinder without exchange. After receiving the associated payment in step 116, in step 118, the system 10 causes the locking system 28 to release the full CO2 gas cylinder 12 in the second assembly of the container assembly 24 so that it can be removed by the user.

[0047] Additionally, the user input received in step 102 may be equivalent to the absence of payment through the payment system 20 subsequent to (e.g., within a predetermined time period) receipt of the item into one of the container assemblies 24 (in step 122 and in some embodiments where the item is confirmed to be a legitimate CO2 cylinder in step 124). Such user input indicates a request for return of the empty CO2 gas cylinder 12 without replacement. In that case, the system 10 locks the received cylinder 23 in the container assembly 24 using the locking system in step 126. The system further issues a refund to the user associated with the return of the CO2 gas cylinder without replacement. The system 10 issues the refund according to at least one of the following methods: (i) via payment system 20; (ii) displaying a barcode containing data indicative of the refund transaction on user interface 18, which the user scans with a user device (e.g., user device 87, described below) to receive the refund; and (iii) printing (by a printer associated with system 10) a receipt displaying a barcode containing data indicative of the refund transaction, which the user scans using the user device to receive the refund;

[0048] System 10 displays one or more messages to the user, suggesting appropriate user input to initiate the exchange, purchase, or return of the CO2 cylinder at step 102. In one embodiment, instructions are displayed on user interface 18 suggesting the user: (1) insert a used CO2 cylinder and process payment through payment system 20 to initiate the exchange, (2) process payment through payment system 20 to initiate the purchase of a full CO2 cylinder, or (3) insert a used CO2 cylinder and wait to initiate the return without an exchange.

[0049] In this manner, the user is prevented from touching any part of the system 10 and / or vending machine 14, except for the CO2 cylinder that the user returns, the full CO2 cylinder 12 that the user receives, and the receipt printed by the system 10.

[0050] Container Assembly 24 4a and 4b, the container assemblies 24 have a modular construction that allows individual container assemblies 24 to be easily attached and detached to the array 22. Individual container assemblies 24 can be linked together to form arrays of any size. Individual container assemblies 24 can be extracted from the array 22 for replacement or maintenance as needed.

[0051] 5a-8b, each container assembly 24 of the array 22 includes a tubular chassis 32 with an open end 42 shaped to receive and secure a CO2 gas cylinder 12 therein. As shown, the tubular chassis 32 is formed in two pieces for ease of assembly. Alternatively, the tubular chassis 32 may be any other shape capable of receiving and securing an end of a CO2 gas cylinder 12 therein. In some embodiments, the tubular chassis 32 can receive and secure either of two opposing ends of a CO2 gas cylinder 12 therein. In other embodiments, the tubular chassis 32 can secure only one end of a CO2 gas cylinder 12 (referred to as the 'secureable end') but not the other end (referred to as the 'non-secure end').

[0052] As shown specifically in Figure 7, the locking system 28 of each container assembly 24 in the array 22 includes a thread 34 that engages the CO2 gas cylinder 12 when the CO2 gas cylinder 12 is placed in the tubular chassis 32. As shown in Figures 9a-9c, the thread 34 is configured to move to a locked position relative to the tubular chassis 32. As shown in Figure 9c, the thread 34 is in the locked position when the cylinder 12 is fully inserted into the chassis 32.

[0053] The locking system 28 of each container assembly 24 further includes a rotary latch 36 that engages the sled 34 when the sled 34 moves to the locked position. A latch arm 38 secures the sled 34 in the locked position.

[0054] As shown in Figures 9a-9c, movement of the sled 34 to the locked position pulls the locking bar 40 at least partially across the open end 42 of the tubular chassis 32 to secure the CO2 gas cylinder 12 within the tubular chassis.

[0055] The locking system 28 further includes a tension spring 44 that resiliently biases the sled 34 away from the locked position. The tension spring 44 drives the sled 34 toward the open end 42 of the chassis 32 when the locking system 28 releases the CO2 gas cylinder 12, thereby allowing the CO2 gas cylinder 12 to be easily removed from the vending machine 14.

[0056] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the threads are: (a) two parallel elongated link members 46a, 46b separated at a common end by a latch bar 48 and extending along opposite faces of the tubular chassis 32; (b) two parallel short link members 50a, 50b pivotally secured at a common end to the other end of each of the long link members 46a, 46b; (c) a lock bar 40 connected between the other ends of the short link members 50a, 50b; (d) a collar 54 shaped to receive a neck portion 56 of the CO2 gas cylinder 12 when the CO2 gas cylinder 12 is inserted into the tubular chassis 32;

[0057] Collar 54 includes a pair of pins 58a, 58b that extend in opposite directions into slots 60a, 60b in each of long link members 46a, 46b. Collar 54 is configured to move relative to long link members 46a, 46b along the length of slots 60a, 60b.

[0058] When the CO2 gas cylinder 12 is inserted into the tubular chassis 32, the neck portion 56 of the CO2 gas cylinder 12 engages with the collar 54, which is then urged to move along the slots 60a, 60b toward the latch bar 48 of the sled 34. Furthermore, when the pins 58a, 58b of the collar 54 abut against the end portions 62 of the slots 60a, 60b, the cylinder 12 drives the sled 34, for example, an additional 20 mm, toward the rotary latch 36, and the latch bar 48 engages with the actuator arm 64 of the rotary latch 36, urging it toward the locked position.

[0059] The dual latch and lock action of the locking system 28 secures the CO2 gas cylinder 12 within the vending machine 14. While the locking system 28 is described above as a sled 34 that moves within the chassis 32 to latch onto the rotary latch 36 and pull down the locking bar 40, other methods of releasably securing the CO2 gas cylinder 12 within the vending machine 14 are contemplated. For example, the CO2 gas cylinder 12 may be secured within the vending machine 14 by the locking system 28 from only one end (the securable end) of the CO2 gas cylinder 12. Alternatively, the CO2 gas cylinder 12 may be secured within the vending machine 14 by the locking system 28 from either end of the CO2 gas cylinder 12.

[0060] The authentication system 30: (a) a latch sensor 66 that detects the state of the rotary latch 36; (b) a lock sensor 68 that determines the state of the lock bar 40; Includes:

[0061] The latch sensor 66 and lock sensor 68 verify that the item inserted into the tubular chassis 32 is a genuine CO2 gas cylinder 12 when the sled 34 is in the locked position and the lock bar 40 at least partially covers the open end 42 of the tubular chassis 32 to block removal of the cylinder 12.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 15, the authentication system 30 may alternatively or additionally include: 2 One or more sensors 82 communicating with the controller 16 via a C interface or GPIO, e.g.: (a) Eddy current sensor; (b) Hall effect sensor; (c) microswitch; (d) weight sensor; (e) a barcode reader; and / or (f) image sensor; Includes:

[0063] These sensors function to verify that the item inserted into the chassis 32 is a genuine CO2 gas cylinder 12.

[0064] In one embodiment, the array 22 of container assemblies 24 is configured with multiple clusters 72 of sub-arrays of container assemblies, each cluster including, for example, nine container assemblies 24. The clusters 72 are configured in a modular manner and can be separately removed from the array 22, for example, for repair.

[0065] 14a and 14b, each bin assembly 24 includes a door 86 that operates in an open and closed state of use. In closed use, the door 86 covers the open end 42 of the tubular chassis 32 and prevents external elements from entering the bin assembly 24. For example, when in the closed position, the door 86 prevents rain and dust from entering the bin assembly 24. The door is preferably IP66 rated or equivalent.

[0066] In open use, the door 86 allows full access to the tubular chassis 32, facilitating the insertion and removal of the CO2 gas cylinder 12 from the vending machine 14.

[0067] Each container assembly 24 includes an actuator (not shown) that drives the door 86 between open and closed use positions. The actuator communicates with the controller 16, which determines its operation.

[0068] The locking system 28 advantageously uses a door 86 to secure the CO2 gas cylinder 12 to the tubular chassis 32 of the container assembly.

[0069] As shown in Figure 13, if the user inserts the cylinder 12 in the wrong orientation, the locking system 28 will not be able to lock the cylinder 12 into the chassis 32 and the process will be aborted.

[0070] Contactless User Interface Alternatively, the user interface 18 is a contactless user interface 85. Preferably, the contactless user interface 85 is a hands-free interface that operates from voice commands or hand gestures.

[0071] The contactless user interface 85 includes at least one sensor button. Figure 16 shows an embodiment in which the contactless user interface 85 includes a display 35 and five sensor buttons: (i) a "replace" function button 25 used to indicate a request to replace the CO2 gas cylinder 12; (ii) a "New" function button 31 used to indicate a request to purchase a full CO2 gas cylinder 12 without exchange; (iii) a "return" function button 33 used to indicate a request to return the empty CO2 gas cylinder 12 without replacement; (iv) a "Confirm" or "OK" button 37 used to confirm that the actuated button reflects the desired operation of the user of the vending machine system 10 (e.g., so that the user can correct erroneous actuation of the sensor button); and (v) an “M” function button 39 used to indicate a request to perform maintenance to remove and replace a used CO2 gas cylinder 12;

[0072] Each sensor button is activated by a user without requiring physical contact with the button or any other part of the vending machine system 10. For example, each sensor button may be an infrared sensor button that is activated by a user placing part of their hand in close proximity to the button. However, each sensor button may also be any other sensor that is suitably activated by a user without touching it. Each sensor button may include a visual indicator, such as an LED light on or around the button, that notifies the user that it has been activated.

[0073] The contactless user interface 85 may include a proximity sensor 86 that senses when a user approaches the vending machine system 10. The proximity sensor 86 may detect the presence of a user in the vicinity of the vending machine system 10 and may only detect the presence of a user within a certain radius of the vending machine system 10. The proximity sensor 86 may include, for example, one or more of: (i) Optical sensors, such as infrared sensors; (ii) acoustic sensors, such as ultrasonic sensors; (iii) a camera or video camera; (iv) Microwave sensor Includes:

[0074] The controller 16 is configured to switch the vending machine system 10 from the low-power mode to a normal operating mode when the proximity sensor 86 detects that a user has approached the system 10. Thus, when the proximity sensor 86 detects that a user has approached the vending machine system 10, for example, by detecting an object within a threshold proximity of the vending machine system 10, the controller 16 switches the vending machine system 10 from the low-power mode to a normal operating mode, allowing the user to interact with the vending machine system 10, for example, to return, purchase, and / or exchange a CO2 gas cylinder 12. Once the user transaction is complete, the controller 16 automatically returns the vending machine system 10 to the low-power mode to reduce power consumption. In the low-power mode, some functions of the vending machine system 10, such as the authentication system 30 and the payment system 20, may be disabled.

[0075] The contactless user interface 85 may include a voice recognition system configured to receive a user's voice command via the microphone 93 and determine whether the user's voice command corresponds to a user input indicating a request to exchange, purchase, or return the CO2 gas cylinder 12.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 17, the contactless user interface 85 executes a method 1700 that includes the following steps: (i) Activating a voice recognition system (step 1702); (ii) displaying a prompt inquiring about the user's intent, i.e., whether the user wishes to purchase, return, or request an exchange of the CO2 gas cylinder 12 (step 1704); (iii) accepting a user voice command (step 1706); (iv) In step 1708, if the user's voice command corresponds to a purchase function: a. receiving payment from the user via the payment system 20 (step 1712); b. Releasing a full CO2 gas cylinder from one of the container assemblies 24 (step 1714); (v) In step 1715, if the user's voice command corresponds to a function of the exchange: a. receiving payment from the user via the payment system 20 (step 1716); b. receiving the item into one of the container assemblies 24 (step 1718); c. Verify that the received item is authentic (step 1720); d. Releasing a full CO2 gas cylinder from one of the container assemblies 24 (step 1722); (vi) In step 1723, if the user's voice command corresponds to a return function: a. Receive the item into one of the container assemblies 24 (step 1724); b. Verify that the received item is authentic (step 1726); c. issue a refund to the user via the payment system 20 (step 1728); (vii) In step 1730, if the user's voice command corresponds to a maintenance function: (a) Step 1732 verifies that the person requesting the maintenance is authorized to do so; (b) in step 1734, determining the container assembly 24 holding the empty CO2 gas cylinder; (c) unlocking the empty CO2 gas cylinders from their fixed positions in their respective containers 24 in step 1736; (d) receiving the item into one of the container assemblies 24 in step 1738; (e) in step 1740, the locking system locks the cylinder 12 of the container assembly 24; (f) in step 1742, updating the state of the container assembly 24 when holding a full CO2 gas cylinder 12; (g) if there are still empty container assemblies 24 remaining in step 1744, wait for the next full CO2 gas cylinder and repeat the subsequent steps in step 1738; (h) Otherwise, step 1704 waits for user input.

[0077] The step 1732 of identifying the requesting person includes: (a) requesting a user ID; (b) receiving indicia representing a user identity; (c) transmitting a password to the user's mobile computing device; (d) requesting the user to enter a password; (e) receiving a password as user input; (f) verifying that the entered password matches the submitted password; Includes:

[0078] Alternatively, the password is a QR code that the system sends to the user device, and the system scans the QR code from the user device.

[0079] Step 1734 of determining which container assemblies 24 hold empty CO2 gas cylinders includes setting an "empty container" counter to the number of container assemblies 24 that hold empty CO2 gas cylinders. Additionally, step 1742 of updating the status of the container assemblies 24 includes the additional step of decrementing the "empty container" counter.

[0080] In step 1738, if a full CO gas cylinder is not received within a predetermined time, such as 30 seconds, the system 10 presumes that the restacking process is complete. Alternatively, any other suitable time can be used, such as anywhere from 10 seconds to 3 minutes.

[0081] The voice recognition system is activated in step 1702. The controller 16 may activate the voice recognition system, for example, based on the proximity detector 86 sensing that a user has approached the vending machine system 10, or based on an item being received in one of the container assemblies 24. Thus, these steps may occur in more than one order, for example, with the step of receiving the item in a container assembly 24 (step 1718 or 1724) occurring before or simultaneously with the voice recognition system being activated (step 1702).

[0082] 18, the contactless user interface 85 includes a display 35, a proximity sensor 86, and a microphone 93. The display displays prompts and other messages to the user, for example, in step 1704 of the method 1700.

[0083] Advantageously, the container assembly 24 includes a worm drive instead of the rotary latch 36 .

[0084] Controller 16 In the embodiment shown in FIG. 15, the system 10: (a) a controller 16, the controller 16: (i) 1.5GHz quad-core ARM Cortex-A72 CPU; (ii) VideoCore VI graphics; (iii) 4kp60 HEVC decoder and; (iv) True Gigabit Ethernet; (v) 2.4GHz and 5.0GHz IEEE 802.11ac Wireless, Bluetooth (registered trademark) 5.0, BLE and; (vi) 2 x USB 3.0 and 2 x USB 2.0 ports; (vii) 2 x Micro HDMI (registered trademark) With terminals (1 x 4kp60 or 2 x 4kp30); (viii) USB-C for input power, supporting 5.1V 3A operation; (ix) 4GB of LPDDR4 RAM; Includes Raspberry Pi 4 Model B / 2GB (Raspberry Pi 4 Model B 2GB).

[0085] The controller 16 communicates via a bus master with a receptacle assembly 24, which is typically the set of nine receptacles closest to the controller 16.

[0086] The protocol between the controller 16 and the bus master 70 supports communication over an RS485 bus 74. The RS485 bus 74 allows data from each individual container assembly 24 to be sent to and received from the controller 16 via the bus master 70.

[0087] The system 10 supports remote updates of both firmware and applications, if necessary.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 15, the user interface 18 includes a touchscreen 78 and a touchless sensor 80, which are configured to interface with the controller 16 via respective USB and GPIO interfaces.

[0089] The controller 16 preferably communicates with the face recognition system 84 via a MIPI / DSI interface.

[0090] The controller 16 is preferably a control module that includes a central processing unit. For example, the controller 16 may include a Broadcom BCM2711 or equivalent, and the CPU for the population of nine vessels 24 may be an STM32F411 or equivalent. The central processing unit communicates with non-transitory data storage that stores instructions and cooperates with system components to perform step 100 shown in FIG. 3 .

[0091] Alternatively, the controller 16 may include multiple central processing units, each of which communicates with non-transitory data storage that stores instructions and cooperates with system components to perform step 100 shown in FIG.

[0092] Additionally, the controller may include a field programmable gate array configured to interface with the system components to perform step 100 shown in FIG.

[0093] Payment Systems 20 As shown in Figure 2, the payment system 20 includes a payment terminal that communicates with the controller 16 via a USB port or a TTL UART. The payment system 20 uses any standard system capable of point-of-sale transactions.

[0094] The payment system 20 may be configured to accept payments in cryptocurrencies (referred to as "cryptocurrency payments").

[0095] The payment system 20 may be a contactless payment system such that a user does not need to physically contact the payment system 20 (or vending machine system 10) to make a payment for a new or replacement CO2 gas cylinder 12 or to receive a refund for returning a CO2 gas cylinder 12. For example, the contactless payment system may be configured to accept payments from a user via a contactless payment platform such as Mastercard's Paypass® platform.

[0096] Vending Machine 14 As shown in Figure 2, the vending machine 14 has an open front to allow for the insertion and removal of CO2 gas cylinders. The vending machine 14 provides the following desirable advantages: - Always know the position of cylinder 12, both empty and full Transactions are real-time Data is recorded by the vending machine about each transaction, including customer information, which can be used at a later date to help measure behavioral patterns (times and demographics when customers are likely to complete a transaction) Vending machines 14 send real-time information to a central server, reporting stock levels and vending machine status The vending machine is configured to receive information from a central server that is used to control the operation of the vending machine, including real-time pricing (at any time) – the option to have different pricing in different locations. · Cameras in vending machines (face recognition) - complete transactions with customer consent Facial recognition to measure a person's height so that the vending machine can eject or request the insertion of a cylinder based on the person's height (e.g., wheelchair) - Identifying the person standing in front of the vending machine (the vending machine issues a random number and a personal key is entered into a mobile device to verify that the person is physically present) Refunds to users may be made in the form of gift cards, bank accounts, or credit / debit cards. Loyalty Card

[0097] Alternatively, the vending machine 14 may include one or more main doors 15 to protect the array 22 of container assemblies 24 from ingress of foreign matter (such as dust and water), as shown in Figures 21A and 21B. Each main door 15 has an IP66 ingress protection rating. Each main door 15 is hinged to allow access to the container assemblies 24. Each main door 15 is initially biased to a closed position that covers the container assemblies 24.

[0098] Each main door 15 preferably includes a lock (not shown) that protects the array 22 of container assemblies 24, protects the CO2 cylinders from tampering or other intentional damage, and protects them from exposure to rain and dust (e.g., if the door is blown open). The system 10 communicates with the lock and releases the door 15 upon receiving appropriate user input. For example, the system 10 unlocks the main door 15 after receiving payment via the payment system 20 for the purchase or exchange of a CO2 cylinder 12. After the user properly inserts and / or removes a CO2 cylinder 12 (as indicated by user input), the system 10 locks the main door 15. The system 10 preferably includes an actuator (not shown) that operates to open and close the door based on communication with the controller 16. The system 10 can automatically open and close the door 15 so that a user does not need to touch the door to access the array 22 of container assemblies 24 to insert or remove a CO2 cylinder 12. The system 10 can lock and unlock the main door 15 via the controller 16. The system 10 can automatically open and close the main door 15 via the controller 16 .

[0099] 21B illustrates an embodiment of a vending machine 14 having two main doors, a high main door 15a and a low main door 15b. According to this embodiment, the system 10 unlocks one of the high main door 15a and the low main door 15b based on one or both of the following: (i) one or more container assemblies 24 available to receive used CO2 cylinders 12 inserted by a user; (ii) A container assembly 24 with a full CO2 cylinder released for removal by the user.

[0100] Alternatively, the system 10 may unlock both doors 15a and 15b, for example, thereby allowing a user to select a container assembly 24 in the array 22 into which to insert a used CO2 cylinder.

[0101] Remote control of vending machine system 10 The system 1900 shown in FIG. 19 is a system for remotely controlling a vending machine system 10 for a CO2 gas cylinder 12 using a user device. As described above, the vending machine system 10 includes the controller 16, the payment system 20, and the container assembly 24. The vending machine system further includes a communications interface 89 for transmitting and receiving data via the communications network 98 and / or the wireless communications link 91.

[0102] User device 87 includes a vending machine application 88, a data store 90, a display 92, a communications module 94, and a camera 96. The user device may be a mobile phone, a tablet device, a laptop computer, or any other suitable computing device.

[0103] The system 1900 implements a method for remotely controlling the CO2 gas cylinder vending machine system 10 and includes the following steps: (1) displaying the remote vending machine user interface 200 shown in FIG. 20 on the display 92 of the user device 87; (2) accepting user input at the user device 87 indicating a request to perform at least one of the following operations in conjunction with the vending machine system 10: (a) Return of CO2 gas cylinder 12; (b) Purchase of 12 CO2 gas cylinders; (c) Replacing the CO2 gas cylinder 12; or (d) Maintenance. (3) transmitting the user input to the communication interface 89 of the vending machine system 10 via the communication network 98; (4) receiving user input at the communication interface 89 of the vending machine system 10; (5) controlling the vending machine system 10 by the controller 16 based on the received user input;

[0104] The vending machine application 88 runs on the user device 87 and allows the user to interact with it via a remote vending machine user interface 200 that is displayed to the user on the display 92 .

[0105] The vending machine application 88 is a dedicated software application that enables communication between the user device 87 and one or more servers and / or other devices over a communications network 98. The application 88 may be a native application on a user device with access to the communications network 98 or may be downloadable from a mobile software distribution platform. However, the application 88 may also be a web application (or "web app") that is accessed via a web browser on the user device 87 by downloading one or more web pages hosted by a server 99.

[0106] The vending machine application 88 may require the user to log in with user account details, e.g., account username and password, and any operations of the vending machine system 10 and corresponding transactions are tracked and stored in data store 90 and then transmitted to server 99, which again stores the user account details in its data store.

[0107] A user device 87 operated by a user communicates with a server 99 via a communication network 98. The vending machine system 10 is also connected to the communication network 98, so that the user device 87 and the vending machine system 10 can communicate with each other via the communication network 98.

[0108] The communication network 98 can be a local or wide area network, or a combination of multiple different local or wide area networks. The user device 87 includes a communication module 94 configured to exchange data over the communication network 98. The server 99 receives requests from the user device 87 related to the operation of a particular vending machine system 10. The server 99 processes the requests, communicates with the vending machine system 10, and performs the associated operations accordingly.

[0109] Alternatively or additionally, the user device 87 may communicate directly with the vending machine system 10 via a wireless communication link 91. The wireless communication link 91 may be a Bluetooth (registered trademark) , using a standard communication protocol such as BLE, Wi-Fi or Near Field Communication (NFC). A wireless communication link 91 is formed between a communication module 94 of the user device 87 and a communication interface 89 of the vending machine system 10.

[0110] 20 shows an example of a remote vending machine user interface, displayed on display 92 by user device 87. Remote vending machine user interface 200, when displayed on display 92, is configured to allow a user to interact with user interface 200 to select one or more options for operating vending machine system 10 using vending machine application 88, such as the "Purchase," "Exchange," "Return," and "Maintenance" functions described above. A user may interact with user interface 200, for example, via a touch-sensitive display, stylus, microphone, or one or more controls (e.g., mechanical buttons) of user device 87.

[0111] The communications module 94 of the user device 87 receives a remote vending machine user interface 200 from the vending machine system 10. The remote vending machine user interface 200 allows a user to provide user input related to their desired operation of the vending machine system 10 on the user device 87 rather than on the user interface 18 of the vending machine system 10. In this manner, the user can avoid touching or being in close proximity to surfaces of the user interface 18 that may have been touched by a previous user of the vending machine system 10. The remote vending machine user interface 200 is specific to the vending machine system 10; that is, each of the multiple vending machine systems 10 corresponds to its own remote vending machine user interface.

[0112] The remote vending machine user interface 200 is transmitted by the communication interface 89 of the vending machine system 10 and received by the communication module 94 of the user device 87 via at least one of the following: (a) Communication Networks 98; (b) A wireless communication link via the communication interface 89 of the vending machine system 10.

[0113] The remote vending machine user interface 200 is transmitted by the communication interface 89 only when the user device 87 is within a particular proximity range of the vending machine system 10. This ensures that the vending machine application 88 will not accept user input regarding a particular vending machine system 10 unless the user is within a particular proximity range of the system 10 where they are likely to actually interact with the system 10 (e.g., purchasing, exchanging, or returning a CO2 gas cylinder, or performing equipment maintenance). The method may include a user device 87 performing the following steps: (i) scanning with the camera 96 ​​of the user device 87 indicia that encodes a Uniform Resource Locator (URL) for the vending machine system 10 and uniquely identifies the vending machine system 10; (ii) decoding the scanned indicia to retrieve the URL; (iii) sending a request to a server 99 based on the URL over a communications network 98; and (iv) receiving the remote vending machine user interface 200 of the vending machine system 10 via a response from the server 99;

[0114] The method may include a server 99 performing the following steps: (i) receiving a request based on a URL from a user device 87; (ii) upon request, transmitting the remote vending machine user interface 200 to the user device 87 via the communications network 98;

[0115] The indicia uniquely identifying the vending machine system 10 is a barcode, such as a two-dimensional barcode, e.g., a quick response (QR) code. The indicia is placed on the vending machine 14 containing the vending machine system 10 and can be accessed by a user by scanning it using the camera 96 ​​of the user device 87. The indicia encodes a URL, based on which a web request is sent by the communication module 94 of the user device 87 to the server 99 identified by the URL. If the vending machine application 88 is a web application, a URL is associated with it, thereby granting the user access to the vending machine application 88. Alternatively, a URL (e.g., for use with a native application) may be associated with a web resource, thereby enabling the user device 87 to receive the remote vending machine user interface 200 of the vending machine system 10 when requested by the user device 87.

[0116] User device 87 decodes the scanned indicia by executing instructions stored in data store 90, such as instructions associated with stored barcode or QR code reading software. Alternatively, user device 87 may send an image of the indicia to server 99, which decodes the indicia and sends a response including a URL back to user device 87.

[0117] The user device 87 transmits a request to the vending machine system 10 to use the vending machine system 10. The request is made in response to a user input at the user device 87 indicating such a request. The vending machine system 10 receives the request from the user device 87 to use the vending machine system 10. The request is received at the communications interface 89 and communicated via the communications network 98 or the wireless communications link 91.

[0118] Upon receiving the request, the vending machine system 10: (i) determining the proximity of the user device 87 to the vending machine system 10 based on the request; (ii) determining whether the user device 87 is within a proximity threshold distance to the vending machine system based on the determined proximity; (iii) controlling the vending machine system with a controller based on further user input when the user device is within a proximity threshold distance to the vending machine system;

[0119] The proximity threshold may be, for example, 2 meters, or any suitable range within which a user may functionally interact with the system 10.

[0120] In one embodiment, determining the proximity of the user device 87 is initiated by the system 10 completing a handshake with the user device 87. For example, the system 10: (a) generating a number on the vending machine screen 78 and prompting the user to enter the number into the device 87; and / or (b) scan a QR code; and / or (c) generating a numbered SMS to be sent to a number keyed into the vending machine by the user;

[0121] The vending machine system 10 can determine the proximity of the user device 87 based on the location data included in the request.

[0122] Thus, if the user is not within the proximity threshold distance, further user input by the user to the user device 87 will not prompt the vending machine system 10 to perform further steps. This prevents the user from accidentally attempting to interact with a vending machine system 10 that is not near the user (e.g., another vending machine system in a different location that the user has previously interacted with), and prevents the user from intentionally attempting to tamper with the vending machine system 10 for fraudulent purposes (e.g., to prevent legitimate users from interacting with the system 10).

[0123] The vending machine application 88 may also process the payment, which is then communicated (e.g., via the communications network 98) to the payment system 20 of the vending machine system 10. The user device 87 performs the following steps: (i) Accept user input corresponding to payment; (ii) sending a notification of the payment to the communication interface 89 of the vending machine system 10, while the vending machine system 10 performs the following steps: (i) receiving notification of the payment at the communication interface 89 of the vending machine system 10; and (ii) the controller 16 communicating to the payment system 20 of the vending machine system 10 that the payment has been received;

[0124] Notification of the payment is sent to the communication interface 89 of the vending machine system 10 via the communication network 98 or wireless communication link 91. Once the controller communicates receipt of the payment to the payment system 20, the payment system 20 recognizes that the payment has been processed and thereby receives the CO2 gas cylinder 12 into one of the container assemblies 24 and / or releases the full CO2 gas cylinder 12 for collection by the user.

[0125] As used herein, an element referred to in the singular and preceded by the word "a" or "an" should be understood not to exclude a plurality of such elements or steps, unless the exclusion is expressly stated. Furthermore, references to "one embodiment" of the invention are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Furthermore, embodiments "comprising" or "having" an element or elements having a particular characteristic may also include additional such elements that do not incorporate that characteristic, unless expressly stated to the contrary.

[0126] Reference herein to any prior publication (or information derived therefrom) or known matter is not, and should not be construed as, an acknowledgment or admission that the prior publication (or information derived therefrom) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the art to which this specification pertains. [Explanation of symbols]

[0127] 10 Vending machine system 12 CO2 gas cylinders 14. Vending Machines 15 Main Door 15a High Main Door 15b Low Main Door 16 Controllers 18 User Interface 20 Payment Systems 22 Array of vessel assemblies 24 Vessel Assembly 25 "Exchange" function button 26 CO2 gas cylinder end 28 Locking System 30 Authentication System 31 "New" function button 32 tubular chassis 33 Return function button 34 threads 35 Display 36 Rotary Latch 37 Confirm / OK function button 38 Latch Arm 39 "M" function button 40 Rock Bar 42 Open end of chassis 44 tension spring 46a, 46b Long link members 48 Latch bar 50a, 50b Short link members 54 Color 56 Neck part 58a, 58b pins 60a, 60b slots 62 Terminal part 64 Actuator Arm 66 Latch Sensor 68 Lock Sensor 70 Bassmaster 72 Group 74 RS485 Bus 76 4G / 5G interfaces 78 Touchscreen 80 Touchless Sensor 82 sensors 84 Facial Recognition System 85 Contactless User Interface 86 Proximity sensor 87 user devices 88 Vending Machine Application 89 Communication Interface 90 Datastores 91 Wireless Communication Links 92 Display 93 Microphone 94 Communication Module 96 Camera 98 Communication Network 99 Server 200 Remote Vending Machine User Interface

Claims

1. CO ２ A vending machine system for exchanging gas cylinders, the vending machine system including a user interface, a payment system, and a controller in communication with an array of container assemblies, each of the container assemblies comprising: a CO ２ a CO ２ a locking system for releasably securing a gas cylinder therein, said vending machine system comprising: (a) performing the steps of accepting user input via a user interface; (b) if the user input indicates a request to perform maintenance, the vending machine system: (i) verifying that the user is authorized to perform the maintenance; (ii) Empty CO 2 from each container assembly for removal by the user. ２ unlocking the gas cylinder; (iii) Fill the empty container assembly with a full CO ２ receiving a gas cylinder; (iv) a full CO2 tank received in the empty container assembly; ２ securing the gas cylinder; Run each container assembly of said array includes a tubular chassis shaped to receive and secure a CO2 gas cylinder therein; The vending machine system, wherein the locking system of each container assembly in the array includes a sled that engages a CO2 gas cylinder and moves relative to the tubular chassis to a locked position when the CO2 gas cylinder is placed in the tubular chassis.

2. Full CO ２ 10. The vending machine system of claim 1, further comprising the step of updating the status of the container assembly when holding a gas cylinder.

3. The unlocking step removes a plurality of empty CO 2 cartridges from the individual container assemblies for replacement by a user. ２ 3. The vending machine system of claim 2, further comprising the step of unlocking the gas cylinder.

4. 4. The vending machine system of claim 3, wherein ten empty cylinders are released.

5. The receiving step includes receiving a plurality of full CO ２ 5. A vending machine system according to claim 3 or 4, including receiving a gas cylinder.

6. Full CO ２ 6. The vending machine system of claim 5, including the step of updating the status of the container assembly when holding a gas cylinder.

7. The unlocking step is to ２ 7. The vending machine system of claim 3, further comprising the step of illuminating a light emitting diode associated with each of the container assemblies holding a gas cylinder.

8. Verifying that the user is authorized to perform maintenance includes: (a) receiving a password; (b) verifying that the entered password matches the device password; The vending machine system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising:

9. Verifying that the user is authorized to perform maintenance includes: (a) receiving a user ID; (b) transmitting the password to a user device associated with the user ID; (c) receiving a password from the user; (d) verifying that the entered password matches the current device password; The vending machine system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising:

10. 10. The vending machine system of claim 9, wherein the password is sent to the user device via SMS or pushed to the user device.

11. 10. The vending machine system of claim 9, wherein the password is sent to a user email account accessible from the user device.

12. The password is: (a) indicia entered by the user; (b) an audio signal input by a user; and / or (c) indicia displayed on the user device that is scanned by the user interface; 12. The vending machine system according to claim 8, wherein the information is received as

13. 13. The vending machine system of claim 12, wherein the indicia displayed on the user device is a barcode or a QR code.

14. The CO ２ 2. The vending machine system of claim 1, wherein the sled is in a locked position when the gas cylinder is fully inserted into the tubular chassis.

15. 15. The vending machine system of claim 14, wherein the locking system of each container assembly of the array includes a rotary latch that engages the sled when the sled moves to a locked position, a latch arm of the rotary latch securing the sled in the locked position.

16. The movement of the sled to the locked position ２ 10. The vending machine system of claim 1, wherein the locking bar is pulled at least partially across the opening in the tubular chassis to secure the gas cylinder within the tubular chassis.

17. 17. The vending machine system of claim 1, wherein the tubular chassis includes a tension spring that resiliently biases the sled away from the locked position.

18. 18. The vending machine system of any one of claims 1 to 17, further comprising an exterior door positioned to cover the array of container assemblies to prevent intrusion of foreign objects therein.

19. 20. The vending machine system of claim 18, wherein the exterior door is releasably secured in place by the controller.

20. A vending machine comprising the vending machine system of any one of claims 1 to 19.

21. On the user device ２ 1. A method of remotely controlling a gas cylinder vending machine system, the vending machine system including a controller in communication with a communications interface, a payment system, and an array of container assemblies, each of the container assemblies shaped to at least partially receive an end of a CO2 gas cylinder and including a locking system for releasably securing the CO2 gas cylinder therein, the method comprising: displaying a remote vending machine user interface on a display of said user device; accepting user input at the user device indicating a request to interface with the vending machine system to perform a maintenance operation; transmitting the user input to a communication interface of a vending machine system via a communication network; Including, each container assembly of said array includes a tubular chassis shaped to receive and secure a CO2 gas cylinder therein; The method, wherein the locking system of each container assembly in the array includes a sled that engages a CO2 gas cylinder and moves relative to the tubular chassis to a locked position when the CO2 gas cylinder is placed in the tubular chassis.

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