Communication device, capsule dispensing device, and management server

Abstract

This involves retrofitting an existing capsule dispensing device to convert it into a device that allows users to obtain capsules via online payment. [Solution] A communication device to be attached to a capsule dispensing device comprising: a rotating handle rotatable by the user; a capsule supply unit that supplies capsules from a capsule storage case to a capsule dispensing port in accordance with the rotation of the rotating handle; a rotation stopper that restricts the rotation of the rotating handle from rotating; and a restriction release unit that releases the restriction on the rotation of the rotating handle by the rotation stopper in accordance with the fact that a coin inserted by the user has stopped at a predetermined position, the device comprising: a receiving unit that receives a drive instruction signal; an operating unit that operates to release the restriction on the rotation of the rotating handle in accordance with the reception of the drive instruction signal by the receiving unit; and a control unit that detects the rotation of the rotating handle or the dispensing of a capsule and returns the operating unit to a state in which the restriction is not released.

Description

Technical Field

[0006] , , , , , , <000000\3> The present invention relates to a communication device, a capsule providing device, and a management server.

Background Art

[0002] In the above technical field, Patent Document 1 discloses an article supply device that enables smooth operation of an operation unit after payment.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, the technology described in the above document does not realize obtaining capsules by online payment with a retrofitted device for an existing capsule providing device.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a technology for solving the above problems.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To achieve the above object, a communication device according to the present invention includes a rotary handle rotatably provided by a user's hand, a capsule supply unit that supplies capsules in a capsule storage case to a capsule discharge port in response to rotation of the rotary handle, a rotation stopper that restricts rotation of the rotary handle so that it does not rotate, a regulation release unit that releases the regulation of the rotation of the rotary handle by the rotation stopper in response to a coin inserted by a user stopping at a predetermined position, A communication device that can be attached to a capsule dispensing device equipped with, A receiving unit that receives a drive instruction signal, An operating unit that operates to release the restriction on the rotation of the rotary handle in response to the receiving unit receiving the drive instruction signal, A control unit that detects the rotation of the rotating handle or the ejection of the capsule and returns the operating unit to a state in which the restriction is not released, Equipped with 、 The operating unit has a reciprocating actuator, which moves to the predetermined position in response to the receiving unit receiving the drive instruction signal, and moves away from the predetermined position in response to an instruction from the control unit when it detects the rotation of the rotating handle or the ejection of the capsule. It is a communication device. To achieve the above objective, another communication device according to the present invention is: A rotating handle that can be rotated by the user, A capsule supply unit that supplies capsules from the capsule storage case to the capsule discharge port in accordance with the rotation of the aforementioned rotating handle, A rotation stopper that restricts the rotation of the aforementioned rotating handle, A release unit that releases the restriction on the rotation of the rotating handle by the rotation stopper when a coin inserted by the user stops in a predetermined position, A communication device that can be attached to a capsule dispensing device equipped with, A receiving unit that receives a drive instruction signal, An operating unit that operates to release the restriction on the rotation of the rotary handle in response to the receiving unit receiving the drive instruction signal, A control unit that detects the rotation of the rotating handle or the ejection of the capsule and returns the operating unit to a state in which the restriction is not released, A sensor that detects the ejection of the capsule, A transmitting unit that transmits a capsule ejection signal indicating that the capsule has been ejected, It is a communication device equipped with [a certain feature].

[0007] To achieve the above objective, the capsule dispensing device according to the present invention A rotating handle that can be rotated by the user, A capsule supply unit that supplies capsules from the capsule storage case to the capsule discharge port in accordance with the rotation of the aforementioned rotating handle, A rotation stopper that restricts the rotation of the rotary handle; A regulation release unit that releases the regulation of the rotation of the rotary handle by the rotation stopper in response to the coin inserted by the user stopping at a predetermined position; A capsule providing device comprising: A receiving unit that receives a drive instruction signal; An operating unit that operates to release the regulation of the rotation of the rotary handle in response to the reception of the drive instruction signal by the receiving unit; A control unit that detects the rotation of the rotary handle or the discharge of the capsule and returns the operating unit to a state where the regulation is not released; A capsule providing device incorporating a communication device comprising: And, The operating unit has a reciprocating actuator, which moves to the predetermined position in response to the receiving unit receiving the drive instruction signal, and moves away from the predetermined position in response to an instruction from the control unit when it detects the rotation of the rotating handle or the ejection of the capsule. A capsule providing device. To achieve the above objective, another capsule dispensing device according to the present invention is A rotating handle that can be rotated by the user, A capsule supply unit that supplies capsules from the capsule storage case to the capsule discharge port in accordance with the rotation of the aforementioned rotating handle, A rotation stopper that restricts the rotation of the aforementioned rotating handle, A release unit that releases the restriction on the rotation of the rotating handle by the rotation stopper when a coin inserted by the user stops in a predetermined position, A capsule dispensing device equipped with, A receiving unit that receives a drive instruction signal, An operating unit that operates to release the restriction on the rotation of the rotary handle in response to the receiving unit receiving the drive instruction signal, A control unit that detects the rotation of the rotating handle or the ejection of the capsule and returns the operating unit to a state in which the restriction is not released, It incorporates a communication device equipped with, The aforementioned communication device A sensor that detects the ejection of the capsule, A transmitting unit that transmits a capsule ejection signal indicating that the capsule has been ejected, This capsule dispensing device is further equipped with the following features.

[0008] To achieve the above object, a management server according to the present invention is A management server that performs communication via a network with the communication device, The management server that transmits the drive instruction signal to the communication device when recognizing the completion of online settlement by the user.

Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, by retrofitting an existing capsule dispensing device, it is possible to convert it into a system that allows users to obtain capsules via online payment. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a capsule dispensing device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows the external configuration of the capsule dispensing device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows the internal configuration of the capsule dispensing device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure shows the internal configuration of the capsule dispensing device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 5] This diagram shows the operation of the capsule dispensing device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 6] This diagram shows the operation of the capsule dispensing device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] This diagram shows the operation of the capsule dispensing device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] This diagram shows the operation of the capsule dispensing device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] This diagram shows the operation of the capsule dispensing device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] This diagram shows the operation of the capsule dispensing device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] This diagram shows the operation of the capsule dispensing device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] This diagram shows the operation of the communication device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] This figure shows the external appearance of the communication device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] This diagram shows the processing flow according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] This figure shows an example screen of the management server according to the second embodiment. [Figure 16]This figure shows an example screen of the management server according to the third embodiment. [Figure 17] This figure shows an example screen of the management server according to the third embodiment. [Figure 18] This figure shows an example screen of the management server according to the third embodiment. [Figure 19] This figure shows an example screen of the management server according to the third embodiment. [Figure 20] This figure shows an example screen of the management server according to the third embodiment. [Figure 21] This figure shows an example screen of the management server according to the third embodiment. [Figure 22] This figure shows an example screen of the management server according to the third embodiment. [Figure 23] This figure shows an example screen of the management server according to the third embodiment. [Figure 24] This figure shows an example screen of the management server according to the third embodiment. [Figure 25] This figure shows an example screen of the management server according to the fourth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, the components described in the following embodiments are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention to them alone.

[0012] [First Embodiment] A communication device 100 as a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 1. The communication device 100 is a device attached to a capsule dispensing device 110. The capsule dispensing device 110 comprises a rotating handle 111, a capsule supply unit 112, a rotation stopper 113, and a restriction release unit 114. The rotating handle 111 is provided so as to be rotatable by the user. The capsule supply unit 112 supplies capsules from the capsule storage case to the capsule discharge port in accordance with the rotation of the rotating handle 111. The rotation stopper 113 restricts the rotation of the rotating handle from rotating. The restriction release unit 114 releases the restriction on the rotation of the rotating handle 111 by the rotation stopper 113 in accordance with the fact that a coin inserted by the user has stopped at a predetermined position.

[0013] The communication device 100 comprises a receiving unit 101, an operating unit 102, and a control unit 103. The receiving unit 101 receives a drive instruction signal. The operating unit 102 operates to release the restriction on the rotation of the rotary handle 111 in response to the receiving unit 101 receiving the drive instruction signal. The control unit 103 detects the rotation of the rotary handle 111 or the discharge of a capsule from the capsule discharge port and returns the operating unit 102 to a state where the restriction on the rotation of the rotary handle 111 is not released.

[0014] This makes it easy to provide capsules through online payment.

[0015] [Second Embodiment] Next, a capsule dispensing device 200 according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described using Figures 2 and subsequent figures. Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the external appearance of the capsule dispensing device 200 according to this embodiment. Figure 2 shows the capsule dispensing device 200 in a two-tiered configuration, but it is also possible to stack multiple capsule dispensing devices 200 in three or more tiers vertically, and they can also be arranged continuously horizontally.

[0016] The capsule dispensing device 200 contains multiple capsules 211. Each capsule 211 is composed of two resin hemispheres joined together, and the contents can be removed by splitting the capsule 211.

[0017] The capsule dispensing device 200 is equipped with a capsule storage case 212 that can store multiple capsules. The capsule storage case 212 can be pulled out from the front, allowing for capsule replenishment even when capsule dispensing devices 200 are installed on both the left and right sides without any gaps. The front of the capsule dispensing device 200 is provided with a rotating handle 213 that can be rotated by the user and a coin slot 214. Furthermore, an ID sticker 216, such as a QR code (registered trademark) representing the identification information (ID) of the capsule dispensing device 200, is affixed to the front of the capsule dispensing device 200.

[0018] Figure 3 is a partially transparent view showing the internal configuration of the capsule dispensing device 200. The rotational axis 301 of the rotating handle 213 is connected to a spur gear 302 of the gear mechanism. The spur gear 302 rotates a spur gear 304 via a smaller gear 303 located above it, and the spur gear 304 further rotates the turntable 305 in the direction of the arrow. Three coil springs 306 extend diagonally from the rotational center of the turntable 305, and the coil springs 306 move multiple capsules 211 inside the capsule storage case 212. The turntable 305 is provided with a passage opening 361 having an inner diameter larger than that of the capsules 211, and the capsules 211 that pass through the passage opening 361 are configured to roll down toward the capsule outlet 215.

[0019] A series of structures including a rotating central shaft 301, spur gear 302, small gear 303, spur gear 304, turntable 305, and coil spring 306 function as a capsule supply unit that supplies capsules 211 from the capsule storage case 212 to the capsule outlet 215 in response to the rotation of the rotating handle 213.

[0020] Meanwhile, coins 310 inserted through the coin slot 214 fall through the coin interlocking mechanism 311 and are held in the coin holding section 307. A bevel gear 308 located on the outside (front left side) of the coin interlocking mechanism 311 rotates in conjunction with the rotary handle 213, and when the rotation of the bevel gear 308 is restricted, the rotary handle 213 is also locked. The coin interlocking mechanism 311 ensures that the rotary handle 213 rotates only when coins 310 are held in the coin holding section 307, and restricts the rotation of the bevel gear 308 so that the rotary handle 213 does not rotate when coins 310 are not held in the coin holding section 307. Furthermore, as the rotary handle 213 rotates, the coins held in the coin holding section 307 fall into a coin storage box (not shown).

[0021] As described above, the capsule dispensing device 200 is designed to perform a series of operations purely mechanically and without power supply, so that only when a coin 310 is inserted, the capsule 211 is ejected to the capsule dispensing port 215.

[0022] In contrast, this embodiment provides a communication device 350 that can be retrofitted to the above-mentioned purely mechanical capsule dispensing device 200. The communication device 350 has a size and shape that allows it to be installed near the coin holding section 307 without interfering with other gear groups or the like.

[0023] Furthermore, the communication device 350 includes a receiving unit 351, an operating unit 352, a control unit 353, and a transmitting unit 354.

[0024] The receiving unit 351 receives a drive instruction signal from the management server 370, which has detected that an online payment has been completed in which the capsule dispensing device 200 was identified by the user terminal 360 via the online payment server 380. The management server 370 communicates with the communication device 350 via the network and, upon recognizing the completion of the online payment by the user, transmits a drive instruction signal to the communication device 350.

[0025] To identify the capsule dispensing device 200, an ID sticker attached to the capsule dispensing device 200 can be used. As an online payment method, it is not limited to QR code (registered trademark) payment, but multiple payment methods such as RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) payment (NFC (Near Field Communication) payment, credit card payment, electronic money payment) may be available. This makes it possible to function as a cashless platform that can adapt to diverse usage environments such as event venues, commercial facilities, and tourist destinations both domestically and internationally. The management server 370 may collect information such as the age, gender, and nationality of capsule purchasers via the online payment server 380.

[0026] The operating unit 352 operates to release the restriction on the rotation of the rotary handle 213 in response to the reception unit 351 receiving a drive instruction signal.

[0027] The control unit 353 detects the rotation of the rotary handle 213 or the ejection of the capsule 211 and returns the operating unit 352 to a state where the restriction is not released.

[0028] The transmitting unit 354 transmits a capsule ejection signal to the management server 370, indicating that a capsule has been ejected, based on instructions from the control unit 353. At this time, the transmitting unit 354 may also transmit the capsule ejection signal with a code to distinguish whether the capsule was ejected via online payment or by inserting coins.

[0029] The management server 370 has a database containing information such as which series (type of product, e.g., character) of capsules will be provided at which locations, and their unit price (e.g., 100 yen, 200 yen, 300 yen, or 500 yen). When a contract is made with the owner or during the initial setup, the installation location (address, store name, etc.), the series configuration for each device (capsule dispensing device), and the unit price (price per capsule) are registered from the management screen and stored linked to the "capsule dispensing device ID".

[0030] The user terminal 360 obtains the capsule dispensing device ID from the ID sticker 216, and the management server 370 receives this ID and reads information such as location, series, and unit price from the database. Furthermore, if the management server 370 manages the date and time and number of capsules to be replenished, it becomes possible to display the remaining number of capsules in the capsule storage case 212 in real time, and the appropriate timing for capsule replenishment can be notified to the administrator. The control unit 353 may detect a failure in capsule ejection, and the transmission unit 354 may notify the management server 370 of the ejection failure.

[0031] Here, an example of attaching an ID sticker 216 is shown, but the present invention can also use other storage means. For example, the communication device 350 may be equipped with a storage means such as an RFID tag to store some or all of the information such as the owner's name, address, unit price, series, and number of capsules.

[0032] Figure 4 shows the coin interlocking mechanism 311 removed from the capsule dispensing device 200. The ratchet 401 and the flat plate 402 are arranged to rotate coaxially with the bevel gear 308. In other words, the ratchet 401 and the flat plate 402 are rotated only clockwise, which is the forward direction, by operating the rotary handle. The communication device 350 is positioned opposite the coin holding section 307.

[0033] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the coin-operated mechanism 311, and shows the coin-operated mechanism 311 shown in Figure 4 as viewed from the bevel gear 308 side, with the view passing through the bevel gear 308.

[0034] The ratchet 401 and the flat plate 402 are mounted coaxially with the bevel gear 308 and rotate in sync with the bevel gear 308. The ratchet 401 prevents the turn handle 213 from rotating in the reverse direction. The flat plate 402 is biased by a spring 541 connected to one end, and the other end protrudes outside the ratchet 401. If the turn handle 213 is rotated without inserting a coin in this state, the flat plate 402 rotates in the direction of the arrow as shown in Figure 6, and comes into contact with the stopper 501, stopping its rotation. In other words, the ratchet 401, and therefore the turn handle 213, can only be rotated to the point where the flat plate 402 hits the stopper 501. The flat plate 402 also comes into contact with the triangular plate 502 during rotation, but since the triangular plate 502 rotates freely around the rotation axis 521, it is biased by the flat plate 402 and rotates clockwise in the figure, and does not apply any force to the flat plate 402. In this embodiment, the flat plate 402 and the stopper 501 function as a rotation stopper that restricts the rotation of the rotating handle from rotating. However, the rotation stopper of the present invention is not limited to the flat plate 402, but includes any configuration that has the function of stopping the rotation of the rotating handle from rotating when a coin is inserted.

[0035] On the other hand, when a coin inserted from the coin slot 214 is held in the coin holder 307 as shown in Figure 7, the free rotation of the triangular plate 502 is restricted. Therefore, the triangular plate 405 biases the flat plate 402 to the right in the figure, that is, towards the center of rotation. As a result, the flat plate 402 rotates while compressing the spring 403 and moving towards the center of rotation, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, and rotates without hitting the stopper 501. Therefore, the ratchet 401 itself, and consequently the bevel gear 308, also rotate counterclockwise in the figure. In other words, the rotation handle 213 completes one rotation, avoiding the restriction on the rotation of the rotation handle 213 by the rotation stopper 404, and the ratchet 401 and flat plate 402 return to the position in Figure 4. In short, in this embodiment, the triangular plate 502 functions as a restriction release unit that releases the restriction on the rotation of the rotation handle by the rotation stopper in response to the coin inserted by the user stopping at a predetermined position. However, the de-regulation portion in the present invention is not limited to this triangular plate 502.

[0036] Figure 10 shows the state in which the operating unit 352 of the communication device 350 has operated to release the restriction on the rotation of the rotary handle 213 in response to the reception of a drive instruction signal from the receiving unit 351. The actuator 1001, which reciprocates as part of the operating unit 352, protrudes from the communication device 350 in response to the reception of a drive instruction signal from the receiving unit 351 and moves to the position in the coin holding unit 307 where the coin 310 is held.

[0037] In this state, actuator 1001 acts like a coin, restricting the free rotation of triangular plate 502. Conversely, triangular plate 405 biases flat plate 402 to the right in the figure, that is, towards the center of rotation. As a result, flat plate 402 rotates while compressing spring 403, as shown in Figures 11 and 12, moving towards the center of rotation, and continues to rotate without hitting stopper 501. Therefore, the rotation of the turn handle 213 is bypassed by the rotation stopper 404, the turn handle 213 completes one rotation, and flat plate 402 returns to the position shown in Figure 10.

[0038] On the other hand, when the actuator 1001 detects the rotation of the rotary handle 213, it moves away from the position shown in Figure 10 in response to instructions from the control unit 353 and returns to the state shown in Figures 5 and 6. In other words, the control unit 353 detects the rotation of the rotary handle 213 or the ejection of the capsule and returns the actuator 1001 operating unit to a state in which the restriction on the rotary handle 213 is not released, that is, a state in which rotation is restricted.

[0039] Figure 13 shows the external appearance of the communication device 350. The communication device 350 is equipped with a sensor 1301 that detects one rotation of the rotating handle 213. In response to the reception of a drive instruction signal by the receiving unit 351, the actuator 1001 is extended, and in response to the detection of one rotation of the rotating handle 213 by the sensor 1301, the actuator 1001 is retracted. This causes a transition from the state in Figure 5 to the state in Figure 10, and a transition from the state in Figure 10 to the state in Figure 5. The sensor 1301 may be an optical sensor that turns on and off when its optical axis is blocked by the flat plate 402. The actuator 1001 can be driven using existing mechanisms such as a motor or solenoid, and is not limited to a configuration that performs linear reciprocating motion as shown here. For example, a mechanism such as a cam that can move to and retract to the position where the coin stops by rotating with a motor may also be used. A battery or rechargeable battery can be used as the power source for the communication device 350. Because it does not require external power supply work, it can be easily installed in environments with power infrastructure constraints, such as temporary event spaces in commercial facilities or outdoor event venues. Furthermore, the communication device 350 can be easily retrofitted to various existing capsule dispensing devices, each with a different structure depending on the manufacturer, and does not interfere with the coin transport path, thus not hindering existing cash payment capsule dispensing in any way. In addition, a sensor 1301 may be placed at the capsule dispensing port 215 to detect whether a capsule has actually passed through. If capsule dispensing fails, a mechanism may be provided to drive the actuator 1001 up to three times to attempt to re-unlock, thereby improving the stability of the user experience.

[0040] It is preferable that the sensor 1301 always detects one rotation of the rotary handle 213, regardless of whether it is an online payment or not, that is, whether the actuator 1001 has been moved or not. In other words, it is preferable that it also detects when a capsule has been dispensed due to coin insertion and notifies the management server 370. In that case, the communication device 350 detects whether a capsule has been dispensed, regardless of whether it is a cashless or cash payment, and sends the result to the management server 370 for management.

[0041] The management server 370 determines that the capsule provision via online payment is complete if it detects the rotation of the rotary handle or capsule ejection by the sensor 1301 within a predetermined time after sending a drive command to the communication device 350. On the other hand, if it detects the rotation of the rotary handle or capsule ejection by the sensor 1301 at any other time, it determines that the capsule provision via cash payment is complete. The management server 370 calculates the sales amount by summing the number of capsules provided and the unit price.

[0042] Figure 14 is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow of this embodiment. First, in step S1401, the user terminal 360 obtains the ID of the capsule dispensing device 200. Specifically, when the ID sticker 216 (or NFC such as RFID) attached to the capsule dispensing device 200 is read by the smartphone, the user terminal 360 sends the obtained ID of the capsule dispensing device 200 and a payment start request to the management server 370 (S1402). In step S1403, the management server 370 provides payment start information (transaction generation / payment completion notification destination information, etc.) to the online payment server 380 and returns payment start information (payment screen / start information, etc.) to the user terminal 360 (S1403).

[0043] Next, in step S1404, the user terminal 360 sends a payment request to the online payment server 380 based on payment initiation information (payment screen / initiation information, etc.). In response, in step S1405, the online payment server 380 performs the payment processing, issues transaction identification information (payment ID), and sends the result to the user terminal 360. At the same time, in step S1407, the online payment server 380 sends a payment completion notification (including capsule provider ID, payment ID, etc.) to the management server 370.

[0044] In step S1408, the management server 370, having received the payment completion notification, sends a drive command to the communication device 350 identified by the capsule dispensing device ID. The drive command includes information such as a predetermined time for maintaining the unlocked state. In response, the communication device 350 releases the handle rotation lock restriction (by extending the actuator 1001). In other words, the lock on the rotating handle, which was previously only released by inserting a coin, is now released for a predetermined time by remote instruction. The communication device 350 may also notify the management server 370 that it has started the unlocking operation. Subsequently, the communication device 350 detects the ejection of the capsule or the rotation of the handle and, in step S1410, sends a capsule ejection notification to the management server 370. The management server 370 receives the ejection notification (S1412) and updates the management information (S1413). In other words, the management server 370 records that a capsule has been provided to the user (information such as user ID, capsule dispensing device ID, payment ID, and transaction date and time). Simultaneously, the communication device 350 performs an action to return to the restricted state (the action of retracting the actuator 1001) after a predetermined time has elapsed. The communication device 350 also performs the action to return to the restricted state (the action of retracting the actuator 1001) if the user does not operate the handle within the predetermined time or if the capsule is not ejected. The communication device 350 may also be configured to detect the type of capsule that has been ejected (the contents of the capsule) using technology such as RFID. In that case, the communication device 350 transmits an ID indicating the contents of the capsule to the management server 370, and the management server 370 can manage and display which user has acquired which capsule.

[0045] Figure 15 shows an example of an administrator dashboard screen displayed on the management server 370. The management server 370 is connected to multiple communication devices 350 via a network and can collect the number of capsules dispensed along with the ID of the capsule dispenser from the multiple communication devices 350. Dashboard screen 1501 displays the status of multiple capsule dispensers 200 in each store managed by the management server 370 (such as the remaining number of capsules for each character series). When one of these capsule dispensers 200 is identified, dashboard screen 1502 is displayed. Dashboard screen 1502 displays an integrated sales trend graph (including a breakdown of electronic payments and cash) 1521, installation location 1522, operating status of the capsule dispenser 1523, last maintenance date and time 1524, and remaining inventory (remaining / maximum capacity) by series 1525. The present invention provides an information system that enables owners to efficiently manage multiple capsule dispensers through multi-layered data visualization from the store level to the capsule dispenser level.

[0046] For example, the operating status of each device (online / offline, error status), the remaining number of capsules, and daily discharge logs may be displayed on the dashboard screen. This allows for remote monitoring of the operating status of multiple capsule dispensing devices 200, which can be used to formulate sales strategies.

[0047] Furthermore, the dashboard screen 1502 may be configured to calculate and visualize key performance indicators (KPIs) such as equipment utilization rate and customer visit rate. Specifically, the effectiveness of operations can be analyzed by displaying indicators such as equipment utilization rate (operating frequency) and customer visit rate in graph form. KPI graphs such as utilization rate and customer visit rate may also be displayed.

[0048] Furthermore, coupon information may be registered by issuing a UUID (Universally Unique Identifier) ​​for each user and transaction on the management screen. For example, a coupon may be issued to a specific user, and the communication device 350 may be controlled so that the rotating handle 213 can be rotated according to the use of the coupon.

[0049] Furthermore, it can provide various functions to support operational management, such as a mock test function for internal verification. For example, a test drive command signal can be sent to the communication device 350 from the management screen, allowing for operational verification in a test mode where no capsule is actually ejected. This function enables verification when adding new functions and operational testing before equipment installation.

[0050] As described above, according to this embodiment, by retrofitting a communication device to an existing capsule dispensing device (a so-called gacha machine), it can be converted into a device that allows users to obtain capsules via online payment. This allows, for example, the issuance of coupons in conjunction with an e-commerce site and the provision of capsules to customers who visit the store via the gacha machine. It also allows for the provision of capsules via the gacha machine by granting a wallet to customers who authenticate entry using electronic tickets at live music venues. Furthermore, coins can be issued to customers who purchase products online or offline and provided with capsules via the gacha machine. In addition, in the above embodiment, usage data such as the success or failure of dispensing, transaction ID, and time are centrally stored on a management server, enabling advanced data utilization for marketing, inventory management, O2O (Online to Offline) initiatives, and CRM (Customer Relationship Management) integration.

[0051] [Third Embodiment] Next, a capsule dispensing device according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 16 to 24. Figures 16 to 24 are diagrams illustrating the display screen on the management server 370 of the capsule dispensing device according to this embodiment. The capsule dispensing device according to this embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that the management server 370 provides more detailed information. Other configurations and operations are the same as in the second embodiment, so the same reference numerals are used for the same configurations and operations and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0052] Figure 16 shows the management screen 1600 of the capsule vending machine with the installation location specified. The owner name 1601 is displayed in the upper navigation, and the dashboard / marketing analysis menu 1602 is arranged. In the center of the screen, a list 1603 of multiple capsule vending machines installed in a specific store (e.g., Shibuya PORCO 5F) is displayed. The list 1603 shows the device name of each device, the name of the installed series, the remaining inventory of each series, and the total inventory. When the "View Analysis" button 1604 is selected, it transitions to the detailed marketing analysis screen (Figure 17) of that location.

[0053] According to this figure, by integrating the management of multiple capsule vending machines arranged in one store and making it possible to grasp the inventory status of different character series held by each capsule vending machine on the same screen, efficient inventory management and placement optimization can be achieved.

[0054] Figure 17 shows the integrated marketing analysis screen 1700 in a specific store (Shibuya PORCO 5F). At the top, the aggregated KPIs (sales this week 1701, total purchase quantity 1702, operation rate 1703) of all capsule vending machines installed at that location are displayed together with a comparison with the previous week. In the central part, the daily sales trend graph 1704 visualizes the total sales trend of multiple devices. In the settlement method breakdown section 1705 at the bottom, the type ratio of electronic settlements is displayed in a pie chart and a detailed list, showing the amount and composition ratio of each settlement method (PayPoy, PISA, BASTER, P payment, ue PAY, Maru Pay, Kiten Pay, etc.). Such a screen enables the integrated analysis of data of multiple devices in one store and makes it possible to grasp the sales trend and the customer's settlement behavior pattern on the same screen. Consequently, it can support strategic decision-making according to the location characteristics.

[0055] Figure 18 shows a multifaceted marketing analysis screen 1800 for a specific store. The "Performance by Capsule Dispenser" section 1801 at the top compares the sales of each machine in the same location (e.g., Machine A (Pakemon), Machine B (Majutsu Kaisen), Machine C (Saitama Liberation)) using bar graphs, displaying both the sales amount and the number of purchases for each machine. The "Sales by Series" section 1802 in the lower left displays the popularity ranking of all character series available in that location, showing their composition ratio and sales amount. The "Usage by Time of Day" section 1803 in the lower right visualizes the peak purchase times for the entire location in 2-hour increments using bar graphs. This display allows for cross-sectional comparative analysis of multiple machines within the same store, enabling an integrated understanding of performance differences between machines, series popularity, and demand patterns by time of day. This supports optimization of placement and inventory strategy planning.

[0056] Figure 19 shows the detailed management and dedicated analysis screen 1900 for an individual capsule dispensing device. In the upper management information section 1, daily sales trends are visualized using a two-line graph 1901 for electronic and cash payments, and today's sales 1902 and the battery level 1903 of the communication device shown in the first and second embodiments are displayed. Furthermore, operational information 1904, including the installation location, operating status, and last maintenance date and time, and the inventory status (remaining quantity / maximum capacity) 1905 of the series (e.g., Pakemon) held by the device are displayed. Operation buttons 1906 and 1907 for maintenance start and inventory replenishment record are located here. In the lower dedicated analysis section 1908, the sales, number of purchases, and average unit price for the device this week are displayed along with a comparison to the previous week, and the daily sales trend for the past 7 days is visualized in graph 1909. This screen display allows for integrated management and analysis of detailed sales trends, payment method breakdowns, operational status, and inventory status at the individual device level. It can support precise performance evaluation and maintenance planning at the individual device level.

[0057] Figure 20 shows the detailed marketing analysis screen 2000 for an individual capsule dispensing device. The "Payment Method Breakdown" section 2001 at the top visualizes the types of electronic payment methods used by the device in a pie chart and detailed list, displaying the amount and percentage of each payment method. The "Purchase Frequency by Time of Day" section 2002 in the left-center shows the peak purchase times in 2-hour increments using a bar graph. The "Customer Attributes" section 2003 in the right-center visualizes the age and gender distribution using a horizontal bar graph. The "Inventory Efficiency" section 2004 at the bottom displays the current inventory level, average sales speed (units / day), predicted number of days until stockout, and last replenishment date, quantifying the relationship between the replenishment cycle and sales speed. This screen display enables integrated analysis of payment behavior, demand by time of day, customer attributes, and inventory turnover rate at the individual device level. It supports understanding target customers and optimizing inventory at the device level.

[0058] Figure 21 shows the top-level marketing analysis screen 2100, which integrates data from all owners or all stores. At the top is a navigation bar 2101 for switching between the dashboard and marketing analysis, displaying integrated KPIs (weekly sales, total purchases, average customer spending, utilization rate) for all stores and capsule dispensers, along with a comparison to the previous week. Tab-based navigation (overview, payment, location-based, customer analysis) provides multiple analytical perspectives. The center displays a graph 2102 showing overall sales trends for the past seven days. The lower left displays the character popularity ranking 2103 for all series, sorted by sales amount, while the right visualizes the combined purchase patterns by time of day for all stores in a bar graph 2104 with two-hour intervals. This screen display allows for integrated analysis of data from multiple stores and devices at the highest level, providing an overview of overall organizational sales trends, popular series (popular product types), and demand by time of day. Ultimately, this supports strategic decision-making by management and company-wide optimization of product placement.

[0059] Figure 22 shows the detailed screen 2200 of the overall marketing analysis, in which the payment tab is selected by the upper tab navigation 2201 (Overview, Payment, By Location, Customer Analysis). In the "Breakdown of Payment Methods" section 2202, the types of electronic payment methods in all stores and all devices are visualized in a pie chart and a detailed list, and the cumulative amount and composition ratio of each payment method are displayed. In the lower "Trends by Payment Method" section 2203, the change trends of payment methods in the past 7 days are analyzed, and the aggregated data by payment category such as the most used payment method (e.g., PayPoy 36%), total credit cards (PISA + BASTER 38%), total QR code (registered trademark) payments (PayPoy + P Payment + uePAY + Xitian Pay 57%), and electronic money (Maru Pay 5%) are displayed. Such a screen display enables detailed analysis of the payment behavior of the entire organization and visualization of the usage trends of payment methods and the penetration rate by category. Consequently, it can support the formulation of strategies for optimizing the payment infrastructure and improving customer convenience. [[ID=I]]

[0060] Figure 23 shows the detailed screen 2300 of the overall marketing analysis, in which the tab by location is selected by the upper tab navigation 2301 (Overview, Payment, By Location, Customer Analysis). As the "Sales Ranking by Location", the performance of the top 5 stores is compared and displayed in a horizontal bar graph 2302, and the sales amount and the number of installed devices of each store are displayed together (e.g., Shibuya PORCO 5F \82,400 (3 units), Dome Passage G \71,200 (5 units), etc.).

[0061] Figure 24 shows the detailed screen 2400 of the overall marketing analysis, in which the customer analysis tab 2401 is selected by the upper tab navigation (Overview, Payment, By Location, Customer Analysis). As the customer attribute data integrated across all stores, the age distribution is displayed in a horizontal bar graph 2402 on the left side, and the gender distribution 2403 is displayed on the right side. Further below, the repeat situation of customers is visualized in a horizontal bar graph 2404 as the purchase frequency distribution. Such a screen display enables relative comparison of the sales performance of multiple stores and statistical analysis of the customer attributes and purchase frequency of the entire organization. Consequently, it can support the optimization of the store layout strategy and the formulation of measures to improve customer loyalty.

[0062] [Fourth Embodiment] Next, a capsule dispensing device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 25. Figure 25 is a diagram illustrating the display screen on the management server 370 of the capsule dispensing device according to this embodiment. The capsule dispensing device according to this embodiment differs from the third embodiment in that the management server 370 provides information using AI. Other configurations and operations are the same as in the second embodiment, so the same reference numerals are used for the same configurations and operations and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0063] Figure 25 shows the detailed screen 2500 of the overall marketing analysis, with the AI ​​analysis tab 2501 selected via the top tab navigation.

[0064] This section displays the overall trend analysis section 2502, the series-specific AI recommendation section 2503, and the recommended series suggestion section 2504.

[0065] The overall trend analysis section 2502 displays demand forecasts, inventory optimization, sales forecasts, and payment trends, while the series-specific AI recommendation section 2503 lists series that are expected to see increased sales.

[0066] Furthermore, in the recommended series suggestion section 2504, the AI ​​suggests the most efficient and profitable series based on the specific location where the capsule dispensing device will be installed.

[0067] For example, the system learns the correlation between the characteristics of locations where capsule dispensers are placed nationwide (such as whether they are in front of a train station, inside a department store, the type of customers, and foot traffic at different times of the day) and past KPI data, and then suggests recommended series based on the installation location. In other words, it determines the probability of which character toys in capsules will increase sales at that particular location. This kind of screen display can help optimize series placement strategies.

[0068] [Other embodiments] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Various modifications to the structure and details of the present invention can be made, as can be understood by those skilled in the art within the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, any system or apparatus that combines the separate features included in each embodiment is also within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0069] Furthermore, the present invention may be applied to a system composed of multiple devices or to a single device. Moreover, the present invention is also applicable when an information processing program that realizes the functions of the embodiment is supplied to a system or device and executed by a built-in processor. The technical scope of the present invention includes programs installed on a computer to realize the functions of the present invention on a computer, or a medium storing such a program, a server that downloads such a program, and a processor that executes such a program. In particular, at least a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing a program that causes a computer to execute the processing steps included in the embodiments described above is included in the technical scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A rotating handle that can be rotated by the user, A capsule supply unit that supplies capsules from the capsule storage case to the capsule discharge port in accordance with the rotation of the aforementioned rotating handle, A rotation stopper that restricts the rotation of the aforementioned rotating handle, A release unit that releases the restriction on the rotation of the rotating handle by the rotation stopper when a coin inserted by the user stops in a predetermined position, A communication device that can be attached to a capsule dispensing device equipped with, A receiving unit that receives a drive instruction signal, An operating unit that operates to release the restriction on the rotation of the rotary handle in response to the receiving unit receiving the drive instruction signal, A control unit that detects the rotation of the rotating handle or the ejection of the capsule and returns the operating unit to a state in which the restriction is not released, Equipped with, The operating unit has a reciprocating actuator, the actuator is a communication device that moves to the predetermined position in response to the receiving unit receiving the drive instruction signal, and moves away from the predetermined position in response to an instruction from the control unit when it detects the rotation of the rotating handle or the ejection of the capsule.

2. A rotating handle that can be rotated by the user, A capsule supply unit that supplies capsules from the capsule storage case to the capsule discharge port in accordance with the rotation of the aforementioned rotating handle, A rotation stopper that restricts the rotation of the aforementioned rotating handle, A release unit that releases the restriction on the rotation of the rotating handle by the rotation stopper when a coin inserted by the user stops in a predetermined position, A communication device that can be attached to a capsule dispensing device equipped with, A receiving unit that receives a drive instruction signal, An operating unit that operates to release the restriction on the rotation of the rotary handle in response to the receiving unit receiving the drive instruction signal, A control unit that detects the rotation of the rotating handle or the ejection of the capsule and returns the operating unit to a state in which the restriction is not released, A sensor that detects the ejection of the capsule, A transmitting unit that transmits a capsule ejection signal indicating that the capsule has been ejected, A communication device equipped with [a specific feature / feature].

3. A rotating handle that can be rotated by the user, A capsule supply unit that supplies capsules from the capsule storage case to the capsule discharge port in accordance with the rotation of the aforementioned rotating handle, A rotation stopper that restricts the rotation of the aforementioned rotating handle, A release unit that releases the restriction on the rotation of the rotating handle by the rotation stopper when a coin inserted by the user stops in a predetermined position, A capsule dispensing device equipped with, A receiving unit that receives a drive instruction signal, An operating unit that operates to release the restriction on the rotation of the rotary handle in response to the receiving unit receiving the drive instruction signal, A control unit that detects the rotation of the rotating handle or the ejection of the capsule and returns the operating unit to a state in which the restriction is not released, A capsule dispensing device incorporating a communication device equipped with, The operating unit has a reciprocating actuator, and the actuator moves to the predetermined position in response to the receiving unit receiving the drive instruction signal, and moves away from the predetermined position in response to an instruction from the control unit when it detects the rotation of the rotating handle or the ejection of the capsule.

4. A rotating handle that can be rotated by the user, A capsule supply unit that supplies capsules from the capsule storage case to the capsule discharge port in accordance with the rotation of the aforementioned rotating handle, A rotation stopper that restricts the rotation of the aforementioned rotating handle, A release unit that releases the restriction on the rotation of the rotating handle by the rotation stopper when a coin inserted by the user stops in a predetermined position, A capsule dispensing device equipped with, A receiving unit that receives a drive instruction signal, An operating unit that operates to release the restriction on the rotation of the rotary handle in response to the receiving unit receiving the drive instruction signal, A control unit that detects the rotation of the rotating handle or the ejection of the capsule and returns the operating unit to a state in which the restriction is not released, It incorporates a communication device equipped with, The aforementioned communication device A sensor that detects the ejection of the capsule, A transmitting unit that transmits a capsule ejection signal indicating that the capsule has been ejected, A capsule dispensing device further equipped with [features / features].

5. A management server that communicates with the communication device described in claim 1 or 2 via a network, A management server that transmits the drive instruction signal to the communication device when it recognizes that the user has completed an online payment.

6. The management server according to claim 5, further comprising a database that stores the installation location, the type of product provided in the capsule, and the unit price linked to the identification information of the capsule dispensing device.

7. The management server according to claim 6, which receives an ejection notification from the communication device that notifies the ejection of the capsule, stores the number of capsules dispensed and sales in the capsule dispensing device in the database, and displays them according to the user's request.

8. The management server according to claim 7, which stores the date and time and number of capsules replenished in the capsule dispensing device in the database, and notifies the administrator of the appropriate timing for replenishing capsules.

9. The management server according to claim 7, which displays online payment sales and cash payment sales in a manner that allows for identification.

10. The management server according to claim 7, which collects information from multiple communication devices and displays at least one of the following: age distribution of capsule purchasers, gender distribution, repeat purchase status, average sales speed, predicted number of days until stockout, popular product types, sales by time of day and location, and demand forecast.

11. The management server according to claim 7, which proposes the type of product that will generate the most efficient profit based on the installation location of the capsule dispensing device.

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