Refrigerated point of sale container system

Abstract

A refrigerated point of sale ("POS") container system includes a POS interface and vending machine system for distributing primary containers. The refrigerated POS container system combines a POS and storage space into a single unit refrigerated POS container system for deployment in any beverage sale location, such as entertainment venues, parking lots, retail centers, events, parks, etc. The refrigerated POS container system can be packed out and prepared with containers at a distributor ready for quick delivery to any beverage sale location. The refrigerated POS container system includes a pressure release, or opening mechanism, that opens a container dispensed by the refrigerated POS container system (prior to dispensing the container) such that the container cannot be resealed by a purchaser and is safe for handling inside a venue.

Description

Atty Docket No. 4064-398-PCTREFRIGERATED POINT OF SALE CONTAINER SYSTEMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of and priority, under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e), to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 735,769, filed on December 18, 2024, entitled “REFRIGERATED POINT OF SALE CONTAINER SYSTEM,” the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference, in its entirety, for all that it teaches and for all purposes.BACKGROUND

[0002] The present disclosure is generally directed to point of sale systems, in particular, toward deployable refrigerated point of sale container storage, management, and dispensing systems.

[0003] As entertainment venues are shifting from dispensing and selling draft beer, or other cup-dispensed beverages, toward selling beverages in their primary containers (e.g., cans, aluminum bottles, etc.), storage space and material handling has become a major issue for retailers. The space inside an entertainment venue such as hockey stadium, baseball stadium, or football stadium, etc., is naturally constrained based on the general construction and layout of the stadium, seating, and walkways. When an entertainment venue is at capacity, floorspace is critical in providing clear paths for foot traffic, ingress and egress for emergencies, quick movement of people from one location to another, and contributing to the overall enjoyment of the entertainment venue experience.

[0004] Moreover, concession stands and retail spaces in or around an entertainment venue are limited to specific areas or have a limited number of spots and, as such, traffic to those locations is difficult to change dynamically, for example, based on popularity or business. By way of example, during the intermission between periods of a hockey game, the lines at the only beer retailer in an area of the venue may be significantly larger than the lines at some other retail stand at the venue. In this example, people may be required to wait for long periods of time, compromise and visit a different retail stand, or abandon the effort and wait until the game starts to purchase a beverage without waiting. As can be appreciated, in any of these circumstances, the enjoyment of the entertainment venue may be reduced.Atty Docket No. 4064-398-PCTBRIEF SUMMARY

[0005] It is with respect to the above issues and other problems that the embodiments presented herein were contemplated. In some embodiments of the present disclosure a self-contained refrigerated shipping container including a point of sale (“POS”) interface and automatic vending machine system for distributing primary containers is provided. Embodiments of the present disclosure combine both POS and storage space into a single refrigerated POS container system for deployment in one or more beverage sale locations (e.g., entertainment venues, parking lots, retail centers, events, parks, etc.). The refrigerated POS container system units may be packed out and prepared at the distributor ready for quick delivery to any beverage sale location that desires to augment their existing POS locations and / or inventory during a regularly scheduled event, a special event, or a post season event.

[0006] Embodiments of the refrigerated POS container system may be configured in different sizes or arrangements. For instance, in one embodiment, a longer unit may be delivered (e.g., by a storage container delivery truck, etc.) directly to a parking lot of a venue to retail during tailgating. In this configuration, the refrigerated POS container system may offer greater variety and trial to consumers and sample different brands as they would be able to purchase single serve in the parking lot. In another embodiment, the refrigerated POS container system may be configured to be deployed inside a venue to, for example, alleviate storage concerns and increase POS locations inside the building. In this manner, the product may be retailed right where it is stored and can be minimally staffed or even fully automated (e.g., avoiding the need for staff to attend to the sale of beverages from the refrigerated POS container system).

[0007] In some embodiments, the refrigerated POS container system may include a pressure release and / or opening mechanism that is configured to open the primary container such that the container cannot be resealed and is safe for handling inside a venue.

[0008] The preceding is a simplified summary of the disclosure to provide an understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. This summary is neither an extensive nor exhaustive overview of the disclosure and its various aspects, embodiments, and configurations. It is intended neither to identify key or critical elements of the disclosure nor to delineate the scope of the disclosure but to present selected concepts of the disclosure in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be appreciated, other aspects, embodiments, and configurationsAtty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT of the disclosure are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.

[0009] Numerous additional features and advantages are described herein and will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following Detailed Description and in view of the figures.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The accompanying drawings are incorporated into and form a part of the specification to illustrate several examples of the present disclosure. These drawings, together with the description, explain the principles of the disclosure. The drawings simply illustrate preferred and alternative examples of how the disclosure can be made and used and are not to be construed as limiting the disclosure to only the illustrated and described examples. Further features and advantages will become apparent from the following, more detailed, description of the various aspects, embodiments, and configurations of the disclosure, as illustrated by the drawings referenced below.

[0011] Fig. 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a refrigerated POS container system in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0012] Fig. 2 shows a block diagram depicting components of a refrigerated POS container system for dispensing a beverage container in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0013] Fig. 3 is a flow diagram of a method for dispensing a beverage container from the refrigerated POS container system in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0014] Figs. 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 show example perspective views of the refrigerated POS container system 100 deployed in different locations in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] Before any embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof hereinAtty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Further, the present disclosure may use examples to illustrate one or more aspects thereof. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the use or listing of one or more examples (which may be denoted by “for example,” “by way of example,” “e.g.,” “such as,” or similar language) is not intended to and does not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0016] The ensuing description provides embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the claims. Rather, the ensuing description will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing the described embodiments. It being understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

[0017] Various aspects of the present disclosure will be described herein with reference to drawings that may be schematic illustrations of idealized configurations.

[0018] In conventional beverage dispensing technology, providing an adequate dispensing of beverages, or beverage containers, at social, business, and / or entertainment venues to satisfy demands requires careful planning, storage space allocation, management resources, and staffing by the venues. While these venues may be able to predict a level of expected demand for beverages (i.e., the products), the dispensing of beverages is still limited to the predicted demand and the existing physical locations where the beverages can be dispensed. As can be appreciated, in such a conventional system, there is no ability to easily or quickly expand the ability to offer additional products for distribution or to allow for a flexible deployment of the distribution beyond the existing physical locations at a venue.

[0019] It is with respect to the above issues and other problems that the embodiments presented herein were contemplated.

[0020] Referring to Fig. 1, a perspective view of a refrigerated POS container system 100 is shown in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The refrigerated POS container system 100 may be configured to include a container housing 104. The container housing 104 may correspond to a standard storage, intermodal freight, or shipping container (“shipping container”) including one or more external dimensions, features, and / or other specifications associated with shipping containers. These features may include, but are in no way limited to, one or more fork lift pockets 106, access doors 110A, HOB, hinges, locking mechanisms, corrugated sidewalls, etc.Atty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT

[0021] The fork lift pockets 106 may be arranged along one or more bottom side edges of the container housing 104. In one embodiment, the fork lift pockets 106 may provide an aperture through which the “forks” of a forklift, pallet jack, crane, lift, or other moving device, may be received when moving the refrigerated POS container system 100. In some embodiments, the refrigerated POS container system 100 may be anchored at a location via one or more of these fork lift pockets 106 or other features of the container housing 104.

[0022] The access doors 110A, HOB may be arranged on a side and / or end of the container housing 104. As illustrated in Fig. 1, the access doors 110A, HOB are arranged on an end of the container housing 104 including a first door 110A and a second door 110B. The access doors 110A, 110B may open about hinges that are arranged adjacent the sidewalls of the container housing 104. In this arrangement, an opening into the interior space of the container housing 104 can be selectively accessed. In some examples, this opening may correspond to the overall width and height of the interior of the container housing 104 (e.g., providing complete access to the interior from the end of the container housing 104). The access doors 110A, 110B may be locked (e.g., via one or more locks and / or locking mechanisms) in a closed position to prevent unauthorized or unwanted access into the interior space of the container housing 104. In some embodiments, the access doors 110A, 110B may seal an interior space of the container housing 104 from an exterior of the container housing 104. The seal may include one more gaskets arranged between the access doors 110A, 110B and the opening of the container housing 104. The gaskets may provide an air-tight seal, a water-tight seal, an insulated seal, an environmentally controlled seal, etc., and / or combinations thereof.

[0023] Although several dimensions of the container housing 104 are shown in Fig. 1, it should be appreciated that these dimensions may correspond to the size of any shipping container (e.g., 10 ft, 15 ft, 20 ft, 24 ft, 40 ft, 45 ft, 53 ft, etc.), without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. The dimensions shown in Fig. 1 may correspond to the dimensions associated with a standard 20 ft shipping container.

[0024] The refrigerated POS container system 100 may include a complete beverage container storage, management, and dispensing system. In some embodiments, the refrigerated POS container system 100 may be self-contained and require no power, air, or other connection to an outside source. For instance, the refrigerated POS container system 100 may include a power generator (see, e.g., Fig. 2), an air compressor (see, e.g., Fig. 2), and / or a refrigerator 112 to form a refrigerated POS container system 100 that is “self-Atty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT contained” (e.g., capable of operating independently and without requiring a physical interconnection to an external component or source). As can be appreciated, in this arrangement, the refrigerated POS container system 100 may be deployed in any area where power (or air, etc.) is not readily available. Such areas may include, but are in no way limited to, a parking lot, a remote area in a stadium, and / or some other physical location where an external source of power is not available to operate the refrigerated POS container system 100. In some embodiments, the refrigerated POS container system 100 may include a limited connection, or interface, with power, air, and / or refrigerant. For example, in one embodiment, the refrigerated POS container system 100 may only require a single power plug to be interconnected with an external power receptacle (e.g., external power source) to provide power, refrigeration, and / or otherwise operate the refrigerated POS container system 100 in a self-contained and independent manner.

[0025] The refrigerated POS container system 100 may include a storage area that is configured to store one or more beverage containers 102 in an area adjacent a container conveyor and / or vending transfer system. The one or more beverage containers 102 may include any container, or combination of containers, capable of holding and / or containing a beverage (e.g., bottles, cans, boxes, bag-in-a-box, etc.). The one or more beverage containers 102 may be arranged in the storage area in groups according to beverage brand, container type (e.g., bottle, can, etc.), and / or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the storage area may be a part of the container conveyor and / or the container transfer system (see, e.g., Fig. 2). In any event, the storage area, container conveyor, the container transfer system, and / or the container opening mechanism, all illustrated in Fig. 2, may be arranged in the environmentally controlled space 130 of the container housing 104. In this manner, the one or more beverage containers 102 can be maintained at an appropriate temperature prior to and upon vending / dispensing.

[0026] The refrigerated POS container system 100 may include at least one refrigerator 112, display device 116, vending / dispensing system 120, and image sensor 124. The refrigerator 112 may correspond to a refrigeration unit that is configured to refrigerate the environmentally controlled space 130 of the container housing 104. The refrigerator 112 may correspond to any refrigerating unit or system that is capable of maintaining the environmentally controlled space 130 at a predetermined temperature or range of temperatures. In some embodiments, the refrigerator 112 may include a heat exchanger, compressor, pump, refrigerant, and / or one or more cooling lines. The refrigerator 112 may provide a controlled exchange of air between the environmentally controlled space 130Atty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT and an exterior of the container housing 104. The temperature or range of temperatures may be selected based on a recommended temperature for the one or more beverage containers 102. In some embodiments, the refrigerator 112 may be configured to keep different containers in the one or more beverage containers 102 at different temperatures.

[0027] The refrigerated POS container system 100 may include at least one display device 116 that is arranged adjacent a dispense area of the vending / dispensing system 120. The display device 116 may be configured as a digital light emitting diode (“LED”) screen, touchscreen, or other graphical user interface device. The display device 116 may include on or more display screens, speakers, microphones, cameras, and / or the like. The display device 116 may provide information to a potential purchaser about the beverages in the refrigerated POS container system 100, advertisements, banners, cost information, graphics, animations, and / or other graphical user interface elements. In some embodiments, the display device 116 may display a cost and / or a quantity of a particular beverage in the refrigerated POS container system 100. In one embodiment, the display device 116 may render a digital version (e.g., avatar) of a bartender, retail salesperson, and / or assistant. In this example, the display device 116 may provide an approachable interface to make beverage purchases from the refrigerated POS container system 100. In any event, the display device 116 may allow a purchaser to interact with the refrigerated POS container system 100 when making a selection of a beverage (e.g., to purchase) from the refrigerated POS container system 100.

[0028] The vending / dispensing system 120 may include one or more devices that are configured to transfer a purchased beverage container from the environmentally controlled space 130 to the dispense area (e.g., an externally accessible area) of the refrigerated POS container system 100. The vending / dispensing system 120 may include a tray or platform that is capable of presenting the purchased beverage container to a purchaser when the beverage container is in an opened or unsealed state. The vending / dispensing system 120 may include a door, a transfer mechanism, and / or some other device that allows a beverage container to be served to a purchaser without providing access into the environmentally controlled space 130.

[0029] In some embodiments, the refrigerated POS container system 100 may include at least one image sensor 124. The image sensor 124 may correspond to a camera that is capable of taking one or more images of a purchaser interacting with the refrigerated POS container system 100. The image sensor 124 may be arranged on one or more sides, or ends, of the container housing 104. In some embodiments, the image sensor 124 may beAtty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT arranged adjacent the display device 116. In any event, images captured by the image sensor 124 may be used to identify the age and / or presence of a purchaser that is in proximity to the image sensor 124.

[0030] Payment for a beverage (and for processing the beverage container holding the beverage) may be made using the payment interface 126 arranged adjacent the display device 116. The payment interface 126 may correspond to a wireless payment device (e.g., near field communications (“NFC”) pay station, a tap-to-pay station, or other proximitybased wireless communication station) and / or a credit card reader. In some embodiments, a purchaser may make a payment via the payment interface 126 by using an NFC-enabled device, such as a smartphone, smartwatch, or credit card, that, when placed in proximity to the payment interface 126 causes the wireless communication between the NFC-enabled device and the payment interface 126 to initiate and process the payment. In some embodiments, the payment interface 126 may include hardware, drivers, or firmware that facilitates receiving or distributing physical money (e.g., bills, coins, tokens, etc.). In some embodiments, the payment interface 126 may include hardware and software configured to output physical money to a purchaser during a transaction (e.g., when change is required for a purchase made using physical money or tokens, etc.). In any event, once a payment is made, the beverage container may be transferred by the refrigerated POS container system 100 from the storage area in the environmentally controlled space 130 to the dispense area as described herein.

[0031] With reference now to Fig. 2, additional details of the components that may be included in a refrigerated POS container system 100 will be described in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The refrigerated POS container system 100 is shown to include a power supply 204, processor 208, memory storage device 212, network interface 214, generator 216, compressor 218, container conveyor 220, container transfer system 224, and container opening mechanism 228. Other components of the refrigerated POS container system 100 may include, but are in no way limited to, at least one display device 116, image sensor 124, payment interface 126, refrigerator 112, and vending / dispensing system 120.

[0032] The power supply 204 may correspond to a battery, power converter (e.g., AC- DC), transfer switch, and / or the like, that is capable of providing power to one or more components of the refrigerated POS container system 100. In some embodiments, the power supply 204 may include an electrical interface (e.g., plug or receptacle) that isAtty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT capable of interconnecting with an external power source. The power from the power supply 204 may be provided over a power and / or communications bus 202.

[0033] In some embodiments, the processor 208 may correspond to one or many microprocessors, Central Processing Units (“CPUs”), microcontrollers, Integrated Circuit (“IC”) chips, or the like. The processor 208 may be configured to execute one or more instruction sets stored in the memory storage device 212. In some embodiments, the instruction sets stored in memory storage device 212, when executed by the processor 208, may enable the refrigerated POS container system 100 to provide environmental control, beverage container management, beverage container dispensing, payment, identification, and / or communications functionality.

[0034] The memory storage device 212 may include one or multiple computer memory devices that are volatile or non-volatile. The memory storage device 212 may be configured to store instruction sets that enable purchaser interaction with the computational device 100, payment functionality, identification functionality, and beverage dispensing by the refrigerated POS container system 100. In some embodiments, the memory storage device 212 may store information about an inventor of beverages and beverage containers inside the refrigerated POS container system 100, temperature of the environmentally controlled space 130, purchaser identification, age requirements for each of the one or more beverage containers 102, and / or the like.

[0035] The network interface 214 may include, without limitation, an Ethernet port, a Universal Serial Bus (“USB”) port, an RS-232 port, a network interface controller (“NIC”), an antenna, a driver circuit, a modulator / demodulator, etc., and / or combinations thereof. The network interface 214 may include one or multiple different network interfaces depending upon whether the refrigerated POS container system 100 is connecting to a single communication network or multiple different types of communication networks. For instance, the refrigerated POS container system 100 may be provided with both a wired network interface 214 and a wireless network interface 214 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0036] The generator 216 may include an electrical generator capable of providing power to the one or more components of the refrigerated POS container system 100 when external power is not provided to the refrigerated POS container system 100. In some embodiments, the generator 216 may correspond to a gas-powered generator, a battery- powered generator, and / or the like. The generator 216 may output voltage in AC and / or DC. In some embodiments, the generator 216 may interface with the power supply 204Atty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT(e.g., via the bus 202), to ensure that external power and power provided by the generator 216 are not supplied simultaneously. The generator 216 and / or the power supply 204 may allow the refrigerated POS container system 100 to operate in an independent or self- contained state. Stated another way, the generator 216 and / or the power supply 204 may allow the refrigerated POS container system 100 to operate independently of an external power source (e.g., a power source that is external to the refrigerated POS container system 100, mains power, etc.).

[0037] The refrigerated POS container system 100 may optionally include a compressor 218 that is configured to provide compressed air to one or more of the components in the refrigerated POS container system 100. For instance, the compressor 218 may provide compressed air to operate one or more of the container conveyor 220, the container transfer system 224, the container opening mechanism 228, the vending / dispensing system 120, and / or subcomponents thereof.

[0038] One or more beverage containers 102 may be moved from the environmentally controlled space 130 to the dispense area of the refrigerated POS container system 100 via the container conveyor 220, the container transfer system 224, and / or the vending / dispensing system 120. In some embodiments, the one or more beverage containers 102 may need to be opened prior to transferring the one or more beverage containers 102 to the vending / dispensing system 120 or dispense area of the refrigerated POS container system 100. For example, entertainment venues typically require that a primary container (e.g., a can, aluminum bottle, etc.) cannot be sold to a purchaser in a sealed state. In particular, when the primary container is in a sealed state, the primary container may be used as a projectile or heavy object that can be thrown and that may cause bodily harm or other damage. Accordingly, by opening the one or more beverage containers 102 (e.g., such that the one or more beverage containers 102 cannot be resealed), the one or more beverage containers 102 do not maintain the ability to be thrown as far, or with as much potential damage, as a sealed container.

[0039] In some embodiments, the container conveyor 220 may include a roller conveyor, belt conveyor, link conveyor, hopper, inclined surface or rack, and / or other conveying mechanism that is capable of moving the one or more beverage containers 102 from one point to another point in the container housing 104. In some embodiments, the container conveyor 220 may be electrically controlled by signals received from the processor 208 (e.g., in response to a request for a particular beverage, to move inventory, and / or the like).Atty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT

[0040] The container transfer system 224 may include a pick-and-place mechanism, a solenoid, a lift mechanism, a linear actuator, a gripper, and / or combinations thereof. The container transfer system 224 may be configured to select a particular beverage container from the one or more beverage containers 102 and transfer the particular beverage container to the container opening mechanism 228 and / or the vending / dispensing system 120. In some embodiments, the container transfer system 224 may include an XY cartesian coordinate actuator system with gripper end-effector that is capable of selecting a particular beverage container from an array of locations corresponding to the one or more beverage containers 102 stored in the environmentally controlled space 130.

[0041] In some embodiments, the refrigerated POS container system 100 may include a container opening mechanism 228. The container opening mechanism 228 may be configured to punch, pierce, de-cap, or otherwise open the one or more beverage containers 102 before vending / dispensing to a purchaser. The container opening mechanism 228 may open the one or more beverage containers 102 such that the one or more beverage containers 102 cannot be resealed after being purchased. When a primary container of the one or more beverage containers 102 is configured as a can, the container opening mechanism 228 may open the primary container along the tear line of the tear strip portion of the can end. When the primary container of the one or more beverage containers 102 is configured as a bottle (e.g., aluminum bottle, fiber bottle, etc.), the container opening mechanism 228 may open the primary container by removing the cap from the bottle or by puncturing or punching an opening in the cap of the bottle. Once the cap is removed it may be recycled or discarded. However the cap is not transferred to the purchaser. In any event, once opened by the container opening mechanism 228 and dispensed by the vending / dispensing system 120, the primary container (regardless of the primary container configuration) cannot be resealed by the purchaser.

[0042] Fig. 3 is a flow diagram of a method 300 for dispensing a beverage container 102 from the refrigerated POS container system 100 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The methods described herein may be run as a set of instructions on the refrigerated POS container system 100 and / or some other server in communication with the refrigerated POS container system 100.

[0043] The method begins by receiving an input corresponding to a beverage dispense request (step 304). The beverage dispense request may correspond to an input provided by a purchaser at the display device 116 and / or payment interface 126 selecting a beverage that is associated with beverage container 102. The input may be made by the purchaserAtty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT selecting an image or icon of a beverage displayed to the display device 116. For instance, the display device 116 may be a touchscreen and the beverage dispense request may be initiated after the purchaser has touched the icon representing the beverage and, in some cases, after a payment has been received via the payment interface 126.

[0044] The method 300 continues by determining if age verification is required to dispense the beverage selected by the purchaser (step 308). As can be appreciated, the refrigerated POS container system 100 may be configured to hold and dispense beverage containers 102 with beverages containing alcohol or other fluids with age-restricted distribution (e.g., beer, wine, spirits, cannabidiol (CBD), or combinations thereof). In some embodiments, each container of the one or more beverage containers 102 may be identified with an NFC tag, barcode, or other identifier including information that allows the refrigerated POS container system 100 to determine whether the beverage inside the one or more beverage containers 102 requires age verification. In one embodiment, as the one or more beverage containers 102 pass along the container conveyor 220, or the container transfer system 224, a reader (e.g., NFC, barcode, etc.) may scan, or read, the one or more beverage containers 102 to read the identifier associated therewith and determine that age verification is required. In some embodiments, the storage of age- restricted beverages may be allocated to a particular zone inside the environmentally controlled space 130 that requires age verification before the one or more beverage containers 102 from that particular zone are conveyed and transferred to the purchaser.

[0045] When age verification is required, the method 300 proceeds to step 312, where the refrigerated POS container system 100 verifies the age and / or identification information for the purchaser. In some embodiments, when age verification is required, the refrigerated POS container system 100 may cause images of a purchaser captured by the image sensor 124 to be sent to an age or identity verification system. In one embodiment, the purchaser may be verified by comparing an image of the purchaser standing in front of the image sensor 124 to an image of the purchaser on a legal identification card (e.g., driver’s license, passport, etc.).

[0046] Next, the method 300 determines whether the purchaser is of legal age in accordance with the age restriction (step 316). In one embodiment, the refrigerated POS container system 100 may, in response to verifying the age and / or identification information of the purchaser in step 312, determine if the verified age is unrestricted based on the age restriction associated with the beverage requested. By way of example, when the refrigerated POS container system 100 determines the purchaser is only 16 years old,Atty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT has requested a beer beverage, and is in a locality that restricts the sale of alcohol to those under the age of 21 years old, the sale of the beverage would be rejected (i.e., the purchaser is not of legal age). However, when the refrigerated POS container system 100 determines the purchaser is 23 years old, has requested a beer beverage, and is in a locality that restricts the sale of alcohol to those under the age of 21 years old, the sale of the beverage would be approved (i.e., the purchaser is of legal age).

[0047] As provided above, when the purchaser is determined not to be of legal age, the method 300 may continue by rejecting the sale of the beverage (step 336). This step may include providing information about the rejection including, but in no way limited to, presenting the age restriction to the purchaser via one or more graphics rendered by the display device 116 (e.g., including a warning that further attempts to purchase the beverage will be reported, etc.), emit an audible sound indicating that the sale has been rejected, render alternate selections that are not age restricted to the display device 116, and / or otherwise halt the transaction.

[0048] In some embodiments, the method 300 may determine that the attempt made to purchase the age-restricted beverage is a repeated attempt by the purchaser (step 340). This determination may be made based on the beverage selection, the identity of the purchaser, and / or other information. For example, the refrigerated POS container system 100 may store (e.g., in the memory storage device 212) attempts made by purchasers at the refrigerated POS container system 100 and / or at other refrigerated POS container systems. When more than a predetermined number of attempts (e.g., greater than 1 attempt, 2 attempts, or 3 attempts, etc.) is made at one or more of the refrigerated POS container systems 100, the refrigerated POS container system 100 may determine that the purchaser has made a repeated attempt.

[0049] If the purchaser has made a repeated attempt, the method 300 may proceed to send a lock notification and send an alert of the repeated attempt (step 344). In one embodiment, the lock notification may prevent further sales of beverages from the refrigerated POS container system 100 until the refrigerated POS container system 100 is unlocked by a monitor or other authorized personnel. In one embodiment, the method 300 will prevent the purchaser from purchasing beverages from the refrigerated POS container system 100. The alert may correspond to a visual alert (e.g., rendered to the display device 116), an audible alert (e.g., emitted by at least one speaker of the refrigerated POS container system 100), a text or other message sent wirelessly to a monitoring device, etc., and / or combinations thereof. In one example, the display device 116 may flash a redAtty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT background stating that an unlawful attempt to purchase an age-restricted beverage has been made, which can, for instance, alert monitors to intervene and reset the refrigerated POS container system 100.

[0050] If, however, it is determined that the purchaser has not made a repeated attempt, the method 300 may proceed to prompt the purchaser to make a different beverage selection (step 348). This step may include rendering a warning about the age-restriction via the display device 116 and only presenting beverages in the refrigerated POS container system 100 that are not subject to the age-restriction. At this point, the method 300 may return to step 304.

[0051] When the purchaser is determined to be of legal age, the method (300) may proceed to send the beverage dispense signal to the container transfer system 224 (step 320). In this step, the refrigerated POS container system 100 may determine a particular location of one or more beverage containers 102 associated with the beverage dispense request and move a beverage container 102 from a storage location, conveyor location, or other location inside the environmentally controlled space 130 to a staging area inside the environmentally controlled space 130.

[0052] Next, the method 300 proceeds by transferring the beverage container 102 to a container opening mechanism 228 (step 324). The transfer of the beverage container 102 may be made by a pick-and-place system or other actuator that is capable of moving the beverage container 102 from a storage location to the container opening mechanism 228. Once transferred, the method 300 continues by opening the container (changing a state of the container from a sealed state to an unsealed state) (step 328). As described above, the opening of the beverage container 102 may be made such that the beverage container 102 cannot be resealed after being transferred to the purchaser.

[0053] Once the beverage container 102 has been opened (e.g., is in an unsealed state), the beverage container 102 is dispensed to the purchaser (step 332). In some embodiments, the beverage container 102 may be transferred by a lift mechanism, a turntable, and / or by some other transfer mechanism. In any event, during the transfer of the beverage container 102 from the environmentally controlled space 130 to the dispense area, the purchaser may be restricted from accessing the environmentally controlled space 130 or other area inside the container housing 104 (e.g., via gates, security doors, etc.). The method 300 may be repeated to by the same or other purchaser by returning to step 304.

[0054] Any of the steps, functions, and operations discussed herein can be performed continuously and automatically.Atty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT

[0055] Figs. 4-10 show example perspective views of the refrigerated POS container system 100 deployed in different locations with various configurations. Figs. 4-6 show illustrations of refrigerated POS container systems 100 deployed in parking lots or other remote event areas (e.g., such as tailgating locations, etc.). Figs. 7-10 show illustrations of refrigerated POS container systems 100 deployed inside an entertainment venue (e.g., a stadium, etc.).

[0056] While the flowcharts have been discussed and illustrated in relation to a particular sequence of events, it should be appreciated that changes, additions, and omissions to this sequence can occur without materially affecting the operation of the disclosed embodiments, configuration, and aspects.

[0057] The exemplary systems and methods of this disclosure have been described in relation to POS systems and shipping containers. However, to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure, the preceding description omits a number of known structures and devices. This omission is not to be construed as a limitation of the scope of the claimed disclosure. Specific details are set forth to provide an understanding of the present disclosure. It should, however, be appreciated that the present disclosure may be practiced in a variety of ways beyond the specific detail set forth herein.

[0058] A number of variations and modifications of the disclosure can be used. It would be possible to provide for some features of the disclosure without providing others.

[0059] References in the specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an example embodiment,” “some embodiments,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in conjunction with one embodiment, it is submitted that the description of such feature, structure, or characteristic may apply to any other embodiment unless so stated and / or except as will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art from the description. The present disclosure, in various embodiments, configurations, and aspects, includes components, methods, processes, systems and / or apparatus substantially as depicted and described herein, including various embodiments, subcombinations, and subsets thereof. Those of skill in the art will understand how to make and use the systems and methods disclosed herein after understanding the present disclosure. The present disclosure, in various embodiments, configurations, and aspects, includes providing devices and processes in the absence of items not depicted and / orAtty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT described herein or in various embodiments, configurations, or aspects hereof, including in the absence of such items as may have been used in previous devices or processes, e.g., for improving performance, achieving ease, and / or reducing cost of implementation.

[0060] The foregoing discussion of the disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. The foregoing is not intended to limit the disclosure to the form or forms disclosed herein. In the foregoing Detailed Description for example, various features of the disclosure are grouped together in one or more embodiments, configurations, or aspects for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. The features of the embodiments, configurations, or aspects of the disclosure may be combined in alternate embodiments, configurations, or aspects other than those discussed above. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed disclosure requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment, configuration, or aspect. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate preferred embodiment of the disclosure.

[0061] Moreover, though the description of the disclosure has included description of one or more embodiments, configurations, or aspects and certain variations and modifications, other variations, combinations, and modifications are within the scope of the disclosure, e.g., as may be within the skill and knowledge of those in the art, after understanding the present disclosure. It is intended to obtain rights, which include alternative embodiments, configurations, or aspects to the extent permitted, including alternate, interchangeable and / or equivalent structures, functions, ranges, or steps to those claimed, whether or not such alternate, interchangeable and / or equivalent structures, functions, ranges, or steps are disclosed herein, and without intending to publicly dedicate any patentable subject matter.

[0062] Exemplary aspects are directed to a refrigerated POS container system, comprising: a shipping container comprising an interior space that is separated from an exterior space by a housing; a refrigerator that controls a temperature inside an environmentally controlled space of the interior space of the refrigerated POS container system; a storage area arranged inside the environmentally controlled space, the storage area being configured to store one or more beverage containers therein; a container conveyor arranged inside the environmentally controlled space; a container opening mechanism arranged inside the environmentally controlled space; a container transferAtty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT system arranged inside the environmentally controlled space, the container transfer system configured to transfer at least one beverage container of the one or more beverage containers from the container conveyor to the container opening mechanism; and a vending / dispensing system that is arranged adjacent the container opening mechanism, the vending / dispensing system configured to move the at least one beverage container from the environmentally controlled space to a dispense area of the housing at an exterior of the housing.

[0063] Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the container opening mechanism is configured to open the at least one beverage container such that the at least one beverage container cannot be resealed after being opened. Any one or more of the above aspects include further comprising: a display device arranged adjacent an exterior surface of the housing; a processor coupled to the display device; and a memory storage device coupled with and readable by the processor and storing therein instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive, via the display device, an input for a beverage dispense request identifying the at least one beverage container; transfer, via the container transfer system in response to receiving the beverage dispense request, the at least one beverage container to the container opening mechanism; open, via the container opening mechanism, the at least one beverage container; and dispense, via the vending / dispensing system, the at least one beverage container to the dispense area of the housing. Any one or more of the above aspects include further comprising: an image sensor coupled with the processor, the image sensor arranged adjacent the exterior surface of the housing and configured to capture images in proximity to the refrigerated POS container system. Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein, prior to transferring the at least one beverage to the container opening mechanism, the instructions further cause the processor to: determine that the beverage dispense request is associated with a beverage that is age restricted; determine, based on images captured by the image sensor, an age of a purchaser associated with the beverage dispense request; and determine, based on the age of the purchaser that the beverage that is age restricted is allowed for purchase. Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein, prior to receiving the input for the beverage dispense request, the instructions further cause the processor to: render, via the display device, a digital version of a salesperson that interacts with a purchaser when selecting the at least one beverage container. Any one or more of the above aspects further comprising: a wireless payment device that is configured to receive payment for the at least one beverage container prior to transferring the at least oneAtty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT beverage container to the container opening mechanism. Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein, the wireless payment device is at least one of a NFC pay station, a tap-to-pay station, a proximity -based wireless communication station, and a credit card reader. Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the housing includes a plurality of fork lift pockets configured to receive lifting forks of a moving device. Any one or more of the above aspects further comprising: a generator that is configured to output voltage in at least one of AC and DC to at least one of the refrigerator and the vending / dispensing system such that the refrigerated POS container system is capable of operating independently of externally supplied power.

[0064] Exemplary aspects are directed to a refrigerated POS container system, comprising: a container comprising an interior space that is separated from an exterior space of the refrigerated POS container system by a housing; a container opening mechanism arranged inside the interior space of the container, wherein the container opening mechanism is configured to open a beverage container such that the beverage container cannot be resealed after being opened; a container transfer system arranged inside the interior space of the container, wherein the container transfer system is configured to transfer at least one beverage container in the interior space to the container opening mechanism; and a vending / dispensing system arranged adjacent the container opening mechanism, wherein the vending / dispensing system is configured to move the at least one beverage container from the interior space to an externally accessible area of the housing after the at least one beverage container is opened by the container opening mechanism.

[0065] Any one or more of the above aspects further comprising: an environmentally controlled space disposed inside the interior space, wherein the environmentally controlled space is configured to store one or more beverage containers at a controlled temperature; and a refrigerator that controls a temperature inside the environmentally controlled space such that the one or more beverage containers are maintained at the controlled temperature. Any one or more of the above aspects further comprising: a container conveyor arranged at least partially inside the interior space, wherein the container conveyor is arranged to move the one or more beverage containers from one point inside the container to another point inside the container. Any one or more of the above aspects further comprising: a display device arranged adjacent an exterior surface of the housing; a processor coupled to the display device; and a memory storage device coupled with and readable by the processor and storing therein instructions that, when executed by theAtty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT processor, cause the processor to: receive, via the display device, an input for a beverage dispense request identifying the at least one beverage container; transfer, via the container transfer system in response to receiving the beverage dispense request, the at least one beverage container to the container opening mechanism; open, via the container opening mechanism, the at least one beverage container; and dispense, via the vending / dispensing system, the at least one beverage container to the externally accessible area of the housing. Any one or more of the above aspects further comprising: a wireless payment device that is configured to receive payment for the at least one beverage container prior to transferring the at least one beverage container to the container opening mechanism.

[0066] Exemplary aspects are directed to a method for dispensing at least one beverage container from a refrigerated POS container system, comprising: receiving, via a display device of the refrigerated POS container system, an input for a beverage dispense request identifying the at least one beverage container; transferring, via a container transfer system arranged inside a housing of the refrigerated POS container system in response to receiving the beverage dispense request, the at least one beverage container to a container opening mechanism arranged inside the refrigerated POS container system; opening, via the container opening mechanism, the at least one beverage container such that the at least one beverage container cannot be resealed after being opened; and dispensing, via a vending / dispensing system of the refrigerated POS container system, the at least one beverage container to an externally accessible dispense area of the housing.

[0067] Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein, prior to transferring the at least one beverage container to the container opening mechanism, the method comprises: determining that the beverage dispense request is associated with a beverage that is age- restricted; determining, based on images captured by an image sensor associated with the refrigerated POS container system, an age of a purchaser associated with the beverage dispense request; and determining, based on the age of the purchaser that the beverage that is age-restricted is allowed for purchase. Any one or more of the above aspects further comprising: rendering, via the display device, a digital version of a salesperson that interacts with a purchaser when selecting the at least one beverage container. Any one or more of the above aspects wherein, prior to transferring the at least one beverage container to the container opening mechanism, the method comprises: receiving, via a wireless payment device, payment for the at least one beverage: Any one or more of the above aspects wherein opening the at least one beverage container comprises punching an opening in a cap of the at least one beverage container.Atty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT

[0068] Any one or more of the above aspects / embodiments as substantially disclosed herein.

[0069] Any one or more of the aspects / embodiments as substantially disclosed herein optionally in combination with any one or more other aspects / embodiments as substantially disclosed herein.

[0070] One or means adapted to perform any one or more of the above aspects / embodiments as substantially disclosed herein.

[0071] Any one or more of the features disclosed herein.

[0072] Any one or more of the features as substantially disclosed herein.

[0073] Any one or more of the features as substantially disclosed herein in combination with any one or more other features as substantially disclosed herein.

[0074] Any one of the aspects / features / embodiments in combination with any one or more other aspects / features / embodiments.

[0075] Use of any one or more of the aspects or features as disclosed herein.

[0076] It is to be appreciated that any feature described herein can be claimed in combination with any other feature(s) as described herein, regardless of whether the features come from the same described embodiment.

[0077] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “include,” “including,” “includes,” “comprise,” “comprises,” and / or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0078] The term “a” or “an” entity refers to one or more of that entity. As such, the terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more,” and “at least one” can be used interchangeably herein. It is also to be noted that the terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” can be used interchangeably.

[0079] The phrases “at least one,” “one or more,” “or,” and “and / or” are open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. For example, each of the expressions “at least one of A, B and C,” “at least one of A, B, or C,” “one or more of A, B, and C,” “one or more of A, B, or C,” and “A, B, and / or C” means A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B, and C together.Atty Docket No. 4064-398-PCTWhen each one of A, B, and C in the above expressions refers to an element, such as X, Y, and Z, or a class of elements, such as XI -Xn, Yl-Ym, and Zl-Zo, the phrase is intended to refer to a single element selected from X, Y, and Z, a combination of elements selected from the same class (e.g., XI and X2) as well as a combination of elements selected from two or more classes (e.g., Y1 and Zo).

[0080] The term “automatic” and variations thereof, as used herein, refers to any process or operation, which is typically continuous or semi-continuous, done without material human input when the process or operation is performed. However, a process or operation can be automatic, even though performance of the process or operation uses material or immaterial human input, if the input is received before performance of the process or operation. Human input is deemed to be material if such input influences how the process or operation will be performed. Human input that consents to the performance of the process or operation is not deemed to be “material.”

[0081] The terms “determine,” “calculate,” “compute,” and variations thereof, as used herein, are used interchangeably and include any type of methodology, process, mathematical operation, or technique.

[0082] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and this disclosure.

[0083] It should be understood that every maximum numerical limitation given throughout this disclosure is deemed to include each and every lower numerical limitation as an alternative, as if such lower numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Every minimum numerical limitation given throughout this disclosure is deemed to include each and every higher numerical limitation as an alternative, as if such higher numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Every numerical range given throughout this disclosure is deemed to include each and every narrower numerical range that falls within such broader numerical range, as if such narrower numerical ranges were all expressly written herein.

Claims

Atty Docket No. 4064-398-PCTCLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A refrigerated point of sale (“POS”) container system, comprising: a shipping container comprising an interior space that is separated from an exterior space by a housing; a refrigerator that controls a temperature inside an environmentally controlled space of the interior space of the refrigerated POS container system; a storage area arranged inside the environmentally controlled space, the storage area being configured to store one or more beverage containers therein; a container conveyor arranged inside the environmentally controlled space; a container opening mechanism arranged inside the environmentally controlled space; a container transfer system arranged inside the environmentally controlled space, the container transfer system configured to transfer at least one beverage container of the one or more beverage containers from the container conveyor to the container opening mechanism; and a vending / dispensing system that is arranged adjacent the container opening mechanism, the vending / dispensing system configured to move the at least one beverage container from the environmentally controlled space to a dispense area of the housing at an exterior of the housing.

2. The refrigerated POS container system of claim 1, wherein the container opening mechanism is configured to open the at least one beverage container such that the at least one beverage container cannot be resealed after being opened.

3. The refrigerated POS container system of claim 2, further comprising: a display device arranged adjacent an exterior surface of the housing; a processor coupled to the display device; and a memory storage device coupled with and readable by the processor and storing therein instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive, via the display device, an input for a beverage dispense request identifying the at least one beverage container; transfer, via the container transfer system in response to receiving the beverage dispense request, the at least one beverage container to the container opening mechanism;Atty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT open, via the container opening mechanism, the at least one beverage container; and dispense, via the vending / dispensing system, the at least one beverage container to the dispense area of the housing.

4. The refrigerated POS container system of claim 3, further comprising: an image sensor coupled with the processor, the image sensor arranged adjacent the exterior surface of the housing and configured to capture images in proximity to the refrigerated POS container system.

5. The refrigerated POS container system of claim 4, wherein, prior to transferring the at least one beverage container to the container opening mechanism, the instructions further cause the processor to: determine that the beverage dispense request is associated with a beverage that is age restricted; determine, based on images captured by the image sensor, an age of a purchaser associated with the beverage dispense request; and determine, based on the age of the purchaser that the beverage that is age restricted is allowed for purchase.

6. The refrigerated POS container system of claim 4, wherein, prior to receiving the input for the beverage dispense request, the instructions further cause the processor to: render, via the display device, a digital version of a salesperson that interacts with a purchaser when selecting the at least one beverage container.

7. The refrigerated POS container system of claim 4, further comprising: a wireless payment device that is configured to receive payment for the at least one beverage container prior to transferring the at least one beverage container to the container opening mechanism.

8. The refrigerated POS container system of claim 7, wherein the wireless payment device is at least one of a near field communications (“NFC”) pay station, a tap- to-pay station, a proximity -based wireless communication station, and a credit card reader.

9. The refrigerated POS container system of claim 1, wherein the housing includes a plurality of fork lift pockets configured to receive lifting forks of a moving device.

10. The refrigerated POS container system of claim 1, further comprising:Atty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT a generator that is configured to output voltage in at least one of alternating current (“AC”) and direct current (“DC”) to at least one of the refrigerator and the vending / dispensing system such that the refrigerated POS container system is capable of operating independently of externally supplied power.

11. A refrigerated point of sale (“POS”) container system, comprising: a container comprising an interior space that is separated from an exterior space of the refrigerated POS container system by a housing; a container opening mechanism arranged inside the interior space of the container, wherein the container opening mechanism is configured to open a beverage container such that the beverage container cannot be resealed after being opened; a container transfer system arranged inside the interior space of the container, wherein the container transfer system is configured to transfer at least one beverage container in the interior space to the container opening mechanism; and a vending / dispensing system arranged adjacent the container opening mechanism, wherein the vending / dispensing system is configured to move the at least one beverage container from the interior space to an externally accessible area of the housing after the at least one beverage container is opened by the container opening mechanism.

12. The refrigerated POS container system of claim 11, further comprising: an environmentally controlled space disposed inside the interior space, wherein the environmentally controlled space is configured to store one or more beverage containers at a controlled temperature; and a refrigerator that controls a temperature inside the environmentally controlled space such that the one or more beverage containers are maintained at the controlled temperature.

13. The refrigerated POS container system of claim 12, further comprising: a container conveyor arranged at least partially inside the interior space, wherein the container conveyor is arranged to move the one or more beverage containers from one point inside the container to another point inside the container.

14. The refrigerated POS container system of claim 13, further comprising: a display device arranged adjacent an exterior surface of the housing; a processor coupled to the display device; and a memory storage device coupled with and readable by the processor and storing therein instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to:Atty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT receive, via the display device, an input for a beverage dispense request identifying the at least one beverage container; transfer, via the container transfer system in response to receiving the beverage dispense request, the at least one beverage container to the container opening mechanism; open, via the container opening mechanism, the at least one beverage container; and dispense, via the vending / dispensing system, the at least one beverage container to the externally accessible area of the housing.

15. The refrigerated POS container system of claim 14, further comprising: a wireless payment device that is configured to receive payment for the at least one beverage container prior to transferring the at least one beverage container to the container opening mechanism.

16. A method for dispensing at least one beverage container from a refrigerated point of sale (“POS”) container system, comprising: receiving, via a display device of the refrigerated POS container system, an input for a beverage dispense request identifying the at least one beverage container; transferring, via a container transfer system arranged inside a housing of the refrigerated POS container system in response to receiving the beverage dispense request, the at least one beverage container to a container opening mechanism arranged inside the refrigerated POS container system; opening, via the container opening mechanism, the at least one beverage container such that the at least one beverage container cannot be resealed after being opened; and dispensing, via a vending / dispensing system of the refrigerated POS container system, the at least one beverage container to an externally accessible dispense area of the housing.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein, prior to transferring the at least one beverage container to the container opening mechanism, the method comprises: determining that the beverage dispense request is associated with a beverage that is age-restricted; determining, based on images captured by an image sensor associated with the refrigerated POS container system, an age of a purchaser associated with the beverage dispense request; andAtty Docket No. 4064-398-PCT determining, based on the age of the purchaser that the beverage that is age- restricted is allowed for purchase.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: rendering, via the display device, a digital version of a salesperson that interacts with a purchaser when selecting the at least one beverage container.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein, prior to transferring the at least one beverage container to the container opening mechanism, the method comprises: receiving, via a wireless payment device, payment for the at least one beverage.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein opening the at least one beverage container comprises punching an opening in a cap of the at least one beverage container.

Images