Container, food / beverage dispensing device, and food / beverage dispensing method

Abstract

Provided are a technology and a process whereby, in response to an external container having been collected from a user purchasing food / beverage, an internal container for retaining the food / beverage can then be sealed in the external container to dispense the food / beverage.　A container 1 comprises an internal container 3 for tightly sealing in and retaining food / beverage, and an external container 2 into which the internal container can be inserted in order to dispense the food / beverage to a user U, the external container being for insertion of the internal container in response to the external container having been collected from the user. A food / beverage dispensing device 101 for dispensing the food / beverage to the container 1 comprises: an external container collection unit 205 for receiving the external container collected from the user; a container insertion unit 206 for inserting the internal container retaining aforementioned food / beverage desired by the user into the external container; and a container output unit 207 for outputting the container in the state where the internal container retaining the food / beverage has been inserted into the external container.

Description

Container, food and drink distribution device, and food and drink distribution method

[0001] The present invention relates to a container, a food and drink dispensing device, and a food and drink dispensing method.

[0002] BACKGROUND ART The technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 below is known regarding a beverage container that includes an outer container, a fitting, and a replacement part having a bag body.

[0003] JP 2023-77998 A

[0004] There has not yet been a proposal for a food container that includes an outer container collected from a user who purchases food (including beverages; hereinafter referred to as food and beverages) and an inner container for holding food that can be combined with the outer container on the spot and distributed.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above situation, and aims to provide technology and a process that enables an internal container for holding food and beverages to be sealed in an external container on the spot upon collection of the external container from a user who purchases food and beverages, and the food and beverages to be distributed.

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, one aspect of the container of the present invention comprises an inner container for sealingly holding food or beverage, and an outer container into which the inner container can be inserted in order to distribute the food or beverage to a user, wherein the inner container is inserted into the outer container in response to the outer container being collected from the user.

[0007] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, one embodiment of the food and beverage distribution device of the present invention comprises an inner container for sealingly holding food and beverage, and an outer container into which the inner container can be inserted in order to distribute the food and beverage to a user, wherein the inner container is inserted into the outer container in response to the outer container being collected from the user.The food and beverage distribution device distributes the food and beverage to a container, and comprises: an outer container collection means for accepting the outer container to be collected from the user; a container insertion means for inserting the inner container holding the food and beverage desired by the user into the outer container; and a container output means for outputting the container with the inner container holding the food and beverage inserted into the outer container.

[0008] In order to achieve the above object, a food and drink distribution method according to one aspect of the present invention is a method corresponding to a food and drink distribution device according to one aspect of the present invention.

[0009] According to the present invention, upon collection of an outer container from a user who purchases food or beverage, an inner container for holding the food or beverage can be sealed in the outer container on the spot, and the food or beverage can be distributed.

[0010] 8 is a flowchart showing an overview of the process of a food and beverage dispensing device of one embodiment of the present invention, together with an overview of the process of a vending machine for comparison. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a container of one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an inner container with various volumes compared to the inner container of FIG. 2. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing examples of the outer main body part of FIG. 2 having several shapes and forms to enable brand marketing. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a food and beverage dispensing system to which the food and beverage dispensing device of one embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a food and beverage dispensing device in the food and beverage dispensing system shown in FIG. 5. FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the food and beverage dispensing device of FIG. 6 that constitutes the food and beverage dispensing system shown in FIG. 5. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the container shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the container shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the container shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the container shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the container shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the container shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the container shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the container shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the container shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of the container shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the container shown in FIG. 1. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of the second half following FIG. 17.

[0011] First, before describing the present embodiment with reference to the drawings, the background to the invention will be described.

[0012] Over the past few decades, food and beverage packaging has evolved from reusable, durable packaging made from durable materials (e.g., glass, metal, ceramic) to primarily disposable, single-use packaging made from a variety of materials (e.g., paper, plastic) to minimize costs. This shift has led to the development of food and beverage vending machines (vending machines) and dispensers that utilize these single-use solutions. However, this evolution has also raised several environmental issues related to single-use packaging waste. However, no vending machine systems are currently available that are suitable for reusable containers and bottles, nor can they guarantee clean and hygienic storage of food and beverages with each refill. To address these environmental issues, new reusable containers are being invented to help consumers minimize their environmental impact, such as those disclosed in U.S. Patent US 10781033 B1 and PCT Application WO 2021 / 257741 A1. While this new generation of packaging allows users to limit their environmental footprint, it also has extremely limited refillability and can pose hygiene issues if the container is not properly cleaned when reused. Furthermore, when these containers are refilled, residues affect flavor and taste consistency. These containers are generally more difficult to clean due to their neck and cap components and the food and beverage container portion. This limits the ability to use reusable bottles for refilling with different contents without a cleaning process due to residue, bacteria, and taste and odor contamination. In dispenser and vending machine businesses, packaging is largely limited to disposable packaging such as bottles, cans, and cups. The main reasons for this situation are: (1) hygiene constraints, where single-use packaging is considered clean due to new minimum hazard principles, minimizing risk; vending machines and dispensers do not have cleaning capabilities and / or the packaging used is not initially cleaned; and (2) the design of reusable bottles and containers prohibits their use in vending machines and limits their use in dispenser systems.

[0013] To address the above-mentioned problems, the present invention enables the use of an innovative, modular, integrated reusable container that has the functions of a flask bottle, an insulated double-walled bottle, and / or a cup. More specifically, the present invention provides a technology that allows for the collection of an outer container from a user who purchases food or beverage, and then the outer container is immediately sealed with an inner container for holding the food or beverage, and the food or beverage is then distributed. Furthermore, the following ideas have been proposed to solve this problem: (1) a new process for delivering food and beverages to consumers (this embodiment shown on the right side of Figure 1); (2) a new generation of vending machine (food and beverage distribution device 101 shown in Figure 7); (2-a) providing food and beverages sealed in reusable containers; (2-b) decontaminating the container by replacing or washing the cap to ensure cleanliness; (2-c) decontaminating the reusable containers before delivery; and (3) a new container design (Figure 2, etc.) that allows for the sealing of specially designed food / beverage containers.

[0014] An embodiment of the present invention will be described below. Fig. 1 is a flowchart showing an outline of the process of a food and beverage dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present invention, together with an outline of the process of a vending machine for comparison. Here, the food and beverage dispensing device includes the dispenser and vending machine described above. Note that Fig. 1 can also be rephrased as a summary of the packaging flowchart.

[0015] In the current standard process shown on the left side of Figure 1, in step S101 (Container production), labeled "Container," containers to be used (bottles, cups, etc.) are produced. Standard food hygiene concepts and procedures are applied in the container production process. In step S102 (Storage and Transportation), the containers are protected for storage and transportation and placed in a controlled environment to avoid contamination. In step S103 (Usage in dispensing machine), the containers are used in a dispenser / vending machine. In step S104 (Consumer), the containers are used for serving to customers. In step S105 (Waste), the containers are discarded. Note that the method of container protection in the dispenser / vending machine remains unchanged. In the current standard process, containers that have already been used are not cleaned, and therefore cannot meet good hygiene requirements for food and beverages. Therefore, an improved process is needed to enable the use of reusable containers.

[0016] In the process of this embodiment shown on the right side of FIG. 1 , from top to bottom, there are steps S1 (Container production), S2 (Cleaning), S3 (Storage and Transportation), S4 (Cleaning in dispensing machine), S5 (Storage in dispensing machine), S6 (Consumer), and S7 (Recollection). As shown in the figure, there are cases where steps S1, S2, S3, S5, S6, and S7 are performed in order, and cases where steps S1, S3, S4, S5, S6, and S7 are performed in order. At step S7, there are cases where the process proceeds to step S2 or to step S4. The cleaning process is performed (1) immediately after container production or (2) at a food and beverage dispensing device that allows for the reuse of containers. Alternatively, a cleaning step can be added after the collection of replaceable modular food and beverage containers. This can be done in a dedicated area or directly in the food and beverage distribution device (dispenser, dispenser / vending machine). If the containers are washed in a dedicated area, step S3, marked "storage and transport", must comply with food and beverage safety procedures to keep the containers clean. The cleaning step must remove any food and beverage residues, dirt and odors that may remain in the packaging, minimizing the microbiological load in accordance with hygiene and health regulations. Therefore, a hot water process using detergents is usually applied to achieve a satisfactory level of cleaning.

[0017] To enable this process, containers (bottles, cups, etc.) must be technically adapted for use in this new process, e.g., a reusable modular cup-bottle system for a dispenser, allowing parts of the system to be used in the dispenser, and each part or assembly to be cleaned separately. The cleaning process and / or sterilization can be implemented as a key step for one or more container components within the dispenser or in a dedicated location.

[0018] The new reusable container will be outlined below: Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a container according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] The container 1 comprises an outer container 2 and an inner container 3. In this embodiment, the outer container 2 has an outer cap portion 4, an outer body portion 5, and a base cap portion 6. The inner container 3 comprises an inner body portion 3a and an inner lid 3c. The outer cap portion 4 is a so-called outer lid and is designed to allow pouring and / or drinking. The outer cap portion 4 can be attached to either the inner container 3 or the outer body portion 5. The inner container 3 can be attached to the inside of the outer body portion 5 using a simple connection mechanism (screws, clips, etc.). The inner container 3 is made of a material suitable for cleaning (e.g., polymers (PET, PP, PE (low density, high density), PA, etc.)), ceramics (glass, porcelain, aluminum trioxide, etc.), or metals (stainless steel, aluminum, etc.). The inner container 3 is made of a food contact material that meets regulatory requirements. The inner container 3 and the outer body part 5 maintain a sufficient distance between the outer surface of the inner container 3 and the inner surface of the outer cap part 4 to prevent heat conduction from the inner container 3 to the outer body part 5, thereby protecting the user and keeping food and beverages at a warm temperature for a longer period of time.

[0020] Each component of the container 1 will now be described in more detail.

[0021] The outer cap portion 4 is optionally available with different mouthpiece / drinking piece designs, including straws, sport lids, sip lids, nipple caps, and flat caps. The outer cap portion 4 is made of a material approved for food contact. The outer cap portion 4 is also made of a material that can withstand temperatures from 10°C to 100°C, preferably from -10°C to 70°C. The outer cap portion 4 is also made of a material that is resistant to detergents, particularly those used in container washing processes. The outer cap portion 4 is attached to the inner container 3 or the outer body portion 5 using a leak-tight system, such as (a) twist / screw, (b) clipping, or (c) a rubber / silicone ring / band. The outer cap portion 4 holds the inner lid 3c in place and provides a connection for opening the inner lid 3c. A unique identifier can be attached to the outer cap 4. By attaching a unique identifier to the outer cap 4, it is possible to track and trace the entire process, including the usage status and cleaning status. Specifically, various technologies such as (a) RFID, (b) NFC tag, (c) Bluetooth (registered trademark), (d) barcode, and (e) QR code (registered trademark) can be used.

[0022] The inner container 3 is made of a material approved for contact with food. The inner container 3 is made of a material that can withstand temperatures from 10°C to 100°C, preferably from -10°C to 70°C. The inner container 3 is made of a material that is resistant to detergents. More specifically, the inner container 3 is made of a material that is resistant to detergents used in container washing processes. The inner container 3 is attached to the outer cap 4 or outer body 5 using a leak-tight system, such as: (a) twist / screw, (b) clipping, or (c) rubber / silicone ring / band. The inner container 3 is designed to maintain a sufficient distance between its inner surface (the inner surface of the inner container 3) and the outer body 5. In other words, the container 1 has a spacing portion (described below) that maintains a sufficient distance between the outer surface of the inner container 3 and the inner surface of the outer body 5. The reason for maintaining this sufficient distance is to protect the user by preventing heat transfer from the inner container 3 to the outer body 5 and to keep the food or beverage warm for a longer period of time. The sufficient distance is between 1 mm and 10 mm, and more preferably between 2 mm and 5 mm. The inner container 3 can be made to have various volumes while maintaining this sufficient distance.

[0023] The various volumes will now be described with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 shows an example of an inner container with various volumes compared to the inner container of Figure 2. Note that the sufficient distance is small, so the illustration is exaggerated.

[0024] The internal container 3 shown in FIG. 3 has an internal body portion 3a housed in the external body portion 5 and an exposed portion 3b exposed to the outside through the opening of the external body portion 5. The exposed portion 3b corresponds to the "grab area" described below (the "grab area" may be the entire internal body portion including the internal body portion 3a, not just the exposed portion 3b). The internal container 3 shown in FIG. 3(a) is formed with a volume such that the distance between the outer surface of the internal body portion 3a and the inner surface of the external body portion 5 is maintained at 1 mm. The internal container 3 shown in FIG. 3(b) is formed with a volume such that the distance between the outer surface of the internal body portion 3a and the inner surface of the external body portion 5 is maintained at 2 to 5 mm. The internal container 3 shown in FIG. 3(c) is formed with a volume such that the distance between the outer surface of the internal body portion 3a and the inner surface of the external body portion 5 is maintained at 10 mm.

[0025] Returning to FIG. 2 , the inner container 3 can be equipped with a unique identifier. By equipping the inner container 3 with a unique identifier, it is possible to track and trace the entire process, including the usage status and cleaning status. Specifically, various technologies such as (a) RFID, (b) NFC tag, (c) Bluetooth (registered trademark), (d) barcode, and (e) QR code (registered trademark) can be used. The inner container 3 has a gripping area that allows the user to lift the inner container 3 while it is housed in the outer main body portion 5.

[0026] The outer body 5 is made of a material approved for contact with food. The outer body 5 is made of a material that can withstand temperatures from 10°C to 100°C, preferably from -10°C to 70°C. The outer body 5 is made of a material that is resistant to detergents. More specifically, the outer body 5 is made of a material that is resistant to detergents used in container washing processes. The outer body 5 is attached to at least the inner container 3 using a leak-tight system, such as: (a) twisting / screws, (b) clipping, or (c) a rubber / silicone ring / band. The outer body 5 is designed to maintain a sufficient distance between its outer surface (the outer surface of the outer body 5) and the inner surface of the inner container 3. In other words, the container 1 has a spacing portion (described below) that maintains a sufficient distance between the outer surface of the inner container 3 and the inner surface of the outer body 5. The reason for maintaining this sufficient distance is to prevent heat transfer from the inner container 3 to the outer body 5, protecting the user and keeping the food or beverage warmer for longer. The sufficient distance is between 1 mm and 10 mm, more preferably between 2 mm and 5 mm. The outer body 5 can have several shapes and configurations to allow for brand marketing while still maintaining the sufficient distance.

[0027] The shape and form that enable the brand marketing will now be described with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing examples of several shapes and forms that enable brand marketing on the external body part of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 allows for various handling and adaptation to accommodate various use cases (e.g., a rugged exterior for use in harsh environments). Note that the sufficient distance is small, so the illustration is exaggerated. Here, although not particularly limited, the entire external body part 5 is considered to be the "grab area," for example.

[0028] The external body 5 shown in FIG. 4( a) is formed in a shape having a constriction in the center in the axial direction. This constriction may be located at the top as shown in FIG. 4( b) or at the bottom as shown in FIG. 4( c). Returning to FIG. 2, the external body 5 can be equipped with a unique identifier. By equipping the external body 5 with a unique identifier, it is possible to track and trace the entire process, including usage and cleaning status. Specifically, various technologies such as (a) RFID, (b) NFC tag, (c) Bluetooth (registered trademark), (d) barcode, and (e) QR code (registered trademark) can be used. The external body 5 has a gripping area that allows the user to hold it.

[0029] The base cap 6 is made of a material approved for contact with food. The base cap 6 is made of a material that can withstand temperatures from 10°C to 100°C, preferably from -10°C to 70°C. The base cap 6 is made of a material that is resistant to detergents. More specifically, the base cap 6 is made of a material that is resistant to detergents used in container washing processes. The base cap 6 is attached to the outer body 5 using a leak-proof system, such as (a) twist / screw, (b) clipping, or (c) a rubber / silicone ring / band. The base cap 6 can take on several shapes and forms (not shown) to enable brand marketing, while ensuring the above-mentioned sufficient distance. The base cap 6 can be equipped with a unique identifier. By attaching a unique identifier, the outer body 5 can be tracked and traced throughout its entire process, including its usage and cleaning. Specifically, various technologies such as (a) RFID, (b) NFC tag, (c) Bluetooth (registered trademark), (d) barcode, (e) QR code (registered trademark), etc. (registered trademarks are included) can be used. The base cap portion 6 also ensures the structure of the container 1 and maintains a minimum wall thickness depending on the material used. The base cap portion 6 can be equipped with the following: (a) computer memory, (b) speaker, (c) battery pack, (d) timer, (e) light, etc.

[0030] In the above explanation, materials suitable for cleaning (e.g., polymers (PET, PP, PE (low density, high density), PA, etc.), ceramics (glass, earthenware, aluminum trioxide, etc.), metals (stainless steel, aluminum, etc.)) have been applied to the inner container 3, but they are also naturally applicable to the outer container 2.

[0031] Next, the configuration of a food and drink distribution system to which the food and drink distribution device of one embodiment of the present invention is applied will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a food and drink distribution system to which the food and drink distribution device of one embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0032] The food and drink distribution system shown in Figure 5 is configured to include a food and drink distribution device 101, a user terminal 102, and a service management server 103. The food and drink distribution device 101, the user terminal 102, and the service management server 103 are connected to each other via a network N such as the Internet.

[0033] The food and beverage distribution device 101 is a device configured to be able to use innovative modular, integrated reusable containers that have the functions of flask bottles, insulated double-walled bottles, and / or cups, and more specifically, is a device that, upon collecting an outer container from a user U who purchases food and beverages, can seal an inner container for holding food and beverages into the outer container on the spot and distribute the food and beverages in the container 1.

[0034] The user terminal 102 is an information processing device operated by a user U, and is composed of a smartphone, tablet, personal computer, etc. The service management server 103 is an information processing device managed by the provider of this service, and although not specifically shown, like a known server, it includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), a bus, an input / output interface, an input unit, an output unit, a storage unit, a communication unit, and a drive.

[0035] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a food and drink distribution device in the food and drink distribution system shown in FIG.

[0036] The food and beverage distribution device 101 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 111, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 112, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 113, a bus 114, an input / output interface 115, an input unit 116, an output unit 117, a memory unit 118, a communication unit 119, a drive 120, and a food and beverage distribution unit 121.

[0037] The CPU 111 executes various processes in accordance with a program recorded in the ROM 112 or a program loaded from the storage unit 118 to the RAM 113. The RAM 113 also stores data and the like necessary for the CPU 111 to execute various processes, as appropriate.

[0038] The CPU 111, ROM 112, and RAM 113 are interconnected via a bus 114. An input / output interface 115 is also connected to this bus 114. An input unit 116, an output unit 117, a storage unit 118, a communication unit 119, and a drive 120 are connected to the input / output interface 115.

[0039] The input unit 116 is configured with, for example, a keyboard and is used to input various types of information. The output unit 117 is configured with, for example, a display such as an LCD, a speaker, and the like and outputs various types of information as images and sounds. The storage unit 118 is configured with, for example, a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) and is used to store various types of data. The communication unit 119 communicates with other devices (for example, the user terminal 102 and the service management server 103 in FIG. 5 ) via a network N including the Internet.

[0040] Removable media 130, which may be a magnetic disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, semiconductor memory, or the like, is appropriately attached to the drive 120. Programs read from the removable media 130 by the drive 120 are installed in the storage unit 118 as needed. The removable media 130 can also store various data stored in the storage unit 118 in the same way as the storage unit 118.

[0041] The food and drink distribution unit 121 collects the outer container 2 and outputs the container 1 in which the food and drink is sealed. The food and drink distribution unit 121 will be described later with reference to FIG.

[0042] Although not shown, the user terminal 102 and the service management server 103 in Fig. 5 can also have a configuration basically similar to the hardware configuration shown in Fig. 6. Therefore, a description of the hardware configuration of the user terminal 102 and the service management server 103 of the food and beverage distribution system will be omitted.

[0043] The food and drink dispensing device 101 of FIG. 6 can execute various processes through cooperation of various hardware and software that constitute the food and drink dispensing system of FIG. 5, including the food and drink dispensing device 101 of FIG.

[0044] 7 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the food and drink distribution device of FIG. 6 that constitutes the food and drink distribution system shown in FIG.

[0045] As shown in Figure 7, the food and beverage distribution unit 121 of the food and beverage distribution device 101 functions as an internal container storage unit 201, an internal container cleaning unit 202, a food and beverage storage unit 203, a food and beverage filling unit 204, an external container recovery unit 205, a container insertion unit 206, and a container output unit 207. In addition, the CPU 11 functions as a desired food and beverage acquisition unit 301, an external container identification unit 302, a payment processing unit 303, an internal container identification unit 304, a food and beverage history information management unit 305, and an internal container rental unit 306. The user DB 401, external container DB 402, and internal container DB 403 shown in Figure 7 are assumed to exist, for example, on the cloud (the database arrangement in Figure 7 is assumed to be one example).

[0046] The inner container storage unit 201 executes control related to the storage and management of the inner containers 3. Here, a predetermined number of inner containers 3 are stored and managed. The inner container storage unit 201 executes control to acquire inner container identification information from an RFID, NFC tag, Bluetooth (registered trademark), barcode, QR code (registered trademark), etc. (registered trademarks are included) provided on the inner container 3, and to output this acquired inner container identification information to the inner container identification unit 304.

[0047] The internal container washing unit 202 executes control related to the washing of the internal container 3. Specifically, it executes control related to the washing of the internal container 3 before sealing it into the external container 2. Since the internal container washing unit 202 washes the internal container 3 that holds food and drink before sealing it into the external container 2, the food and drink dispensing device 101 can effectively maintain cleanliness.

[0048] The food and drink storage unit 203 executes control related to the storage and management of food and drink. Specifically, it stores and manages food and drink before filling into the inner container 3. Here, multiple types of food and drink are stored and managed. The food and drink storage unit 203 acquires information about food and drink desired by the user U based on the control of the desired food and drink acquisition unit 301.

[0049] In response to receiving desired food and beverage information related to the food and beverage desired by the user U, the food and beverage filling unit 204 executes control related to filling the internal container 3 with the desired food and beverage. The food and beverage filling unit 204 executes control related to on-demand filling of the internal container 3 with food and beverage. Note that the food and beverage may be freely combined with purees, concentrates, syrups, powders, flavors, supplements, tapioca pearls, aloe, marshmallows, and the like, using a liquid cartridge or capsule system. The food and beverage filling unit 204 may be configured to fill the internal container 3 with food and beverage customized for each user U with the support of AI. Furthermore, the food and beverage filling unit 204 may, for example, use an AI avatar to notify the user of excessive sugar intake or recommend the intake of water, supplements, or probiotics. The liquid cartridge and capsule system may be opened to third parties by setting an interface with the food and beverage dispensing device 101. Furthermore, the accumulated and stored food intake record information of the user U may be linked to a third-party healthcare app or the like via an API. The food and beverage filling unit 204 can flexibly manage the combination of food and beverage to be distributed and the internal container 3 to be used. The food and beverage filling unit 204 also controls the sealing of the internal main body portion 3a with the inner lid 3c.

[0050] The outer container collection unit 205 executes control related to the acceptance of the outer container 2 to be collected from the user U. Specifically, the outer container collection unit 205 executes control to acquire outer container identification information from an RFID, NFC tag, Bluetooth (registered trademark), barcode, QR code (registered trademark), etc. (registered trademarks are included) provided on the outer container 2, and to output the acquired outer container identification information to the outer container identification unit 302. The outer container collection unit 205 can make the food and beverage distribution device 101 into an outer container collection machine and food dispensing machine for the outer container 2. The outer container collection unit 205 may include a separation mechanism for used inner containers 3. Specifically, the outer container may be configured so that the outer main body portion 5 and the outer cap portion 4 can be separated from each other using screws or the like, and the outer container 2 may be separated by twisting (turning) using a robot arm using hook portions provided on the bottom of the outer main body portion 5 of the outer container 2 and the outer cap portion 4 of the outer container 2, and then the inner container 3 (including the inner lid 3c) may be separated by pulling it out from the outer container 2 with the robot arm.

[0051] The container insertion unit 206 executes control related to inserting the internal container 3 holding the food or drink desired by the user U into the external container 2. The container output unit 207 executes control related to outputting the container 1 in a state where the internal container 3 holding the food or drink is inserted into the external container 2. In other words, the container output unit 207 executes control related to distributing the container 1 in a state where the internal container 3 holding the food or drink is inserted into the external container 2 to the user U. By the functioning of the container output unit 207 and the external container recovery unit 205, etc., the food and drink dispensing device 101 can automate the recovery of the external container 2 and the distribution of the food and drink using the container 1.

[0052] The desired food and drink acquisition unit 301 executes control related to the acquisition of information on food and drink desired by the user U (desired food and drink information). The desired food and drink acquisition unit 301 also executes control to output the acquired desired food and drink information to the food and drink storage unit 203. The desired food and drink acquisition unit 301 stores the desired food and drink information and the user information acquired together with this desired food and drink information in the user DB 401. Note that the user information here is assumed to be information about the user U who owns the external container 2 identified by the external container identification information. The desired food and drink acquisition unit 301 also executes control to output at least the desired food and drink information and the user information to the food and drink history information management unit 305.

[0053] The external container identification unit 302 executes control related to the acceptance of external container identification information acquired from the external container 2 by the external container recovery unit 205. In addition, the external container identification unit 302 outputs the acquired external container identification information to the payment processing unit 303 and stores it in the external container DB 402.

[0054] The payment processing unit 303 executes processing related to the payment of the price of food and beverages to a user U who possesses an external container 2 identified by the external container identification information provided by the external container identification unit 302. By functioning the payment processing unit 303, the food and beverage distribution device 101 can realize automation of the payment procedure for food and beverages. Note that the user information identifying the user U required for payment may be stored in the food and beverage distribution device 101, or may be stored in an external server that can communicate with the food and beverage distribution device 101 in association with the identifier of the external container 2, and then collated and used for payment.

[0055] The internal container identification unit 304 executes control related to the reception of internal container identification information provided from the internal container storage unit 201. Furthermore, the internal container identification unit 304 outputs the acquired internal container identification information to the food and drink history information management unit 305 and stores it in the internal container DB 403.

[0056] The food and beverage history information management unit 305 controls the management and display of the history of food and beverages held in the internal container 3 (e.g., food production date, temperature record, humidity record, etc.) based on the acquired internal container identification information. The food and beverage history information management unit 305 also controls the management of information that associates the internal container identification information with the fact that the internal container 3 has been loaned to user U, as part of the history information related to the internal container 3. The food and beverage history information management unit 305 can realize tracking using an identifier that identifies the internal container 3. By functioning the food and beverage history information management unit 305, the food and beverage dispensing device 101 can automatically manage the history information of food and beverages.

[0057] The internal container rental unit 306 executes control related to lending the internal container 3 to the user U. Regarding lending, the external container recovery unit 205 does not accept the external container 2 to be collected from the user U, but instead receives a request from the user U to distribute food or beverage under predetermined conditions (e.g., payment of a deposit, etc.). In response, the container insertion unit 206 distributes the internal container 3 containing the desired food or beverage to the user U based on the internal container identification information without inserting it into the external container 2. In the case of such lending, the internal container 3 may be provided with a silicone or paper sleeve and / or lid for insulation and grip purposes before being lent. By functioning the internal container rental unit 306, the internal container 3 can be lent to a user U who forgets to bring their external container 2 and used as an external container. In this case, the deposit can be refunded after the user U returns the internal container 3. In principle, the outer container 2 belongs to the user, and the inner container 3 is the property of the vendor, but as an exception, it can be loaned to a user U who has paid a deposit.

[0058] With the above-mentioned functions, the present invention can use an innovative modular integrated reusable container that has the functions of a flask bottle, an insulated double-walled bottle, and / or a cup. More specifically, the present invention can collect an outer container 2 from a user U who purchases food and beverages, and then seal (insert) an inner container 3 for holding the food and beverages into the outer container 2 on the spot to distribute the food and beverages.

[0059] Next, a specific example of the container 1 will be described. Figure 8 is a diagram showing a specific example of the container shown in Figure 2. Note that while the shape shown here is suitable for beverages, it is of course possible to make the container into a shape suitable for, for example, a lunch box or a soup container.

[0060] The container 1 is composed of an outer container 2 and an inner container 3. The outer container 2 has an outer cap portion 4 and an outer main body portion 5. Note that the outer main body portion 5 here has a base cap portion (reference numeral omitted) integrated into its bottom side. The outer cap portion 4 has an outer cap main body 4a and a seal portion 4b. A mouthpiece (reference numeral omitted) is formed on the upper outer surface of the outer cap main body 4a. Furthermore, an outer container side engagement portion 4c for the inner container 3 is formed on the lower inner surface of the outer cap main body 4a. The seal portion 4b is made of, for example, silicone and is shaped to be able to seal and open the food and beverage passage portion 3g of the inner lid 3c of the inner container 3 (described later). Note that the opening and closing of the food and beverage passage portion 3g by the seal portion 4b will be described later.

[0061] The outer body portion 5 is generally cup-shaped, having a circular top opening, a bottom wall portion smaller in diameter than the top opening, and side walls. The outer body portion 5 is formed with a double-wall structure to provide thermal insulation to the bottom and side walls. The top opening of the outer body portion 5 is provided with a spacing portion 5a for maintaining a predetermined distance between the outer body portion 5 and the inner container 3 inserted in the food and beverage dispensing device 101. The spacing portion 5a contributes to maintaining the predetermined distance and suppressing temperature changes of the food held in the inner container 3. The bottom wall of the outer body portion 5 is provided with a concave container-side hook portion 5b that hooks onto a convex device-side hook portion 210 provided on the food and beverage dispensing unit 121 of the food and beverage dispensing device 101. The container-side hook portion 5b is provided to prevent the outer body portion 5 from following when the outer cap portion 4 is twisted (rotated) in the food and beverage dispensing device 101. In addition, a unique identifier 5c using technology such as RFID, NFC tag, Bluetooth (registered trademark), barcode, QR code (registered trademark), etc. (registered trademarks included) is attached to the bottom wall of the external main body portion 5.

[0062] The inner container 3 has an inner main body 3a and an inner lid 3c. The inner main body 3a is shaped so that it can be inserted into the outer main body 5 of the food and beverage dispensing device 101. Specifically, the inner main body 3a is generally cup-shaped, having a circular upper opening, a bottom wall with a smaller diameter than the upper opening, and side walls. The upper opening of the inner main body 3a is provided with an inner container side engagement portion 3d that corresponds to the outer container side engagement portion 4c of the outer cap body 4a. The upper opening of the inner main body 3a is also provided with a seal portion 3e that tightly fits the inner lid 3c. A unique identifier 3f using technology such as RFID, NFC tag, Bluetooth (registered trademark), barcode, QR code (registered trademark), etc. (including registered trademarks) is attached to the bottom wall of the inner main body 3a. The inner lid 3c is made of silicone and covers the upper opening of the inner main body 3a. The food and beverage passage 3g (described later) is covered by the seal portion 4b of the outer cap 4.

[0063] When the container 1 described above is collected by the user U into the food and beverage distribution device 101, the inner container 3 filled with food and beverage is inserted into the outer container 2, and in this state it is output (provided) from the food and beverage distribution device 101. The user U receives the output container 1 and can drink or eat the desired food and beverage.

[0064] Next, the opening and closing of the food and drink passage portion 3g by the seal portion 4b will be described. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of the opening and closing of the food and drink passage portion by the seal portion of Figure 8.

[0065] A magnet 3h is provided at the opening of the food and beverage passage portion 3g of the inner lid 3c. Meanwhile, a magnetic tip 4d with an integrated seal portion 4b is provided on the outer cap body 4a. In the example shown in FIG. 9, when the magnet 3h and the magnetic tip 4d of the food and beverage passage portion 3g are magnetically joined, the seal portion 4b closes the opening of the food and beverage passage portion 3g. Also, in the first option example shown in FIG. 9, a counter magnet portion 4f with a powerful magnet 4e is provided on the outer cap body 4a, and the magnetic force of this powerful magnet 4e moves the magnetic tip 4d integrated with the seal portion 4b to open the opening of the food and beverage passage portion 3g. Alternatively, in the second option example, an engagement portion 4g is provided on the outer cap body 4a, which can pull or rotate the magnetic tip 4d integrated with the seal portion 4b when the outer cap body 4a is twisted open, thereby opening the opening of the food and beverage passage portion 3g.

[0066] Next, modified examples will be described. In addition to the configuration and structure shown in Figs. 8 and 9, the outer cap part may be configured to include an outer cap upper part (outer lid part) and an upper cap main part (inner lid part) that can be opened and closed using a hinge, a screw, or the like. As a modified example, related to Figs. 8 and 9, a configuration may be adopted in which a silicone or rubber seal closes the opening in the inner container when the outer cap part is closed. Furthermore, a configuration may be adopted in which the outer cap upper part and the outer cap main part are brought into contact with each other using magnets that can be separated by turning or pulling a screw, thereby closing the opening. Alternatively, the outer cap part may be configured to include a cover piece that is disposed between the upper part of the inner container and the upper part of the outer container and that closes the opening in the inner container when the outer cap part is closed. Furthermore, a mechanism may be employed in which a needle or funnel can be inserted into the silicone or rubber inner cap by closing the top of the outer cap, thereby allowing access to the food contents while maintaining the sealed state. By employing such a variation, the inner container holding the food can be sealed or the food removed by attaching or detaching the cap.

[0067] In another variation, the inner container may include an inner main part and an inner cap part that can seal the inner main part and has an opening for consuming food or beverages. By using such an inner container, the inner cap part can seal the inner main part while providing access for consuming food or beverages (e.g., pouring beverages or removing food). The opening mechanism may be realized by a mechanism that can tear the film-like inner cap part, or by pressing the inner cap part made of a flexible material such as rubber or silicone.

[0068] As yet another modification, the outer cap may include a power supply part. This power supply part has the advantage that electricity from the power supply part can be used for tracking food consumption and temperature, keeping food hot or cold, communicating with the outside world, a timer / clock / screen display / LED light source, etc. Although not shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 , the base cap 6 (see FIG. 2 ) may also have a power supply part. This has the advantage that electricity from the power supply part can be used for temperature sensors (for measuring external and internal temperatures), water level sensors (using Time of Flight sensors), flow rate sensors, water quality sensors, odor sensors, air sensors, toxin sensors, heaters / coolers, touch sensors (for measuring sweat level, heart rate, pulse wave, aerobic exercise, etc.), etc.

[0069] Next, a specific example of the container shown in Fig. 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 10 to Fig. 14. Fig. 10 to Fig. 14 are diagrams showing specific examples of the container and outer container shown in Fig. 2, respectively.

[0070] The container 1 shown in Fig. 10 is configured to include an outer container 2 and an inner container 3. The outer container 2 is configured to include an outer cap portion 4 having an outer cap upper portion and an outer cap main body portion as shown in the figure, and an outer main body portion 5. The inner container 3 is configured to include an inner main body portion 3a and an inner lid 3c. The container 1 shown in Fig. 10 may be used in place of the example in Fig. 8, for example.

[0071] The container 1 shown in Fig. 11 is configured to include an outer container 2 and an inner container 3. The outer container 2 is configured to include an outer cap portion 4, as shown in the figure, which has an outer cap upper portion and an outer cap main body portion, and an outer main body portion 5. The inner container 3 is configured to include an inner main body portion 3a and an inner lid 3c. In Fig. 11, the inner lid 3c is configured to allow a straw to be inserted. This container 1 shown in Fig. 11 may be used in place of the example shown in Fig. 8, for example.

[0072] The container 1 shown in Fig. 12 is suitable when the inner lid 3c of the inner container 3 is, for example, a film-like material, and is designed so that the outer cap portion 4 can be removed and the inner lid 3c can be torn with a straw, etc. Such a container 1 shown in Fig. 12 may be used in place of the example in Fig. 8, for example.

[0073] The container 1 shown in Fig. 13 is designed so that when the outer cap portion 4 is removed, the inner lid 3c of the inner container 3 is also removed. The container 1 shown in Fig. 13 may be used in place of the example in Fig. 8, for example.

[0074] The container 1 shown in Figure 14 can have a variety of external caps 4, such as (a) twist / screw, (b) clipping, and (c) rubber / silicone ring / band fastening. These variations may be used in place of the example shown in Figure 8.

[0075] 15 is a diagram showing an example of an outline of the process of inserting the inner container into the outer container. For example, multiple inner main bodies 3a are stored in the food and beverage dispensing device 101, and are inserted into the outer main body 5. When the inner main body 3a is inserted into the outer main body 5, a sufficient distance (predetermined gap) of 1 mm to 10 mm (more preferably 2 mm to 5 mm) is ensured between them (to suppress temperature changes).

[0076] Next, a rental cup will be described. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a rental cup.

[0077] In the case of the rental described above, the rental cup 3' is provided with a silicone or paper sleeve part 5' for insulation and grip purposes, and a plastic or paper lid part 4'.

[0078] Next, the overall flow will be described with reference to Fig. 17 and Fig. 18. Fig. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of the first half of the overall flow involving machine actions, user actions, and in-app / browser actions. Fig. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of the second half following Fig. 17.

[0079] In the flowcharts shown in Figures 17 and 18, the "machine" corresponds to the food and beverage dispensing device 101 described above. Steps surrounded by dashed lines in the figures indicate machine actions. Steps surrounded by solid lines indicate user actions. Steps surrounded by dashed lines indicate in-app / browser related steps. The flowcharts shown in Figures 17 and 18 show a series of steps from when a user U is in front of the food and beverage dispensing device 101 to when he or she takes out a container 1 filled with food and beverage.

[0080] Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and modifications, improvements, etc. within the scope of achieving the object of the present invention are considered to be included in the present invention.

[0081] Furthermore, the system configuration shown in Figure 5 and the hardware configuration of the food and drink distribution device 101 shown in Figure 6 are merely examples for achieving the object of the present invention, and are not particularly limited.

[0082] The functional block diagram shown in Fig. 7 is merely an example and is not particularly limited. That is, it is sufficient for the food and beverage distribution system of Fig. 5 to be provided with the functions capable of executing the various processes described above as a whole, and the functional blocks and databases used to realize these functions are not particularly limited to those shown in Fig. 7.

[0083] Furthermore, the locations of the functional blocks and databases are not limited to those shown in Figure 7 and may be arbitrary. For example, at least some of the functional blocks and databases located on food and beverage dispensing device 101 side may be provided on user terminal 102 side, service management server 103 side, or another information processing device not shown.

[0084] The above-described series of processes can be executed by hardware or software, and each functional block can be configured by hardware alone, software alone, or a combination of both.

[0085] When a series of processes is executed by software, the programs constituting the software are installed onto a computer or the like from a network or a recording medium. The computer may be a computer incorporated into dedicated hardware. The computer may also be a computer capable of executing various functions by installing various programs, such as a server, a general-purpose smartphone, or a personal computer.

[0086] The recording medium containing such a program may be composed not only of a removable medium (not shown) that is distributed separately from the device main body in order to provide the program to the user, but also of a recording medium that is provided to the user in a state that is pre-installed in the device main body.

[0087] In this specification, the steps describing the program to be recorded on the recording medium include not only processes that are performed in chronological order, but also processes that are not necessarily performed in chronological order but are performed in parallel or individually.

[0088] To summarize the above, it is sufficient for a container to which the present invention is applied to have the following configuration, and various embodiments are possible. That is, a container to which the present invention is applied (for example, container 1 in Fig. 8) comprises an inner container (for example, inner container 3 in Fig. 8) for sealingly holding food or drink, and an outer container (for example, outer container 2 in Fig. 8) into which the inner container can be inserted to distribute the food or drink to a user (for example, user U in Fig. 5), and the outer container is one into which the inner container is inserted upon collection of the outer container from the user.

[0089] With such a container, when the outer container is collected from the user who purchases the food or beverage, an inner container for holding the food or beverage can be sealed in the outer container on the spot and the food or beverage can be distributed.

[0090] The outer container may also include an outer body portion (for example, outer body portion 5 in FIG. 8), and an outer cap portion (for example, outer cap portion 4 in FIG. 8) that is detachable from the outer body portion.

[0091] The inner container may also have an inner body portion (e.g., inner body portion 3a in Figure 8) that holds the food or beverage, and an inner cap portion (e.g., inner lid 3c in Figure 8) that can seal the food or beverage held in the inner body portion and can be opened to distribute the food or beverage to the user.

[0092] Furthermore, the external cap portion of the external container may have a power supply unit (for example, the power supply unit may be capable of using electricity to track the consumption status and temperature of food and drink, keep food hot or cold, communicate with the outside, provide a timer / clock / screen display / LED light source, etc.).

[0093] The outer container may further include an identification information providing section (for example, an identifier 5c in FIG. 8) that provides identification information for identifying the outer container.

[0094] Also, a spacing member (for example, spacing member 5a in FIG. 8) for forming a predetermined gap between the inserted inner container and the outer container may be further provided.

[0095] A food and beverage distribution device to which the present invention is applicable (for example, food and beverage distribution device 101 in Figure 7) comprises: an internal container (for example, internal container 3 in Figure 8) for sealingly holding food and beverage; and an external container (for example, external container 2 in Figure 8) into which the internal container can be inserted in order to distribute the food and beverage to a user (for example, user U in Figure 5), wherein the external container is inserted in response to the external container being collected from the user. A food and beverage distribution device that distributes food and beverage to a container (for example, container 1 in Figure 8) is sufficient if it comprises: an external container collection means (for example, external container collection unit 205 in Figure 7) for accepting the external container to be collected from the user; a container insertion means (for example, container insertion unit 206 in Figure 7) for inserting the internal container holding the food and beverage desired by the user into the external container; and a container output means (for example, container output unit 207 in Figure 7) for outputting the container with the internal container holding the food and beverage inserted into the external container.

[0096] This allows the outer container to be collected from a user who purchases food and drink, and then an inner container for holding the food and drink can be sealed in the outer container on the spot, and the food and drink can be distributed.

[0097] In addition, the external container may further have an identification information providing unit (e.g., identifier 5c in Figure 8) that provides external container identification information for identifying the external container, and the food and beverage distribution device may further have a payment processing means (e.g., payment processing unit 303 in Figure 7) that executes processing related to payment of the price of the food and beverage to the user who holds the external container identified by the provided external container identification information.

[0098] In addition, the device may further include a food and beverage filling means (e.g., food and beverage filling unit 204 in Figure 7) that fills the internal container with the food and beverage desired by the user in response to receiving desired food and beverage information related to the food and beverage desired by the user.

[0099] Also, an inner container washing means (for example, the inner container washing unit 202 in FIG. 7) for washing the inner container before it is enclosed in the outer container may be further provided.

[0100] In addition, the inner container of the container is provided with inner container identification information for identifying the inner container, and the container may further include a food and beverage history information management means (e.g., the food and beverage history information management unit 305 in Figure 7) that acquires the inner container identification information from the inner container and manages history information indicating the history of the food and beverage held in the inner container based on the inner container identification information.

[0101] In response to the external container collection means accepting a request from the user to distribute the food and beverage under specified conditions without accepting the external container to be collected from the user, the container insertion means stops its function, the container output means outputs the internal container holding the food and beverage, and the food and beverage history information management means manages, as part of the internal container history information of the internal container output from the container output means, information that associates the internal container identification information attached to the internal container with the fact that the internal container has been loaned to the user.

[0102] 1...container, 2...outer container, 3...inner container, 4...outer cap portion, 4a...outer cap body, 4b...seal portion, 5...outer body portion, 5a...spacing portion, 101...food and drink distribution device, 111...CPU, 112...ROM, 113...RAM, 114...bus, 115...input / output interface, 116...input portion, 117...output portion, 118...storage portion, 119...communication portion, 120...drive, 121...food and drink distribution portion, 130...rim Global media, 201... internal container storage unit, 202... internal container cleaning unit, 203... food and beverage storage unit, 204... food and beverage filling unit, 205... external container recovery unit, 206... container insertion unit, 207... container output unit, 301... desired food and beverage acquisition unit, 302... external container identification unit, 303... payment processing unit, 304... internal container identification unit, 305... food and beverage history information management unit, 306... internal container rental unit, 401... user DB, 402... external container DB, 403... internal container DB

Claims

1. A container comprising: an inner container for sealingly holding food or beverage; and an outer container into which the inner container can be inserted for distributing the food or beverage to a user, wherein the outer container is adapted to insert the inner container upon collection of the outer container from the user.

2. The container according to claim 1, wherein the outer container comprises: an outer body portion; and an outer cap portion that is removable from the outer body portion.

3. The container of claim 2, wherein the inner container has an inner body portion that holds the food or beverage, and an inner cap portion that is capable of sealing the food or beverage held in the inner body portion and that is openable for distributing the food or beverage to the user.

4. The container according to claim 2, wherein the outer cap portion of the outer container includes a power supply portion.

5. The container according to claim 1, further comprising an identification information providing portion for providing identification information for identifying said outer container.

6. The container according to claim 1, further comprising a spacer for forming a predetermined space between the inserted inner container and the outer container.

7. A food and beverage distribution device that distributes food and beverage to a container comprising: an inner container for sealingly holding food and beverage; and an outer container into which the inner container can be inserted in order to distribute the food and beverage to a user, wherein the outer container has the inner container inserted in response to the outer container being collected from the user, the food and beverage distribution device comprising: an outer container collection means for accepting the outer container to be collected from the user; a container insertion means for inserting the inner container holding the food and beverage desired by the user into the outer container; and a container output means for outputting the container with the inner container holding the food and beverage inserted into the outer container.

8. The food and beverage distribution device as described in claim 7, further comprising: an identification information providing unit that provides external container identification information for identifying the external container; and a payment processing means that executes processing related to payment of the price of the food and beverage to the user who holds the external container identified by the provided external container identification information.

9. A food and beverage distribution device as described in claim 7, further comprising a food and beverage filling means for filling the internal container with the food and beverage desired by the user in response to receiving desired food and beverage information relating to the food and beverage desired by the user.

10. The food and beverage dispensing device of claim 7, further comprising: an inner container cleaning means for cleaning the inner container before sealing it into the outer container.

11. The food and beverage distribution device of claim 7, further comprising: a food and beverage history information management means for managing history information indicating the history of the food and beverage held in the internal container based on the internal container identification information, wherein the internal container of the container is provided with internal container identification information for identifying the internal container.

12. A food and beverage distribution device as described in claim 11, wherein, in response to the external container recovery means accepting a distribution request for the food and beverage from the user under specified conditions without accepting the external container to be recovered from the user, the container insertion means stops its function, the container output means outputs the internal container holding the food and beverage, and the food and beverage history information management means manages, as part of the internal container history information of the internal container output from the container output means, information correlating the internal container identification information attached to the internal container with the fact that the internal container has been loaned to the user.

13. A food and beverage distribution method performed by a food and beverage distribution device that distributes food and beverage to a container comprising an inner container for sealingly holding food and beverage; and an outer container into which the inner container can be inserted in order to distribute the food and beverage to a user, wherein the inner container is inserted in response to the outer container being collected from the user, the food and beverage distribution method comprising: an outer container collection step of accepting the outer container to be collected from the user; a container insertion step of inserting the inner container holding the food and beverage desired by the user into the outer container; and a container output step of outputting the container with the inner container holding the food and beverage inserted into the outer container.

Images