DE102015212271B3 - Lifting device, vending machine - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a lift device for a vending machine, comprising a loading compartment for receiving goods output from a goods magazine, with at least one carriage for moving the loading compartment in a height direction, wherein the loading compartment extends in a straight position projecting from the carriage along a transverse direction, in order to be able to pick up goods in a goods magazine juxtaposed goods compartments, the loading compartment is tiltable about a tilted in a depth direction tilting axis in a tilted position on the carriage mounted. The present invention further relates to a vending machine with such a lifting device and a method for operating such a vending machine.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a lifting device for a vending machine, a vending machine with such a lifting device and a method for operating such a vending machine.

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

In vending machines, especially vending machines, there is often the requirement to present the goods offered therein before an issue. In most cases a transparent disc is provided on the front of the vending machine, behind which the goods are visible, usually standing, arranged in goods magazines. Such goods magazines usually have a plurality of juxtaposed goods compartments. Furthermore, a plurality of goods magazines is usually provided, which are arranged one above the other. The goods can be issued for example by a provided in the goods compartments spiral drive, a linear slide or other feed mechanism from the individual goods compartments.

In previous vending machines, after being dispensed from a goods compartment, the goods have fallen freely into an output device. However, the goods may be damaged or deteriorated. Therefore, a transfer system, a so-called lift, is used for the more controlled transfer of the goods from a goods compartment to an output device.

Such a transfer system is for example in the EP 2 232 451 B1 described. This has two configurations of transfer means, the transfer means in a first configuration having a concave shape in which products dispensed from a goods compartment are held, and in a second configuration the goods freely falling out of the transfer means into an exit.

Even if the drop height is reduced with such a transfer system, the goods still fall from a certain height from the transfer device into the output. Furthermore, a complicated mechanism with a plurality of moving parts such as levers, joints and guides and a spring bias is necessary to realize the various configurations of the transfer device.

The EP 1 916 633 A2 describes an output device with a goods output tray, in which a rotatably arranged goods lock is housed. This rotary goods lock contains an opening for passing the respective goods in the goods output tray.

The EP 2 634 755 A1 describes a product vending machine with a plurality of shelves and a vertically movable elevator.

The US 4,252,250 describes another vending machine.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Against this background, the present invention has for its object to provide an improved lift device.

According to the invention this object is achieved by a lifting device with the features of claim 1 and / or by a vending machine with the features of claim 8 and / or by a method having the features of claim 13.

• – Eine Liftvorrichtung für einen Warenautomaten, mit einem Ladefach zur Aufnahme von aus einem Warenmagazin ausgegebenen Waren, mit zumindest einem Laufschlitten zum Verfahren des Ladefachs in einer Höhenrichtung, wobei sich das Ladefach in einer geraden Stellung vom Laufschlitten abstehend entlang einer Querrichtung erstreckt, um aus in einem Warenmagazin nebeneinander angeordneten Warenfächern Waren aufnehmen zu können, wobei das Ladefach um eine in einer Tiefenrichtung orientierte Kippachse in eine verkippte Stellung verkippbar am Laufschlitten gelagert ist.
• – Ein Warenautomat, insbesondere Verkaufsautomat, mit einer Vielzahl von übereinander angeordneten Warenmagazinen, wobei jedes Warenmagazin eine Mehrzahl von in einer Querrichtung nebeneinander angeordneten Warenfächern zur Aufnahme von Waren aufweist, mit einer erfindungsgemäßen Liftvorrichtung, mit einer Ausgabevorrichtung zur Ausgabe einer Ware aus dem Automaten, wobei die Liftvorrichtung vorgesehen ist, aus den Warenfächern ausgegebene Waren aufzunehmen, zur Ausgabevorrichtung zu transportieren und durch Verkippen des Ladefachs in die Ausgabevorrichtung zu übergeben.
• – Ein Verfahren zum Betreiben eines Warenautomaten, insbesondere eines erfindungsgemäßen Warenautomaten, mit den Schritten: Ausgabe einer Ware aus einem Warenfach eines Warenmagazins, welches eine Vielzahl von in einer Querrichtung nebeneinander angeordneten Warenfächern aufweist, in ein Ladefach einer Liftvorrichtung; Verfahren des Ladefachs in Höhenrichtung zu einer Ausgabevorrichtung; Übergabe der Ware aus dem Ladefach an die Ausgabevorrichtung durch Verkippen des Ladefachs um eine in einer Tiefenrichtung orientierte Kippachse.

Accordingly, it is provided:

• - A lift device for a vending machine, comprising a loading compartment for receiving goods discharged from a goods magazine, with at least one carriage for moving the loading compartment in a height direction, wherein the loading compartment in a straight position extending from the carriage extends along a transverse direction to extend from in a goods magazine juxtaposed goods compartments to be able to receive goods, wherein the loading compartment is tiltable about a tilted in a depth direction tilting axis in a tilted position mounted on the carriage.
• - A vending machine, in particular vending machine, with a plurality of stacked goods magazines, each goods magazine having a plurality of juxtaposed in a transverse direction goods compartments for receiving goods, with a lifting device according to the invention, with an output device for dispensing a product from the machine, said the lift device is provided to receive goods issued from the goods compartments, to transport them to the dispensing device and to transfer them by tilting the loading tray into the dispensing device.
• A method for operating a vending machine, in particular a vending machine according to the invention, comprising the steps of: dispensing a product from a goods compartment of a goods magazine, which has a plurality of goods compartments arranged side by side in a transverse direction, into a loading compartment of a lift device; Method of loading compartment in height direction to an output device; Transfer of the goods from the loading compartment to the delivery device by tilting the loading compartment about a tilting axis oriented in a depth direction.

The idea underlying the present invention is to provide a loading compartment mounted on a carriage for tilting about a tilting axis extending in the depth direction. This enables a smooth depositing of goods in an output device. At the same time this allows a realization with a very simple mechanism or kinematics, which in particular requires no additional drives, lever, additional joints or the like.

The carriage is preferably arranged laterally on the lift device and preferably runs in a vertically extending guide. The loading compartment extends from the carriage in the straight position along a transverse direction, in particular parallel to a goods magazine.

Preferably, the loading compartment extends over the entire width of the goods magazine. Alternatively, the loading compartment can also be provided narrower and / or additionally movable in the transverse direction.

It is also possible to provide two parallel running carriages, in particular on both sides of the lifting device.

A carriage is understood to mean a carriage running in the guide, which is driven either externally, for example via a belt or chain drive, or internally, for example by means of an integrated motor. A linear drive of the carriage in the guide is conceivable.

Under a height direction is preferably a vertical direction to understand.

A transverse direction or width direction of the loading compartment is preferably to be understood as meaning a horizontal direction, which corresponds in particular to the width direction of a goods magazine, and along which the goods compartments are arranged next to one another. In a vending machine, this usually corresponds at the same time to the horizontal direction in the plane of the front or the transparent front window. Thus, the front of the vending machine, the goods magazine and the loading tray in the horizontal transverse direction are preferably parallel to each other.

Accordingly, a horizontal position of the loading compartment is to be understood as meaning a straight position of the loading compartment.

A depth direction is preferably to be understood as meaning a likewise horizontal direction which runs transversely to the transverse direction (or width direction) within a horizontal plane.

The height direction, the transverse direction and the depth direction are thus preferably perpendicular to each other and thus span an orthogonal directional system. However, the invention is not limited to this, but deviations from orthogonality of directions are also included. In particular, manufacturing tolerances and deviations are included within the scope of a setting range or in the context of a professional interpretation of the height, transverse and depth direction. Conceivable are slight deviations in the direction of up to a maximum of 45 °, preferably in the range of less than 10 °.

Thus, the transverse and depth directions are also to be understood as directions which, if appropriate, run slightly obliquely to a horizontal plane and / or extend at an angle to one another which deviates slightly from a right angle. The same applies analogously for a straight position of the loading compartment.

Accordingly, the height direction is also to be understood as meaning directions that are slightly oblique to the vertical in a vertical plane.

A tilt axis is to be understood as an axis around which the loading compartment can be tilted as required. In particular, the goods compartment can be tilted freely, that is to say gravity-accelerated. For the tilting axis extending in the depth direction is particularly advantageous, because the shape of the loading compartment is due to the width of the goods magazine usually elongated along the horizontal transverse direction and only laterally mounted on the carriage. For a gravity-accelerated tilting is thus advantageously a maximum lever arm available, so that the tilting can run reliably.

However, the invention is not limited to gravity-accelerated tilting. Rather, in addition, a biasing spring biasing the tilt axis in the straight position of the loading compartment may be provided to assist the tilting in the tilted position. Furthermore, a motor-driven tilting is conceivable. For example, a tilting motor may be provided for this purpose, which is integrated in particular in the carriage or in the loading compartment. Advantageous embodiments and further developments will become apparent from the other dependent claims and from the description with reference to the figures of the drawing.

According to one embodiment, a latching mechanism for releasably locking the loading compartment in the straight position is provided on the carriage and optionally or additionally on another carriage. Thus, the loading compartment is in the straight position, which preferably represents a horizontal position, releasably held or fixed by the latching mechanism. To tilt the loading compartment, the locking mechanism is easily released or released. Thus, advantageously a particularly simple design and thus also easy to produce tilting and locking mechanism is created. The locking mechanism may be provided on the same carriage as the tilting axis or on a second or further, parallel running carriage.

According to one embodiment, a release means for releasing the latching mechanism is provided in a predetermined position of the carriage, in particular in a deepest position of the carriage in the height direction. The latching mechanism is provided and designed to be unlocked when released by the triggering means, so that the loading compartment can be tilted about the tilting axis oriented in the depth direction. Advantageously, the loading tray is thus tilted at a predetermined position, so that it passes the goods, for example, to an output device of a vending machine. In particular, the loading compartment is tilted freely, d. H. it tilts from its horizontal position to the tilted position solely due to its gravity. The triggering means may be designed, for example, mechanically as a locking mechanism unlocking pin or the like. Alternatively, the triggering means may also be designed as an electrical contact, which causes an electrically or electrically driven unlocking of the latching mechanism. Furthermore, a non-contact triggering means is also conceivable, for example in the form of a Hall sensor in conjunction with a control device which activates an actuator on the latching mechanism in response to input of a predetermined signal of the Hall sensor for releasing the latching mechanism.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the tilting axis is arranged in the region of the bottom of the loading compartment. It is thus advantageously ensured that when loading the loading compartment on a horizontal surface, the loading compartment assumes a straight or horizontal position. Furthermore, it is thus ensured that the width of the loading compartment in the released state of the latching mechanism is not increased by tilting. This ensures that the loading compartment does not tilt or lock with other components when tilted. In particular, when the loading tray is tilted in a retracted state in a dispenser state is thus ensured that the loading tray and the output device do not interfere with each other, since the loading tray does not swing outwards during tilting.

According to one embodiment, the tilting axis has a stop. Alternatively or additionally, the loading compartment may also have a stop. The stop limits the tilting of the loading compartment to a maximum tilt angle relative to the transverse direction. When the maximum tilt angle is reached, the tilted position of the loading compartment is reached. The maximum tilt angle is less than 90 °, so that a return of the loading compartment is possible in a straight or horizontal position by placing on a substantially transverse or horizontal surface. At an angle greater than 90 °, the loading compartment would be tilted in the wrong direction when placing. At angles near 90 ° comparatively high forces are necessary to move the loading tray from the tilted position to a horizontal position. Therefore, reasonable maximum tilt angles are 85 ° maximum. For a reliable transfer of goods, the Verkippwinkel should not be less than 50 °. A good compromise between recoverability and reliability of transfer is achieved in the range of 60 ° to 70 °. Thus, a reasonable range of the maximum tilt angle between 50 ° and 85 °, preferably between 60 ° and 70 °.

In an advantageous embodiment, the latching mechanism is provided by returning the loading tray locked in the straight position. For locking the locking mechanism, d. H. for fixing the loading compartment in the straight, in particular horizontal, position, the loading compartment thus only needs to be brought into the straight position. The return of the loading tray in the straight position is preferably effected by placing the tilted loading tray on a substrate, in particular a horizontal surface, and moving the carriage in the direction of the ground until the straight position of the loading tray is reached again. The loading compartment slides off the ground. At the bottom of the loading compartment, in the region of an edge forming the lowest point of the loading compartment in the tilted position, sliding means, for example a roller or a friction-reduced curved surface, may be provided for this purpose. It is thus advantageous to return the loading tray in the straight position no additional return device needed, which reduces the number of parts and reduces the complexity of the lift device. Thus, advantageous costs for the manufacture, installation and maintenance of an additional feedback device can be saved. Alternatively or additionally, a motor for tilting and / or for returning the loading compartment may be provided.

According to one embodiment, a respective carriage is provided at the transverse ends of the loading compartment. The loading compartment is either formed in one piece or formed divided into a first and a second half. In the case of a split design, the first half is tiltably mounted on a first carriage about a first tilt axis oriented in the depth direction. Further, the second half is tiltably mounted on a second carriage about a second tilt axis oriented in the depth direction. The first and second carriages are preferably provided on two parallel, in particular vertical, guides, each extending at a transverse end of the loading compartment in the vertical direction and are preferably designed as rails. As an alternative to an embodiment with two halves, the loading compartment can also be formed in one piece. In this case, the loading compartment is tiltably mounted only at a transverse end to a carriage, which is provided in a vertically extending guide. In this case, preferably a second in a parallel second guide running Lauschlitten provided on which the locking mechanism is provided. Alternatively, only a single carriage may be provided, on which in addition to the tilting axis and the latching mechanism is provided.

In one embodiment of a vending machine, the loading compartment of the lift device is provided for the transfer of the goods into the dispensing device. For this purpose, the dispensing device is designed to be open or openable in an area facing the goods magazines, in particular on an upper side of the dispensing device, so that the loading compartment can enter the dispensing device through the opening. This has the particular advantage that the product does not fall over the height of the dispenser into the same, but can be stored gently within the dispenser. In particular, the loading compartment moves to transfer the goods to the bottom of the dispenser.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the release means are arranged such that the latching mechanism is released only after retraction of the loading compartment in the output device. Preferably, the release means release the locking mechanism only when the loading compartment has reached a bottom of the dispenser. The transfer of the goods to the output device is done by tilting the loading tray when moving out of the loading tray from the output device. During the transfer of the goods, therefore, the same does not fall out of the tilted or opened loading compartment, but remains, apart from a residual height between the bottom of the loading compartment and the bottom of the dispensing device, essentially at the same height while the loading compartment is tilted. When tilting the loading compartment creates a gap or opening through which the goods can slide into the dispenser, without that it moves much in the vertical direction. Advantageously, an unwanted dropping of the product is thus effectively avoided. This ensures that the goods are not damaged, worsened or undesiredly shaken. Conceivable but not necessary for this purpose is a complete placement of the bottom of the loading compartment on the bottom of the dispenser before releasing the locking mechanism to minimize any intermediate residual height.

According to one embodiment, the output device has a movable securing device. This is in particular designed as a movable partitioning element, a so-called shutter. The security device is designed and provided to secure in a closed state the area of the goods magazines in the output of a product from the dispenser against unauthorized access, in particular against a theft and / or vandalism. It is also provided in an open state to allow retraction of the loading tray in the dispenser. In particular, the securing device is for this purpose on a provided in the output device opening movable, preferably rotatable, provided so that it closes the opening in the closed state and releases in the open state for retracting the loading compartment.

According to an advantageous embodiment of a vending machine, the securing device is provided on its side facing the goods magazines in the closed position as a base for placing the tilted loading tray and returning the loading tray in the straight position and designed. For this purpose, the safety device in the closed state in a transverse direction, in particular horizontally, extending surface or slideway, on which the tilted loading compartment can slide. The return is carried out accordingly by moving the carriage in the direction of the securing device, d. H. in the height direction down, the loading compartment slides on the securing device and is thus guided in the straight, in particular horizontal, position. Upon reaching the straight position of the locking mechanism is automatically locked.

In a preferred embodiment of a method for operating a vending machine, the loading compartment moves into the dispenser for the transfer of the goods. In particular, the loading compartment moves in so far that it touches a bottom of the dispenser. Subsequently, the loading compartment is tilted out of the dispenser when moving out. Preferably, the loading compartment tilted freely, ie by its gravity. During the Tilting when moving out of the loading compartment from the dispenser, the goods are transferred to the dispensing device by forming a gap or opening during tilting, through which the goods then slides into the dispenser. Advantageously, the goods are not substantially displaced when tilting the loading compartment in the vertical direction, so that the goods do not fall out of the loading compartment when they are handed over, but are deposited gently in the dispensing device.

According to one embodiment of a method for operating a vending machine, a latching mechanism is released for tilting the loading compartment. The latching mechanism is provided by returning the loading tray from a tilted position to a straight position latched again. This happens in particular by placing the tilted loading compartment on a substrate. The straight position corresponds in particular to a horizontal position of the loading compartment. Preferably serves as a subsurface a foreclosure element of the output device. The partition member is moved to a retracted state after moving out of the loading tray from the dispenser. Subsequently, the loading compartment is placed on the closed partition element for returning to the straight position.

The above embodiments and developments can, if appropriate, combine with each other as desired. In particular, all the features of the vending machine can also be transferred to the method for operating the vending machine and vice versa all features of the method for operating the vending machine on the vending machine itself or its lift device transferable. Further possible refinements, developments and implementations of the invention also include combinations, not explicitly mentioned, of features of the invention described above or below with regard to the exemplary embodiments. In particular, the person skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the present invention.

CONTENT OF THE DRAWING

The present invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the exemplary embodiments indicated in the schematic figures of the drawing. It shows:

1 a lift device according to a first embodiment;

2 the lift device according to 1 with tilted loading compartment;

3 a detailed view of a loading compartment of a lift device according to 1 and 2 in a straight position;

4 a detailed view of the loading compartment according to 3 in a tilted position;

5 a lift device according to a second embodiment;

6 the lift device according to 5 with tilted loading compartment;

7 a schematic representation of a vending machine in a starting position;

8th a side view of a portion of the vending machine according to 7 ;

9 the vending machine according to 7 in a detachment position of the lift device;

10 the vending machine according to 9 with an output in the loading compartment of the lift device goods;

11 the vending machine according to 10 in a transfer position of the lift device;

12 the vending machine according to 11 in the transfer position with released locking mechanism;

13 the vending machine according to 12 when moving out of the lift device from the output device for transferring the goods;

14 the vending machine according to 13 in a tilted, moved out of the dispenser position of the lift device;

15 the vending machine according to 14 in a dispensing position of the dispenser shut-off dispenser;

16 the vending machine according to 15 after returning the loading tray from the tilted position to a straight position;

17 the vending machine according to 16 with open partition element of the dispenser;

18 the vending machine according to 17 with retracted to the starting position lift device;

19A a perspective view of an output device;

19B the output device according to 19A with shut-off element adjusted to a closed position;

20 a detailed view of a drive mechanism with marked hidden edges;

21 the drive mechanism according to 20 wherein the dispensing drum is rotated to an output position;

22 a sectional perspective view of an output device;

23 a perspective sectional view of the dispenser according to 22 with shut-off element adjusted to a closed position;

24 a sectional perspective view of an output drum;

25 a perspective sectional view of a partition element.

The accompanying figures of the drawing are intended to convey a further understanding of the embodiments of the invention. They illustrate embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain principles and concepts of the invention. Other embodiments and many of the stated advantages will become apparent with reference to the drawings. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale to each other.

In the figures of the drawing are the same, functionally identical and same-acting elements, features and components - unless otherwise stated - each provided with the same reference numerals.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

1 shows a lift device 1 according to a first embodiment. It is a lift device 1 with a one-piece loading compartment 2 ,

The lift device 1 also has two opposing carriages 3 on to which the loading compartment 2 is stored. The carriages 3 each run in a trained as a vertical track rail guide 13 , which in each case on a transverse side of the lift device 1 are arranged. Thus, the loading compartment is in a vertical height direction 4 adjustable.

In the illustrated straight or horizontal orientation of the loading compartment 2 this extends in the horizontal transverse direction 5 between the two carriages 3 , The loading compartment 2 is on a carriage 3 via a tilting axis running in a vertical depth direction 6 stored and on another opposite carriage 3 via a releasable locking mechanism 7 kept locked in the straight position.

The carriages are driven 3 in the same direction, for example via a motorized cable, not shown. Alternatively, a drive via a respective in the carriage 3 integrated motor or via one each in the guides 13 and the carriages 3 integrated linear drive possible.

2 shows the lift device 1 according to 1 with tilted loading compartment 2 , The illustrated tilted position of the loading compartment 2 is ingestible when the locking mechanism 7 is solved, so one at the loading compartment 2 provided latching bolt 14 from the locking mechanism 7 is released and the loading compartment 2 free around the tilt axis 6 can tilt. The locking mechanism 7 is designed such that a return of the loading compartment 2 in the straight position a locking of the locking mechanism 7 causes.

The tilt axis 6 is by means of one in the area of a floor 9 of the loading compartment 2 provided hinge 15 realized, which is a free tilting of the loading compartment 2 opposite the carriage 3 allows when the locking mechanism 7 is solved.

3 shows a detail view of a loading bay 2 a lift device 1 according to 1 and 2 in a straight position. In particular, it is the locking mechanism 7 clearly recognizable, which the said locking latch 14 and a spring-biased locking projection 16 includes. Will the loading compartment 2 along the vertical height direction 4 procedure, so the locking mechanism 7 at a predetermined location at which the loading compartment 2 should be tilted, in particular a lowest position or transfer position of the loading compartment on a trigger 8th , The triggering means is here schematically as a trigger pin 8th shown. The trigger pin 8th is arranged such that it is in processes of the loading compartment 2 in a corresponding position the locking projection 16 counteracts its spring bias, without losing the latching bolt 14 to block. Thus, the latch bolt 14 when the trigger pin 8th the locking projection 16 pushes, releases, leaving the loading compartment 2 around the tilt axis 6 is freely tiltable.

4 shows a detailed view of the loading bay 2 according to 3 in a tilted position. The loading compartment 2 is tilting in a guide groove 17 guided. The guide groove 17 has a stop 10 on which the maximum tilt angle about the tilt axis 6 limited or defined to 70 °.

Furthermore, one is in the area of the locking bar 14 arranged roll 18 provided, which is adapted to one below the loading compartment 2 arranged, here only schematically drawn underground 19 unroll when the two carriages 3 in the vertical height direction 4 move down. By unrolling the roll 18 on the ground 19 becomes the loading compartment 2 with further process of the carriages 3 in the height direction 4 down around the tilt axis 6 tilted back to the straight or horizontal position. When the straight position is reached, the locking latch engages 14 on the locking projection 16 a, so the locking mechanism 7 is locked again.

5 shows a lift device 1 according to a second embodiment. In contrast to the first embodiment according to the 1 to 4 has this lift device 1 a shared loading compartment 2 with a first half 11 and a second half 12 on. The first half 11 is at one in a first trained as a track guide 13a running first carriage 3a via a first tilt axis running in the horizontal depth direction 6a tiltable stored. The second half 12 is at one in a second trained as a track guide 13b running second carriage 3b via a second tilt axis running in the horizontal depth direction 6b tiltable stored.

Each of the carriages 3a . 3b has a latching mechanism 7a respectively. 7b on, which is not shown in detail here for clarity. It is a functional latching mechanism 7 of the first embodiment according to 1 to 4 essentially analog locking mechanism, with the difference that the respective tilting axis 6a respectively. 6b and the respective locking mechanism 7a respectively. 7b here in each case on the same carriage 3a respectively. 3b are provided. Accordingly, also not shown trigger means 8a . 8b on both sides of the lift device 1 at a predetermined position, at which the two halves 11 . 12 of the loading compartment 2 tilted, provided.

In the illustrated straight position of the two halves 11 . 12 these are each in horizontal transverse direction 5 from the respective carriages 3a . 3b from.

6 shows the lift device 1 according to 5 with tilted loading compartment 2 , the two halves 11 . 12 of the loading compartment 2 are in each case about their respective tilting axis 6a respectively. 6b tilted in a tilted position. Also in this second embodiment with shared loading compartment 2 is analogous to the first embodiment, not shown here stop 10 for each of the halves 11 . 12 of the loading compartment 2 provided to limit the tilt angle to 70 °.

Furthermore, the two halves 11 . 12 of the loading compartment 2 in a similar way as the loading compartment 2 according to the first embodiment in the straight position zurückverstellbar by being on a subsoil, not shown here below the loading compartment during an adjustment of the carriage 3a . 3b down in vertical height direction 4 slide. For this purpose, also not shown here rollers or alternatively sliding surfaces or the like in the region of the bottom 9a . 9b the two halves 11 . 12 be provided.

7 shows a schematic representation of a vending machine 20 in a starting position. The vending machine 20 is shown here for clarity without a housing and without a front panel or front screen schematically. Furthermore, the guides or rails 13a . 13b the lift device 1 hidden.

The vending machine 20 has a variety of goods magazines 21 on which in vertical height direction 4 are arranged one above the other. Shown are purely exemplary only two superimposed goods magazines 21 However, any one may match the size of the vending machine 20 and the amount of goods 23 adapted variety of goods magazines 21 be arranged one above the other.

The vending machine 20 has a lift device 1 on. This is exemplary here according to the second embodiment of the 5 and 6 shown with a two-part loading compartment. However, it may also be a lift device 1 according to the first embodiment of the 1 to 4 act with one-piece loading compartment. The following functional description or the method described below for operating the vending machine is thus analogous to a vending machine with a lift device 1 transferable according to the first embodiment.

The vending machine 20 also has an output device 24 on. In the illustrated embodiment, this is a so-called output drum.

The stacked goods magazines 21 each have a plurality of juxtaposed goods compartments 22 on. In the illustrated embodiment, by way of example, there are eight goods compartments arranged side by side 22 within a goods magazine 21 , However, any of the size of the vending machine 20 and to the width of the goods 23 adapted plurality of goods compartments 22 be provided side by side.

Every goods compartment 22 is with a conveying device for dispensing a commodity 23 in the loading compartment 2 Mistake. This may, for example, be a conveyor spiral, a spiral drive or a linearly movable slide. Furthermore, at a front end of each merchandise compartment 22 a retaining spring is provided which unintentionally dispenses a product 23 prevented.

In 7 is considered to be in a commodity subject 22 goods in stock 23 exemplified a beverage bottle. For the goods 23 However, it could also be any other goods, such as a beverage can, a repackaged or packed in a bag food or beverage, or non-food goods such as cigarette boxes, bicycle tubes, or other products.

In the in 7 illustrated starting position of the lift device 1 is this or their loading compartment 2 in the dispenser 24 retracted. Thus, from outside the machine, the view through a front window of the vending machine, not shown here 20 on the in the goods magazines 21 stored goods 23 free.

Is starting from this starting position a commodity 23 requested, for example due to user input from the outside, so begins the method for operating the vending machine 20 , In particular, a control device, not shown, is provided which controls the vending machines, in particular the drives of the vending machine, during operation, in particular to a user input, accordingly.

8th shows a side view of a portion of the vending machine 20 according to 7 , The section shown has a goods magazine 21 , the lift device 1 as well as the output device 24 on. The lift device 1 or their loading compartment 2 is analogous to in 7 shown position in the output device 24 retracted.

At the output device 24 is a safety device 26 , a so-called shutter, in the form of a movable partitioning element 26 provided, which in the illustrated open state retraction of the loading compartment 2 in the dispenser 24 allows. As with the in 8th indicated arrows, is a closed state of the foreclosure element 26 ingestible when the loading compartment 2 from the dispenser 24 moved out. The closed state is then by a motor-driven rotation of the foreclosure element 26 around a rotation axis 27 reached. In the closed state, not shown, the partitioning element blocks 26 the opening of the dispenser 24 to the goods magazines 21 , Thus, the range of goods magazines 21 from the dispenser 24 out of the way. On the mechanism of the partitioning element 26 is in relation to the 19 to 26 discussed in more detail.

9 shows the vending machine 20 according to 7 in a detachment position of the lift device 1 , In this position is the loading compartment 2 from the dispenser 24 in vertical height direction 4 pulled out to the top and at the height of a goods magazine 21 arranged. The lift device 1 is ready in this position, one in a goods compartment 22 of the goods magazine 21 stored goods 23 to take up, if these from the goods compartment 22 is issued.

10 shows the vending machine 20 according to 9 with one in the loading compartment 2 the lift device 1 issued goods 23 , Is the goods 23 , as shown, in the loading compartment 2 added, the lift device can 1 in vertical height direction 4 down to the dispenser 24 be proceeded to the goods 23 to the output device 24 to hand over.

11 shows the vending machine 20 according to 10 in a transfer position of the lift device 1 , in this transfer position is the lift device 1 or their loading compartment 2 in vertical height direction 4 down to the output device 24 method. In this transfer position, the goods can 23 to the output device 24 be handed over. This is done on both halves 11 . 12 of the loading compartment 2 the respective associated latching mechanism 7a . 7b , which is not shown here in detail for clarity, solved.

12 shows the vending machine 20 according to 11 in the transfer position with released locking mechanism 7a . 7b , With released locking mechanism 7a . 7b are the two halves 11 . 12 of the loading compartment 2 about their respective tilt axis 6a . 6b freely tiltable. Thus set the halves 11 . 12 of the loading compartment 2 on a floor 25 the output device 24 on. By moving out of the loading compartment 2 from the dispenser 24 in vertical height direction 4 upwards from the dispenser 24 tilt the halves 11 . 12 of the loading compartment 2 continue around their respective tilt axis 6a . 6b , whereby the goods in a gentle way to the output device 24 is transferable.

13 shows the vending machine 20 according to 12 when moving out of the lift device 1 from the dispenser 24 for the delivery of the goods 23 , When moving out of the loading bay 2 from the dispenser 24 tilt the halves 11 . 12 continue around their respective tilt axis 6a . 6b , The goods are gliding 23 on the halves 11 . 12 of the loading compartment 2 off, so the goods 23 gently, ie without falling, on the ground 25 the output device 24 is filed.

14 shows the vending machine 20 according to 13 in a tilted, out of the dispenser 24 moved out position of the lift device 1 , In this position is the lift device 1 completely out of the dispenser 24 moved out. Ie. the halves 11 . 12 of the loading compartment 2 are completely in the tilted position, including its deepest edge of the output device 24 moved out, so the output device 24 now by means of the partitioning element 26 can be closed.

15 shows the vending machine 20 according to 14 in an output position of the output device with closed partition element 26 ,

In this position, the halves 11 and 12 of the loading compartment 2 back their straight or horizontal position are brought by the carriages 3a and 3b the lift device 1 in vertical height direction 4 down towards the foreclosure element 26 be driven. This set the tilted halves 11 . 12 of the loading compartment 2 on the foreclosure element 26 on. The partitioning element 26 thus serves as a base on which the loading compartment 2 or its two halves 11 and 12 slide off and so on their respective tilt axis 6a . 6b be tilted back into the straight position, as indicated by the arrows.

16 shows the vending machine 20 according to 15 after returning the loading compartment 2 from the tilted position to a straight position. The goods 23 is already out of the dispenser 24 taken, so that it is now empty.

The loading compartment 2 is so far in the direction of the foreclosure element 26 do that with all its soil 9 or that the two halves 11 . 12 of the loading compartment 2 with their respective floors 9a . 9b completely on the foreclosure element 26 rest. In this straight position, the respective locks the halves 11 and 12 of the loading compartment 2 associated latching mechanism 7a . 7b , The loading compartment 2 is now releasably locked again in the straight position.

17 shows the vending machine 20 according to 16 with open partitioning element 26 the output device 24 , The partitioning element 26 is by rotation about the axis of rotation 28 back to the in 8th shown opened state. The lift device 1 can now be moved back to the starting position, in which the carriages 3a . 3b in vertical height direction 4 be moved down.

18 shows the vending machine 20 according to 17 with retracted to the starting position lift device 1 , The assumed starting position corresponds to that in 7 represented original starting position. The loading compartment is by moving the carriages 3a . 3b in vertical height direction 4 down into the dispenser 24 into it down.

The method of operating the vending machine 20 has now gone through a complete cycle. When requesting another true product 23 Accordingly, the method for operating the vending machine commences again.

19A shows a perspective view of an output device 24 , The output device 24 has a rotatable output drum 28 and an adjustable partitioning element 26 on. Further, a drive device 31 for adjusting the foreclosure element 26 and for rotating the output drum 28 intended.

The output drum 28 can be rotated between a pick-up position and an issue position. Shown is the output drum 28 in 19A the recording position. The output drum 28 is formed in the receiving position for receiving a product, not shown, and in the issue position for issuing the goods, not shown.

For receiving and dispensing a product is an opening 29 on the output drum 28 intended. In the illustrated receiving position is the opening 29 at a reception area 30 in which a commodity can be taken up. Thus, a product can be taken out of the loading compartment 2 the lift device in the output device 24 is handed over.

The partitioning element 26 is in an open position to release the receiving area 30 and in a closed position for inaccessible locking of the receiving area 30 provided and trained. Shown is the foreclosure element 26 in 19A in the open position. The partitioning element 26 is through the drive device 31 adjustable in the closed position, with respect to 19B will be discussed in more detail.

To issue the goods is the output drum 28 through the drive device 31 rotatable in the dispensing position. However, this is only possible if before the foreclosure element 26 is adjusted in the closed position.

19B shows the output device according to 19A with a foreclosure element adjusted to a closed position 26 , The recording area 30 is in the closed position of the foreclosure element 26 inaccessible.

Both the foreclosure element 26 as well as the output drum 28 are on a common axis of rotation 27 independently rotatably mounted. Accordingly, the foreclosure element 26 by means of the drive device 31 by rotating around the axis of rotation 27 be adjusted.

The drive device 31 includes a drive mechanism 32 that is a translation element 33 having. The translation element 33 is about one on the circumference of the translation element 33 provided toothing driven by a drive, not shown. For example, meshes with a pinion of the drive with the teeth of the translation element 33 ,

The output drum 28 is not manually open, it is via a mechanical cam through the same drive as the foreclosure element 26 over the translation element 33 powered by a motor. In order to prevent pinching a torque limit and thereby limiting the closing force is provided. For example, a torque limiter in the form of a slip clutch or in the form of a sensory detection of the torque and a corresponding control, which shuts off at a predetermined maximum torque realized. Furthermore, a control can be realized such that in the event that the drive does not reach its intended end position during rotation of the dispensing drum or during adjustment of the partitioning element within a certain time, it is assumed that something has been trapped in the flap and the drive therefore retracted becomes.

The translation element 33 is designed to be with one at the foreclosure element 26 provided first contact portion 34 to interact.

For this purpose, the translation element 33 a first pin 35 on. The first contact section 34 of the foreclosure element 26 has a first tour 36 on, in which the first pin 35 depending on the position of the translation element 33 intervene temporarily. By intervention of the first pin 35 in the first guide 36 is the isolation element 26 adjustable between the closed and the open position. In the illustrated embodiment leads in an open position of the partitioning element 26 according to 19A a rotation of the translation element 33 clockwise to adjust the foreclosure element 26 by a rotation about the axis of rotation 27 counterclockwise.

Furthermore, the translation element 33 a first barrel cam 37 on. The first contact section 34 of the foreclosure element 26 has a corresponding trained first tread 38 as well as a likewise correspondingly designed second tread 39 on. By engagement of the first barrel cam 37 in the first or second tread 38 . 39 in each case a positive connection can be produced, which the foreclosure element 26 locked.

The first tread 38 is arranged such that upon engagement of the first run cam 37 in the first tread 38 a locking of the partitioning element 26 takes place in the closed position. Such a situation is 19B shown.

The second tread 39 is arranged such that upon engagement of the first run cam 37 in the second tread 39 a locking of the partitioning element 26 done in the open position. Such a situation in 19A shown.

The first pin 35 and the first running cam 37 are each at a same, in 19B shown side of the translation element 33 arranged. In addition to the first pin 35 and for the first running cam 37 has the translation element 33 on the opposite side a second pin 40 and a second barrel cam 41 on. Furthermore, the output drum 28 one through the partitioning element 26 concealed second contact section 42 on.

20 shows a detailed view of a drive mechanism 32 with marked hidden edges. In the following the associated hidden sections or parts are described.

The translation element 33 is also designed to be with the on the output drum 28 provided second contact portion 42 to interact and points to the second pin 40 on. The second contact section 42 the output drum 28 has a second guide 43 in which the second pin 40 depending on the position of the translation element 33 intervene temporarily. By engaging the second pin 40 in the second guide 43 is the output drum 28 rotatable between the receiving position and the issue position.

In the illustrated embodiment leads in the receiving position of the output drum 28 according to 20 another rotation of the translation element 33 clockwise to a rotation of the output drum 28 around the axis of rotation 27 counterclockwise.

Furthermore, the translation element 8th a second barrel cam 41 on. The second contact section 42 the output drum 28 also has a correspondingly designed third tread 44 and also a corresponding thereto designed fourth tread 45 on. By means of an engagement of the second running cam 41 in the third or fourth tread 44 . 45 in each case a positive connection can be produced, which the output drum 28 locked.

The third tread 44 is arranged such that upon engagement of the second Laufnockens 41 in the third tread 44 a locking of the output drum 28 takes place in the admission position. Such a situation is in 20 shown.

The fourth tread 45 is arranged such that upon engagement of the second Laufnockens 41 in the fourth tread 45 a locking of the output drum 28 in the issue position. Such a situation is described below 21 shown.

21 shows the drive mechanism according to 20 wherein the dispensing drum is rotated to a dispensing position.

In this situation is by an intervention of the hidden here second Laufnockens 41 in the here hidden fourth tread 45 a locking of the output drum 28 in the issue position.

In the illustrated output position of the output drum 28 is also the opening 29 oriented to an externally accessible side, which previously in the receiving position by the output drum 28 was locked. Thus, one can be in the output drum 28 goods not shown now from the outside through the opening 29 from the output drum 28 be removed.

At the same time there is still a locking of the foreclosure element 26 by engagement of the first running cam 37 in the first tread 38 in front. The first running cam 37 points to a translation element 33 concentric circular shape, wherein only in the region of the first pin 35 a first recess 46 is provided, which for carrying out the first contact section 34 of the foreclosure element 26 serves. Thus, there is always an engagement of the translation element 33 in the first contact section 34 of the foreclosure element 26 present, either by means of the first barrel cam 37 or by means of the first pin 35 ,

The second barrel cam 41 is analogous to the first barrel cam 37 shaped, and with relative to the first running cam 37 An angular offset also concentric on the transmission element 33 arranged and with a second recess 47 provided, as in 20 shown. Accordingly, the second pin is also 40 with an equal angular offset to the first pin 35 arranged. It is therefore always an intervention of the translation element 33 in the second contact section 42 the output drum 28 present, either by means of the second barrel cam 42 or by means of the second pin 40 ,

The drive device 31 can only on one or on both sides of the output device 24 a drive mechanism 32 include. The entire drive mechanism 32 and the first and second contact portions 34 . 42 can accordingly on an opposite lateral side of the dispenser 24 be provided equally.

22 shows a perspective sectional view of an output device 24 ,

The output drum 28 has a front panel 48 on, which in the receiving position, a first side wall of the output drum 28 represents and closes an area in which in the issue position the opening 29 located. Furthermore, the output drum 28 a back wall 49 on, which in the receiving position, a second side wall of the output drum 28 represents. The back wall 49 is rounded.

Furthermore, the output drum 28 between the front panel 48 and the back wall 49 one opposite the opening 29 arranged ground 25 on. In addition, the output drum points 28 a lateral wall 50 on, in which the axis of rotation 27 is admitted.

The partitioning element 26 is in the in 4 shown opened position behind the rear wall 49 adjusted. The partitioning element 26 has a rounded sheet metal section 51 on, with the rounding of the sheet metal section 51 for rounding the back wall 49 corresponds. In particular, the respective curves of the rear wall 49 and the sheet metal section 51 with the rotation axis 27 formed as a center.

23 shows a perspective sectional view of the dispenser according to 22 with a foreclosure element adjusted to a closed position 26 , The output drum 28 is still in the reception position.

The recording area 30 is accordingly by the foreclosure element 26 inaccessible. Furthermore, the foreclosure element complements 26 in the closed position the shape of the output drum 28 in the receiving position such that the opening 29 is completely closed. Thus, a fully closed position of the dispenser 24 ingested.

In this closed position of the foreclosure element can a loading compartment 2 , for example as in 4 shown by means of a roller 18 , on the rounded sheet metal section 51 of the closed partition element 24 unroll, which then as below the loading bay 2 arranged underground 19 serves.

Turns the output drum 28 now in the output position, so there is an accessibility from the outside in the area, which previously through the front panel 48 is closed. The output device 24 thus also acts as a goods lock, which at no time a simultaneous opening to the receiving area 30 and to the outside. Instead, the dispensing drum only opens to the outside by rotation in the issue position when the foreclosure element 26 completely closed and locked. After the issue opens the foreclosure element 26 only by adjusting to the open position when the output drum 28 completely closed, that is rotated and locked in the receiving position.

With the output drum closed 28 in the receiving position and open foreclosure element 26 lets go the output drum 28 do not open manually. With the output drum open 28 in the dispensing position, the foreclosure element can be 26 do not open manually.

24 shows a perspective sectional view of an output drum 28 , the output drum 28 has an education as related to 22 is described.

25 shows a perspective sectional view of a partition element 5 ,

In addition to that in relation to 22 already described embodiment of the rounded sheet metal section 51 here is additionally a lateral section 52 of the foreclosure element 26 recognizable. Furthermore, a first contact section 34 of the foreclosure element 26 can be seen in which the axis of rotation 27 is admitted. The lateral section 52 connects the rounded sheet metal section 51 with the first contact section 34 ,

Although the present invention has been fully described above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not limited thereto but is modifiable in a variety of ways.

Thus, for example, in a vending machine instead of a lift device with a shared loading compartment as well as a lift device with a one-piece loading compartment used accordingly.

Furthermore, instead of a free tilting of the loading compartment and / or instead of the provision of a latching mechanism, a motorized tilting of the loading compartment is conceivable. In this case, optionally or in addition to the locking mechanism on a tilting motor, a self-locking gear, such as a worm gear, be provided to the loading compartment 2 in the horizontal position to hold or block.

For requesting a product by a user, an input or operating device coupled to the control device can furthermore be provided.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

lift device

2

tray

3, 3a, 3b

carriages

4

height direction

5

transversely

6, 6a, 6b

tilt axis

7, 7a, 7b

detent mechanism

8th

Trigger or release pin

9, 9a, 9b

ground

10

attack

11

first half

12

second half

13, 13a, 13b

Guide or track

14

indexing plungers

15

hinge

16

catch projection

17

guide

18

role

19

underground

20

Vending Machine

21

goods Magazine

22

were trade

23

Would

24

output device

25

ground

26

Safety device or foreclosure element

27

the rotation axis

28

output drum

29

opening

30

reception area

31

driving device

32

drive mechanism

33

translation element

34

first contact section

35

first pin

36

first guide

37

first barrel cam

38

first tread

39

second tread

40

second pin

41

second leadership

42

second contact section

43

second leadership

44

third tread

45

fourth tread

46

first recess

47

second recess

48

front panel

49

rear wall

50

lateral wall

51

rounded sheet metal section

52

lateral section

Claims (15)

Lifting device ( 1 ) for a vending machine, with a loading compartment ( 2 ) for receiving goods issued from a goods magazine, with at least one carriage ( 3 ; 3a . 3b ) for moving the loading compartment ( 2 ) in a height direction ( 4 ), whereby the loading compartment ( 2 ) in a straight position from the carriage ( 3 ; 3a . 3b ) projecting along a transverse direction ( 5 ) extends in order to be able to receive goods in a goods magazine juxtaposed goods compartments, the loading compartment ( 2 ) about a tilt axis oriented in a depth direction ( 6 ; 6a . 6b ) in a tilted position tiltable on the carriage ( 3 ; 3a . 3b ) is stored. Lifting device according to claim 1, characterized in that on the carriage ( 3 ; 3a . 3b ) and / or on another carriage ( 3 ; 3a . 3b ) a latching mechanism ( 7 ; 7a . 7b ) for releasably locking the loading compartment ( 2 ) is provided in the straight position. Lifting device according to claim 2, characterized in that in a predetermined position of the carriage ( 3 ; 3a . 3b ) a triggering means ( 8th ) for releasing the locking mechanism ( 7 ; 7a . 7b ) is provided, wherein the locking mechanism ( 7 ; 7a . 7b ) is provided and formed when released by the triggering means ( 8th ) so that the loading compartment ( 2 ) about the tilt axis oriented in the depth direction ( 6 ; 6a . 6b ) is tiltable in the tilted position. Lifting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tilting axis ( 6 ; 6a . 6b ) in the area of a floor ( 9 ) of the loading compartment ( 2 ) is arranged. Lifting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tilting axis ( 6 ; 6a . 6b ) and / or the loading compartment ( 2 ) a stop ( 10 ), the tilting of the loading compartment ( 2 ) to a maximum tilt angle relative to the transverse direction ( 5 ), wherein the maximum tilt angle is less than 90 °. Lifting device according to one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that the latching mechanism ( 7 ; 7a . 7b ) by returning the loading compartment ( 2 ) is provided latched in the straight position. Lifting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at the transverse ends of the loading compartment ( 2 ) in each case a carriage ( 3 ; 3a . 3b ) is provided, wherein the loading compartment ( 2 ) is formed in one piece or in a first and a second half ( 11 . 12 ) divided and with the first half ( 11 ) on a first carriage ( 3a ) about a tilt axis oriented in the depth direction ( 6a ) is tiltable and with the second half ( 12 ) on a second carriage ( 3b ) about a second tilt axis oriented in the depth direction ( 6b ) is tiltably mounted. Vending machine ( 2 ), with a plurality of superimposed goods magazines ( 21 ), each magazine ( 21 ) a plurality of in a transverse direction ( 5 ) juxtaposed goods compartments ( 22 ) for the reception of goods ( 23 ), with a lift device ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, with an output device ( 24 ) for dispensing a product from the vending machine ( 20 ), wherein the lift device ( 1 ), from the subjects ( 21 ) issued goods ( 23 ), to the dispenser ( 24 ) and by tilting the loading compartment ( 2 ) in the dispenser ( 24 ) to hand over. Vending machine according to claim 8, characterized in that the loading compartment ( 2 ) of the lift device ( 1 ) for handing over the goods ( 23 ) in the dispenser ( 24 ) is provided hineinfahrbar. Vending machine according to claim 9, characterized in that the release means ( 8th ) are arranged such that the latching mechanism ( 7 ; 7a . 7b ) only after entering the loading bay ( 2 ) in the dispenser ( 24 ), so that the transfer of the goods to the output device ( 24 ) by tilting the loading compartment ( 2 ) when moving out of the loading compartment ( 2 ) from the dispenser ( 24 ) he follows. Vending machine according to one of the preceding claims 8 to 10, characterized in that the dispensing device ( 24 ) a mobile one Safety device ( 26 ), which is designed and provided, in a closed state, the range of goods magazines ( 21 ) when issuing a product ( 23 ) from the dispenser ( 24 ) against unauthorized access and in an open state retracting the loading compartment ( 2 ) in the dispenser ( 24 ) to allow. Vending machine according to claim 11, characterized in that the securing device ( 26 ) at their commodity magazines ( 21 ) facing side in the closed position as a base for placing the tilted loading compartment ( 2 ) and returning the loading compartment ( 2 ) is provided and designed in the straight position. Method for operating a vending machine, comprising the steps of: issuing a product ( 23 ) from a goods compartment ( 22 ) of a goods magazine ( 21 ) having a plurality of in a transverse direction ( 5 ) juxtaposed goods compartments ( 22 ), in a loading compartment ( 2 ) a lift device ( 1 ); Method of loading compartment ( 2 ) in the height direction ( 4 ) to an output device ( 24 ); Handover of the goods ( 23 ) from the loading compartment ( 2 ) to the output device ( 24 ) by tilting the loading compartment ( 2 ) about a tilt axis oriented in a depth direction ( 6 ; 6a . 6b ). Method according to claim 13, characterized in that the loading compartment ( 2 ) for the delivery of the goods ( 23 ) in the dispenser ( 24 ) and the loading compartment ( 2 ) when moving out of the dispenser ( 24 ) is tilted. A method according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that for tilting the loading compartment ( 2 ) a latching mechanism ( 7 ; 7a . 7b ), by returning the loading compartment ( 2 ) can be locked again from a tilted position into a straight position.

Images