CA1207411A - Article dispenser - Google Patents
Article dispenserInfo
- Publication number
- CA1207411A CA1207411A CA000419048A CA419048A CA1207411A CA 1207411 A CA1207411 A CA 1207411A CA 000419048 A CA000419048 A CA 000419048A CA 419048 A CA419048 A CA 419048A CA 1207411 A CA1207411 A CA 1207411A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- dispenser
- article
- unit
- article dispenser
- dispensing
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status 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 status listed.)
- Expired
Links
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F11/00—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles
- G07F11/46—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports
- G07F11/50—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted
- G07F11/54—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted about vertical axes
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q20/00—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols
- G06Q20/30—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols characterised by the use of specific devices or networks
- G06Q20/34—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols characterised by the use of specific devices or networks using cards, e.g. integrated circuit [IC] cards or magnetic cards
- G06Q20/342—Cards defining paid or billed services or quantities
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F7/00—Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus
- G07F7/02—Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by keys or other credit registering devices
- G07F7/025—Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by keys or other credit registering devices by means, e.g. cards, providing billing information at the time of purchase, e.g. identification of seller or purchaser, quantity of goods delivered or to be delivered
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F7/00—Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus
- G07F7/06—Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by returnable containers, i.e. reverse vending systems in which a user is rewarded for returning a container that serves as a token of value, e.g. bottles
- G07F7/069—Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by returnable containers, i.e. reverse vending systems in which a user is rewarded for returning a container that serves as a token of value, e.g. bottles by box-like containers, e.g. videocassettes, books
Abstract
ROGERS, BERESKIN & PARR
Title: ARTICLE DISPENSER
Inventor: JOHN NELSON CLINTON
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
An article dispenser has a storage unit for storing articles, such as video tapes or beverages. The dispenser includes a card reading unit. In use, a user inserts a credit card into this card reading unit, and the dispenser can then record appropriate charges on the user's account. A selection unit is provided for a user to select a desired article, the selection unit generating a signal representative of a desired article. A dispensing and receiving unit withdraws selected articles from the storage unit. It can also receive and check returned articles, and return these checked articles to the storage unit. The dispensing and receiving unit can include an arm capable of movement in 3 dimensions. A central processor unit is connected to the other units and determines on which account a charge is to be recorded from data supplied by the card reading unit. For each dispensed article, the central processor unit records a charge on the appropriate account, with a replacement charge being recorded if the article is not returned as indicated by the absence of a return signal from the dispensing and receiving unit.
Title: ARTICLE DISPENSER
Inventor: JOHN NELSON CLINTON
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
An article dispenser has a storage unit for storing articles, such as video tapes or beverages. The dispenser includes a card reading unit. In use, a user inserts a credit card into this card reading unit, and the dispenser can then record appropriate charges on the user's account. A selection unit is provided for a user to select a desired article, the selection unit generating a signal representative of a desired article. A dispensing and receiving unit withdraws selected articles from the storage unit. It can also receive and check returned articles, and return these checked articles to the storage unit. The dispensing and receiving unit can include an arm capable of movement in 3 dimensions. A central processor unit is connected to the other units and determines on which account a charge is to be recorded from data supplied by the card reading unit. For each dispensed article, the central processor unit records a charge on the appropriate account, with a replacement charge being recorded if the article is not returned as indicated by the absence of a return signal from the dispensing and receiving unit.
Description
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This invention relates to an article dispenser. This invention more particularly relates to a dispenser capable of dispensing articles and receiving returned articles. This invention is also more particularly conc~rned with a dispenser, which is actuated by a credit card and which can charge for the sale or rental of an article to an appropriate credit account.
A wide variety of dispensing or vending machines are known. Simple machines dispense a single type of axticle at a fixed price, and are entirely mechanical. Also, they will only accept a single type of coin. More sophisticated machines utilize electronic circuitry and are capable of dispensing different articles which are differently priced, and can accept a variety of different coins.
Canadian Patent 997,841, entitled card-actuated gasoline dispenser, discloses a dispenser system which is primarily intended for a gasoline staticn but which can be used for other articles. A user inserts a credit card to actuate the dispenser. The credit card is read by the dispenser and verified against data held in a data bank. Provided the card is valid, the user can then select the article or articles that he wants. No provision is made for returning articles.
All dispensing machines known to us have been intended for articles for sale. However, there are certain classes of articles which consumers sometimes prefer to rent rather than purchase. An example of such a class of articles is video tapes or cassettes. The initial cost of pre~recorded video tapes is relatively high. Since a user will frequently only wish to view ., ,.,. ,,...................... ,, ,. , ~
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~ 3 --a video tape for a few times at the most, it is preferable to rent or hire a video tape for a charge which could be 10% or less of the charge for purchasing the tape. Furthermore, users may frequently wish to rent a tape at unusual times outside usual store hours, and for this reason it is desirable to provide an unmanned machine that can provide a continuous uninterrupted service.
Furthermore, there are some products which are sold in packages, on which a deposit is charged. The deposit is refunded when the package, for example a glass bottle, is returned. In the case of such products sold from an automatic dispensing machine it is desirable that the machine should be capable of accepting returned containers and providing an appropriate refund.
According to the present invention, there is provided an article dispenser comprising:
a storage unit for storing articles;
a card reading unit capable of receiving a card and reading data on that cardi a selection unit actuatable by a user to generate a selection signal representative of a selected article;
a dispensing and receiving unit which is responsive to a selection signal to withdraw an article from the storage unit and to dispense that article, and which is capable of receiving and checking a returned article, returning that article to the storage unit and generating a return signal; and a central processor unit connected to the storage unit, the card reading unit, the selection unit, and the dispensing _ . ... . , ~ . _~ __ _.. _ . . ."_ _ .~ ._ .. _~, _~ j. " _ __ ~ .. .... _.. . ..... .. _ ... __ J
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and receiving unit, whlch central processor unit determines on which account a charge should be recorded from data supplied by the card reading unit, and, for each dispensed article, records a charge on that account, with a replacement charge being recorded i~ the article is not returned as indicated by the absence of a return signal.
~ he storage unit and -the dispensing and receiving unit could respectively comprise of cylindrical carousel having compartments for storing articles, and an arm capable of movement in three dimensions. As such, the storage unit and the dispensing and receiving unit could comprise a Random Access Electromechanical Storage and Retrieval Device (RASRD).
The dispensex could be used for the rental of video tapes.
1~ The present invention also envisages a dispenser for dispensing beverages~ especially alcoholic beverages, in bottles, cans, or containers. In this case, the dispenser can again include a cylindrial carousel as a storage unit and an arm capable of movement in three dimensions, and, provided these features are present, the function of receiving and checking returned articles can be omitted.
~ dispenser for beverages could include the facility for receiving and checking a returned article, for the purposes of collecting returned empty bottles and providing an appropriate credit. In this case, since the value of returned bottles is relatively small, a relatively simple check on the returned bottles need only be made. E'or example the basic dimensions of the bottles ~2~
could be checked by simple sensors. Whilst this would not complete completely prevent the fraudulent lnsertion or return of ake bottles, the lncldence of fraudulent returns ls expected to be small enough to be acceptable.
For a better understanding of the present invention, and to show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, r~ference wlll now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Flgure 1 shows a perspective view of a video tape dispenser according to the present invention;
Figure 2 shows dlagramatically separate components of :
an electronic system of the dispenser of Figure l;
Figure 3 shows diagramatically some of the components of the dispenser shown in Figure l;
Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a storase unit, a dispensing and receiving arm and, in block form, associated L
control elementsi Figure 5 shows a variant embodiment of a storage unit and a dispensing and receiving arm;
Figure 6 shows a perspective view of a variant emb~diment including two storage cylinders and a dispensing and receiving arm; and Figure 7 shows a plan view of a further variant embodiment including four storage cylinders and a dispensing and ~5 receiving arm.
The article dispenser shown in figure 1 is generally denoted by the numeral 1, and is intended to be a free-standing r r~
_ . . _ . . . . _ _ . _ _ _ _ . . _ . , _ , . ,,, _ , . , ... _ g~
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machine which can be placed in stores and other public locations.
The article dispenser has generally rectangular sides, and its front 3 and its back are also rectangular. The front 3 includes an outer panel 4 of a card reading unit 40. On the left hand side of the article dispenser, there is a display panel 5, in which individual display cards are mounted. Each display card advertises al~d provi~es details of a video tape currently provided by the dispenser. These cards can be exchanged individually, so that they can be changed in accordance with changes made to the stock of tapes held in the article dispneser. A dispensing and receiving device 50 (not shown in Figure 1) has an outer dispensing and receiving opening 51. This opening 51 corresponds to a rectangular section through a video tape casing. Mounted in the outer panel 4 is a membrane keyboard 6, which i~ part of a membrane keyboard and human interface 130 (shown in Figure 2).
As shown in Figure 1, the dispensing and receiving opening could alternatively be provided in the middle of the outer panel 4 of the card reading unit 40, as indicated at 52.
With reference to Figure 2, a central computer or processing unit 70 is shown diagramatically at the centre of associated sub-systems or components. The credit card reading unit 40, which can be an otherwise known device, is connected to the computer 70. One or more c~linders or more carousels 20 are provided as a storage unit for the article dispenser 1. Each carousel 20 is connected to the computer 70, and the construction of the carousel 20 is detailed below~ An interface 100 for a servo-driven electronic arm 53 (shown in Figure 4) is connected ~ .. . ... .
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,., to the computer 70, so that the arm 53 can be controlled by the computer 70. A laser bar code reader 110 is connected to the computer 70, and in use it reads bar codes on articles being dispensed and returned. A printer module 120 is connected to the computer 70. The printer module 120 can serve to print out advice slips for users of the dispenser and also reports and instructions for a store in which the dispenser is located. The keyboard 6 is part of a membrane keyboard and human interface unit 130, which is connected to the computer 70. Also connected to the computer 70 are a voice synthesizer 140, a video display unit ~ and a supervised security system module 160/ and the function of these units described in detail below. For controlling energy usage by the dispenser and/or its immediate environment, an energy management system 170 is connected to the computer 70 and to a timing unit 130. Further connected to the computer 70 are a video controlled sub-system 190, a bank of switches 200, ànd a RAM
disc unit 210. For heating and other auxiliary devices, the computer 70 is connected to a heater and AC sub-system 220. For communication to a central computer, which can be connected to a larse number of widely spaced dispensing machines lr the computer 70 can be connected to one or more of telecommunication 230, RF
communication 240 and fibre optic communication 250.
Figure 3 shows a possible arrangement of the computer 70 and some of the subsidiary components shown in Figure 2. The credit card reading unit 40 is connected directly to the computer 70. The voice synthesizer 140, which is shown schematically, comprises circuits for generating an artificial r , - I
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voice or other audio signa~ and a loud speaker. The voice synthesizer 140 is connected directly to the computer 70 ana can provide instructions, advertising material,warnings and music.
The video display unit 150 and the video controlled sub-system 190 are connected via a switching unit 191 to the cornputer 70.
The video controlled sub-system 190 comprises a videq tape or cassette player. An electro-mechanical section 10 of the dispenser, which includes the carousel 20, the arm 53 and the servo-driven electronic arm interface 100, is connected directly to the computer 70. For communication purposes, the computer 70 is connected by a unit 241 to the RF communication 240 or the fibre optics communication 250.
Figure 4 shows details of the receiving and dispensing arm 53 and the carousel 20. The carousel 20 comprises a generally vertical cylinder 21 mounted for rotation about a vertical axis. The cylinder 21 is driven by a motor 22 located below the cylinder 21. The cylinder 21 is provided with compartments 23 for the storage of video tapes. The compartments 23 are arranged in horizontal rings and vertical columns, with three compartments 23 in each vertical column. The cylinder 21 includes one hundred and ~ifty compartments 23. Furthermore, each compartment 23 is provided with means for sensing whether it is occupied or not. This means could comprise a photo-electric -sensor, an infrared sensor or a switch actuated by an article -located in that compartment 23. r The receiving and dispensing arm 53 is a robot ar~ that L`
includes a vertical column 54. This column 54 is mounted for J
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rotation about a vertical axis and is driven by a motor 55.
Mounted on the column 54 for vertical movement up and down the column 54 is a horizontal member 56. Within the hori~ontal member 56 an extension member 57 is slidably located. A motor 58 is mounted on the horizontal member 56 ~or driving the members 56 and 57 up and down the column 54. Similiarly, a motor 59 is mounted on the horizontal member 56 for driving the ext~nsion member 57 relative to the horizontal member 56. At a free end of the extension member 57, there is provided a gripping claw 60 which can grip an article and which is actuated by a solenoid 61 mounted on the horizontal member 56. Thus, the arm 53 i5 capable of movement in three dimensions and the claw 60 can be aligned with any compartment 23 which faces the arm 53.
The arm 53 can then insert or extract an article from an aligned compartment 23, and it can deliver and receive articles from a ..
receiving station, indicated at 69 i.n Figure 5.
The servo-driven electronic arm interface 100 includes a motor driver and controlle.r 101 and digital computation circuits 102, which circuits are connected to the computer 70 and to the motor driver and controller 101. The digital computation circuits 102 are further connected to all the sensing means in the carousel 20, and the motor driver and controller 101 is .-.
connected to all the motors 22, 55, 58, and 59 and the solenoid 61. The digital computation circuits 102 an~ the arm 53 are .
provided with a separate heavy duty power supply.
All the motors 22, 55, 58, and 59 are electric stepping -.
motors. Sensors (not shown) are provided for indicating the ,.
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position of the claw 60 and the rotational position of the carousel 20. These sensors are connected to the motor driver and controller 101, so that the motor driver and controller can bring the claw 60 into alignment with any chosen one of the component 23. The position of any of the moving components, driven by one of the motors 22, 55, 58, and 59, can be determined from a sensor. Alternatively, the position can be determined by calculation, knowing the start or null position of that compartment, from the integral of the steps taken by the respective motor. In this later case, every time the component passes through its zero or null position a sensor can send a corresponding signal, which can be used as a check and which prevents the accumulation of errors over a large time period.
The host computer 70 can issue commands to the digital computation circuits (DCC) 102 as follow~:
~a) Reset;
(b~ Rotate a specified carousel 20 to a particular position;
(c) Move the members 56 and 57 to the level of predetermined ring of compartments 23;
(d) Rotate the arm 53 to bring the claw 60 adjacent a predetermined carousel 20;
(e) Open claw 60;
(f) Close claw 60;
(g) Extend claw 60 and the extension member 57 radially outwards;
(h) Retract claw 60 and extension member 57 radially inwards.
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5'he DCC 102 can give anyone of the following relies to the computer 70:
(a) Reset;
(b) A problem has arisen (eg. a compartment 23 which should contain an article is empty),or sytem OK;
(c) System busy or system idle:
(d) Vertical position of the arm 53;
~e) Angular position of the arm 53;
(f) Radlal position of the claw 60 and the extension member 57, ie. whether extended or retracted;
(g) Claw 60 statùs, whether open or closed, (h) Angular position of a particular carousel 20;
(i) Status of a particular compartment 23, whether loaded or empty.
To extract a particular video tape, the location or address of that video tape is looked up in the database of the computer 70. Utilizing this address, ie. the compartment 23 containing the desired video tape, the computer 70 instructs the t .. . .......................................... ' t digital computation circuits (DCC) 102 and the motor driver and controller (~C) 101 to extract that video tape. The motor drivex and controller 101 actuates the motor 22 to turn the carousel 20 until the required compartment 23 is facing the arm 53. Simultaneously, the arm 53 is actuated to bring the claw 60 adjacent the required compartment 23 when it is facing the arm 53. If necessary the motor 55 is actuated by the MDC 101 to rotate the entire arm 53, until the claw 60 lies in the vertical plane containing the axes of rotation of the . , . ... . ... . .. , .. .. . , . . . .... .... . ... . ~ .
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carousel 20 and the arm 53. If required, the motor 58 is then actuated by the MDC 101 to bring the claw 60 to the same height as the required compartment 23. Once the claw 60 and the required compartment 23 are aligned, the motor 59 is actuated by the M~C 101 to extend the claw 60 and the extension member 57 radially outwards, llntil an edge at least of a required video tape is between jaws of the claw 60. The solenoid Çl is then actuated by the MDC 101 to cause the claw 60 to grip the videotape. Either the claw 60 can simply grip the video tape by friction, or it can include projections or lugs, which engage corresponding openings or recesses in the video tape. The motor 59 is then operated in the reverse direction, so that the video tape held in claw 60 is extracted from its compartment. The motors 55 and 58 are then actuated, respectively,to rotate, and to move vertically, the claw 60 until the vldeo tape is brought adjacent the opening 51. The motor 59 is then operated to cause the extension member and claw 60 to extend radially, whereby the video tape is dispensed through the opening 51. If the opening 51 is designed to support the video tape, the claw 60 can be fully opened, so that the video tape is free to be removed by a user. Alternatively, if the video tape is held in the claw 60 solely by friction, the solenold 61 can be supplied with a reduced current, whereby the video tape is only lightly retained by the claw 60. The user can then remove the video tape from the claw 60.
After each action, the arm 53 can either be returned to a preset rest position, or it can be left at its final position at the end of that action.
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To return a video tape from the opening 51 to a location in a carousel is essentially the reverse of the above se~uence for extracting a tape. An empty compartment 23 is ~.
searched for in the database, the empty status of a compartment is checked with the status indicated by the sensor for that compartment 23. Provided the chosen compartment 23 is empty, this compartment 23 is recorded in the database as the address for the returned tape~ and the MDC 101 then actuates the motors to place the returned video tape in the selected compartment 23.
Figure 5 shows a variation of the receiving and dispensing arm 53 and the carousel 20~ The carousel 20 can be provided with an outer cover 24 which encloses all the compartments 23 to prevent video tapes accidentally falling out, r except for one column of compartments 23 which directly face the dispensing and receiving arm 53. A portion of this cover 24 is cut away in Figure 5, to show the location of a video tape 25 in a compartment 23 in the carousel 20.
As shown in Figures 4 and 5, a basic article dispenser 1 can be provided with .just one carousel 20. However it is ..
envisaged that two or more carousels 20 could be provided, depending upon the type of article and demand at a particular location As indicated in Figure 6, two carousels 20 can be provided on either side of the arm 53. Although IlOt shown in ~~
Figure 6, each carousel can be mounted for vertical rotation and -can be driven in the same manner as the single carousel 20 shown `
in Figure 4. Since the arm 53 is rotatable about its vertical axis, it can readily rotate to select an article from either of . .
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the two carousels 2n. It is possibl~ that an article dispenser 1 can be initially constructed with just one carousel 20, with the ' dispensing and receiving arm 53 located adjacent one side of the .
dispenser. Then, if sales or rentals at that location justify .
expanding the capacity of the dispenser 1, the side of the dispenser can be removed and an additional unit incorporating a second carousel 20 can be added. The servo-driven electronic arm interface 100 would then simply have to be re-program~ledj to control the arm 53 so that it selects an article out of the appropriate carousel 20. .
As shown in Figure 7, it is possible to provide four carousels 20, and the number of carousels 20 is only limited by the number that can be arranged around a single arm S3~ For a ~:
very large installation it is conceivable that two or more separate receiving and dispensing ar:ms 53 could be provided with respective sets of carousels 20. Th,e arms 53 could receive and dispense articles either from a common opening or separate .
openings.
A description will now be given of various operating modes of the dispenser 1.
Initially, it will be necessary to load the dispenser with video tapes. For both loading and unloading of the dispenser, a special security code has to be entered on the keyboard 6. It .--is to be appreciated that a security code is particularly important for unloading the dispenser 1, since this condition enables the operator to unload completely the dispenser 1, in order to enable a fresh charge of video tapes to be loaded into the dispenser 1.
For unloading, the appropriate security code is entered and either an instruction to unload all video tapes or an instruction to unload only part of the stock of video tapes. If all the video tapes are to be unloaded, the dispenser 1 will unload them all without further instruction. To unload all the video tapes, the caxousels 20 and the arm 53 are actuated so that the claw 60 sequentially extracts the video tapes from the occupied compartmPnts 23 of the or each carousel 20. The arm 53 dispenses or unloads each video tape in turn through the openings 51. Once they have all been unloaded a visual indication via the video display unit 150 or an audible indication via the voice synthesizer 140 will be given. For partial unloading, after the appropriate security code and instruction have been entered, the dispenser 1 will, either audibly or visually, prompt for the numb~r of a ~ideo tape. A number i5 entered on the keybGard 6 and the computer 70 then determines the location of the reguired video tape from its own memory. The arm 53 and an appropriate carousel 20 will then be actuated to bring the claw 60 adjacent the compartment 23 containing that video tape. The claw 60 extracts it and its bar code is read by the bar code reader 110, as a check. If the video tape is correct, it is dispensed or unloaded through the opening 51. This procedure is repeated until the operator enters a code indicating that the unloading procedure is terminated. Fresh video tapes can then be loaded. If at any time,an incorrect video tape is found in any compartment, then the ., ' ~
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computer 70 will resort the video tapes and this is described below.
To load the dispenser 1, after the special security code and an instruction that video tapes are to be loaded have been entered/ the dispenser 1 will give an instruction or prompt for a video tape or cartridge to be inserted. This prompt can be given visually on the visual display unit 150 and/or audibly by means of the voice synthesizer unit 140. A video tape is then inserted into the opening 51, and is accepted by the arm 53. The dispenser 1 then checks the dimensions of the video tape, and reads the bar code on that tape with the laser Bar Code Reader 110. If the bar code is invalid or unreadable, the tape is rejected and returned out through the opening 51. An appropriate invalid indication is given on the video display unit 150, and the dispenser 1 then gives the prompt for the insertion of another video tape. If the bar code is readable and the video tape is considered by the dispenser to be Yalid, the next free compartment 23 is looked for in the memory. The new video tape is then assigned to this vacant compartment 23, and this information is recorded in the database of the computer 70. The appropriate carousel 20 and the axm 53 are then actuated by the motor driver and controller 101, so that the new video tape is inserted in the vacant compartment 23. The arm 53 is then moved, so that the claw 60 is brought adjacent to the opening 51, and a fresh prompt for another video tape is given. This procedure is repeated until -the carousel or carousels 20 are full.
It should be noted that it is desirable to always have ~2~7~
at least one vacant compartment 23 in the dispenser 1. This enables the dispenser to carry out a complete resorting or re-ordering of the stock of video tapes, if an error arises. For example, if a required tape is expected from a particular compartment 23, upon reading the bar code on that tape the computer 70 might discover that the tape is not the required tape, as recorded in the memory for that compartment 23. Then, the carousels 20 and the arm 53 are actuated to insert the extracted tape in the vacant compartment 23. The computer 70 then memorizes the location of that tape. It can then carry out a systematic search through the other tapes, by sequentially extracting the tapes and reading their bar codes until it encounters the tape re~uired. Every time a video tape is removed from its existing compartment 23 it is transferred to a vacant compartment 23, and a record of the fresh location of that video tape is made.
Alternatively, the dispenser 1 can be programmed to carry out a complete re-ordering of all the video tapes in the dispenser.
Once this has been effected, it can go back to the compartment 23 which is now recorded as housing the required tape.
With the dispenser 1 switched on and loaded, the operator instructs the dispenser 1 through the keyboard 6 to adopt a "system idle" state and the dispenser 1 can then be left unattended. In this state, the video controlled sub-system 190 and the video display unit 150 can be used to show automatically trailers or other advertising material at preset intervals. The voice synthesizer unit 140 can be used to provide the sound track or other appropriate audio signals. Alternatively it can provide .}. ", . .
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audio advertising material alone or background music. The video controlled sub-system 190, in this case a video recorder, is provided with a video tape of current advertising material. This can be changed at suitable intervals, either by the operator or automatically.
Simultaneously, the securi-ty system module 160 and the energy management system 170 are active. Both the security system module 160 and the energy management sys~em 170 can provide functions not only for the dispenser 1 itself, but also for the buidling in which the dispenser is located. For example, when the dispenser 1 is located in a small store, the security system module can be linked to security and alarm devices in the store and associated with the store doors and windows etc. Also, the security system module includes dev.ices for detecting any unauthorized opening of the dispenser. These devices could be, for example:
a balance or hock devica within the dispenser l;
a light sensor within the dispenser to detect opening of the dispenser l;
and heat and smoke detectors inside the dlspenser l.
In the event that any of the sensors within and without the dispenser 1 are triggered, the computer 70 can be programmed to take a variety of actions. It can send a message to a central computer, and/or to a local police station indicating that an alarm has been triggered, or it could use one or both of these voice synthesizer unit 140 and the video display unit 150 to warn -~
or scare off a burglar. For example, the voice synthesi~er unit . . .
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cvuld act as a warning siren or continuously repeat the word "burglarl'.
Similiarly, the energy management system 170 can govern the environment in which the dispenser is located. For this purpose it would need to be connected to appropriate sensors, which in some instances could be provided within the dispenser and to appropriate control elements of the stores heating and ve~tilating system. The start time optimizer 180 connected to the energy management system 170, can be set so that the temperature and other conditions are varied within the store, depending upon whether the store is open for use or is closed.
For example, a store could be open from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
At 10 p.m. when the store is closed~ the temperature could be allowed to fall to 50~F in wintertime, or to rise to 80F in summertime. Before opening at 9:00 a.m. the store temperature is either increased or decreased to bring back within a preset working temperature range. The energy management s~stem 170 can also control power devices at peak periods to reduce total power costs. Also, in dispensers which might be subject to inclement weather conditions, a heater can be provided, the heater being controlled by the energy management system 170.
In the system idle state, the membrane keyboard and human interface 130 is continuously monitored, to check whether any action is required of the dispe~ser 1.
Once a key is pressed or the membrane keyboard and human interface 130 otherwise receives an input from a user, operating instructions are displayed on the video display unit r .
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150 and a prompt is given for insertion of a credit card. Upon insertion of a credit card, the card is scanned by the credit card reading unit 40. If the scan is unsuccessful, then a fresh prompt for a credit card is given. Assuming the scan is successful the data read from the card is sent to the computer 70, which then verifies the validity of the credit card. A central computer to which the computer 70 is linked is provided with data on invalid credit cards, and the computer 70 checks the card data against this data store. Details of invalid credit cards are commonly provided by credit card companies, so that a data store of invalid cards can be assembled in the central computer and can be kept up to date.
Alternatively, it is possible that the credit card ~heck could be made against data stored in a credit card company's own computer.
This would eliminate the necessity of obtaining data from the credit card company and reading it into the central computer of the present system.
Cnce the card data has been read and the validity of the card verified, the video display unit 150 displays an instruction requesting the number of a desired title and asking for that number to be entered on the keyboard 6. Once the customer has entered this number on the keyboard 6, the number of the video tape and its title is displayed cn the video display unit 150, with a prompt asking if the selection is correct.
Again, the customer indicates whether the selection is correct or incorrect by pressing appropriate keys on the keyboard 6. If the selection is incorrect, then a fresh re~uest for the number of a desiIed video tape is displayed. If the selection is correct, 3L2~
the desired video tape number is looked for in the data base of the computer 70. This gives the location or address of the compartment 23 cuxrently associated with that video tape, and the status of the compartment 23, ie. whether empty or occupied.
Compartment status can also be verified from the sensor for the respective compartment. If this compartment 23 is empty, then a message such as "out of stock" is displayed on the the video display unit 150, and a fresh prompt is given for the number of a desired video tape. When a video tape is in stock, the dispensing and receiving arm 53 and the appropriate carousel 20 are actuated by the motor drive and controller 101 to extract the appropriate video tape or cartridge from its compartment 23.
The bar code on the extracted video tape or cartridge is then read by the laser bar code reader 110, to verify that it is the correct video tape. If the tape is correct, then the arm 53 is actuated to dispense the tape through the opening 51. If the tape is incorrect, then as previously mentioned the dispenser 1 will have -to re-organize its stock of video tapes and check on their locations. In this case, an appropriate message can be displayed on the video display unit 150, to indicate that the stock is being checked for the required video tape.
Once a required tape has been dispensed, the dispenser 1 will again provide a fresh prompt on the video display unit 150 for the number of a desired tape. This procedure can be re~eated, until the user has obtained the desired number of video tapes.
Before dis~ensinq a tape the memorv of the centr~l-comput~r O
70 will be checked, to ascertain wh~.ther the us~r ~?ill e~ceed -74~;~
his credit limit if a further video tape is dispensed. In this respect, the credit limit is determined by the deposit charge for each tape, rather than for the rental charge, together with rental charges for previously used and returned tapes. For example, the rental fee for each tape could be $6.00, and the deposit for each tape could be $80.00. If the user takes three video tapes, then until these tapes are returned, his account is considered to be debited with ~2~0.00 . If this user has previously incurred five rental charges of $6.00, then his total effective debit would be $270.00. If he wished to withdraw a further video tape, a further debit of ~80.00 would have to be made, bringing the customer's total debit to $350.00. The computer 70 would check whether a total debit of $350.00 would exceed the customer's prescribed credit limit. If the limit would be exceeded then no further tapes are dispensed and an c3ppropriate message is displayed.
Each time a video tape is returned, then the deposit charge less the rental charge, i.e $74.00 in this example, is credited to the customer's account~ ¦
It is to be appreciated that, since the deposit charge for each tape could he more than ten times the rental charge, it would be unwise to allow any user to have a large number of tapes, even though the rental charge may be quite modest. For example, each user could be limited to three video tapes. Since
This invention relates to an article dispenser. This invention more particularly relates to a dispenser capable of dispensing articles and receiving returned articles. This invention is also more particularly conc~rned with a dispenser, which is actuated by a credit card and which can charge for the sale or rental of an article to an appropriate credit account.
A wide variety of dispensing or vending machines are known. Simple machines dispense a single type of axticle at a fixed price, and are entirely mechanical. Also, they will only accept a single type of coin. More sophisticated machines utilize electronic circuitry and are capable of dispensing different articles which are differently priced, and can accept a variety of different coins.
Canadian Patent 997,841, entitled card-actuated gasoline dispenser, discloses a dispenser system which is primarily intended for a gasoline staticn but which can be used for other articles. A user inserts a credit card to actuate the dispenser. The credit card is read by the dispenser and verified against data held in a data bank. Provided the card is valid, the user can then select the article or articles that he wants. No provision is made for returning articles.
All dispensing machines known to us have been intended for articles for sale. However, there are certain classes of articles which consumers sometimes prefer to rent rather than purchase. An example of such a class of articles is video tapes or cassettes. The initial cost of pre~recorded video tapes is relatively high. Since a user will frequently only wish to view ., ,.,. ,,...................... ,, ,. , ~
7~
~ 3 --a video tape for a few times at the most, it is preferable to rent or hire a video tape for a charge which could be 10% or less of the charge for purchasing the tape. Furthermore, users may frequently wish to rent a tape at unusual times outside usual store hours, and for this reason it is desirable to provide an unmanned machine that can provide a continuous uninterrupted service.
Furthermore, there are some products which are sold in packages, on which a deposit is charged. The deposit is refunded when the package, for example a glass bottle, is returned. In the case of such products sold from an automatic dispensing machine it is desirable that the machine should be capable of accepting returned containers and providing an appropriate refund.
According to the present invention, there is provided an article dispenser comprising:
a storage unit for storing articles;
a card reading unit capable of receiving a card and reading data on that cardi a selection unit actuatable by a user to generate a selection signal representative of a selected article;
a dispensing and receiving unit which is responsive to a selection signal to withdraw an article from the storage unit and to dispense that article, and which is capable of receiving and checking a returned article, returning that article to the storage unit and generating a return signal; and a central processor unit connected to the storage unit, the card reading unit, the selection unit, and the dispensing _ . ... . , ~ . _~ __ _.. _ . . ."_ _ .~ ._ .. _~, _~ j. " _ __ ~ .. .... _.. . ..... .. _ ... __ J
- . ~2~
and receiving unit, whlch central processor unit determines on which account a charge should be recorded from data supplied by the card reading unit, and, for each dispensed article, records a charge on that account, with a replacement charge being recorded i~ the article is not returned as indicated by the absence of a return signal.
~ he storage unit and -the dispensing and receiving unit could respectively comprise of cylindrical carousel having compartments for storing articles, and an arm capable of movement in three dimensions. As such, the storage unit and the dispensing and receiving unit could comprise a Random Access Electromechanical Storage and Retrieval Device (RASRD).
The dispensex could be used for the rental of video tapes.
1~ The present invention also envisages a dispenser for dispensing beverages~ especially alcoholic beverages, in bottles, cans, or containers. In this case, the dispenser can again include a cylindrial carousel as a storage unit and an arm capable of movement in three dimensions, and, provided these features are present, the function of receiving and checking returned articles can be omitted.
~ dispenser for beverages could include the facility for receiving and checking a returned article, for the purposes of collecting returned empty bottles and providing an appropriate credit. In this case, since the value of returned bottles is relatively small, a relatively simple check on the returned bottles need only be made. E'or example the basic dimensions of the bottles ~2~
could be checked by simple sensors. Whilst this would not complete completely prevent the fraudulent lnsertion or return of ake bottles, the lncldence of fraudulent returns ls expected to be small enough to be acceptable.
For a better understanding of the present invention, and to show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, r~ference wlll now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Flgure 1 shows a perspective view of a video tape dispenser according to the present invention;
Figure 2 shows dlagramatically separate components of :
an electronic system of the dispenser of Figure l;
Figure 3 shows diagramatically some of the components of the dispenser shown in Figure l;
Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a storase unit, a dispensing and receiving arm and, in block form, associated L
control elementsi Figure 5 shows a variant embodiment of a storage unit and a dispensing and receiving arm;
Figure 6 shows a perspective view of a variant emb~diment including two storage cylinders and a dispensing and receiving arm; and Figure 7 shows a plan view of a further variant embodiment including four storage cylinders and a dispensing and ~5 receiving arm.
The article dispenser shown in figure 1 is generally denoted by the numeral 1, and is intended to be a free-standing r r~
_ . . _ . . . . _ _ . _ _ _ _ . . _ . , _ , . ,,, _ , . , ... _ g~
.~
machine which can be placed in stores and other public locations.
The article dispenser has generally rectangular sides, and its front 3 and its back are also rectangular. The front 3 includes an outer panel 4 of a card reading unit 40. On the left hand side of the article dispenser, there is a display panel 5, in which individual display cards are mounted. Each display card advertises al~d provi~es details of a video tape currently provided by the dispenser. These cards can be exchanged individually, so that they can be changed in accordance with changes made to the stock of tapes held in the article dispneser. A dispensing and receiving device 50 (not shown in Figure 1) has an outer dispensing and receiving opening 51. This opening 51 corresponds to a rectangular section through a video tape casing. Mounted in the outer panel 4 is a membrane keyboard 6, which i~ part of a membrane keyboard and human interface 130 (shown in Figure 2).
As shown in Figure 1, the dispensing and receiving opening could alternatively be provided in the middle of the outer panel 4 of the card reading unit 40, as indicated at 52.
With reference to Figure 2, a central computer or processing unit 70 is shown diagramatically at the centre of associated sub-systems or components. The credit card reading unit 40, which can be an otherwise known device, is connected to the computer 70. One or more c~linders or more carousels 20 are provided as a storage unit for the article dispenser 1. Each carousel 20 is connected to the computer 70, and the construction of the carousel 20 is detailed below~ An interface 100 for a servo-driven electronic arm 53 (shown in Figure 4) is connected ~ .. . ... .
~07a~
,., to the computer 70, so that the arm 53 can be controlled by the computer 70. A laser bar code reader 110 is connected to the computer 70, and in use it reads bar codes on articles being dispensed and returned. A printer module 120 is connected to the computer 70. The printer module 120 can serve to print out advice slips for users of the dispenser and also reports and instructions for a store in which the dispenser is located. The keyboard 6 is part of a membrane keyboard and human interface unit 130, which is connected to the computer 70. Also connected to the computer 70 are a voice synthesizer 140, a video display unit ~ and a supervised security system module 160/ and the function of these units described in detail below. For controlling energy usage by the dispenser and/or its immediate environment, an energy management system 170 is connected to the computer 70 and to a timing unit 130. Further connected to the computer 70 are a video controlled sub-system 190, a bank of switches 200, ànd a RAM
disc unit 210. For heating and other auxiliary devices, the computer 70 is connected to a heater and AC sub-system 220. For communication to a central computer, which can be connected to a larse number of widely spaced dispensing machines lr the computer 70 can be connected to one or more of telecommunication 230, RF
communication 240 and fibre optic communication 250.
Figure 3 shows a possible arrangement of the computer 70 and some of the subsidiary components shown in Figure 2. The credit card reading unit 40 is connected directly to the computer 70. The voice synthesizer 140, which is shown schematically, comprises circuits for generating an artificial r , - I
~ ~ ~t7~ ~
voice or other audio signa~ and a loud speaker. The voice synthesizer 140 is connected directly to the computer 70 ana can provide instructions, advertising material,warnings and music.
The video display unit 150 and the video controlled sub-system 190 are connected via a switching unit 191 to the cornputer 70.
The video controlled sub-system 190 comprises a videq tape or cassette player. An electro-mechanical section 10 of the dispenser, which includes the carousel 20, the arm 53 and the servo-driven electronic arm interface 100, is connected directly to the computer 70. For communication purposes, the computer 70 is connected by a unit 241 to the RF communication 240 or the fibre optics communication 250.
Figure 4 shows details of the receiving and dispensing arm 53 and the carousel 20. The carousel 20 comprises a generally vertical cylinder 21 mounted for rotation about a vertical axis. The cylinder 21 is driven by a motor 22 located below the cylinder 21. The cylinder 21 is provided with compartments 23 for the storage of video tapes. The compartments 23 are arranged in horizontal rings and vertical columns, with three compartments 23 in each vertical column. The cylinder 21 includes one hundred and ~ifty compartments 23. Furthermore, each compartment 23 is provided with means for sensing whether it is occupied or not. This means could comprise a photo-electric -sensor, an infrared sensor or a switch actuated by an article -located in that compartment 23. r The receiving and dispensing arm 53 is a robot ar~ that L`
includes a vertical column 54. This column 54 is mounted for J
" ~ i\'74~
rotation about a vertical axis and is driven by a motor 55.
Mounted on the column 54 for vertical movement up and down the column 54 is a horizontal member 56. Within the hori~ontal member 56 an extension member 57 is slidably located. A motor 58 is mounted on the horizontal member 56 ~or driving the members 56 and 57 up and down the column 54. Similiarly, a motor 59 is mounted on the horizontal member 56 for driving the ext~nsion member 57 relative to the horizontal member 56. At a free end of the extension member 57, there is provided a gripping claw 60 which can grip an article and which is actuated by a solenoid 61 mounted on the horizontal member 56. Thus, the arm 53 i5 capable of movement in three dimensions and the claw 60 can be aligned with any compartment 23 which faces the arm 53.
The arm 53 can then insert or extract an article from an aligned compartment 23, and it can deliver and receive articles from a ..
receiving station, indicated at 69 i.n Figure 5.
The servo-driven electronic arm interface 100 includes a motor driver and controlle.r 101 and digital computation circuits 102, which circuits are connected to the computer 70 and to the motor driver and controller 101. The digital computation circuits 102 are further connected to all the sensing means in the carousel 20, and the motor driver and controller 101 is .-.
connected to all the motors 22, 55, 58, and 59 and the solenoid 61. The digital computation circuits 102 an~ the arm 53 are .
provided with a separate heavy duty power supply.
All the motors 22, 55, 58, and 59 are electric stepping -.
motors. Sensors (not shown) are provided for indicating the ,.
~2~97~
position of the claw 60 and the rotational position of the carousel 20. These sensors are connected to the motor driver and controller 101, so that the motor driver and controller can bring the claw 60 into alignment with any chosen one of the component 23. The position of any of the moving components, driven by one of the motors 22, 55, 58, and 59, can be determined from a sensor. Alternatively, the position can be determined by calculation, knowing the start or null position of that compartment, from the integral of the steps taken by the respective motor. In this later case, every time the component passes through its zero or null position a sensor can send a corresponding signal, which can be used as a check and which prevents the accumulation of errors over a large time period.
The host computer 70 can issue commands to the digital computation circuits (DCC) 102 as follow~:
~a) Reset;
(b~ Rotate a specified carousel 20 to a particular position;
(c) Move the members 56 and 57 to the level of predetermined ring of compartments 23;
(d) Rotate the arm 53 to bring the claw 60 adjacent a predetermined carousel 20;
(e) Open claw 60;
(f) Close claw 60;
(g) Extend claw 60 and the extension member 57 radially outwards;
(h) Retract claw 60 and extension member 57 radially inwards.
~2~17~
5'he DCC 102 can give anyone of the following relies to the computer 70:
(a) Reset;
(b) A problem has arisen (eg. a compartment 23 which should contain an article is empty),or sytem OK;
(c) System busy or system idle:
(d) Vertical position of the arm 53;
~e) Angular position of the arm 53;
(f) Radlal position of the claw 60 and the extension member 57, ie. whether extended or retracted;
(g) Claw 60 statùs, whether open or closed, (h) Angular position of a particular carousel 20;
(i) Status of a particular compartment 23, whether loaded or empty.
To extract a particular video tape, the location or address of that video tape is looked up in the database of the computer 70. Utilizing this address, ie. the compartment 23 containing the desired video tape, the computer 70 instructs the t .. . .......................................... ' t digital computation circuits (DCC) 102 and the motor driver and controller (~C) 101 to extract that video tape. The motor drivex and controller 101 actuates the motor 22 to turn the carousel 20 until the required compartment 23 is facing the arm 53. Simultaneously, the arm 53 is actuated to bring the claw 60 adjacent the required compartment 23 when it is facing the arm 53. If necessary the motor 55 is actuated by the MDC 101 to rotate the entire arm 53, until the claw 60 lies in the vertical plane containing the axes of rotation of the . , . ... . ... . .. , .. .. . , . . . .... .... . ... . ~ .
374Li~
carousel 20 and the arm 53. If required, the motor 58 is then actuated by the MDC 101 to bring the claw 60 to the same height as the required compartment 23. Once the claw 60 and the required compartment 23 are aligned, the motor 59 is actuated by the M~C 101 to extend the claw 60 and the extension member 57 radially outwards, llntil an edge at least of a required video tape is between jaws of the claw 60. The solenoid Çl is then actuated by the MDC 101 to cause the claw 60 to grip the videotape. Either the claw 60 can simply grip the video tape by friction, or it can include projections or lugs, which engage corresponding openings or recesses in the video tape. The motor 59 is then operated in the reverse direction, so that the video tape held in claw 60 is extracted from its compartment. The motors 55 and 58 are then actuated, respectively,to rotate, and to move vertically, the claw 60 until the vldeo tape is brought adjacent the opening 51. The motor 59 is then operated to cause the extension member and claw 60 to extend radially, whereby the video tape is dispensed through the opening 51. If the opening 51 is designed to support the video tape, the claw 60 can be fully opened, so that the video tape is free to be removed by a user. Alternatively, if the video tape is held in the claw 60 solely by friction, the solenold 61 can be supplied with a reduced current, whereby the video tape is only lightly retained by the claw 60. The user can then remove the video tape from the claw 60.
After each action, the arm 53 can either be returned to a preset rest position, or it can be left at its final position at the end of that action.
.
- - ~207~
To return a video tape from the opening 51 to a location in a carousel is essentially the reverse of the above se~uence for extracting a tape. An empty compartment 23 is ~.
searched for in the database, the empty status of a compartment is checked with the status indicated by the sensor for that compartment 23. Provided the chosen compartment 23 is empty, this compartment 23 is recorded in the database as the address for the returned tape~ and the MDC 101 then actuates the motors to place the returned video tape in the selected compartment 23.
Figure 5 shows a variation of the receiving and dispensing arm 53 and the carousel 20~ The carousel 20 can be provided with an outer cover 24 which encloses all the compartments 23 to prevent video tapes accidentally falling out, r except for one column of compartments 23 which directly face the dispensing and receiving arm 53. A portion of this cover 24 is cut away in Figure 5, to show the location of a video tape 25 in a compartment 23 in the carousel 20.
As shown in Figures 4 and 5, a basic article dispenser 1 can be provided with .just one carousel 20. However it is ..
envisaged that two or more carousels 20 could be provided, depending upon the type of article and demand at a particular location As indicated in Figure 6, two carousels 20 can be provided on either side of the arm 53. Although IlOt shown in ~~
Figure 6, each carousel can be mounted for vertical rotation and -can be driven in the same manner as the single carousel 20 shown `
in Figure 4. Since the arm 53 is rotatable about its vertical axis, it can readily rotate to select an article from either of . .
~ ~74~
the two carousels 2n. It is possibl~ that an article dispenser 1 can be initially constructed with just one carousel 20, with the ' dispensing and receiving arm 53 located adjacent one side of the .
dispenser. Then, if sales or rentals at that location justify .
expanding the capacity of the dispenser 1, the side of the dispenser can be removed and an additional unit incorporating a second carousel 20 can be added. The servo-driven electronic arm interface 100 would then simply have to be re-program~ledj to control the arm 53 so that it selects an article out of the appropriate carousel 20. .
As shown in Figure 7, it is possible to provide four carousels 20, and the number of carousels 20 is only limited by the number that can be arranged around a single arm S3~ For a ~:
very large installation it is conceivable that two or more separate receiving and dispensing ar:ms 53 could be provided with respective sets of carousels 20. Th,e arms 53 could receive and dispense articles either from a common opening or separate .
openings.
A description will now be given of various operating modes of the dispenser 1.
Initially, it will be necessary to load the dispenser with video tapes. For both loading and unloading of the dispenser, a special security code has to be entered on the keyboard 6. It .--is to be appreciated that a security code is particularly important for unloading the dispenser 1, since this condition enables the operator to unload completely the dispenser 1, in order to enable a fresh charge of video tapes to be loaded into the dispenser 1.
For unloading, the appropriate security code is entered and either an instruction to unload all video tapes or an instruction to unload only part of the stock of video tapes. If all the video tapes are to be unloaded, the dispenser 1 will unload them all without further instruction. To unload all the video tapes, the caxousels 20 and the arm 53 are actuated so that the claw 60 sequentially extracts the video tapes from the occupied compartmPnts 23 of the or each carousel 20. The arm 53 dispenses or unloads each video tape in turn through the openings 51. Once they have all been unloaded a visual indication via the video display unit 150 or an audible indication via the voice synthesizer 140 will be given. For partial unloading, after the appropriate security code and instruction have been entered, the dispenser 1 will, either audibly or visually, prompt for the numb~r of a ~ideo tape. A number i5 entered on the keybGard 6 and the computer 70 then determines the location of the reguired video tape from its own memory. The arm 53 and an appropriate carousel 20 will then be actuated to bring the claw 60 adjacent the compartment 23 containing that video tape. The claw 60 extracts it and its bar code is read by the bar code reader 110, as a check. If the video tape is correct, it is dispensed or unloaded through the opening 51. This procedure is repeated until the operator enters a code indicating that the unloading procedure is terminated. Fresh video tapes can then be loaded. If at any time,an incorrect video tape is found in any compartment, then the ., ' ~
~LZ~17~
computer 70 will resort the video tapes and this is described below.
To load the dispenser 1, after the special security code and an instruction that video tapes are to be loaded have been entered/ the dispenser 1 will give an instruction or prompt for a video tape or cartridge to be inserted. This prompt can be given visually on the visual display unit 150 and/or audibly by means of the voice synthesizer unit 140. A video tape is then inserted into the opening 51, and is accepted by the arm 53. The dispenser 1 then checks the dimensions of the video tape, and reads the bar code on that tape with the laser Bar Code Reader 110. If the bar code is invalid or unreadable, the tape is rejected and returned out through the opening 51. An appropriate invalid indication is given on the video display unit 150, and the dispenser 1 then gives the prompt for the insertion of another video tape. If the bar code is readable and the video tape is considered by the dispenser to be Yalid, the next free compartment 23 is looked for in the memory. The new video tape is then assigned to this vacant compartment 23, and this information is recorded in the database of the computer 70. The appropriate carousel 20 and the axm 53 are then actuated by the motor driver and controller 101, so that the new video tape is inserted in the vacant compartment 23. The arm 53 is then moved, so that the claw 60 is brought adjacent to the opening 51, and a fresh prompt for another video tape is given. This procedure is repeated until -the carousel or carousels 20 are full.
It should be noted that it is desirable to always have ~2~7~
at least one vacant compartment 23 in the dispenser 1. This enables the dispenser to carry out a complete resorting or re-ordering of the stock of video tapes, if an error arises. For example, if a required tape is expected from a particular compartment 23, upon reading the bar code on that tape the computer 70 might discover that the tape is not the required tape, as recorded in the memory for that compartment 23. Then, the carousels 20 and the arm 53 are actuated to insert the extracted tape in the vacant compartment 23. The computer 70 then memorizes the location of that tape. It can then carry out a systematic search through the other tapes, by sequentially extracting the tapes and reading their bar codes until it encounters the tape re~uired. Every time a video tape is removed from its existing compartment 23 it is transferred to a vacant compartment 23, and a record of the fresh location of that video tape is made.
Alternatively, the dispenser 1 can be programmed to carry out a complete re-ordering of all the video tapes in the dispenser.
Once this has been effected, it can go back to the compartment 23 which is now recorded as housing the required tape.
With the dispenser 1 switched on and loaded, the operator instructs the dispenser 1 through the keyboard 6 to adopt a "system idle" state and the dispenser 1 can then be left unattended. In this state, the video controlled sub-system 190 and the video display unit 150 can be used to show automatically trailers or other advertising material at preset intervals. The voice synthesizer unit 140 can be used to provide the sound track or other appropriate audio signals. Alternatively it can provide .}. ", . .
- ~2C~7fl~
audio advertising material alone or background music. The video controlled sub-system 190, in this case a video recorder, is provided with a video tape of current advertising material. This can be changed at suitable intervals, either by the operator or automatically.
Simultaneously, the securi-ty system module 160 and the energy management system 170 are active. Both the security system module 160 and the energy management sys~em 170 can provide functions not only for the dispenser 1 itself, but also for the buidling in which the dispenser is located. For example, when the dispenser 1 is located in a small store, the security system module can be linked to security and alarm devices in the store and associated with the store doors and windows etc. Also, the security system module includes dev.ices for detecting any unauthorized opening of the dispenser. These devices could be, for example:
a balance or hock devica within the dispenser l;
a light sensor within the dispenser to detect opening of the dispenser l;
and heat and smoke detectors inside the dlspenser l.
In the event that any of the sensors within and without the dispenser 1 are triggered, the computer 70 can be programmed to take a variety of actions. It can send a message to a central computer, and/or to a local police station indicating that an alarm has been triggered, or it could use one or both of these voice synthesizer unit 140 and the video display unit 150 to warn -~
or scare off a burglar. For example, the voice synthesi~er unit . . .
7~
.
cvuld act as a warning siren or continuously repeat the word "burglarl'.
Similiarly, the energy management system 170 can govern the environment in which the dispenser is located. For this purpose it would need to be connected to appropriate sensors, which in some instances could be provided within the dispenser and to appropriate control elements of the stores heating and ve~tilating system. The start time optimizer 180 connected to the energy management system 170, can be set so that the temperature and other conditions are varied within the store, depending upon whether the store is open for use or is closed.
For example, a store could be open from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
At 10 p.m. when the store is closed~ the temperature could be allowed to fall to 50~F in wintertime, or to rise to 80F in summertime. Before opening at 9:00 a.m. the store temperature is either increased or decreased to bring back within a preset working temperature range. The energy management s~stem 170 can also control power devices at peak periods to reduce total power costs. Also, in dispensers which might be subject to inclement weather conditions, a heater can be provided, the heater being controlled by the energy management system 170.
In the system idle state, the membrane keyboard and human interface 130 is continuously monitored, to check whether any action is required of the dispe~ser 1.
Once a key is pressed or the membrane keyboard and human interface 130 otherwise receives an input from a user, operating instructions are displayed on the video display unit r .
, . .. , .. _ . ~ .. .
~2~7~
150 and a prompt is given for insertion of a credit card. Upon insertion of a credit card, the card is scanned by the credit card reading unit 40. If the scan is unsuccessful, then a fresh prompt for a credit card is given. Assuming the scan is successful the data read from the card is sent to the computer 70, which then verifies the validity of the credit card. A central computer to which the computer 70 is linked is provided with data on invalid credit cards, and the computer 70 checks the card data against this data store. Details of invalid credit cards are commonly provided by credit card companies, so that a data store of invalid cards can be assembled in the central computer and can be kept up to date.
Alternatively, it is possible that the credit card ~heck could be made against data stored in a credit card company's own computer.
This would eliminate the necessity of obtaining data from the credit card company and reading it into the central computer of the present system.
Cnce the card data has been read and the validity of the card verified, the video display unit 150 displays an instruction requesting the number of a desired title and asking for that number to be entered on the keyboard 6. Once the customer has entered this number on the keyboard 6, the number of the video tape and its title is displayed cn the video display unit 150, with a prompt asking if the selection is correct.
Again, the customer indicates whether the selection is correct or incorrect by pressing appropriate keys on the keyboard 6. If the selection is incorrect, then a fresh re~uest for the number of a desiIed video tape is displayed. If the selection is correct, 3L2~
the desired video tape number is looked for in the data base of the computer 70. This gives the location or address of the compartment 23 cuxrently associated with that video tape, and the status of the compartment 23, ie. whether empty or occupied.
Compartment status can also be verified from the sensor for the respective compartment. If this compartment 23 is empty, then a message such as "out of stock" is displayed on the the video display unit 150, and a fresh prompt is given for the number of a desired video tape. When a video tape is in stock, the dispensing and receiving arm 53 and the appropriate carousel 20 are actuated by the motor drive and controller 101 to extract the appropriate video tape or cartridge from its compartment 23.
The bar code on the extracted video tape or cartridge is then read by the laser bar code reader 110, to verify that it is the correct video tape. If the tape is correct, then the arm 53 is actuated to dispense the tape through the opening 51. If the tape is incorrect, then as previously mentioned the dispenser 1 will have -to re-organize its stock of video tapes and check on their locations. In this case, an appropriate message can be displayed on the video display unit 150, to indicate that the stock is being checked for the required video tape.
Once a required tape has been dispensed, the dispenser 1 will again provide a fresh prompt on the video display unit 150 for the number of a desired tape. This procedure can be re~eated, until the user has obtained the desired number of video tapes.
Before dis~ensinq a tape the memorv of the centr~l-comput~r O
70 will be checked, to ascertain wh~.ther the us~r ~?ill e~ceed -74~;~
his credit limit if a further video tape is dispensed. In this respect, the credit limit is determined by the deposit charge for each tape, rather than for the rental charge, together with rental charges for previously used and returned tapes. For example, the rental fee for each tape could be $6.00, and the deposit for each tape could be $80.00. If the user takes three video tapes, then until these tapes are returned, his account is considered to be debited with ~2~0.00 . If this user has previously incurred five rental charges of $6.00, then his total effective debit would be $270.00. If he wished to withdraw a further video tape, a further debit of ~80.00 would have to be made, bringing the customer's total debit to $350.00. The computer 70 would check whether a total debit of $350.00 would exceed the customer's prescribed credit limit. If the limit would be exceeded then no further tapes are dispensed and an c3ppropriate message is displayed.
Each time a video tape is returned, then the deposit charge less the rental charge, i.e $74.00 in this example, is credited to the customer's account~ ¦
It is to be appreciated that, since the deposit charge for each tape could he more than ten times the rental charge, it would be unwise to allow any user to have a large number of tapes, even though the rental charge may be quite modest. For example, each user could be limited to three video tapes. Since
2~ each dispenser l should be available at all times, this should not cause any great inconvenience.
Once a user has received the required tapes, he can . .
enter a code to this effec~, and the printer module 120 will then print a receipt indicating the charges made to his account.
This receipt could also indicate the net charges that will be made to his account, when the video tapes have been returned.
Also, the computer 70 can be programmed to automatically issue a receipt, if it determines at any time that the user could not take out another tape without exceeding his credit limit.
To return a video taper the user must first insert his credit card, so that the computer 70 knows which account to credit.
Accepting returned video tapes or other articles only after the insertion of a credit card has the advantage that misuse of or tampering with the dispenser by unauthorized persons is prevented or reduced: e.g. it could prevent an unauthorized person inserting rubbish and instructing the dispenser 1 that it is a returned video tape. To this end, the opening 51 could be provided with an internal closure member which is only opened after a credit card has been inserted and verified.
To return each individual tape, the video tape is inserted into the opening 51. The arm 53 then moves the video tape to one or more positions where the returned video tape is checked. The bar code on the returned tape is read by the laser bar code reader 110 to identify the video tape. The bar code is placed across a joint in a casing of the video tape, and this provides one check on the integrity of the returned video tape.
If the casing has been opened and the bar code damaged, then the har code will unreadable and the video tape will be rejected.
Also, magnetic identification, light beams and infrared radiation can be used to check a returned tape. Once a returned tape has been verified, the computer 70 checks its database for an empty compartment 23 and the empty status of that compartment 23 is checked from the sensor for that compartment 23. The arm S3 and the respective carousel 20 are then acuated to insert the returned video tape into the chosen compartment 23, and a record of this location for that returned video tape is made in the database of the computer 70. For each returned tape, a credit is made to the user's account, the credit being the deposit charge less the rental charge. Again, the customer or user is provided with a printed receipt by the printer module 120, giving details of the returned tapes and the credits made to his account.
At the end of each transaction, whether it be a withdrawal or return of a video tape, the voice synthesizer 140 and the video display unit 150 can provide a message such as "Thank You"~ Also, at this stage, they could provide details of video tapes or special offers, that will be available in the near future.
The provision of fibre optics communication 250 RF
communcia~ion 240 & telecommunication 230 provides for considerable flexibility in operation. The computer 70 has both RAM and ROM
memories, with the RAM memory being provided either entirely or in part by the RAM disc 210. Details of all transactions, both withdrawals and returns, are recorded in the RAM memory. These details could comprise: time of transaction; tape numbers;
account number; a record of any returned tape that is rejected;
credits and debits made to the account. At certain preset times, or when instructed, the computer 70 will transmit all the .
in'ormation in its memory to the central computer. Preferably, this information is transmitted at off-peak times.
Also, the central computer can control the computer 70 of t~e dispensex l in various ways and transmit information to the computer 70. The computer 70 can be instructed to alter the way in which transactions are recorded. Also, the prices or rental charges for different items can be varied directly by the central computer. Thus, overnight, one could effect a price change in all dispensers connected to a central computer.
The interconnection between the computer 70 and a central computer can also be used for transmitting general data from a store, in which the dispenser l is located, to a head office. ~ach evening the store manager could enter details of the days transactions in the store and stock levels etc. Similiarly, the central computer could transmit information concerning price charses, details of goods to be delivered etc. This informa~ion is preferably transmitted at off-peak periods, and can be present-ed in printed form by the printer module 120.
The dispenser l can be provided with a stand by power sup?ly in order to maintain the memory, in case of a power failure.
I,s .here is a power failure, the central computer is notified and all stored data is immediately transmitted to the central computer.
If the dispenser 1 develops a faulty, it can be programmed to only be opened, if a special code is used and optionally if a particular credit card is inserted. Any such opening is recorded and details are transmitted to the central compu'er. A variant of the dispenser l could be provided adjacent ~2~7~
- 2~ -an external storage area, from which goods can be selected, the goods being identified in various ways, such as bar codes or priceO
As described above, after an article has been dispensed, a deposit charge is recorde~ on the appropriate account. When the article is returned, the deposit charge less the rental charge is credited to that account~ The rental charge could either be a flat rate charge or could be dependant on the period during which the article is out o the machine, the rental period. An alternative charging technique would be to charge initially only the rental, or the minimum rental chaxge, to the user's account.
The details of the tapes withdrawn and the user's account number would then be stored either in the computer of the dispenser or the central computer. If the user failed to return the tape within a pxeset time period, a replacement charge would be debited on his account. Alternati~ely, ~hen the rental charge depends on the rental period, the :rental charge could simply be allowed to accumulate until it reaches a maximum charge equivalent to the replacement cost of the article. Also, if the rental charge depends on the rental period, each increment of the rental charge can be recorded on a user's account as it is incurred, or alternatively the total rental charge can be recorded when the article is returned or when the maximum charge is reach.
The dispenser could be used for video tapes containing entertainment or educational films, or for video games. Since video games presently are packaged in smaller packages than video tapes, they can be provided with separate storage compartments which are small~r than the compartments for video tapes. These smaller compartments could be provided in a separate carousel, or in a carousel having a mixture of small and large compartments.
It is possible that the dispenser could hold more than one copy of each video tape. For popular tapes, it is envisaged that 5-10 copies could be stored in each dispenser. The stocking of each dispenser can be determined from the popularity of each 1~ tape which is calculated from statistics compiled in a central computer. As the popularity of a particular tape declines, the number of copies of it held in a dispenser can be decreased. It is envisaged that approximately 20% of the tapes in each dispenser will be changed each month.
To faciliate changing the display cards on the front of the dispenser, a removable, and transparent covex can be provided. Thus, the display cards can be changed, without opening the dispenser. Also, for security purposes, this cover need not provide access to the interior of the dispenser.
For some uses, particularly sales of beverages, the or each ~arousel could be automaticall~ filled up by, for example, a gravity fed supply of articles. This could greatly increase the dispenser's storage capacity. Also~ the dispenser could be arranged as part of a building. Only the front panel would be visable from the outside, and the storage unit and dispensing and receiving unit could be provided in a room or space within the building.
~2~7~
- ~8 -.
The storage unit cculd be provided with storage devices other than cylindrical carousels. For example belts with pockets could be provided, with main spans of the belts extending .
vertically or horizontally.
Once a user has received the required tapes, he can . .
enter a code to this effec~, and the printer module 120 will then print a receipt indicating the charges made to his account.
This receipt could also indicate the net charges that will be made to his account, when the video tapes have been returned.
Also, the computer 70 can be programmed to automatically issue a receipt, if it determines at any time that the user could not take out another tape without exceeding his credit limit.
To return a video taper the user must first insert his credit card, so that the computer 70 knows which account to credit.
Accepting returned video tapes or other articles only after the insertion of a credit card has the advantage that misuse of or tampering with the dispenser by unauthorized persons is prevented or reduced: e.g. it could prevent an unauthorized person inserting rubbish and instructing the dispenser 1 that it is a returned video tape. To this end, the opening 51 could be provided with an internal closure member which is only opened after a credit card has been inserted and verified.
To return each individual tape, the video tape is inserted into the opening 51. The arm 53 then moves the video tape to one or more positions where the returned video tape is checked. The bar code on the returned tape is read by the laser bar code reader 110 to identify the video tape. The bar code is placed across a joint in a casing of the video tape, and this provides one check on the integrity of the returned video tape.
If the casing has been opened and the bar code damaged, then the har code will unreadable and the video tape will be rejected.
Also, magnetic identification, light beams and infrared radiation can be used to check a returned tape. Once a returned tape has been verified, the computer 70 checks its database for an empty compartment 23 and the empty status of that compartment 23 is checked from the sensor for that compartment 23. The arm S3 and the respective carousel 20 are then acuated to insert the returned video tape into the chosen compartment 23, and a record of this location for that returned video tape is made in the database of the computer 70. For each returned tape, a credit is made to the user's account, the credit being the deposit charge less the rental charge. Again, the customer or user is provided with a printed receipt by the printer module 120, giving details of the returned tapes and the credits made to his account.
At the end of each transaction, whether it be a withdrawal or return of a video tape, the voice synthesizer 140 and the video display unit 150 can provide a message such as "Thank You"~ Also, at this stage, they could provide details of video tapes or special offers, that will be available in the near future.
The provision of fibre optics communication 250 RF
communcia~ion 240 & telecommunication 230 provides for considerable flexibility in operation. The computer 70 has both RAM and ROM
memories, with the RAM memory being provided either entirely or in part by the RAM disc 210. Details of all transactions, both withdrawals and returns, are recorded in the RAM memory. These details could comprise: time of transaction; tape numbers;
account number; a record of any returned tape that is rejected;
credits and debits made to the account. At certain preset times, or when instructed, the computer 70 will transmit all the .
in'ormation in its memory to the central computer. Preferably, this information is transmitted at off-peak times.
Also, the central computer can control the computer 70 of t~e dispensex l in various ways and transmit information to the computer 70. The computer 70 can be instructed to alter the way in which transactions are recorded. Also, the prices or rental charges for different items can be varied directly by the central computer. Thus, overnight, one could effect a price change in all dispensers connected to a central computer.
The interconnection between the computer 70 and a central computer can also be used for transmitting general data from a store, in which the dispenser l is located, to a head office. ~ach evening the store manager could enter details of the days transactions in the store and stock levels etc. Similiarly, the central computer could transmit information concerning price charses, details of goods to be delivered etc. This informa~ion is preferably transmitted at off-peak periods, and can be present-ed in printed form by the printer module 120.
The dispenser l can be provided with a stand by power sup?ly in order to maintain the memory, in case of a power failure.
I,s .here is a power failure, the central computer is notified and all stored data is immediately transmitted to the central computer.
If the dispenser 1 develops a faulty, it can be programmed to only be opened, if a special code is used and optionally if a particular credit card is inserted. Any such opening is recorded and details are transmitted to the central compu'er. A variant of the dispenser l could be provided adjacent ~2~7~
- 2~ -an external storage area, from which goods can be selected, the goods being identified in various ways, such as bar codes or priceO
As described above, after an article has been dispensed, a deposit charge is recorde~ on the appropriate account. When the article is returned, the deposit charge less the rental charge is credited to that account~ The rental charge could either be a flat rate charge or could be dependant on the period during which the article is out o the machine, the rental period. An alternative charging technique would be to charge initially only the rental, or the minimum rental chaxge, to the user's account.
The details of the tapes withdrawn and the user's account number would then be stored either in the computer of the dispenser or the central computer. If the user failed to return the tape within a pxeset time period, a replacement charge would be debited on his account. Alternati~ely, ~hen the rental charge depends on the rental period, the :rental charge could simply be allowed to accumulate until it reaches a maximum charge equivalent to the replacement cost of the article. Also, if the rental charge depends on the rental period, each increment of the rental charge can be recorded on a user's account as it is incurred, or alternatively the total rental charge can be recorded when the article is returned or when the maximum charge is reach.
The dispenser could be used for video tapes containing entertainment or educational films, or for video games. Since video games presently are packaged in smaller packages than video tapes, they can be provided with separate storage compartments which are small~r than the compartments for video tapes. These smaller compartments could be provided in a separate carousel, or in a carousel having a mixture of small and large compartments.
It is possible that the dispenser could hold more than one copy of each video tape. For popular tapes, it is envisaged that 5-10 copies could be stored in each dispenser. The stocking of each dispenser can be determined from the popularity of each 1~ tape which is calculated from statistics compiled in a central computer. As the popularity of a particular tape declines, the number of copies of it held in a dispenser can be decreased. It is envisaged that approximately 20% of the tapes in each dispenser will be changed each month.
To faciliate changing the display cards on the front of the dispenser, a removable, and transparent covex can be provided. Thus, the display cards can be changed, without opening the dispenser. Also, for security purposes, this cover need not provide access to the interior of the dispenser.
For some uses, particularly sales of beverages, the or each ~arousel could be automaticall~ filled up by, for example, a gravity fed supply of articles. This could greatly increase the dispenser's storage capacity. Also~ the dispenser could be arranged as part of a building. Only the front panel would be visable from the outside, and the storage unit and dispensing and receiving unit could be provided in a room or space within the building.
~2~7~
- ~8 -.
The storage unit cculd be provided with storage devices other than cylindrical carousels. For example belts with pockets could be provided, with main spans of the belts extending .
vertically or horizontally.
Claims (21)
PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. An article dispenser comprising:
a storage unit for storing articles;
a card reading unit capable of receiving a card and reading data on that card;
a selection unit actuatable by a user to generate a selection signal representative of a selected article;
a dispensing and receiving unit which is responsive to a selection signal to withdraw a selected article from the storage unit and to dispense that article, and which includes a inlet for returned articles, and a means for receiving and checking a returned article, returning that article to the storage unit for later retrieval and dispensing when required, and generating a return signal; and a central processor unit connected to the storage unit, the card reading unit, the selection unit and the dispensing and receiving unit, which central processor unit determines on which account a charge should be recorded from data supplied by the card reading unit, and, for each dispensed article, records a charge on that account, with a replacement charge being recorded if the article is not returned as indicated by the absence of a return signal.
a storage unit for storing articles;
a card reading unit capable of receiving a card and reading data on that card;
a selection unit actuatable by a user to generate a selection signal representative of a selected article;
a dispensing and receiving unit which is responsive to a selection signal to withdraw a selected article from the storage unit and to dispense that article, and which includes a inlet for returned articles, and a means for receiving and checking a returned article, returning that article to the storage unit for later retrieval and dispensing when required, and generating a return signal; and a central processor unit connected to the storage unit, the card reading unit, the selection unit and the dispensing and receiving unit, which central processor unit determines on which account a charge should be recorded from data supplied by the card reading unit, and, for each dispensed article, records a charge on that account, with a replacement charge being recorded if the article is not returned as indicated by the absence of a return signal.
2. An article dispenser as claimed in claim 1, wherein -the storage unit comprises a rotatable cylindrical carousel with its axis disposed vertically, and a first stepping motor connected to the carousel for rotating the carousel stepwise.
3. An article dispenser as claimed in claim 2, wherein the dispensing and receiving unit includes an arm which includes a claw for gripping and manoeuvring articles, the claw being movable in three dimensions.
4. An article dispenser as claimed in claim 3, wherein the arm comprises: a vertical column mounted for rotation about a vertical axis; a second stepping motor connected to the vertical column for rotating the vertical column stepwise; a horizontal member mounted on the vertical column and movable vertically; a third stepping motor mounted on the horizontal member for driving the horizontal member stepwise up and down the vertical column; an extension member slidably mounted with respect to the horizontal member for horizontal movement relative thereto; a fourth stepping motor mounted on the horrizontal member for driving the extension member stepwise horiztonally; a claw mounted on a free end of the extension member; and a solenoid mounted on the horizontal member and connected to claw for opening and closing the claw.
5. An article dispenser as claimed in claim 4, which includes: digital computation circuits, which are connected to and controlled by the central processor unit and which are connected to and control the cylindrical carousel, a motor driver and controller, which is connected to and controlled by the digital computation circuits and which is connected to and controls the first, second, third and fourth stepping motors and the solenoid.
6. An article dispenser as claimed in claim 1, wherein the selection unit includes a membrane keyboard.
7. An article dispenser as claimed in claim 1, which includes a bar code reader for reading bar codes on articles to identify articles, wherein the dispensing and receiving unit is capable of moving articles past the bar code reader so that their bar codes are read, and wherein the dispensing and receiving unit is arranged to reject any returned articles whose bar codes cannot be read.
8. An article dispenser as claimed in claim 1, which includes a printer module, for printing receipts for users and instructions to a keeper of the dispenser, the printer moduler being connected to the central processor unit.
9. An article dispenser as claimed in claim 1, which includes a voice synthesizer unit, which is connected to the computer, and which in use, is actuated to provide one or more of: instructions for a user of the dispenser, music, and an alarm warning.
10. An article dispenser as claimed in claim 9, which includes a video display unit and a video controlled sub-system for providing a video signal for the video display unit with both of the video display unit and the video controlled sub-system being connected to and controlled by the central processor unit, and wherein an audio signal for accompanying the video display unit is provided via the voice synthesizer unit.
11. An article dispenser as claimed in claim 1, which includes a security system module, connected to the central processor unit, for monitoring the security of the article dispenser and/or the security of the surroundings of the article dispenser.
12. An article dispenser as claimed in claim 11, wherein the security system includes, within the dispenser, one or more of: a switch actuated by opening of the dispenser; a light sensor; a heat sensor; and a smoke detector.
13. An article dispenser as claimed in claim 1, which includes an energy management system, connected to the central processor unit, for controlling energy use by the dispenser and/
or energy use in a building housing the dispenser.
or energy use in a building housing the dispenser.
14. An article dispenser as claimed in claim 13, wherein the energy management system is connected to a timer unit, for controlling energy use at different times of day.
15. An article dispenser as claimed in claim 1, which includes a RAM disc, for storing data which is connected to the central processor unit.
16. An article dispenser as claimed in claim 1, which includes a bank of switches connected to the central processor unit.
17. An article dispenser as claimed in claim 1, which includes a heater and an AC sub-system.
18. An article dispenser as claimed in claim 1, which includes one or more of RF communication, fibre optic communication and telecommunication, for communicating with a central computer.
19. An article dispenser as claimed in claim 3, which includes a removable side panel and wherein the arm is provided adjacent the removable side panel, whereby the side panel can be removed and an additional storage unit including a second cylindrial carousel can be attached to the article dispenser so that the first-mentioned cylindrical carousel and the second cylindrical carousel are disposed symmetrically on opposite sides of the arm.
20. An article dispenser as claimed in claim 1, wherein for each dispensed article, the central processor unit records a replacement charge as a debit on the appropriate account, and credits that account with the replacement charge less a rental charge when that article is returned.
21. An article dispenser as claimed in claim 1, wherein, for each dispensed article, the central processor unit initially records a rental charge, and only records a replacement charge on the appropriate account, if the article is not returned with a predetermined period.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000419048A CA1207411A (en) | 1983-01-07 | 1983-01-07 | Article dispenser |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000419048A CA1207411A (en) | 1983-01-07 | 1983-01-07 | Article dispenser |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1207411A true CA1207411A (en) | 1986-07-08 |
Family
ID=4124279
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000419048A Expired CA1207411A (en) | 1983-01-07 | 1983-01-07 | Article dispenser |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA1207411A (en) |
Cited By (13)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP0249367A2 (en) * | 1986-05-29 | 1987-12-16 | L. Jack Bradt | Apparatus for dispensing and receiving articles |
| EP0287367A1 (en) * | 1987-04-16 | 1988-10-19 | Sankey Vending Limited | Card operated vending machine |
| FR2620842A1 (en) * | 1987-09-21 | 1989-03-24 | Erco Electronic Sa | Automatic dispenser for video cassettes or similar objects |
| US4839505A (en) * | 1986-05-29 | 1989-06-13 | Videomat Associates | Apparatus and method for storing and retrieving articles |
| EP0351335A1 (en) * | 1988-07-13 | 1990-01-17 | Societe D'etudes D'investissements Pour Les Affaires - Seia | Autonomous dispenser of publications |
| US4896024A (en) * | 1987-10-19 | 1990-01-23 | Diebold, Incorporated | Apparatus for dispensing and accepting return of reusable articles |
| US4995498A (en) * | 1986-11-06 | 1991-02-26 | Nsm Apparatebau Gmbh & Co. Kg | Rental and vending machine, particularly for video cassettes, and cassette case for video cassettes |
| US5007518A (en) * | 1989-02-13 | 1991-04-16 | Sam Crivello | Apparatus for renting articles |
| EP2113892A1 (en) * | 2008-05-02 | 2009-11-04 | NCR Corporation | System and method for remotely dispensing media discs with a plurality of user interface stations |
| EP2113891A1 (en) | 2008-05-02 | 2009-11-04 | NCR Corporation | System and method for remotely dispensing media discs |
| US8095236B2 (en) | 2008-06-26 | 2012-01-10 | Into Great Companies, Inc. | System and method for remotely buying, renting, and/or selling media discs |
| US8413881B2 (en) | 2010-02-22 | 2013-04-09 | Into Great Companies, Inc. | System of receiving prerecorded media discs from users |
| WO2014167031A1 (en) * | 2013-04-09 | 2014-10-16 | Šmon Samo | Improvements relating to dispensing systems |
-
1983
- 1983-01-07 CA CA000419048A patent/CA1207411A/en not_active Expired
Cited By (18)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP0249367A2 (en) * | 1986-05-29 | 1987-12-16 | L. Jack Bradt | Apparatus for dispensing and receiving articles |
| EP0249367A3 (en) * | 1986-05-29 | 1988-09-07 | L. Jack Bradt | Apparatus for dispensing and receiving articles |
| US4814592A (en) * | 1986-05-29 | 1989-03-21 | Videomat Associates | Apparatus and method for storing and retrieving articles |
| US4839505A (en) * | 1986-05-29 | 1989-06-13 | Videomat Associates | Apparatus and method for storing and retrieving articles |
| US4995498A (en) * | 1986-11-06 | 1991-02-26 | Nsm Apparatebau Gmbh & Co. Kg | Rental and vending machine, particularly for video cassettes, and cassette case for video cassettes |
| EP0287367A1 (en) * | 1987-04-16 | 1988-10-19 | Sankey Vending Limited | Card operated vending machine |
| WO1988008175A1 (en) * | 1987-04-16 | 1988-10-20 | Sankey Vending Limited | Card operated vending machine |
| FR2620842A1 (en) * | 1987-09-21 | 1989-03-24 | Erco Electronic Sa | Automatic dispenser for video cassettes or similar objects |
| US4896024A (en) * | 1987-10-19 | 1990-01-23 | Diebold, Incorporated | Apparatus for dispensing and accepting return of reusable articles |
| EP0351335A1 (en) * | 1988-07-13 | 1990-01-17 | Societe D'etudes D'investissements Pour Les Affaires - Seia | Autonomous dispenser of publications |
| US5007518A (en) * | 1989-02-13 | 1991-04-16 | Sam Crivello | Apparatus for renting articles |
| EP2113892A1 (en) * | 2008-05-02 | 2009-11-04 | NCR Corporation | System and method for remotely dispensing media discs with a plurality of user interface stations |
| EP2113891A1 (en) | 2008-05-02 | 2009-11-04 | NCR Corporation | System and method for remotely dispensing media discs |
| US8965570B2 (en) | 2008-05-02 | 2015-02-24 | Ncr Corporation | System and method for remotely dispensing media discs |
| US8095236B2 (en) | 2008-06-26 | 2012-01-10 | Into Great Companies, Inc. | System and method for remotely buying, renting, and/or selling media discs |
| US8413881B2 (en) | 2010-02-22 | 2013-04-09 | Into Great Companies, Inc. | System of receiving prerecorded media discs from users |
| US9123375B2 (en) | 2010-02-22 | 2015-09-01 | Into Great Companies, Inc. | System of receiving prerecorded media discs from users |
| WO2014167031A1 (en) * | 2013-04-09 | 2014-10-16 | Šmon Samo | Improvements relating to dispensing systems |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKEX | Expiry |