Tray device, electronic device controlling tray device, and control method therefor

Abstract

Provided is an electronic device controlling a tray device. The electronic device may, when order information is input, control the tray device to heat or cool a support part on which an article is to be placed according to the characteristics of the article corresponding to the order information, and store information on the article and the support part on which the article is placed. Thereafter, when new order information is input, the electronic device may identify, on the basis of information stored in a memory, at least one support part corresponding to the characteristics of an article corresponding to the new order information, and control the tray device to place the article on the identified at least one support part.

Description

Tray device, electronic device for controlling the tray device, and method for controlling the same

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a tray device, an electronic device for controlling the tray device, and a method for controlling the same.

[0002] Thanks to advancements in robotics technology, the number of unmanned stores is increasing. One example is an unmanned cafe that sells beverages. In such cafes, various types of drinks are placed on a tray according to the customer's order, and the customer may have to pick up the specific drink they ordered themselves.

[0003] In such a system, when there are multiple customers, several beverages may be placed on a single tray at once. Customers must identify and pick up the beverage they ordered, but there was a problem in that it was difficult to easily determine which drink belonged to them when the beverages were similar in color.

[0004] In addition, if the customer does not pick up the order immediately, the beverage may be left on the tray for a certain period of time. In this case, there was also a problem in that it is difficult to maintain the beverage's temperature properly.

[0005] An electronic device for controlling the operation of a tray device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, comprising a plurality of support members for supporting an article and a plurality of thermoelectric elements for heating or cooling each of the plurality of support members, comprises an interface, a communication unit for communicating with the tray device, a memory, and a processor. The processor controls the tray device to heat or cool the support member on which the article is placed according to the characteristics of the article corresponding to the order information when order information is input through the interface, and stores information regarding the article and the support member on which the article is placed in the memory. When new order information is input through the interface, the processor identifies at least one support member corresponding to the characteristics of the article corresponding to the new order information based on the information stored in the memory, and controls the tray device to place the article on the identified at least one support member.

[0006] A tray device for supporting an article according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a communication unit, a power supply unit, a processor, a tray having a plurality of support members capable of supporting the article, and thermoelectric elements arranged for each of the plurality of support members. When a control signal from an external device is received through the communication unit, the processor controls the power supply unit to apply an electric signal to at least one thermoelectric element provided in each of the plurality of support members according to the control signal, thereby individually cooling or heating the plurality of support members.

[0007] A method for controlling the operation of an electronic device comprising a plurality of support members for supporting an article according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure and a plurality of thermoelectric elements for heating or cooling each of the plurality of support members, the method may include: a step of controlling the tray device to heat or cool the support member on which the article is to be placed according to the characteristics of the article corresponding to the order information when order information is input; a step of storing information regarding the article and the support member on which the article is placed; a step of identifying at least one support member corresponding to the characteristics of the article corresponding to the new order information based on the stored information when new order information is input; and a step of controlling the tray device to place the article on the identified at least one support member.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining the configuration and operation of a product supply system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIGS. 2a and 2b are schematic drawings illustrating the configuration of a tray device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a tray device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 4 is a plan view illustrating the configuration of a tray device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a tray device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIGS. 6 and 7 are operational state diagrams schematically illustrating the configuration of a tray device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a tray device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a tray device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a tray device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a tray device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a tray device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a tray device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a tray device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a tray device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a tray device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a tray device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating, by way of example, a thermoelectric element among the configurations of a tray device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 19 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an electronic device that controls the operation of a tray device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 20 is a flowchart sequentially illustrating `3` according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] The embodiments described in this specification may be modified in various ways. Specific embodiments may be depicted in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. However, specific embodiments disclosed in the accompanying drawings are intended only to facilitate understanding of various embodiments. Accordingly, the technical concept is not limited by specific embodiments disclosed in the accompanying drawings, and it should be understood that it includes all equivalents or substitutions that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0028] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but these components are not limited by the aforementioned terms. The aforementioned terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. In this specification, terms such as "comprising" or "having" are intended to indicate the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not precluding the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0029] When it is stated that one component is "connected" or "joined" to another component, it should be understood that while it may be directly connected or joined to that other component, there may also be other components in between.

[0030] On the other hand, when it is stated that one component is "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0031] In this disclosure, the expression "identical" means not only complete agreement but also includes differences that account for a range of processing errors. Furthermore, in describing this disclosure, if it is determined that a detailed description of related known functions or configurations could unnecessarily obscure the essence of this disclosure, such detailed description is abbreviated or omitted.

[0032] The concept of the article (10) handled in the present disclosure may include containers, food, and other items that may be provided in a cooled state or a heated state. That is, it may include food intended for consumption with added thermal characteristics (e.g., beverages, meat, rice, bread, etc.). In addition, even if not intended for consumption, it may include means for functional use through the imparting of thermal characteristics (e.g., temperature-maintaining containers, hot packs, cooling packs, etc.). For example, the concept of the article (10) handled in the present disclosure may include objects that need to be maintained in a heated state or need to be maintained in a cooled state.

[0033] Furthermore, the concept of articles handled in this disclosure may include items for which it is necessary to distinguish between cooling or heating states based on thermal characteristics. The distinction herein may include identifying the temperature for a single or multiple items. In addition, the concept of articles may include items that can be appropriately arranged and provided on a tray. The tray according to this disclosure may be applied in small, medium, and large sizes, respectively. The aforementioned articles accommodated in such a tray of this disclosure may be provided in a size corresponding to the tray. For convenience of explanation, the articles according to this disclosure will be described below assuming they are containers for holding beverages.

[0034] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining the configuration and operation of a product supply system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b are drawings schematically illustrating the configuration of a tray device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Referring to FIG. 1, the product supply system includes an electronic device (100), a robot arm (5) for manufacturing or supplying products, a tray device (200) for delivering products (10) to a customer (15) with the products placed on a tray (210), and an electronic device (100) for controlling the operation of the tray device (200).

[0036] In the present disclosure, the article (10) may be a beverage, food, and various other products, but the following description is limited to the case of a beverage.

[0037] The electronic device (100) can be implemented as various types of devices, such as a Point of Sale (PoS) device for receiving orders from a customer (15), a smartphone, a tablet PC, a PC, a kiosk, or a server device. When order information for ordering goods is entered into the electronic device (100), it can transmit control signals accordingly to the robot arm (5) and the tray device (200), respectively. The robot arm (5) can pick up the ordered goods based on the order information and place them on the tray (210).

[0038] When an item is placed on the tray (210), the tray device (200) provides it to the orderer (15). If the item is a beverage, the robot arm (5) may directly manufacture the beverage, or a separate manufacturing device may be additionally provided. For example, the manufacturing device may be a coffee machine. If it is a cold beverage containing ice, the robot arm (5) may directly manufacture it by putting ice made in an ice-making facility into a container and then pouring the beverage into the container. Since the types and configurations of manufacturing devices are known to vary depending on the type of item, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0039] In FIG. 1, the electronic device (100) and the tray device (200) are depicted as separate devices distinct from each other, but the tray device (200) and the electronic device (100) may be implemented in an integrated form. Additionally, the tray device (200), the robot arm (5), the manufacturing device, etc. may all be implemented in an integrated form.

[0040] In FIG. 1, the area where the robot arm (5) is located and the area where the orderer (15) is located can be distinguished from each other based on the main body (205) of the tray device (200). If the item (10) is a beverage or food, the area for manufacturing the item needs to be isolated from the outside for hygiene purposes. For example, if the system of FIG. 1 is applied to an unmanned cafe, the manufacturing area and the orderer area can be separated by a wall. The tray device (200) can slide the tray (210) toward the orderer area side by passing through the main body (205) with the item supplied from the manufacturing area placed on the tray (210). The orderer can pick up their item on the tray (210).

[0041] FIG. 2a is a block diagram showing the configuration of a tray device (200) according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. According to FIG. 2a, the tray device (200) includes a tray (210), a power supply unit (260), and a processor (250). Within the tray (210), a plurality of support members (220-1 to 220-n) and a plurality of temperature control modules (230-1 to 230-n) are included.

[0042] A plurality of support members (220-1 to 220-n) are configured to support an article. In the present disclosure, supporting an article may mean that the article is placed on top of the support member. The shape of the plurality of support members (220-1 to 220-n) may be varied according to the embodiment. This will be explained in detail in the following section.

[0043] A plurality of temperature control modules (230-1 to 230-n) are arranged for each support member and configured to heat or cool each support member. The plurality of temperature control modules (230-1 to 230-n) may be implemented in a form including thermoelectric elements, but are not necessarily limited thereto; a heating device that heats using a coil, a cooling device that cools using a heat exchanger, etc. may be used. When implemented with thermoelectric elements, one temperature control module (230-1 to 230-n) may each include at least one first thermoelectric element for heating and at least one second thermoelectric element for cooling. In this case, heating and cooling operations can be selectively performed by switching the type of thermoelectric element driven for the same support member.

[0044] The power supply unit (260) is configured to provide power to each component of the tray device (200). When an external AC current is input, the power supply unit (260) can convert it into a constant voltage of a size required for the operation of each component and provide it to each component. For example, if a situation arises where the tray (210) needs to be slid, the power supply unit (260) applies an electrical signal to an actuator (not shown) connected to the tray (210) under the control of the processor (250). Accordingly, the actuator is driven so that the tray (210) can be slid toward the orderer area or the manufacturing area. For sliding, a rail may be formed on the side of the passage through which the tray (210) passes inside the main body of the tray device (200). The tray (210) can slide along the rail.

[0045] The processor (250) can control an actuator to protrude the tray to the outside of the main body when an item is placed on at least one of the multiple support members while the tray (210) is located inside the main body (205) of the tray device. The state of being located inside the main body may be a state in which the tray is accommodated in the internal space of the main body (205), or a state in which it is protruded toward the manufacturing area side relative to the main body. Additionally, the outside of the main body refers to the orderer area side where the orderer is located. In cases where multiple items are ordered and supplied at nearly the same time, the tray may be moved after all multiple items have been placed on the multiple support members. The processor (250) can control an actuator to move the tray back inside the main body when all items placed on the tray are picked up.

[0046] Additionally, the power supply unit (260) applies an electric signal to at least one of the plurality of temperature control modules (230-1 to 230-n) to heat or cool it according to the control of the processor (250). As described above, if the temperature control modules (230-1 to 230-n) include first and second thermoelectric elements of different types, the power supply unit (260) may apply an electric signal to the second thermoelectric element when it needs to be cooled, and apply an electric signal to the first thermoelectric element when it needs to be hot.

[0047] The processor (250) is configured to control the operation of the tray device (200). Although not shown in FIG. 2a, the tray device (200) may include a memory in which programs, data, instructions, etc. are stored. This memory may be formed integrally with the processor (250) or may be provided separately.

[0048] The processor (250) can perform various operations based on instructions, programs, data, etc. stored in memory. The processor (250) can be implemented as a digital signal processor (DSP) that processes digital signals or a microprocessor. However, it is not limited thereto, and may include or be defined by one or more of a central processing unit (CPU), a Micro Controller Unit (MCU), a Micro Processing Unit (MPU), a controller, an application processor (AP), a communication processor (CP), an ARM processor, or an Artificial Intelligence (AI) processor. Additionally, the processor (250) may be implemented as a System on Chip (SoC) or Large Scale Integration (LSI) with a built-in processing algorithm, or may be implemented in the form of a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA).

[0049] Specifically, the processor (250) can control the power supply unit (260) to apply an electrical signal to a temperature control module corresponding to a support unit on which an item is to be placed among a plurality of support units (220-1 to 220-n), thereby cooling or heating the support unit to match the characteristics of the item. The characteristics of the item may be information indicating whether it is a cold beverage or a hot beverage. That is, when a cold beverage needs to be supplied, the processor (250) controls the power supply unit (260) to cool the support unit on which the beverage is to be placed, and when a hot beverage needs to be supplied, the power supply unit (260) controls the support unit on which the beverage is to be placed to heat.

[0050] In addition, the tray (210) may be further provided with a light-emitting module, a temperature sensor, a weight sensing sensor, etc., positioned at a location corresponding to each support member. FIG. 2b is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of a tray device according to these various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 2b, the tray device (200) may include a temperature control module (230), a communication unit (240), a processor (250), a power supply unit (260), a light-emitting module (270), a temperature sensor (280), and a weight sensing sensor (290).

[0051] Among the configurations of FIG. 2b, the description of the same part as the configuration described in FIG. 2a is omitted.

[0052] A temperature control module (230) is positioned within the tray (210) at a location corresponding to each support member. Each temperature control module (230) may be implemented as a thermoelectric element. In this case, each temperature control module (230-1 to 230-n) may include a first thermoelectric element and a second thermoelectric element of different polarities so that cooling or heating can be performed in a single temperature control module (230).

[0053] The light-emitting module (270) is configured to be arranged for each support member within the tray (210). Each light-emitting module (270) may include a first light-emitting element (271) and a second light-emitting element (272) of different colors.

[0054] When an item is placed on one of the multiple support members, the processor (250) can control the light-emitting module placed on the support member on which the item is placed to emit light in a color corresponding to the temperature of the item. If the first light-emitting element is intended to emit red color and the second light-emitting element is intended to emit blue color, the processor (250) can control the light-emitting module (270) to turn on the second light-emitting element to display blue color for the support member on which a cold beverage is placed, and to turn off the second light-emitting element and turn on the first light-emitting element to display red color when a hot beverage is placed on the same support member. The orderer (15) can predict the temperature of the beverage placed on the support member by visually identifying the color.

[0055] The processor (250) may determine whether to emit light from any light-emitting element based on the temperature of the item. For example, the processor (250) may control the light-emitting module to emit red color if the temperature of the item is above a preset first reference temperature. On the other hand, if the temperature of the item is below a second reference temperature which is lower than the first reference temperature, the processor (250) may control the light-emitting module to emit blue color. In the case of a temperature between the first and second reference temperatures, the processor (250) may control the light-emitting module to turn on or turn off both the first and second light-emitting elements.

[0056] The temperature of the item may be directly sensed using a temperature sensor (280) in the tray device (200). The temperature sensor (280) may be a plurality of temperature sensors provided for each of the plurality of support members. The processor (250) may control the power supply unit to heat at least one support member if the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor placed on at least one of the plurality of support members is greater than or equal to a first reference temperature, and may control the power supply unit to cool at least one support member if the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor placed on at least one support member is less than or equal to a second reference temperature. Additionally, the color of the light-emitting module may be changed based on the temperature as described above.

[0057] Meanwhile, the processor (250) can control the light-emitting module to maintain the color that was displayed even after the beverage is picked up. If the beverage is prepared by a person, the person preparing the beverage can visually check the color of the support currently displayed and, if it matches the beverage they made, place the beverage on that support. For example, if a hot support already exists and the beverage they newly made is a hot beverage, they can place the beverage on that support instead of another support to serve it to the customer. When implemented in this way, the temperature of the support can be efficiently maintained without frequently performing cooling and heating operations.

[0058] Meanwhile, the light-emitting module does not necessarily have to include both the first and second light-emitting elements, and a first light-emitting module including a first light-emitting element (271) and a second light-emitting module including a second light-emitting element (272) may be provided individually and placed on different support members. In this case, the entire support member may be divided into a support member for providing cold beverages and a support member for providing hot beverages and used in a fixed manner.

[0059] The weight sensing sensor (290) is a sensor for detecting the weight of an item placed on a tray. The processor (250) can identify whether an item is placed or picked up based on the sensing value of the weight sensing sensor (290). For example, if the sensing value of the weight sensing sensor (290) when nothing is placed is stored as a reference value, the processor (250) can identify that at least one item is placed on the tray if a weight greater than a certain amount than the reference value is detected. On the other hand, if it is identified that the weight is equal to or has a difference of a similar range level to the reference value, it can identify that all items have been picked up. Accordingly, the processor (250) can determine whether to operate the actuator.

[0060] The communication unit (240) is configured to perform communication with an external device. As shown in FIG. 1, if an electronic device (100) exists separately from the tray device (200), the communication unit (240) can receive various control signals from the electronic device (100).

[0061] The processor (250) can perform various control operations based on the received control signal. Specifically, when a control signal is received to heat a specific support among a plurality of support members and to emit a red color, the processor (250) controls the temperature control module (230) and the light-emitting module (270) based on the control signal. In addition, various operations described in the above-described section may also be performed based on the control signal of the electronic device (100).

[0062] The support member (220) of the tray device may be formed as a cylindrical structure. The support member (220) may be provided in various numbers depending on the size of the tray (210). If multiple items need to be provided simultaneously, multiple support members may be provided to each support multiple items on a single tray (210). In addition, the support member (220) may be provided in a uniform arrangement or in a non-uniform arrangement on the tray (210). As described above, the support member may be implemented in various forms.

[0063] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a tray device (200) according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a plan view illustrating the configuration of a tray device (200) according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] In FIGS. 3 and 4, each of the plurality of support members (220-1 to 220-n) may be provided in a cylindrical shape, such as having an opening formed on the upper surface, and having a hollow interior that protrudes from the tray (210). A space capable of supporting an article (10) is formed within the upper surface opening of each support member. The article can be inserted into the opening and placed in the space. FIG. 3 illustrates a state in which an article (10) is placed on the second support member (220-2).

[0065] The temperature control module (230-1 to 230-n) may include a first and a second thermoelectric element. Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, at least one first thermoelectric element (230-1) may be provided on the inner surface of the support member (220-1). A processor (250) may control the first thermoelectric element (230-1) to heat the inner surface of the support member (220). At least one second thermoelectric element (230-2) may also be provided on the inner surface of the support member (220-1). A processor (250) may control the second thermoelectric element (230-2) to cool the inner surface of the support member (220). The first thermoelectric element (230-1) and the second thermoelectric element (230-2) may be distributed and arranged on the support member (220-1).

[0066] Additionally, according to FIGS. 3 and 4, the first light-emitting element (271) and the second light-emitting element (272) of the light-emitting module (270) may be formed on the outer circumference of the support member (220). However, this is not limited thereto, and each light-emitting element of the light-emitting module may be placed in the peripheral edge area of ​​the cylindrical support member (220) or the edge area of ​​the opening.

[0067] FIG. 5 illustrates a case where the first light-emitting element (271) and the second light-emitting element (272) are not provided on the support portion (220) of the tray device (200), but are provided on the surrounding edge area of ​​the support portion (220), that is, on the upper surface of the tray (210). That is, the first light-emitting element (271) and the second light-emitting element (272) may be provided in a flat type on the same plane as the tray (210). However, this is not limited thereto, and the first light-emitting element (271) and the second light-emitting element (272) may be formed in a shape that surrounds the outer surface of the support portion (220) at a height spaced apart from the tray (210) by a certain distance or more. The light-emitting module (270) of the tray device (200) may output a plurality of different colors so that the temperature of the article (10) can be identified. More specifically, at least one first light-emitting element (271) of the light-emitting module (270) may be provided to emit, for example, a red color. At least one second light-emitting element (272) of the light-emitting module (270) may be provided to emit, for example, a blue color. The processor (250) may compare the temperature of the article (10) with a first reference temperature or a second reference temperature and control the light-emitting module (270) to emit a red color or a blue color according to the result of the comparison.

[0068] Additionally, the processor (250) can control the light-emitting module (270) to continue emitting the same color for a certain period of time or longer even after the item (10) placed on at least one support member (220) is picked up. Afterward, it can guide the position to be placed for a new item (10) of similar temperature on the tray (210). In this disclosure, a new item refers to an item that has been newly ordered. If a new item is not ordered until a certain period of time has elapsed, the processor (250) can stop the color emission and temperature control operations to prevent power waste.

[0069] As described above, the temperature sensor (280) of the tray device (200) may also be provided for each of the multiple support members (220). The temperature sensor (280) may be placed in the lower part of the space inside the support member (220), but is not limited thereto, and may be placed in a position that is in direct contact with or adjacent to the article (10). When the temperature sensor (280) is provided, the tray device (200) may perform cooling or heating operations on its own based on the sensing result of the temperature sensor (280) even without control by an external electronic device (100).

[0070] Meanwhile, the support member may be implemented in a form that is recessed downward. It goes without saying that it may also be located there. We will describe these details in more detail later on.

[0071] Meanwhile, a weight sensing sensor (290) may be provided on each support member of the tray (210). FIG. 4 illustrates a state in which a weight sensing sensor (290) is provided on the lower side of each support member. Referring to FIG. 4, at least one weight sensing sensor (290) of the tray device (200) may be provided for each of the multiple support members (220). The processor (250) can identify whether an item (10) is placed on the multiple support members (220) based on the sensing value of the weight sensing sensor (290). Based on this identification, the processor (250) can control an actuator on the tray device (200) to protrude the tray (210) to the outside of the main body if the total number of items (10) placed on the multiple support members (220) matches the order information. Matching the order information may mean that all ordered items are loaded.

[0072] FIGS. 6 and 7 are operational state diagrams schematically illustrating the configuration of a tray device (200) according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the tray device (200) can move a tray (210) between one side (A) and the other side (B) with respect to the main body. Here, the one side (A) may be the manufacturing area described above, and the other side (B) may be the orderer area where the orderer is located. The processor (250) basically maintains the tray (210) on the one side (A), and when an order is received, controls the robot arm (5) to manufacture the ordered item and place it on a specific support on the tray (210). The specific support may be a support that is maintained in a heated or cooled state to have the same temperature characteristics as the ordered item, or a support that is newly heated or cooled.

[0073] If the number of supports that have already been heated or cooled among the multiple supports is different from the number of newly ordered items, the processor (250) can cool the supports that were previously heated or heat the supports that were cooled to readjust to the current items.

[0074] When all items are loaded into the tray (210) in this manner, the processor (250) can control the actuator to move the tray (210) loaded with items (10), and can control the actuator to retrieve the tray (210) again when all items are picked up by the orderers.

[0075] Of course, such an actuator can be provided inside the main body, as well as outside the main body to enable the position of the tray (210).

[0076] Meanwhile, in FIGS. 6 and 7, such a tray (210) is depicted as having a first-stage structure on the main body. However, the tray (210) on the main body may be provided with a plurality of n-stage structures that overlap above the first stage. In this case, the size and height of the space through which the tray (210) passes within the main body may be increased. When using a tray with a plurality of n-stage structures, the upper tray may be protruded toward the orderer area after all items on the lower tray have been picked up, so that orderers can easily pick up items from the lower tray.

[0077] FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a tray device (200) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 8, the depth at which an article (10) is received in each support member (220) on the tray (210) can be varied. For example, the article (10) enters and is placed inside the support member (220). However, if thermoelectric elements (230-1 to 230-m) are formed protruding from inside the support member (220), the article may enter and be placed up to the middle section without reaching the bottom surface of the support member (220). In this case, the temperature sensor (280) may be provided in a form that protrudes from the inner bottom surface of the support member (220) to contact the lower part of the article (10) and simultaneously supports the lower part of the article (10). In addition, the first thermoelectric element (230-1) to the m-th thermoelectric element (230) among the thermoelectric elements (230) may be formed to correspond to the shape of the article (10). For example, if the shape of the article (10) is tapered from top to bottom, the first thermoelectric element (230-1) to the m-th thermoelectric element (230) may also be tapered in a corresponding shape. Through this, the article (10) mounted on the support member (220) can be positioned more stably in the correct position during the process of entering the support member (220).

[0078] FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a tray device (200) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 9, the depth at which an article (10) is received in each support member (220) on the tray (210) may differ from that of FIG. 8. For example, the article (10) may be positioned in the lower part of the support member (220) without leaving any empty space. Accordingly, the contact area between the first thermoelectric element (230-1) to the m-th thermoelectric element (230) and the outer surface of the article (10) can be expanded. Accordingly, the article (10) can reach the set temperature more quickly and the set temperature can be maintained continuously.

[0079] FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a tray device (200) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 10, a support member (220) is provided on a tray (210), and an article (10) can be placed inside the support member (220) and reach the bottom surface. It can be positioned without leaving any empty space. A plurality of light-emitting modules (270) may be provided spaced apart from each other on the outer circumference of the support member (220). For example, a first light-emitting module (2701) may be provided at the bottom, and a second light-emitting module (2702) may be provided on the upper side above the first light-emitting module (2701). Additionally, a third light-emitting module (2703) may be provided on the upper side of the second light-emitting module (2702). The tray device (200) processor (250) can enable more detailed identification of the first light-emitting module (2701) to the third light-emitting module (2703) based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor (280). Specifically, the aforementioned first temperature standard can be subdivided into a first_1 temperature standard, a first_2 temperature standard, and a first_3 temperature standard. If it corresponds to the first_1 temperature standard, the red color is output only by the first light-emitting module (2701), and if it corresponds to the first_2 temperature standard, the red color is output by both the first light-emitting module (2701) and the third light-emitting module (2703).

[0080] In addition, if it corresponds to the 1_3 criterion, the first light-emitting module (2701), the second light-emitting module (2702), and the third light-emitting module (2703) can all be output in red color. Similarly, based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor (280), the processor can subdivide the aforementioned second temperature criterion into a 2_1 temperature criterion, a 2_2 temperature criterion, and a 2_3 temperature criterion. If it corresponds to the 2_1 temperature criterion, only the first light-emitting module (2701) can be output in blue color, and if it corresponds to the 2_2 temperature criterion, the first light-emitting module (2701) and the second light-emitting module (2702) can be output in blue color. In addition, if it corresponds to the 2_3 criterion, the first light-emitting module (2701), the second light-emitting module (2702), and the third light-emitting module (2703) can all be output in blue color. These first light-emitting, second light-emitting modules (2702) and third light-emitting modules (2703) may be provided in a ring shape or a plurality of flat shapes along at least a portion of the outer circumference of the support member (220). When using multiple light-emitting modules in this manner, the customer can intuitively know how hot or how cold the item is.

[0081] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a tray device (200) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a tray device (200) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, a support member (220) on a tray (210) may be provided in a flat shape so as to be located on the same plane as the tray (210). In this case, an article (10) is supported in a manner that allows it to be placed on the support member (220).

[0082] When the support is configured in a flat shape as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, a first thermoelectric element and a second thermoelectric element for heating or cooling the support may be accommodated on the lower surface of the flat area corresponding to the support. Additionally, a light-emitting module (270-1) may be placed on the outer edge area of ​​the flat area. Alternatively, a marker (not shown) may be drawn on the tray (210) to facilitate identification of the support. If the item is a beverage, some may spill during the process of placing it down, picking it up, or moving the tray. As shown in FIG. 12, if the support itself is formed as a flat area on the tray (210), cleaning can be made easier even if the beverage spills.

[0083] Meanwhile, if the item is made of metal, the flat support member (220) as shown in FIG. 11 may include a material capable of magnetic coupling to at least a portion of the item (10). Specifically, a plurality of electromagnets (M1, M2) may be provided on the lower part of the flat area that contacts the item (10) on the support member (220). In the case of a beverage, since the container holding the beverage may be made of metal, the item can be fixed to the support member by magnetism using electromagnets.

[0084] The processor (250) controls the polarity of the electromagnets (M1, M2) to be released at the point when the support member (220) is positioned on the other side of the main body and the item (10) is acquired, thereby making it easier to acquire the item (10) from the support member (220) of the tray (210).

[0085] FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a tray device (200) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 13, a plurality of support members (220) may be formed in a recessed shape on the tray (210) of the tray device (200). The embodiment of FIG. 13 may be in a form opposite to the embodiment described in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9.

[0086] When the support portion is formed as a recessed area, if the thickness of the tray (210) is sufficiently thick to accommodate an item, the support portion may be formed as a recessed area without any part protruding upward from the tray (210). On the other hand, if the thickness of the tray (210) is relatively thin, the area around the entrance of the recessed area of ​​the support portion (220) may be implemented in a form that partially protrudes upward from the tray (210).

[0087] When the support member (220) is implemented as a recessed area, the temperature sensor (280) may be provided on the inner bottom surface of the support member (220) or on the inner surface of the recessed area. Additionally, the first thermoelectric element (230-1) to the m-th thermoelectric element (230-m) may be provided spaced apart from each other on the inner surface of the support member (220). Here, the first thermoelectric element (230-1) to the m-th thermoelectric element (230-m) in contact with the article (10) may be formed to correspond to the shape of the article (10). That is, if the article (10) has a tapered shape, the first thermoelectric element (230-1) to the m-th thermoelectric element (230-m) may also be provided in a tapered shape corresponding to this.

[0088] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a tray device (200) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 14, the depth to which an article (10) enters and is mounted within the support member (220) may also vary. If the interior of the support member (220) is formed relatively narrowly, the area into which the article (10) enters the support member (220) may not exceed half of the article (10). In particular, the article (10) may be mounted on the support member (220) through the first thermoelectric element (230-1) to the m-th thermoelectric element (230-m), so that it is spaced upward with some clearance in the interior space of the support member (220). Even in this case, the temperature sensor (280) may be provided to make direct contact with the lower surface of the article (10).

[0089] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a tray device (200) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 15, the depth at which an article (10) enters and is mounted inside the support member (220) may also differ from FIG. 14.

[0090] FIG. 15 shows a state in which an item (10) is rotated to come into direct contact with the bottom surface. The depth at which the item (10) is received can be determined to a level that does not hinder the picking up of the item (10). Furthermore, if the item (10) is an item (10) that contains liquid inside (e.g., a cup, a tumbler, etc.), the depth at which the item (10) is received in the support member (220) can be set differently by taking into account the liquid level.

[0091] FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a tray device (200) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a tray device (200) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 16 and FIG. 17, an article (10) mounted on a support member (220) of the tray device (200) may have its temperature set through a separate medium without directly contacting the first thermoelectric element (230-1) to the m-th thermoelectric element (230). That is, indirect heating or cooling may be possible rather than direct heating or cooling of the article (10). To this end, the support member (220) may be provided with the first thermoelectric element (230-1) to the m-th thermoelectric element (230) to mount the article (10) with an intermediate panel (220a) in between. This intermediate panel (220a) may be provided with a material having high thermal conductivity. In particular, this intermediate panel (220a) is provided with a material that acts as a cushion, so that when it is received in the support member (220), it can prevent shaking or other damage caused by impact between the support member (220) and the item (10).

[0092] FIG. 18 is a drawing illustrating an example of the configuration of a thermoelectric element usable in a tray device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 18, the thermoelectric element (230) may be composed of a substrate (211), a first thermoelectric electrode layer (212), an N-type thermoelectric material (213), a P-type thermoelectric material (214), a conductive bonding layer (215), and a second thermoelectric electrode layer (216). Here, the N-type thermoelectric element (213) and the P-type thermoelectric material (214) are arranged alternately as shown in the illustration. The substrate (211) has a rigid material. That is, it may have a rectangular shape as a rigid-type substrate (211). Also, the substrate (211) may be insulated. The first thermoelectric electrode layer (212) is placed on top of the substrate (211) and may be partially placed in one area of ​​the substrate (211).

[0093] An N-type thermoelectric material (213) is formed in a first region of the substrate (211). For example, the N-type thermoelectric material may be bismuth-tellurium (BixTe1-x). Here, the first region may be an odd-numbered region among the regions of the first thermoelectric electrode layer where the thermoelectric element is placed. A P-type thermoelectric material (214) is formed in a second region of the substrate (211). For example, the P-type thermoelectric material may be antimony-tellurium (SbxTe1-x). Here, the second region may be an even-numbered region among the regions of the first thermoelectric electrode layer where the thermoelectric element is placed. A conductive bonding layer (215) is configured to connect the N-type thermoelectric material (213) and the P-type thermoelectric material (214) to the second thermoelectric electrode layer (216). Meanwhile, the conductive bonding layer (215) may be implemented in an omitted form during implementation.

[0094] The second thermoelectric electrode layer (216) serves to electrically connect the N-type thermoelectric material (213) and the P-type thermoelectric material (214) in series, and can be implemented with a metallic material having excellent electrical conductivity. For example, it may be any one of the following materials: nickel (Ni), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), platinum (Pt), ruthenium (Ru), rhodium (Rh), gold (Au), tungsten (W), cobalt (Co), palladium (Pd), titanium (Ti), tantalum (Ta), iron (Fe), molybdenum (Mo), hafnium (Hf), lanthanum (La), iridium (Ir), silver (Ag), and combinations thereof.

[0095] As described above, the tray device (100) can effectively control the temperature, light emission state, etc. of each support member in a tray having a plurality of support members, thereby enabling the orderer to easily identify their beverage. In addition, the tray device (100) can ensure that the beverage is well preserved in accordance with its original characteristics even if the orderer does not pick up the beverage for a certain period of time or longer. For example, hot beverages can be controlled to remain hot, and cold beverages can be controlled to remain cold.

[0096] In the various embodiments described above, cases were explained where the light-emitting module is implemented as a light-emitting element positioned adjacent to each support member; however, this is not necessarily limited thereto, and a display for displaying the name of the beverage or the name of the orderer may also be positioned adjacent to each support member. The display may also display information such as the temperature of the beverage and the time elapsed since serving. If a temperature sensor is provided, the temperature change status of the beverage may be displayed on the display in real time.

[0097] The various embodiments described above may be performed independently by the tray device (200), but may also be performed by the control of an electronic device provided separately from the tray device (200).

[0098] FIG. 19 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an electronic device (100) according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The electronic device (100) can control a tray device (200) to perform operations according to various embodiments.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 19, the electronic device (100) controlling the operation of the tray device is an electronic device (100) controlling the operation of the tray device (200) and may include an interface (110), a communication unit (120), a memory (130), and a processor (140).

[0100] The interface (110) is configured to receive order information or other user commands for ordering goods. The interface (110) may be implemented as a touch screen, but is not necessarily limited thereto and may be implemented in a form including a general display and various buttons. When implemented as a touch screen, the interface (110) may include a display panel for displaying information on various orderable goods and order history, a touch panel for detecting touch input from the lower side of the display panel, and a touch screen controller for controlling the same. The orderer can order goods through the interface (110).

[0101] The communication unit (120) is configured to perform communication with various external devices. The communication unit (120) can perform communication using at least one of various wireless communication methods such as 3G (3rd Generation), 4G (4th Generation), Wireless LAN, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct), UWB (Ultra wideband), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), NFC (Near Field Communication), and Z-Wave. The communication unit (120) can perform communication with various external devices such as a tray device (200), a user terminal device, or a server device. The orderer is not required to input order information through the interface (110), but can transmit order information online through their terminal device, and the communication unit (120) can receive this and provide it to the processor (140).

[0102] Memory (130) is a configuration for storing various programs, data, and instructions required for the operation of an electronic device (100). Memory (130) can be implemented as at least one of various types of memory, such as RAM (dynamic RAM), SRAM (static RAM), SDRAM (synchronous dynamic RAM), OTPROM (one-time programmable ROM), PROM (programmable ROM), EPROM (erasable and programmable ROM), EEPROM (electrically erasable and programmable ROM), mask ROM, flash ROM, flash memory, hard drive, or solid state drive (SSD). Although only one memory (130) is shown in FIG. 19, there may be multiple memory (130). Additionally, at least one memory may be implemented in a form integrated with the processor (130).

[0103] The processor (140) can control the tray device (200) and the robot arm (5), etc., based on data, programs, and instructions stored in the memory (130).

[0104] Specifically, when order information for ordering an item is input through the interface (110), the processor (140) can identify the characteristics of the item based on the information stored in the memory (130). The processor (140) transmits a control signal to the tray device (200) through the communication unit (120) to control heating or cooling the support on which the item is to be placed, depending on the characteristics of the item. The control signal may include identification information for specifying the support on which the item is to be placed among all the supports provided in the tray device (200). The identification information may be a sequentially assigned number or an ID, etc.

[0105] Additionally, the processor (140) stores information about an item and information about the support on which the item is placed in memory (130). The information about the item may be information about the item name, order time, item characteristics, etc.

[0106] Afterward, when new order information for ordering a new item is input through the interface (110), the processor (140) identifies a support member among a plurality of support members that corresponds to the characteristics of the new item based on information stored in the memory (130). For example, if the new item is a cold beverage, it identifies whether there is a previously cooled support member among the plurality of support members. If, as a result of identification, there is a cooled support member, the processor (140) controls the tray device (200) to place the item on the identified support member. Accordingly, the tray device can provide the new beverage while utilizing the previously cooled or heated support member as is.

[0107] The processor (140) may also control the tray device to emit a color corresponding to the characteristics of the new product for the light-emitting module provided on the identified support. That is, the tray device may be controlled to emit a blue color for the support that provided the cold drink, and a red color for the support that provided the hot drink.

[0108] In addition, the operations of the tray device described in the various embodiments above may be performed under the control of the processor (140) of the electronic device (100). A redundant description of this is omitted.

[0109] FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling an electronic device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The electronic device in FIG. 20 is a device for controlling the operation of a tray device comprising a plurality of support members for supporting an article and a plurality of thermoelectric elements for heating or cooling each of the plurality of support members.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 20, when order information is entered, the electronic device can control the tray device (200) to heat or cool the support (220) on which the item (10) is placed, according to the characteristics of the item (10) corresponding to the order information (S110).

[0111] The electronic device can store information about the article (10) and the support (220) on which the article (10) is placed (S120).

[0112] After this, when new order information is entered into the electronic device, it can identify at least one support member (220) corresponding to the characteristics of the item (10) corresponding to the new order information based on the stored information (S130).

[0113] The electronic device controls the tray device (200) to place an item (10) on at least one identified support (220) (S140).

[0114] If a light-emitting module corresponding to each support is present in the tray device, the electronic device may control the tray device (200) to emit a color corresponding to the temperature of the article (10) from the light-emitting module (270) provided in at least one identified support (220).

[0115] The control method described in FIG. 20 may be performed by the electronic device shown in FIG. 19, but is not necessarily limited thereto, and may also be performed by an electronic device in which some components are deleted, added, or modified. In addition, the tray device itself may control the operation of the tray in the same manner as described in FIG. 20.

[0116] Although various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described individually above, each embodiment is not necessarily required to be implemented alone, and the configuration and operation of each embodiment may be implemented in combination with at least one other embodiment. Furthermore, although preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible by those skilled in the art without departing from the gist of the present disclosure as claimed in the claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical spirit or perspective of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An electronic device for controlling the operation of a tray device comprising a plurality of support members for supporting an article and a plurality of temperature control modules for heating or cooling each of the plurality of support members, Interface; A communication unit for performing communication with the above tray device; Memory; and Includes a processor; The above processor is, When order information for ordering an item is entered through the interface, the tray device is controlled to heat or cool the support on which the item is placed according to the characteristics of the item, and information regarding the item and the support on which the item is placed is stored in the memory. An electronic device that, when new order information for ordering a new item is entered through the interface, identifies a support member among the plurality of support members corresponding to the characteristics of the new item based on information stored in the memory, and controls the tray device to place the item on the identified support member.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above processor is, An electronic device that controls the tray device to emit a color corresponding to the characteristics of the new article from a light-emitting module provided in the identified support portion.

3. In a tray device, A tray equipped with multiple support members; A plurality of temperature control modules disposed on each of the above plurality of support members; Power supply unit; and Includes a processor; The above processor is, A tray device that controls the power supply unit to apply an electric signal to a temperature control module corresponding to a support unit among the plurality of support units on which an article is to be placed, thereby cooling or heating the support unit to match the characteristics of the article.

4. In Paragraph 3, It further includes a plurality of light-emitting modules arranged for each of the plurality of support members. The above processor is, A tray device that, when an article is placed on one of the plurality of support members, controls a light-emitting module placed on the support member on which the article is placed to emit light in a color corresponding to the temperature of the article.

5. In Paragraph 4, The light-emitting module comprises at least one first light-emitting element for emitting a red color and at least one second light-emitting element for emitting a blue color, and A tray device wherein the processor controls the light-emitting module to emit the red color when the temperature of the item is above a first reference temperature, and controls the light-emitting module to emit the blue color when the temperature of the item is below a second reference temperature.

6. In Paragraph 5, The above processor is, A tray device that controls the light-emitting module to maintain a light-emitting state even after the item placed on the support is picked up, thereby guiding the position where a new item of similar temperature is to be placed.

7. In Paragraph 5, It further includes an actuator for moving the above tray; and The above processor is, When at least one item is placed on at least one of the plurality of support members while the tray is positioned inside the main body of the tray device, the actuator is controlled to protrude the tray to the outside of the main body. A tray device that controls the actuator to move the tray into the interior of the main body when all of the at least one item is picked up from the tray.

8. In Paragraph 7, It further includes temperature sensors provided for each of the above-mentioned plurality of support members. The above processor The power supply unit is controlled to heat the at least one support member when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor disposed on at least one of the plurality of support members is greater than or equal to the first reference temperature, and A tray device that controls the power supply to cool the at least one support when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor disposed in the at least one support is lower than or equal to a second reference temperature.

9. In Paragraph 7, The above plurality of support members are, It is a cylindrical shape that protrudes from the above tray, has an opening formed on its upper surface, and has a space formed within the opening to support the above article, The above plurality of temperature control modules A tray device comprising at least one first thermoelectric element for heating the inner side of a support member on the inner side of each support member and at least one second thermoelectric element for cooling the inner side of the support member.

10. In Paragraph 9, A tray device wherein the light-emitting module is disposed in at least one of the peripheral edge area of ​​the cylindrical support, the edge area of ​​the opening, and the outer wall surface of the plurality of support.

11. In Paragraph 7, The above plurality of support members are, It has a shape that is sunken into the interior of the tray, and The above plurality of temperature control modules It includes at least one first thermoelectric element for heating the inner side of the support member on the inner surface of the recessed area forming each support member, and at least one second thermoelectric element for cooling the inner side of the support member. The above light-emitting module is, A tray device disposed in the peripheral perimeter area of ​​the entrance of the recessed area forming each of the above-mentioned support members.

12. In Paragraph 7, The above plurality of support members are, It is formed on the same plane as the above tray, and The plurality of temperature control modules above include at least one first thermoelectric element for heating a planar area corresponding to each support within the tray and It includes at least one second thermoelectric element for cooling a planar region corresponding to each of the above-mentioned support members, The above-described light-emitting module is a tray device disposed in the outer edge region of the planar area corresponding to each of the plurality of support members.

13. In Paragraph 7, It further includes weight sensing sensors provided for each of the plurality of support members; A tray device, wherein the processor identifies whether the item is placed on the plurality of support members based on the sensing value of the weight sensing sensor, and controls the actuator to protrude the tray to the outside of the main body if the total number of items placed on the plurality of support members matches the order information.

14. In Paragraph 3, It further includes a communication unit for performing communication with an external device. The above processor is, A tray device that identifies a support member among a plurality of support members on which an article is to be placed, and controls a temperature control module corresponding to the identified support member, based on a control signal received from an external device through the communication unit.

15. A method for controlling the operation of an electronic device comprising a plurality of support members for supporting an article and a plurality of thermoelectric elements for heating or cooling each of the plurality of support members, wherein A step of controlling the tray device to heat or cool the support on which the item is to be placed, according to the characteristics of the item corresponding to the order information, when order information is entered; A step of storing information about the above-mentioned item and the support on which the above-mentioned item is placed; When new order information is entered, a step of identifying at least one support corresponding to the characteristics of an item corresponding to the new order information based on the stored information; and A control method comprising the step of controlling the tray device to place the article on at least one of the identified supports.

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