Reusable Package Exchange Vending Machine With Slot Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vending machines lack an efficient and intuitive mechanism for exchanging empty reusable packages with identical full packages, particularly in environments where user-friendly and secure package exchange is required.
Innovation Solution
A cabinet-based vending machine with an insertion slot for empty packages and a dispensing slot for full packages, utilizing a conveyor system and identification mechanism to ensure secure and efficient exchange, along with payment integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional vending machine design is used with separate insertion and dispensing slots on different walls, then the machine can process packages, but the operation becomes complex and requires detailed instructions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the insertion slot and dispensing slot into the same wall surface, allowing users to insert empty packages and receive full packages through a unified interface. This merging of previously separate functions into a single location simplifies the user operation and eliminates the need for complex multi-wall navigation and detailed instructions.
2Reliability
If multiple sensors and cameras are added to verify package authenticity and prevent fraud, then security improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a reference in the dispensing slot that serves multiple functions: it identifies the correct package type, verifies authenticity, and guides the dispensing mechanism. This multi-functional reference element provides security and verification without requiring a complex array of separate sensors and cameras, thus maintaining reliability while controlling device complexity.
3Extent of automation
If a conveyor system is added to transport packages from insertion to dispensing slot, then automation improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions both the insertion slot and dispensing slot at the same wall surface, creating an equipotential arrangement where packages can be transferred with minimal vertical or horizontal displacement. This reduces the complexity of the conveyor system by eliminating the need for complex elevation changes or long-distance transport mechanisms, while still achieving automated package exchange.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an automatic machine for exchanging empty reusable packages for identical full packages filled with contents specific to the type of packaging. The automatic vending machine according to the invention is a cabinet with rectangular walls. In the upper part of the front wall (1) there is a insertion slot (2) and in the lower part of the front wall (1) there is a dispensing slot (3). A skewed conveyor belt (4) for gravitational transport of packages from the conveyor belt (2) to the dispensing conveyor belt (3) is provided inside the cabinet between the conveyor belt (2) and the dispensing conveyor belt (3). A reference (5) is provided in the conveyor belt (2) for comparing the inserted package (b) with the original. The reference is positioned at the end of a horizontal slider (6), which moves along a horizontal guide (7) on the guide bed (8). In the dispensing slot (3), a horizontal slider (12), with a length less than the length of the package (b), is positioned on a horizontal guide (11). At the end of the horizontal slide (12), there is an impact absorber (13) for contacting the end of the dispensed package (b). The slider (12) with the dispensed package (b) positioned thereon is driven by a dispensing actuator (15) from an inner end position at the end of the guide bed (14). The dispensing actuator (15) communicates with the payment terminal similarly to the insertion actuator (9). In another version, between the insertion slot (2) and the dispensing slot (3) there is a mechanical conveyor belt (4) with compartments for receiving empty packages and accommodating full packages.