JP2010118009A - Vending machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a vending machine showing commodity grouped random selling operation, drawing the interest by visual effect and further motivating the purchase. <P>SOLUTION: Different kinds of commodities are stored in a plurality of commodity columns 4 arranged in a plurality of stages and lines. For example, commodities stored in the same stage of the commodity columns 4 are grouped as one commodity group. When a customer operates a commodity selecting button 14 and selects the commodity group, one commodity column 4 is randomly selected from the commodity columns 4 of the corresponding storage group. A bucket unit 20 is moved to the position of the selected one commodity column 4 in a wandering manner. The bucket unit 20 having received the commodity is conveyed to a commodity dispensing slot 5 to dispense the commodity. The operation can be seen from the front of the vending machine. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a vending machine that enables random sale by product group and that allows the operation until the product is paid out to be viewed from the front of the vending machine.

In the conventional vending machine, one or a group of product selection buttons corresponds to one type of product, and when the product selection button is pressed, from the product column storing the product corresponding to the product selection button. Products are paid out, and it is not possible to make a sales form with a strong game characteristic in which one product is randomly paid out from a plurality of types of products. However, depending on the product, there is a case where such a sales form with strong game characteristics is required. Therefore, for example, there is a vending machine provided with a random sale button (mystery button) separately from a normal product selection button, and by pressing this button, a product is randomly dispensed from a plurality of types of products. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-289372

  However, even if a product is paid out randomly from a plurality of types of products, in the case of the above vending machine, it will be paid out randomly from all types of products to be sold. It is not possible to deal with a sales form (random sale by product group) in which a plurality of product groups are set as one product group as one product group and sold at random for each product group.

  Therefore, there is a vending machine in which a plurality of products are set as one product group, and when a product group is selected, one product is randomly selected from the product group and the product is paid out. (See Japanese Patent Application Nos. 2007-330863 and 2007-330867). However, in this vending machine, products in one product group are randomly stored in advance in one product column (product storage unit), and when a customer selects a product group, the products in that product group are stored. Products are thrown out as if they were selected at random from one product column, or one product column stores one type of product, and multiple columns are set as one storage group for each product group Then, when the customer selects a product group, the control unit randomly selects one product from the products in the product group, and whether the product is thrown out from the product column in which the product is stored. In any case, the entire process of selecting and dispensing one product from the selected product group is not visible inside the vending machine. Will be performed in place, only the uniform dispensing operation is carried out, during which time, there is no change on the appearance of the vending machine itself. After the customer selects a product group, the customer simply waits for the product to be dispensed and is not visually interesting.

  It is an object of the present invention to provide a vending machine capable of performing random sales by product group, visually recognizing the sales operation of the random sales by product group, visually arousing interest, and increasing purchase motivation. To do.

  The vending machine according to the present invention includes a merchandise payout exit from which merchandise is dispensed, a plurality of merchandise storage sections that store the merchandise in a visible manner from the front of the vending machine, and a takeout means for taking out the merchandise stored in each merchandise storage section And receiving means for receiving the product taken out by the take-out means by moving to the receiving position corresponding to each product storage section so that it can be seen from the front of the vending machine, and transporting the receiving means from the front of the vending machine so as to be visible Conveying means for moving to a receiving position corresponding to each product storage unit and a delivery position for delivering the product to a product delivery outlet, and a plurality of product storage units as at least one storage group for each product group, or as a plurality of storage groups The group setting means to be set, the operation section for selection operation, and the storage group set by the group setting means triggered by the operation of the operation section. Group selection means for selecting a group, product storage section selection means for selecting one product storage section from among the product storage sections belonging to the storage group selected by the group selection means, and product storage section selection means for receiving A receiving and conveying control means for controlling the conveying means to move to a goods receiving position corresponding to the goods receiving section selected by the product storing section, and the goods storing section in a state where the receiving means is stopped at the goods receiving position of the selected goods storing section. A take-out control means for controlling the take-out means to take out the product from the product, and a pay-out transport control means for controlling the transport means to move the receiving means for receiving the product in the selected product storage section to the product take-out port. And

  By configuring the vending machine in this way, a plurality of product storage units are set as one storage group for each product group, and when a storage group is selected, any of the plurality of product storage units belonging to the storage group is selected. A sales form with high gameability (random sale by product group) that allows such products to be paid out becomes possible, and one product storage unit is selected from the storage group selected by operating the operation unit Since the operation until the product is taken out can be seen from the front of the vending machine, the customer is visually attracted and the purchase motivation is further increased.

  In this vending machine, the receiving means may have a bucket that can receive the goods taken out and dropped by the taking-out means.

  By having such a bucket, the receiving means can surely receive the goods with a simple structure and has a large and conspicuous shape, so that the movement can be visually recognized and the visual effect is enhanced.

  In this vending machine, the product storage unit selecting unit selects one product storage unit from among the product storage units belonging to the selected storage group as soon as one storage group is selected by the group selection unit. Then, the receiving and conveying control means may control the conveying means so as to start the movement of the receiving means in response to the selection of one product storage unit by the product storage unit selecting means.

  In this case, when the operation unit is operated, the storage group is selected and the product storage unit is immediately selected. Therefore, the customer can concentrate on following the operation without taking time and effort.

  Further, in this vending machine, the receiving and conveying control means controls the conveying means so as to start the movement of the receiving means in response to the start of the operation of the operation section, and the product storage section selecting means finishes or restarts the operation of the operating section. In response to the operation, one product storage unit may be selected from the product storage units belonging to the storage group selected by the group selection unit.

  In this case, when the operation unit is operated, the receiving means starts moving with the start of the operation, but at that time, only the storage group is selected, the product storage unit is not yet selected, and if the operation unit is operated as it is, In the meantime, the position where the receiving means finally moves is not determined. Then, when the operation is finished or when the operation is once finished and then re-operated, the product storage unit is selected, and the final destination of the receiving means is determined. Therefore, a feeling that the operation state of the operation unit becomes a factor for selecting the product storage unit is generated, and the game performance is further enhanced.

  Also, in this vending machine, the receiving and conveying control means corresponds to a plurality of product storage units including other product storage units to the product receiving position corresponding to the product storage unit selected by the product storage unit selection unit. The conveying means may be controlled so as to be finally moved through the midway movement operation of moving to the commodity receiving position.

  In this case, the receiving means eventually moves to the product receiving position corresponding to the selected product storage unit, but performs a midway movement operation to move to the product receiving position corresponding to the plurality of product storage units in the middle. . This midway movement operation is visible from the front of the vending machine and attracts the customer's interest. In particular, the midway movement operation is an operation that appears to move while hesitating (hereinafter, referred to as “stray motion”). , The customer's interest in watching where the final destination is and which products are paid out is further increased, and the willingness to repeat purchases is increased.

  When such an intermediate movement operation is performed, the receiving and conveying control means causes the receiving means to wait until the time after the receiving means starts moving reaches a predetermined time or after the receiving means starts moving. When the number of halfway movements that have moved to the product receiving position corresponding to any of the plurality of product storage units including the product storage unit selected by the product storage unit selection unit and the other product storage units reaches a predetermined number of times, It is preferable that the conveying means is controlled so as to be finally moved to the product receiving position corresponding to the selected product storage unit.

  By doing so, the time that the halfway movement operation lasts is too short to give the customer a frustration because it is too long and the final destination is unknown, before giving a visual effect too short It can be adjusted to an optimal time without the end of a confusing action, and it can visually give a sense of not knowing which product will be paid out, thereby attracting the interest of the customer and increasing the willingness to purchase.

  When such a midway movement operation is performed, the other product storage unit that is the midway movement destination may be a product storage unit that belongs to the storage group selected by the group selection unit.

  In this case, the selected product without giving anxiety that the product other than the selected storage group will be paid out because the midway destination belongs to the same storage group as the final product storage unit. It is possible to visually give customers a sense of not knowing which products will be paid out within a group (storage group), and to increase their willingness to purchase.

  In addition, when the midway movement operation is performed, the vending machine is provided with an arrangement in which the product storage units are arranged in a plurality of stages in the vertical direction and in a plurality of rows in the horizontal direction, and the storage groups set by the group setting unit are the same. It may be a group of product storage units located in a row or in the same row.

  In this way, when the product storage units are provided in a plurality of stages and in a plurality of rows and the storage group is a group of product storage units located in the same stage or the same row, the movement operation including the midway movement operation of the receiving means is a vertical movement or a horizontal movement. Only the movement is performed, the load on the conveying unit is reduced, the life of the conveying unit is extended, and the moving operation of the receiving unit can be easily followed with eyes, which increases visual interest.

  The moving order of the midway moving operation may be determined randomly.

  If the moving order of the midway moving operation is determined at random, it becomes difficult to predict the moving direction of the receiving means, and it is possible to give a stronger visual feeling that it is difficult to know which product will be paid out.

  The moving order of the midway movement operation is reciprocating between the product receiving positions corresponding to the product storage units located at both ends of the row or row where the product storage unit belonging to the storage group selected by the group selection means is located. It may be determined to do.

  If the movement order of the midway movement is such, the midway movement of the receiving means only reciprocates between both ends of one stage or one row, and the control becomes simple and the conveyance means The load is reduced and the life of the conveying means is extended.

  In addition, when the intermediate movement operation is performed, the product storage unit selection unit stores the storage selected by the group selection unit for each storage group based on a selection probability preset for each product storage unit belonging to each storage group. One product storage unit can be selected from the product storage units belonging to the group, and the moving order of the midway movement operation can be determined based on the selection probability for selecting the product storage unit.

  In this way, the product storage unit selection means determines the moving order of the midway movement operation based on the selection probability for selecting one product storage unit from the storage group, thereby simplifying the control. In addition, the probability that the destination of the midway movement operation is the final destination is increased, the sense of incongruity is reduced, and the customer's interest is increased.

  As is apparent from the above description, according to the present invention, when a plurality of product storage units are set as one storage group for each product group and a storage group is selected, a plurality of product storages belonging to the storage group are stored. It is possible to sell a vending machine with high gameability (random sale by product group) that pays out any of the products in the department, and 1 out of the storage groups selected by operating the operation part The operation from when one product storage unit is selected until the product is taken out can be seen from the front of the vending machine, so that the customer's interest can be visually aroused and the willingness to purchase can be further enhanced.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
1-5 has shown the structure of the vending machine of embodiment of this invention. 1 is a front perspective view of a vending machine, FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of a transport mechanism, FIG. 3 is a side view of a product column, FIG. 4 is a control block diagram, and FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of a group setting table in sales operation processing, FIG. 6 is a layout diagram of the product column.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the vending machine is provided with a door 2 that can be opened and closed on the front surface of a vending machine main body 1. The door body 2 is provided with a window portion 3, and a plurality of product columns 4 (product storage portions) are provided inside the vending machine main body 1 so as to store the products so as to be visible from the front of the vending machine through the window portion 3. ) Is provided. In addition, the door 2 is provided with a product discharge outlet 5 through which a product is discharged at a lower side portion of the window portion 3, a coin insertion slot 6 for inserting coins, and a banknote insertion slot for inserting banknotes. 7. A return lever 8 for performing a payout operation for change, a return port 9 for paying change etc., and an amount display unit 10 for displaying the amount of money to be inserted, etc. are provided.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the plurality of product columns 4 are automatically sold in an arrangement in which a plurality of columns are arranged in the vertical direction (five levels in the illustrated example) and a plurality of columns are arranged in the horizontal direction (six columns in the illustrated example). It is provided inside the machine body 1.

  As shown in FIG. 3, each commodity column 4 stores box-like containers P (hereinafter simply referred to as “commodities”) containing commodities arranged in the front-rear direction of the vending machine (the left-right direction in FIG. 3). At the bottom, a column conveyor 11 for conveying products stored side by side in the front-rear direction is provided, and at the rear, the product is moved forward by contacting the back of the last row of products in conjunction with the column conveyor 11. A push-out piece 12 is provided for pushing to the front, and the front part is in contact with the front face of the product in the front row to prevent the drop of the product. A front pressing member 13 that is opened is provided, and the column conveyor 11, the extruded piece 12, and the front pressing member 13 constitute a discharging-type discharging means (throwing means) that takes out a product stored in the product column 4. Yes.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 1, the window portion 3 is provided with one product selection button 14 as an operation unit for selecting operation for selecting a product group (storage group) corresponding to each level. Yes. A numeric keypad may be provided on the front surface of the door body 2, and a product group (storage group) may be selected using the numeric keypad.

  And, inside the door body 2, for receiving and transporting the product taken out from the product column 4 and falling between the front surface of the product column 4 and the inner surface of the door body 2 when the door body 2 is closed. And a bucket unit 20 (receiving means) having a bucket 20a having an open upper surface capable of receiving a product taken out from the product column 4 and falling, and the bucket unit 20 Is moved to the receiving position corresponding to each product column 4 so as to be visible from the front of the vending machine, and the taken-out product is received, and the payout position at which the bucket unit 20 that received the product is paid out to the product payout exit An X-axis conveyor 30 and a Y-axis conveyor 40, which are conveying means for conveying to move to, are disposed.

  The X-axis conveyor 30 is disposed in the conveyance space in the lateral direction so as to cover the entire region in the left-right direction of the window 3 in order to carry and move the bucket unit 20 in the lateral direction (X-axis direction). An endless belt 33 is stretched around a conveyor unit having a driving roller 31 at one end and a driven roller 32 at the other end. The bucket unit 20 is attached and fixed on the belt 33 so that the driving roller 31 rotates forward and backward. Accordingly, the belt 33 moves in the left-right direction, and the bucket unit 20 moves in the left-right direction accordingly.

  An X-axis rotation sensor 34 that detects the number of rotations of the drive roller 31 is attached to the drive roller 31 of the X-axis conveyor 30.

  Further, the Y-axis conveyor 40 is hidden at both sides of the window portion 3 in order to support the X-axis conveyor 30 from the left and right and move the bucket unit 20 in the vertical direction (Y-axis direction) together with the X-axis conveyor 30. Two are provided on the left and right sides of the conveyance space so as to extend over almost the entire vertical direction. An endless belt 43 is stretched on a conveyor unit having a driving roller 41 at one end and a driven roller 42 at the other end. The left and right ends of the conveyor unit of the X-axis conveyor 30 are mounted and fixed on the belts 43 on the left and right sides of the belt 43 so as to keep the X-axis conveyor 30 horizontal and support the two Y-axis conveyors 40. When the driving roller 41 is synchronously rotated forward and backward, the belt 43 moves up and down, and the X-axis conveyor 30 moves up and down accordingly.

  A Y-axis rotation sensor 44 that detects the number of rotations of the drive rollers 41 is attached to the drive rollers 41 of the two Y-axis conveyors 40, respectively.

  In this vending machine, the movement of the bucket unit 20 in the left-right direction and the up-down direction is controlled by rotation control of the drive roller 31 of the X-axis conveyor 30 and the drive roller 41 of the two Y-axis conveyors 40.

  Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 50 includes a memory 51 that is a storage unit that stores each product selection button 14, the column conveyor 11 and the front pressing member 13 of each product column 4, and various setting data. An X-axis conveyor 30 (drive roller 31), two Y-axis conveyors 40 (drive rollers 41), an X-axis rotation sensor 34 that detects the number of rotations of the drive roller 31 of the X-axis conveyor 30, and two Y A Y-axis rotation sensor 44 that detects the rotation speed of each drive roller 41 of the shaft conveyor 40 and a timer 52 that measures time are connected.

  The control unit 50 detects the moving distance by detecting the rotational speed of the driving roller 31 of the X-axis conveyor 30 by the X-axis rotation sensor 34 to control the movement of the bucket unit 20 in the left-right direction, and the Y-axis rotation sensor. The movement distance is detected by detecting the rotational speed of the drive roller 41 of the Y-axis conveyor 40 by 44, and the movement of the bucket unit 20 in the vertical direction is controlled. By this control, the bucket unit 20 can freely move between the product receiving position for receiving the product thrown out slightly in front of each product column 5 and the product outlet 5 located at the lower side of the window 3 side. It is.

  This vending machine groups a plurality of types of products into a plurality of product groups, for example, a set of a plurality of types of products such as series products, and a plurality of product storage units (product columns). 4) is set as one storage group for each product group, and when a storage group is selected, one of a plurality of product storage units (product column 4) belonging to the storage group is paid out. However, different types of products are stored in a plurality of product columns 4 arranged in a plurality of rows and a plurality of rows, for example, a product group in which the products stored in the product column 4 located on the same row are one product group. To be.

  Then, a plurality of product columns 4 are set as one storage group for each product group, and when the customer operates the product selection button 14, the control unit 50 selects a storage group corresponding to the operated product selection button 14. The product column 4 is selected from the product columns 4 belonging to the selected storage group based on a preset selection probability, and the bucket unit 20 is moved to a product receiving position slightly below the product column 4. The product dispensed from the product column 4 is received, the bucket unit 20 is moved to the product delivery outlet 5, and the product is paid out.

  In this example, a plurality of types of products in the same product group are stored in the product column 4 positioned on the same level, and the product column 4 positioned on the same level is set as one storage group. It is also possible to store a plurality of types of products in the same product group in the product column 4 located in the same row, and set the product columns 4 located in the same row as one storage group.

  The control unit 50 constitutes group setting means for setting a plurality of product storage units (product column 4) as one storage group for each product group, and the group setting is triggered by the operation of the operation unit (product selection button 14). A group selection means for selecting one storage group from the storage groups set by the means is configured, and one product is stored from the product storage sections (product column 4) belonging to the storage group selected by the group selection means. The product storage unit selecting means for selecting the product (product column 4) is configured, and the receiving means (bucket unit 20) is moved to the product receiving position corresponding to the product storage unit (product column 4) selected by the product storage unit selecting means. Receiving and conveying control means for controlling the conveying means (the X-axis conveyor 30 and the Y-axis conveyor 40) to be moved is configured, and the receiving means (bucket) The take-out means (column conveyor 11, extrusion piece 12 and so on) to remove the product from the product storage unit (product column 4) in a state where the product unit 20) is stopped at the product receiving position of the selected product storage unit (product column 4). Conveying means for moving the receiving means (bucket unit 20) that receives the product in the selected product storage section (product column 4) to the product delivery outlet 5 is configured as a withdrawal control means for controlling the front presser member 13). The payout conveyance control means which controls (the X-axis conveyor 30 and the Y-axis conveyor 40) is comprised.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the memory 51 stores the group number of the set product group, the column number of the product column 4 belonging to the storage group corresponding to the product group of the group number, and the product group (storage group). The button number of the product selection button 14 for selection, and the probability (selection probability) that each product column 4 is selected by the product storage unit selection means configured by the control unit 50 from the storage group to which the product column 4 belongs. Are associated with each other and stored as a group setting table.

  Prior to selling a product, the vending machine includes a group number for each product group, a column number for the product column 4 of the corresponding storage group, a button number for the product selection button 14, and a corresponding storage group. The group setting table (FIG. 5) is set by associating with the selection probabilities of the respective product columns 4, and stored in the memory 51. The data in these tables is input using a remote controller, personal computer, storage medium, or the like.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 6, different types of products are stored in the product column 4 provided in an arrangement of 5 rows in the vertical direction and 6 rows in the horizontal direction, and stored in the product column 4 located on the same row. When the product is sold as one product group, the group numbers of the product groups corresponding to each level are set as A to E, and the product column 4 positioned in each level from the top level is set to one As storage groups, the column numbers of the product columns 4 belonging to each storage group are set as A1 to A6, B1 to B6, C1 to C6, D1 to D6, E1 to E6, and the button numbers of the product selection buttons 14 in each stage are set. Set a to e. For each product group, for example, for the product group with group number A, first, the group number A, and the column numbers A1 to A6 of the product column 4 belonging to the storage group corresponding to the product group with the group number A, The group setting table is set and registered (stored in the memory 51) in association with the button number a of the product selection button 14 at the level (topmost level) where the product column 4 of the column numbers A1 to A6 is located. In addition, the selection probability in the storage group of each commodity column 4 of the column numbers A1 to A6 is individually input with a remote controller or the like to set and register the group setting table (stored in the memory 51). Hereinafter, the group setting table is similarly set and registered for the product groups having the group numbers B to E. This completes the setting for random sales by product group.

Next, the sales operation control by the control unit 50 after the setting is completed will be described.
7 to 15 show the sales operation control of the vending machine of this embodiment. 7 is a flowchart showing a first example of sales operation control, FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a second example of sales operation control, FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a third example of sales operation control, and FIG. 10 is a sales operation. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a stray operation pattern in the third example of the sales operation control, and FIG. 12 is a stray in the third example of the sales operation control. FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating another example of the operation process, and FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of another example of the lost operation pattern in the third example of the sales operation control. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a fourth example of sales operation control, and FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram of a stray operation setting table in sales operation control.

(First example of sales operation control)
In the first example of the sales operation control shown in FIG. 7, when a product group (storage group) is selected by operating the product selection button 14 (operation unit), the product column 4 ( Vending machine for controlling one product column 4 based on a selection probability preset for each product group 4 belonging to each storage group from the product storage unit) It is determined whether or not money has been inserted (step S101), and when money is inserted, it is determined whether or not the product selection button 14 (button) has been pressed (whether or not a product group has been selected) (step S102). . When money is inserted, the control unit 50 displays the amount of money on the money amount display 10.

  When the product selection button 14 is pressed (button press), the group number of the product group corresponding to the pressed product selection button 14 is read from the group setting table (for example, FIG. 5) stored in the memory 51. From the product columns 4 belonging to the storage group corresponding to the product group, the product column 4 (throwing column) to which the product is to be thrown out is selected based on the selection probability set in the group setting table, and the memory 51 (Step S103).

  Then, by controlling the X-axis conveyor 30 and the Y-axis conveyor 40, the bucket unit 20 is moved from the selected product column 4 (throwing column) to the product receiving position (throwing position) for receiving the product (step S104). The front pressing member 13 of the product column 4 is retracted from the front surface of the product column 4 and the column conveyor 11 is moved by the width of one product, and is arranged on the front surface of the product column 4 by the column conveyor 11 and the extruded piece 12. The merchandise that is being sold is thrown out to the front of the merchandise column 4 (step S105). When the bucket unit 20 moves to the dispensing position of the selected product column 4, the control unit 50 operates a notifying means such as a buzzer or a voice so as to notify that the product is to be thrown out.

  And the bucket unit 20 which received the thrown-out goods is conveyed to the goods discharge outlet 5 by control of the X-axis conveyor 30 and the Y-axis conveyor 40, and goods are paid out (step S106).

  Then, it is determined whether or not there is a change (step S107). If there is a change, the change is returned to the change outlet 9 (step S108).

  When the merchandise is paid out in this manner, the merchandise is taken out from the bucket unit 20 conveyed to the merchandise payout exit 5, and the change is taken out, the sale is finished and the sales standby state is entered.

  If the product selection button 14 is not operated even after a predetermined time has elapsed since the money was inserted, it is determined that there is no intention to purchase the product, and the inserted money is returned to the change payment outlet 9. (Step S109).

  In this example (first example of sales operation control), the product storage unit selection unit configured by the control unit 50 immediately belongs to the selected storage group when one storage group is selected by the group selection unit. Product storage unit selection means for selecting one product storage unit (product column 4) from the product storage unit (product column 4), and the receiving and transport control means configured by the control unit 50 includes product storage unit selection means. The receipt means (bucket unit 20) starts to move when one commodity storage section is selected by the above-described operation, and the receipt means (bucket unit 20) is selected by the product storage section selection means (product column) It is a receiving and conveying control means for controlling the conveying means (the X-axis conveyor 30 and the Y-axis conveyor 40) so as to move to the commodity receiving position corresponding to 4).

(Second example of sales operation control)
In the second example of the sales operation control shown in FIG. 8, when a product group (storage group) is selected by operating the product selection button 14 (operation unit), the bucket unit 20 (receiving means) starts to move, Upon completion (or re-operation) of the operation of the product selection button 14, the product column 4 (product storage unit) belonging to the selected storage group is preliminarily stored for each product column 4 belonging to each storage group. Controls to select one product column 4 based on the set selection probability, and determines whether or not money has been inserted into the vending machine (step S201). It is determined whether or not the selection button 14 (button) has been pressed (whether or not a product group has been selected) (step S202). When money is inserted, the control unit 50 displays the amount of money on the money amount display 10.

  When the product selection button 14 is pressed (button pressing), at least one of the X-axis conveyor 30 and the Y-axis conveyor 40 is moved to start the movement of the bucket unit 20 (step S203).

  Then, it is determined whether or not the pressing operation of the product selection button 14 has ended (button release) (or whether or not the product selection button has been pressed again) (step S204), and when the button is released (or operated again), the memory The group number of the product group corresponding to the pressed product selection button 14 is read from the group setting table (for example, FIG. 5) stored in 51, and the product column 4 belonging to the storage group corresponding to the product group is read out. Based on the selection probability set in the group setting table, the product column 4 (throwing column) on which the product is to be thrown out is selected and stored in the memory 51 (step S205).

  The X-axis conveyor 30 and the Y-axis conveyor 40 are controlled to move the bucket unit 20 from the selected product column 4 (throwing column) to a product receiving position (throwing position) for receiving the product (step S206). The front pressing member 13 of the product column 4 is retracted from the front surface of the product column 4 and the column conveyor 11 is moved by the width of one product, and is arranged on the front surface of the product column 4 by the column conveyor 11 and the extruded piece 12. The merchandise to be thrown out is forwarded to the front of the merchandise column 4 (step S207). In addition, when the bucket unit 20 moves to the dispensing position of the selected product column 4, the control unit 50 operates a notifying unit such as a buzzer or a voice so as to notify that the product is to be dispensed.

  And the bucket unit 20 which received the thrown-out goods is conveyed to the goods discharge outlet 5 by control of the X-axis conveyor 30 and the Y-axis conveyor 40, and goods are paid out (step S208).

  Then, it is determined whether or not there is a change (step S209). If there is a change, the change is returned to the change payment outlet 9 (step S210).

  When the merchandise is paid out in this manner, the merchandise is taken out from the bucket unit 20 conveyed to the merchandise payout exit 5, and the change is taken out, the sale is finished and the sales standby state is entered.

  If the product selection button 14 is not operated even after a predetermined time has elapsed since the money was inserted, it is determined that there is no intention to purchase the product, and the inserted money is returned to the change payment outlet 9. (Step S211).

  In this example (second example of sales operation control), the receiving and conveying control means configured by the control unit 50 moves the receiving means (bucket unit 20) triggered by the start of operation of the operation unit (product selection button 14). The conveying means (X-axis conveyor 30 and Y-axis conveyor) are moved so as to move the receiving means (bucket unit 20) to the product receiving position corresponding to the product storage section (product column 4) selected by the product storage section selection means. 40), the product storage unit selection unit configured by the control unit 50 is selected by the group selection unit when the operation unit (product selection button 14) is finished or re-operated. Product storage unit selection means for selecting one product storage unit (product column 4) from among the product storage units (product column 4) belonging to the storage group.

(Third example of sales operation control)
In the third example of the sales operation control shown in FIG. 9, when a product group (storage group) is selected by operating the product selection button 14 (operation unit), the product column 4 ( From the product storage unit), one product column 4 is selected based on a selection probability preset for each product column 4 belonging to each storage group for each storage group, and the bucket unit 20 (receiving means) is selected. A plurality of product columns including other product columns 4 (product columns 4 belonging to the storage group selected by the group selection means) are moved to the product receiving position corresponding to the product column 4 (product storage unit). 4 through a midway moving operation such as a stray operation to move to a product receiving position corresponding to 4 (a motion that appears to move while straying) The conveyance means (X-axis conveyor 30 and Y-axis conveyor 40) is controlled so as to be finally moved to the commodity receiving position corresponding to the storage unit), and it is determined whether or not money is put into the vending machine. (Step S301) When money is inserted, it is determined whether or not the product selection button 14 (button) is pressed (whether or not a product group is selected) (Step S302). When money is inserted, the control unit 50 displays the amount of money on the money amount display 10.

  When the product selection button 14 is pressed (button press), the group number of the product group corresponding to the pressed product selection button 14 is read from the group setting table (for example, FIG. 5) stored in the memory 51. Based on the selection probability set in the group setting table (for example, FIG. 5) from among the product columns 4 belonging to the storage group corresponding to the product group, This is selected and stored in the memory 51 (step S303). Then, a midway movement operation process such as a stray operation is performed (step S304).

  Then, after the midway movement process (step S304) such as a stray operation, the X-axis conveyor 30 and the Y-axis conveyor 40 are finally controlled to receive the merchandise from the selected merchandise column 4 (throwing column). The bucket unit 20 is moved to the receiving position (throwing position) (step S305), the front pressing member 13 of the product column 4 is retracted from the front surface of the product column 4, and the column conveyor 11 is moved by the width of one product. Then, the product arranged in the forefront of the product column 4 is thrown out to the front of the product column 4 by the column conveyor 11 and the extruded piece 12 (step S306). In addition, when the bucket unit 20 moves to the dispensing position of the selected commodity column 4, the control unit 50 provides a notification means such as a buzzer or a sound so as to give an impression as if the commodity to be dispensed is determined. Operate.

  And the bucket unit 20 which received the thrown-out goods is conveyed to the goods discharge outlet 5 by control of the X-axis conveyor 30 and the Y-axis conveyor 40, and goods are paid out (step S307).

  Then, it is determined whether or not there is a change (step S308), and when there is a change, the change is returned to the change outlet 9 (step S309).

  When the merchandise is paid out in this manner, the merchandise is taken out from the bucket unit 20 conveyed to the merchandise payout exit 5, and the change is taken out, the sale is finished and the sales standby state is entered.

  If the product selection button 14 is not operated even after a predetermined time has elapsed since the money was inserted, it is determined that there is no intention to purchase the product, and the inserted money is returned to the change payment outlet 9. (Step S310).

  In the third example of the sales operation control, the midway movement processing (step S304) such as a stray operation is as shown in FIGS. 10 (and 11) and 12 (and 13), for example.

  The processing shown in FIG. 10 is performed by the selection probability set in the group setting table (for example, FIG. 5) (by the product storage unit selection means configured by the control unit 50 from the storage group to which each product column 4 belongs. The midway movement operation (stray operation) is continued until the time from the start of movement reaches a predetermined time or the number of movements reaches a predetermined number while sequentially determining the movement order of the halfway movement movement based on the probability of being selected) In the case of performing a stray operation process that continues a halfway movement operation (stray operation) until the time from the start of movement reaches a predetermined time, and a halfway movement operation (stray operation) until the number of movements reaches a predetermined number of times. There is a case where the continual operation process is performed.

  Then, when performing a stray operation process that continues a halfway movement operation (stray operation) until the time from the start of movement reaches a predetermined time, first, the timer 52 starts measuring time, and the customer selects the product group selected by the customer. Based on the selection probability in the group setting table (for example, FIG. 5), the product column 4 as the first movement destination of the stray operation is determined (step S401), and the X-axis conveyor 30 and the Y-axis conveyor 40 are controlled to move. The bucket unit 20 is moved to a product receiving position (pickup position) for receiving a product from the previously determined product column 4 (step S402).

  Then, when the bucket unit 20 has moved to its first destination product receiving position (delivery position), it is determined whether or not the time measured by the timer 52 has reached a predetermined time (step S403). If not, the processing returns to the destination determination process (step S401) again, a destination is newly determined (step S401), and the bucket unit 20 is moved (step S402). Then, it is determined whether or not the time measured by the timer 52 has reached a predetermined time (step S403), and these processes are repeated until the time measured by the timer 52 reaches the predetermined time.

  When the time measured by the timer 52 reaches a predetermined time, the stray operation process is terminated, and finally the X-axis conveyor 30 and the Y-axis conveyor 40 are controlled to be selected in the memory 51. The process proceeds to the process (step S305 in FIG. 9) of moving the bucket unit 20 to the commodity receiving position (throwing position) for receiving the commodity from the commodity column 4 (dispensing column).

  In addition, in the stray operation process of FIG. 10, when performing a stray operation process that continues the midway movement operation (stray operation) until the number of movements reaches a predetermined number of times, first, the number of movements of the stray motion is reset before the start of the stray operation. . Then, the first destination is determined based on the selection probability (step S401), the bucket unit 20 is moved to the determined destination (step S402), and it is determined whether the number of times of movement has reached a predetermined number (step S402). S403) If the number of movements has not reached the predetermined number of times (initially, the number of movements has not been reached), 1 is added to the number of movements, and the process returns to the movement destination determination process (step S401), and a new movement destination is obtained. (Step S401), the bucket unit 20 is moved (Step S402), it is determined whether or not the number of movements has reached a predetermined number (Step S403), and these processes are performed until the number of movements reaches the predetermined number. If the number of times of movement reaches a predetermined number of times repeatedly, the selected product column 4 stored in the memory 51 is moved to the product receiving position (throwing position). To move the Ttoyunitto 20.

  FIG. 11 shows an example of a lost motion pattern by the lost motion process of FIG. In this example, a product group with group number A is selected, and a product column 4 with which product column 4 with column number A4 throws out a product based on the selection probability set in the group setting table (for example, FIG. 5). Column) is selected and stored in the memory 51, and the confusing operation process is started. Then, based on the selection probabilities set in the same group setting table (for example, FIG. 5), the first destination of the stray operation is determined, and the destination is the product column 4 with the column number A3. Is conveyed to the commodity receiving position of the commodity column 4 with column number A3.

  And, when the bucket unit 20 moves to the commodity receiving position of the commodity column 4 of the column number A3, the time of the confusing operation has not reached the predetermined time (or the number of movements has not reached the predetermined number), Based on the selection probability set in the group setting table, the next movement destination of the stray operation is determined, and the movement destination is the commodity column 4 with the column number A4, so that the bucket unit 20 has the commodity column 4 with the column number A4. It is conveyed to the product receiving position.

  Based on the selection probability set in the group setting table, the bucket unit 20 has not yet reached the predetermined time (or the predetermined number of times) when the bucket unit 20 moves to the commodity receiving position of the commodity column 4 with the column number A4. Thus, the next destination of the lost operation is determined, and the destination is the product column 4 with the column number A6, so that the bucket unit 20 is conveyed to the product receiving position of the product column 4 with the column number A6.

  Based on the selection probability set in the group setting table, the bucket unit 20 has not yet reached the predetermined time (or the predetermined number of times) when the bucket unit 20 moves to the commodity receiving position of the commodity column 4 with the column number A6. Thus, the next movement destination of the confusing operation is determined, and the movement destination is the commodity column with the column number A5, so that the bucket unit 20 is conveyed to the commodity receiving position of the commodity column with the column number A5.

  Based on the selection probability set in the group setting table, the bucket unit 20 has not yet reached the predetermined time (or the predetermined number of times) when the bucket unit 20 moves to the commodity receiving position of the commodity column with the column number A5. The next movement destination of the stray operation is determined, and the movement destination is the commodity column 4 with the column number A6, so that the bucket unit 20 is conveyed again to the commodity receiving position of the commodity column 4 with the column number A6.

  Then, when the bucket unit 20 moves to the commodity receiving position of the commodity column 4 with the column number A6, the predetermined time (or the predetermined number of times) has been reached, and the confusing operation is terminated, and the commodity is thrown out. The bucket unit 20 is transported to the commodity receiving position of the commodity column 4 of the column number A4 that is first selected as the column 4 (dispensing column) and stored in the memory 51.

  Further, the process shown in FIG. 12 sequentially determines the moving order of the midway movement operation so as to reciprocate between the product receiving positions corresponding to the product columns located at both ends of the stage or row in the arrangement of the product columns 4. This is a stray operation process in which a halfway movement operation (stray operation) is continued until the time from the start of movement reaches a predetermined time or the number of movements reaches a predetermined number of times.

  Then, the moving order of the midway movement operation is sequentially determined so as to reciprocate between the product receiving positions corresponding to the product columns located at both ends of the stage or row where the product column 4 belonging to the selected storage group is located. In the case of performing a stray operation process in which a halfway moving operation (stray operation) is continued until the time from the start of movement reaches a predetermined time, first, the timer 52 starts measuring time, and the X-axis conveyor 30 and the Y-axis conveyor. 40 of the product column 4 at the end of the stage or row where the product column 4 belonging to the selected storage group is located (for example, the left end when viewed from the front) The product is moved to the product receiving position (dispensing position) (step S501), and then the X-axis conveyor 30 or the Y-axis conveyor 40 is controlled to select the selected storage group. To start moving a slow bucket unit 20 toward the commodity column 4 belonging to over-flop to product receiving position of the commodity column 4 of the other end of the stage or row positioned (e.g. right end) (step S502).

  Then, the bucket unit 20 is slowly moved as it is (step S503), and it is determined whether or not the bucket unit 20 has reached the commodity receiving position of the commodity column 4 at the end in the moving direction (for example, the right end) (step S504). The bucket unit 20 continues to move until it reaches (step S503).

  When the bucket unit 20 reaches the commodity receiving position of the commodity column 4 at the end in the movement direction (for example, the right end), it is determined whether or not the time measured by the timer 52 has reached a predetermined time (step S505). If the predetermined time has not been reached, the moving direction of the bucket unit 20 is switched to the reverse direction (for example, the direction toward the left end) (step S506), and the selected storage group is controlled by controlling the X-axis conveyor 30 or the Y-axis conveyor 40. The bucket unit 20 is slowly moved toward the product receiving position of the product column 4 at the opposite end (for example, the left end) of the step or row where the product column 4 belongs to (step S503).

  Then, it is determined whether or not the bucket unit 20 has reached the commodity receiving position of the commodity column 4 at the end in the moving direction (for example, the left end) at that time (step S504), and the movement of the bucket unit 20 is continued until it reaches. (Step S503) When the bucket unit 20 moves to the product receiving position of the product column 4 at the end (for example, the left end), it is determined again whether the time measured by the timer 52 has reached a predetermined time (Step S505). ) These processes are repeated until the time measured by the timer 52 reaches a predetermined time.

  Then, when the time measured by the timer 52 reaches a predetermined time, the stray operation process is terminated, and finally the X-axis conveyor 30 or the Y-axis conveyor 40 is controlled and selected from the memory 51. The process proceeds to the process (step S305 in FIG. 9) of moving the bucket unit 20 to the commodity receiving position (throwing position) for receiving the commodity from the commodity column 4 (dispensing column).

  Further, in the stray operation process of FIG. 12, the intermediate moving operation is performed so as to reciprocate between the product receiving positions corresponding to the product columns located at both ends of the row or row where the product column 4 belonging to the selected storage group is located. When performing a stray operation process that continues the midway movement operation (stray operation) until the number of movements reaches the predetermined number of times while sequentially determining the movement order, the number of movements of stray motion is reset and selected before the stray operation starts. The bucket unit 20 is moved to the stage where the product column 4 of the storage group is located or the product receiving position (pick-up position) of the product column 4 at the end of the row (for example, the left end when viewed from the front) (step S501). Alternatively, the bucket unit 20 starts to move toward the commodity receiving position of the commodity column 4 at the other end (for example, the right end) of the row (step S502).

  Then, the bucket unit 20 is continuously moved (step S503), and it is determined whether or not the bucket unit 20 has reached the commodity receiving position of the commodity column 4 at the end in the moving direction (for example, the right end) (step S504). The movement of the bucket unit 20 is continued until it reaches (step S503).

  When the bucket unit 20 reaches the merchandise receiving position of the merchandise column 4 at the end in the movement direction (for example, the right end), it is determined whether or not the number of times of movement has reached a predetermined number (step S505). If it does not reach the predetermined number at first, 1 is added to the number of movements, and the movement direction of the bucket unit 20 is switched to the reverse direction (for example, the direction toward the left end) (step S506). The bucket unit 20 is moved toward the product receiving position of the product column 4 at the opposite end (for example, the left end) (step S503), and it is determined whether or not the product receiving position of the product column 4 at the end (for example, the left end) has been reached. (Step S504), and the movement is continued until it reaches (Step S503).

  When the bucket unit 20 moves to the commodity receiving position in the commodity column 4 at the end (for example, the left end), it is determined again whether or not the number of times of movement has reached the predetermined number (step S505). If the number of movements reaches a predetermined number of times, the lost operation process is terminated, and a product receiving position (throwing position) for receiving a product from the selected product column 4 (throwing column) stored in the memory 51 ) To the process of moving the bucket unit 20 to (step S305 in FIG. 9).

  12 is applied to the product columns located at both ends of any of the stages or rows over a plurality of stages or rows including the stage or row where the product column 4 belonging to the selected storage group is located. While determining the movement order of the halfway movement operation so as to reciprocate between the corresponding product receiving positions, the middle movement movement (stray) until the time from the movement start reaches a predetermined time or the number of movements reaches a predetermined number It is also possible to perform a lost operation process that continues the operation). The stage or column that moves halfway may be selected at random, or may be moved sequentially to the next stage or column.

  In this case, the bucket unit 20 is moved to the product receiving position (throwing position) of the product column 4 at the end of the first stage or row set in advance (for example, the left end) (step S501), and then the product at the midway destination If the stage or row where the column 4 is located changes, the Y-axis conveyor 40 or the X-axis conveyor 30 is controlled to move the bucket unit 20 to the end (for example, the left end) of the stage or row where the destination product column 4 is located. Then, the bucket unit 20 starts to move toward the product receiving position of the product column 4 at the other end (for example, the right end) of the stage or row, and the product column 4 that is the intermediate destination is located at the same stage or row. In this case, the X-axis conveyor 30 or the Y-axis conveyor 40 is controlled to move the bucket unit toward the product receiving position of the product column 4 at the other end (for example, the right end) of the stage or row. To start movement of 0 (step S502).

  Then, the movement of the bucket unit 20 is continued as it is (step S503), and it is determined whether or not the bucket unit 20 has reached the commodity receiving position of the commodity column 4 at the end in the moving direction (for example, the right end) (step S504). The movement of the bucket unit 20 is continued until it reaches (step S503).

  When the bucket unit 20 reaches the commodity receiving position of the commodity column 4 at the end in the moving direction (for example, the right end), it is determined whether the moving time has reached a predetermined time or whether the moving number has reached a predetermined number. (Step S505) If the predetermined time or the predetermined number of times has not been reached (initially, the predetermined time or the predetermined number of times has not been reached), the moving direction of the bucket unit 20 is switched to the reverse direction (for example, the direction toward the left end) (Step S505). S506).

  If the stage or row where the next intermediate product column 4 is located changes, the bucket unit 20 is moved to the end (for example, the right end) of the stage or row where the destination product column 4 is located. Alternatively, when the bucket unit 20 is moved toward the commodity receiving position of the commodity column 4 on the opposite end (for example, the left end) of the row, and the commodity column 4 that is the next halfway destination is located in the same stage or row The bucket unit 20 is moved toward the commodity receiving position of the commodity column 4 at the opposite end (for example, the left end) of the step or row (step S503).

  Then, it is determined whether or not the product receiving position of the product column 4 at the end (for example, the left end) has been reached (step S504), and the movement is continued until it reaches (step S503), and the product column 4 at the end (for example, the left end). When the bucket unit 20 moves to the commodity receiving position, it is determined again whether or not the predetermined time or the predetermined number of times has been reached (step S505), and these processes are repeated until the predetermined time or the predetermined number of times is reached. When the predetermined number of times is reached, the confusing operation process is terminated, and the bucket unit 20 is moved from the selected product column 4 (throwing column) stored in the memory 51 to the product receiving position (throwing position) for receiving the product. It progresses to a process (step S305 of FIG. 9).

FIG. 13 shows an example of a lost motion pattern by the lost motion process of FIG.
In this example, the moving order of the intermediate movement operation is sequentially determined so as to reciprocate between the product receiving positions corresponding to the product columns located at both ends of the stage where the product column 4 belonging to the selected storage group is located. This is an example of an operation pattern in the case of performing a lost motion process that continues a midway moving operation (a lost motion) until the time of the lost motion reaches a predetermined time or the number of movements reaches a predetermined number of times.

  In this example, a product group with group number A is selected, and a product column 4 with which product column 4 with column number A4 throws out a product based on the selection probability set in the group setting table (for example, FIG. 5). Column) is selected and stored in the memory 51, and the confusing operation process is started. Since the first destination of the confusing operation is the leftmost product column 4 (initially set as the left end in advance), the bucket unit 20 is transported to the product receiving position of the product column 4 of the leftmost column number A1. Then, the product is slowly conveyed from that position to the product receiving position of the product column 4 of the column number A6 at the right end on the opposite side.

  Then, when the right end column number A6 moves to the commodity receiving position of the commodity column 4, the time for the stray operation has not reached the predetermined time (or the number of movements has not reached the predetermined number), and the bucket unit The moving direction of 20 is switched, and the bucket unit 20 is slowly conveyed toward the product receiving position of the product column 4 of the leftmost column number A1, which is the next destination.

  Then, when the bucket unit 20 moves to the product receiving position of the product column 4 with the column number A6 at the left end, it reaches a predetermined time (or a predetermined number of times), so that the confusing operation is terminated and the product to be thrown out. The bucket unit 20 is transported to the commodity receiving position of the commodity column 4 of the column number A4 that is first selected as the column 4 (dispensing column) and stored in the memory 51.

  In this example (third example of sales operation control), the product storage unit selection unit configured by the control unit 50 immediately belongs to the selected storage group when one storage group is selected by the group selection unit. Product storage unit selection means for selecting one product storage unit (product column 4) from the product storage unit (product column 4), and the receiving and transport control means configured by the control unit 50 includes product storage unit selection means. The receipt means (bucket unit 20) starts to move when one commodity storage section is selected by the above-described operation, and the receipt means (bucket unit 20) is selected by the product storage section selection means (product column) A plurality of product collections including other product storage units (product column 4) belonging to the storage group selected by the group selection means at the product receiving position corresponding to 4) After a halfway moving operation of moving to the product receiving position corresponding to the section (product column 4), the time after the receiving means (bucket unit 20) starts moving reaches a predetermined time or the receiving means (bucket unit 20 ) Starts the movement, and the receiving means (bucket unit 20) includes a product storage unit (product column 4) selected by the product storage unit selection unit and other product storage units (product column 4). When the number of halfway movements that have moved to the product receiving position corresponding to one of the storage units (product column 4) reaches a predetermined number of times, the conveying means (X-axis conveyor 30 and Y-axis conveyor 40) are controlled so as to be finally moved. Receiving and conveying control means.

(Fourth example of sales operation control)
In the fourth example of the sales operation control shown in FIG. 14, when a product group (storage group) is selected by operating the product selection button 14 (operation unit), the bucket unit 20 (receiving means) starts to move, Upon completion (or re-operation) of the operation of the product selection button 14, the product column 4 (product storage unit) belonging to the selected storage group is preliminarily stored for each product column 4 belonging to each storage group. Based on the set selection probability, one product column 4 is selected, and the bucket unit 20 (receiving means) is moved to the product receiving position corresponding to the selected product column 4 (product storage unit). Missed to move to a product receiving position corresponding to a plurality of product columns 4 including other product columns 4 (product columns 4 belonging to the storage group selected by the group selection means) Conveying means (X-axis) is finally moved to the product receiving position corresponding to the selected product column 4 (product storage unit) through an intermediate movement operation such as an operation (operation that seems to move while wondering) The conveyor 30 and the Y-axis conveyor 40) are controlled, and it is determined whether or not money is inserted into the vending machine (step S601). When money is inserted, the product selection button 14 (button) is pressed. It is determined whether or not (a product group has been selected) (step S602). When money is inserted, the control unit 50 displays the amount of money on the money amount display 10.

  When the product selection button 14 is pressed (button pressing), at least one of the X-axis conveyor 30 and the Y-axis conveyor 40 is moved to start the movement of the bucket unit 20 (step S603).

  Then, it is determined whether or not the pressing operation of the product selection button 14 has been completed (button release) (or whether or not the product selection button has been pressed again) (step S604). The group number of the product group corresponding to the pressed product selection button 14 is read from the group setting table (for example, FIG. 5) stored in 51, and the product column 4 belonging to the storage group corresponding to the product group is read out. Based on the selection probability set in the group setting table, the product column 4 (throwing column) on which the product is to be thrown out is selected and stored in the memory 51 (step S605). Then, a midway movement operation process such as a stray operation is performed (step S606).

  The midway movement operation process (step S606) such as the stray operation is similar to the midway movement operation process (step S304 in FIG. 9) in the third example of the previous sales operation control. 10 (and FIG. 11) and FIG. 12 (and FIG. 13).

  Then, after the midway movement operation process (step S606) such as a stray operation, the product which finally controls the X-axis conveyor 30 and the Y-axis conveyor 40 and receives the product from the selected product column 4 (throwing column) The bucket unit 20 is moved to the receiving position (throwing position) (step S607), the front pressing member 13 of the product column 4 is retracted from the front surface of the product column 4, and the column conveyor 11 is moved by the width of one product. Then, the product arranged in the forefront of the product column 4 is thrown out to the front of the product column 4 by the column conveyor 11 and the extruded piece 12 (step S608). In addition, when the bucket unit 20 moves to the dispensing position of the selected commodity column 4, the control unit 50 provides a notification means such as a buzzer or a sound so as to give an impression as if the commodity to be dispensed is determined. Operate.

  And the bucket unit 20 which received the thrown-out goods is conveyed to the goods discharge outlet 5 by control of the X-axis conveyor 30 and the Y-axis conveyor 40, and goods are paid out (step S609).

  Then, it is determined whether or not there is a change (step S610), and when there is a change, the change is returned to the change outlet 9 (step S611).

  When the merchandise is paid out in this manner, the merchandise is taken out from the bucket unit 20 conveyed to the merchandise payout exit 5, and the change is taken out, the sale is finished and the sales standby state is entered.

  If the product selection button 14 is not operated even after a predetermined time has elapsed since the money was inserted, it is determined that there is no intention to purchase the product, and the inserted money is returned to the change payment outlet 9. (Step S612).

  In this example (fourth example of sales operation control), the product storage unit selection unit configured by the control unit 50 is triggered by the group selection unit triggered by the end of the operation unit (product selection button 14) or the re-operation. Receiving and conveying control means configured by the control unit 50, which is a product storage unit selection unit that selects one product storage unit (product column 4) from the product storage units (product column 4) belonging to the selected storage group. Starts the movement of the receiving means (bucket unit 20) triggered by the start of the operation of the operation unit (product selection button 14), and the product storage unit (bucket unit 20) selected by the product storage unit selection unit (bucket unit 20). A plurality of products including other product storage units (product column 4) belonging to the storage group selected by the group selection means at the product receiving position corresponding to the product column 4). After a halfway moving operation to move to the product receiving position corresponding to the storage unit (product column 4), the time after the receiving means (bucket unit 20) starts moving reaches a predetermined time or the receiving means (bucket unit 20) after the movement starts, the receiving means (bucket unit 20) includes a plurality of product storage units (product column 4) selected by the product storage unit selection unit and other product storage units (product column 4). When the number of halfway movements to the product receiving position corresponding to one of the product storage units (product column 4) reaches a predetermined number of times, the transport means (X-axis conveyor 30 and Y-axis conveyor 40) are moved so as to be finally moved. It is a receiving conveyance control means to control.

  Note that, as an example, the processing of the midway movement operation such as the stray operation in the third and fourth examples of the sales operation control is based on the processing shown in FIG. 10, that is, based on the selection probability set in the group setting table. A stray operation process (hereinafter referred to as “random movement based on intra-group selection probability”) for sequentially determining the movement order of the movement operation will be described. As another example, the process shown in FIG. A stray operation process (hereinafter referred to as “reciprocating movement”) for sequentially determining the moving order of the midway moving operation so as to reciprocate between the product receiving positions corresponding to the product columns located at both ends of the steps or rows in the arrangement. As described above, in addition, the stray motion process (hereinafter referred to as “equal probability”) that sequentially determines the moving order of the midway moving motion with the same probability for all the product storage units (product column 4). In addition to the selection probabilities set in the group setting table, each product storage unit (product column 4) gets lost in each product storage unit (product column 4) separately from the selection probability set in the group setting table. Can be arbitrarily set, and based on the arbitrarily set probability, the moving order of the halfway movement operation is sequentially determined (hereinafter referred to as “random movement with arbitrary probability”).

  Then, a stray operation setting table as shown in FIG. 15 is set and stored in the memory 51, and random movement based on the intra-group selection probability (“same as intra-group selection probability”), reciprocal movement, and random movement based on the equal probability (“ Random movement (equal probability) ”), random movement with an arbitrary probability (“ arbitrary ”),“ no hesitation ”and the like can be selected and set with a remote controller or the like. “No hesitation” indicates that selection is not performed.

  In addition, the stop condition for the stray operation is not fixed to either the time from the start of movement reaching the predetermined time or the number of movements reaching the predetermined number of times. May be arbitrarily selected and set. For example, a stray operation stop condition setting item can be added to the stray operation setting table, and a stop condition based on time and a stop condition based on the number of movements can be selected and set with a remote controller or the like. In this case, after setting the lost operation setting mode with the remote controller or the like, for example, the stop condition based on the number of movements is selected and set as the stop condition of the lost operation, then “predetermined number” is input, for example, “5 times”, and For example, a random movement with an equal probability is selected and set. By setting in this way, the product storage unit (product column 4) that is the destination of the lost operation with the same probability from the product storage units (product column 4) belonging to the product group (storage group) selected by the customer. Are randomly selected five times, and the movement of the confusing action is performed five times.

  In addition, the moving speed of the lost motion is changed randomly by changing the operating speed of the conveying means (X-axis conveyor 30 or Y-axis conveyor 40), or the moving speed is changed every time the destination is changed. Changes may be made during operation. In that case, for example, the operation speeds of the conveying means (X-axis conveyor 30 and Y-axis conveyor 40) are set in several stages, and randomized using random numbers every time the destination is determined during a stray operation. Various methods can be used, such as determining the movement speed at a later time, or setting the movement speed for each movement of the stray operation in advance, such as the first movement is slow and the second movement is high. It is.

  In the third and fourth examples of the sales operation control, a product storage unit (product column 4 from the product column 49) belonging to the storage group (product group) selected by the customer is added. The selection process, that is, determination of the final movement destination is performed before the stray operation, but determination of the final movement destination may be performed during the stray operation or immediately after the end of the stray operation. In addition, when control is performed such that the destination of the stray motion is selected based on the selection probability of the group setting table, the destination of the last stray motion when the stray motion has elapsed or reached the predetermined number of times. May be used as it is as a final product storage unit (product column 4) from which products are paid out.

  Further, in the third and fourth examples of the sales operation control, the target of movement destination selection of the lost operation is the product column 4 belonging to the storage group (product group) selected by the customer. The selection target may be all the product columns 4 of the vending machine.

  Also, a plurality of product storage units (product column 4) including other product storage units (product column 4) at the product receiving position corresponding to the product storage unit (product column 4) selected by the receiving means (bucket unit 20). As the midway movement operation for moving to the commodity receiving position corresponding to, a midway movement operation that is not a stray operation (operation that appears to move while straying) is also possible.

  Further, the vending machine of the above embodiment is provided with a product-type storage unit (product column 4) provided with a take-out type take-out means (a take-out means) for taking out the product. It may be provided on the receiving means (bucket unit 20) side, or may be provided separately from the product storage section (product column 4) and the receiving means (bucket unit 20). .

It is a front perspective view of the vending machine of the embodiment of the present invention. It is explanatory drawing of the conveyance mechanism of the vending machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a side view of the goods column of the vending machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a control block diagram of the vending machine of the embodiment of the present invention. It is explanatory drawing of the group setting table in the sales operation control of the vending machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a layout view of the commodity column of the vending machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the 1st example of the sales operation control of the vending machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the 2nd example of the sales operation control of the vending machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the 3rd example of the sales operation control of the vending machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the lost operation process in the 3rd example of the sales operation control of the vending machine of embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of an example of the lost operation pattern in the 3rd example of the sales operation control of the vending machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the other example of the lost operation process in the 3rd example of the sales operation control of the vending machine of embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the other example of the lost operation pattern in the 3rd example of the sales operation control of the vending machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the 4th example of the sales operation control of the vending machine of embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the lost operation setting table in the sales operation control of the vending machine of embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Vending machine main body 2 Door body 4 Product column 5 Product delivery outlet 11 Column conveyor 12 Extrusion piece 13 Front pressing member 14 Product selection button 20 Bucket unit 30 X-axis conveyor 34 X-axis rotation sensor 40 Y-axis conveyor 44 Y-axis rotation sensor 50 Control unit 51 Memory 52 Timer

Claims (12)

A product exit from which the product is paid out;
A plurality of product storage units for storing products so as to be visible from the front of the vending machine;
Take-out means for taking out the product stored in each product storage unit;
Receiving means for moving to a receiving position corresponding to each product storage section so as to be visible from the front of the vending machine and receiving the product taken out by the taking-out means;
Transport means for transporting the receiving means from the front of the vending machine so as to be visible, and moving the receiving means to a receiving position corresponding to each product storage unit and a payout position for paying out the product to the product payout exit;
Group setting means for setting the plurality of product storage units as at least one storage group for each product group;
An operation part for selection operation;
Group selection means for selecting a storage group from among the storage groups set by the group setting means, triggered by the operation of the operation unit;
A product storage unit selection unit for selecting one product storage unit from among the product storage units belonging to the storage group selected by the group selection unit;
Receiving transport control means for controlling the transporting means to move the receiving means to a product receiving position corresponding to the product storage section selected by the product storage section selection means;
Take-out control means for controlling the take-out means to take out the product from the product storage section in a state where the receiving means is stopped at the product receiving position of the selected product storage section;
An automatic vending machine comprising: a payout transfer control means for controlling the transfer means so as to move the receiving means that has received the product in the selected product storage section to the product takeout port. A product exit from which the product is paid out;
A plurality of product storage units for storing products so as to be visible from the front of the vending machine;
Take-out means for taking out the product stored in each product storage unit;
Receiving means for moving to a receiving position corresponding to each product storage section so as to be visible from the front of the vending machine and receiving the product taken out by the taking-out means;
Transport means for transporting the receiving means from the front of the vending machine so as to be visible, and moving the receiving means to a receiving position corresponding to each product storage unit and a payout position for paying out the product to the product payout exit;
Group setting means for setting the plurality of product storage units as a plurality of storage groups for each product group;
An operation part for selection operation;
Group selection means for selecting a storage group from among the storage groups set by the group setting means, triggered by the operation of the operation unit;
A product storage unit selection unit for selecting one product storage unit from among the product storage units belonging to the storage group selected by the group selection unit;
Receiving transport control means for controlling the transporting means to move the receiving means to a product receiving position corresponding to the product storage section selected by the product storage section selection means;
Take-out control means for controlling the take-out means to take out the product from the product storage section in a state where the receiving means is stopped at the product receiving position of the selected product storage section;
An automatic vending machine comprising: a payout transfer control means for controlling the transfer means so as to move the receiving means that has received the product in the selected product storage section to the product takeout port. The vending machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the receiving means has a bucket capable of receiving a commodity that is taken out and dropped by the taking-out means. The product storage unit selection unit selects one product storage unit from among the product storage units belonging to the selected storage group as soon as one storage group is selected by the group selection unit,
2. The receiving and conveying control means controls the conveying means so as to start the movement of the receiving means in response to selection of one commodity storage unit by the commodity storage unit selecting means. 2. Vending machine according to 2 or 3. The receiving and conveying control means controls the conveying means to start the movement of the receiving means triggered by the operation start of the operation unit;
The product storage unit selection unit selects one product storage unit from among the product storage units belonging to the storage group selected by the group selection unit when the operation of the operation unit is finished or re-operated. The vending machine according to claim 1, 2, or 3. The receiving and transporting control unit moves the receiving unit to a product receiving position corresponding to the product storing unit selected by the product storing unit selecting unit to a product receiving position corresponding to a plurality of product storing units including other product storing units. 6. The vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the conveying means is controlled so as to be finally moved through an intermediate moving operation. In the receiving and conveying control means, a time after the receiving means starts moving reaches a predetermined time, or the receiving means is selected by the commodity storage unit selecting means after the receiving means starts moving. When the number of halfway movements to the product receiving position corresponding to any of the plurality of product storage units including the product storage unit and the other product storage units reaches a predetermined number of times, the receiving unit is changed to the selected product storage unit. 7. The vending machine according to claim 6, wherein the conveying means is controlled so as to be finally moved to a corresponding product receiving position. 8. The vending machine according to claim 6, wherein the other product storage unit is a product storage unit belonging to a storage group selected by the group selection unit. The product storage section is provided in an arrangement in which a plurality of stages are provided in the vertical direction and a plurality of rows are provided in the horizontal direction,
9. The vending machine according to claim 6, 7 or 8, wherein the storage group set by the group setting means is a group of product storage units located in the same row or in the same row. The vending machine according to claim 6, 7, 8, or 9, wherein the moving order of the midway moving operation is determined at random. The movement order of the midway movement operation is reciprocating between the product receiving positions corresponding to the product storage units located at both ends of the stage or row where the product storage unit belonging to the storage group selected by the group selection unit is located. 10. The vending machine according to claim 9, wherein the vending machine is determined to do so. The product storage unit selection unit is configured to select, for each storage group, a product storage unit belonging to the storage group selected by the group selection unit based on a selection probability preset for each product storage unit belonging to each storage group. Select one product storage section from the inside,
The vending machine according to claim 6, 7, 8, or 9, wherein the moving order of the midway moving operation is determined based on the selection probability.

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