Dispensing system including dispensing device and formulation information management method using dispensing system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a formulation information management method performed by a dispensing system including a dispensing device configured to discharge a formulation by mounting a cartridge module storing the formulation. According to the present invention, information on the remaining amount of a formulation remaining in a cartridge module detached from the dispensing device is reflected and updated in information on the remaining amount of a formulation stored in a cartridge module newly mounted in the dispensing device, so that the convenience of management and the use convenience of a user in managing information on the remaining amount of a formulation can be improved.

Description

Dispensing system including a dispensing device and a method for managing formulation information using the dispensing system

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for managing formulation information, and more particularly, to a method for managing formulation information performed by a dispensing system including a dispensing device configured to discharge a formulation by mounting a cartridge module containing the formulation.

[0002] As the nutritional supplement market grows and user needs diversify, personalized nutritional services are gaining popularity. These services analyze users' health status and provide appropriate nutritional supplements based on their health status. These services collect health information through questionnaires and other means, analyze this information to determine the nutritional needs, and then provide a combination of supplements that meet those needs.

[0003] Meanwhile, a dispensing device capable of providing such a service, which is equipped with a plurality of cartridges containing nutrients and configured to dispense an appropriate amount of the nutrients contained in each cartridge, is disclosed as a prior art. The disclosed dispensing device removes the existing cartridge from the dispensing device after all of the nutrients contained in one cartridge are exhausted, and a new cartridge containing the same nutrients is installed and used.

[0004] In this way, if the remaining amount of the nutrient stored in the first cartridge of the dispensing device is low, the user has the difficulty of having to continuously monitor the dispensing device while waiting until the remaining amount of the first cartridge is completely used up.

[0005] Additionally, if the user does not continuously monitor or is unaware of the impending depletion of nutrients, the cartridge may not be replaced even after all nutrients in the first cartridge are depleted, resulting in the user not receiving the nutrients in the first cartridge.

[0006] Furthermore, if the second cartridge is replaced before the remaining amount of the first cartridge is completely depleted, the remaining amount of the first cartridge may be discarded and wasted. To prevent this, even if the remaining amount of the first cartridge is transferred to the second cartridge, the dispensing device does not recognize that the remaining amount of the first cartridge has been transferred and only recognizes the initial amount of the nutrient recorded in the second cartridge.

[0007] The present invention is intended to improve the problems described above, and to improve the convenience of management and user convenience in managing the remaining amount of formulation information when an existing cartridge module is removed from a dispensing device and a new cartridge module is installed.

[0008] However, the problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned can be clearly understood based on the description below.

[0009] A method for managing formulation information according to one embodiment of the present invention can be performed by a dispensing system including a dispensing device configured to discharge the formulation by mounting a cartridge module containing the formulation.

[0010] A formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a first cartridge module removal recognition step for recognizing that a first cartridge module mounted on a cartridge module mounting portion of the dispensing device has been removed and separated from the cartridge module mounting portion.

[0011] A method for managing formulation information according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a second cartridge module mounting recognition step for recognizing that a second cartridge module has been inserted into the cartridge module mounting portion.

[0012] A formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a cartridge module information comparison step of comparing first cartridge module information including information on a first formulation stored in the removed first cartridge module with second cartridge module information including information on a second formulation stored in the inserted second cartridge module.

[0013] A method for managing formulation information according to one embodiment of the present invention may include an update decision step for determining the need for updating the second cartridge module information based on the comparison result of the cartridge module information comparison step.

[0014] In a formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention, the second cartridge module mounting recognition step can visually provide a mounting state of the cartridge module, including a removed state of the first cartridge module and a mounted state of the second cartridge module, to a user through a user interface terminal included in the dispensing system.

[0015] In a formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention, the information on the first formulation and the information on the second formulation may include information identifying the type of formulation.

[0016] In a formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention, the information of the first formulation and the information of the second formulation may include information identifying the content ratio of each nutritional ingredient included in the formulation.

[0017] In a formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention, the information on the first formulation and the information on the second formulation may include information indicating the remaining amount of the stored formulation.

[0018] In a formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention, the step of determining whether to update may be performed, if, as a result of comparing the first cartridge module information and the second cartridge module information in the cartridge module information comparison step, the first cartridge module and the second cartridge module are different, separate cartridge modules and the information on the first formulation and the information on the second formulation are the same, the necessity of updating the second cartridge module information may be determined based on whether the first formulation remaining in the first cartridge module has been transferred to and stored in the second cartridge module.

[0019] In a formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention, the step of determining whether to update may include, when the first cartridge module information and the second cartridge module information are compared in the cartridge module information comparison step and the first cartridge module and the second cartridge module are different, separate cartridge modules and the information on the first formulation and the information on the second formulation are the same, a step of confirming whether to transfer the first formulation remaining in the first cartridge module to the second cartridge module may be performed by providing a user interface (UI) terminal included in the dispensing system with a user interface to inquire whether the user has performed an operation of transferring the first formulation to the second cartridge module.

[0020] In a formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention, the update determination step may further perform a determination step of determining the necessity of updating the second cartridge module information based on a user response received through the UI in the transfer confirmation step.

[0021] In a method for managing formulation information according to one embodiment of the present invention, the determination step may determine that there is a need to update the second cartridge module information if the user's response received in the transfer confirmation step is a response confirming that the transfer operation has been performed, and may determine that there is no need to update the second cartridge module information if the user's response received in the transfer confirmation step is a response denying that the transfer operation has been performed.

[0022] In a formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention, in the step of determining whether to update, if the first cartridge module information and the second cartridge module information are compared in the cartridge module information comparison step and the removed first cartridge module and the inserted second cartridge module are identical cartridge modules, it can be determined that there is no need to update the second cartridge module information.

[0023] In a formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention, if it is determined in the update decision step that there is a need to update the second cartridge module information, an information update step of updating the remaining amount information of the second formulation included in the second cartridge module information based on the remaining amount information of the first formulation included in the first cartridge module information may be further performed.

[0024] In a formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention, after the update determination step, a cartridge module management status display step may be further included to visually provide information on the second formulation together with the mounting status of the second cartridge module to the user through a user interface terminal included in the dispensing system.

[0025] In a formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention, in the cartridge module management status display step, when the remaining amount information of the second formulation is updated, the type of the second formulation and the updated remaining amount information of the second formulation may be displayed.

[0026] In a formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention, in the cartridge module management status display step, when the remaining amount information of the second formulation is not updated, the type of the second formulation and the initial amount information of the second formulation may be displayed.

[0027] According to the present invention, by reflecting the remaining amount information of the formulation remaining in a cartridge module removed from a dispensing device into the remaining amount information of the formulation stored in a cartridge module newly mounted on the dispensing device and updating it, the convenience of management and the convenience of use for the user can be improved in managing the remaining amount information of the formulation.

[0028] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.

[0029] Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram of a dispensing system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 2 is a block diagram of a server according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a cartridge module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 4 is a drawing of a cartridge module according to one embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the 'A' direction of FIG. 8.

[0033] Figure 5 is a block diagram of a dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 7 is an enlarged view illustrating a cartridge module storage unit in a dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 8 is a block diagram of a device terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 9 is a block diagram of a user terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the detailed flow of the step of determining whether to update in a formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 12 illustrates a UI screen that displays the management status of a cartridge module mounted on a dispensing device in a dispensing system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 13 illustrates a UI screen displayed immediately after removal or installation of a cartridge module in a dispensing system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Fig. 14 illustrates a UI screen for confirming transfer of a formulation in a dispensing system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 15 illustrates a UI screen displaying the management status of a cartridge module after updating the remaining amount information of a newly mounted cartridge module in a dispensing system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Below, embodiments of the present invention are described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. The embodiments presented in the present invention are provided to enable those skilled in the art to utilize or practice the contents of the present invention. Accordingly, various modifications to the embodiments of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. That is, the present invention can be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0045] Throughout the specification of the present invention, identical or similar drawing numbers refer to identical or similar components. Furthermore, for the purpose of clearly explaining the present invention, drawing numbers for parts in the drawings that are not relevant to the description of the present invention may be omitted.

[0046] The term "or" as used herein is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather than an exclusive "or." That is, unless otherwise specified herein or the context makes it clear, "X employs A or B" should be understood to mean either of the natural inclusive permutations. For example, unless otherwise specified herein or the context makes it clear, "X employs A or B" can be interpreted to mean either X employs A, X employs B, or X employs both A and B.

[0047] The term "and / or" as used herein should be understood to refer to and include all possible combinations of one or more of the related concepts listed.

[0048] The terms "comprises" and / or "comprising" as used herein should be understood to imply the presence of certain features and / or components. However, it should be understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising" do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, other components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0049] Unless otherwise specified herein or unless the context makes it clear that the singular form is intended, the singular should generally be construed to include “one or more.”

[0050] In this specification, the term "formulation" means a substance in various forms, for example, a solid form, a powder form, or a liquid form, containing various nutritional ingredients that can be absorbed by the user's body, and is processed into, for example, a health functional food, a medicine, a general food, etc., and taken for the purpose of promoting normal functions and health of the human body, and may have at least one form among various forms, such as a tablet, capsule, pill, powder, granule, jelly, or liquid.

[0051] Meanwhile, the term "module" or "unit" used in the present invention can be understood as a term referring to an independent functional unit that processes computing resources, such as a computer-related entity, firmware, software or a part thereof, hardware or a part thereof, or a combination of software and hardware. At this time, the "module" or "unit" may be a unit composed of a single element, or a unit expressed as a combination or set of multiple elements. For example, as a narrow concept, a "module" or "unit" may refer to a hardware element or a set thereof of a computing device, an application program that performs a specific function of software, a processing process implemented through software execution, or a set of instructions for program execution, etc. In addition, as a broad concept, a "module" or "unit" may refer to the computing device itself that constitutes the system, or an application that runs on the computing device, etc. However, since the above-described concept is only an example, the concept of “module” or “part” can be defined in various ways within a range understandable to those skilled in the art based on the contents of the present invention.

[0052] The explanation of the aforementioned terms is intended to aid understanding of the present invention. Therefore, unless explicitly stated as limiting the scope of the present invention, it should be noted that the aforementioned terms are not intended to limit the technical concept of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram of a dispensing system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] A dispensing system (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a server (100).

[0055] The server (100) can be implemented as a computer device that provides commands, codes, files, contents, and services by communicating with a user terminal (400) and a dispensing device (300) to be described later through a network (200).

[0056] The server (100) can manage information on the formulation stored in the cartridge module. More specifically, the server (100) can receive information on whether the formulation has been transferred from the first cartridge module to the second cartridge module from the user terminal (400) or the dispensing device (300), and can update information on the second formulation stored in the second cartridge module based on the information.

[0057] Here, the formulation information may include quantitative information of the formulation remaining in the cartridge module, i.e., residual amount information. The residual amount information may be expressed as, but is not limited to, the number of formulations, the weight of the formulation, the ratio of the remaining amount to the initial amount of the formulation, etc. The formulation information may include quantitative information of the formulation initially stored in the cartridge module, i.e., initial amount information. Similar to the residual amount information, the initial amount information may also be expressed as, the number of formulations, the weight of the formulation, the ratio of the remaining amount to the initial amount of the formulation, etc. The formulation information may further include information that can identify the type of formulation, such as the name of the formulation, the manufacturing date of the formulation, the expiration date of the formulation, the manufacturer of the formulation, and the content ratio of each nutritional ingredient of the formulation.

[0058] A dispensing system (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a network (200).

[0059] The network (200) can, for example, connect (directly or indirectly) any two or more of a server (100), a dispensing device (300), and a user terminal (400) to enable communication.

[0060] The network (200) is not limited in its communication method, and may include not only a communication method utilizing a communication network (e.g., mobile communication network, wired Internet, wireless Internet, broadcasting network) that the network (200) may include, but also short-range wireless communication.

[0061] A dispensing system (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a dispensing device (300).

[0062] The dispensing device (300) can dispense nutrients.

[0063] The dispensing device (300) may be equipped with one or more cartridge modules (500). One type of formulation may be stored in a single cartridge module. For example, a magnesium cartridge module may store a magnesium nutrient. In another example, a multi-mineral cartridge module may store a multi-mineral nutrient.

[0064] Nutritional supplements may be provided in any of a variety of forms, including solid forms (e.g., tablets, pills, granules, etc.), capsules, powders, and jellies.

[0065] The dispensing device (300) can discharge the formulation stored in the mounted cartridge module (500).

[0066] The dispensing device (300) can dispense a formulation based on a formulation dispensing request signal. For example, the dispensing device (300) can receive a formulation dispensing request signal from the server (100) and dispense a formulation according to the received formulation dispensing request signal. The formulation dispensing request signal may include, but is not limited to, information regarding the type of formulation to be dispensed, the amount of formulation to be dispensed, or a combination thereof.

[0067] A dispensing system (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a user terminal (400).

[0068] The user terminal (400) may be a fixed terminal implemented as a computer device or a mobile terminal. For example, the user terminal (400) may be one of a smart phone, a mobile phone, a tablet PC, a computer, a laptop, and a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant).

[0069] The user terminal (400) can be used by a user. The term "user" may refer to a user of the user terminal (400), but may also refer to a user of an account registered for a service provided by the server (100). The server (100) transmitting or providing certain information to a user may refer to transmitting certain information to a user terminal (400) of an account registered with the server (100) and providing the information to the user.

[0070] The user terminal (400) may be equipped with an application for performing the aforementioned function and may be linked with the server (100) through the application.

[0071] Below, the configuration of the dispensing system (10) is described in more detail.

[0072] Figure 2 is a block diagram of a server according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 2, the server (100) may include a server communication unit (110), a server storage unit (120), and a server control unit (130).

[0074] The server (100) can communicate with the outside world through the server communication unit (110). For example, the server (100) can receive cartridge module information of the cartridge module (500) from the dispensing device (300) through the server communication unit (110). The cartridge module information may include the manufacturing date of the cartridge module, information on the stored formulation, and information on whether the cartridge module has been opened.

[0075] As mentioned above, the information on the formulation may include the initial amount of the formulation, the remaining amount of the formulation, the manufacturing date of the formulation, the expiration date of the formulation, the manufacturer of the formulation, and the nutritional composition ratio of the formulation.

[0076] In another embodiment, the cartridge module information may include unique identification information of the cartridge module. The unique identification information of the cartridge module may be information that is matched one-to-one with a database that includes both information related to the cartridge module and information on the formulation as described above. The database may be stored in the server (100). In this case, when the unique identification information of the cartridge module (500) equipped with the dispensing device (300) is read and transmitted to the server (100), information matching the unique identification information is extracted from the database stored in the server (100), thereby identifying information on the cartridge module and the formulation.

[0077] The server (100) can transmit a nutrient dispensing request signal to the dispensing device (300) through the server communication unit (100) so that the formulation is dispensed from the dispensing device (300) and provided to the user.

[0078] The server communication unit (110) can perform wired or wireless communication. The server communication unit (110) may be, for example, a wired / wireless local area network (LAN) module, a WAN module, an Ethernet module, a Bluetooth module, a Zigbee module, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) module, an IEEE 1394 module, a Wi-Fi module, a mobile communication module, a satellite communication module, or a combination thereof, but is not limited thereto.

[0079] The server storage unit (120) can store various data, programs, or applications necessary for the operation of the server (100). The programs or applications stored in the server storage unit (120) may include one or more instructions. The programs or applications stored in the server storage unit (120) can be executed by the server control unit (130).

[0080] The server storage unit (120) can store information acquired by the server (100). The server storage unit (120) can store the results of operations, judgments, decisions, etc. performed by the server (100). The server storage unit (120) can store information received from the dispensing device (300) or the user terminal (400) via communication.

[0081] The server storage (120) may be an internal storage of the server (100). Alternatively, the server storage (120) may be an external storage such as cloud storage.

[0082] The server storage (120) may be, for example, a hard disk, flash memory, SSD (Solid State Drive), RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, optical disk, or a combination thereof, but is not limited thereto.

[0083] The server (100) can process and perform calculations on various types of information through the server control unit (130). The server control unit (130) can control other components that make up the server (100).

[0084] The server control unit (130) may be implemented as a computer or similar device using hardware, software, or a combination thereof. In terms of hardware, the server control unit (130) may be one or more processors. Alternatively, the server control unit (130) may be provided as processors that are physically separated and cooperate through communication. The server control unit (130) may be, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), a state machine, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC), or a combination thereof, but is not limited thereto. In terms of software, the server control unit (130) may be provided in the form of a program that drives the hardware server control unit (130).

[0085] Unless otherwise specifically stated below, the operation of the server (100) may be interpreted as being performed by the server control unit (130) or under the control of the server control unit (130).

[0086] Not all of the components illustrated in FIG. 2 are essential components of the server (100), and at least some of the components of the server (100) illustrated in FIG. 2 may be omitted. In addition, the server (100) may additionally include components not illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0087] Below, before describing the dispensing device (300), the cartridge module (500) mounted on the dispensing device (300) will first be described.

[0088] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a cartridge module according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a view of a cartridge module according to one embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the 'A' direction of FIG. 8.

[0089] The cartridge module (500) is detachably mounted on the dispensing device (300), and the formulation stored in the cartridge module (500) can be discharged by the formulation discharge operation of the dispensing device (300).

[0090] The cartridge module (500) may include a formulation storage unit (510) and a cartridge head (520).

[0091] The formulation storage unit (510) and the cartridge head (520) can be coupled and separated from each other. For example, screw threads are formed on the outside of a region of the formulation storage unit (510) and screw threads are formed on the inside of a region of the cartridge head (520), so that the formulation storage unit (510) and the cartridge head (520) can be coupled and separated from each other through screw coupling. Of course, the formulation storage unit (510) and the cartridge head (520) can be coupled and separated from each other in other ways, and can also be provided as an integrated structure that cannot be coupled and separated from each other.

[0092] The formulation storage unit (510) may have a shape in which an internal space is formed and at least one surface is open. For example, the formulation storage unit (510) may have a columnar shape in which an internal space is formed and an upper surface is open. The formulation storage unit (510) may have a polygonal columnar shape as illustrated in FIG. 3, or alternatively, may have a circular columnar shape. The nutritional agent (1101) may be introduced into or discharged from the internal space of the formulation storage unit (510) through the open surface of the formulation storage unit (510).

[0093] The cartridge head (520) may include a discharge tube (540). The formulation stored in the cartridge module (500) may be discharged to the outside of the cartridge module (500) through the discharge tube (540) connected to the formulation storage unit (510). When the cartridge module (500) is mounted on the dispensing device (300), the formulation stored in the cartridge module (500) may be discharged through the discharge tube (540) by the formulation discharge operation of the dispensing device (300).

[0094] The cartridge module (500) may further include a motor drive shaft connection (550).

[0095] The motor drive shaft connection part (550) can be connected to the drive shaft (not shown) of the motor provided in the dispensing device (300). The drive shaft of the motor can be connected to the rotor part (not shown) inside the cartridge module (500) through the motor drive shaft connection part (550), and the rotor part can rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the motor, and when at least one discharge hole is formed in the rotor part and the discharge hole and the discharge pipe (540) are aligned in the vertical direction as the rotor part rotates, the formulation stored in the formulation storage part (510) can be discharged. However, this is only an example of the principle of the discharge operation, and the formulation discharge operation of the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0096] The cartridge module (500) may further include a cartridge handle (530). The cartridge handle (530) may be rotatably coupled to one end of the formulation storage unit (510). A user may rotate the cartridge handle (530) in a first direction to mount or detach the cartridge module (500) from the dispensing device (300) while holding the cartridge handle (530). The user may rotate the cartridge handle (530) in a second direction while the cartridge module (500) is mounted on the dispensing device (300) so as not to interfere with the mounting unit cover (324).

[0097] The cartridge module (500) may further include a cartridge identification unit (560). The cartridge identification unit (560) may be provided on one surface of the cartridge head (520). Referring to FIG. 4, the cartridge identification unit (560) may be provided at a position facing the inner lower end surface of the cartridge insertion unit (S) based on the state in which the cartridge module (500) is mounted on the cartridge module mounting unit (320) described later.

[0098] The cartridge identification unit (560) may store the aforementioned cartridge module information. The cartridge identification unit may include a memory chip and may further include a terminal electrically connected to the input / output terminal of the memory chip. However, the form of the cartridge identification unit is not limited thereto, and may be provided in the form of a passive element such as a resistor, or one of an identification mark, an RFID tag, and an NFC tag.

[0099] When the cartridge identification unit (560) is mounted on the dispensing device (300), the dispensing device (300) can read the stored cartridge module information from the cartridge identification unit (560).

[0100] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 7 is an enlarged view for explaining a cartridge module storage unit in a dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0101] Before describing the dispensing device (300), the direction is defined.

[0102] In this specification, the side where the mounting cover (324) described later is placed is defined as the upper side, and the side where the device stand (380) is placed is defined as the lower side. In addition, the side where the device terminal (340) is placed is defined as the front, and the side opposite to the side where the device terminal (340) is placed is defined as the rear. The cartridge module (500) can be installed by being inserted into the lower side of the internal space of the dispensing device (300), and can be removed by being lifted upward in the inserted state.

[0103] The dispensing device (300) may include a housing (310).

[0104] The housing (310) may form the exterior of the dispensing device (300). The housing (310) may be formed in a space within the housing so that other components of the dispensing device (300) may be mounted therein. For example, a dispenser control unit (330) may be mounted in the internal space of the housing (310). In addition, various components for implementing heat dissipation, insulation, cooling, and dispensing operation functions may be mounted in the internal space of the housing (310). Through this, the housing (310) may protect the mounted components from external impact.

[0105] The housing (310) may include a first housing having a roughly rectangular shape and a second housing having a roughly cylindrical shape.

[0106] The first housing may be configured to be elongated in the vertical direction. A second housing may be connected to the upper side of the first housing, and a device stand (380) may be connected to the lower side. A heat dissipation means may be installed in the internal space of the first housing.

[0107] The second housing may be formed in a form that is connected to the front upper side of the first housing. A cartridge module mounting portion (320) may be formed in the internal space of the second housing.

[0108] A mounting cover (324) may be coupled to the upper surface of the housing (310), specifically, the upper surface on the first housing side. The mounting cover (324) may be rotated about a hinge coupled to one side to open and close one or more cartridge insertion portions (S).

[0109] The dispensing device (300) may include a cartridge module mounting portion (320).

[0110] One or more cartridge modules (500) can be mounted on the cartridge module mounting portion (320).

[0111] The cartridge module mounting portion (320) may include a cartridge module interface (321), a cartridge insertion portion (S), a mounting portion opening / closing detection portion (322), a display portion (323), and a mounting portion cover (324).

[0112] The cartridge insertion portion (S) can be located in the internal space of the second housing.

[0113] The cartridge insertion portion (S) may include a plurality of slots (S1 to S8). For example, one cartridge module (500) may be mounted in a slot.

[0114] The cartridge insertion portion (S) can be opened or closed by the relative movement of the mounting portion cover (324) with respect to the second housing. For example, the user can open the cartridge insertion portion (S) by rotating the mounting portion cover (324) in a direction away from the second housing (a first direction), mount a cartridge module (500) in one or more empty slots selected from a plurality of slots, and close the cartridge insertion portion (S) by rotating the mounting portion cover (324) in a direction toward the second housing (a second direction). As another example, the user can open the cartridge insertion portion (S) by rotating the mounting portion cover (324) in the first direction, remove a cartridge module (500) mounted in one or more slots of the cartridge insertion portion (S), mount a new cartridge module (500) in an empty slot of the cartridge insertion portion (S), and close the cartridge insertion portion (S) by rotating the mounting portion cover (324) in the second direction.

[0115] In this specification, the mounting cover (324) is illustrated as being positioned on the upper side of the housing (310), but this is merely an example, and the mounting cover (324) may be positioned elsewhere, such as on the front, side, or rear of the housing (310).

[0116] Meanwhile, the dispensing device (300) can detect whether the cartridge insertion part (S) is open or closed through the mounting part opening / closing detection part (322). For example, the dispenser control part (330) can obtain an opening / closing signal indicating whether the cartridge insertion part (S) is open or closed from the mounting part opening / closing detection part (322), and can detect whether the cartridge insertion part (S) is open or closed based on the obtained opening / closing signal. To this end, the mounting part opening / closing detection part (322) can be configured as a mechanical switch, and can be positioned at a position where it can be pressed by the inner surface of the mounting part cover (324) based on a state in which the mounting part cover (324) closes the cartridge insertion part (S). For example, the mounting part opening / closing detection part (322) can be positioned on the upper surface of the cartridge insertion part (S).

[0117] The cartridge module interface (321) may be provided in the form of, for example, an electrode, a terminal, or a combination thereof, but is not limited thereto.

[0118] One cartridge module interface (321) can correspond to one cartridge insertion portion (S). For example, a cartridge module interface (321) can be arranged in each slot of the cartridge insertion portion (S). Each cartridge module interface (321) can be located at a portion that contacts the cartridge identification portion (560) of the cartridge module (500) within the slot of the cartridge insertion portion (S). For example, when the cartridge identification portion (560) is an electrode terminal connected to a memory chip, the cartridge module interface (321) can be configured as a corresponding terminal of the electrode terminal.

[0119] The dispensing device (300) may be electrically connected to the cartridge module (500) via the cartridge module interface (321). For example, the dispensing device (300) may be electrically connected to the cartridge identification unit (560) of the cartridge module (500) via the cartridge module interface (321).

[0120] The cartridge module interface (321) can read and acquire cartridge module information of the cartridge module (500) stored in the cartridge identification unit (560), and write updated cartridge module information so that it is stored in the cartridge identification unit (560).

[0121] The dispensing device (300) can detect whether a cartridge module (500) is mounted in the cartridge insertion portion (S) through the cartridge module interface (321). For example, the dispensing device (300) can determine that the cartridge module (500) is mounted when it is electrically connected to the cartridge module (500).

[0122] The display portion (323) can be located on the upper surface of the cartridge insertion portion (S).

[0123] The display unit (323) may include one or more indicator lights. The display unit (323) may include multiple indicator lights. The indicator lights may be, for example, LEDs, but are not limited thereto.

[0124] One indicator light can be positioned to correspond to one slot. One indicator light can be positioned to correspond to one cartridge module (500).

[0125] The display unit (323) can display information related to the mounting status of the cartridge module (500). For this purpose, the dispenser control unit (330) of the dispensing device (300) can control the display unit (323). For example, if the cartridge module (500) is not mounted, the indicator light can be turned off. For example, if the cartridge module (500) is not mounted normally or an error occurs, a red indicator light can be turned on. For example, if the cartridge module (500) is mounted normally, a white indicator light can be turned on.

[0126] The dispensing device (300) may include a dispenser control unit (330).

[0127] The dispenser control unit (330) is a component that can control the components included in the dispensing device (300). Like the server control unit (130) described above, the dispensing device (300) can process and perform calculations of various types of information through the dispenser control unit (330). The dispenser control unit (330) can manage cartridge module information.

[0128] When a cartridge module (500) is mounted on the dispensing device (300), the dispenser control unit (330) can obtain cartridge module information from the cartridge module (500) and transmit it to the server (100).

[0129] In addition, the dispenser control unit (330) can monitor information on the amount of the formulation discharged from the cartridge module (500) or information on the remaining amount of the formulation stored in the cartridge module (500), and the information on the amount of the formulation discharged or the remaining amount can be output through the device terminal (340) or transmitted to the server (100) or the user terminal (400).

[0130] Any duplicate description of the same or similar parts of the dispenser control unit (330) as the server control unit (130) is omitted.

[0131] The dispensing device (300) may further include a discharge portion (350).

[0132] The dispensing device (300) can dispense the formulation through the dispensing portion (350).

[0133] The discharge unit (350) may include one or more detection sensors (not shown). One detection sensor may be provided corresponding to one slot of the cartridge insertion unit (S). For example, a detection sensor may be positioned for each slot. One detection sensor may be positioned corresponding to one cartridge module (500).

[0134] The dispensing device (300) can obtain discharge amount information regarding the amount of formulation discharged from the cartridge module (500) through a detection sensor. For example, the dispensing device (300) can count the number of formulations discharged from the cartridge module (500) through the detection sensor.

[0135] The dispensing device (300) may include a dispenser communication unit (360).

[0136] Similar to the server communication unit (110) described above, the dispensing device (300) can communicate with an external server (100) and / or a user terminal (400) through the dispenser communication unit (360). The dispensing device (300) can communicate with a device terminal (340) through the dispenser communication unit (360). Duplicate descriptions of parts of the dispenser communication unit (360) that are the same or similar to those of the server communication unit (110) are omitted. However, depending on the embodiment, the dispenser communication unit (360) itself may be omitted, and in this case, the device terminal communication unit (341) may also function as the dispenser communication unit (360).

[0137] The dispensing device (300) may include a dispenser storage unit (370).

[0138] As with the server storage unit (120) described above, the dispensing device (300) can store various data, programs, or applications necessary for operation in the dispenser storage unit (370). The dispenser storage unit (370) can store information acquired by the dispensing device (300). The dispenser storage unit (370) can store cartridge module information. Duplicate descriptions of parts of the dispenser storage unit (370) that are the same or similar to those of the server storage unit (120) will be omitted.

[0139] The dispensing device (300) may further include a device holder (380).

[0140] The device stand (380) may be formed at the vertical lower portion of the second housing. The device stand (380) may be connected to the lower portion of the first housing. Referring to FIG. 6, the device stand (380) may be formed in a roughly circular plate shape, but is not limited thereto. As another example, the device stand (380) may be formed in a square plate shape.

[0141] The device stand (380) can serve to stably support the dispensing device (300) on the ground, and a container can be placed on its upper surface to receive the dispensed formulation.

[0142] Figure 8 is a block diagram of a device terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0143] The dispensing device (300) may include a device terminal (340).

[0144] The device terminal (340) may include a device terminal communication unit (341), a device terminal storage unit (342), a device terminal control unit (343), a device terminal input unit (344), and a device terminal output unit (345).

[0145] Similar to the server communication unit (110) described above, the device terminal (340) can communicate with the outside world through the device terminal communication unit (341). For example, the device terminal communication unit (341) can communicate with the server (100) or the user terminal (400). Duplicate descriptions of parts of the device terminal communication unit (341) that are identical or similar to the server communication unit (110) are omitted.

[0146] The device terminal (340) can obtain user input through the device terminal input unit (344). The user input may be, for example, a key input, a touch input, a voice input, or a combination thereof, but is not limited thereto.

[0147] The device terminal input unit (344) may be implemented as a commonly used user input device. The user input device may be, for example, a touch sensor that detects a user's touch, a microphone that receives a voice signal, a gesture sensor that recognizes a user's gesture, a keyboard, a mouse, or a combination thereof, but is not limited thereto.

[0148] The device terminal (340) can output information through the device terminal output unit (345). For example, the device terminal (340) can output information related to the dispensing device (300) (e.g., remaining amount information, shortage amount information, etc.), icon information for identifying the user, current status information of the user, or discharge amount information through the device terminal output unit (345).

[0149] Information output may be visual, auditory, and / or tactile, but is not limited thereto and may take various forms. For example, the device terminal output unit (345) may be implemented as a display that outputs images, a speaker that outputs sound, a haptic device that generates vibrations, and / or various other forms of output means.

[0150] Alternatively, the device terminal output unit (345) may be implemented in the form of an output interface (USB port, PS / 2 port, etc.) that connects an external output device that outputs information to the device terminal (340) instead of a device that outputs information externally on its own.

[0151] The device terminal output unit (345) may be integrated with the device terminal input unit (344). For example, if the device terminal output unit (345) is a display, the device terminal output unit (345) may be integrated with a touch sensor, which is the device terminal input unit (344), in the form of a touch display.

[0152] As with the server storage unit (120) described above, the device terminal (340) can store various data, programs, or applications necessary for operation in the device terminal storage unit (342). The device terminal storage unit (342) can store information acquired by the device terminal (340). Duplicate descriptions of parts of the device terminal storage unit (342) that are identical or similar to those of the server storage unit (120) are omitted.

[0153] As with the server control unit (130) described above, the device terminal (340) can process and perform calculations on various types of information through the device terminal control unit (343). Duplicate descriptions of parts of the device terminal control unit (343) that are identical or similar to those of the server control unit (130) are omitted.

[0154] Figure 9 is a block diagram of a user terminal according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0155] Referring to FIG. 9, the user terminal (400) may include a terminal communication unit (410), a terminal storage unit (420), a terminal control unit (430), a terminal input unit (440), and a terminal output unit (450).

[0156] Similar to the server communication unit (110) described above, the user terminal (400) can communicate with the outside world through the terminal communication unit (410). For example, the user terminal (400) can receive remaining amount information from the server (100) or the dispensing device (300) through the terminal communication unit (410). Duplicate descriptions of parts of the terminal communication unit (410) that are identical or similar to those of the server communication unit (110) are omitted.

[0157] As with the server storage unit (120) described above, the user terminal (400) can store various data, programs, or applications necessary for operation in the terminal storage unit (420). The terminal storage unit (420) can store information acquired by the user terminal (400). Duplicate descriptions of parts of the terminal storage unit (420) that are identical or similar to those of the server storage unit (120) are omitted.

[0158] As with the aforementioned server control unit (130), the user terminal (400) can process and perform calculations on various types of information through the terminal control unit (430). Duplicate descriptions of parts of the terminal control unit (430) that are identical or similar to those of the server control unit (130) are omitted.

[0159] The user terminal (400) can obtain user input through the terminal input unit (440). The user input may be, for example, key input, touch input, voice input, or a combination thereof, but is not limited thereto.

[0160] The terminal input unit (440) may be implemented using a commonly used user input device. Examples of the user input device include, but are not limited to, a touch sensor that detects a user's touch, a microphone that receives voice signals, a gesture sensor that recognizes a user's gestures, a keyboard, a mouse, or a combination thereof.

[0161] The user terminal (400) can output information through the terminal output unit (450). For example, the user terminal (400) can output information through the terminal output unit (450). The information output may be visual, auditory, and / or tactile, but is not limited thereto and may be in various forms.

[0162] The terminal output unit (450) may be implemented as a display that outputs images, a speaker that outputs sounds, a haptic device that generates vibrations, and / or various other types of output means.

[0163] Alternatively, the terminal output unit (450) may be implemented in the form of an output interface (USB port, PS / 2 port, etc.) that connects an external output device that outputs information to the user terminal (400) instead of a device that outputs information externally on its own.

[0164] The terminal output unit (450) may be integrated with the terminal input unit (440). For example, if the terminal output unit (450) is a display, the terminal output unit (450) may be integrated with a touch sensor, which is the terminal input unit (440), in the form of a touch display.

[0165] Not all of the components illustrated in FIG. 9 are essential components of the user terminal (400), and at least some of the components of the user terminal (400) illustrated in FIG. 9 may be omitted. In addition, the user terminal (400) may additionally include components not illustrated in FIG. 9.

[0166] Hereinafter, a method for managing formulation information that can be performed by the aforementioned dispensing system (10), which corresponds to the core technical idea of ​​the present invention, will be described.

[0167] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the detailed flow of a step of determining whether to update in a formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0168] Referring to FIG. 10, a formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a first cartridge module removal recognition step (S100).

[0169] The first cartridge module removal recognition step (S100) is a step in which the dispensing device (300) recognizes that the first cartridge module mounted on the cartridge module mounting portion (320) of the dispensing device (300) has been removed from the cartridge module mounting portion (320).

[0170] The dispensing device (300) can determine whether the first cartridge module has been removed from the cartridge module mounting portion (320) based on the electrical connection status between the cartridge identification portion of the first cartridge module mounted in one slot of the cartridge insertion portion (S) and the corresponding cartridge module interface.

[0171] The first cartridge module may have contained the first formulation. Furthermore, the first formulation may have been completely exhausted before the first cartridge module was removed, and the first formulation may still be present in the first cartridge module at the time of removal.

[0172] FIG. 12 illustrates a UI screen that displays the management status of a cartridge module mounted on a dispensing device in a dispensing system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0173] The first cartridge module is mounted in the fourth slot (S4) of the cartridge insertion portion, and the first formulation may be milk thistle.

[0174] The UI screen indicating the management status of the cartridge module illustrated in FIG. 12 may be displayed on a user interface terminal. Here, the user interface terminal refers to a device terminal (340) or a user terminal (400), and the management status of the cartridge module may be provided through either the device terminal (340) or the user terminal (400), or through both.

[0175] Referring to Fig. 12, the A1 area of ​​the UI screen indicating the management status of the cartridge module may display an image of the cartridge module mounting portion as viewed from above. The A2 area of ​​the UI screen indicating the management status of the cartridge module may display guidance text related to the management of the cartridge module.

[0176] Area A1 may display some of the information about the formulation stored in the cartridge module installed in each slot of the cartridge insertion unit. The formulation information may be displayed as text in locations corresponding to multiple slots. The displayed formulation information may include the formulation name and remaining amount information. The remaining amount information may be displayed as a quantity, or preferably as a percentage of the initial amount for ease of management.

[0177] A UI screen indicating the management status of a cartridge module may display a visual warning alerting the user to the remaining dosage form below a preset threshold. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 12, the remaining dosage form in a cartridge module (containing a milk thistle dosage form) mounted in the fourth slot (S4) may be below the threshold. In this case, a warning message "Replacement imminent" may be displayed in the area displaying the image corresponding to the cartridge module.

[0178] Meanwhile, the critical residual amount may be set differently for each formulation or may be set the same as needed.

[0179] A formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a second cartridge module mounting recognition step (S200).

[0180] The second cartridge module mounting recognition step (S200) is a step in which the dispensing device (300) recognizes that the second cartridge module has been inserted into the cartridge module mounting portion (320).

[0181] The dispensing device (300) can determine whether the second cartridge module is mounted on the cartridge module mounting portion (320) based on the electrical connection status between the cartridge identification portion of the second cartridge module and the corresponding cartridge module interface, which occurs when the second cartridge module is inserted into one of the slots of the cartridge insertion portion (S).

[0182] The second cartridge module may contain the second formulation.

[0183] At this time, the second cartridge module may be inserted into the slot from which the first cartridge module was removed, or the second cartridge module may be inserted into an empty slot separate from the slot from which the first cartridge module was removed. For example, the first cartridge module may be removed from the fourth slot (S4) and the second cartridge module may be installed in the empty sixth slot (S6).

[0184] FIG. 13 illustrates a UI screen displayed immediately after removal or installation of a cartridge module in a dispensing system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0185] Referring to FIG. 13, in this step (S200), the mounting status of the cartridge module, including the removed state of the first cartridge module and the mounted state of the second cartridge module, can be visually provided to the user. However, since an embodiment in which both the removal of the first cartridge module and the mounting of the second cartridge module are performed is described here, it is described that the UI screen displaying the mounted state of the cartridge module is provided in this step (S200). In another embodiment, when only the removal of the first cartridge module is performed, a UI screen displaying the mounted state of the cartridge module will be displayed in the previous step, the first cartridge module removal recognition step (S100).

[0186] More specifically, a UI screen displaying the mounting status of the cartridge module may be provided to the user via a user interface terminal. For example, a UI screen displaying the mounting status of the cartridge module may be provided via either or both of the device terminal (340) and the user terminal (400).

[0187] The UI screen displaying the cartridge module mounting status may preferably be displayed as a pop-up screen (POP1). By displaying the UI screen displaying the cartridge module mounting status as a pop-up screen (POP1), the user can immediately check whether the cartridge module has been removed and / or mounted normally immediately after removal and / or mounting of the cartridge module.

[0188] Referring to FIG. 13, the B1 area of ​​the UI screen displaying the cartridge module mounting status may display a message indicating that a new cartridge module has been mounted. For example, the B1 area may display the message "Cartridge module connected."

[0189] In the B2 area of ​​the UI screen displaying the cartridge module mounting status, the name of each cartridge module and the position of the mounted cartridge insertion portion can be intuitively displayed. The name of the cartridge module can be determined based on the type of formulation contained therein. For example, the name of a cartridge module containing milk thistle can be determined as 'Milk Thistle Bottle'. The slot positions of the cartridge insertion portions can be indicated by numbers. For example, the position of the 6th slot can be indicated as number 6.

[0190] Referring to FIG. 13 together with FIG. 12, the milk thistle cartridge module that had insufficient remaining amount is removed from the 4th slot and a new milk thistle cartridge module is installed in the 6th slot, so that the 4th position is displayed as empty due to the absence of a connected cartridge module (B21) and the 6th position can be displayed as having a new milk thistle cartridge module installed (B22).

[0191] In the B3 area of ​​the UI screen that displays the mounting status of the cartridge module, a component that can close a pop-up screen (POP1) can be displayed. The component can be, for example, a confirmation button.

[0192] A formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a cartridge module information comparison step (S300).

[0193] The cartridge module information comparison step (S300) is a step of comparing the first cartridge module information including information on the first formulation stored in the removed first cartridge module with the second cartridge module information including information on the second formulation stored in the inserted second cartridge module.

[0194] This step (S300) may be performed in a dispensing device (300). More specifically, this step (S300) may be performed in a dispenser control unit (330) of the dispensing device (300).

[0195] Alternatively, this step (S300) may be performed in the server (100). More specifically, this step (S300) may be performed in the server control unit (130) of the server (100).

[0196] In an embodiment where this step (S300) is performed in the server control unit (130), the dispensing device (300) may transmit first cartridge module information to the server (100) to perform this step (S300). At this time, the transmitted first cartridge module information may include, for example, information on the mounting status (removal status) of the first cartridge module, the type of the first formulation, and information on the remaining amount of the first formulation.

[0197] In an embodiment where this step (S300) is performed in the server control unit (130), the dispensing device (300) may transmit second cartridge module information to the server (100) for performing this step (S300). At this time, the transmitted second cartridge module information may include, for example, information on the mounting status of the second cartridge module (mounting status), the type of the second formulation, and information on the initial amount of the second formulation.

[0198] In this step (S300), it can be compared whether the first cartridge module and the second cartridge module are the same cartridge modules.

[0199] The fact that the first cartridge module and the second cartridge module are identical means that the removed first cartridge module is re-installed as is, and the user can remove and reinstall the first cartridge module as needed. For example, the user can remove and reinstall the first cartridge module to change the position of the cartridge module. For example, the user can remove and reinstall the first cartridge module to resolve a cartridge module jamming problem.

[0200] In one embodiment, whether the first cartridge module and the second cartridge module are identical can be determined based on the unsealed status information included in the cartridge module information. The status value of the unsealed status information of the first cartridge module will indicate an "unsealed status." If the second cartridge module is a new cartridge module, the status value of the unsealed status information will indicate an "unsealed status." Therefore, whether the first cartridge module has been re-installed can be determined based on the unsealed status information.

[0201] In another embodiment, whether the first cartridge module and the second cartridge module are identical can be determined based on unique identification information included in the cartridge module information. If the first cartridge module and the second cartridge module are separate cartridge modules, the unique identification information will be different, and thus, whether the first cartridge module has been remounted can be determined based on the unique identification information.

[0202] In this step (S300), it can be compared whether the first formulation and the second formulation are the same formulation.

[0203] The identity of the first and second formulations can be determined based on the formulation information contained in the cartridge module information. The formulation information that serves as the basis for the determination may include information that can identify the identity of the formulations, such as the name of the formulation and the content ratio of the included nutrients.

[0204] A method for managing formulation information according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a step (S400) of determining whether to update.

[0205] The update decision step (S400) is a step for determining the need for updating the second cartridge module information based on the comparison result of the cartridge module information comparison step (S300).

[0206] This step (S400) may be performed in the dispensing device (300). More specifically, this step (S400) may be performed in the dispenser control unit (330) of the dispensing device (300).

[0207] Alternatively, this step (S400) may be performed in the server (100). More specifically, this step (S400) may be performed in the server control unit (130) of the server (100).

[0208] Here, the second cartridge module information that is determined to be updated may be the remaining amount information of the second formulation. The remaining amount of the second formulation will be the same as the initial amount of the second formulation if the second cartridge module is a new cartridge module. Assuming that the first formulation and the second formulation are the same, the user can remove the first cartridge module and transfer the remaining first formulation to the second cartridge module. At this time, the remaining amount of the second formulation is the initial amount of the second formulation plus the remaining amount of the first formulation, so the remaining amount information of the second formulation must be updated. If the update is not performed, the existence of the second formulation equivalent to the remaining amount of the first formulation is omitted, so errors continuously occur in managing the remaining amount of the second formulation.

[0209] In this step (S400), if the first cartridge module information and the second cartridge module information are compared in the cartridge module information comparison step (S300), and the first cartridge module and the second cartridge module are different, separate cartridge modules and the information on the first formulation and the information on the second formulation are the same, the need for updating the second cartridge module information can be determined based on whether the first formulation remaining in the first cartridge module has been transferred and stored in the second cartridge module.

[0210] More specifically, if the first cartridge module and the second cartridge module are different, separate cartridge modules and the information of the first formulation and the information of the second formulation are the same ('Yes' in S410 and S420), the transfer confirmation step (S440) can be performed.

[0211] The transfer confirmation step (S440) is a step in which a UI screen (hereinafter, "transfer confirmation UI screen") is provided to the user via a user interface terminal to inquire whether the user has performed an action to transfer the first formulation remaining in the first cartridge module to the second cartridge module. For example, the transfer confirmation UI screen may be provided via either the device terminal (340) or the user terminal (400), or both.

[0212] Prior to performing the transfer confirmation step (S440), relevant information required to display the transfer confirmation UI screen may be transmitted to the user interface terminal. The transmission of the relevant information may be transmitted from the dispensing device (300) to the user terminal (400) and / or the device terminal (340) when the update determination step (S400) is performed in the dispensing device (300). The transmission of the relevant information may be transmitted from the server (100) to the user terminal (400) and / or the device terminal (340) when the update determination step (S400) is performed in the server (100).

[0213] At this time, preferably, if there is no residual amount of the first formulation (residual amount information = 0), there is no room for transferring the first formulation in the first place, so the residual amount of the first formulation may be reviewed (S430), and the transfer confirmation step (S440) may be performed only when the residual amount is greater than 0.

[0214] Fig. 14 illustrates a UI screen for confirming transfer of a formulation in a dispensing system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0215] For the purpose of explanation of Fig. 14, an example is given where the first formulation stored in the first cartridge module is milk thistle and the second formulation stored in the newly installed second cartridge module is also milk thistle.

[0216] Referring to Fig. 14, the transfer confirmation UI screen may preferably be displayed as a pop-up screen (POP2). By displaying the transfer confirmation UI screen as a pop-up screen (POP2), updates to the second cartridge module information can be managed so as not to be missed.

[0217] Continuing with reference to FIG. 14, the C1 area of ​​the transfer confirmation UI screen may display a message asking whether the user has transferred the formulation from the first cartridge module to the second cartridge module. In an example, the C1 area may display the message, "Have you transferred the milk thistle from the removed cartridge to the newly installed milk thistle cartridge?"

[0218] The C2 area of ​​the transfer confirmation UI screen may display a component that allows the user to respond whether to transfer. This component may be displayed as a button labeled "Yes" and "No" to receive user input. The pop-up screen (POP2) may close upon the user's input confirming (Yes) or denying (No) whether to transfer.

[0219] Information related to the response to whether to transfer inputted by the user can be transmitted to a device where the update decision step (S400) is performed. That is, information related to the response to whether to transfer can be transmitted from the user interface terminal to the dispensing device (300) or server (100).

[0220] In this step (S400), a judgment step (S450) may be further performed to determine the need for updating the second cartridge module information based on the user's response received in the transfer confirmation step. The judgment step (S450) may be performed in the dispensing device (300) or the server (100).

[0221] In the judgment step (S450), if the user's response received in the transfer confirmation step (S440) denies that the transfer operation has been performed, it may be determined that there is no need to update the second cartridge module information. Specifically, in this case, since the user has not transferred the first formulation to the second cartridge module, the remaining amount information of the second formulation in the second cartridge module information does not need to be updated and can be maintained as the initial amount information of the second formulation.

[0222] In the judgment step (S450), if the user's response received in the transfer confirmation step (S440) is a response confirming that the transfer operation has been performed, it may be determined that there is a need to update the second cartridge module information. Specifically, since the user has transferred the remaining amount of the first formulation to the second cartridge module, the remaining amount information of the second formulation in the second cartridge module information needs to be updated by adding the remaining amount of the first formulation to the initial amount of the second formulation.

[0223] Meanwhile, in the cartridge module information comparison step (S300) described above, if the removed first cartridge module and the inserted second cartridge module are different, separate cartridge modules as a result of comparing the first cartridge module information and the second cartridge module information, the first formulation and the second formulation may not be the same formulation ('No' in S420). Specifically, in this case, since the formulations are not compatible with each other, that is, the remaining first formulation of the first cartridge module cannot be transferred to the second cartridge module, there is no need to update the remaining amount of the second formulation of the second cartridge module, and the remaining amount of the second formulation becomes the same value as the initial amount of the second formulation.

[0224] In addition, as a result of comparing the first cartridge module information and the second cartridge module information in the aforementioned cartridge module information comparison step (S300), if the removed first cartridge module and the inserted second cartridge module are the same cartridge modules ('No' in S410), it may be determined that there is no need to update the second cartridge module information.

[0225] A formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention may include an information update step (S500).

[0226] The information update step (S500) is a step for updating the remaining amount information of the second formulation included in the second cartridge module information based on the remaining amount information of the first formulation included in the first cartridge module information, if it is determined in the update decision step (S400) that there is a need to update the second cartridge module information.

[0227] Specifically, this step (S500) can be performed in a dispensing device (300) or a server (100), and the remaining amount of the second formulation can be updated by adding the remaining amount of the first formulation to the initial amount of the second formulation.

[0228] A formulation information management method according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a cartridge module management status display step (S600).

[0229] The cartridge module management status display step (S600) is a step that visually provides the user with information on the second formulation along with the mounting status of the second cartridge module through a user interface terminal after the update decision step (S400).

[0230] FIG. 15 illustrates a UI screen displaying the management status of a cartridge module after updating the remaining amount information of a newly mounted cartridge module in a dispensing system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0231] The UI screen indicating the management status of the cartridge module illustrated in Fig. 15 may be displayed on a user interface terminal. The management status of the cartridge module may be provided through either the device terminal (340) or the user terminal (400), or through both.

[0232] Referring to Fig. 15, the D1 area of ​​the UI screen indicating the management status of the cartridge module may display an image of the cartridge module mounting portion as viewed from above. The D2 area of ​​the UI screen indicating the management status of the cartridge module may display guidance text related to the management of the cartridge module.

[0233] At this time, the UI screen of Fig. 15 may only have changed the information displayed in the UI screen of Fig. 12. That is, the A1 area of ​​Fig. 12 and the D1 area of ​​Fig. 15 may refer to the same area.

[0234] In the D1 area, some of the information about the formulation stored in the cartridge module mounted in each cartridge insert may be displayed. The formulation information may be displayed as text at locations corresponding to multiple cartridge inserts. The displayed formulation information may include the formulation name and remaining amount information. The remaining amount information may be displayed as a quantity, or preferably as a percentage of the initial amount for ease of management.

[0235] In this step (S600), if the remaining amount information of the second formulation is updated, the type of the second formulation and the updated remaining amount information of the second formulation may be displayed. In this step (S600), if the remaining amount information of the second formulation is not updated, the type of the second formulation and the initial amount information of the second formulation may be displayed.

[0236] In an example where a milk thistle cartridge module (first cartridge module) with insufficient remaining amount is removed from the fourth slot and a new milk thistle cartridge module (second cartridge module) is installed in the sixth slot, the remaining amount information of the second formulation (milk thistle) of the second cartridge module is updated and displayed as 105%, which is the sum of the remaining amount of the first formulation (5%, see Fig. 12) and the initial amount of the second formulation (100%). (See Fig. 15)

[0237] As described above, according to the present invention, by reflecting the remaining amount information of the formulation remaining in a cartridge module removed from a dispensing device into the remaining amount information of the formulation stored in a cartridge module newly mounted on the dispensing device and updating it, the convenience of management and the convenience of use for the user can be improved in managing the remaining amount information of the formulation.

[0238] Meanwhile, although the present invention has been described in detail through specific examples, this is for the purpose of specifically explaining the present invention, and the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is clear that the present invention can be modified or improved by a person having ordinary knowledge in the relevant field within the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0239] All simple modifications or changes of the present invention fall within the scope of the present invention, and the specific scope of protection of the present invention will be made clear by the appended claims.

[0240] The block diagrams disclosed herein may be interpreted by those skilled in the art as conceptual representations of circuits for implementing the principles of the present invention. Similarly, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any flow chart, flow diagram, state transition diagram, pseudocode, etc., may be substantially represented on a computer-readable medium, representing various processes that may be executed by a computer or processor, whether or not the computer or processor is explicitly depicted.

[0241] Accordingly, the embodiments of the present invention described above can be written as a program that can be executed on a computer, and can be implemented in a general-purpose digital computer that runs the program using a computer-readable recording medium. The computer-readable recording medium can include a storage medium such as a magnetic storage medium (e.g., ROM, floppy disk, hard disk, etc.) or an optical reading medium (e.g., CD-ROM, DVD, etc.).

[0242] The functions of the various elements depicted in the drawings may be provided through the use of dedicated hardware, as well as hardware capable of executing the software in conjunction with appropriate software. When provided by a processor, these functions may be provided by a single dedicated processor, a single shared processor, or multiple individual processors, some of which may be shared.

[0243] Additionally, the explicit use of the term “processor” or “control unit” should not be construed to refer exclusively to hardware capable of executing software, but may implicitly include, without limitation, digital signal processor (DSP) hardware, read-only memory (ROM) for storing software, random access memory (RAM), and non-volatile storage.

Claims

1. A method for managing formulation information performed by a dispensing system including a dispensing device configured to discharge the formulation by mounting a cartridge module containing the formulation, A first cartridge module removal recognition step for recognizing that a first cartridge module mounted on a cartridge module mounting portion of the dispensing device has been removed from the cartridge module mounting portion and separated; A second cartridge module mounting recognition step for recognizing that a second cartridge module has been inserted into the cartridge module mounting portion; A cartridge module information comparison step for comparing first cartridge module information including information on the first formulation stored in the removed first cartridge module with second cartridge module information including information on the second formulation stored in the inserted second cartridge module; and An update decision step for determining the need for updating the second cartridge module information based on the comparison result of the cartridge module information comparison step; including; How to manage formulation information.

2. In paragraph 1, The above second cartridge module mounting recognition step is: Characterized in that the mounting state of the cartridge module, including the removed state of the first cartridge module and the mounted state of the second cartridge module, is visually provided to the user through a user interface terminal included in the dispensing system. How to manage formulation information.

3. In paragraph 1, The information of the first formulation and the information of the second formulation include information identifying the type of formulation. How to manage formulation information.

4. In paragraph 1, The information of the first formulation and the information of the second formulation include information identifying the content ratio of each nutritional ingredient included in the formulation. How to manage formulation information.

5. In paragraph 1, The information of the first formulation and the information of the second formulation include information indicating the remaining amount of the stored formulation. How to manage formulation information.

6. In paragraph 1, The above update decision step is: In the cartridge module information comparison step, if the first cartridge module information and the second cartridge module information are compared and the first cartridge module and the second cartridge module are different separate cartridge modules and the information of the first formulation and the information of the second formulation are the same, Characterized in that the necessity of updating the second cartridge module information is determined based on whether the first formulation remaining in the first cartridge module has been transferred and stored in the second cartridge module. How to manage formulation information.

7. In paragraph 1, The above update decision step is: In the cartridge module information comparison step, if the first cartridge module information and the second cartridge module information are compared and the first cartridge module and the second cartridge module are different separate cartridge modules and the information of the first formulation and the information of the second formulation are the same, A transfer confirmation step of providing a user interface (UI) to the user through a user interface terminal included in the dispensing system to inquire whether the user has performed an action of transferring the first formulation remaining in the first cartridge module to the second cartridge module; and A judgment step of determining the necessity of updating the second cartridge module information based on the user's response received through the UI in the above transfer confirmation step; How to manage formulation information.

8. In paragraph 7, The above judgment step is, If the user's response received in the above transfer confirmation step is a response confirming that the transfer operation has been performed, it is determined that there is a need to update the second cartridge module information. In the above transfer confirmation step, if the user's response received is a response denying that the transfer operation was performed, it is determined that there is no need to update the second cartridge module information. How to manage formulation information.

9. In paragraph 1, The above update decision step is: In the cartridge module information comparison step, if the first cartridge module information and the second cartridge module information are compared and the removed first cartridge module and the inserted second cartridge module are the same cartridge modules, Characterized in that it is determined that there is no need to update the above second cartridge module information, How to manage formulation information.

10. In paragraph 1, If it is determined that there is a need to update the second cartridge module information in the above update decision step, An information update step of updating the remaining amount information of the second formulation included in the second cartridge module information based on the remaining amount information of the first formulation included in the first cartridge module information is further performed. How to manage formulation information.

11. In paragraph 10, After the above update decision step, Further comprising a cartridge module management status display step for visually providing information on the second formulation together with the mounting status of the second cartridge module to the user through a user interface terminal included in the dispensing system; How to manage formulation information.

12. In paragraph 11, The above cartridge module management status display step is: When the remaining amount information of the second formulation is updated, the type of the second formulation and the updated remaining amount information of the second formulation are displayed. If the remaining amount information of the second formulation is not updated, the type of the second formulation and the initial amount information of the second formulation are displayed. How to manage formulation information.

Images