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WO2019073101A1 - Automatic vending machine - Google Patents

Automatic vending machine Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2019073101A1
WO2019073101A1 PCT/ES2018/070654 ES2018070654W WO2019073101A1 WO 2019073101 A1 WO2019073101 A1 WO 2019073101A1 ES 2018070654 W ES2018070654 W ES 2018070654W WO 2019073101 A1 WO2019073101 A1 WO 2019073101A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
vending machine
automatic vending
extractor head
machine according
channels
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/ES2018/070654
Other languages
Spanish (es)
French (fr)
Inventor
David LACASTA SANZ
Original Assignee
Gm Vending, S.A.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Gm Vending, S.A. filed Critical Gm Vending, S.A.
Publication of WO2019073101A1 publication Critical patent/WO2019073101A1/en

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F11/00—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles
    • G07F11/02—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines
    • G07F11/04—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines in which magazines the articles are stored one vertically above the other
    • G07F11/16—Delivery means
    • G07F11/165—Delivery means using xyz-picker or multi-dimensional article picking arrangements
    • G07F11/1653—Delivery means using xyz-picker or multi-dimensional article picking arrangements the picking arrangements being collecting buckets
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F11/00—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles
    • G07F11/46—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports
    • G07F11/58—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the articles being supported on or by endless belts or like conveyors

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the industry dedicated to vending machines, and more specifically to the industry dedicated to drive means for sale and automatic dispensing of products in vending machines.
  • vending machines are widely known, commonly known as “vending” machines, which automatically, after selection through a keyboard or screen, provides a consumer with a product among various products arranged in a series of rails or channels.
  • Said channels are distributed parallel to each other and according to different floors or levels within an exterior body that forms the vending machine. Once the desired product has been chosen, as well as the channel in which it is located, the consumer selects said channel for its operation so that the desired product is extracted or separated from the rest for its reception.
  • vending machines include as many engines as channels. In this way, depending on the product selected by the user, and according to the channel in which it is located, the engine associated with the corresponding channel is operated for the dispensing of said selected product.
  • This configuration is highly expensive due to the high number of motors required, as well as the consequent interconnections. Additionally, from the point of view of the maintenance of the vending machines, the times, and therefore the costs, are consequently high.
  • the present invention provides an automatic vending machine comprising channels configured for aligned arrangement of products to be dispensed .
  • the automatic vending machine additionally comprises an extractor head, comprising drive means for carrying out a longitudinal drag of the products located in the channels; first displacement means for moving the extractor head according to a first direction; and second movement means for moving the extractor head according to a second direction.
  • the extractor head is positionable according to the channel selected by a user to obtain the desired product.
  • the automatic vending machine additionally comprises third displacement means for moving the extractor head between an active position and an inactive position in relation to the longitudinal drag of the products.
  • the third movement means are configured to move the extractor head in a transverse direction, between the active position and the inactive position, the transverse direction being perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.
  • the actuating means comprise a third motor and a toothed wheel operable by the third motor, while the channels comprise an externally toothed belt, the toothed wheel being engageable with the belt.
  • the automatic vending machine additionally comprises a carriage, the extractor head being carried by the carriage. Accordingly, the first movement means are configured to move the extractor head along the carriage in the horizontal direction. On the other hand, the second movement means are configured to move the carriage in the vertical direction.
  • the automatic vending machine additionally comprises a tray, the tray being carried by the carriage, for receiving the products when being dragged out of the location channel.
  • the machine of the invention additionally comprises removable driving elements by means of driving means for the longitudinal dragging of the products.
  • the driving elements have an identification element and the extractor head has at least one reading element, so that the at least one reading element is configured to determine the position of the identification elements so that a location of the elements of the device is stable. drag on the channels. In this way, it is determinable whether or not there are products in the channels, and if so, the quantity thereof in each of the channels.
  • the automatic vending machine further comprises sensor means configured to determine an output of the product dispensed from the location channel thereof.
  • sensor means comprise a laser sensor, the laser sensor being arranged so that it is displaceable according to the second direction.
  • Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an automatic vending machine, object of the invention, with an open front door.
  • Figure 2 shows a front view of the automatic vending machine, object of the invention, with the front door open.
  • Figure 3 shows a perspective view of some channels, in addition to first displacement means and second displacement means for moving an extractor head according to a first and a second direction, respectively.
  • Figure 4 shows a front view of the first moving means and the second moving means for moving the extractor head according to the first and the second direction, respectively.
  • Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a first belt and an element of trawls available in one of the channels to longitudinally drag products to be dispensed.
  • Figure 6 shows a set of channels with the corresponding first belts, in addition to the extractor head.
  • Figure 7 shows the extractor head engaging with one of the first belts.
  • Figure 8A to 8C show different positions of the extractor head with respect to one of the first belts.
  • Figure 9 shows a view in which sensor means arranged to determine an output of the channels of the dispensed product are appraised.
  • Figure 10 shows another view in which the sensor means arranged to determine the output of the channels of the dispensed product are appraised.
  • the present invention relates to an automatic vending machine comprising an outer body (1) defined by panels and a front door (V) for accessing an interior part of said outer body (1), i.e. of the automatic vending machine.
  • channels (2) are distributed. Each of these channels (2) is configured to accommodate, aligned with each other, products to be dispensed by the vending machine, according to a longitudinal extension of said channels (2).
  • the automatic vending machine comprises assemblies formed by the channels (2) arranged distributed immediately following one another in a parallel manner and according to different heights, in addition to a frame (3) to support said assemblies.
  • the channels (2) arranged according to each of the horizontal distributions are defined by a base sheet (2.1) and side walls (2.2).
  • Each of the base sheets (2.1) have anchor points distributed so that the side walls (2.2) are arranged by defining a desired width, the width of each of the channels (2) being independent of the width of the other channels (2).
  • the frame (3) comprises beams (3.1), namely two, arranged longitudinally extended according to the vertical extension of the automatic vending machine.
  • the beams (3.1) are arranged joined by the base sheets (2.1), for which said beams (3.1) have holes (3.2) distributed in a way that provide different positions for fixing the base sheets (2.1) to the beams (3.1).
  • the vending machine of the invention comprises a carriage (3.3), which is arranged by joining the beams (3.1) together.
  • Said trolley (3.3) is comprised in the frame (3) and is arranged in said frame (3) so that it is displaceable in accordance with a linear displacement by the beams (3.1) with respect to the base sheets (2.1).
  • the automatic vending machine additionally comprises an extractor head (4). This extractor head (4), as it is clearly visible in figure 4, is carried by the car (3.3).
  • the automatic vending machine comprises first displacement means (5) for moving the extractor head (4) according to a first direction (X).
  • first direction (X) is developed according to a horizontal plane.
  • the first displacement means (5) comprise a first motor (5.1), which is preferably electric, first transmission means (5.2), such as a first chain or a first belt, and two wheels (5.3).
  • the first motor (5.1) is arranged engaging with the first transmission means (5.2) so that a turn provided by the first motor (5.1) is transmissible to said first transmission means (5.2) which are guided in their turns by the wheels (5.3) and the very first motor (5.1).
  • the first motor (5.1) is mechanically connected to the extractor head (4), by means of the first transmission means (5.2), so that the rotation of the first motor (5.1) involves a linear displacement of said extractor head (4) by the car (3.3) according to the first direction (X).
  • the first transmission means (5.2) are configured so as to move the extractor head (4) according to the first direction (X), specifically the carriage (3.3).
  • the automatic vending machine additionally comprises second displacement means (6) for moving the extractor head (4) according to a second direction (Y).
  • said second direction (Y) is developed according to a vertical plane, that is preferably it is perpendicular to the first direction (X).
  • the second displacement means (6) comprise a second motor (6.1), which is preferably electric, second transmission means (6.2), such as second chains or second belts, gear wheels (6.3) and a second one. transmission shaft (6.4).
  • the second motor (6.1) is arranged engaging with the second transmission means (6.2), for example one of the second chains or second belts, so that a turn provided by the second motor (6.1) is transmissible to said second means of transmission (6.2).
  • first transmission means (5.2) are longitudinally developed next to one of the beams (3.1), said second transmission means (6.2) being guided by at least one of the gear wheels (6.3).
  • the second transmission means (6.2) of the beams (3.1) are mechanically arranged attached to the carriage (3.3), so that the rotation of the second transmission means (6.2) entails the linear displacement of said carriage (3.3) by the beams (3.1) according to the second direction (Y).
  • the second transmission means (6.2) are configured so as to move the extractor head (4) according to the second direction (Y), specifically when moving the carriage (3.3) carrying said extractor head (4).
  • the extractor head (4) comprises driving means for carrying out a longitudinal drag of the products located in the channels (2).
  • the driving means comprise a third motor, preferably electric and which is not shown in the figures for reasons of clarity, and a gear wheel (7). This gear wheel (7) is driven to be rotated by the third motor disposed in the extractor head (4).
  • the channels (2) comprise an externally toothed belt (8) arranged longitudinally, like the gear wheel (7).
  • the belts (8) and the gear wheel (7) are jointly configured to mesh with each other so that the rotation of the gear wheel (7) is transmissible to the belts (8).
  • the automatic vending machine comprises rails (9), one being appreciable in figure 5.
  • the rails (9) are fixed in the base sheet (2.1) to define the channels (2).
  • These rails (9) have a longitudinal structure (9.1) that wraps laterally to the belt (8).
  • a longitudinal end of said structure (9.1), for issuing the products, is configured open so that the belt (8) is directly accessible.
  • the structure (9.1) is stiffened at said longitudinal end by a joint union of both sides thereof (9.1) to a pair of wheels (9.2) which are partially and externally wrapped by the corresponding tape (8) .
  • These turning wheels (9.2) comprised in the rails (9) are arranged slightly spaced from one another, maintaining a certain tension in the section of the belt (8) between the two turning wheels (9.2). Said turning wheels (9.2) are arranged at different distances with respect to the base sheets (2.1), once the rails (9) are arranged, the turning wheel (9.2) being closer to the longitudinal end of shipping the products more distanced from the corresponding base sheet (2.1) than the turning wheel (9.2) located more centered with respect to the length of the rails (9).
  • the automatic vending machine comprises third displacement means configured to move the extractor head (4) between an active position and an inactive position in relation to the longitudinal drag of the products. That is to say, the third movement means are configured to move the extractor head (4) so that the toothed wheel (7) of the extractor head (4) engages, active position, or not, inactive position, with one of the tapes (8).
  • the third displacement means preferably comprise a fourth motor, preferably electric and not shown in the figures for reasons of clarity, to move the extractor head (4) at least in accordance with a transverse direction (Z) between the active position and the position inactive, the transverse direction (Z) being perpendicular to the first direction (X) and the second direction (Y).
  • a fourth motor preferably electric and not shown in the figures for reasons of clarity
  • this displacement of the extractor head (4) so that the gear wheel (7) engages and disengages with the belts (8) preferably, is given according to a pitch movement of the extractor head (4), is say combining a displacement in the transverse direction (Z) and in the second direction (Y). Said pitch movement is reflected in a sequence represented by FIGS. 8A, 8B and 8C.
  • this pitch movement of the extractor head (4) is given so that the gear (7) engages and disengages with the belts (8) in the section comprised between the turning wheels (9.2) corresponding to each of the channels (2).
  • the automatic vending machine comprises driving elements (10), such as for example a wedge, which can be moved by means of the drive means.
  • driving elements (10) such as for example a wedge
  • the products to be dispensed are longitudinally displaceable by the channels (2) by rotating the belts (8), said belts (8) being arranged so that the products can rest on them (8), the longitudinal translation of the drag elements (10) through the channels (2) ensures the dragging or longitudinal displacement of the products housed in the channels (2) by pushing them.
  • drag elements (10) are arranged fixed to the belts (8) to be moved together with the rotation or displacement of the belts (8). Additionally, said drag elements (10) remain in projection with respect to the belts (8) and between the side walls (2.2) to act as pushers on the product arranged in the channels (2) immediately following them (10). ) towards the longitudinal ends of the expedition.
  • the machine of the invention comprises a tray (1 1) for receiving the products when being dragged out of the channel (2) for locating them by the ends Longitudinal expeditions.
  • the tray (1 1) is dimensioned as a function of the greater width of the channels (2), and more preferably as a function of the distance between the beams (3.1), and even more preferably as a function of the total width of the beams (3.1).
  • the channels (2) arranged in parallel with each other according to the same level or height.
  • This tray (11) is carried by the carriage (3.3) so that it is displaceable according to the second direction (Y) so that impacts are reduced or even eliminated in the products derived from its exit from the channels (2) to be issued.
  • the tray (11) is dimensioned according to the channel (2) of greater width, the tray (11) is carried by the carriage (3.3) through the extractor head (4). In this way, the tray (11) is additionally displaceable according to the first direction (X) so as to be positioned in front of the longitudinal end of the products and to receive the product driven by the displacement transmitted by the gear wheel (7) to the belt. (2) of the corresponding channel (2).
  • the tray (11) is configured so that it rotates before reaching a collection point disposed in the machine where the user picks up the selected product. In this way, the tray (11) is arranged to deposit the product at the collection point without risk to the user. Said collection point is fixed, that is to say it lacks mobile mechanisms that in case of malfunctioning of the machine could damage the user.
  • the entrainment elements (10) have an identification element (12), as can be seen, for example, in figure 5.
  • the identification elements (12) are connected to the drag elements (10) to be moved or moved. jointly by the channels (2).
  • the identification elements (12) are configured to determine the position of the driving elements (10) along the rails (9), ie of the channels (2). In this way the products are determinable, in number, available in each of the channels (2).
  • the extractor head (4) has a reading element (13), as can be seen, for example, in figure 7, said reading element (13) being configured to detect, by proximity, the presence of the identification element (12). Upon said detection, the reading element (13) is configured to generating a signal associated with a lack of products in the corresponding channel (2), that is when the quantity of the products located in the channels (2) is zero. This signal deactivates the extractor head (4), and more specifically the cogwheel (7). According to this, the reading element (13) makes it possible to detect the corresponding end of stroke of the driving elements (10).
  • the identification elements (12) are magnets and the reader elements (13) "reed" type sensors.
  • the reading element (13) of the extractor head (4) is configured to determine both the identification element (12) close to the extractor head (4) so that the lack of products in the channel is stable ( 2) corresponding as the quantity of the products arranged in the corresponding channel (2). In this way, said reading element (13) is configured to generate both the signal associated with a lack of products in the corresponding channel (2) and the signal associated with the quantity of the products arranged in the corresponding channel (2).
  • the automatic vending machine comprises sensor means (14) configured to determine an output of the product dispensed from the channel (2) for locating it.
  • the sensor means (14) comprises a laser sensor. Said sensor means (14) are located so that, during the dispensing of one of the products, they emit a laser signal.
  • This laser signal crosses the front of the longitudinal ends of the channels (2) located according to a same level of height, among which is the channel (2) for locating the corresponding product.
  • said sensor means (14) are carried by the carriage (3.3).
  • the machine of the invention additionally comprises a selection means and a control unit for the user to select the desired product and activate correspondingly the first displacement means (5), the second displacement means (6) and the third displacement means, in addition to the driving means of the extractor head (4).
  • the machine additionally comprises a sensor, of type "photomicrosensor", to know the position of the extractor head (4).
  • the machine of the invention comprises a part (15), which in turn comprises a through slot (15 ') for the passage of a portion of a plate (16) in the displacements according to the second direction (Y), ie vertically, of said piece (15), which moves according to said second direction (Y) together with the carriage (3.3) with respect to the platen (16) of each of the foils bases (2.1).
  • the piece (15) comprises a sensor element arranged to detect each step of the portion of each of the plates (16) through the through slot (15 '). In this way, by means of said sensor element it is known if, before a predetermined displacement to be carried out by the carriage (3.3) according to the second direction (Y) depending on the location of the product selected by the user, the carriage (3.3) is moved by carrying the extractor head (4) to the appropriate height.
  • said sensor element allows detecting whether the extractor head (4) is at the appropriate height to weigh of having confirmed that the car (3.3) that carries it is at the appropriate height.
  • the automatic vending machine is configured to perform this detection and / or check through the sensor element given that with the passage of time and the weight of the extractor head (4), said head (4) may tend to lower, ie move according to the second direction (Y) in downward direction, not offering an adequate mesh with the belt (8) between the turning wheels (9.2) corresponding to the channel (2) of location of the product to be extracted.
  • the extractor head (4) When the presence of the plate (16) is detected by the sensor element and it is known to be at the appropriate height, the extractor head (4) is configured to be moved up until it just exceeds the height of the sensor element. According to this, if the extractor head (4) is displaced, the gear with the corresponding belt (8) is inadequate, the sensor element detects said extractor head (4) and, since the correct position of said head is known. (4), the corresponding motor it is activated by correcting the position of the extractor head (4), ensuring proper engagement with the corresponding belt (8).
  • the machine of the invention may comprise means of payment and credit validation means, in addition to a printer for printing coupons and receipts.
  • the automatic vending machine may comprise means for identifying the user, personal or biometrics of the previously registered user. This record is stored in a central unit. According to this, the machine can obtain the user identification information of the central unit and compare it with a central server for validation.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Vending Machines For Individual Products (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to an automatic vending machine comprising: channels (2) configured for the aligned arrangement of products to be dispensed; first movement means (5) for moving an extractor head (4) in a first direction (X); second movement means (6) for moving the extractor head (4) in a second direction (Y); and the extractor head (4), which comprises actuation means for longitudinally pulling the products located in the channels (2).

Description

DESCRIPCION  DESCRIPTION
MÁQUINA EXPENDEDORA AUTOMÁTICA Sector de la técnica AUTOMATIC VENDING MACHINE Sector of the technique
La presente invención está relacionada con la industria dedicada a máquinas expendedoras, y más concretamente con la industria dedicada a medios de accionamiento para venta y dispensación automática de productos en las máquinas expendedoras. The present invention relates to the industry dedicated to vending machines, and more specifically to the industry dedicated to drive means for sale and automatic dispensing of products in vending machines.
Estado de la técnica State of the art
En la actualidad son ampliamente conocidas máquinas expendedoras, comúnmente denominadas maquinas "vending", que automáticamente, previa selección a través de un teclado o pantalla, suministra a un consumidor un producto entre diversos productos dispuestos en una serie de carriles o canales. Nowadays vending machines are widely known, commonly known as "vending" machines, which automatically, after selection through a keyboard or screen, provides a consumer with a product among various products arranged in a series of rails or channels.
Dichos canales se encuentran distribuidos paralelamente entre sí y de acuerdo con diferentes plantas o niveles dentro de un cuerpo exterior que conforma la máquina expendedora. Una vez escogido el producto deseado, así como el canal en el que se encuentra localizado, el consumidor selecciona dicho canal para su accionamiento de forma que el producto deseado es extraído o separado del resto para su recepción. Said channels are distributed parallel to each other and according to different floors or levels within an exterior body that forms the vending machine. Once the desired product has been chosen, as well as the channel in which it is located, the consumer selects said channel for its operation so that the desired product is extracted or separated from the rest for its reception.
Estas máquinas expendedoras incluyen tantos motores como canales. De esta forma, en función del producto seleccionado por el usuario, y de acuerdo al canal en el que se encuentra localizado, es accionado el motor asociado al canal correspondiente para la dispensación de dicho producto seleccionado. Esta configuración, sin embargo, resulta altamente costosa por el elevado número de motores requerido, así como por las consecuentes interconexiones. Adicionalmente, desde el punto de vista del mantenimiento de las máquinas expendedoras, los tiempos, y por tanto los costes, resultan consecuentemente elevados. These vending machines include as many engines as channels. In this way, depending on the product selected by the user, and according to the channel in which it is located, the engine associated with the corresponding channel is operated for the dispensing of said selected product. This configuration, however, is highly expensive due to the high number of motors required, as well as the consequent interconnections. Additionally, from the point of view of the maintenance of the vending machines, the times, and therefore the costs, are consequently high.
A la vista de las descritas desventajas o limitaciones que presentan las soluciones existentes en la actualidad, resulta necesaria una solución que permita simplificar y abaratar el funcionamiento y el mantenimiento de las máquinas expendedoras existentes. Objeto de la invención In view of the described disadvantages or limitations presented by the solutions currently available, a solution is necessary that allows to simplify and lower the operation and maintenance of existing vending machines. Object of the invention
Con la finalidad de cumplir este objetivo y solucionar los problemas técnicos comentados hasta el momento, además de aportar ventajas adicionales que se pueden derivar más adelante, la presente invención proporciona una máquina expendedora automática que comprende unos canales configurados para disposición alineada de productos a ser dispensados. In order to meet this objective and solve the technical problems discussed so far, in addition to providing additional advantages that can be derived later, the present invention provides an automatic vending machine comprising channels configured for aligned arrangement of products to be dispensed .
La máquina expendedora automática adicionalmente comprende un cabezal extractor, que comprende unos medios de accionamiento para llevar a cabo un arrastre longitudinal de los productos localizados en los canales; unos primeros medios de desplazamiento para desplazar el cabezal extractor de acuerdo a una primera dirección; y unos segundos medios de desplazamiento para desplazar el cabezal extractor de acuerdo a una segunda dirección. De esta manera, el cabezal extractor es posicionable de acuerdo al canal seleccionare por un usuario para la obtención del producto deseado. The automatic vending machine additionally comprises an extractor head, comprising drive means for carrying out a longitudinal drag of the products located in the channels; first displacement means for moving the extractor head according to a first direction; and second movement means for moving the extractor head according to a second direction. In this way, the extractor head is positionable according to the channel selected by a user to obtain the desired product.
La máquina expendedora automática adicionalmente comprende unos terceros medios de desplazamiento para desplazar el cabezal extractor entre una posición activa y una posición inactiva en relación con el arrastre longitudinal de los productos. Preferentemente los terceros medios de desplazamiento están configurados para desplazar el cabezal extractor en una dirección transversal, entre la posición activa y la posición inactiva, siendo la dirección transversal perpendicular a la primera dirección y a la segunda dirección. The automatic vending machine additionally comprises third displacement means for moving the extractor head between an active position and an inactive position in relation to the longitudinal drag of the products. Preferably the third movement means are configured to move the extractor head in a transverse direction, between the active position and the inactive position, the transverse direction being perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.
Los medios de accionamiento comprenden un tercer motor y una rueda dentada accionable mediante el tercer motor, mientras los canales comprenden una cinta externamente dentada, siendo la rueda dentada engranable con la cinta. The actuating means comprise a third motor and a toothed wheel operable by the third motor, while the channels comprise an externally toothed belt, the toothed wheel being engageable with the belt.
La máquina expendedora automática adicionalmente comprende un carro, siendo el cabezal extractor portado por el carro. De acuerdo con esto, los primeros medios de desplazamiento están configurados para desplazar el cabezal extractor por el carro según la dirección horizontal. Por otra parte, los segundos medios de desplazamiento están configurados para desplazar el carro según la dirección vertical. The automatic vending machine additionally comprises a carriage, the extractor head being carried by the carriage. Accordingly, the first movement means are configured to move the extractor head along the carriage in the horizontal direction. On the other hand, the second movement means are configured to move the carriage in the vertical direction.
La máquina expendedora automática adicionalmente comprende una bandeja, siendo la bandeja portada por el carro, para recepción de los productos al ser arrastrados fuera del canal de localización. The automatic vending machine additionally comprises a tray, the tray being carried by the carriage, for receiving the products when being dragged out of the location channel.
La máquina de la invención adicionalmente comprende unos elementos de arrastre trasladables mediante los medios de accionamiento para el arrastre longitudinal de los productos. The machine of the invention additionally comprises removable driving elements by means of driving means for the longitudinal dragging of the products.
Los elementos de arrastre tienen un elemento de identificación y el cabezal extractor al menos un elemento lector, de forma que el al menos un elemento lector está configurado para determinar la posición de los elementos de identificación de forma que es establecible una localización de los elementos de arrastre en los canales. De esta forma, es determinable si hay o no productos en los canales, y en caso de afirmativo la cantidad de los mismos en cada uno de los canales. The driving elements have an identification element and the extractor head has at least one reading element, so that the at least one reading element is configured to determine the position of the identification elements so that a location of the elements of the device is stable. drag on the channels. In this way, it is determinable whether or not there are products in the channels, and if so, the quantity thereof in each of the channels.
La máquina expendedora automática adicionalmente comprende medios sensores configurados para determinar una salida del producto dispensado del canal de localización del mismo. Estos medios sensores comprenden un sensor láser, estando el sensor láser dispuesto de forma que es desplazable de acuerdo a la segunda dirección. The automatic vending machine further comprises sensor means configured to determine an output of the product dispensed from the location channel thereof. These sensor means comprise a laser sensor, the laser sensor being arranged so that it is displaceable according to the second direction.
Descripción de las figuras Description of the figures
La figura 1 muestra una vista en perspectiva de una máquina expendedora automática, objeto de la invención, con una puerta frontal abierta. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an automatic vending machine, object of the invention, with an open front door.
La figura 2 muestra una vista frontal de la máquina expendedora automática, objeto de la invención, con la puerta frontal abierta. Figure 2 shows a front view of the automatic vending machine, object of the invention, with the front door open.
La figura 3 muestra una vista en perspectiva de unos canales, además de unos primeros medios de desplazamiento y unos segundos medios de desplazamiento para desplazar un cabezal extractor de acuerdo a una primera y a una segunda dirección, respectivamente. Figure 3 shows a perspective view of some channels, in addition to first displacement means and second displacement means for moving an extractor head according to a first and a second direction, respectively.
La figura 4 muestra una vista frontal de los primeros medios de desplazamiento y los segundos medios de desplazamiento para desplazar el cabezal extractor de acuerdo a la primera y a la segunda dirección, respectivamente. La figura 5 muestra una vista en perspectiva de una primera correa y un elemento de arrastre disponibles en uno de los canales para arrastrar longitudinalmente productos a ser dispensados. Figure 4 shows a front view of the first moving means and the second moving means for moving the extractor head according to the first and the second direction, respectively. Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a first belt and an element of trawls available in one of the channels to longitudinally drag products to be dispensed.
La figura 6 muestra un conjunto de los canales con las correspondientes primeras correas, además el cabezal extractor. Figure 6 shows a set of channels with the corresponding first belts, in addition to the extractor head.
La figura 7 muestra el cabezal extractor engranando con una de las primeras correas. Figure 7 shows the extractor head engaging with one of the first belts.
La figura 8A a 8C muestran diferentes posicionamientos del cabezal extractor con respecto a una de las primeras correas. Figure 8A to 8C show different positions of the extractor head with respect to one of the first belts.
La figura 9 muestra una vista en la que se aprecian unos medios sensores dispuestos para determinar una salida de los canales del producto dispensado. La figura 10 muestra otra vista en la que se aprecian los medios sensores dispuestos para determinar la salida de los canales del producto dispensado. Figure 9 shows a view in which sensor means arranged to determine an output of the channels of the dispensed product are appraised. Figure 10 shows another view in which the sensor means arranged to determine the output of the channels of the dispensed product are appraised.
Descripción detallada de la invención La presente invención se refiere a una máquina expendedora automática que comprende un cuerpo exterior (1) definido por unos paneles y una puerta frontal (V) de acceso a una parte interior de dicho cuerpo exterior (1), es decir de la máquina expendedora automática. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to an automatic vending machine comprising an outer body (1) defined by panels and a front door (V) for accessing an interior part of said outer body (1), i.e. of the automatic vending machine.
En la parte interior de la máquina expendedora automática se encuentran distribuidos unos canales (2). Cada uno de estos canales (2) está configurado para alojar alineados entre sí unos productos a ser dispensados por la máquina expendedora, de acuerdo con una extensión longitudinal de dichos canales (2). In the inner part of the automatic vending machine channels (2) are distributed. Each of these channels (2) is configured to accommodate, aligned with each other, products to be dispensed by the vending machine, according to a longitudinal extension of said channels (2).
La máquina expendedora automática comprende conjuntos formados por los canales (2) dispuestos distribuidos unos inmediatamente a continuación de otros de manera paralela y de acuerdo a diferentes alturas, además de un bastidor (3) para sustentar dichos conjuntos. The automatic vending machine comprises assemblies formed by the channels (2) arranged distributed immediately following one another in a parallel manner and according to different heights, in addition to a frame (3) to support said assemblies.
Los canales (2) dispuestos de acuerdo a cada una de las distribuciones horizontales están definidos por una lámina base (2.1) y unas paredes laterales (2.2). Cada una de las láminas bases (2.1) tienen unos puntos de anclaje distribuidos de forma que las paredes laterales (2.2) son dispuestas definiendo un ancho deseado, siendo el ancho de cada uno de los canales (2) independiente del ancho de los demás canales (2). The channels (2) arranged according to each of the horizontal distributions are defined by a base sheet (2.1) and side walls (2.2). Each of the base sheets (2.1) have anchor points distributed so that the side walls (2.2) are arranged by defining a desired width, the width of each of the channels (2) being independent of the width of the other channels (2).
El bastidor (3) comprende unas vigas (3.1), concretamente dos, dispuestas extendidas longitudinalmente de acuerdo a la extensión vertical de la máquina expendedora automática. Las vigas (3.1) se encuentran dispuestas unidas mediante las láminas base (2.1), para lo cual dichas vigas (3.1) disponen unos orificios (3.2) distribuidos de forma que proporcionan diversas posiciones para la fijación de las láminas base (2.1) a las vigas (3.1). La máquina expendedora de la invención comprende un carro (3.3), el cual se encuentra dispuesto uniendo las vigas (3.1) entre sí. Dicho carro (3.3) está comprendido en el bastidor (3) y está dispuesto en dicho bastidor (3) de manera que es desplazable de acuerdo con un desplazamiento lineal por las vigas (3.1) con respecto a las láminas base (2.1). La máquina expendedora automática adicionalmente comprende un cabezal extractor (4). Este cabezal extractor (4), tal y como es apreciable claramente en la figura 4, es portado por el carro (3.3). The frame (3) comprises beams (3.1), namely two, arranged longitudinally extended according to the vertical extension of the automatic vending machine. The beams (3.1) are arranged joined by the base sheets (2.1), for which said beams (3.1) have holes (3.2) distributed in a way that provide different positions for fixing the base sheets (2.1) to the beams (3.1). The vending machine of the invention comprises a carriage (3.3), which is arranged by joining the beams (3.1) together. Said trolley (3.3) is comprised in the frame (3) and is arranged in said frame (3) so that it is displaceable in accordance with a linear displacement by the beams (3.1) with respect to the base sheets (2.1). The automatic vending machine additionally comprises an extractor head (4). This extractor head (4), as it is clearly visible in figure 4, is carried by the car (3.3).
De acuerdo con esto, la máquina expendedora automática comprende unos primeros medios de desplazamiento (5) para desplazar el cabezal extractor (4) de acuerdo a una primera dirección (X). Preferentemente, dicha primera dirección (X) se desarrolla de acuerdo a un plano horizontal. According to this, the automatic vending machine comprises first displacement means (5) for moving the extractor head (4) according to a first direction (X). Preferably, said first direction (X) is developed according to a horizontal plane.
Los primeros medios de desplazamiento (5) comprenden un primer motor (5.1), el cual es preferentemente eléctrico, unos primeros medios de transmisión (5.2), tal como una primera cadena o una primera correa, y dos ruedas (5.3). El primer motor (5.1) está dispuesto engranando con los primeros medios de transmisión (5.2) de forma que un giro proporcionable por el primer motor (5.1) es transmisible a dichos primeros medios de transmisión (5.2) los cuales se encuentran guiados en sus giros por las ruedas (5.3) y el propio primer motor (5.1). The first displacement means (5) comprise a first motor (5.1), which is preferably electric, first transmission means (5.2), such as a first chain or a first belt, and two wheels (5.3). The first motor (5.1) is arranged engaging with the first transmission means (5.2) so that a turn provided by the first motor (5.1) is transmissible to said first transmission means (5.2) which are guided in their turns by the wheels (5.3) and the very first motor (5.1).
Asimismo, el primer motor (5.1) está mecánicamente conectado al cabezal extractor (4), mediante los primeros medios de transmisión (5.2), de forma que el giro del primer motor (5.1) conlleva un desplazamiento lineal de dicho cabezal extractor (4) por el carro (3.3) según la primera dirección (X). De esta forma, los primeros medios de transmisión (5.2) están configurados de forma que desplazan el cabezal extractor (4) según la primera dirección (X), concretamente por el carro (3.3). La máquina expendedora automática adicionalmente comprende unos segundos medios de desplazamiento (6) para desplazar el cabezal extractor (4) de acuerdo a una segunda dirección (Y). Preferentemente, dicha segunda dirección (Y) se desarrolla de acuerdo a un plano vertical, es decir preferentemente es perpendicular a la primera dirección (X). Los segundos medios de desplazamiento (6) comprenden un segundo motor (6.1), el cual es preferentemente eléctrico, unos segundos medios de transmisión (6.2), tal como unas segundas cadenas o unas segundas correas, unas ruedas de engranaje (6.3) y un eje de transmisión (6.4). El segundo motor (6.1) está dispuesto engranando con los segundos medios de transmisión (6.2), por ejemplo una de las segundas cadenas o segundas correas, de forma que un giro proporcionable por el segundo motor (6.1) es transmisible a dichos segundos medios de transmisión (6.2). Likewise, the first motor (5.1) is mechanically connected to the extractor head (4), by means of the first transmission means (5.2), so that the rotation of the first motor (5.1) involves a linear displacement of said extractor head (4) by the car (3.3) according to the first direction (X). In this way, the first transmission means (5.2) are configured so as to move the extractor head (4) according to the first direction (X), specifically the carriage (3.3). The automatic vending machine additionally comprises second displacement means (6) for moving the extractor head (4) according to a second direction (Y). Preferably, said second direction (Y) is developed according to a vertical plane, that is preferably it is perpendicular to the first direction (X). The second displacement means (6) comprise a second motor (6.1), which is preferably electric, second transmission means (6.2), such as second chains or second belts, gear wheels (6.3) and a second one. transmission shaft (6.4). The second motor (6.1) is arranged engaging with the second transmission means (6.2), for example one of the second chains or second belts, so that a turn provided by the second motor (6.1) is transmissible to said second means of transmission (6.2).
Estos primeros medios de transmisión (5.2) se desarrollan longitudinalmente junto a una de las vigas (3.1), estando dichos segundos medios de transmisión (6.2) guiados por al menos una de las ruedas de engranaje (6.3). These first transmission means (5.2) are longitudinally developed next to one of the beams (3.1), said second transmission means (6.2) being guided by at least one of the gear wheels (6.3).
El giro trasmitido a dichos segundos medios de transmisión (6.2) desarrollados por la correspondiente viga (3.1) es transmitido a los segundos medios de transmisión (6.2) desarrollados por la otra de las vigas (3.1) mediante el eje de transmisión (6.4). Estos segundos medios de transmisión (6.2) desarrollados por la otra de las vigas (3.1) se encuentran guiados por dos de las ruedas de engranaje (6.3). The turn transmitted to said second transmission means (6.2) developed by the corresponding beam (3.1) is transmitted to the second transmission means (6.2) developed by the other of the beams (3.1) by the transmission shaft (6.4). These second transmission means (6.2) developed by the other of the beams (3.1) are guided by two of the gear wheels (6.3).
Asimismo, los segundos medios de transmisión (6.2) de las vigas (3.1) están dispuestos mecánicamente unidos al carro (3.3), de forma que el giro de los segundos medios de transmisión (6.2) conllevan el desplazamiento lineal de dicho carro (3.3) por las vigas (3.1) según la segunda dirección (Y). Likewise, the second transmission means (6.2) of the beams (3.1) are mechanically arranged attached to the carriage (3.3), so that the rotation of the second transmission means (6.2) entails the linear displacement of said carriage (3.3) by the beams (3.1) according to the second direction (Y).
De esta forma, los segundos medios de transmisión (6.2) están configurados de forma que desplazan el cabezal extractor (4) según la segunda dirección (Y), concretamente al desplazar el carro (3.3) portando dicho cabezal extractor (4). El cabezal extractor (4) comprende unos medios de accionamiento para llevar a cabo un arrastre longitudinal de los productos localizados en los canales (2). Los medios de accionamiento comprenden un tercer motor, preferentemente eléctrico y el cual no es mostrado en las figuras por motivos de claridad, y una rueda dentada (7). Esta rueda dentada (7) es accionada para ser girada mediante el tercer motor dispuesto en el cabezal extractor (4). In this way, the second transmission means (6.2) are configured so as to move the extractor head (4) according to the second direction (Y), specifically when moving the carriage (3.3) carrying said extractor head (4). The extractor head (4) comprises driving means for carrying out a longitudinal drag of the products located in the channels (2). The driving means comprise a third motor, preferably electric and which is not shown in the figures for reasons of clarity, and a gear wheel (7). This gear wheel (7) is driven to be rotated by the third motor disposed in the extractor head (4).
Los canales (2), por su parte, comprenden dispuesta longitudinalmente una cinta (8) externamente dentada, al igual que la rueda dentada (7). Las cintas (8) y la rueda dentada (7) están conjuntamente configuradas para engranar entre sí de forma que el giro de la rueda dentada (7) es transmisible a las cintas (8). The channels (2), on the other hand, comprise an externally toothed belt (8) arranged longitudinally, like the gear wheel (7). The belts (8) and the gear wheel (7) are jointly configured to mesh with each other so that the rotation of the gear wheel (7) is transmissible to the belts (8).
La máquina expendedora automática comprende unos raíles (9), siendo uno apreciable en la figura 5. Los raíles (9) son fijables en la lámina base (2.1) para definir los canales (2). Estos raíles (9) tienen una estructura (9.1) longitudinal que envuelve lateralmente a la cinta (8). Un extremo longitudinal de dicha estructura (9.1), de expedición de los productos, está configurado abierto de forma que la cinta (8) es directamente accesible. La estructura (9.1) se encuentra rigidizada en dicho extremo longitudinal mediante una unión conjunta de ambos laterales de la misma (9.1) a una pareja de ruedas de giro (9.2) las cuales se encuentran parcial y externamente envueltas por la cinta (8) correspondiente. The automatic vending machine comprises rails (9), one being appreciable in figure 5. The rails (9) are fixed in the base sheet (2.1) to define the channels (2). These rails (9) have a longitudinal structure (9.1) that wraps laterally to the belt (8). A longitudinal end of said structure (9.1), for issuing the products, is configured open so that the belt (8) is directly accessible. The structure (9.1) is stiffened at said longitudinal end by a joint union of both sides thereof (9.1) to a pair of wheels (9.2) which are partially and externally wrapped by the corresponding tape (8) .
Estas ruedas de giro (9.2) comprendidas en los raíles (9) están dispuestas ligeramente distanciadas entre sí manteniendo en el tramo de la cinta (8) comprendido entre ambas ruedas de giro (9.2) una tensión determinada. Dichas ruedas de giro (9.2) se encuentran dispuestas a diferentes distancias con respecto a las láminas base (2.1), una vez dispuestos los raíles (9), estando la rueda de giro (9.2) más próxima al extremo longitudinal de expedición de los productos más distanciada con respecto a la lámina base (2.1) correspondiente que la rueda de giro (9.2) localizada más centrada con respecto a la longitud de los raíles (9). These turning wheels (9.2) comprised in the rails (9) are arranged slightly spaced from one another, maintaining a certain tension in the section of the belt (8) between the two turning wheels (9.2). Said turning wheels (9.2) are arranged at different distances with respect to the base sheets (2.1), once the rails (9) are arranged, the turning wheel (9.2) being closer to the longitudinal end of shipping the products more distanced from the corresponding base sheet (2.1) than the turning wheel (9.2) located more centered with respect to the length of the rails (9).
La máquina expendedora automática comprende unos terceros medios de desplazamiento configurados para desplazar el cabezal extractor (4) entre una posición activa y una posición inactiva en relación con el arrastre longitudinal de los productos. Es decir, los terceros medios de desplazamiento están configurados para desplazar el cabezal extractor (4) de forma que la rueda dentada (7) del cabezal extractor (4) engrana, posición activa, o no, posición inactiva, con una de las cintas (8). The automatic vending machine comprises third displacement means configured to move the extractor head (4) between an active position and an inactive position in relation to the longitudinal drag of the products. That is to say, the third movement means are configured to move the extractor head (4) so that the toothed wheel (7) of the extractor head (4) engages, active position, or not, inactive position, with one of the tapes (8).
Los terceros medios de desplazamiento preferentemente comprenden un cuarto motor, preferentemente eléctrico y no mostrado en las figuras por motivos de claridad, para desplazar el cabezal extractor (4) al menos de acuerdo con una dirección transversal (Z) entre la posición activa y la posición inactiva, siendo la dirección transversal (Z) perpendicular a la primera dirección (X) y a la segunda dirección (Y). The third displacement means preferably comprise a fourth motor, preferably electric and not shown in the figures for reasons of clarity, to move the extractor head (4) at least in accordance with a transverse direction (Z) between the active position and the position inactive, the transverse direction (Z) being perpendicular to the first direction (X) and the second direction (Y).
De acuerdo con esto, este desplazamiento del cabezal extractor (4) de forma que la rueda dentada (7) engrana y desengrana con las cintas (8) preferentemente, se da de acuerdo a un movimiento de cabeceo del cabezal extractor (4), es decir combinando un desplazamiento en la dirección transversal (Z) y en la segunda dirección (Y). Dicho movimiento de cabeceo queda reflejado en una secuencia representada mediante las figuras 8A, 8B y 8C. Además, preferentemente este movimiento de cabeceo del cabezal extractor (4) se da de forma que la rueda dentada (7) engrana y desengrana con las cintas (8) en el tramo comprendido entre las ruedas de giro (9.2) correspondientes a cada uno de los canales (2). According to this, this displacement of the extractor head (4) so that the gear wheel (7) engages and disengages with the belts (8) preferably, is given according to a pitch movement of the extractor head (4), is say combining a displacement in the transverse direction (Z) and in the second direction (Y). Said pitch movement is reflected in a sequence represented by FIGS. 8A, 8B and 8C. In addition, preferably this pitch movement of the extractor head (4) is given so that the gear (7) engages and disengages with the belts (8) in the section comprised between the turning wheels (9.2) corresponding to each of the channels (2).
La máquina expendedora automática comprende unos elementos de arrastre (10), tal como por ejemplo una cuña, trasladables mediante los medios de accionamiento. Si bien los productos a ser dispensados son longitudinalmente desplazables por los canales (2) mediante el giro de las cintas (8), al estar dichas cintas (8) dispuestas de forma que los productos pueden reposar sobre éstas (8), la traslación longitudinal de los elementos de arrastre (10) por los canales (2) asegura el arrastre o el desplazamiento longitudinal de los productos alojados en los canales (2) por empuje de los mismos. The automatic vending machine comprises driving elements (10), such as for example a wedge, which can be moved by means of the drive means. Although the products to be dispensed are longitudinally displaceable by the channels (2) by rotating the belts (8), said belts (8) being arranged so that the products can rest on them (8), the longitudinal translation of the drag elements (10) through the channels (2) ensures the dragging or longitudinal displacement of the products housed in the channels (2) by pushing them.
Estos elementos de arrastre (10) se encuentran dispuestos fijados a las cintas (8) para ser trasladados junto con el giro o desplazamiento de las cintas (8). Adicionalmente, dichos elementos de arrastre (10) quedan en proyección con respecto a las cintas (8) y entre las paredes laterales (2.2) para ejercer de empujadores sobre el producto dispuesto en los canales (2) inmediatamente a continuación de los mismos (10) hacia los extremos longitudinales de expedición. These drag elements (10) are arranged fixed to the belts (8) to be moved together with the rotation or displacement of the belts (8). Additionally, said drag elements (10) remain in projection with respect to the belts (8) and between the side walls (2.2) to act as pushers on the product arranged in the channels (2) immediately following them (10). ) towards the longitudinal ends of the expedition.
La máquina de la invención comprende una bandeja (1 1) para recepción de los productos al ser arrastrados fuera del canal (2) de localización de los mismos por los extremos longitudinales de expedición. Preferentemente, la bandeja (1 1) está dimensionada en función de la mayor anchura de los canales (2), y más preferentemente en función de la distancia de separación entre las vigas (3.1), y aún más preferentemente en función del ancho total de los canales (2) dispuestos en paralelo entre sí de acuerdo a un mismo nivel o altura. The machine of the invention comprises a tray (1 1) for receiving the products when being dragged out of the channel (2) for locating them by the ends Longitudinal expeditions. Preferably, the tray (1 1) is dimensioned as a function of the greater width of the channels (2), and more preferably as a function of the distance between the beams (3.1), and even more preferably as a function of the total width of the beams (3.1). the channels (2) arranged in parallel with each other according to the same level or height.
Esta bandeja (11) es portada por el carro (3.3) de forma que es desplazable según la segunda dirección (Y) de forma que se reducen o incluso se eliminan impactos en los productos derivados de su salida de los canales (2) al ser expedidos. This tray (11) is carried by the carriage (3.3) so that it is displaceable according to the second direction (Y) so that impacts are reduced or even eliminated in the products derived from its exit from the channels (2) to be issued.
En caso de estar la bandeja (11) dimensionada en función del canal (2) de mayor anchura, la bandeja (11) es portada por el carro (3.3) a través del cabezal extractor (4). De esta forma, la bandeja (11) es adicionalmente desplazable según la primera dirección (X) para posicionarse así frente al extremo longitudinal de expedición de los productos y recibir el producto arrastrado por el desplazamiento transmitido por la rueda dentada (7) a la cinta (2) del canal (2) correspondiente. If the tray (11) is dimensioned according to the channel (2) of greater width, the tray (11) is carried by the carriage (3.3) through the extractor head (4). In this way, the tray (11) is additionally displaceable according to the first direction (X) so as to be positioned in front of the longitudinal end of the products and to receive the product driven by the displacement transmitted by the gear wheel (7) to the belt. (2) of the corresponding channel (2).
La bandeja (11) está configurada de forma que gira antes de llegar a un punto de recogida dispuesto en la máquina de donde el usuario recoge el producto seleccionado. De esta forma, la bandeja (1 1) está dispuesta para depositar el producto en el punto de recogida sin riesgo para el usuario. Dicho punto de recogida es fijo, es decir carece de mecanismos móviles que en caso de mal funcionamiento de la máquina puedan dañar al usuario. The tray (11) is configured so that it rotates before reaching a collection point disposed in the machine where the user picks up the selected product. In this way, the tray (11) is arranged to deposit the product at the collection point without risk to the user. Said collection point is fixed, that is to say it lacks mobile mechanisms that in case of malfunctioning of the machine could damage the user.
Los elementos de arrastre (10) tienen un elemento de identificación (12), tal y como es apreciable por ejemplo en la figura 5. Los elementos de identificación (12) están unido a los elementos de arrastre (10) para ser desplazados o trasladados conjuntamente por los canales (2). Los elementos de identificación (12) están configurados para determinar la posición de los elementos de arrastre (10) a lo largo de los raíles (9), es decir de los canales (2). De esta forma son determinables los productos, en número, disponibles en cada uno de los canales (2). The entrainment elements (10) have an identification element (12), as can be seen, for example, in figure 5. The identification elements (12) are connected to the drag elements (10) to be moved or moved. jointly by the channels (2). The identification elements (12) are configured to determine the position of the driving elements (10) along the rails (9), ie of the channels (2). In this way the products are determinable, in number, available in each of the channels (2).
Según una opción de realización, complementariamente el cabezal extractor (4) tiene un elemento lector (13), tal y como es apreciable por ejemplo en la figura 7, estando dicho elemento lector (13) configurado para detectar, por proximidad, la presencia del elemento de identificación (12). Ante dicha detección, el elemento lector (13) está configurado para generar una señal asociada a una falta de productos en el canal (2) correspondiente, es decir cuando la cantidad de los productos localizados en los canales (2) es cero. Esta señal desactiva el cabezal extractor (4), y más concretamente la rueda dentada (7). De acuerdo con esto, el elemento lector (13) permite detectar el correspondiente fin de carrera de los elementos de arrastre (10). Preferentemente, los elementos de identificación (12) son imanes y los elementos lectores (13) sensores tipo "reed". According to an embodiment, in addition the extractor head (4) has a reading element (13), as can be seen, for example, in figure 7, said reading element (13) being configured to detect, by proximity, the presence of the identification element (12). Upon said detection, the reading element (13) is configured to generating a signal associated with a lack of products in the corresponding channel (2), that is when the quantity of the products located in the channels (2) is zero. This signal deactivates the extractor head (4), and more specifically the cogwheel (7). According to this, the reading element (13) makes it possible to detect the corresponding end of stroke of the driving elements (10). Preferably, the identification elements (12) are magnets and the reader elements (13) "reed" type sensors.
Según esta opción de realización, son dos los elementos lectores (13) que tiene el cabezal extractor (4), estando el primero configurado de acuerdo a lo descrito y el segundo configurado para medir la distancia a la que se encuentran los elementos de identificación (12) de forma que es determinable la cantidad de los productos dispuestos en los canales (2). De esta forma, este otro elemento lector (13) está configurado para generar una señal asociada a la cantidad de los productos dispuestos en el canal (2) correspondiente. Según otra opción de realización, el elemento lector (13) del cabezal extractor (4) está configurado para determinar tanto el elemento de identificación (12) próximo al cabezal extractor (4) de forma que es establecible la falta de productos en el canal (2) correspondiente como la cantidad de los productos dispuestos en el canal (2) correspondiente. De esta forma, dicho elemento lector (13) está configurado para generar tanto la señal asociada a una falta de productos en el canal (2) correspondiente como la señal asociada a la cantidad de los productos dispuestos en el canal (2) correspondiente. According to this embodiment, there are two reading elements (13) that has the extractor head (4), the first being configured according to the described and the second configured to measure the distance to which the identification elements are ( 12) so that the quantity of the products arranged in the channels (2) is determinable. In this way, this other reading element (13) is configured to generate a signal associated with the quantity of the products arranged in the corresponding channel (2). According to another embodiment, the reading element (13) of the extractor head (4) is configured to determine both the identification element (12) close to the extractor head (4) so that the lack of products in the channel is stable ( 2) corresponding as the quantity of the products arranged in the corresponding channel (2). In this way, said reading element (13) is configured to generate both the signal associated with a lack of products in the corresponding channel (2) and the signal associated with the quantity of the products arranged in the corresponding channel (2).
La máquina expendedora automática comprende medios sensores (14) configurados para determinar una salida del producto dispensado del canal (2) de localización del mismo. Los medios sensores (14) comprenden un sensor láser. Dichos medios sensores (14) se localizan de forma que, durante la dispensación de uno de los productos, emiten una señal láser. The automatic vending machine comprises sensor means (14) configured to determine an output of the product dispensed from the channel (2) for locating it. The sensor means (14) comprises a laser sensor. Said sensor means (14) are located so that, during the dispensing of one of the products, they emit a laser signal.
Esta señal láser atraviesa la parte frontal de los extremos longitudinales de expedición de los canales (2) localizados de acuerdo a un mismo nivel de altura, entre los cuales se encuentra el canal (2) de localización del producto correspondiente. Para esto, preferentemente, dichos medios sensores (14) son portados por el carro (3.3). This laser signal crosses the front of the longitudinal ends of the channels (2) located according to a same level of height, among which is the channel (2) for locating the corresponding product. For this, preferably, said sensor means (14) are carried by the carriage (3.3).
La máquina de la invención adicionalmente comprende un medio de selección y una unidad de control para que el usuario seleccione el producto que desee y activar correspondientemente los primeros medios de desplazamiento (5), los segundos medios de desplazamiento (6) y los terceros medios de desplazamiento, además de los medios de accionamiento del cabezal extractor (4). La máquina adicionalmente comprende un sensor, de tipo "photomicrosensor", para conocer la posición del cabezal extractor (4). The machine of the invention additionally comprises a selection means and a control unit for the user to select the desired product and activate correspondingly the first displacement means (5), the second displacement means (6) and the third displacement means, in addition to the driving means of the extractor head (4). The machine additionally comprises a sensor, of type "photomicrosensor", to know the position of the extractor head (4).
Tal y como es apreciable en la figura 9, la máquina de la invención comprende una pieza (15), la cual a su vez comprende una ranura pasante (15') para el paso de una porción de una pletina (16) en los desplazamientos según la segunda dirección (Y), es decir vertical mente, de dicha pieza (15), la cual se desplaza según dicha segunda dirección (Y) junto con el carro (3.3) con respecto a la pletina (16) de cada una de las láminas bases (2.1). As can be seen in Figure 9, the machine of the invention comprises a part (15), which in turn comprises a through slot (15 ') for the passage of a portion of a plate (16) in the displacements according to the second direction (Y), ie vertically, of said piece (15), which moves according to said second direction (Y) together with the carriage (3.3) with respect to the platen (16) of each of the foils bases (2.1).
La pieza (15) comprende un elemento sensor dispuesto para detectar cada paso de la porción de cada una de las pletinas (16) por la ranura pasante (15'). De esta manera, mediante dicho elemento sensor es conocido si, ante un predeterminado desplazamiento a ser llevado a cabo por el carro (3.3) de acuerdo a la segunda dirección (Y) en función de la localización del producto seleccionado por el usuario, el carro (3.3) es desplazado portando el cabezal extractor (4) hasta la altura adecuada. The piece (15) comprises a sensor element arranged to detect each step of the portion of each of the plates (16) through the through slot (15 '). In this way, by means of said sensor element it is known if, before a predetermined displacement to be carried out by the carriage (3.3) according to the second direction (Y) depending on the location of the product selected by the user, the carriage (3.3) is moved by carrying the extractor head (4) to the appropriate height.
Además, habiendo sido desplazado el cabezal extractor (4) hasta la altura requerida para extraer el producto seleccionado por el usuario de la máquina expendedora automática, el citado elemento sensor permite detectar si el cabezal extractor (4) se encuentra a la altura adecuada a pesar de haber confirmado que el carro (3.3) que lo porta se encuentra a la altura adecuada. La máquina expendedora automática está configurada para realizar esta detección y/o comprobación a través del elemento sensor dado que con el paso del tiempo y el peso del propio cabezal extractor (4), dicho cabezal (4) puede tender a bajar, es decir desplazarse de acuerdo con la segunda dirección (Y) en sentido descendente, dejando de ofrecer un adecuado engrane con la cinta (8) entre las ruedas de giro (9.2) correspondientes al canal (2) de ubicación del producto a ser extraído. Cuando mediante el elemento sensor se detecta la presencia de la pletina (16) y se sabe que está en la altura adecuada, el cabezal extractor (4) está configurado para ser desplazado subiendo hasta que justo supera la altura del elemento sensor. De acuerdo con esto, si el cabezal extractor (4) es desplazado deforma que el engrane con la cinta (8) correspondiente es inadecuado, el elemento sensor detecta dicho cabezal extractor (4) y, dado que es conocida la posición correcta del citado cabezal (4), el motor correspondiente es activado corrigiendo la posición del cabezal extractor (4) asegurando el engrane adecuado con la cinta (8) correspondiente. In addition, with the extractor head (4) being moved to the height required to extract the product selected by the user from the automatic vending machine, said sensor element allows detecting whether the extractor head (4) is at the appropriate height to weigh of having confirmed that the car (3.3) that carries it is at the appropriate height. The automatic vending machine is configured to perform this detection and / or check through the sensor element given that with the passage of time and the weight of the extractor head (4), said head (4) may tend to lower, ie move according to the second direction (Y) in downward direction, not offering an adequate mesh with the belt (8) between the turning wheels (9.2) corresponding to the channel (2) of location of the product to be extracted. When the presence of the plate (16) is detected by the sensor element and it is known to be at the appropriate height, the extractor head (4) is configured to be moved up until it just exceeds the height of the sensor element. According to this, if the extractor head (4) is displaced, the gear with the corresponding belt (8) is inadequate, the sensor element detects said extractor head (4) and, since the correct position of said head is known. (4), the corresponding motor it is activated by correcting the position of the extractor head (4), ensuring proper engagement with the corresponding belt (8).
La máquina de la invención puede comprender medios de pago y medios de validación de crédito, además de una impresora para imprimir cupones y recibos. The machine of the invention may comprise means of payment and credit validation means, in addition to a printer for printing coupons and receipts.
Adicionalmente, la máquina expendedora automática puede comprender medios de identificación del usuario, personal o biométrica del usuario previamente registrado. Este registro es almacenado en una unidad central. De acuerdo con esto, la máquina puede obtener la información de identificación del usuario de la unidad central y contrastarla con un servidor central para su validación. Additionally, the automatic vending machine may comprise means for identifying the user, personal or biometrics of the previously registered user. This record is stored in a central unit. According to this, the machine can obtain the user identification information of the central unit and compare it with a central server for validation.

Claims

REIVINDICACIONES
1. - Máquina expendedora automática, que comprende: 1. - Automatic vending machine, comprising:
- unos canales (2) configurados para disposición alineada de productos a ser dispensados;  - channels (2) configured for aligned arrangement of products to be dispensed;
caracterizada por que adicionalmente comprende: characterized in that additionally it comprises:
- un cabezal extractor (4), que comprende unos medios de accionamiento para llevar a cabo un arrastre longitudinal de los productos localizados en los canales (2).  - an extractor head (4), comprising drive means for carrying out a longitudinal drag of the products located in the channels (2).
- unos primeros medios de desplazamiento (5) para desplazar el cabezal extractor (4) de acuerdo a una primera dirección (X); y  - first displacement means (5) for moving the extractor head (4) according to a first direction (X); Y
- unos segundos medios de desplazamiento (6) para desplazar el cabezal extractor (4) de acuerdo a una segunda dirección (Y).  - second movement means (6) for moving the extractor head (4) according to a second direction (Y).
2. - Máquina expendedora automática según la reivindicación 1 , caracterizada por que adicionalmente comprende unos terceros medios de desplazamiento para desplazar el cabezal extractor (4) entre una posición activa y una posición inactiva en relación con el arrastre longitudinal de los productos. 2. Automatic vending machine according to claim 1, characterized in that it additionally comprises third displacement means for moving the extractor head (4) between an active position and an inactive position in relation to the longitudinal drag of the products.
3. - Máquina expendedora automática según la reivindicación 2, caracterizada por que los terceros medios de desplazamiento están configurados para desplazar el cabezal extractor3. - Automatic vending machine according to claim 2, characterized in that the third movement means are configured to move the extractor head
(4) en una dirección transversal (Z) entre la posición activa y la posición inactiva, siendo la dirección transversal (Z) perpendicular a la primera dirección (X) y a la segunda dirección (Y)- 4.- Máquina expendedora automática según la reivindicación 2 o 3, caracterizada por que los medios de accionamiento comprenden un tercer motor y una rueda dentada (7) accionable mediante el tercer motor, y los canales (2) comprenden una cinta (8) externamente dentada, siendo la rueda dentada (7) engranable con la cinta (8). (4) in a transverse direction (Z) between the active position and the inactive position, the transverse direction (Z) being perpendicular to the first direction (X) and the second direction (Y) - 4.- Automatic vending machine according to the claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the driving means comprise a third motor and a toothed wheel (7) operable by the third motor, and the channels (2) comprise an externally toothed belt (8), the gear wheel (7) being ) engageable with the tape (8).
5.- Máquina expendedora automática según una cualquiera de las reivindicaciones anteriores, caracterizada por que adicionalmente comprende un carro (3.3), siendo el cabezal extractor (4) portado por el carro (3.3). Automatic vending machine according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it additionally comprises a carriage (3.3), the extractor head (4) being carried by the carriage (3.3).
6.- Máquina expendedora automática según la reivindicación 5, caracterizada por que los primeros medios de desplazamiento (5) están configurados para desplazar el cabezal extractor (4) por el carro (3.3) según la dirección horizontal (X). 6. Automatic vending machine according to claim 5, characterized in that the first movement means (5) are configured to move the head extractor (4) by the car (3.3) according to the horizontal direction (X).
7. - Máquina expendedora automática según la reivindicación 5 o 6, caracterizada por que los segundos medios de desplazamiento (6) están configurados para desplazar el carro (3.3) según la dirección vertical (Y). 7. - Automatic vending machine according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the second movement means (6) are configured to move the carriage (3.3) according to the vertical direction (Y).
8. - Máquina expendedora automática según una cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 5 a 7, caracterizada por que adicionalmente comprende una bandeja (11), siendo la bandeja (11) portada por el carro (3.3), para recepción de los productos al ser arrastrados fuera del canal (2) de localización. 8. - Automatic vending machine according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that additionally comprises a tray (11), the tray (11) carried by the carriage (3.3), for reception of the products to be dragged out of the channel (2) of location.
9. - Máquina expendedora automática según una cualquiera de las reivindicaciones anteriores, caracterizada por que adicionalmente comprende unos elementos de arrastre (10) trasladables mediante los medios de accionamiento para el arrastre longitudinal de los productos. 9. Automatic vending machine according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it additionally comprises driving elements (10) that can be moved by means of the drive means for the longitudinal dragging of the products.
10. - Máquina expendedora automática según la reivindicación 9, caracterizada por que los elementos de arrastre (10) tienen un elemento de identificación (12) y el cabezal extractor (4) al menos un elemento lector (13), de forma que el al menos un elemento lector (13) está configurado para determinar la posición de los elementos de identificación (12) de forma que es establecible una localización de los elementos de arrastre (10) en los canales (2). 10. - Automatic vending machine according to claim 9, characterized in that the driving elements (10) have an identification element (12) and the extractor head (4) at least one reading element (13), so that the less a reading element (13) is configured to determine the position of the identification elements (12) so that a location of the driving elements (10) in the channels (2) is established.
1 1. - Máquina expendedora automática según una cualquiera de las reivindicaciones anteriores, caracterizada por que adicionalmente comprende medios sensores (14) configurados para determinar una salida del producto dispensado del canal (2) de localización. 1. Automatic vending machine according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it additionally comprises sensor means (14) configured to determine an output of the product dispensed from the location channel (2).
12. - Máquina expendedora automática según la reivindicación 11 , caracterizada por que los medios sensores (14) comprenden un sensor láser, estando el sensor láser dispuesto de forma que es desplazable de acuerdo a la segunda dirección (Y). 12. - Automatic vending machine according to claim 11, characterized in that the sensor means (14) comprise a laser sensor, the laser sensor being arranged so that it is movable according to the second direction (Y).
PCT/ES2018/070654 2017-10-09 2018-10-08 Automatic vending machine WO2019073101A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
ESP201731187 2017-10-09
ES201731187A ES2708523A1 (en) 2017-10-09 2017-10-09 AUTOMATIC VENDING MACHINE (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding)

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Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3759417A (en) * 1971-06-03 1973-09-18 C Armstrong Vending machine
US3831807A (en) * 1972-03-28 1974-08-27 Vendmart Inc Vending machine dispensing module tray
US6755322B1 (en) * 2000-02-22 2004-06-29 Hettie J. Herzog Automated shopping system and apparatus
WO2012107943A1 (en) * 2011-02-08 2012-08-16 Officine Meccaniche F.Lli Manea S.R.L. Supply device for products inside vending machines

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3759417A (en) * 1971-06-03 1973-09-18 C Armstrong Vending machine
US3831807A (en) * 1972-03-28 1974-08-27 Vendmart Inc Vending machine dispensing module tray
US6755322B1 (en) * 2000-02-22 2004-06-29 Hettie J. Herzog Automated shopping system and apparatus
WO2012107943A1 (en) * 2011-02-08 2012-08-16 Officine Meccaniche F.Lli Manea S.R.L. Supply device for products inside vending machines

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