A GAS CYLINDER VENDING MACHINE

Abstract

This invention relates to a cylinder dispenser (CC) with a multi-compartment and lid design that enables the safe, traceable and 24 / 7 accessible sale of LPG or similar pressurized gas cylinders and cylinder fittings. The system is equipped with independent lidded product compartments (2) located on the main body / chassis (1), each compartment holding cylinders or fittings of different sizes and types. The user selects the product via the screen (3), completes the identity verification and payment processes; in the case of cylinder sales, the empty cylinder is returned before the delivery of the full cylinder. After the return of the empty cylinder is verified, only the lid of the compartment containing the selected product is automatically opened. During the sale, the serial number of each cylinder is matched with the buyer's identification information and recorded in the database, thus ensuring the technical tracking and security of the sale. The system can operate in deposit or non-deposit sales modes; it includes a lift-type or magazine-type dispensing mechanism for secure product storage and delivery. Additionally, sensors can be found in each compartment for product presence and stock tracking, and the system can be remotely monitored and managed via GSM / 3G / 4G / 5G or internet-based communication modules. Unlike existing techniques, this invention enables the safe, traceable, and environmentally friendly supply of LPG cylinders through its multi-compartment and lidded secure structure, integrated sales process with authentication, mandatory return of empty cylinders, and remote management features.

Description

1 TARIFF A GAS CYLINDER VENDING MACHINE This invention allows for the use of LPG or similar gas cylinders (camp 5) of different sizes and types. (small gas cylinders for stoves, camping gas cartridges, boat cylinders, large household cylinders, etc.) and the safe, controlled and traceable sale of their connecting accessories and This relates to automatic vending machines with compartments and lids that facilitate distribution. Specifically, it has a multi-compartment structure, each equipped with a separate lid, for the user Product selection can be made via the selection screen, and after payment, only the relevant product will be available for 10 days. Deliveries are made by automatically opening the compartment lid during cylinder purchases. firstly, it requires the delivery of an empty cylinder, and once this process is complete, a full cylinder will be delivered. Tube vending machine systems that operate with integrated safety and control systems that open the compartment. It falls within the technical field. The invention relates to automatic vending machine technology, retail vending systems, and smart 15 Identity authentication and data recording technologies, security-controlled sales systems, and LPG. and in the field of industrial equipment for the distribution of pressurized gas containers. taking; in particular, the safe handling of explosive, flammable or high-pressure gases. procurement, supervision of sales, safe storage of products in physically separate compartments. technical 20 that ensures preservation and controlled delivery solutions are included. State of the Art Automatic vending machines are widely used around the world. 25 used to ensure that different products are delivered to the user quickly. These are systems. Traditionally, these machines were used to dispense beverages, snacks, cigarettes, and the like. It is used in the sale of small-sized products, pressurized or flammable materials. Specialized solutions for the safe distribution of LPG, propane, and butane cylinders. They are in limited numbers. Some known automated vending systems for compressed gas cylinders offer empty cylinders at 30. mechanical or conveyor systems that mandate the return of full cylinders. It has designs that are realized through this method. For example, US 5,829,630 A. The patent allows the user to first deliver the empty tube, and then the full tube will be automatically dispensed. It describes a structure that enables this. This system is a double-door lock. 2 It operates with integrated mechanisms and conveyors, but separate for each product. There is no delivery structure with compartments and lids. Similarly, international patent application number WO 2017 / 055648 A1, Equipped with sensors and contactless payment / authentication (NFC) technologies, It offers a tube distribution system in a rotating magazine structure. This system has 5 The user can access the full cylinder after returning the empty one, but the products They are stored in separate compartments, with each compartment used only for the relevant process. There is no structure in place that allows it to be opened upon completion. In addition, reverse vending systems, for example Developed in collaboration with SodaStream–TOMRA, the CO₂ cylinder exchange machines offer the user 10 You have the option to return an empty cylinder, receive a coupon, and exchange the coupon for a full cylinder. They are known. However, these systems do not directly have a compartmentalized structure with lids, It operates on a coupon-based exchange principle and is mostly for in-store use. It is being designed. When current technical solutions are examined, 15 are available along with large and small LPG cylinders. tube connection fittings are stored in separate compartments within the same system. the relevant compartment cover is opened only when the process is complete, however User authentication, empty cylinder return, and full cylinder delivery are all integrated. It appears that there is no system offering this. Furthermore, the existing systems have significant shortcomings. The part has limited functionality in terms of user interface, and the process steps are 20 structures where the process is controlled via a digital screen and recorded in a database. It is rare. Therefore, security, traceability, and user experience are all important. In terms of, the tubes and tube apparatus are in a compartmentalized and covered structure, with user identification. Integrated with verification, automatic cap opening after empty tube return 25 The need for an automated system based on this principle is clearly evident in the technical field. It is seen. Benefits of the Invention This invention enables a safe, fast and traceable method for handling LPG and similar pressurized gas cylinders. by ensuring that it is provided in this way, which is important for users and authorized institutions. It offers advantages. Thanks to its compartmentalized and lidded structure, each product has its own safe. It is stored in a secure area and delivered only when the relevant sales transaction is completed. 3 This ensures that both the products are protected from damage and the risk of unauthorized access is reduced. is being eliminated. With the user authentication system, each tube sold is linked to the buyer's information. They are being matched. This prevents possible illegal uses. while ensuring that the authorities determine who received the tubes when necessary. 5 This allows for important security oversight. The mechanism is being created. The mandatory return of empty cylinders contributes to environmental sustainability and the cylinder It streamlines the recycling process. With the deposit system, both This simplifies the cylinder exchange process for users and also prevents empty cylinders from being left unattended. or improper disposal is prevented. Within the compartmentalized structure, both large and small tubes and tube connections can be found. storage of components, providing the user with comprehensive product supply from a single point. It offers the possibility of providing different types of tubes and accessories for various needs. This can be done through the same vending machine. 15 The digital user interface and step-by-step guidance feature streamline the transaction process. making it user-friendly; payment, identity verification, empty tube return and full tube It ensures that steps such as delivery are completed fully and in an orderly manner. The invention's design minimizes the risk of the tubes falling, tipping over, or being struck. It is reinforced with a magazine structure that lowers the magazine using an elevator or magazine system. This situation is 20 It enhances both product safety and user safety. Various places such as gas stations, marinas, truck parks, campsites and markets The system, which can be positioned at various points, provides 24 / 7 accessibility, especially in emergencies. This makes it possible to obtain gas cylinders in certain situations or outside of working hours. Thus Users save time, while service providers enjoy uninterrupted sales. 25 He / She gains the opportunity. Brief Description of the Invention This invention relates to the use of LPG or similar pressurized gas cylinders of various sizes and types, and The sale of pipe fittings in a safe, traceable and 24 / 7 accessible manner. 30 It relates to a vending machine system with compartments and lids, each providing separate It stores products in multiple compartments equipped with lids; user interface. 4 After selecting the desired product and completing the necessary payment and identity verification steps After completing this process, it only opens the lid of the compartment containing the selected product. In the sale of gas cylinders, the customer is asked to return the empty cylinder before the full cylinder is delivered, and Once this process is complete, the corresponding compartment cover will open automatically. The system is sold Technical tracking is possible by matching the serial number of each tube with the recipient's identification information. 5 It offers both security and accountability. With or without a deposit. Deposit-free sales options, elevator-type or magazine-type magazine structure, and With its integrated data recording infrastructure, the invention differs from existing techniques in that it is both secure. It also offers a user-friendly tube supply solution. Explanation of the Figures The subject of this application is a "tube vending machine" shown in the attached figures. The figures are as follows: Figure 1: "A Tube Vending Machine" is installed and its covers are open. The representation of the situation is a side perspective view. 15 Figure 2: The "Tube Vending Machine" is fully installed and its covers are open. The representation of the situation is a perspective view from a different angle. Figure 3: The "Tube Vending Machine" is fully installed and its covers are open. It is a representation of the situation from another perspective viewpoint. All the drawings shown in the images are intended to facilitate understanding of the invention. It is representative and schematic in nature, prepared for the purpose of absolute scaling. It does not contain any drawings. The drawings reflect one of the application examples of the invention, and The scope of the invention cannot be limited to these drawings. Details not necessary for understanding the present invention are included in the drawings. 25 Part numbers used in drawings may be omitted or simplified. This information is provided for ease of reference and does not limit the scope of the invention. It is not of that quality. Also, the drawings are at least largely identical, the same or larger. Elements that perform the same functions in terms of size are indicated by the same reference number. 30 Without altering the technical principles of the invention, the shape, size, proportion, material, arrangement and structure All equivalent changes that can be made in this regard are included within the scope of this application. Explanation of Part References Our invention, entitled "A tube vending machine," which is the subject of this application, is shown in the attached figures. As can be seen, they are numbered, and the part names correspond to these numbers. It is given below. NO PART NAME 1 Body / Chassis 2 storage compartments with lids 3 Screens TO Gas Cylinder Vending Machine 10 Detailed Description of the Invention This invention relates to a tube dispenser (TDM), generally referred to as a tube dispenser (TDM), of various sizes. and types of LPG or similar pressurized gas cylinders, as well as cylinder fittings. 15 multi-compartment and lidded cabinets that ensure the safe and traceable sale of accessories. It relates to an automated sales system with a specific structure. The tube dispenser (TO) is mounted on the body / chassis (1), which is the main supporting structure. with lidded product compartments (2), each with an independent lid mechanism These compartments are equipped with camping stoves, camping gas cartridges, small cylinders, and boat accessories. Safe storage of gas cylinders, large household gas cylinders and their fittings. 20 Each section is accessible only after the user has selected the relevant product, made the payment, and... It can be opened after the verification process is completed. All interaction between the user and the system is located on the front of the body. This is provided via the positioned screen (3). Screen (3) provides product selection, step by step. 25 Guides for the user through transaction routing, payment and identity verification stages It also allows you to create service requests and manage the empty tube return process via the screen. and performs security verification functions. Within the gas cylinder vending machine (GV), there is a process for verifying user identity. It includes a camera and an ID number entry module. This ensures that every purchased unit... By matching the serial number of the tube with the recipient's identification information, sales transactions are recorded. 30 They are collected and made traceable by authorities when necessary. This feature prevents the tubes from being used illegally. This provides a critical security advantage in preventing its use. 6 The system can operate in both deposit and non-deposit sales modes. It is designed with a deposit system; in deposit sales, the user must return the empty cylinder to the vending machine before receiving a full cylinder. Place it in the relevant return area. Ensure the empty tube is correctly inserted into the system. After verification via sensors, the selected full tube is located. The product compartment with lid (2) opens automatically. Thus, the tube change process takes 5 minutes. It is managed in an orderly and environmentally friendly way. Tube vending machines (VT) ensure the safe storage and delivery of products. It is supported by a mechanism with an elevator-type or magazine-type magazine feed system for this purpose. This structure minimizes the risk of the tubes falling, tipping over, or being impacted, thus protecting both the product. It increases both security and user safety. 10 The working principle can be summarized in the following steps:  The user selects the tube or fitting he / she wants via the screen (3). chooses.  The system captures the user's image with the camera and uses it for authentication. It requests a Turkish Republic identity number or equivalent identification information. 15  The user completes the payment process.  If the sale involves a deposit, the user should return the empty cylinder to the vending machine's return area. It places it.  After the system verifies the empty tube, it locates the selected product. The lid of the product compartment (2) opens automatically. 20  The user receives the product. Once the sales transaction is complete, the serial number of the tube and the buyer's identification information will be recorded. They are matched and recorded in the system. If the user wishes, they can create a service request via the screen and provide their contact information. 25 can leave. Thanks to the wide range of products offered by the invention, users can choose different tubes. They can easily obtain the required dimensions and fittings from a single source. The system can be installed at places like gas stations, marinas, truck garages, supermarkets, or campsites. Suitable for placement in secure and traceable areas. 30 7 Thanks to this system, gas cylinder supply is available 24 / 7; The sales process is accelerating, waiting times are being eliminated, and technical sales tracking is being provided. This maximizes security. 10 20 30

Claims

8 REQUESTS 1. It is a tube vending machine (TVM), and its characteristic feature is;  Independent covers, each positioned on the main body / chassis (1) LPG 5 inside multi-lid product compartments (2) with mechanism or similar pressurized gas cylinders and cylinder connection fittings safely a way to ensure that it is preserved and sold Having an automated sales system,  The user enters their credentials via the screen (3) and / or identity by completing the verification procedures, the tube or fitting 10 allowing him to buy it,  The serial number of each tube sold is obtained during the sales transaction. enabling electronic matching with the received recipient identification information. and a technical surveillance system that records this information in a database. It includes. 15 2. A tube vending machine (TVM) as defined in Claim 1, and equipped with at least one camera. by having a module and recording the user's image through this camera It has a structure that ensures the sales transaction is carried out securely. being. 20 3. A tube vending machine (VT) defined according to claim 1 or 2, which handles sales transactions. It is structured in a way that can be done with or without a deposit. and in a deposit-based sales scenario, the user returns the empty tube to the vending machine's return area. a mechanism that ensures the delivery of the full cylinder after placement includes. 25 4. The tube vending machine (TVM) is defined according to Claim 1, and it ensures the safe and secure delivery of products. for organized storage and distribution, with elevator or magazine systems It has a magazine-based delivery mechanism.

5. The cylinder dispenser (TO) is defined according to Claim 1, and it is used for cylinder installation or Screen 30 allows the user to create a service request for the connection. (3) a software module that creates a service record by receiving contact information via includes. 9 6. A tube vending machine (TVM) defined according to any of the previous requirements, Determining the presence, weight and position of the product in each covered product compartment (2). there must be at least one sensor module and the stock status of this sensor data. Transferring data to the system database for security verification purposes.

7. The tube vending machine (TVM) is defined according to any of the previous requirements, and 5 a communication module that enables remote monitoring and control of the system (for example, having a GSM / 3G / 4G / 5G modem, Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and thus Sales data, inventory information, and security alerts are sent to authorized centers in real time. It can be transmitted in a timely manner. 15 25