Automatic drink vending machine

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an automatic beverage vending machine. The vending machine comprises at least one beverage production device operable to produce at least one beverage. The vending machine further comprises a receiving station operable to receive at least one cup outside the vending machine and move the cup to the interior of the vending machine. The vending machine further comprises a transport mechanism operable to move the cup from the receiving station to the beverage production device for receiving the beverage in the cup. The vending machine further comprises a controller connected to the beverage production device, the receiving station and the transport mechanism and operable to coordinate the operations of receiving the cup, transporting the cup and dispensing the beverage into the cup.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application claims priority from the filing date of Chinese Utility Model Application No. 2020 2244 5791.2, entitled "Automatic Drinking Station," filed with the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) on October 29, 2020. All relevant content and / or subject matter of the earlier priority application is hereby incorporated by reference, where appropriate.

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to vending machines that prepare and dispense beverages, and more particularly to an automatic beverage vending machine that automatically receives a cup from a customer, dispenses a beverage into the cup, and returns the filled cup to the customer.

[0003] In the art, automatic beverage vending machines that dispense beverages into cups are known. These automatic beverage vending machines are typically installed in commercial establishments such as shopping malls, restaurants, and cafeterias for customers to purchase and consume a beverage of their choice. Although these automatic beverage vending machines are automated, some human intervention is still required to dispense the beverage and provide the filled cup to the customer. The labor required to operate such automatic beverage vending machines increases overall costs.

[0004] Furthermore, in some scenarios, a customer may place a cup into a dispenser before it is ready. For example, a customer may accidentally place a cup with a lid on it into a dispenser. Conventional dispensers are not configured to check the readiness of the cup, which can lead to pouring the beverage onto the lid and causing confusion. Similarly, in some scenarios, a cup may not have been washed since its last use. In such cases, pouring the beverage into the cup may alter the taste of the beverage, thereby affecting the quality of the beverage.

[0005] Furthermore, conventional vending machines generally serve beverages in disposable paper or plastic cups, which not only causes environmental pollution but also wastes resources. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for an automated beverage dispenser that can perform the necessary tasks of preparing and dispensing beverages without human intervention, a need for an automated beverage dispenser that can detect when a cup placed in the dispenser is ready to receive a beverage, and a need for an automated beverage dispenser that can increase cup reuse, thereby reducing resource waste. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One aspect of the present invention relates to an automated beverage dispenser. The automated beverage dispenser is automatically operable to receive a cup from a customer, dispense at least one beverage into the cup, and return the cup filled with the at least one beverage to the customer. The automated beverage dispenser is further operable to detect a readiness status of the cup received from the customer and take necessary action depending on the status of the cup. The automated beverage dispenser is operable to use reusable cups to increase customer engagement with the automated beverage dispenser and reduce resource waste resulting from the use of disposable cups.

[0008] According to one embodiment, an automatic beverage dispenser is disclosed. The automatic beverage dispenser includes at least one beverage preparation device operable to prepare at least one beverage. The automatic beverage dispenser further includes a receiving station operable to receive at least one cup outside the automatic beverage dispenser and move the at least one cup into the automatic beverage dispenser. The automatic beverage dispenser further includes a transport mechanism operable to move the at least one cup from the receiving station to the at least one beverage preparation device for receiving the at least one beverage in the at least one cup. The automatic beverage dispenser further includes a controller connected to the at least one beverage preparation device, the receiving station, and the transport mechanism, the controller operable to coordinate the operations of receiving the cup, transporting the cup, and dispensing the at least one beverage into the cup. The automatic beverage dispenser is operable to automatically perform the steps of receiving the cup, transporting the cup, and dispensing the at least one beverage into the cup, thereby eliminating the need for human intervention. Therefore, the automatic beverage dispenser can save costs and provide beverages of consistent quality every time.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the automatic beverage dispenser further comprises an integration station that integrates the receiving station and the delivery station and is operable to receive at least one cup and / or deliver at least one cup filled with at least one beverage. The integration station is operable to receive the cup from a customer and to move the cup from outside the automatic beverage dispenser to inside the automatic beverage dispenser. Once the cup is filled with the beverage, the integration station is further operable to move the cup from inside the automatic beverage dispenser to outside the automatic beverage dispenser so that the customer can pick up the filled cup.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the receiving station, the delivery station, the integration station, or a combination of these stations includes at least one individual compartment unit operable to handle at least one cup. The receiving station, the delivery station, the integration station, or a combination of these stations may include multiple individual compartment units. Each individual compartment unit is operable to receive a cup from a customer and move the cup from outside the automatic beverage dispenser to inside the automatic beverage dispenser. Similarly, once the cup has been filled with a beverage, the individual compartment unit is adapted to move the cup from inside the automatic beverage dispenser to outside the automatic beverage dispenser.

[0011] According to one embodiment, at least one individual compartment unit includes a lock for permitting authorized removal of at least one cup. The lock is operable to restrict and permit access to the cup. The lock ensures that only authorized personnel can access the individual compartment unit and pick up a cup placed therein.

[0012] According to one embodiment, at least one individual compartment unit includes an individual compartment cup holder for holding at least one cup. The individual compartment cup holder is preferably adapted to hold a cup in an upright position. Furthermore, the individual compartment cup holder is rotatable to move between a locked position and an open position. In the locked position, a user cannot place or remove a cup from the individual compartment cup holder, and in the open position, a user can place or remove a cup from the individual compartment cup holder.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the individual-compartment cup holder includes a drip tray for receiving at least one beverage dripping from at least one cup. The drip tray may include an absorbent mesh adapted to absorb drips from the cups, thereby keeping the individual-compartment cup holder clean. The absorbent mesh used in the drip tray may be made of any liquid-absorbent material known in the art.

[0014] According to one embodiment, at least one individual compartment unit includes an individual compartment receptacle for rotating the individual compartment cup holder. The individual compartment receptacle may be attached to a bottom of the individual compartment cup holder and may include an electric motor for rotating the individual compartment cup holder.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the individual compartment receptacle is configured to rotate the individual compartment cup holder in at least one of a clockwise and a counterclockwise direction, and is operable to rotate the individual compartment cup holder through an angle of 180 degrees in both a clockwise and a counterclockwise direction to move the individual compartment cup holder between an open state and a locked state.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the individual compartment unit further comprises a detector operable to detect the readiness of at least one cup before it is moved into the automatic beverage dispensing machine, wherein the readiness of the cup may be detected based on various factors such as, but not limited to, whether a lid is attached to the cup placed in the individual compartment cup holder, and / or whether the cup placed in the individual compartment cup holder is completely empty, and / or whether the cup placed in the individual compartment cup holder is soiled with a beverage previously consumed by a customer.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the detector is connected to a control device. The control device is operable to generate an alert if at least one cup is in an unready state and to control a receiving station to transfer the cup from outside the automatic beverage dispenser to inside the automatic beverage dispenser if the cup is in a ready state. For example, the detector can communicate to the control device that the cup is in an unready state if the cup is covered, already contains a beverage, or is soiled with a beverage previously consumed by a customer. In such a case, the control device can be operable to alert the customer about the state of the cup via visual or audio means. Alternatively, if the cup is in a ready state, the detector communicates this to the control device, and the control device controls the receiving station to transfer the cup from outside the automatic beverage dispenser to inside the automatic beverage dispenser.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the automatic beverage dispenser further comprises a sensor for identifying at least one cup placed in the individual compartment cup holder. The identification information of the at least one cup includes an identification device such as identification information (e.g., by a QR code printed on the reusable cup), electronic identification information, or an identification code embedded in an RFID chip (also known as a Radio Frequency Identification tag). The sensor includes an identification tag reader, and the at least one cup includes an identification tag. The identification tag reader is adapted to communicate with the identification tag and read information stored in the identification tag. The identification tag reader may be an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) reader, and the identification tag may be an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the identification tag is configured to store information related to a customer and at least one beverage ordered by the customer. The identification tag assists the automated beverage dispenser in preparing the beverage according to the customer's preferences. Furthermore, the identification tag reader and the identification tag are configured to facilitate the customer's use of the automated beverage dispenser.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the at least one beverage production machine comprises at least one spout for dispensing at least one beverage into at least one cup, the conveying mechanism being operable to position the cup under the spout, and the beverage production machine being operable to dispense the beverage into the cup via the spout.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the transport mechanism comprises a robotic arm for transporting at least one cup to the receiving station and to the at least one beverage production device. The robotic arm may be an anthropomorphic arm and is configured to move between the receiving station and the beverage production device to transfer the cup from the individual compartment cup holder to the beverage production device and back from the beverage production device to the individual compartment cup holder.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the transport mechanism further comprises an end effector provided at the end of the robotic arm for grasping at least one cup, the end effector being adapted to hold the cup while moving it to the receiving station and the beverage production device.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the automatic beverage dispenser further comprises an automatic curtain connected to the control device, the automatic curtain operable to cover the interior of the automatic beverage dispenser and / or to expose the interior of the automatic beverage dispenser, a display mode of text / picture images.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the automated curtain includes an interactive user interface operable to receive user input and / or provide information to the user, such as, but not limited to, the customer's name, beverage availability, token number, and the like.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the automatic curtain comprises an organic light emitting diode (OLED) screen, which may be a transmissive screen configured to cover and / or expose the interior of the beverage dispenser.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the automatic beverage dispenser further comprises an order panel connected to the controller. The order panel is operable to display beverage options and facilitate beverage selection from the beverage options. The order panel may be a touchscreen that allows a customer to select a preferred beverage. Furthermore, the controller may be configured to update the beverage options displayed on the order panel based on the status of beverages available at the beverage production machine.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the automatic beverage vending machine further comprises a Point Of Sale (POS) terminal connected to the controller, the POS terminal operable to facilitate payment for the selected beverage and to dispense a receipt after payment for the selected beverage has been made.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the beverage vending machine further comprises an input panel that allows a user to input a code to facilitate delivery of at least one cup filled with a beverage to the user, the code may be a password or a quick response (QR) code that can be scanned and verified by the user via a mobile device.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the automatic beverage dispenser further includes a cup washer configured to clean the cup. The transport mechanism may be operable to move the cup to the cup washer if the cup is not clean. The cup washer may also be accessible to a customer to enable the customer to wash the cup themselves if the cup is not clean.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the automatic beverage dispenser further includes a cup holding station for maintaining at least one cup filled with a beverage at a predetermined temperature, thereby maintaining the temperature of the beverage if a customer delays removing the cup from the individual compartment unit and ensuring the quality of the beverage. Furthermore, the cup holding station can be configured to keep the beverage hot or cold depending on the type of beverage.

[0031] According to one embodiment, at least one cup comprises a reusable cup and is operable or configured for use in an automatic vending machine. For example, the reusable cup can be accepted or handled by a receiving station (e.g., an individual compartment unit), a transport mechanism, and a control device. In many cases, the reusable cup's electronic identification information (e.g., an identification tag or RFID chip) is pre-registered in the control device and recognized by a sensor. The reusable cup can be reused, thereby increasing customer interaction with the automatic beverage vending machine. Furthermore, the reusable cup reduces resource waste caused by disposable cups.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the reusable cup includes a cup body having a base, an open top at an opposite end, and a sidewall extending between the base and the open top to define a height. The cup body is made of steel (e.g., stainless steel) and coated with an industrial porcelain enamel, providing the reusable cup with durability, an elegant appearance, and a good tasting beverage when the reusable cup is used.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the reusable cup includes an identification tag for storing information related to the user and at least one beverage ordered by the user, the identification tag assisting the automated beverage dispenser in preparing the beverage according to the user's preferences.

[0034] According to one embodiment, a reusable cup includes a rubber sleeve for covering a cup body with a gap therebetween. The gap is formed between the rubber sleeve and the cup body when the rubber sleeve covers the cup body. The rubber sleeve provides softness for gripping the reusable cup, and the gap between the cup body and the rubber sleeve reduces heat conduction therebetween.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the reusable cup includes a lid adapted to fit over the open top of the cup body to cover and seal the reusable cup, the lid being provided to prevent beverage spillage.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the lid of the reusable cup is made of a transparent material. The transparent lid allows the interior of the reusable cup to be seen.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the reusable cup includes a suction cup adapted to fit into the bottom of the cup body to firmly grip the cup to a surface, the suction cup helping to securely fasten the reusable cup to a surface such as the dashboard of a car while driving.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the reusable cup includes a holder that contacts the cup body at its periphery to facilitate holding the reusable cup. The holder provides a cool area for gripping the reusable cup, even when there is a hot beverage in the reusable cup. Additionally, the holder includes means for holding a stir stick or spoon.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the reusable cup includes a temperature sensor for determining the temperature of at least one beverage in the reusable cup, allowing a user to gauge the temperature of the beverage before drinking it.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the reusable cup includes a heater for maintaining at least one beverage in the reusable cup at a predetermined temperature for a predetermined period of time. The heater may include an active heater with a local power source and / or a passive heater for induction heating.

[0041] According to one embodiment, a method of operating an automated beverage dispenser is disclosed. The method includes the step of receiving an order for at least one beverage. The method further includes another step of receiving at least one cup at a receiving station. The method further includes another step of detecting whether the cup is ready to receive the at least one beverage. The method further includes another step of generating an alert if the at least one cup is not ready. The method further includes another step of operating the receiving station to move the at least one cup from outside the automated beverage dispenser to inside the automated beverage dispenser. The method further includes another step of controlling a transport mechanism to transfer the at least one cup from the receiving station to at least one beverage production device. The method further includes another step of controlling the at least one beverage production device to dispense the at least one beverage into the at least one cup. The method further includes another step of controlling the transport mechanism to transport the at least one cup filled with the beverage to the receiving station. The method further includes another step of operating the receiving station to move the at least one cup from inside the automated beverage dispenser to outside the automated beverage dispenser.

[0042] The method further includes determining an available individual compartment cup holder for receiving at least one cup from the customer and notifying the customer of each individual compartment cup holder.

[0043] The method further includes determining an available individual compartment cup holder for delivery of at least one cup containing at least one beverage and notifying a customer of each individual compartment cup holder.

[0044] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the present disclosure, as claimed.

[0045] So that the above-mentioned features of the present disclosure can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the present disclosure briefly summarized above can be made by reference to the embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, which should be noted that the accompanying drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of the present disclosure, and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope of the present disclosure, since it admits of other equally effective embodiments.

[0046] These and other features, benefits, and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent by reference to the following figures, in which like reference numerals indicate like structure throughout the various views. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0047] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an automatic beverage dispenser according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a receiving station according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of a receiving station according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of a pigeon hole unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an exploded front view of an individual compartment unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of an individual compartment unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of an automated curtain according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a reusable cup according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a reusable cup according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an automated beverage dispenser in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a method of operation of an automated beverage dispenser according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a method of operation of an automated beverage dispenser according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a method of operation of an automated beverage dispenser according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a method of operation of an automated beverage dispenser according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a method of operation of an automated beverage dispenser according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a method of operation of an automated beverage dispenser according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 illustrates a method of operation of an automated beverage dispenser according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 illustrates a method of operation of an automated beverage dispenser according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0048] Exemplary embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: unless explicitly stated in the drawings, sizes, positions, etc. of components, features, elements, etc., and distances therebetween, are not necessarily to scale and may be disproportionate and / or exaggerated for clarity.

[0049] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing exemplary embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As used herein, the terms "comprise," "have," and / or "comprise" identify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Unless otherwise specified, ranges of values ​​include both the upper and lower limits of the range and any sub-ranges therebetween. Unless otherwise specified, terms such as "first," "second," etc. are used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, one element may be referred to as a "first element," and similarly, another element may be referred to as a "second element," or vice versa. Section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the subject matter described.

[0050] Unless otherwise specified, terms such as "about," "approximately," "substantially," and the like mean that amounts, sizes, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not, and need not be, exact, but may be approximate and / or larger or smaller, as desired, to reflect tolerances, conversion factors, rounding, measurement errors, and the like, as well as other factors known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0051] Spatially relative terms such as "right," "left," "lower," "below," "upper," and "top" may be used herein for ease of description to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature as shown in the drawings. Spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in addition to those depicted in the figures. For example, if an object in a figure were turned over, an element described as "lower" or "below" another element or feature would be oriented "above" that other element or feature. Thus, the term "bottom," for example, can encompass both an orientation of up and down. Objects may be oriented in other directions (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptions used herein may be interpreted accordingly.

[0052] Unless expressly specified otherwise, all connections and all operable connections may be direct or indirect, and likewise, unless expressly specified otherwise, all connections and all operable connections may be rigid or non-rigid.

[0053] Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. Thus, the same or similar numbers may be described with reference to other drawings even if they are not also mentioned or described in the corresponding drawing. Elements not designated with a reference number may also be described with reference to other drawings.

[0054] Many different forms and embodiments are possible without departing from the spirit and teachings of this disclosure, and therefore this disclosure should not be construed as limited to the exemplary embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0055] References herein to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" in various places in the specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments.

[0056] 1, there is shown a front perspective view of an automatic beverage vending machine 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The automatic beverage vending machine (hereinafter referred to as "vending machine") 100 can be used in establishments such as, but not limited to, shopping malls, cafeterias, workplaces, etc. The vending machine 100 is operable to automatically perform the steps of receiving a cup from a customer, preparing the beverage ordered by the customer, dispensing the beverage into the cup, and returning the filled cup to the customer.

[0057] The vending machine 100 may include a housing 102 for enclosing the components of the vending machine 100. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the shape and size of the housing 102 are not limited to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , and that other shapes and sizes of the housing 102 may also be employed. In certain embodiments, the housing 102 may be divided into multiple sections, such as a center section 104, a left section 106, and a right section 108. These sections may be formed by inserting vertical walls into the interior of the housing 102, with each vertical wall acting as a divider between two sections of the housing 102. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the number of sections depends on the number of vertical walls disposed within the housing 102. Furthermore, the housing 102 may be made of a transparent material to allow a user to view the interior of the housing 102. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the housing 102 may be made of any material known in the art and is not limited to a transparent material. The vending machine 100 may further include a cabinet 110 below the housing 102 for storing items associated with the vending machine 100. In some embodiments, the cabinet 110 may be adapted to cover wiring of components housed within the housing 102. Additionally, the cabinet 110 may include a door 112 for providing access to the interior of the cabinet 110. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the door 112 may be located on any side of the cabinet 110 and is not limited to the side shown in FIG. 1 . In some embodiments, the vending machine 100 may further include a plurality of wheels 114 for facilitating movement of the vending machine 100.

[0058] The vending machine 100 includes a beverage production device 120, a receiving station 122, a transport mechanism 124, and a controller 300 in communication with the beverage production device 120, the receiving station 122, and the transport mechanism 124. The controller 300 is configured to operate the beverage production device 120, the receiving station 122, and the transport mechanism 124 to automatically perform the functions of the vending machine 100. The beverage production device 120 is operable to prepare and dispense at least one type of beverage. The beverage production device 120 may prepare beverages such as, but not limited to, coffee, tea, milk, juice, and carbonated beverages. In one embodiment, the vending machine 100 may include multiple beverage production devices 120 such that each beverage production device 120 can function independently of the other beverage production devices 120. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the vending machine 100 may include multiple beverage production devices 120 such that each beverage production device 120 can operate to dispense a different type of beverage. For example, one beverage maker 120 may dispense tea, another beverage maker 120 may dispense coffee, and yet another beverage maker 120 may dispense juice, etc. In certain embodiments, the beverage maker 120 may store multiple ingredients for preparing a beverage when an order is received. The beverage maker 120 further includes at least one spout 126 for dispensing a beverage into a cup. For purposes of illustration, a cup may be positioned below the spout 126, and the beverage maker 120 dispenses a selected beverage into the cup via the spout 126. Furthermore, the beverage maker 120 is in communication with a controller 300 configured to operate the beverage maker 120. The controller 300 includes a memory 302 having an instruction set stored therein for operating the beverage maker 120.

[0059] The vending machine 100 further includes a receiving station 122 located on the front side of the vending machine 100. For ease of explanation, the receiving station 122 is visible and accessible to a user when the user approaches the vending machine 100 from the front. The receiving station 122 is operable to receive a cup outside the vending machine 100 and move the cup inside the vending machine 100. In other words, the receiving station 122 is operable to move a cup received from a user to the inside of the vending machine 100. In one embodiment, the vending machine includes an integrated station in which the receiving station 122 is integrated with a delivery station operable to move a cup filled with a beverage from the inside of the vending machine 100 to the outside of the vending machine 100. In other words, the delivery station is operable to move a cup filled with a beverage from the inside of the vending machine 100 to a user located outside the vending machine 100. For ease of explanation, the receiving station 122, the delivery station, and the combined station will be generally referred to as the receiving station 122. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will understand that the receiving station 122 is operable to both receive and deliver cups. Referring to Figures 2 and 3, front and rear perspective views, respectively, of the receiving station 122 are illustrated, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As can be seen from Figures 2 and 3, the receiving station 122 is operable to simultaneously receive and deliver multiple cups. Furthermore, the receiving station 122 is operable to receive and deliver each cup independently of one another.

[0060] The receiving station 122 includes at least one pigeon hole unit 130 operable to handle cups. In a preferred embodiment, the receiving station 122 may include multiple pigeon hole units 130, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. Having multiple pigeon hole units 130 allows the vending machine to simultaneously receive and deliver multiple cups, thereby allowing multiple customers to be served simultaneously. Referring now to FIGS. 4-6, a perspective view, an exploded front view, and an exploded perspective view of an individual compartment unit 130 are shown, respectively, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The individual compartment unit 130 is operable to receive a cup from a customer and move the cup from outside the vending machine 100 to inside the vending machine 100. Similarly, once the cup is filled with beverage, the individual compartment unit is operable to move the cup from inside the vending machine 100 to outside the vending machine 100.

[0061] The individual compartment unit 130 includes a pigeon hole cup holder 132 for holding a cup. The individual compartment cup holder 132 includes a base 134 that serves as a resting surface for the cup when the cup is placed in the individual compartment cup holder 132. In one embodiment, the base 134 may have a circular shape and may be positioned horizontally to keep the cup oriented horizontally. The individual compartment cup holder 132 further includes curved sidewalls 136 that function as doors for the individual compartment cup holder 132 and are configured to allow and restrict access to the interior of the individual compartment cup holder 132. The individual compartment cup holder 132 also includes a drip tray 138 for catching beverage droplets that fall from the cup. For ease of explanation, when a cup filled with beverage is placed in the individual compartment cup holder 132, a few droplets of beverage may slide off the outer surface of the cup and be collected in the drip tray 138. Additionally, the drip tray 138 may include an absorbent mesh 140 on its upper surface to absorb drips from cups, thereby keeping the single compartment cup holder 132 clean.

[0062] The individual compartment unit 130 further defines at least one individual compartment opening (pigeon hole opening) 142 (shown in FIG. 2 ) for placing a cup in the individual compartment cup holder 132. For purposes of illustration, a user can place and receive a cup in the individual compartment cup holder 132 through the individual compartment opening 142. As mentioned above, the curved sidewall 136 of the individual compartment cup holder 132 is operable to open and close the individual compartment opening 142.

[0063] The individual compartment unit 130 further includes a pigeon hole receptacle 144 attached to the bottom of the individual compartment cup holder 132 and adapted to rotate the individual compartment cup holder 132. The individual compartment receptacle 144 may include a motor bracket 146 for accommodating an electric motor 148 configured to drive the individual compartment cup holder 132. Furthermore, the individual compartment opening 142 may be opened or closed based on the rotation of the individual compartment cup holder 132. The individual compartment receptacle 144 may also be configured to rotate the individual compartment cup holder 132 in at least one of a clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction. The individual compartment receptacle 144 may also rotate the individual compartment cup holder 132 up to an angle of 180 degrees to open or close the individual compartment opening 142. For purposes of illustration, the individual compartment cup holder 132 may be rotated 180 degrees to allow access to the individual compartment cup holder 132 for receiving a cup, and may be rotated 180 degrees again to restrict access to the individual compartment cup holder 132 for moving a cup within the vending machine 100. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that each of the individual compartment units 130 is adapted to operate independently and, therefore, is capable of processing multiple beverage orders simultaneously, thereby serving multiple patrons simultaneously.

[0064] The individual compartment unit 130 may include other components to perform its functions, such as a custom flange 150 for supporting the individual compartment cup holder 132, ball bearings 152 for reducing rotational friction when the individual compartment cup holder 132 rotates, a custom coupler 154 for connecting the individual compartment cup holder 132 and the individual compartment receptacle 144, a base 156 for supporting all of the above-mentioned components, etc. Additionally, screws 158 are used to connect the above-mentioned components to form the individual compartment unit 130.

[0065] The individual compartment unit 130 further includes a detector 160 operable to detect the readiness of a cup before the cup is moved into the vending machine 100. The readiness of a cup is determined based on various factors, such as, but not limited to, whether the cup lid has been removed, whether the cup is completely empty, and / or whether the cup is soiled with a beverage previously contained in the cup. It should be noted that the factors for determining the readiness of a cup are not limited to the above, and other factors may also be considered. Furthermore, the detector 160 may detect the readiness based on various methods known in the art. In one embodiment, a camera capable of edge artificial intelligence inferencing is installed in the individual compartment cup holder 132 to recognize whether the cup lid has been removed, the cup is soiled, or the cup is empty. Furthermore, a photograph of the cup can be taken and stored in the memory 302 for verification in case of future problems. In certain embodiments, a weight sensor may be installed in the base 134 to determine the weight of a cup placed in the individual compartment cup holder 132. The detector 160 can prevent cups from entering the vending machine 100 that are half full, dirty, covered, or have other substances in the cup that could cause food poisoning or subsequent overfilling.

[0066] The individual compartment unit 130 further includes a sensor 162 for identifying a cup placed in the individual compartment cup holder 132. The sensor 162 may be an identification tag reader attached to the upper ceiling of the individual compartment cup holder 132 and configured to read an identification tag on the cup. In one embodiment, the identification tag reader may include a radio frequency identification (RFID) antenna as an RFID reader attached to the upper ceiling of the individual compartment unit 130 to read information from an RFID tag on the cup. For illustrative purposes, the identification tag may be configured to store information related to a customer as well as the beverage ordered by the customer. In particular, the identification tag may store information such as the customer's name, the customer's beverage preferences, and, specifically, information regarding the type and amount of the beverage. The identification tag may also store information regarding the type and amount of additives (e.g., sugar, milk, etc.) selected by the customer when ordering the beverage. In some embodiments, the individual compartment cup holder 132 may further include a presence sensor 164 attached to the curved sidewall 136 of the individual compartment cup holder 132 to detect whether a cup is placed in the individual compartment cup holder 132. The presence sensor 164 may be a proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of a cup in the individual compartment cup holder 132.

[0067] The vending machine 100 further includes a transport mechanism 124 operable to transfer cups from the receiving station 122 to the beverage production machine 120 and from the beverage production machine 120 back to the receiving station 122. Specifically, the transport mechanism 124 is operable to transfer cups from the individual compartment cup holders 132 to the beverage production machine 120 and back from the beverage production machine 120 to the individual compartment cup holders 132. The transport mechanism 124 includes a robotic arm 170 (shown in FIG. 1 ) configured to move between the individual compartment cup holders 132 and the beverage production machine 120. The transport mechanism 124 further includes an end effector 172 at the end of the robotic arm 170 for grasping a cup. The end effector 172 is adapted to hold the cup while moving between the receiving station 122 and the beverage production machine 120. Furthermore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the end effector 172 is not limited to that shown in FIG. 1, and that other types of end effectors may be implemented on the robotic arm 170.

[0068] The vending machine 100 further includes an order panel 174 (shown in FIG. 1 ) operable to display beverage options. The order panel 174 displays the beverage options from which a patron can select a desired beverage. In particular, the order panel 174 may be an interactive touch screen to allow a patron to select a beverage. The order panel 174 may also be operable to facilitate selection of a desired beverage from the beverage options. In certain embodiments, the vending machine 100 may include two order panels 174, one located in the left section 106 and the other located in the right section 108, as shown in FIG. 1 . It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that having two independent order panels 174 may allow patrons to independently order their own beverages. The order panel 174 may be in communication with a controller 300, which may be configured to update the beverage options displayed on the order panel depending on the beverages available at the beverage production device 120.

[0069] The vending machine 100 further includes a Point of Sale (POS) terminal 176 (shown in FIG. 1) operable to facilitate payment for a selected beverage and to issue a receipt after payment for the selected beverage. The POS terminal 176 may be adapted to accept payment via any means, such as Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payments, debit and credit cards, online banking, etc. Similar to the order panel 174, the vending machine may include two POS terminals 176, one located in the left section 106 and the other located in the right section 108. Thus, two patrons may simultaneously use the vending machine 100 in the left section 106 and the other in the right section 108. In some embodiments, both the order panel 174 and the POS terminal 176 may be integrated into a single unit.

[0070] The vending machine 100 further includes an input panel 178 (shown in FIG. 1 ) that allows a customer to input a code to facilitate the provision of a cup filled with a beverage to the customer. The input panel 178 may be a keypad for entering an alphanumeric code or a QR code scanner for the customer to scan a code received upon receipt of an order. The input panel 178 may interface with the individual compartment unit 130 such that, upon entry of the correct code, the individual compartment cup holder 132 rotates and moves from a locked state to an open state, thereby allowing the customer to remove a cup. The input panel 178 is configured to verify the customer's identity and only grants access to the individual compartment cup holder 132 if the customer's identity is verified.

[0071] Referring now to FIG. 7, a front perspective view of an automatic curtain 180 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The automatic curtain 180 is operable to cover the interior of the vending machine 100 and / or to expose the interior of the vending machine 100, a text / picture display mode. The automatic curtain 180 includes an interactive user interface operable to receive user input and / or provide information to the user. The automatic curtain 180 may present information such as, but not limited to, the customer's name, the beverage availability status, a token number, an alert message, and the like. The automatic curtain 180 may also present advertisements or interactive games for the customer. The automatic curtain 180 may be positioned on the front side of the vending machine 100, preferably above the receiving station 122, as shown in FIG. 1. In one embodiment, the automatic curtain 180 includes an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) screen, and specifically, the OLED screen may be a transmissive screen.

[0072] The vending machine 100 further includes a cup washer configured to wash cups. The cup washer may include a water nozzle for spraying water onto the cups. The cup washer may further include a soap dispenser for dispensing liquid soap for washing the cups. The cup washer may be located inside the housing 102 and may include a sink for collecting water after washing. In one embodiment, a customer may have the option to select whether or not they want the vending machine 100 to wash the cups. In another embodiment, the vending machine 100 is configured to wash all cups before dispensing a beverage into them. The transport mechanism 124 may be further programmed to pick up cups and move them to the cup washer for washing.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the vending machine 100 further comprises a cup holding station for maintaining filled cups at a predetermined temperature. The cup holding station may include a warmer or refrigerator for keeping filled cups either hot or cold. The filled cups are held in the holding station if a customer is late in retrieving the cup placed in the individual compartment cup holder 132. In such a case, after a predetermined time, the transport mechanism 124 is adapted to move the cup from the individual compartment cup holder to the holding station and maintain the temperature of the beverage at the required temperature.

[0074] 8 and 9, perspective and cross-sectional views of a reusable cup 400 are shown, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The reusable cup 400 is configured to be associated with and receive beverages from a vending machine 100. The reusable cup 400 includes a cup body 402 having a bottom 404, an open top 406 at an opposite end, and a sidewall 408 extending between the bottom 404 and the open top 406 and defining the height of the cup body 402. The shape of the cup body 402 is not limited to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, and those skilled in the art will recognize that other cup body shapes may be used. Additionally, the cup body 402 may be made of stainless steel, making the reusable cup durable and long-lasting. The cup body 402 may be coated with an industrial porcelain enamel, a ceramic coating, or other forms of nano-coating (e.g., ceramic nanoparticle coating), as well as surface treatments on both the exterior and interior of the cup body 402. The cup body 402, together with the steel body and the above coating, can provide an elegant appearance along with good tasting beverages when using the reusable cup 400.

[0075] The reusable cup 400 further includes a rubber sleeve 410 for covering the cup body 402. In other words, the rubber sleeve 410 functions as a soft cover that surrounds the cup body 402, through which a user can hold the reusable cup 400. As shown in FIG. 9 , the inner surface of the rubber sleeve 410 may include a plurality of ridges 412 arranged horizontally across the entire inner surface, forming an array of horizontal circular stripes around the periphery of the cup body 402. When placed on the cup body 402, the plurality of ridges 412 contact the sidewall 408 of the cup body 402. Each ridge 412 is spaced a predetermined distance from an adjacent ridge 412, thereby forming a gap between the rubber sleeve 410 and the cup body 402. One skilled in the art will appreciate that this gap reduces thermal conduction between the cup body 402 and the rubber sleeve 410, thereby allowing the reusable cup to be safely held when the reusable cup contains a hot beverage.

[0076] The reusable cup 400 further includes an identification tag 414 for storing information related to the customer, as well as the beverage ordered by the customer. In particular, the identification tag 414 can store information such as the customer's name, the customer's beverage preferences, and specifically, information regarding the type and amount of the beverage. The identification tag may also store information regarding the type and amount of additives (e.g., sugar, milk, etc.) selected by the customer when ordering the beverage. Additionally, as described above, the sensor 162 of the vending machine 100 can communicate with the identification tag 414 of the reusable cup 400 when the reusable cup is placed in the individual compartment unit 130.

[0077] The identification tag is typically located below the cup body 402. In a preferred embodiment, the identification tag may be a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag, particularly an on-metal RFID tag. Therefore, when the RFID tag is attached to the cup body 402, the steel body of the cup body 402 acts as an amplifying antenna for an identification tag reader located above the reusable cup 400. Furthermore, an RFID antenna 418 is provided for transmitting identification information and personal information stored in the RFID tag. The RFID tag and the RFID antenna 418 are wired via a communication line 420 for transmitting the identification information and personal information.

[0078] The reusable cup 400 further includes a lid 416 adapted to fit over the open top 406 of the cup body 402 to cover and seal the reusable cup 400 to prevent beverage spillage. The lid 416 may be adapted to fit over the open top via any means known in the art. In one embodiment, the lid 416 may snap onto the cup body for ease of use. In another embodiment, the lid 416 may be screwed onto the cup to ensure a secure seal. According to one embodiment, the lid 416 of the reusable cup 400 may be made of a transparent material that allows for viewing of the interior of the reusable cup 400.

[0079] The reusable cup 400 may further include a suction cup 422 adapted to fit onto the bottom of the reusable cup 400 to firmly grip the reusable cup 400 to a surface. The suction cup 422 may help hold the reusable cup firmly to a surface, such as a car dashboard while driving. The reusable cup may further include a cup grip 424 that contacts the cup body 402 at its periphery to facilitate holding the reusable cup 400. The cup grip 424 is adapted to provide a cool area for gripping the reusable cup 400, even when the reusable cup 400 contains a hot beverage. In certain embodiments, the cup grip 424 may include a means for holding a stir stick or spoon 426, as shown in FIG. 8 .

[0080] The reusable cup 400 includes a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the beverage in the at least one reusable cup. The temperature sensor can help a user measure the temperature of the beverage in the reusable cup and take action accordingly. Additionally, the reusable cup 400 may include a heater to maintain the beverage in the at least one reusable cup at a predetermined temperature for a predetermined period of time. The heater may include an active heater with a local power source and / or a passive heater for induction heating.

[0081] Referring now to FIG. 10, a flowchart illustrating a method 500 of operating a vending machine 100 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Additionally, FIGS. 11-18 illustrate a method of operating a vending machine 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the vending machine 100 can operate with a reusable cup 400. In another embodiment, the vending machine 100 can operate with any type of cup, for example, a disposable cup. For ease of explanation, the method 500 herein will describe operation of the vending machine 100 using a reusable cup 400. When using the vending machine 100 for the first time, a customer can purchase a reusable cup 400 from the vending machine 100. The vending machine 100 can store multiple reusable cups 400, which a customer can purchase from an order panel and / or application software installed on a smartphone. When purchasing a reusable cup 400, the customer's personal information is registered on the identification tag of the reusable cup 400 via an identification tag writer. Also, if the user has already purchased the reusable cup 400 before, the user can directly initiate the operation process of the vending machine 100.

[0082] In a first step 502, a customer may order a desired beverage using the order panel 174 or application software, as shown in FIG. 11. Once a beverage is selected, the customer may proceed to pay for the selected beverage. Payment for the selected beverage may be made via the payment and receipt panel 176 of the vending machine 100 or the application software. Payment may generate a receipt that is dispensed from the POS terminal 176 in hard copy (paper) format or sent directly to a mobile device in soft copy format.

[0083] In a second step 504 and in FIGS. 12-14, the vending machine 100 receives the cup at the receiving station. To receive the reusable cup 400, the vending machine 100 determines an available individual compartment unit 130 in the receiving station 122 and displays the individual compartment unit's identification number on the automated curtain 180 so that the customer knows where to place the reusable cup 400. Upon receiving the individual compartment unit's 130 identification number, the customer can enter the code into the input panel 178 to confirm the customer's arrival. If the codes match, the respective individual compartment cup holder 132 rotates up to 180 degrees from the inside to the outside of the vending machine 100 to receive the reusable cup 400.

[0084] In a third step 506, the vending machine 100 detects whether the reusable cup 400 is ready to receive a beverage. The readiness state of the reusable cup 400 is determined by various factors programmed into the system, such as whether the lid 416 of the reusable cup 400 has been removed, whether the reusable cup 400 is completely empty, and / or whether the reusable cup 400 contains stains from a beverage consumed by a customer during a previous use. The vending machine 100 can detect the state of the reusable cup 400 through any means known in the art. In one embodiment, edge AI inferencing is performed through the use of computer vision by individual cameras installed above the reusable cup 400 in the individual compartment unit 130 to recognize whether the lid 416 has been removed, the reusable cup 400 is soiled, or the reusable cup 400 is not empty. These measures prevent reusable cups 400 that are half-full, soiled, or covered with a lid 416, or that have other substances inside the reusable cup 400 that could cause food poisoning or subsequent overfilling, from entering the vending machine 100. Evidence photographs of the reusable cup 400 are taken and stored in a database for verification in the event of future problems.

[0085] In a fourth step 508, the vending machine 100 generates an alert if the reusable cup 400 placed in the individual compartment cup holder 132 is not ready. The alert generated by the vending machine 100 may be, for example, an alert message displayed on the automated curtain 180, such as "Please remove the lid," "Please wash the cup," or "Please empty the cup." Additionally, the vending machine 100 may generate an audio message along with the visual message in some circumstances.

[0086] 15, the vending machine 100 operates the receiving station 122 to move the reusable cup 400 from outside the vending machine 100 to inside the vending machine 100. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that in situations where the reusable cup 400 is already in a ready state, the vending machine 100 will move the reusable cup 400 directly to inside the vending machine 100. The vending machine 100 includes a sensor 162 to determine whether the proper reusable cup has been placed in the proper individual compartment unit.

[0087] 15-16, the transport mechanism 124 is operable to transport the reusable cup 400 from the receiving station 122 to the beverage production device 120. In particular, the robotic arm 170 picks up the reusable cup 400 and places it under the appropriate spout 126 to receive the selected beverage in the reusable cup 400. If the beverage is made with multiple ingredients, the robotic arm 170 moves the reusable cup to each spout 126 in a programmed sequence. For example, if a cold juice is selected by the customer, the robotic arm moves the reusable cup 400 to a spout 126 to receive the juice, and then to a spout 126 to receive the ice.

[0088] In a seventh step 514, the vending machine 100 controls the beverage maker 120 to dispense the beverage into the reusable cup 400. Based on the order selected by the customer, the beverage maker 120 prepares and / or dispenses the beverage into the reusable cup 400 placed under the spout 126 of the beverage maker 120.

[0089] In an eighth step 516 and FIG. 17 , when the beverage is nearly complete, a notification is sent to the customer via the application software. Once the beverage is filled into the reusable cup 400, the vending machine 100 controls the transport mechanism 124 to transport the filled reusable cup 400 to the receiving station 122. In particular, the robotic arm 170 receives the reusable cup 400 and places it in an available individual compartment unit 130. Information is then sent to the customer via the application software as well as the automated curtain 180 to inform them of which individual compartment unit 130 the reusable cup 400 has been placed in. In this step, the customer is required to enter a code provided in the application software to verify that the appropriate reusable cup containing the ordered beverage has been collected by the appropriate customer.

[0090] In a ninth step 518 and shown in Figure 18, the vending machine 100 operates the receiving station 122 to move the reusable cup 400 from inside the vending machine 100 to outside the vending machine 100. The customer picks up the reusable cup 400 containing the ordered beverage.

[0091] Various modifications to these embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the specification and accompanying drawings. Principles associated with the various embodiments described herein may be applied to other embodiments. Thus, the specification is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel and inventive features disclosed or implied herein. Accordingly, the present disclosure is expected to embrace all other such alternatives, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of the disclosure and the appended claims.

Claims

1. An automatic beverage vending machine, at least one beverage maker operable to produce at least one beverage; an integrated station that integrates a receiving station operable to receive at least one cup outside the automatic beverage dispenser and move the at least one cup into the automatic beverage dispenser, and a delivery station operable to deliver the at least one cup filled with the at least one beverage; a transport mechanism operable to move the at least one cup from the receiving station to the at least one beverage production device for receiving the at least one beverage in the at least one cup; a controller connected to the at least one beverage production machine, the receiving station, and the conveying mechanism, the controller operable to coordinate the operations of receiving the at least one cup, conveying the at least one cup, and dispensing the at least one beverage into the at least one cup; the integration station comprises at least one individual compartment unit operable to handle the at least one cup; the at least one individual compartment unit comprising an individual compartment cup holder operable to hold the at least one cup, and an individual compartment receptacle for rotating the individual compartment cup holder; the individual compartment cup holder includes a drip tray for catching droplets of the at least one beverage dripping from the at least one cup; An automatic beverage vending machine.

2. The automatic beverage vending machine according to claim 1, the at least one individual compartment unit includes a lock for permitting authorized removal of the at least one cup in the at least one individual compartment unit; Automatic drink vending machine.

3. The automatic beverage vending machine according to claim 1, the individual compartment unit comprising a detector operable to detect the readiness of the at least one cup before it is moved into the automatic beverage dispenser; Automatic drink vending machine.

4. The automatic beverage vending machine according to claim 3, the detector is connected to the control device; the control device is operable to generate an alert when the at least one cup is in a non-ready state, and to control the receiving station to move the at least one cup from outside the automatic beverage dispenser to inside the automatic beverage dispenser when the at least one cup is in a ready state. Automatic drink vending machine.

5. The automatic beverage vending machine according to claim 1, the transport mechanism comprises a robotic arm that transports the at least one cup to the receiving station and the at least one beverage production device. Automatic drink vending machine.

6. The automatic beverage vending machine according to claim 1, and an order panel connected to the controller, the order panel operable to display beverage options and facilitate beverage selection from the beverage options. Automatic drink vending machine.

7. The automatic beverage vending machine according to claim 1, and an input panel that allows a customer to input a code to facilitate delivery of the at least one cup filled with the beverage to the customer. Automatic drink vending machine.

8. The automatic beverage vending machine according to claim 1, further comprising a cup washer configured to wash the at least one cup. Automatic drink vending machine.

9. The automatic beverage vending machine according to claim 1, a cup holding station for maintaining the at least one cup filled with the at least one beverage at a predetermined temperature; Automatic drink vending machine.

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