Method for automatically renting and collecting reusable containers on basis of encoded unique identification codes, and system therefor

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for automatically renting and collecting reusable containers on the basis of encoded unique identification codes, and a system for performing the method. An embodiment of the present invention comprises: a rental step in which a rental device discharges a reusable container, recognizes an encoded unique identification number of the reusable container to be discharged, and stores rental information of the reusable container in a server computer; and a return step in which the reusable container is put into the return device, the encoded unique identification number of the put reusable container is recognized, and return information of the reusable container is stored in the server computer.

Description

A method and system for automatically renting and collecting reusable containers based on an encoded unique identification code.

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for automatically renting and collecting reusable containers based on an encoded unique identification code, and a system for executing the method.

[0002] More specifically, the present invention relates to a technology for managing the rental and return status of reusable containers and the status of rental and return devices by recognizing an encoded unique identification code included in a reusable container when renting or returning the reusable container.

[0003] Disposable items have simple structures tailored to their intended use and are typically less durable, but they offer the advantages of being easy to design and inexpensive to manufacture. In particular, items provided in public facilities, such as razors and toothbrushes provided in lodging facilities and bathhouses, and wooden chopsticks and plastic trays provided in restaurants, may be disposable to prevent bacterial and viral infections and maintain hygiene and safety.

[0004] Disposable products are primarily made from plastic. However, because plastic takes hundreds of years to fully decompose, the space available for landfilling discarded disposable products is gradually shrinking.

[0005] Furthermore, burying disposable products underground can release various pollutants, contaminating soil and groundwater. This can also lead to the formation of plastic islands, potentially destroying marine ecosystems. Incineration of discarded disposable products instead of landfilling can release hazardous substances like dioxins, potentially harming people and the ecosystem.

[0006] Accordingly, governments and public institutions around the world are strengthening regulations on disposable products made of plastic in various ways, while encouraging the use of reusable, multi-use products.

[0007] However, even if the use of reusable items is encouraged, it's difficult to collect reusable items like boxes, cups, bottles, and plates once they've been provided to consumers. In particular, store owners are unable to reclaim reusable items used for takeout items like coffee and beverages, forcing them to use disposable items.

[0008] From the consumer's perspective, it is difficult to widely use reusable products at present because it is inconvenient to return to a store located far away to return the reusable products provided when purchasing a product.

[0009] The purpose of the present invention is to solve the above problems, and to provide a method for automatically renting and collecting a reusable container based on an encoded unique identification code, and a system for executing the method.

[0010] In order to achieve the above object, one embodiment of the present invention includes a rental step in which a rental device discharges a reusable container, recognizes an encoded unique identification number of the reusable container to be discharged, and stores rental information of the reusable container in a server computer; and a return step in which a reusable container is inserted into a return device, recognizes an encoded unique identification number of the inserted reusable container, and stores return information of the reusable container in the server computer.

[0011] Another embodiment of the present invention includes a rental device that discharges a reusable container and recognizes an encoded unique identification number of the reusable container to be discharged; a return device that receives a reusable container and recognizes an encoded unique identification number of the received reusable container; and a server computer that stores rental information including the encoded unique identification number of the reusable container to be discharged and return information including the encoded unique identification number of the received reusable container.

[0012] The present invention allows a server computer to accurately manage the status of which reusable containers have been rented or returned when a user rents or returns a reusable container, by including a unique identification number encoded in the reusable container.

[0013] And because the rental or return device recognizes the encoded unique identification number contained in the reusable container and processes the rental or return process, users can easily use and return the reusable container without having to contact the reusable product supplier or collection company directly.

[0014] Additionally, by including reward features such as receiving a refund when returning a reusable container, the use of reusable products can be popularized by encouraging users to return reusable containers to a return device rather than disposing of them.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a schematic drawing of a system for automatically renting and collecting reusable containers based on an encoded unique identification code, and other components, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 2 is a diagram schematically showing the interactions between components of the system of the present invention at the software level.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing an example of a reusable container in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] FIG. 4 is a diagram briefly showing the configuration of an API of a server computer in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of bending machine application software in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] FIG. 6 is a diagram briefly showing the configuration of user terminal application software in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] FIG. 7 is a drawing schematically showing the configuration of a return device in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 8 is a diagram briefly showing the operating state of the bending machine application software in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically illustrating the operation sequence of the bending machine application software when renting a reusable container in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating the operation sequence of the bending machine application software when returning a reusable container in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] The following merely illustrates the principles of the present invention. Therefore, those skilled in the art will be able to implement the principles of the present invention and invent various devices within the scope and spirit of the present invention, even if not explicitly described or illustrated herein. Furthermore, all conditional terms and embodiments listed herein are expressly intended, in principle, to facilitate understanding of the present invention, and should be understood as being in no way limiting to the specifically enumerated embodiments and conditions.

[0026] Furthermore, it should be understood that all detailed descriptions of the principles, aspects, and embodiments of the present invention, as well as specific embodiments, are intended to encompass structural and functional equivalents thereof. Furthermore, it should be understood that such equivalents encompass not only currently known equivalents but also equivalents developed in the future, i.e., all devices invented to perform the same function, regardless of structure.

[0027] Thus, for example, the block diagrams herein should be understood as representing conceptual views of exemplary circuits embodying the principles of the present invention. Similarly, all flowcharts, state transition diagrams, pseudocode, and the like, which may be substantially represented on a computer-readable medium, should be understood as representing various processes performed by a computer or processor, regardless of whether a computer or processor is explicitly depicted.

[0028] The functions of various components depicted in the drawings, including functional blocks represented by processors or similar concepts, may be provided using dedicated hardware as well as hardware capable of executing software in conjunction with appropriate software. When provided by a processor, the functions may be provided by a single dedicated processor, a single shared processor, or multiple individual processors, some of which may be shared.

[0029] Furthermore, any explicit use of terms such as processor, controller, or similar concepts should not be construed as exclusively referring to hardware capable of executing software, but should be understood to implicitly include, without limitation, digital signal processor (DSP) hardware, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), and non-volatile memory for storing software. Other commonly used hardware may also be included.

[0030] In the claims of this specification, a component expressed as a means for performing a function described in the detailed description is intended to include any method for performing the function, including, for example, a combination of circuit elements performing the function, or any form of software including firmware / microcode, combined with appropriate circuitry for executing said software to perform the function. The invention defined by these claims should be understood to be equivalent to any means found in this specification for providing the functions provided by the various enumerated means, as long as they are combined and combined in the manner required by the claims.

[0031] The above-described purposes, features, and advantages will become more apparent through the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will be able to readily implement the technical concepts of the present invention. Furthermore, in describing the present invention, detailed descriptions of known technologies related to the present invention will be omitted if they are deemed to unnecessarily obscure the gist of the invention.

[0032] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0033] FIG. 1 is a schematic drawing of a system for automatically renting and collecting reusable containers based on an encoded unique identification code, and other components, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a system for automatically renting and collecting reusable containers based on an encoded unique identification code (hereinafter, “the system of the present invention”) may include a server computer (100), a vending machine network (200), a reusable container (300), a user terminal device (400), and an administrator terminal device (500).

[0035] In one embodiment of the present invention, a "user" is a consumer who rents, uses, and returns reusable containers from the system of the present invention. A "vending machine manager" is an authorized field worker who operates the rental and return devices for reusable containers and manages their operational status. A "logistics operator" is an authorized field worker who supplies reusable containers to the rental device and collects reusable containers stored in the return device. A user can be authenticated by the system of the present invention to perform tasks as a vending machine manager or logistics operator.

[0036] The server computer (100) may be a computing system accessible via a data communication network such as the Internet. To process requests from other components, the server computer (100) may include a protocol suite implementing a data communication protocol, a port that distinguishes application software for processing transmitted and received data, and an application programming interface (API) that provides functions implemented in the system of the present invention to other components.

[0037] The server computer (100) may be located in close proximity to other components or may be located remotely. The server computer (100) may be a collection of multiple computing devices, including a processor, memory, and input / output devices, connected via a data communications network. Alternatively, the server computer (100) may be application software running on a virtual machine or a resource running on a cloud service.

[0038] The vending machine network (200) may be a collection of multiple rental devices (210) and return devices (220). The rental device (210) may store one or more reusable containers (300) and issue the reusable containers (300) to the user in response to the user's rental request. The return device (220) may recognize and store the reusable containers (300) returned by the user. In the example, the rental device (210) and the return device (220) are shown as separate configurations, but the functions of both devices may be performed by a single device.

[0039] The reusable container (300) may be a product that can be reused multiple times. For example, the reusable container (300) may be a box, cup, bottle, plate, cylinder, tray, container, etc. Any container that can be reused may be applied to the system of the present invention.

[0040] The reusable container (300) may include an encoded unique identification code, which allows the rental device (210) and the return device (220) to identify which reusable container (300) it is. The encoded unique identification code may be a barcode, a QR code, or a code encoded using a radio frequency identification (RFID) or near field communication (NFC) protocol. The encoded unique identification code may be attached to the reusable container (300) or embedded within the reusable container (300).

[0041] The user terminal device (400) may be a computing device used by a user to rent and return a reusable container (300). The manager terminal device (500) may be a computing device used by a vending machine manager and a logistics operator to check and control the status of the rental device (210) and the return device (220).

[0042] The user terminal device (400) and the administrator terminal device (500) may be, for example, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a smartphone, a tablet computer, a smartwatch, or a portable computer having a processor, a memory device, and an input / output device. The user terminal device (400) and the administrator terminal device (500) may include a network interface card and be connected to a data communication network to interact with the server computer (100) and the vending machine network (200).

[0043] The server computer (100), rental device (210), return device (220), user terminal device (400), and administrator terminal device (500) are each connected to a data communication network and can transmit or receive data, and transmit requests and responses to requests.

[0044] The data communication network to which each component is connected may be one or more of a personal area network (PAN), a local area network (LAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), and a wide area network (WAN). Each component may transmit or receive data using a data communication protocol such as TCP / IP (transmission control protocol / internet protocol), SMB (server message block), CIFS (common internet file system), or NFS (network file system).

[0045] Figure 2 is a diagram schematically showing the interactions between components of the system of the present invention at the software level.

[0046] The rental device (210) and the return device (220) may each have a bending machine application software (201) and a bending machine application firmware (202) installed and executed. The bending machine application software (201) may display a graphical user interface, and a user or a bending machine manager may operate the bending machine application firmware (202) in response to a command selected from the graphical user interface. The bending machine application firmware (202) may control the operation of the rental device (210) or the return device (220) in response to a command received from the bending machine application software (201).

[0047] A user terminal application software (401) may be installed and executed on a user terminal device (400). The user terminal application software (401) may interact with a rental device (210), a return device (220), and a reusable container (300) in response to a command selected by a user, and may transmit a request to a server computer (100) and receive a response using an API (101) provided by the server computer (100).

[0048] An administrator terminal device (500) may have administrator terminal application software (501) installed and executed. The administrator application (501) may interact with the rental device (210), the return device (220), and the reusable container (300) in response to commands selected by the vending machine manager, and may be authenticated using the API (101) of the server computer (100).

[0049] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing an example of a reusable container in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] In one embodiment of the present invention, the reusable container (300) may be, for example, one or more of a box, an envelope, a cup, a plate, a bottle, a cylinder, a tray, or a container. Without being limited to the examples, the reusable container (300) may be a commonly used and reusable item in service industries such as supermarkets, restaurants, bars, and food delivery services, and may be used to hold products. Furthermore, the reusable container (300) may be used more than once, not just once.

[0051] The reusable container (300) may include an encoded unique identification number (301). The encoded unique identification number (301) may be an encoded unique identification number, and may be, for example, any one of a barcode, a QR code, an RFID tag, an NFC tag, or a digital watermark. However, the encoded unique identification code (301) is not limited to the examples, and may be a code encoded using any other standard technology that can be read by a computing device. In addition, the encoded unique identification code (301) may be inserted, attached, printed, or engraved into the reusable container (300).

[0052] The server computer (100) can generate and encode a unique identification number for each reusable container (300) and assign it to the reusable container (300).

[0053] FIG. 4 is a diagram briefly showing the configuration of an API of a server computer in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] The server API (101) included in the server computer (100) has modules and a database for executing each function, and can receive requests from other components of the system of the present invention, process the requests in response to the requests, and transmit a response including the processing result to other components.

[0055] The request verification module (102) can verify API calls received by the server computer (100). For example, the request verification module (102) can perform verification tasks such as checking the usage rights of the configuration that transmitted the request and checking for security vulnerabilities within the API call.

[0056] The process processing module (103) can analyze data received by the server computer (100), assign and process tasks corresponding to requests, and provide a response to the processing result to the component that sent the request.

[0057] The transaction history database (104) can store API call history and server computer (100) operation history and logs.

[0058] The device status module (105) can monitor the status of devices (rental devices (210) and return devices (220)) included in the bending machine network (200) in real time.

[0059] The device control module (106) can change and update the configuration of the bending machine network (200) and the status of the devices included in the bending machine network (200).

[0060] The device configuration module (107) can change the setting variables of the devices included in the bending machine network (200).

[0061] The rental device database (108) and the return device database (109) can store status, configuration, and setting variable information of the rental device (210) and the return device (220), respectively.

[0062] The event scheduler and processing module (110) can store and trigger events or responses that occur based on predefined events or system operating conditions. For example, the event scheduler and processing module (110) can update the bending machine application firmware (202) or change the setting variables of the rental device (210) and return device (220) in response to an event that occurs.

[0063] The payment processing module (111) can perform all tasks related to charging a deposit to a user or a user terminal device (400) when renting a reusable container (300). For example, the payment processing module (111) can charge a fee required when a user rents a reusable container (300). The payment processing module (111) can provide a user interface for entering payment information to the user terminal device (400) using an API provided by a payment system (e.g., a payment system operated by a bank or credit card company), and can receive payment information from the user and provide it to the payment system. Alternatively, the payment processing module (111) can be integrated with a payment system to process payment tasks.

[0064] The refund processing module (112) can perform all tasks related to refunding a deposit to a user or a user terminal device (400) upon returning a reusable container (300). For example, the refund processing module (112) can pay the cost of the refund when the user returns the reusable container (300). The refund processing module (112) can provide a user interface for entering refund information to the user terminal device (400) using an API provided by the payment system, and can receive refund information from the user and provide it to the payment system. Alternatively, the refund processing module (112) can provide a web page or other resource for receiving a refund to the user terminal device (400).

[0065] The alarm system module (113) can monitor and process alarms occurring in the system. The alarm system module (1130) can monitor and process processes and events occurring in the server API (101), bending machine application software (201), bending machine application firmware (202), user terminal application software (401), and administrator terminal application software (501).

[0066] The unique identification number verification module (114) can verify whether the encoded unique identification number (301) contained in the reusable container (300) is valid.

[0067] The unique identification number control module (115) can perform all tasks related to the unique identification number (301). For example, the unique identification number control module (115) can update information such as the status, setting variables, and access rights of the unique identification number.

[0068] The unique identification number database (116) can store all information related to the unique identification number (301). For example, the unique identification number database (116) can store information on the unique identification number (301), the encoding type of the unique identification number (301), the type of reusable container (300) including the unique identification number (301), the user who rented the reusable container (301), the status of the reusable container (301) (number of uses, number of washes), and the expected usage period of the reusable container (301).

[0069] The unique identification number generation module (117) can generate a new unique identification number (301) corresponding to the reusable container (300) and store it in the unique identification number database (116).

[0070] The stakeholder database (118) may store information on stakeholders (interested parties, shareholders) who wish to monitor the usage status of reusable containers (300) in the system of the present invention. Stakeholders may be, for example, a food manufacturing company, a reusable container (300) manufacturing company, a logistics company that collects and distributes reusable containers (300), a cleaning company that sterilizes and disinfects reusable containers (300), etc. The stakeholder database (118) may include advertising and marketing content for products or services provided to users.

[0071] The artificial intelligence module (119) may include a machine learning model that analyzes the physical state of the reusable container (300). When a user inserts the reusable container (300) into the return device (220), the return device (220) may transmit the type, shape, and captured image data of the reusable container (300) to the artificial intelligence module (119) via an API call. The artificial intelligence module (119) may convert the type, shape, and captured image of the reusable container (300) into numerical values ​​that can be processed by the machine learning model, input the numerical values ​​into the machine learning model, calculate the physical state of the reusable container (300), and then determine whether to approve or reject the return. In addition, the degree of washing and rinsing, disinfection, and drying may vary depending on the physical state of the reusable container (300).

[0072] The third-party service processing module (120) can provide connectivity to third-party services that require access to the server computer (100). The third-party service processing module (120) can approve or deny the exchange of data between the server computer (100) and the third-party service. The third-party service may be, for example, a reusable container (300) distribution and cleaning service, a reusable container (300) recycling service, or a payment service.

[0073] FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of bending machine application software in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] The graphical user interface processing module (701) can execute a graphical user interface displayed on a device (rental device (210) and return device (220)) included in the bending machine network (200). The graphical user interface can display a screen that guides the procedure for using the device included in the bending machine network (200) and the functions of the device.

[0075] The unique identification number decoding module (702) can decode the encoded unique identification number (301) contained in the reusable container (300) and convert it into a code or string readable by the device.

[0076] The peripheral device processing module (703) can control peripheral devices connected to devices included in the bending machine network (200). The peripheral device processing module (703) can include one or more peripheral device drivers and ports. The ports can be, for example, USB, serial ports, parallel ports, HDMI, IEEE 1394, etc. The peripheral devices can be, for example, web cameras, optical scanners, etc., but are not limited thereto, and the peripheral device processing module (703) can also control the operation of other input / output devices.

[0077] The alarm system module (704) can execute and control alarms triggered or generated within the bending machine application software (201).

[0078] The device event processing module (705) can schedule and generate programmed events. Programmed events may be, for example, software updates, maintenance due notifications, etc.

[0079] The configuration and setup module (706) can define configuration variables that control the operation of devices included in the bending machine network (200) and graphical user interfaces running on the devices. In addition, the configuration and setup module (706) can define whether a device included in the bending machine network (200) is a rental device (210) or a return device (220).

[0080] The voice and sound module (707) can play audio files that guide the user through the process of renting and returning a reusable container (300) or guide the operating steps of a device included in the vending machine network (200). The voice and sound module (707) can provide a user experience by playing audio content or warning sounds in addition to the graphical user interface displayed on the device.

[0081] The data storage module (708) can store data required for the operation of the bending machine application software (201). The data storage module (708) can include, for example, one or more random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), flash memory, solid state drive (SSD), hard disk drive, or a device capable of storing binary data.

[0082] The Internet communication module (709) can connect the devices included in the bending machine network (200) and the bending machine application software (201) to the Internet. The Internet communication module (709) can include, for example, an Ethernet, WiFi, cellular (LTE, 5G) communication modem or network interface card, or can connect to the Internet using other wired or wireless communication technologies.

[0083] The API request processing module (710) can transmit a request to the server API (101) and receive and process a response from the server API (101). The API request processing module (710) can verify whether data transmitted with an API call is configured according to a specified protocol. In addition, the API request processing module (710) can transmit a request to an API service provided by a third-party system and receive and process a response from the third-party system.

[0084] The remote control module (711) can control the bending machine application software (201) to be operated remotely via the Internet. An authorized bending machine manager can control the device remotely using the remote control module (711) without having to go to the location where the rental device (210) or return device (220) is located.

[0085] The edge computing artificial intelligence module (712) can perform a task of analyzing the physical state of the reusable container (300). The edge computing artificial intelligence module (712) can include a machine learning model. The edge computing artificial intelligence module (712) can convert the type, shape, and captured image data of the reusable container (300) into numerical values ​​that the machine learning model can process, and input the numerical values ​​into the machine learning model to calculate the physical state of the reusable container (300). Depending on the physical state of the reusable container (300), it can be determined whether to approve or reject the return, and the degree of washing, rinsing, disinfection, and drying can vary.

[0086] The franchise and business module (713) can process franchise-related tasks for the vending machine manager. The vending machine manager can grant access to devices included in the vending machine network (200) through the system operator and execute the devices to perform franchise-related procedures.

[0087] The maintenance module (714) can process and manage work contents for devices included in the bending machine network (200). For example, the maintenance module (714) can process and manage work contents such as supplying a reusable container (300) to a rental device (210), collecting a reusable container (300) from a return device (220), servicing the rental device (210) and the return device (220), or changing setting variables.

[0088] FIG. 6 is a diagram briefly showing the configuration of user terminal application software in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] The user authentication module (801) can register a new user in the user terminal application software (401) and execute a user login procedure.

[0090] The user profile module (802) can store and change user information in the user terminal application software (401).

[0091] The user settings and preference module (803) can change the preferences of the user interface displayed in the user terminal application software (401). The preferences may be, for example, font size, user interface theme, menu layout, etc.

[0092] The user payment and refund module (804) can execute payment and refund procedures. For example, the payment procedure can be executed when the user rents a reusable container (300) from a rental device (210), or the refund procedure can be executed when the user returns a reusable container (300) to a return device (220).

[0093] The transaction history module (805) can store and display transaction history and user rental and return history of reusable containers (300) through the system of the present invention. Furthermore, the transaction history module (805) can display the number of reusable containers (300) stored in the rental device (210) and the number of reusable containers (300) stored in the return device (220).

[0094] The user milestone and performance module (806) may display the user's rental and return performance. For example, the user milestone and performance module (806) may display whether the user has rented or returned a predefined threshold number of reusable containers (300) over a given period of time.

[0095] The leaderboard module (807) can display users who have achieved high performance. For example, the leaderboard module (807) can display users ranked 1st to nth who have rented a predefined number of reusable containers (300) or more.

[0096] The marketing and rewards module (808) can execute marketing and rewards tasks for users. The marketing and rewards module (808) can display advertisements and marketing content for products or services to stakeholders provided from the stakeholder database (118) of the server API (101) and to users who have reached a certain milestone.

[0097] The social engagement module (809) can promote the system of the present invention on social media. The social engagement module (809) can enable users to interact with each other, such as by checking other users' achievements and sending messages or comments. The social engagement module (809) can display usage history of the reusable container (300) and the people who have used it.

[0098] The customer support module (810) can assist users in resolving issues that arise when using the system of the present invention. The customer support module (810) may include one or more communication channels, enabling users to communicate or exchange messages with the vending machine manager via the manager terminal application software. The customer support module (810) may also provide users with the ability to submit service requests or feedback.

[0099] The unique identification number decoding module (811) can decode the encoded unique identification number (301).

[0100] The camera module (812) can control the photographing device included in the user terminal device (400). The camera module (812) can scan the encoded unique identification number (301) included in the reusable container (300), and the unique identification number decoding module (811) can decode the encoded unique identification number (301) and convert it into a code or string readable by the rental device (210) and the return device (220). Then, using the converted code or string, the information and current status of the reusable container (300) can be searched from the unique identification number database (116) of the server API (101).

[0101] The geographic location module (813) can obtain coordinate information about the current location of the user terminal device (400). The geographic location module (813) can be executed in conjunction with the customer support module (810) to assist in resolving a problem that has occurred to the user. The geographic location module (813) can display location information of rental devices (210) and return devices (220) installed close to (or within a predetermined distance from) the current location of the user terminal device (400) on a map and display the location information on the user terminal device (400). The location information can include, for example, the name of the location, an address, and distance information from the current location of the user terminal device (400) to the location of the rental devices (210) and return devices (220).

[0102] The push notification module (814) can display reminders, promotions, and messages transmitted to the user terminal device (400) related to the system of the present invention.

[0103] The data storage module (815) can execute functions for storing, sharing, editing, and deleting data used in the user terminal device (400). In addition, the data storage module (815) can store data input by the user or received from the system of the present invention and other users' terminal devices.

[0104] The communication module (816) can connect the user terminal device (400) and the user terminal application software (401) to the Internet. The communication module (816) can connect to a data communication network using, for example, Ethernet, WiFi, Bluetooth, NFC, a cellular communication modem, or a network interface card, or other wired or wireless communication technology.

[0105] The request processing module (817) can process communication requests between the user application (401) and an external device or service. The request processing module (817) can check whether the communication request complies with the data communication protocol and whether all information and authorization information required for data exchange are included.

[0106] The administrator terminal application software (501) may include the same configuration as the configuration included in the user application (401). Alternatively, the administrator terminal application software (501) may include a configuration excluding the user payment and refund module (804), transaction history module (805), user milestone and performance module (806), leaderboard module (807), marketing and reward module (808), and social engagement module (809) of the user application (401).

[0107] FIG. 7 is a drawing schematically showing the configuration of a return device in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0108] The display module (901) can display a graphical user interface provided by the bending machine application (201) and render all graphics generated by the processor and operating system.

[0109] The touch screen and input module (902) can detect tactile input from a user and a bending machine manager and process it as input. The touch screen and input module (902) can also process input via other input devices (e.g., a mouse or keyboard).

[0110] The temperature control module (903) can monitor the temperature inside the return device (220). The temperature control module (903) can include one or more temperature sensors (e.g., thermistor, thermocouple, etc.).

[0111] The inlet system (904) can control the opening and closing of the inlet when a reusable container (300) is inserted into the return device (220). The inlet system (904) can include an actuator module (910), a control board module (922), and an inlet that is opened and closed by the control board module (922). In addition, the sensor system (911) can detect whether there is an obstacle in the passage through which the reusable container (300) is inserted.

[0112] The sorting system (905) can control the location where the reusable containers (300) placed in the return device (220) are stored. The sorting system (905) can sort the reusable containers (300) so that they are stored in the correct location according to the shape of the reusable containers (300) using a powered or non-powered mechanism. The sorting system (905) can be manually operated by a user or automatically operated by including an actuator module (910), a vision system (913), and a control board module (922).

[0113] A washing and rinsing system (906) can remove contaminants present in a reusable container (300). The washing and rinsing system (906) can be operated by including one or more distilled water tanks and disinfectant tanks, a high-pressure hose, an air compressor, and a rotating brush.

[0114] The disinfection and drying system (907) can remove moisture and sterilize bacteria and viruses from a reusable container (300). The disinfection and drying system (907) can operate by including one or more disinfection lamps (e.g., ultraviolet lamps) and an induction heating drying device.

[0115] The dispatch system (908) can provide the reusable containers (300) to the user one at a time, depending on the shape of the reusable container (300), using a powered or non-powered mechanism.

[0116] The storage system (909) can store a reusable container (300) inside the return device (220).

[0117] The actuator module (910) can generate motion that occurs in the return device (220). The actuator module (910) can include one or more motion devices (e.g., a DC motor, a servo motor, a hydraulic actuator, etc.).

[0118] The sensor system (911) can detect the internal and external conditions of the return device (220). The sensor system (911) can include, for example, one or more infrared sensors, ultrasonic distance measuring sensors, piezoelectric sensors, and temperature sensors.

[0119] The unique identification number recognition system (912) can decode the encoded unique identification number (301) contained in the reusable container (300). The unique identification number recognition system (912) can decode the encoded unique identification number (301) by including, for example, one or more of a barcode scanner, a QR code scanner, an RFID reader, an NFC reader, and a camera.

[0120] The optical scanner (913) can verify the authenticity of the user and the vending machine manager by decoding the encoded identification number of the user displayed in the user terminal application software (401) and the encoded identification number of the vending machine manager displayed in the management application software (501). In addition, the optical scanner (913) can decode the encoded unique identification number (301) included in the reusable container (300). The optical scanner (913) can be, for example, one of a barcode scanner, a QR code scanner, and a multi-format code scanner.

[0121] The vision system (914) can capture an image of a reusable container (300) including a photographing device (e.g., a camera) and inspect the condition of the reusable container (300) inserted into the inlet system (904). The vision system (914) can monitor the user in real time. In addition, the vision system (914) can decode an encoded unique identification number (301) included in the reusable container (300).

[0122] The RFID reader (915) can recognize and decode RFID tags. The RFID reader (915) may include, for example, one or more standard RFID card readers and high-field RFID readers.

[0123] A credit card and debit card reader (916) can recognize and read card information to perform a payment operation for renting a reusable container (300) or a refund operation for returning the container. The credit card and debit card reader (916) can include, for example, one or more magnetic swipe card readers, multi-format magnetic stripe card readers, and contactless RFID ID chip readers.

[0124] The geographic location module (917) can obtain coordinate information about the current location of the return device (220). The geographic location module (917) can include, for example, one or more standard GPS receiver modules and GPS antennas.

[0125] The communication module (918) can connect the return device (220) to the Internet and exchange data with the server computer (100) and other devices included in the vending machine network (200), the user terminal device (400), and the administrator terminal device (500). The communication module (918) can include, for example, Ethernet, WiFi, Bluetooth, NFC, a cellular communication modem, or a network interface card.

[0126] The power supply module (919) can receive electrical energy from a power source external to the return device (220), transform it into a voltage level used in each component of the return device (220), and provide it. The power supply module (919) can include, for example, one or more AC / DC converters, DC transformers, and voltage regulators.

[0127] The off-grid power module (920) can produce electric energy by including one or more photovoltaic modules and solar panels, and can supply the produced electric energy to the power supply module (919).

[0128] The cooling and ventilation system (921) can control the temperature inside the return device (220). The cooling and ventilation system (921) can include, for example, one or more electric fans and an aluminum heat sink.

[0129] The control board module (922) can execute motion or automation tasks occurring in the temperature control module (903), the inlet system (904), the sorting system (905), the washing and rinsing system (906), the disinfection and drying system (907), the dispatch system (908), the storage system (909), the actuator module (910), the sensor system (911), the cooling and ventilation system (921), and the main board module (923). The control board module (922) can include, for example, one or more microcontroller units, a voltage regulator, and an H-bridge motor driver.

[0130] The main board module (923) can mediate the transmission of data between the control board module (922) and the central processing unit (924). The main board module (923) can include a geolocation module (917), a communication module (919), and a power supply module (919). In addition, the main board module (923) can execute the bending machine application firmware (202). The main board module (923) can include, for example, one or more microcontrollers, a voltage regulator, a USB port, a Bluetooth module, and a UART port.

[0131] The central processing unit (924) includes a display module (901), a touch screen and input module (902), a unique identification number recognition system (912), an optical scanner (913), a vision system (914), an RFID reader (915), a credit and debit card reader (916), and a main board module (923), and can control these configurations and devices connected to the configurations. The central processing unit (924) can execute bending machine application software (201).

[0132] The rental device (210) may each include the same configuration as that included in the return device (220). For example, the rental device (210) may include a configuration excluding the washing and rinsing system (906) and the disinfection and drying system (907), and may include an outlet system for discharging a reusable container (300) other than the inlet system (904).

[0133] FIG. 8 is a diagram briefly showing the operating state of the bending machine application software in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0134] The vending machine application software (201) may include a public access state and a private access state, and an authentication layer positioned between the public access state and the private access state. When a user and a vending machine administrator need to obtain the necessary authorization to access the private access state from the public access state, the authentication layer may provide a verification procedure for the user and the vending machine administrator.

[0135] Public access status may include, for example, default status, usage status, customer service status, and warning status.

[0136] Private access status may include, for example, store staff status, setup and configuration status, maintenance status, reusable container supply status, and reusable container collection status.

[0137] After the vending machine application software (201) is started and initialized to a default state, the rental device (210) and the return device (220) can display screens in the default state. In the default state, the rental device (210) and the return device (220) can display advertising and marketing content remotely provided from the data storage module (708) of the vending machine application software (201) or the server API (101) of the stakeholder database (118).

[0138] When a user selects a menu to rent or return a reusable container (300), the bending machine application software (201) can be changed from a default state to a use state.

[0139] When a user requests technical support for using the rental device (210) and return device (220), the bending machine application software (201) may be switched to a customer service state. In the customer service state, the user may be provided with guidance and technical support to rent or return a reusable container (300) from the rental device (210) and return device (220) without any problems. If guidance and technical support are not provided, or if a problem occurs during the rental and return process of the reusable container (300), or if the bending machine application software (201), rental device (210), or return device (220) does not operate or an error occurs, the bending machine application software (201) may be switched to a warning state.

[0140] When a user is authenticated as a store employee, the vending machine application software (201) can change to store employee status. In store employee status, the user can perform customer support tasks.

[0141] When a user is authenticated as a bending machine administrator, the bending machine application software (201) can be changed to a configuration and setup state. In the configuration and setup state, the user can perform system updates, error corrections, maintenance, adjustment of setup variables, configuration of the rental device (210) and return device (220), and all types of tasks and operations on the device.

[0142] When a user is authenticated as a logistics operator, the vending machine application software (201) may be changed to a maintenance state. In the maintenance state, the user may perform tasks related to supplying and collecting reusable containers (300). When the number of reusable containers (300) stored in the rental device (210) is insufficient (or when the number of reusable containers (300) is less than or equal to a predetermined number), the vending machine application software (201) may be changed to a reusable container supply state. When the maximum number of reusable containers (300) that can be stored in the return device (220) is stored (or when the number of reusable containers (300) stored is greater than or equal to a predetermined number), the vending machine application software (201) may be changed to a reusable container collection state.

[0143] FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically illustrating the operation sequence of the bending machine application software when renting a reusable container in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0144] The operation described in relation to FIG. 9 may be performed by the bending machine application software (201) on the rental device (210).

[0145] After starting the rental device (210) and the bending machine application software (201), the bending machine application software (201) can check for errors. If an error occurs, an error screen can be displayed on the display module (901). If no error occurs, a default screen can be displayed on the display module (901). Advertisements and marketing content provided from the data storage module (708) of the bending machine application software (201) or the stakeholder database (118) of the server API (101) can be displayed on the default screen.

[0146] When the user selects the exit menu on the main screen, a dialog box asking for confirmation of exit can be displayed, and the rental process can be terminated when the user enters confirmation.

[0147] When a user starts a rental process, information on reusable containers (300) that can be rented can be displayed on the display module (901).

[0148] Then, if the user selects the cancel menu or a predetermined amount of time has elapsed, the display module (901) may display the main screen again. Otherwise, if the user selects a reusable container (300) to be rented or selects the proceed menu, the outlet system of the rental device (210) may be controlled to open the outlet. At this time, the display module (901) may display the status of the outlet being opened.

[0149] Then, the encoded unique identification number (301) of the reusable container (300) to be discharged can be scanned (or recognized) and a removal instruction screen can be displayed to take the reusable container (300) to be used on the display module (901).

[0150] After the reusable container (300) is discharged, the vending machine application software (201) can call the server API (101) to register the encoded unique identification number (301) of the just rented reusable container (300) in the transaction history database (104).

[0151] If the scan of the encoded unique identification number (301) of the reusable container (300) to be discharged fails, a dialog box notifying the failure may be displayed on the display module (901) and then the discharge instruction screen may be displayed again. Otherwise, if the scan is successful, the server API (101) may be called to register the type and quantity of the reusable container (300) issued to the user in the transaction history database (104). Then, the quantity of the rented reusable container (300) may be increased by one, and the discharge instruction screen may be displayed again on the display module (901).

[0152] Next, if the user selects the payment menu, the number of scanned reusable containers (300) and the number of discharged reusable containers (300) can be compared to see if they are the same. If the numbers are not the same, a dialog box notifying the user of the number mismatch can be displayed on the display module (901), a confirmation input can be received from the user, and the removal instruction screen can be displayed again. If the numbers are the same or the user selects the proceed menu, the server API (101) can be called, and the payment processing module (111) can receive and process the deposit payment information.

[0153] If payment fails or the user selects the cancel menu, the withdrawal instruction screen can be re-displayed on the display module (901). If payment fails, a dialog box informing of the failure can be displayed on the display module (901), a confirmation input can be received from the user, and then the withdrawal instruction screen can be re-displayed.

[0154] If payment is successful, the server API (101) is called to store transaction details and payment information in the transaction details database (104), display a payment completion screen on the display module (901), and control the outlet system to close the outlet. The default screen can then be displayed again on the display module (901).

[0155] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating the operation sequence of the bending machine application software when returning a reusable container in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0156] The operation described in connection with FIG. 10 may be performed by the bending machine application software (201) in the return device (220).

[0157] After the return device (220) and the bending machine application software (201) are started, the bending machine application software (201) can check for errors. If an error occurs, an error screen can be displayed on the display module (901). If no error occurs, a default screen can be displayed on the display module (901). Advertisements and marketing content provided from the data storage module (708) of the bending machine application software (201) or the stakeholder database (118) of the server API (101) can be displayed on the default screen.

[0158] When the user selects the exit menu on the main screen, a dialog box asking for confirmation of exit can be displayed, and the return process can be terminated when the user confirms the exit.

[0159] When a user starts the rental process, a return information screen can be displayed on the display module (901).

[0160] Then, if the user selects the cancel menu or a predetermined amount of time has elapsed, the display module (901) can display the main screen again. Otherwise, if the user selects the proceed menu, the input slot system (904) of the return device (220) can be controlled to open the input slot. At this time, the display module (901) can display the status of the input slot being opened.

[0161] After the inlet is opened, an instruction screen for inserting a reusable container (300) to be returned to the display module (901) may be displayed.

[0162] After the reusable container (300) is inserted, the bending machine application software (201) may call the server API (101) to request the unique identification number verification module (114) to verify the unique identification number (301) included in the reusable container (300). In addition, the artificial intelligence module (119) may be requested to inspect the physical state of the inserted reusable container (300). Without calling the server API (101), the edge computing artificial intelligence module (712) included in the bending machine application software (201) may also inspect the physical state of the inserted reusable container (300).

[0163] Then, if it is not an approved reusable container (300), a dialog box indicating a failure can be displayed on the display module (901), and then the insertion instruction screen can be displayed again. Otherwise, if it is an approved reusable container (300), the type and quantity of the inserted reusable container (300) can be registered in the transaction history database (104) by calling the server API (101). Then, the quantity of returned reusable containers (300) can be increased by one, and the insertion instruction screen can be displayed again on the display module (901).

[0164] If the user then selects the refund menu, the deposit refund information can be entered. If the entered refund information is incorrect, the user can be asked to re-enter the information. If the user selects the cancel menu without entering the refund information, the deposit instructions screen can be displayed again.

[0165] If the refund information is correct, the vending machine application software (201) can call the server API (101) and cause the refund processing module (112) to receive and process the refund information.

[0166] If the refund fails or the user selects the cancel menu, the input instruction screen can be re-displayed on the display module (901). If the refund fails, a dialog box informing the user of the failure can be displayed on the display module (901), a confirmation input can be received from the user, and the input instruction screen can be re-displayed.

[0167] If the refund is successful, the server API (101) is called to store the refund information in the transaction history database (104), a refund completion screen is displayed on the display module (901), and the slot system (904) is controlled to close the slot. The default screen can then be displayed again on the display module (901).

[0168] The method according to the present invention described above can be produced as a program to be executed on a computer and stored in a computer-readable recording medium. Examples of the computer-readable recording medium include ROM, RAM, CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, optical data storage device, etc.

[0169] Computer-readable recording media can be distributed across network-connected computer systems, allowing computer-readable code to be stored and executed in a distributed manner. Furthermore, functional programs, codes, and code segments for implementing the above method can be readily inferred by programmers skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains.

[0170] In addition, although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described above, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains without departing from the gist of the present invention claimed in the claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical idea or prospect of the present invention.

[0171]

[0172] * Explanation of symbols

[0173] 100: Server computer

[0174] 200: Bending Machine Network

[0175] 201: Bending Machine Application Software

[0176] 202: Bending Machine Application Firmware

[0177] 210: Rental device

[0178] 220: Return device

[0179] 300: Reusable container

[0180] 301: Encoded Unique Identification Number

[0181] 400: User terminal device

[0182] 401: User terminal application software

[0183] 500: Administrator terminal device

[0184] 501: Administrator Terminal Application Software

Claims

1. A rental step in which the rental device discharges a reusable container, recognizes the encoded unique identification number of the reusable container to be discharged, and stores the rental information of the reusable container in the server computer; and A return step including: inserting a reusable container into a return device, recognizing an encoded unique identification number of the inserted reusable container, and storing return information of the reusable container in a server computer; How to automatically rent and return reusable containers.

2. In claim 1, At the above rental stage, The rental device calls the server API provided by the server computer to store the rental information of the reusable container on the server computer. How to automatically rent and return reusable containers.

3. In claim 1, At the above return stage, The return device calls the server API provided by the server computer to store the return information of the reusable container on the server computer. How to automatically rent and return reusable containers.

4. In claim 1, The encoded unique identification number contained in the reusable container is: Any one of barcode, QR code, RFID tag, NFC tag, or digital watermark How to automatically rent and return reusable containers.

5. In claim 1, A reusable container is any of the following: a box, bag, cup, plate, bottle, cylinder, tray, or container that contains a product and can be used more than twice. How to automatically rent and return reusable containers.

6. In claim 1, At the above rental stage, Compare the number of reusable containers discharged by the rental device with the number of reusable containers recognized, and if they are the same, proceed with the deposit payment procedure. How to automatically rent and return reusable containers.

7. In claim 1, At the above return stage, When the user enters the refund information into the return device, the return device responds to the refund information and refunds the deposit. How to automatically rent and return reusable containers.

8. In claim 1, At the above return stage, The return device calls the server API, and the AI ​​module of the server computer inputs the type, shape, and captured image data of the reusable container into the machine learning model to calculate the physical state. How to automatically rent and return reusable containers.

9. In claim 1, Provides location information of rental and return devices installed within a predetermined distance from where the user terminal device is located to the user terminal device. How to automatically rent and return reusable containers.

10. In claim 1, Once the user is authenticated, the vending machine application software running on the rental or return device changes from public access to private access. How to automatically rent and return reusable containers.

11. A rental device that discharges a reusable container and recognizes the encoded unique identification number of the reusable container to be discharged; A return device into which a reusable container is inserted and which recognizes the encoded unique identification number of the inserted reusable container; and A server computer storing rental information including an encoded unique identification number of a reusable container to be discharged and return information including an encoded unique identification number of a reusable container that has been inserted; Automated reusable container rental and return system.

12. In claim 11, The above rental device, Compare the number of reusable containers discharged and the number of reusable containers recognized to see if they are the same, and if so, proceed with the deposit payment procedure. Automated reusable container rental and return system.

13. In claim 11, The above return device is, Verifies the encoded unique identification number of the reusable container being inserted. Automated reusable container rental and return system.

14. In claim 11, The above server computer includes an artificial intelligence module having a machine learning model, The above return device inputs the type, shape, and captured image data of the reusable container transmitted through the API call into the machine learning model to calculate the physical state. Automated reusable container rental and return system.

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