Single DC Motor Dispensing Mechanism for Vending Machine Cost Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vending machines with multiple product storage passages require multiple AC solenoids for product dispensing devices, increasing manufacturing costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A product dispensing device configuration using a single DC motor as a drive source, coupled with a driving force applying unit that alternates between two product discharging mechanisms, allowing for efficient discharge of products from adjacent storage passages without the need for multiple drive sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple AC solenoids are used for each product discharging device in multiple product storage passages, then each passage can independently dispense products, but manufacturing costs and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple product discharging devices into a single integrated unit that serves multiple product storage passages. Instead of having separate AC solenoids for each passage, one unified discharging device with a single drive source controls product discharge across multiple passages through coordinated movement of pedal members, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining dispensing reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The single product discharging device is designed to perform multiple functions by serving different product storage passages. The device can selectively discharge products from various passages through the coordinated action of upper and lower pedal members that can independently advance and retract, allowing one drive source to control multiple dispensing operations
2Ease of operation
If multiple AC solenoids are used for each product discharging device, then independent control of each passage is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple drive sources into a single drive source that controls a unified product discharging device. This consolidation reduces the number of components that need to be manufactured and assembled, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while the device maintains the capability to independently control product discharge from multiple storage passages through its multi-functional pedal mechanism
3Device complexity
If a single drive source controls multiple product discharging devices, then device complexity and cost are reduced, but the system must efficiently alternate between adjacent storage passages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action through the alternating operation of upper and lower pedal members controlled by a single drive source. The drive source alternates between advancing the upper pedal member to discharge products from one storage passage and then the lower pedal member to discharge products from an adjacent passage, creating a rhythmic, coordinated discharge pattern that maintains productivity while using fewer components
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic control where the single drive source adaptively switches between controlling different pedal members based on which product storage passage requires discharge. This dynamic allocation of the drive source's output enables efficient alternation between adjacent passages, optimizing productivity without requiring multiple dedicated drive sources for each passage
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration reduces manufacturing costs and simplifies the system by allowing a single drive source to manage multiple product discharging mechanisms, enhancing operational flexibility and reducing the risk of misinterpretation of non-discharge situations.
Implementation Method 1
a DC motor serving as a drive source; and a driving force applying unit configured to apply a driving force from the DC motor
Data Source
AI summary
A product dispensing device includes: one product discharging device; and the other product discharging device. The one product discharging device includes: a DC motor serving as a drive source; and a driving force applying unit configured to apply a driving force from the DC motor when a discharge command is issued. The driving force applying unit includes: an output gear configured to rotate about a central axis of the output gear according to a driving state of the DC motor; an arm member configured to rotate in accordance with a rotation direction of the output gear when the output gear is rotated; and a link lever member configured such that the one product discharging device and the other product discharging device are alternatively driven in accordance with a rotation of the arm member.