Automated Vending Machine Planogram Programming via Barcode Scanning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Manual planogram programming in vending machines is time-consuming and error-prone, and existing methods require detailed knowledge of vending machine configurations, limiting efficient product and price updates.
Innovation Solution
Automated planogram programming using unique tray, product, and price barcodes, where route drivers scan barcodes with a USB-connected scanner to quickly and accurately program vending machines, allowing for flexible pricing and easy product updates without manual data entry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual planogram programming is used, then detailed control over product configuration is achieved, but programming time and error rate increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical programming operations with an automated barcode scanning system. The route driver uses a handheld scanner to read barcodes on products and trays, automatically capturing product identification, location, and pricing information. This substitution of manual data entry with automated optical scanning eliminates typing errors, reduces programming time, and maintains high accuracy without requiring detailed knowledge of vending machine configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses barcode labels as copies of product and tray identification information. Instead of manually entering product details, the system scans barcode copies that contain encoded information about products, trays, and prices. This copying approach allows rapid data acquisition without requiring the route driver to recall or type configuration details, thereby reducing time and errors.
2Productivity
If pre-configuration via enterprise software is used, then programming speed improves, but device complexity and requirement for detailed machine knowledge increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the vending machine system to self-configure through barcode scanning. The route driver simply scans barcodes on products and trays, and the system automatically captures the planogram data without requiring pre-loaded configuration knowledge. The machine essentially programs itself based on the physical arrangement of barcoded items, eliminating the need for complex pre-configuration while maintaining high programming speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces barcode labels as an intermediary between the physical product arrangement and the digital configuration system. These barcodes serve as a universal language that bridges the gap between manual operations and automated data capture, allowing the system to automatically interpret product and tray configurations without requiring complex machine knowledge or pre-configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional programming methods are used, then complete product and price configuration is achieved, but adaptability for dynamic updates during restocking is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic programming system where prices and product configurations can be updated in real-time during restocking operations. The route driver can scan barcodes to update prices for individual products or entire trays, allowing the system to adapt to changing pricing strategies without requiring system-wide reconfiguration. This dynamic capability enables flexible price adjustments while minimizing time loss during restocking visits.
Data Source
AI summary
Automatic planogram programming for a glass front snack or cold drink vending machine is accomplished using tray, product and price barcodes, each preferably a different type of barcode. Trays within the vending machine are labeled with unique barcodes, and a set of price barcodes for predetermined prices is provided together with a USB-connected scanner. The barcode label affixed to any tray is scanned by the route driver. The UPC/EAN barcodes on products are then scanned for each selection progressing across the tray, together with a price barcode for the first selection and each subsequent selection having a different price from the prior selection on the tray. Planogram data for the tray may be reviewed and corrected on a customer interface display for the vending machine before moving on to another tray, with the trays programmed in any order. The planogram for the entire vending machine is quickly and accurately programmed.