JP5945891B1 - Vending machine system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To suitably use a vending machine for a purpose different from its original purpose in carrying out a plurality of different projects. A general administrator who belongs to each business entity that executes different projects issues a free user ID to the user. The user operates the user computer 6 to transmit free mode request information to the project control unit 4 in the vending machine 1 by short-range wireless communication. The determination unit 43 in the project control unit 4 determines whether the free user ID is included in the free mode request information or whether it matches the one stored in the storage unit 42 in accordance with the determination result. A free mode command is output from the free mode command output unit 44 to the vending machine control unit 3. As a result, the vending machine 1 operates in the free mode, and the goods are paid out free of charge. [Selection] Figure 1

Description

  The invention of the present application relates to a system for using a vending machine for a plurality of different projects for a purpose different from the original purpose.

  Currently, various vending machines that sell products such as soft drinks are installed and used in streets and various facilities. In many cases, a business operator who sells products using a vending machine (hereinafter referred to as a vending machine company) is different from an owner of a place where the vending machine is installed. For example, if there is a vacant space in a store or general residential land, the vending machine contractor asks the owner of the store or residential land to place a vending machine, and if consent is obtained, contracts the vending machine. Is installed. In this case, the contract includes paying a part of the sales price of the product to the owner as a margin (a vending machine installation fee). The ownership of the vending machine lies with the vending machine vendor, and the vending machine vendor borrows space from the owner and operates. A vending machine vendor's route service person regularly visits the place where the vending machine is installed, replenishes the vending machine with goods, and collects the sales price.

  In such a vending machine, the vending machine may be used for an application different from the original purpose. One example is a so-called disaster response vending machine. A disaster-response vending machine is a vending machine that can provide products in a vending machine free of charge as a part of assistance to victims in the event of a major disaster such as a major earthquake. This type of vending machine can operate in a free mode in which goods are paid out free of charge. Switching from the normal payout mode (hereinafter referred to as the normal mode) to the free mode is possible by operating a keyhole provided on the front door of the vending machine. The control unit in the vending machine is connected to this keyhole, and has a function to switch to the free mode by operating the keyhole. The key for operating the keyhole (hereinafter referred to as the free mode key) is owned and managed by a person who performs some kind of management at the installation location of the vending machine. For example, what is installed at a facility of a local government is considered a disaster-response vending machine, and the manager of the facility owns and manages the free mode key. Switching to the free mode at the time of a disaster is performed at the discretion of the administrator, and the operation is assumed to be borne by the local public entity.

  On the other hand, as a technology filed by the applicant of the present application, a vending machine that provides products free of charge for hospitality to visitors as a technology filed by the applicant of this application. A technique is disclosed (Patent Document 1). This technology also enables free provision of products by switching from the normal mode to the free mode.

Japanese Patent No. 5506996

  The technique disclosed in Patent Document 1 assumes a vending machine installed in a specific business office. Although there are such vending machine installations and sales forms, many vending machines are installed in public places where people can freely come and go. Therefore, the user of the vending machine is not limited to a person belonging to a specific office, and various people use the vending machine.

Considering the use form of such a general vending machine, it is not used on the assumption that it is used only for a specific purpose (use) of a specific office, but is used for various purposes. Therefore, the optimal usage should be examined.
The invention of the present application has been made in view of this point, and is an automatic machine that is preferably used when a vending machine is used for a purpose different from its original purpose to perform a plurality of different projects. The problem to be solved is to provide a vending machine system.

In order to solve the above problems, the invention according to claim 1 of the present application is
At least one vending machine used for different projects carried out by different entities,
A general administrator computer, which is a computer operated by a general administrator present in at least one of a plurality of different business entities;
A transmitter for transmitting free mode request information;
A vending machine system including a storage unit,
Vending machines are operated and managed by vending machine vendors, and the vending machine's root service personnel replenish products and collect sales prices. Each of the different entities is a business other than vending machine vendors. Body,
Vending machines
A product container and a product delivery mechanism provided in the housing;
A plurality of product selection buttons provided on the front door, a product outlet, and a money input unit are provided.
In the housing, a vending machine control unit that controls the product dispensing mechanism according to the product selected by the product selection button and money inserted from the money input unit, and a project control unit are provided,
The vending machine control unit includes a mode control unit that switches between a normal mode and a free mode, and a mode return unit. The free mode is a mode in which a product is paid out free of charge. When switching from the normal mode to the free mode, after the product is paid out in the free mode, it automatically returns to the normal mode.
The project control unit is connected to the vending machine control unit and outputs a free mode command signal to the vending machine control unit. The mode control unit of the vending machine control unit outputs the free mode command signal from the project control unit. When switching from normal mode to free mode,
The project control unit includes a reception unit, a determination unit, a free mode command output unit, a performance information recording unit, and a data output unit.
Each general administrator is given the authority to issue a free user ID to users belonging to the business entity, and the general administrator computer is a computer that can store the free user ID in the storage unit. ,
The free user ID is information that can identify the user who receives the product in the free mode, and can identify the business entity to which the general administrator who issued the free user ID belongs,
The receiving unit of the project control unit receives the free mode request information from the transmitting unit,
Whether the determination unit includes a free user ID in the free mode request information received by the receiving unit or whether the free user ID is included and the free user ID matches the free user ID stored in the storage unit Is to determine whether
The free mode command output unit determines whether the free mode ID is included in the free mode request information, or the free user ID includes the free user ID and the free user ID is stored in the storage unit. Is output to the vending machine control unit when the determination unit determines that it matches
When the free mode command signal is output, the performance information recording unit stores the free user ID and the number of items paid out in the free mode in the storage unit as performance information.
The data output unit is configured to output the record information stored in the storage unit to the outside.
In order to solve the above problem, according to a second aspect of the present invention, in the configuration of the first aspect, the transmission unit transmits free mode request information including a free user ID that is not stored in the storage unit. The free mode request information can be transmitted to the receiving unit only once.
In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 3 is the configuration according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit is a user computer operated by a user who receives a payout of goods in a free mode, Application software for transmitting free mode request information is installed, and the computer transmits the free mode request information to the receiving unit by short-range wireless communication.
The application software has a configuration in which the free mode request information can be transmitted only once.
In order to solve the above problem, according to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the configuration of the first aspect, the transmission unit transmits free mode request information including a free user ID stored in the storage unit. The free mode request information can be repeatedly transmitted to the receiving unit.
In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 5 is the configuration according to claim 4, wherein the transmission unit is a user computer operated by a user who receives a payout of goods in a free mode, Application software for transmitting free mode request information is installed, and the computer transmits the free mode request information to the receiving unit by short-range wireless communication.
The application software has a configuration in which the free mode request information can be repeatedly transmitted.
In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 6 is the configuration according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The storage unit is provided in the project control unit,
The receiving unit and the general administrator computer are capable of short-range wireless communication, and the general administrator computer can transmit a free user ID by short-range wireless communication and store it in the storage unit. It has a configuration that there is.
In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 7 is the configuration according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the receiving unit is connected to the Internet.
The general administrator computer has a configuration in which a free user ID can be transmitted via the Internet and stored in the storage unit of the project control unit.
In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, according to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the configuration according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, the data output unit performs the replenishment of goods in the vending machine and the collection of the sales price. The record information is output to a computer operated by a route serviceman of a vending machine supplier.
In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 9 is the configuration according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the record information unit records the record information in a record information file, and stores the record information file. Storing in the storage unit,
The record information file has a configuration such that the record information file is created in a state where the contents cannot be modified except that record information is added and recorded.
In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 10 is the configuration according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein a plurality of the vending machines are provided, and the plurality of vending machines are different by different vending machine vendors. Are managed,
A settlement computer is provided that processes the performance information output by the data output unit to calculate the payment amount for each vending machine supplier and charges the price for providing the product in the free mode for each business unit,
The performance information recording unit is configured to record the performance information in a state where it is possible to identify a vending machine operator that manages and manages the vending machine for which the product has been paid out in the free mode.

As will be described below, according to the invention described in claim 1 of the present application, a free mode of one vending machine is used for a plurality of different projects performed by a plurality of different business entities, and a product can be paid out free of charge. Therefore, it has the effect of greatly contributing to the increase in sales of vending machine operators.
In addition, the free user ID is information that can identify the user and the information that can identify the business entity that issued the free user ID. Claims on the body can be made easily and correctly.
In addition, each entity uses the vending machine's free mode to carry out the project, so there is no need to purchase, store, or provide products, greatly reducing human and administrative costs. There is an effect.
According to the invention described in claim 2, in addition to the above-described effects, the product is paid out only once in the free mode, instead of determining whether the user ID matches the free user ID registered in the storage unit. Since a limited configuration is possible, it is possible to use the general administrator without having to register a free user ID in the project control unit. For this reason, it is particularly suitable when the general manager is located away from the installation location of the vending machine.
According to the invention described in claim 3, in addition to the above effect, since the transmission unit is a user computer, it can be realized at low cost and easily compared with a configuration in which information is read from a medium such as a card and transmitted. .
According to the invention described in claim 4, in addition to the above-mentioned effects, the product can be paid out repeatedly in the free mode with a single free user ID. It is particularly suitable when necessary.
According to the invention described in claim 5, in addition to the above effect, since the transmission unit is a user computer, it can be realized at low cost and easily compared with a configuration in which information is read from a medium such as a card and transmitted. .
According to the invention described in claim 6, in addition to the above effect, a storage unit is provided in the project control unit, and a general administrator transmits a free user ID to the project control unit by short-range wireless communication. Since it is stored in the storage unit, the project control unit does not need to have an environment for connecting to the Internet, and the running cost can be reduced in this respect.
According to the invention of claim 7, in addition to the above effects, the general administrator can transmit the free user ID via the Internet and store it in the storage unit. It is particularly suitable when located at a remote location.
Further, according to the invention described in claim 8, in addition to the above effects, the vending machine company can collect the record information at the time of the route service, and it is not necessary to perform it via the Internet. For this reason, it is simple and the communication cost is not required, so the running cost can be reduced.
Further, according to the invention described in claim 9, in addition to the above effects, the performance information cannot be modified, so that the credibility of the billing for paying out the product in the free mode is increased.
According to the invention described in claim 10, in addition to the above effect, it is possible to easily identify which vending machine of which vending machine the item is paid out in the free mode. Becomes easy.

It is a schematic diagram of a vending machine system concerning an embodiment. It is a perspective schematic diagram of the vending machine 1 with which the system shown in FIG. 1 is provided. FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of the vending machine 1 shown in FIG. 2 with a front door 12 opened. It is a control block diagram of the vending machine 1 with which the system of the embodiment is provided. It is the conceptual diagram shown about the issue authority of free user ID. It is the figure which showed notionally an example of free user ID. It is the schematic which showed an example of the structure of general administrator DBF. It is the schematic shown about the example of the structure of the FUID management file. It is the flowchart which showed the outline of the program in a unit. It is the schematic which showed an example of the structure of a track record information file. It is the schematic of the vending machine system of 2nd embodiment. It is the schematic which showed an example of the structure of the database file for payment. It is the schematic which showed an example of the structure of the database file for a claim.

Next, modes for carrying out the present invention (hereinafter referred to as embodiments) will be described.
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a vending machine system according to an embodiment. The vending machine system shown in FIG. 1 includes at least one vending machine 1, a plurality of general administrator computers 2, a transmission unit that transmits free mode request information, and a storage unit 42. Yes.
The vending machine 1 is a soft drink vending machine 1 in this embodiment. However, in the present invention, the vending machine 1 is not limited to this type. The vending machine 1 is operated and managed by a vending machine supplier, and replenishment of goods and collection of sales price are performed by the vending machine supplier.

  In the embodiment, the vending machine 1 is used for a plurality of different projects performed by a plurality of different business entities. An entity here is an entity other than a vending machine supplier. The business entity is typically assumed to be a business company, but may be an organization other than the business company (for example, a local public entity, a non-profit corporation, a religious corporation, etc.). In addition, a plurality of different departments in one business company may correspond to “a plurality of different business entities”. For example, a sales department and a general affairs department of a company may correspond to “a plurality of different business entities”. Therefore, “business” is a broad concept including “business”.

FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the vending machine 1 included in the system shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the vending machine 1 includes a housing 11 and a front door 12 provided on the front surface of the housing 11. FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of the vending machine 1 shown in FIG. 2 with the front door 12 opened.
As shown in FIG. 2, the housing 11 is provided with a product storage unit 111 that stores soft drinks in cans or PET bottles to be sold. As shown in FIG. 2, on the front door 12, an exhibition unit 121 displaying a sample of products, each product selection button 122 for selecting a product to purchase, a money input unit 123 for inserting coins and banknotes for purchase, A take-out port 124 for taking out a purchased product, a change payout unit 125, and the like are provided. The money insertion unit 123 includes a coin mech and a bill validator, and determines whether the inserted coin or bill is genuine. If it is authentic, the type and total amount are calculated.

  In addition, a control unit (hereinafter referred to as a vending machine control unit) 3 that controls the operation of the vending machine 1 is provided in the housing 11. As shown in FIG. 3, the vending machine control unit 3 is fixed to the back surface of the front door 12. The vending machine control unit 3 has a structure in which each unit such as a processor and a memory is accommodated in a unit box, and determines whether or not the money inserted by the money insertion unit 123 has reached a prescribed amount. is there.

  On the other hand, the product storage unit 111 includes a payout mechanism 14 that pays out products one by one in accordance with a signal from the vending machine control unit 3, and the vending machine control unit 3 indicates that the inserted money has reached a predetermined amount. When the determination is made, a signal is sent to the payout mechanism 14 to pay out the selected product to the takeout port 124. The structure and the structure of these mechanisms can be the same as those of the ordinary vending machine 1.

  FIG. 4 is a control block diagram of the vending machine 1 provided in the system of the embodiment. The vending machine 1 can operate in the free mode, similar to the disaster response vending machine described above, and the vending machine control unit 3 can control by switching between the normal mode and the free mode. ing. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, a mode control unit 31 is provided in the vending machine control unit 3. Further, the front door 12 is provided with a free mode key hole 151 (not shown in FIG. 2), and the free mode key hole 151 is connected to the mode control unit 31 in the vending machine control unit 3.

  When the free mode keyhole 151 is operated, the normal mode is manually switched to the free mode. In the free mode, each product selection button 122 is lit without any money being inserted, and the product is paid out by pressing any product selection button 122. The vending machine 1 in this embodiment is a diversion of this disaster response vending machine.

Further, as shown in FIG. 4, the vending machine control unit 3 includes a mode return unit 32.
The mode return unit 32 is a part that sends a normal mode return signal to the vending machine control unit 3 after a predetermined time has elapsed after the free mode command signal is transmitted and the product is paid out in the free mode. The normal mode return signal is the same signal that is output when the free mode keyhole is operated in the reverse direction. The mode return unit 32 includes a setting circuit for setting a time until return, a timer circuit, a port for outputting a return signal, and the like.

  The vending machine control unit 3 includes an output port (hereinafter referred to as a payout number output port) 33 that outputs “1” when the payout of the product is completed. The payout number output port 33 is usually used for managing the total payout number of products in the vending machine 1, but the mode return unit 32 monitors the value of the payout number output port 33. After shifting to the free mode, when the count of the payout number output port 33 increases by one, the mode return unit 32 starts the timer circuit, and automatically enters the normal mode when the time set in the setting circuit has elapsed. A signal to be returned is output to the mode control unit 31. Note that the time to return is an arbitrary time, for example, up to about 30 seconds (including 0 seconds), but in the following description, the return time is assumed to be 0 seconds as an example.

  As shown in FIG. 4, such a vending machine 1 is equipped with a project control unit 4. As shown in FIG. 3, the project control unit 4 is housed in the housing 11. The project control unit 4 is a control unit for using the free mode function of the vending machine 1 for a plurality of different projects.

  In the system of the embodiment, the free mode is used according to the purpose of each project. For example, in a certain business entity, it is performed for free provision of a product in the vending machine 1 as an incentive (prize) for a customer for the purpose of sales promotion (promotion). Further, in another business entity, it is performed to provide the employee with the inside of the vending machine 1 free of charge as part of the employee welfare. In yet another business entity, it is performed in order to provide products in the vending machine 1 free of charge as part of hospitality (ceremonies) for visitors.

  The product delivery in the free mode requires approval that the product can be delivered in the free mode, and this determination is made in the project control unit 4. In this embodiment, an ID (hereinafter referred to as a free user ID) that permits the delivery of a product in the free mode is issued, and this free user ID is registered in the project control unit 4. The user who wishes to pay out the product in the free mode transmits the free mode request information to the project control unit 4 by the transmission unit, and if it is determined that the correct free user ID has been transmitted, the free Approved for use in the mode, products are paid out free of charge.

  In this embodiment, “a correct free user ID” is transmitted, and in this embodiment, there are two different patterns. One is a case where the transmitted free mode request information includes an ID that matches the free user ID stored in the storage unit. This is a pattern in the case where the free user ID is an ID that can be paid out for free without any particular limitation. Hereinafter, this pattern is referred to as a standard type. Another pattern is a pattern in which the free user ID is a one-time free payout. In this case, as long as the free user ID is included in the free mode request information, use in the free mode is approved without any particular verification. Hereinafter, this pattern is referred to as a one-time limited type.

In the system of the embodiment, the free user ID is issued according to a hierarchical authentication system. First, this point will be described. FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram showing the authority to issue a free user ID.
As shown in FIG. 5, in this embodiment, the senior administrator basically has the authority to issue a free user ID. However, it is the general administrator who actually issues the free user ID, and the senior administrator gives the general administrator the authority to issue the free user ID.

  The senior manager is assumed to be a vending machine operator. The general administrator belongs to the business entity. It is assumed that each entity has at least one general manager. That is, in the system of this embodiment, the vending machine supplier gives the authority to issue a free user ID to each business unit, and each business unit issues a free user ID to each user based on this authority. Each user is provided with a product in the free mode by the given free user ID.

Given the above points, a specific technical configuration will be described below. First, the free user ID will be described. FIG. 6 is a diagram conceptually illustrating an example of the free user ID.
In this embodiment, the free user ID is information for identifying the individual user and information for identifying the business entity that issued the free user ID. Specifically, the free user ID is information combining alphanumeric characters, but has a personal identification unit that identifies an individual user and an issuer identification unit that identifies an issued general administrator. The issuer specifying part is a general administrator ID. The general manager belongs to one of the business entities, and the issued business entity is specified by the general manager ID.

Such a general manager ID is centrally managed by a computer 51 (hereinafter referred to as a senior manager computer) operated by the senior manager. The storage unit of the senior administrator computer 51 stores a general administrator DBF that is a database file in which information of each general administrator is recorded.
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the structure of the general administrator DBF. As shown in FIG. 7, the general manager DBF is a database file in which a large number of records including fields such as “business entity name”, “business entity ID”, and “general manager ID” are recorded.

  Vending machine contracts with each entity. This contract includes the payment amount to the vending machine trader per product, which is paid out free of charge by the free user ID issued by the general manager belonging to the business entity. After this contract, the vending machine company issues a general manager ID to the business entity. Then, a free user ID in which the general administrator ID is incorporated is issued from the general administrator to the user, and the user is provided with a product free of charge by the free user ID.

  As shown in FIG. 5, one general administrator usually issues free user IDs to a plurality of users. In accordance with the number of issued free user IDs, the number of items paid out free of charge increases, and the burden on the business entity increases. The general manager issues a free user ID based on the judgment of the business entity in consideration of this point.

A specific technical configuration for free provision of products performed in the above scheme will be described below.
First, the project control unit 4 in the vending machine 1 will be described. The product is provided free of charge by operating the vending machine 1 in the above-described free mode. This is done by outputting a free mode command signal to the vending machine control unit 3 when the project control unit 4 determines that the free user ID has been correctly received.

  More specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the project control unit 4 includes a reception unit 41, a storage unit 42, a determination unit 43, a free mode command output unit 44, a record information recording unit 45, And a data output unit 46. That is, in this embodiment, the storage unit 42 is provided in the project control unit 4. A free user ID is stored in the storage unit 42 as necessary, and the receiving unit 41 receives free mode request information that may include a free user ID.

  As shown in FIG. 4, a free mode command output unit 44 of the project control unit 4 is connected to the mode control unit 31 in the vending machine control unit 3. The free mode command output unit 44 outputs a free mode command signal to the mode control unit 31 according to the determination result of the determination unit 43. The free mode command signal is the same signal as when the free mode keyhole 151 is operated.

The storage unit 42 is a nonvolatile memory or a small hard disk. The free user ID is recorded in a file (hereinafter abbreviated as FUID file), and this file is stored in the storage unit 42. The FUID file is a general-purpose file such as CSV.
The recording of the free user ID in the FUID file means registration of a free user ID in the vending machine 1 (registration that the vending machine 1 can be used in the free mode), and is therefore performed by a general administrator. That is, the general administrator computer 2 transmits the free user ID to the receiving unit 41. There are two modes for this. One is a mode in which the general manager computer 2 recognizes the project control unit 4 as a peripheral device and writes a free user ID, and the general manager computer 2 communicates with the project control unit 4 via a network such as the Internet 100. Communication and writing a free user ID. Although both have merits and demerits, first, the former aspect will be described.

  The general administrator computer 2 is a mobile computer such as a smartphone or a tablet PC in one aspect. In this case, application software 21 for writing a free user ID (hereinafter referred to as FUID writing application) 21 is downloaded to the general administrator computer 2 and can be executed by the general administrator computer 2.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the FUID writing application 21 is downloaded from a server (hereinafter referred to as a vending machine vendor server) 5 operated by a vending machine vendor. In a typical embodiment, the vending machine supplier server 5 has established a site for operating this system (hereinafter referred to as a vending machine system operation site). In this site, when the general administrator ID is input and logged in, the site is constructed so that the FUID writing application 21 is downloaded. The storage unit 42 of the vending machine supplier server 5 stores a program file of the FUID writing application 21 and a file of its installation program. Since these configurations can be realized by a known server technology, a detailed description thereof will be omitted. When the FUID writing application 21 is downloaded and installed in the general administrator computer 2, the general administrator ID is set as a constant in the FUID writing application 21.

In this aspect, the general administrator computer 2 is configured to write a free user ID by short-range wireless communication. Specifically, in this embodiment, the receiving unit 41 is configured to be able to receive data by Bluetooth communication and includes a Bluetooth interface 40 (Bluetooth is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc.). ).
The receiving unit 41 includes an antenna 411 for near field communication. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the antenna 411 is fixed to the upper surface of the housing 11, and is connected to the receiving unit 41 by a wiring (not shown) provided through the housing 11. Since the housing 11 is made of a strong metal, the antenna 411 is provided outside the housing 11 so as not to hinder wireless communication.

On the other hand, the general administrator computer 2 is a mobile computer such as a smartphone or a tablet PC, and includes a Bluetooth interface 20 as a standard. The FUID writing application 21 is programmed to recognize the project control unit 4 as a peripheral device of the general administrator computer 2, open a FUID file, and record a free user ID in the FUID file.
At this time, the FUID writing application 21 automatically generates a free user ID and writes it in the FUID file while incorporating the general administrator ID set as a constant. The FUID application allows the general administrator to input personal information such as name, affiliation / attribute, etc. in the general administrator computer 2 so that the free user ID can be specified to whom. . The information input here is recorded in a management file (hereinafter referred to as FUID management file) 22 stored in the storage unit of the general administrator computer 2.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the structure of the FUID management file 22. As shown in FIG. 8, the FUID management file 22 is a database file, and records composed of fields such as “free user ID”, “name”, “affiliation / attribute” are recorded for the issued free user ID. File.
When the free user ID is written, the FUID writing application 21 displays a page having input fields such as “name” and “affiliation / attribute” on the general administrator computer 2, and a send button is displayed on this page. Is provided. The send button is an activation button of a writing module, and when the send button is tapped, a free user ID is automatically generated and stored in the storage unit 42 of the project control unit 4, and the FUID management file A new record is added to 22 and the FUID writing application 21 is programmed so that information such as the generated free user ID and the input name is recorded.

  The information in the “affiliation / attribute” field varies depending on the type of project. For example, when the project is a variety of work in a business company, the “affiliation / attribute” field is the department to which the employee who has been given the free user ID belongs. Further, when sales promotion performed by a certain business entity for a customer is a project, the “affiliation / attribute” may be information indicating that the customer is a customer or information on the type of customer.

  The general administrator notifies the user of the free user ID written in the project control unit 4 in this way. The notification is assumed to be communicated by e-mail, but may be communicated by memo or verb. Note that the FUID writing application 21 may include a program for automatically generating an e-mail for notifying a user at the issue destination of a free user ID. As described above, the free user ID is written in the project control unit 4 and the user is notified of the free user ID, thereby completing the issuance of the free user ID.

In the case of the standard type, the free user ID issued in this way is referred to in the determination unit 43 when the free mode request information is received, and an ID that matches the written free user ID is included in the free mode request information. If it is, the free mode command signal is output. Hereinafter, the technical configuration for this operation will be described.
In this embodiment, the transmission unit that transmits the free mode request information is a mobile computer (hereinafter referred to as user computer) 6 operated by the user. The user computer 6 can also be a smartphone or a tablet PC. Therefore, the user computer 6 also includes the Bluetooth interface 60 as a standard for short-range wireless communication.

  The user downloads application software (hereinafter referred to as a “free mode request transmission application”) 61 for transmitting the free mode request information to the user computer 6 and makes it executable. The free mode request transmission application 61 can be downloaded from the aforementioned vending machine system operation site. At this time, the user logs in to the vending machine system operation site with the notified free user ID. When the login is completed (when the free user ID is authenticated), the free mode request transmission application 61 can be downloaded. Again, the application is downloaded with the free user ID set as a constant in the free mode request transmission application.

  The free mode request transmission application is an application program that recognizes the project control unit 4 as a Bluetooth device and transmits free mode request information. In this embodiment, two different types of free mode request transmission applications are assumed. One is an application 61 corresponding to the standard type. This is an application that includes a free user ID, and in which the determination unit 43 determines whether there is a free user ID that matches the storage unit 42. Hereinafter, this application 61 is referred to as a standard request application. The other is an application 62 corresponding to the one-time limited type. This is an application that includes a free user ID, but does not determine whether there is a free user ID that matches the storage unit 42, and only records the results of free payout with the free user ID. Hereinafter, this application 62 is referred to as a one-time limited request application.

  The determination unit 43 includes a processor included in the project control unit 4 and an installed program (hereinafter, “in-unit program”). Since the determination unit 43 does not perform complicated processing, it can be realized by a simple device such as a one-chip microcomputer into which a program can be written. In addition, various types of Bluetooth-compatible network processors are commercially available as a configuration including the receiving unit 41 and the determining unit 43, and can be appropriately selected and used. In such a configuration, an in-unit program is implemented.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an outline of the in-unit program. As shown in FIG. 9, the in-unit program determines whether the information received by the receiving unit 41 is free mode request information. For example, the first few bids of a series of codes are allocated as a part for determining whether or not it is free mode request information (hereinafter referred to as an identification part), and the code is configured so as to make the determination. In this case, the identification unit can also identify whether the request information is transmitted from the standard request application 61 or the request information transmitted from the one-time request application 62.

As shown in FIG. 9, the in-unit program processes the received free mode request information and determines whether it is free mode request information. If it is free mode request information, it is determined which type of application the request information is from. If the request information is from the one-time limited request application 62, the free user ID included in the request information is acquired and the free mode command output unit 44 outputs the free mode command signal as it is.
Further, in the case of request information from the standard request application 61, after acquiring the free user ID, it is determined whether there is a match among the free user IDs stored in the storage unit. If there is a match, a free mode command signal is output. The in-unit program is programmed so that such processing is performed.

  Note that the determination unit 43 may be provided on the user computer 6 side. In this case, the free mode information transmission application is programmed so that the CPU of the user computer 6 determines whether there is a matching free user ID in the FUID. When the free mode information transmission application determines that the free user IDs match, a free mode command signal is output from the free mode designation output unit. However, in this case, if a free mode information transmission application is altered so that the free user ID is not included or the free mode command signal is output regardless of the mismatch, it cannot be handled. Therefore, in the output of the free mode command signal, it is desirable that the project control unit 4 side is a master (not a slave) to make an autonomous determination.

  The connection between the free mode signal output unit and the mode control unit 31 of the vending machine control unit 3 may be a wired connection or a short-range wireless connection. In the former case, the connection is made by wiring provided in the casing of the vending machine 1. In the latter case, the mode control unit 31 is provided with a Bluetooth interface. The free mode signal output may be a simple output port of 0 or 1, and is normally 0, and may be a port that outputs 1 when a free mode command signal is output. The mode control unit 31 constantly monitors the value of the free mode command signal output unit, and when it is switched to 1, the vending machine control unit 3 is switched to the free mode as if the free mode keyhole was operated. It is supposed to be configured.

Next, the performance information recording unit 45 of the project control unit 4 will be described.
When the free mode command signal is output, the record information recording unit 45 stores the free user ID and the number of items paid out in the free mode in the storage unit 42 as payout result information. In this embodiment, the record information recording unit 45 is configured by a processor included in the project control unit 4 and an installed in-unit program, like the determination unit 43. As shown in FIG. 9, when the free user ID matches and the free mode command signal is output, the in-unit program stores the free user ID, the program operation date and time, and the number of payouts in the storage unit 42. It is programmed as such.

Specifically, the storage unit 42 stores a record information record file (hereinafter, record information file). FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the structure of the record information file. The record information file is also a general-purpose database file such as CSV. As shown in FIG. 8, the record information file is a database file in which records including fields such as “free user ID”, “date and time”, and “number” are recorded. In this example, since only one product is paid out free of charge by one transmission of the free mode request information, 1 is always recorded in the “number” field. The in-unit program is programmed so that when a free mode command signal is output, a new record is added to the result information file, and information in each field is recorded to update the file.
The record information file is created as a file that cannot be modified except that the record information is added and recorded by the in-unit program. That is, the access right including the content modification is given only to the in-unit program.

Next, the data output unit 46 will be described.
The data output unit 46 is provided so that the record information stored in the storage unit 42 can be output to the outside. In this embodiment, in this embodiment, the data output unit 46 is configured by a Bluetooth interface 40 as a short-range wireless communication interface, like the receiving unit 41. The data output unit 46 includes a profile such as authentication (pairing) with an external Bluetooth device and file transfer. The data output unit 46 can transfer the record information file to an external Bluetooth device by Bluetooth communication. At this time, the data output unit 46 is configured to transfer the record information file only to the other party authenticated by the passkey.

Next, an operation (use example) of the vending machine system according to the embodiment will be described.
As described above, it is assumed that the vending machine system of the embodiment is used for a plurality of different projects performed by a plurality of different business entities. In the following description, it is assumed that there is a company A, for example, and this company uses the vending machine system according to the embodiment as part of a certain promotion. Here, promotion is a project. In addition to company A, there is a company called B, in which the vending machine system of the embodiment is used as a hospitality (customer service) at the time of visitor, and the vending machine of the embodiment is used as a welfare program for employees. Machine system is used. Therefore, in the following explanation, in the following explanation to promote, it means a plurality of projects with different promotions, customer service, and benefits.

  A more specific example of the usage pattern of Company A is to promote customer actions on the website, such as download of some application, registration of e-mail address, user registration with SNS, member registration with the site, etc. For this purpose, the system of the embodiment is used. In this case, Company A operates a server 60 (hereinafter referred to as a project server) for causing such actions to be performed on the website. The project server 60 includes a one-time limited request application 62 among the free mode request applications. When the predetermined action of the customer on the website is completed, the project server 60 causes the customer to download the one-time limited request application 62. More specifically, for example, when an e-mail address is registered on a certain website, the vending machine 1 notifies the customer that one soft drink can be obtained free of charge. The customer inputs and transmits an e-mail address together with personal information such as name and address in his / her mobile computer (user computer) 6 such as a smartphone or tablet PC. Accordingly, a button for downloading the one-time limited request application 62 is displayed, and when the button is tapped, the one-time limited request application 62 is downloaded to the user computer 6.

  At this time, a free user ID is automatically generated and set as a constant in the one-time limited request application 62 to be downloaded. The project server 60 is constructed so that such a download is performed. In the above-mentioned website operated and managed by Company A, naturally, information such as name and e-mail address input and transmitted by each customer is recorded in the database file 63 and managed. Therefore, the free user ID set when the one-time limited request application 62 is downloaded is information that can identify an individual user. As an example other than the above, there may be a configuration in which a mail is transmitted to a registered electronic mail address and a download URL (hyperlink) is described in the mail.

The user who downloaded the one-time limited request application 62 goes to the vending machine 1 and executes the one-time limited request application 62 using his / her mobile computer 6. Thereby, the free mode request information is transmitted to the project control unit 4 by Bluetooth communication, and the free mode command output unit 44 in the project control unit 4 outputs the free mode command to the vending machine control unit 3. As a result, the vending machine 1 shifts to the free mode, and the customer receives a free delivery of the product. When the delivery of the product is completed, the mode control unit 31 immediately returns to the normal mode.
Since the free mode request transmission application here is the one-time limited request application 62, this application is automatically disabled after the application is executed. For example, the app is programmed to be automatically removed from the mobile computer, or the icon is grayed out and changed to a non-executable state.

  For Company B, the FUID writing application 21 prepared as a standard type at the vending machine vendor site is used. In this case, if the department that handles customer service is the sales department, the general administrator who belongs to the sales department downloads the FUID writing application 21 to the general administrator computer 2. At this time, this general administrator ID is issued. The general administrator operates the general administrator computer 2 to execute the FUID writing application 21 and issues a free user ID to each sales staff member.

  Each sales staff member downloads the standard request application 61 to his / her user computer 6. At this time, the user's free user ID is set in the standard request application 61. Then, when there is a visitor, the standard request application 61 is executed, and free mode request information is transmitted. As a result, the free mode request information is received by the project control unit 4 and a free mode command is output from the free mode command output unit 44. Similarly, the vending machine 1 shifts to the free mode, and the sales staff obtains soft drinks free of charge and provides them to customers who have visited the company.

In addition, another general manager of Company B who belongs to the general affairs department in charge of the welfare program also downloads the FUID writing application 21 to his general manager computer 2. Similarly, a general manager ID is issued for this general manager. The general administrator executes the FUID writing application 21 on the general administrator computer 2 and issues a free user ID as appropriate for the benefit program. For example, in an event such as an in-house athletic meet, a collective role is determined for each department, a free user ID is issued to the person, and an appropriate number of soft drinks are paid out free of charge. Similarly, each summary translation downloads the standard request application 61 to its own user computer 6, receives the required number of soft drinks free of charge, and distributes it to each member.
The vending machine system according to the embodiment is considered to be used as an example.

Next, the adjustment of the free payout cost in the vending machine system of the embodiment used in this way will be described.
As described above, in each project, the user receives a payout of the product from the vending machine 1 free of charge. This cost will be borne by each entity. The vending machine company calculates the number of free payments for each business unit and issues a bill to each business unit.
More specifically, a route serviceman of a vending machine company performs a mobile computer such as a smartphone or a tablet PC (hereinafter referred to as a route service computer) during a route service for replenishing goods to the vending machine 1 and collecting a price. Bring 7 The route service computer 7 is installed with a program (hereinafter referred to as a record information reading program) 71 for reading record information from the project control unit 4.

  A vending machine company owns and manages a large number of vending machines 1. Therefore, the vending machine system of the embodiment actually includes a plurality or a large number of vending machines 1. Each vending machine 1 is given a management ID (hereinafter, vending machine ID). The record information file has a file name using a vending machine ID so that the record information in which vending machine 1 is specified.

  Similarly, the route service computer 7 includes a Bluetooth interface 70. The record information file stored in the storage unit 42 of the project control unit 4 requires a pass key when read. A passkey is set in the record information reading program 71, and it is programmed to read the contents of the record information file while transmitting the passkey to the receiving unit 41 of the project control unit 4. The passkey may be the same for each vending machine 1.

  The record information reading program 71 is programmed to copy the record information file as it is and store it in the storage unit 42 of the route service computer 7. A settlement computer 8 is provided in the office of the vending machine company. After returning to the office after completing the route service, the route service man further copies the copied record information file to the settlement computer 8. A record information file copied from the project control unit 4 of each vending machine 1 is stored in the storage unit 42 of the settlement computer 8.

  A settlement program is installed in the settlement computer 8. The person in charge of expense billing at the vending machine company executes the billing program by the billing computer 8 and bills the cost about once a month. That is, the settlement program opens each performance information file and totals the number of payouts in the free mode for each business entity. Then, the total invoiced amount is calculated by multiplying the consideration of the number of free payments agreed with each business entity, and an invoice is issued. When there are a plurality of business entities in a single corporation, there may be a case where the total charge amount of these business entities is calculated and charged.

When calculating the amount charged, the settlement program analyzes the free user ID recorded in each record of the record information file, and identifies which business unit is the free mode payout. That is, the checkout program identifies the general administrator ID from the free user ID, and searches the general administrator DBF using the general administrator ID as a search key, thereby identifying the business entity to which the general administrator belongs. Identify.
From the contents of the result information file, it is possible to list how many free products have been paid out by which free user ID. The reimbursement program can create this list as expense reconciliation details and attach it to the bill for each entity.

According to the vending machine system of the embodiment according to the above-described configuration, the free mode of one vending machine 1 is used for a plurality of different projects performed by a plurality of different business entities, and free delivery of products is performed. Dispensing products in the free mode is the same as selling regular products for vending machines, and thus has the effect of greatly contributing to an increase in sales.
In addition, the free user ID when the free mode command signal is output is recorded in the result information file in the charge for paying out the product in the free mode, and the free user ID is information that can identify the user. Since it is also information that can identify the general administrator who issued the issue, it is easy to count the number and charge the cost. The invention of the present application can also be understood as an invention of a vending machine system including the settlement computer 8.

For each business entity, since the free mode of the vending machine 1 is used for the execution of each project, there is a burden of consideration, but labor (labor costs) can be made much cheaper. For example, if the project is a promotion, it is only necessary to prepare a limited app on the server and let the user download it. This type of promotion is performed by presenting some kind of prize, but if it is not according to the embodiment, it is necessary to mail the prize or present it at a window, which takes time and cost. According to the embodiment, such effort and cost are not required, and the cost can be significantly reduced.
In addition, for projects such as customer service and benefits, the products are always prepared in the vending machine 1, and there is no need to purchase and store the products. Since it is only necessary to set a general administrator and issue a free user ID, it is extremely simple.

  Assuming a more specific use situation of the vending machine system of the embodiment, it is assumed that the vending machine 1 is installed in a certain business company. In this case, the vending machine 1 is used for free delivery of soft drinks for customer service by using a user computer 6 by a customer-facing employee when visiting the customer. In addition, soft drinks are provided free of charge as benefits for events such as in-house sports events or overtime. Even in such a case, the company does not need to purchase and store such a soft drink for the benefit in advance. In addition, since the vending machine 1 itself operates even in the normal mode, it can fulfill its original role of providing convenience for employees.

  For example, an employee personally downloads an app on a website and receives a free product as a free gift. The employee receives a free product for customer service, and also provides a free product as a benefit program. There is a case of receiving. In addition, in the vending machine 1 placed in the cafe corner of a building in which offices of different business companies are occupying, payout in a free mode may be performed for project execution in each of these different business companies. . These various usage forms are conceivable, and the vending machine system of the embodiment has high versatility, and therefore greatly contributes to the sales increase of the vending machine trader.

Further, since the data output unit 46 outputs the record information to the route service computer 7, the record information can be collected by the vending machine supplier at the time of the route service, and it is not necessary to perform it via the Internet. For this reason, it is simple and the communication cost is not required, so the running cost can be reduced.
Further, since the performance information is created as a file that cannot be modified except by the in-unit program adding and recording the performance information, it cannot be modified by each business entity, nor can it be modified by each vending machine supplier. For this reason, the credibility of the billing for the payout of the product in the free mode is increased.

Next, a vending machine system according to the second embodiment will be described.
FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of a vending machine system according to the second embodiment. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a brokerage company exists in addition to the vending machine trader and each business entity. An intermediary company is a company that mediates between each business entity and a vending machine supplier, and is a kind of agency.
As is well known, in the industry of soft drink vending machines 1, there are a plurality of vending machine vendors of a plurality of different beverage manufacturers. Therefore, it is assumed that a certain business company has a plurality of vending machines 1 of different vending machine companies. When the plurality of vending machine vendors use the vending machine system of the embodiment for the project of the business company, it is troublesome because they have to settle the expenses with each vending machine vendor. In addition, when the system of the embodiment is used for a project such as a promotion, not only the vending machine 1 of a specific vending machine trader but also many other vending machine traders can pay out free goods as free gifts. This is preferable because it is convenient for the user and the range of selection is widened. The system of the second embodiment takes these points into consideration.

Specifically, in the vending machine system according to the second embodiment, it is assumed that there are a plurality of vending machines 1 and that these vending machines 1 belong to different vending machine vendors. And in this embodiment, one free user ID can be used also about the vending machine 1 of a different vending machine trader.
More specifically, also in this embodiment, each vending machine 1 is provided with a project control unit 4, and the free user ID is written in the project control unit 4 by the general administrator computer 2. Then, upon receiving the transmission of the free mode request information from the user computer 6, it determines whether the free user ID matches according to the type of the free mode request information, and if it matches, outputs a free mode command signal to the vending machine management unit. That is, the project control unit 4 having basically the same configuration is built in the vending machine 1 of a different vending machine supplier.

  The system of this embodiment is different from the system of the second embodiment in the configuration for cost adjustment using the result information file. In the second embodiment, at each vending machine trader, a route service person replenishes the product and collects the price, and copies the result information file to the route service computer 7 at that time. Each vending machine 1 is given a vending machine ID, and the record information file has a file name corresponding to the vending machine ID. Therefore, it is possible to identify which vending machine 1 is the record information from the file name of the record information file.

  On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the settlement computer 9 is a computer operated by a person in charge of the brokerage company. In the second embodiment, the record information recorded in the record information file is information that can identify the vending machine 1 of the vending machine supplier that has paid out the product in each free mode. As a configuration for this, the configuration of the file name of the record information file is different. That is, in the second embodiment, the file name of the record information file is a file name that can specify the vending machine company. There are several possible configurations for this. For example, the vending machine ID is included in the vending machine ID. For example, when a vending machine supplier has an ID “GH5678” and the management number in the vending machine supplier is “VM0111” for the vending machine 1 operated and managed by the vending machine supplier, the embodiment The vending machine ID on the system is “GH5678-VM0111”. The file name of the record information file created by the vending machine 1 with the ID is GH5678-VM0111.dbf. In this way, the vending machine trader is specified by the file name. In addition, a configuration may be adopted in which a database file in which a vending machine ID and a vending machine vendor are recorded in association with each other is created in advance and the vending machine vendor is specified by searching this file.

  Each vending machine company sends each record information file copied by each route service person to each route service computer 7 from the in-house computer 81 to the intermediary company by e-mail attachment or file exchange service. The person in charge of the brokerage company opens each performance information file sent from each vending machine vendor, identifies the vending machine vendor, summarizes the contents, and pays each vending machine vendor on behalf of each business entity. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the structure of the payment database file 92 used for the payment.

  As shown in FIG. 12, the payment database file 92 records a large number of records including fields such as “vending machine ID”, “vending machine vendor ID”, “vending machine vendor name”, and “number of free modes”. The person in charge of the brokerage company opens each performance information file and counts the total number (the number of payouts in the free mode). Then, the totaled number is further totaled for each vending machine supplier to create a payment database file 92 shown in FIG. And based on this content, payment is made to each vending machine supplier. That is, among the records, the “free mode number” values of the records of the same vending machine vendor are added together, and the amount is paid to the vending machine vendor.

  On the other hand, the intermediary bills each business entity. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the structure of the billing database file 93 created at this time. As shown in FIG. 13, the billing database file 93 has a large number of records including fields such as “vending machine ID”, “installation location description”, “vending machine vendor ID”, “vending machine vendor name”, “number of free modes”, and the like. Recorded database file.

  In order to efficiently charge each business entity, a program (hereinafter referred to as a billing program) 91 is usually created and installed in the settlement computer 9. The billing program 91 opens each result information file, acquires the general manager ID from the “free user ID” of each record, and identifies the business entity to which the general manager belongs from the general manager ID. Then, the number of payouts in the free mode is counted and totaled for each business entity. The billing program 91 is programmed to perform all this processing on the performance information file and calculate the total number of payouts in the free mode for each business entity. By executing the billing program 91, a billing database file 93 as shown in FIG. 11 is created. The person in charge of the brokerage company charges each business entity based on the billing database file 93.

  As described above, in the second embodiment, each information file is recorded so that the vending machine dealer can be specified in each performance information file, so that the broker pays each vending machine dealer, or which vending machine dealer uses the free mode. It is easy to report to each business entity whether or not it has been used. In this embodiment as well, each performance information file cannot be altered by each vending machine supplier, and the credibility of billing is ensured.

In each embodiment described above, the communication between the general administrator computer 2 and the project control unit 4 is Bluetooth communication, but short-distance wireless communication of other standards such as infrared communication may be used.
A configuration other than short-distance wireless communication can also be adopted. For example, a wireless LAN interface may be provided in the project control unit 4 so that the wireless LAN is connected to the Internet 100. In this case, when there is no wireless LAN router near the place where the vending machine 1 is placed, the wireless LAN router is installed in the casing of the vending machine 1 or the upper surface of the casing.
When the project control unit is connected to the Internet 100 via a wireless LAN, the general administrator can write a free user ID via the Internet 100 from his / her desktop personal computer. For this reason, it is not necessary to go to the vending machine 1 with a mobile computer.
The connection between the route service computer 7 and the project control unit 4 may be a wired connection in which both are connected by a USB cable in addition to the short-range wireless communication.

In addition, when using the product provision in the free mode for promotion, in each of the above embodiments, the free mode product is provided only once, so the general administrator writes the free user ID to the project control unit 4. There was no need to do this. However, in consideration of counterfeiting of free user IDs, etc., even if a free mode product is provided only once, the free user ID is written in the project control unit 4 and the free mode product is provided only when the free user ID matches. A configuration to perform is preferable. However, in the case of a promotion, the general manager is usually in a place that is not related to the place where the vending machine 1 is placed (away from the place). Is troublesome. Therefore, a configuration in which a free user ID can be written via the Internet 100 is more preferable. In this case, the same free user ID can be easily written in the project control unit 4 of a large number of vending machines 1 on the street, and the user selects the vending machine 1 in a place where he / she can easily use the product for free. This is also preferable because it can be provided.
However, assuming communication via the Internet 100, if there is no free wireless LAN router available in the vicinity, there is a problem that a monthly communication fee is generated in the project control unit 4, and in terms of running cost, it has been described above. The embodiment is preferred.
Note that the connection of the project control unit 4 to the Internet 100 may be via a wired LAN. For example, when a vending machine is installed in a business company, it may be connected to the Internet 4 via a wired LAN in the business company.

In each of the above embodiments, the return time after the product is paid out in the free mode is 0 second, and only one product is paid out in one free mode. In some cases, there may be two or more. In this case, the return time is set to an appropriate time of about 5 to 30 seconds, and a plurality of products are paid out within this time. In this case, the in-unit program monitors the number-of-payout output port 33, obtains the number of products paid out in one free mode from the output of the port 33, and records the result information together with the free user ID. Record in the information file.
In addition, information on the number of items paid out can be added to the free user ID. In this case, the in-unit program monitors the payout number output port 33 of the vending machine control unit 3 and controls to return from the free mode to the paid mode when the increment of the count reaches the value in the free user ID. The signal is output to the vending machine control unit 3. The arrangement of a plurality of payouts is possible even with a one-time limited type. That is, although it is a one-time limited type, a plurality of items are paid out at a time free of charge.

  In each embodiment, the transmission unit that transmits the free mode request information is the user computer 6, but a transmission unit of a type that reads a medium carrying the free mode request information and transmits it to the project control unit 4 is adopted. It can happen. For example, the free mode request information including the free user ID is carried on an optically or magnetically readable card or IC card, and a card reader for reading information is provided on the front door of the vending machine 1. Is feasible. In this case, the general manager gives such a card to the user, while the free user ID carried on the card is previously written in the project control unit. However, in the case of a configuration that reads and transmits information from a medium such as a card, the vending machine 1 needs to be equipped with a reader, and it is necessary to create a card in advance and distribute it to the user. Cost and effort. The configuration by the user computer 6 is superior in that it does not require such cost and labor.

In each embodiment, the storage unit in which the free user ID is stored is the storage unit 42 provided in the project control unit 4. However, the storage unit 42 is provided in any place in the system, and is a general administrator computer. It is sufficient that the free user ID can be stored by 2, and it may be provided in a place other than in the project control unit 4. For example, a server for project management may be provided on the Internet 100, and a free user ID may be stored in a storage unit (such as a hard disk) of the server. In this case, the general administrator computer 2 may be a desktop personal computer, from which a free user ID may be transmitted and stored via the Internet 100. When the free user ID is stored in the storage unit of the server on the Internet 100, the determination unit 43 accesses the server via the Internet 100 and determines whether the free user ID matches the free user ID stored in the storage unit. become.
When a project management server is provided on the Internet 100, a record information file may also be stored in the storage unit of the server. In this case, the project control unit 4 is in an environment connected to the Internet 100, and the program in the unit is programmed to record the record information in the record information file on the server via the Internet 100. In some cases, the storage unit storing the free user ID and the storage unit storing the record information file are different.

  Further, when the record information is stored in the storage unit 42 in the project control unit 4, the capacity of the storage unit 42 cannot be so large. There is a possibility that the capacity of the storage unit 42 may be exceeded before reading. In order to avoid this problem, a program or hardware for checking the used capacity (or free capacity) of the storage unit 42 is provided in the project control unit 4, and the warning lamp is turned on when the used capacity exceeds 50%, for example. Such a configuration may be adopted. In this case, the route service person always reads out the record information file when the warning lamp is lit. It should be noted that when the used capacity of the storage unit 42 is full, it is configured to be overwritten from old information, or is configured not to be able to write more, but when the latter configuration is adopted, After the performance information file is read, processing for deleting the contents is performed.

  In each of the above embodiments, the vending machine 1 is the soft drink vending machine 1, but the present invention can be implemented even if it is a vending machine 1 for other products. It may be a vending machine 1 for various foods such as sweets and cup noodles, or may be a vending machine 1 that sells items such as toys.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Vending machine 11 Case 12 Front door 2 General administrator computer 20 Bluetooth interface 21 FUID writing application 3 Vending machine control unit 31 Mode control part 32 Mode return part 33 Discharge number output port 4 Project control unit 41 Receiving part 42 Storage part 43 Judgment unit 44 Free mode command output unit 45 Result information recording unit 46 Data output unit 5 Vending machine supplier server 6 User computer 61 Standard type request application 62 One-time limited type request application 60 Bluetooth interface 7 Route service man computer 71 Result information reading program 8 Checkout computer 9 Checkout computer

Claims (10)

At least one vending machine used for different projects carried out by different entities,
A general administrator computer, which is a computer operated by a general administrator present in at least one of a plurality of different business entities;
A transmitter for transmitting free mode request information;
A vending machine system including a storage unit,
Vending machines are operated and managed by vending machine vendors, and the vending machine's root service personnel replenish products and collect sales prices. Each of the different entities is a business other than vending machine vendors. Body,
Vending machines
A product container and a product delivery mechanism provided in the housing;
A plurality of product selection buttons provided on the front door, a product outlet, and a money input unit are provided.
In the housing, a vending machine control unit that controls the product dispensing mechanism according to the product selected by the product selection button and money inserted from the money input unit, and a project control unit are provided,
The vending machine control unit includes a mode control unit that switches between a normal mode and a free mode, and a mode return unit. The free mode is a mode in which a product is paid out free of charge. When switching from the normal mode to the free mode, after the product is paid out in the free mode, it automatically returns to the normal mode.
The project control unit is connected to the vending machine control unit and outputs a free mode command signal to the vending machine control unit. The mode control unit of the vending machine control unit outputs the free mode command signal from the project control unit. When switching from normal mode to free mode,
The project control unit includes a reception unit, a determination unit, a free mode command output unit, a performance information recording unit, and a data output unit.
Each general administrator is given authority to issue a free user ID to users belonging to the business entity, and the general administrator computer is a computer that can store the free user ID in the storage unit,
The free user ID is information that can identify the user who receives the product in the free mode, and can identify the business entity to which the general administrator who issued the free user ID belongs,
The receiving unit of the project control unit receives the free mode request information from the transmitting unit,
Whether the determination unit includes a free user ID in the free mode request information received by the receiving unit or whether the free user ID is included and the free user ID matches the free user ID stored in the storage unit Is to determine whether
The free mode command output unit determines whether the free mode ID is included in the free mode request information, or the free user ID includes the free user ID and the free user ID is stored in the storage unit. Is output to the vending machine control unit when the determination unit determines that it matches
When the free mode command signal is output, the performance information recording unit stores the free user ID and the number of items paid out in the free mode in the storage unit as performance information.
A vending machine system, wherein the data output unit outputs the performance information stored in the storage unit to the outside.   The transmitting unit transmits free mode request information including a free user ID that is not stored in the storage unit, and can transmit the free mode request information to the receiving unit only once. The vending machine system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The transmission unit is a user computer operated by a user who receives a payout of a product in a free mode, installed with application software for transmitting the free mode request information, and the free mode request information is transmitted by the short-range wireless communication A computer that transmits to the receiver,
3. The vending machine system according to claim 2, wherein the application software can transmit the free mode request information only once.   The transmitting unit transmits free mode request information including a free user ID stored in the storage unit, and is capable of repeatedly transmitting the free mode request information to the receiving unit. The vending machine system according to claim 1. The transmission unit is a user computer operated by a user who receives a payout of a product in a free mode, installed with application software for transmitting the free mode request information, and the free mode request information is transmitted by the short-range wireless communication A computer that transmits to the receiver,
5. The vending machine system according to claim 4, wherein the application software is capable of repeatedly transmitting the free mode request information. The storage unit is provided in the project control unit,
The receiving unit and the general administrator computer are capable of short-range wireless communication, and the general administrator computer can transmit a free user ID by short-range wireless communication and store it in the storage unit. The vending machine system according to claim 1, wherein the vending machine system is provided. The receiver is connected to the Internet;
6. The vending machine system according to claim 1, wherein the general administrator computer is capable of transmitting a free user ID via the Internet and storing the free user ID in the storage unit.   The data output unit outputs the result information to a computer operated by a route serviceman of the vending machine supplier that replenishes the product in the vending machine and collects the sales price. 8. Vending machine system according to 1-7. The track record information unit records the track record information in a track record information file, and stores the track record information file in the storage unit,
9. The vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the result information file is created in a state in which contents cannot be altered except that the result information recording unit records and adds the result information. system. A plurality of the vending machines are provided, and the plurality of vending machines are operated and managed by different vending machine companies,
A settlement computer is provided that processes the performance information output by the data output unit to calculate the payment amount for each vending machine supplier and charges the price for providing the product in the free mode for each business unit,
The performance information recording unit records the performance information in a state where it is possible to identify a vending machine operator that manages and manages the vending machine for which the product has been paid out in the free mode. The vending machine system according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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