EP3113124B1 - Elevation controller, goods vending machine - Google Patents

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, in particular in vending machines, there is often a requirement to present the goods offered therein before they are dispensed. For this purpose, a transparent pane is usually provided on the front of the vending machine, behind which the goods are visible, usually standing, in goods magazines. Such goods magazines usually have a plurality of goods compartments arranged next to one another. Furthermore, a large number of goods magazines are usually provided, which are arranged one above the other. The goods can be output from the individual goods compartments, for example, by a spiral drive provided in the goods compartments, a linear slide or another feed mechanism.

In previous vending machines, the goods fell freely into a dispensing device after being dispensed from a goods compartment. However, this can damage or deteriorate the goods. A transfer system, a so-called lift, is therefore used for a 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 a transfer device, the transfer device having a concave shape in a first configuration in which products dispensed from a goods compartment are held, and in a second configuration the goods fall freely out of the transfer device into an output.

The US 2005/067426 A1 describes a transfer system with an XY delivery mechanism with two stationary, electronically controlled drive motors. These motors directly or indirectly drive tensioning elements such as belts, chains, cables, etc., which position components that slide horizontally and vertically. The dispensing mechanism uses a cup to transport it to a dispenser. A lower side of the cup engages in a dispensing chute via a sliding door when the cup is tilted to the side in order to let the product fall from the cup into the dispensing chute.

Even if the height of fall is reduced with such transfer systems, the goods still fall from a certain height from the transfer device into the output. Furthermore, a complex mechanism with a large number of moving parts such as levers, joints and guides as well as a spring preload is necessary in order to implement the various configurations of the transfer device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Against this background, the present invention is based on the object of specifying an improved lifting device.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by a lifting device with the features of patent claim 1 and / or by a vending machine with the features of patent claim 7 and / or by a method with the features of patent claim 12.

• 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 lifting device for a vending machine, with a loading compartment for receiving goods issued from a goods magazine, with at least one sliding carriage for moving the loading compartment in a vertical direction, the loading compartment extending in a straight position along a transverse direction, projecting from the running carriage, in order to get out in a Goods magazine to be able to accommodate goods compartments arranged next to one another, the loading compartment being mounted on the carriage so that it can be tilted about a tilting axis oriented in a depth direction in a tilted position.
• A vending machine, in particular a vending machine, with a plurality of goods magazines arranged one above the other, each goods magazine having a plurality of goods compartments arranged next to one another in a transverse direction for receiving goods, with a lifting device according to the invention, with an output device for outputting goods from the machine, the Lifting device is provided to pick up goods issued from the goods compartments, to transport them to the output device and to transfer them to the output device by tilting the loading compartment.
• A method for operating a vending machine, in particular a vending machine according to the invention, with the steps of: dispensing goods from a goods compartment of a goods magazine, which has a plurality of goods compartments arranged next to one another in a transverse direction, into a loading compartment of a lifting device; Moving the loading compartment in the height direction to an output device; Transfer of the goods from the loading compartment to the output device by tilting the loading compartment about a tilting axis oriented in a depth direction.

The idea on which the present invention is based consists in providing a loading compartment mounted on a running slide so that it can be tilted about a tilting axis running in the depth direction. This enables goods to be placed gently in an output device. At the same time, this allows implementation with very simple mechanics or kinematics, which in particular get by without additional drives, deflection levers, additional joints or the like.

The carriage is preferably arranged on the side of the lifting device and preferably runs in a guide running in the vertical direction. The loading compartment extends from the carriage in the straight position along a transverse direction, in particular parallel to a goods magazine.

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

Two parallel running carriages can also be provided, in particular on both sides of the lifting device.

A running slide is to be understood as a slide 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 also conceivable.

A vertical direction is preferably to be understood as a vertical direction.

A transverse direction or width direction of the loading compartment is preferably to be understood as 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 generally corresponds at the same time to the horizontal direction in the plane of the front or the transparent front pane. Thus, the front of the vending machine, the goods magazine and the loading compartment preferably each run parallel to one another in the horizontal transverse direction.

A straight position of the loading compartment is accordingly preferably to be understood as a horizontal position of the loading compartment.

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

The height direction, the transverse direction and the depth direction are thus preferably each perpendicular to one another and thus create an orthogonal system of directions. Indeed the invention is not restricted to this, but deviations from an orthogonality of the directions are also included. In particular, manufacturing tolerances and deviations within the framework of an adjustment range or within the framework of a professional interpretation of the height, transverse and depth directions are also included. Slight deviations in direction in the range of up to a maximum of 45 °, preferably in the range of less than 10 °, are conceivable.

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

The height direction is accordingly also to be understood as meaning directions which run slightly obliquely to the vertical in a vertical plane.

A tilting axis is to be understood as an axis about which the loading compartment can be tilted if necessary. In particular, the goods compartment can be tiltable freely, that is to say accelerated by gravity. The tilting axis running in the depth direction is particularly advantageous for this, because the shape of the loading compartment is elongated due to the width of the goods magazine, as a rule, along the horizontal transverse direction and is only supported on the side of the carriage. A maximum lever arm is therefore advantageously available for tilting that is accelerated by gravity, so that the tilting can proceed reliably.

However, the invention is not limited to tilting that is accelerated by gravity. Rather, additionally a biasing spring biasing the tilting axis in the straight position of the loading compartment can also be provided in order to support the tilting into the tilted position. Motorized tilting is also conceivable. For example, a tilt motor can be provided for this purpose, which is integrated in particular in the carriage or in the loading compartment.
Advantageous refinements and developments result from the further subclaims and from the description with reference to the figures of the drawing.

According to one embodiment, a locking mechanism for releasably locking the loading compartment in the straight position is provided on the running slide and optionally or additionally on a further running slide. The loading compartment is thus releasably held or fixed in the straight position, which preferably represents a horizontal position, by the latching mechanism. To tilt the loading compartment, the locking mechanism is simply released or released. In this way, a tilting and locking mechanism that is particularly simply constructed and therefore also easy to manufacture is advantageously created. The locking mechanism can be provided on the same slide as the tilting axis or on a second or further slide running in parallel.

According to one embodiment, a triggering means for releasing the locking mechanism is provided in a predetermined position of the running slide, in particular in a position of the running slide that is lowest in the vertical direction. The locking mechanism is provided and designed to be unlocked by the release means when released, so that the loading compartment can be tilted about the tilting axis oriented in the depth direction. The loading compartment is thus advantageous at a predetermined one Tilted position so that it transfers the goods, for example, to an output device of a vending machine. In particular, the loading compartment can be tilted freely, ie it tilts from the horizontal position into the tilted position solely due to its gravity. The triggering means can be designed, for example, mechanically as a pin or the like that unlocks the latching mechanism. Alternatively, the triggering means can also be designed as an electrical contact which effects an electrical 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 connection with a control device which activates an actuator on the locking mechanism in response to input of a predetermined signal from the Hall sensor to release the locking mechanism.

According to the invention, the tilt axis is arranged in the area of the floor of the loading compartment. This advantageously ensures that when the loading compartment is placed 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 does not increase due to tilting in the released state of the locking mechanism. This ensures that the loading compartment does not become jammed or blocked with other components when it is tilted. In particular when the loading compartment is tilted into a state retracted into an output device, it is thus ensured that the loading compartment and the output device do not interfere with one another, since the loading compartment does not pivot outward when tilted.

According to one embodiment, the tilt axis has a stop. Alternatively or additionally, the loading compartment can 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 the loading compartment can be returned to a straight or horizontal position by placing it on a surface that runs essentially in the transverse direction or horizontally. If the angle is greater than 90 °, the loading compartment would be tilted in the wrong direction when it is put on. At angles close to 90 °, comparatively high forces are necessary to move the loading compartment from the tilted position to a horizontal position. Therefore, sensible maximum tilt angles are a maximum of 85 °. To ensure that the goods are reliably transferred, the tilt angle should not be less than 50 °. A good compromise between resettability and reliability of the transfer is achieved in the range of 60 ° to 70 °. A reasonable range of the maximum tilt angle is therefore between 50 ° and 85 °, preferably between 60 ° and 70 °.

In an advantageous embodiment, the latching mechanism is provided such that it can be latched by returning the loading compartment into the straight position. To lock the locking mechanism, ie to fix the loading compartment in the straight, in particular horizontal, position, the loading compartment only needs to be brought into the straight position. The return of the loading compartment to the straight position is preferred by placing the tilted loading compartment on a surface, in particular a horizontal surface, and moving the carriage in the direction of the surface until the straight position of the loading compartment is reached again, causes. The loading compartment slides off the ground. For this purpose, on the floor of the loading compartment, in the area of an edge that forms the lowest point of the loading compartment in the tilted position, lubricants, for example a roller or a curved surface with reduced friction, can be provided. Advantageously, no additional return device is necessary to return the loading compartment to the straight position, which reduces the number of parts and the complexity of the lifting device. In this way, costs for the production, assembly and maintenance of an additional return device can advantageously be saved. Alternatively or additionally, a motor can also be provided for tilting and / or returning the loading compartment.

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

In one embodiment of a vending machine, the loading compartment of the lifting device for transferring the goods is provided such that it can be moved into the dispensing device. For this purpose, the output device is designed to be open or openable in an area facing the goods magazines, in particular on an upper side of the output device, so that the loading compartment can move through the opening into the output device. This has the particular advantage that the goods do not fall over the height of the dispensing device into the same, but can be gently deposited inside the dispensing device. In particular, the loading compartment moves to the bottom of the dispensing device to transfer the goods.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the triggering means are arranged in such a way that the latching mechanism is only released after the loading compartment has been moved into the output device. The triggering means preferably only release the latching mechanism when the loading compartment has reached a base of the output device. The goods are transferred to the output device by tilting the loading compartment when the loading compartment is moved out of the output device. During the transfer of the goods, 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 output device, essentially at the same height while the loading compartment is tilted. When tilting The loading compartment creates a gap or an opening through which the goods can slide into the dispensing device without moving significantly in the vertical direction. An undesirable dropping of the goods is advantageously effectively avoided. This ensures that the goods are not damaged, deteriorated or shaken too strongly. It is conceivable, but not necessary, for the bottom of the loading compartment to be placed completely on the bottom of the dispensing device before the latching mechanism is released, in order to minimize any residual height in between.

According to one embodiment, the output device has a movable safety device. This is designed in particular as a movable partitioning element, a so-called shutter. The security device is designed and provided, in a closed state, to secure the area of the goods magazines against unauthorized access, in particular against goods theft and / or vandalism, when goods are dispensed from the dispensing device. It is also provided to allow the loading compartment to be moved into the output device in an open state. In particular, the securing device is movable, preferably rotatable, provided for this purpose at an opening provided in the dispensing device, so that it closes the opening in the closed state and releases it in the open state for the loading compartment to be retracted.

According to an advantageous embodiment of a vending machine, the securing device is provided and designed on its side facing the goods magazines in the closed position as a substrate for placing the tilted loading compartment and returning the loading compartment to the straight position. For this purpose, the safety device is closed State a transverse, in particular horizontal, surface or slide on which the tilted loading compartment can slide. The return takes place accordingly by moving the carriage in the direction of the safety device, ie downwards in the vertical direction, the loading compartment slipping on the safety device and thus being guided into the straight, in particular horizontal, position. When the straight position is reached, the locking mechanism is automatically locked.

In a preferred embodiment of a method for operating a vending machine, the loading compartment moves into the dispensing device for the transfer of the goods. In particular, the loading compartment moves in so far that it touches a base of the output device. The loading compartment is then tilted when it is moved out of the output device. The loading compartment preferably tilts freely, i.e. by gravity. During the tilting when moving the loading compartment out of the dispensing device, the goods are transferred to the dispensing device by forming a gap or opening through which the goods then slide into the dispensing device. Advantageously, when the loading compartment is tilted, the goods are not significantly displaced in the vertical direction, so that the goods do not fall out of the loading compartment when they are handed over, but are instead gently deposited in the output 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 can be latched again by returning the loading compartment from a tilted position to a straight position. This is done in particular by placing the tilted loading compartment on an underground. The straight position corresponds in particular to a horizontal position of the loading compartment. A partitioning element of the dispensing device is preferably used as the substrate. The partitioning element is moved into a closed state after the loading compartment has been moved out of the output device. The loading compartment is then placed on the closed partitioning element to return it to the straight position.

The above configurations and developments can be combined with one another as desired, provided that it makes sense. In particular, all the features of the vending machine can also be transferred to the method for operating the vending machine and, conversely, all the features of the method for operating the vending machine can be transferred to the vending machine itself or its lifting device. Further possible configurations, 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.

CONTENTS OF THE DRAWING

Fig. 1

eine Liftvorrichtung gemäß einem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel;

Fig. 2

die Liftvorrichtung gemäß Fig. 1 mit verkipptem Ladefach;

Fig. 3

eine Detailansicht eines Ladefachs einer Liftvorrichtung gemäß Fig. 1 und 2 in einer geraden Stellung;

Fig. 4

eine Detailansicht des Ladefachs gemäß Fig. 3 in einer verkippten Stellung;

Fig. 5

eine Liftvorrichtung gemäß einem zweiten Ausführungsbeispiel;

Fig. 6

die Liftvorrichtung gemäß Fig. 5 mit verkipptem Ladefach;

Fig. 7

eine schematische Darstellung eines Warenautomaten in einer Ausgangsstellung;

Fig. 8

eine Seitenansicht eines Abschnitts des Warenautomaten gemäß Fig. 7;

Fig. 9

den Warenautomat gemäß Fig. 7 in einer Abhohlposition der Liftvorrichtung;

Fig. 10

den Warenautomat gemäß Fig. 9 mit einer in das Ladefach der Liftvorrichtung ausgegebenen Ware;

Fig. 11

den Warenautomat gemäß Fig. 10 in einer Übergabeposition der Liftvorrichtung;

Fig. 12

den Warenautomat gemäß Fig. 11 in der Übergabeposition mit gelöstem Rastmechanismus;

Fig. 13

den Warenautomat gemäß Fig. 12 beim Herausfahren der Liftvorrichtung aus der Ausgabevorrichtung zur Übergabe der Ware;

Fig. 14

den Warenautomat gemäß Fig. 13 in einer verkippten, aus der Ausgabevorrichtung herausgefahren Position der Liftvorrichtung;

Fig. 15

den Warenautomat gemäß Fig. 14 in einer Ausgabeposition der Ausgabevorrichtung mit geschlossenem Abschottungselement;

Fig. 16

den Warenautomat gemäß Fig. 15 nach dem Rückführen des Ladefachs aus der verkippten Stellung in eine gerade Stellung;

Fig. 17

den Warenautomat gemäß Fig. 16 mit geöffnetem Abschottungselement der Ausgabevorrichtung;

Fig. 18

den Warenautomat gemäß Fig. 17 mit in die Ausgangsstellung zurückgefahrener Liftvorrichtung;

Fig. 19A

eine perspektivische Ansicht einer Ausgabevorrichtung;

Fig. 19B

die Ausgabevorrichtung gemäß Fig. 19A mit in eine geschlossene Stellung verstelltem Abschottungselement;

Fig. 20

eine Detailansicht eines Antriebsmechanismus mit eingezeichneten verdeckten Kanten;

Fig. 21

den Antriebsmechanismus gemäß Fig. 20, wobei die Ausgabetrommel in eine Ausgabestellung rotiert ist;

Fig. 22

eine perspektivische Schnittansicht einer Ausgabevorrichtung;

Fig. 23

eine perspektivische Schnittansicht der Ausgabevorrichtung gemäß Fig. 22 mit in eine geschlossene Stellung verstelltem Abschottungselement;

Fig. 24

eine perspektivische Schnittansicht einer Ausgabetrommel;

Fig. 25

eine perspektivische Schnittansicht eines Abschottungselements.

The present invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments specified in the schematic figures of the drawing. It shows:

Fig. 1

a lift device according to a first embodiment;

Fig. 2

the lifting device according to Fig. 1 with tilted loading compartment;

Fig. 3

a detailed view of a loading compartment of a lifting device according to Fig. 1 and 2 in a straight position;

Fig. 4

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

Fig. 5

a lift device according to a second embodiment;

Fig. 6

the lifting device according to Fig. 5 with tilted loading compartment;

Fig. 7

a schematic representation of a vending machine in an initial position;

Fig. 8

a side view of a portion of the vending machine according to FIG Fig. 7 ;

Fig. 9

the vending machine according to Fig. 7 in a pick-up position of the lifting device;

Fig. 10

the vending machine according to Fig. 9 with goods dispensed into the loading compartment of the lifting device;

Fig. 11

the vending machine according to Fig. 10 in a transfer position of the lifting device;

Fig. 12

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

Fig. 13

the vending machine according to Fig. 12 when moving the lifting device out of the output device for transferring the goods;

Fig. 14

the vending machine according to Fig. 13 in a tilted position of the lifting device moved out of the dispensing device;

Fig. 15

the vending machine according to Fig. 14 in a dispensing position of the dispensing device with the partitioning element closed;

Fig. 16

the vending machine according to Fig. 15 after returning the loading compartment from the tilted position to a straight position;

Fig. 17

the vending machine according to Fig. 16 with the partitioning element of the output device open;

Fig. 18

the vending machine according to Fig. 17 with the lifting device retracted to the starting position;

Figure 19A

a perspective view of a dispenser;

Figure 19B

the output device according to Figure 19A with the partition element moved into a closed position;

Fig. 20

a detailed view of a drive mechanism with hidden edges drawn;

Fig. 21

the drive mechanism according to Fig. 20 wherein the dispensing drum is rotated to a dispensing position;

Fig. 22

a perspective sectional view of a dispenser;

Fig. 23

a perspective sectional view of the dispensing device according to FIG Fig. 22 with the partition element moved into a closed position;

Fig. 24

a perspective sectional view of an output drum;

Fig. 25

a perspective sectional view of a partitioning element.

The accompanying figures of the drawing are intended to provide a further understanding of the embodiments of the invention. They illustrate embodiments and, in conjunction with the description, serve to explain principles and concepts of the invention. Other embodiments and many of the advantages mentioned emerge with a view to the drawings. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale with one another.

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

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Fig. 1 shows a lifting device 1 according to a first embodiment. This is a lifting device 1 with a one-piece loading compartment 2.

The lifting device 1 also has two opposite running carriages 3 on which the loading compartment 2 is mounted. The running carriages 3 each run in a guide 13 designed as a vertical running rail, each of which is arranged on a transverse side of the lifting device 1. The loading compartment can thus be adjusted in a vertical height direction 4.

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

The running carriages 3 are driven in the same direction, for example in each case via a motor-operated cable pull, not shown in detail. Alternatively, a drive via a motor integrated in each case in the carriage 3 or via a linear drive integrated in each of the guides 13 and the carriage 3 is also possible.

Fig. 2 shows the lifting device 1 according to Fig. 1 with a tilted loading compartment 2. The tilted position of the loading compartment 2 shown can be assumed when the latching mechanism 7 is released so that a latching bolt 14 provided on the loading compartment 2 is released by the latching mechanism 7 and the loading compartment 2 can tilt freely about the tilt axis 6. The latching mechanism 7 is designed in such a way that returning the loading compartment 2 to the straight position causes the latching mechanism 7 to latch.

The tilting axis 6 is implemented by means of a hinge 15 provided in the area of a bottom 9 of the loading compartment 2, which allows the loading compartment 2 to tilt freely relative to the carriage 3 when the latching mechanism 7 is released.

Fig. 3 shows a detailed view of a loading compartment 2 of a lifting device 1 according to Fig. 1 and 2 in a straight position. In particular, the latching mechanism 7 is clearly recognizable therein, which comprises the said latching bolt 14 and a spring-preloaded latching projection 16. If the loading compartment 2 is moved along the vertical height direction 4, the latching mechanism 7 hits a triggering means 8 at a predetermined point at which the loading compartment 2 is to be tilted, in particular a lowest position or transfer position of the loading compartment. The triggering means is here schematically as a trigger pin 8 is shown. The release pin 8 is arranged in such a way that when the loading compartment 2 is moved into a corresponding position, it presses the latching projection 16 against its spring preload, without blocking the latching bolt 14 in the process. The locking bolt 14 is thus released when the release pin 8 presses the locking projection 16, so that the loading compartment 2 can be freely tilted about the tilting axis 6.

Fig. 4 shows a detailed view of the loading compartment 2 according to FIG Fig. 3 in a tilted position. The loading compartment 2 is guided in a guide groove 17 when it is tilted. The guide groove 17 has a stop 10 which limits or defines the maximum tilt angle about the tilt axis 6 to 70 °.

Furthermore, a roller 18 arranged in the area of the locking bolt 14 is provided, which is designed to roll on a subsurface 19 arranged below the loading compartment 2, here only shown schematically, when the two running carriages 3 move downward in the vertical height direction 4. By rolling the roller 18 on the ground 19, the loading compartment 2 is tilted back into the straight or horizontal position when the carriage 3 is moved further downwards in the vertical direction 4 about the tilting axis 6. When the straight position is reached, the locking bolt 14 engages on the locking projection 16, so that the locking mechanism 7 is locked again.

Fig. 5 shows a lifting device 1 according to a second embodiment. In contrast to the first embodiment according to Figures 1 to 4 this lifting device 1 has a divided loading compartment 2 with a first half 11 and a second half 12. The first half 11 is mounted tiltably on a first running slide 3a running in a first guide 13a designed as a running rail via a first tilting axis 6a running in the horizontal depth direction. The second half 12 is tiltably mounted on a second running slide 3b running in a second guide 13b designed as a running rail via a second tilting axis 6b running in the horizontal depth direction.

Each of the running carriages 3a, 3b has a latching mechanism 7a or 7b, which is not shown in detail here for better clarity. This is a function of the locking mechanism 7 of the first embodiment according to Figs. 1 to 4 essentially analogous locking mechanism, with the difference that the respective tilting axis 6a or 6b and the respective locking mechanism 7a or 7b are each provided here on the same running carriage 3a and 3b. Accordingly, triggering means 8a, 8b, also not shown, are provided on both sides of the lifting device 1 at a predetermined position at which the two halves 11, 12 of the loading compartment 2 are to be tilted.

In the straight position shown, the two halves 11, 12 each protrude in the horizontal transverse direction 5 from the respective carriage 3a, 3b.

Fig. 6 shows the lifting device 1 according to Fig. 5 with the loading compartment 2 tilted, the two halves 11, 12 of the loading compartment 2 are tilted into a tilted position about their respective associated tilting axis 6a and 6b. In this second exemplary embodiment with a divided loading compartment 2, too, a stop 10, not shown here, is provided for each of the halves 11, 12 of the loading compartment 2, analogously to the first exemplary embodiment, in order to limit the tilt angle to 70 °.

Furthermore, the two halves 11, 12 of the loading compartment 2 can be adjusted back into the straight position in a manner analogous to the loading compartment 2 according to the first embodiment, by moving the carriage 3a, 3b downwards on a surface (not shown here) below the loading compartment during an adjustment slide in the vertical height direction 4. For this purpose, rollers (not shown here) or alternatively sliding surfaces or the like can also be used in the area of the bottom 9a, 9b of the two halves 11, 12 may be provided.

Fig. 7 shows a schematic representation of a vending machine 20 in an initial position. The vending machine 20 is shown here schematically for better clarity without a housing and without a front panel or front pane. In addition, the guides or running rails 13a, 13b of the lifting device 1 are hidden.

The vending machine 20 has a multiplicity of goods magazines 21 which are arranged one above the other in the vertical height direction 4. Purely by way of example, only two goods magazines 21 arranged one above the other are shown, but any number of goods magazines 21 adapted to the size of the vending machine 20 and the height of the goods 23 can be arranged one above the other.

The vending machine 20 has a lifting device 1. This is here by way of example according to the second exemplary embodiment Figures 5 and 6th shown with a two-part loading compartment. However, it can also be a lifting device 1 according to the first exemplary embodiment of FIG Figures 1 to 4 trade with one-piece loading compartment. The following functional description or the method described below for operating the vending machine can thus be transferred analogously to a vending machine with a lifting device 1 according to the first exemplary embodiment.

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

The goods magazines 21 arranged one above the other each have a plurality of goods compartments 22 arranged next to one another. In the exemplary embodiment shown, there are, for example, eight goods compartments 22 arranged next to one another within a goods magazine 21. However, any plurality of goods compartments 22 adapted to the size of the vending machine 20 and the width of the goods 23 can be provided next to one another.

Each goods compartment 22 is provided with a conveying device for dispensing goods 23 into the loading compartment 2. This can be, for example, a spiral conveyor, a spiral drive or a linearly movable slide. In addition, a retaining spring is provided at a front end of each goods compartment 22, which prevents goods 23 from being unintentionally dispensed.

In Fig. 7 a drinks bottle is shown as an example of goods 23 located in a goods compartment 22. The goods 23 could, however, also be any other goods, for example a beverage can, a food or luxury item that is repackaged or packed in a bag, or even non-food goods such as cigarette boxes, bicycle tubes, or other products.

In the in Fig. 7 The starting position of the lifting device 1 shown here, or the loading compartment 2 thereof, is moved into the output device 24. Thus, from outside the machine, the view through a front pane of the vending machine 20 (not shown here) onto the goods 23 stored in the goods magazines 21 is free.

If goods 23 are requested from this starting position, for example on the basis of a user input from outside, the method for operating the vending machine 20 begins a user input, controls accordingly.

Fig. 8 FIG. 13 shows a side view of a portion of the vending machine 20 of FIG Fig. 7 . The section shown has a goods magazine 21, the lifting device 1 and the output device 24. The lifting device 1 or its loading compartment 2 is analogous to that in FIG Fig. 7 position shown in the dispensing device 24.

A securing device 26, a so-called shutter, in the form of a movable partitioning element 26 is provided on the output device 24, which in the illustrated open state allows the loading compartment 2 to be moved into the output device 24. As with the in Fig. 8 indicated by the arrows, a closed state of the partitioning element 26 can be assumed when the loading compartment 2 is moved out of the output device 24. The closed state is then achieved by a motor-driven rotation of the partitioning element 26 about an axis of rotation 27. In the closed state, not shown, the partitioning element 26 blocks the opening of the output device 24 to the goods magazines 21. Thus, the area of the goods magazines 21 is inaccessible from the output device 24. The mechanism of the partitioning element 26 is referred to in relation to Figures 19 to 26 detailed.

Fig. 9 FIG. 10 shows the vending machine 20 according to FIG Fig. 7 in a pick-up position of the lifting device 1. In this position, the loading compartment 2 is moved upward out of the output device 24 in the vertical height direction 4 and is arranged at the level of a goods magazine 21. In this position, the lifting device 1 is ready to receive goods 23 stored in a goods compartment 22 of the goods magazine 21 when they are output from the goods compartment 22.

Fig. 10 FIG. 10 shows the vending machine 20 according to FIG Fig. 9 with goods 23 issued into the loading compartment 2 of the lifting device 1. If the goods 23 are received in the loading compartment 2, as shown, the lifting device 1 can be moved in the vertical height direction 4 down to the output device 24 in order to transfer the goods 23 to the output device 24 to pass.

Fig. 11 FIG. 10 shows the vending machine 20 according to FIG Fig. 10 In a transfer position of the lifting device 1. In this transfer position, the lifting device 1 or its loading compartment 2 is moved in the vertical height direction 4 downwards into the output device 24. In this transfer position, the goods 23 can be transferred to the output device 24. For this purpose, the respective associated latching mechanism 7a, 7b, which is not shown in detail here for better clarity, is released on both halves 11, 12 of the loading compartment 2.

Fig. 12 FIG. 10 shows the vending machine 20 according to FIG Fig. 11 in the transfer position with the detent mechanism 7a, 7b released. When the latching mechanism 7a, 7b is released, the two halves 11, 12 of the loading compartment 2 can be freely tilted about their respective tilting axes 6a, 6b. Thus, the halves 11, 12 of the loading compartment 2 start a base 25 of the dispensing device 24. By moving the loading compartment 2 out of the output device 24 in the vertical direction 4 upwards out of the output device 24, the halves 11, 12 of the loading compartment 2 tilt further about their respective tilting axis 6a, 6b, whereby the goods can be transferred gently to the output device 24 .

Fig. 13 FIG. 10 shows the vending machine 20 according to FIG Fig. 12 when the lifting device 1 moves out of the output device 24 to transfer the goods 23. When the loading compartment 2 is moved out of the output device 24, the halves 11, 12 tilt further about their respective tilting axes 6a, 6b. The goods 23 slide off the halves 11, 12 of the loading compartment 2, so that the goods 23 are placed gently, ie without falling, on the floor 25 of the output device 24.

Fig. 14 FIG. 10 shows the vending machine 20 according to FIG Fig. 13 in a tilted position of the lifting device 1 moved out of the output device 24. In this position, the lifting device 1 is completely moved out of the output device 24. That is, the halves 11, 12 of the loading compartment 2 are completely moved out of the output device 24 together with their deepest edge in the tilted position, so that the output device 24 can now be closed by means of the partitioning element 26.

Fig. 15 FIG. 10 shows the vending machine 20 according to FIG Fig. 14 in a dispensing position of the dispensing device with the partitioning element 26 closed.

In this position, the halves 11 and 12 of the loading compartment 2 can be brought back to their straight or horizontal position again by the carriage 3a and 3b of the lifting device 1 are moved in the vertical height direction 4 downwards in the direction of the partitioning element 26. The tilted halves 11, 12 of the loading compartment 2 come into contact with the partitioning element 26. The partitioning element 26 thus serves as a substrate on which the loading compartment 2 or its two halves 11 and 12 slide and are tilted back into the straight position about their respective tilting axes 6a, 6b, as indicated by the arrows drawn.

Fig. 16 FIG. 10 shows the vending machine 20 according to FIG Fig. 15 after the loading compartment 2 has been returned from the tilted position to a straight position. The goods 23 have already been removed from the output device 24 so that it is now empty.

The loading compartment 2 has moved so far in the direction of the partitioning element 26 that its entire base 9 or that the two halves 11, 12 of the loading compartment 2 with their respective bases 9a, 9b rest completely on the partitioning element 26. In this straight position, the respective latching mechanism 7a, 7b assigned to the halves 11 and 12 of the loading compartment 2 latches. The loading compartment 2 is now releasably locked in the straight position.

Fig. 17 FIG. 10 shows the vending machine 20 according to FIG Fig. 16 with the partitioning element 26 of the dispensing device 24 open. The partitioning element 26 is returned to the FIG Fig. 8 proceed as shown in the open state. The lifting device 1 can now be moved back into the starting position in which the running carriages 3 a, 3 b are moved downwards in the vertical height direction 4.

Fig. 18 FIG. 10 shows the vending machine 20 according to FIG Fig. 17 with the lifting device moved back to the starting position 1. The starting position assumed corresponds to that in Fig. 7 shown original starting position. For this purpose, the loading compartment is moved down into the output device 24 by moving the carriage 3a, 3b in the vertical height direction 4.

The method for operating the vending machine 20 has now gone through a complete cycle. When a further true product 23 is requested, the method for operating the vending machine accordingly begins anew.

Figure 19A FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of a dispensing device 24. The dispensing device 24 has a rotatable dispensing drum 28 and an adjustable partitioning element 26. Furthermore, a drive device 31 is provided for adjusting the partitioning element 26 and for rotating the dispensing drum 28.

The output drum 28 can be rotated between a receiving position and an output position. The output drum 28 is shown in FIG Figure 19A the admission position. The output drum 28 is designed in the receiving position for receiving goods, not shown, and in the output position for outputting goods, not shown.

An opening 29 is provided on the dispensing drum 28 for receiving and dispensing goods. In the illustrated receiving position, the opening 29 is located in a receiving area 30 in which goods can be received. Thus, goods can be picked up from the loading compartment 2 of the lifting device is transferred to the output device 24.

The partitioning element 26 is provided and designed in an open position to release the receiving area 30 and in a closed position to block the receiving area 30 in an inaccessible manner. The partitioning element 26 is shown in FIG Figure 19A in the open position. The partitioning element 26 can be adjusted into the closed position by the drive device 31, whereupon with reference to FIG Figure 19B will be discussed in more detail.

To output the goods, the output drum 28 can be rotated into the output position by the drive device 31. However, this is only possible if the partitioning element 26 has previously been adjusted into the closed position.

Figure 19B shows the output device according to FIG Figure 19A with the partitioning element 26 displaced into a closed position. The receiving area 30 is inaccessibly blocked in the closed position of the partitioning element 26.

Both the partitioning element 26 and the output drum 28 are rotatably mounted independently of one another on a common axis of rotation 27. Accordingly, the partitioning element 26 can be adjusted by means of the drive device 31 by rotating about the axis of rotation 27.

The drive device 31 comprises a drive mechanism 32 which has a transmission element 33. The transmission element 33 is provided on the circumference of the transmission element 33 with a toothing, not shown Drive can be driven. For example, a pinion of the drive meshes with the teeth of the transmission element 33 for this purpose.

The output drum 28 cannot be opened manually; it is driven by a motor via a mechanical control cam by the same drive as the partitioning element 26 via the transmission element 33. In order to prevent jamming, a torque limitation and thus a limitation of the closing force is provided. For example, a torque limitation is implemented in the form of a slip clutch or in the form of a sensor-based detection of the torque and a corresponding control which switches off at a predetermined maximum torque. Furthermore, a control can be implemented in such a way that in the event that the drive does not reach its intended end position when rotating the dispensing drum or adjusting the partitioning element within a certain time, it is assumed that something has been jammed in the flap and the drive is therefore retracted becomes.

The transmission element 33 is designed to interact with a first contact section 34 provided on the partitioning element 26.

For this purpose, the translation element 33 has a first pin 35. For this purpose, the first contact section 34 of the partitioning element 26 has a first guide 36, in which the first pin 35 can intermittently engage depending on the position of the transmission element 33. By engaging the first pin 35 in the first guide 36, the partitioning element 26 can be adjusted between the closed and the open position. In the illustrated embodiment, the partitioning element 26 in an open position leads to FIG Figure 19A a clockwise rotation of the translation element 33 for an adjustment of the partitioning element 26 by means of a counterclockwise rotation about the axis of rotation 27.

The transmission element 33 also has a first cam 37. The first contact section 34 of the partitioning element 26 has a first running surface 38 designed to correspond to it and a second running face 39 likewise designed to correspond to it. By means of an engagement of the first running cam 37 in the first or second running surface 38, 39, a form fit can be produced in each case, which locks the partitioning element 26.

The first running surface 38 is arranged such that when the first running cam 37 engages in the first running surface 38, the partitioning element 26 is locked in the closed position. Such a situation is Figure 19B shown.

The second running surface 39 is arranged such that when the first running cam 37 engages in the second running surface 39, the partitioning element 26 is locked in the open position. Such a situation in Figure 19A shown.

The first pin 35 and the first running cam 37 are each on the same, in Figure 19B shown side of the translation element 33 is arranged. In addition to the first pin 35 and the first running cam 37, the transmission element 33 has a second pin 40 and a second running cam 41 on the opposite side. It also has the output drum 28 has a second contact section 42 covered by the partitioning element 26.

Fig. 20 shows a detailed view of a drive mechanism 32 with hidden edges drawn. The associated hidden sections or parts are described below.

The transmission element 33 is also designed to interact with the second contact section 42 provided on the output drum 28 and has the second pin 40 for this purpose. For this purpose, the second contact section 42 of the output drum 28 has a second guide 43, in which the second pin 40 can temporarily engage depending on the position of the transmission element 33. By engaging the second pin 40 in the second guide 43, the output drum 28 can be rotated between the receiving position and the output position.

In the illustrated embodiment, in the receiving position, the output drum 28 according to FIG Fig. 20 a further rotation of the translation element 33 in the clockwise direction to a rotation of the output drum 28 about the axis of rotation 27 in the counterclockwise direction.

The transmission element 8 also has a second cam 41. The second contact section 42 of the output drum 28 furthermore has a third running surface 44 configured to correspond to it and a fourth running surface 45 likewise configured to correspond to it. By engaging the second running cam 41 in the third or fourth running surface 44, 45, a form fit can be produced in each case, which locks the output drum 28.

The third running surface 44 is arranged such that when the second running cam 41 engages in the third running surface 44, the dispensing drum 28 is locked in the receiving position. Such a situation is in Fig. 20 shown.

The fourth running surface 45 is arranged such that when the second running cam 41 engages in the fourth running surface 45, the dispensing drum 28 is locked in the dispensing position. Such a situation is in the one described below Fig. 21 shown.

Fig. 21 shows the drive mechanism according to FIG Fig. 20 , wherein the output drum is rotated to an output position.

In this situation, the second running cam 41, which is covered here, engages in the fourth running surface 45, which is covered here, to lock the dispensing drum 28 in the dispensing position.

In the illustrated output position of the output drum 28, the opening 29 is also oriented towards an externally accessible side which was previously blocked by the output drum 28 in the receiving position. Thus, a product (not shown) located in the output drum 28 can now be removed from the outside through the opening 29 from the output drum 28.

At the same time, the partitioning element 26 is still locked by engagement of the first running cam 37 in the first running surface 38. For this purpose, the first running cam 37 has a concentric to the transmission element 33 Circular shape, with a first recess 46 only being provided in the area of the first pin 35, which is used to lead through the first contact section 34 of the partitioning element 26. Thus, the transmission element 33 always engages in the first contact section 34 of the partitioning element 26, either by means of the first cam 37 or by means of the first pin 35.

The second running cam 41 is shaped analogously to the first running cam 37, and with an angular offset relative to the first running cam 37 is also arranged concentrically on the transmission element 33 and is provided with a second recess 47, as in FIG Fig. 20 shown. Accordingly, the second pin 40 is also arranged with the same angular offset from the first pin 35. The transmission element 33 therefore always engages in the second contact section 42 of the output drum 28, either by means of the second running cam 42 or by means of the second pin 40.

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

Fig. 22 FIG. 11 shows a perspective sectional view of a dispensing device 24.

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

Furthermore, the dispensing drum 28 has a bottom 25 arranged opposite the opening 29 between the front panel 48 and the rear wall 49. In addition, the output drum 28 has a lateral wall 50 in which the axis of rotation 27 is embedded.

The partitioning element 26 is in the in Fig. 4 open position shown behind the rear wall 49 adjusted. For this purpose, the partitioning element 26 has a rounded sheet metal section 51, the rounding of the sheet metal section 51 corresponding to the rounding of the rear wall 49. In particular, the respective roundings of the rear wall 49 and of the sheet metal section 51 are formed with the axis of rotation 27 as the center.

Fig. 23 FIG. 13 shows a perspective sectional view of the dispensing device according to FIG Fig. 22 with partitioning element 26 displaced into a closed position. The dispensing drum 28 is still in the receiving position.

The receiving area 30 is accordingly blocked inaccessibly by the partitioning element 26. Furthermore, the partitioning element 26 in the closed position complements the shape of the dispensing drum 28 in the receiving position such that the opening 29 is completely closed. A completely closed position of the dispensing device 24 is thus assumed.

In this closed position of the partitioning element, a loading compartment 2, for example as in FIG Fig. 4 shown by means of a roller 18, roll on the rounded sheet metal section 51 of the closed partitioning element 24, which then serves as a substrate 19 arranged below the loading compartment 2.

If the output drum 28 now rotates into the output position, there is accessibility from the outside in the area which was previously closed by the front panel 48. The output device 24 thus also functions as a goods lock, which at no time allows a simultaneous opening to the receiving area 30 and to the outside. Instead, the dispensing drum only opens outwards by rotation into the dispensing position when the partitioning element 26 is completely closed and locked. After the dispensing, the partitioning element 26 only opens by being moved into the open position when the dispensing drum 28 is completely closed, i. H. is rotated and locked in the recording position.

When the output drum 28 is closed in the receiving position and the partitioning element 26 is open, the output drum 28 cannot be opened manually. When the dispensing drum 28 is open in the dispensing position, the partitioning element 26 cannot be opened manually.

Fig. 24 FIG. 13 shows a perspective sectional view of a dispensing drum 28. The dispensing drum 28 has a configuration as it is in relation to FIG Fig. 22 is described.

Fig. 25 shows a perspective sectional view of a partitioning element 5.

In addition to that relating to Fig. 22 Formation of the rounded sheet metal section 51 already described, a lateral section 52 of the partitioning element 26 can also be seen here. Furthermore, a first contact section 34 of the partitioning element 26 can be seen in which the axis of rotation 27 is embedded. The lateral section 52 connects the rounded sheet metal section 51 to the first contact section 34.

Although the present invention has been fully described above on the basis of preferred exemplary embodiments, it is not restricted thereto, but rather can be modified in a wide variety of ways.

For example, instead of a lifting device with a divided loading compartment, a lifting device with a one-piece loading compartment can also be used in a vending machine.

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

An input or operating device coupled to the control device can also be provided for a user to request goods.

List of reference symbols

1

Lifting device

2

Loading compartment

3, 3a, 3b

Running carriage

4th

Height direction

5

Transverse direction

6, 6a, 6b

Tilt axis

7, 7a, 7b

Locking mechanism

8th

Release means or release pin

9, 9a, 9b

ground

10

attack

11

first half

12th

second half

13, 13a, 13b

Guide or running rail

14th

Locking latch

15th

hinge

16

Locking projection

17th

Guide groove

18th

role

19th

Underground

20th

Vending machine

21st

Goods magazine

22nd

Goods compartment

23

Would

24

Dispenser

25th

ground

26th

Securing device or partitioning element

27

Axis of rotation

28

Output drum

29

opening

30th

Recording area

31

Drive device

32

Drive mechanism

33

Translation element

34

first contact section

35

first tenon

36

first tour

37

first running cam

38

first tread

39

second tread

40

second tenon

41

second tour

42

second contact section

43

second tour

44

third tread

45

fourth tread

46

first recess

47

second recess

48

Front panel

49

Back wall

50

lateral wall

51

rounded sheet metal section

52

lateral section

Claims (14)

1. Lift device (1) for a product machine,
   comprising a loading compartment (2) for receiving products dispensed from a product magazine,
   comprising at least one running slide (3; 3a, 3b) for displacing the loading compartment (2) in a height direction (4), the loading compartment (2), in a straight position, extending along a transverse direction (5) so as to protrude from the running slide (3; 3a, 3b), so as to be able to receive products from product compartments arranged side by side in a product magazine, the loading compartment (2) being mounted on the running slide (3; 3a, 3b) so as to be tiltable into a tilted position about a tilt axle (6; 6a, 6b) orientated in a depth direction, the tilt axle (6; 6a, 6b) being arranged in the region of a base (9) of the loading compartment (2).
2. Lift device according to claim 1,
   characterised
   in that a latch mechanism (7; 7a, 7b) for releasably latching the loading compartment (2) in the straight position is provided on the running slide (3; 3a, 3b) and/or on a further running slide (3; 3a, 3b).
3. Lift device according to claim 2,
   characterised
   in that in a predetermined position of the running slide (3; 3a, 3b), in particular a lowest position of the running slide (3; 3a, 3b) in a height direction, a trigger means (8) for releasing the latch mechanism (7; 7a, 7b) is provided, the latch mechanism (7; 7a, 7b) being provided and formed to be unlocked when released by the trigger means (8), in such a way that the loading compartment (2) is tiltable, in particular freely tiltable, into the tilted position about the tilt axle (6; 6a, 6b) orientated in the depth direction.
4. Lift device according to any of the preceding claims,
   characterised
   in that the tilt axle (6; 6a, 6b) and/or the loading compartment (2) have a stop (10) which limits the tilting of the loading compartment (2) to a maximum tilt angle relative to the transverse direction (5), the maximum tilt angle being less than 90°, in particular being in a range between 50° and 85°, preferably between 60°and 70°.
5. Lift device according to any of claims 2 to 4,
   characterised
   in that the latch mechanism (7; 7a, 7b) is provided so as to be latchable by returning the loading compartment (2) into the straight position, in particular as the tilted loading compartment (2) is placed on a subsurface (19) and the running slide (3; 3a, 3b) is displaced in the direction of the subsurface (19) until the straight position of the loading compartment (2) is reached again.
6. Lift device according to any of the preceding claims,
   characterised
   in that a running slide (3; 3a, 3b) is provided on each of the transverse ends of the loading compartment (2), the loading compartment (2) being formed single-piece or being formed divided into a first and a second half (11, 12), and the first half (11) thereof being mounted on a first running slide (3a) so as to be tiltable about a tilt axle (6a) orientated in a depth direction, and the second half (12) thereof being mounted on a second running slide (3b) so as to be tiltable about a second tilt axle (6b) orientated in a depth direction.
7. Product machine (2), in particular vending machine, comprising a plurality of product magazines (21) arranged above one another, each product magazine (21) having a plurality of product compartments (22) arranged side by side in a transverse direction (5) for receiving products (23), comprising a lift device (1) according to any of the preceding claims,
   comprising a dispensing device (24) for dispensing a product from the product machine (20), the lift device (1) being provided to receive products (23) dispensed from the product compartments (21), to transport them to the dispensing device (24) and to hand them over into the dispensing device (24) by tilting the loading compartment (2).
8. Product machine according to claim 7,
   characterised
   in that the loading compartment (2) of the lift device (1) is provided so as to be retractable for handing over the product (23) into the dispensing device (24).
9. Product machine according to claim 8,
   characterised
   in that the trigger means (8) are arranged in such a way that the latch mechanism (7; 7a, 7b) is only released after the loading compartment (2) is retracted into the dispensing device (24), in particular when the loading compartment (2) has arrived on a base (25) of the dispensing device (24), in such a way that the handover of the product to the dispensing device (24) takes place by tilting the loading compartment (2) as the loading compartment (2) is extended from the dispensing device (24).
10. Product machine according to any of preceding claims 7 to 9,
    characterised
    in that the dispensing device (24) has a movable security device (26), in particular a displaceable partition element (26), which is configured and provided to secure, in a closed state, the region of the product magazines (21) against unauthorised access as a product (23) is dispensed from the dispensing device (24) and to allow, in an open state, entry of the loading compartment (2) into the dispensing device (24) .
11. Product machine according to claim 10,
    characterised
    in that the security device (26) is provided and configured, in the closed position, at the side thereof facing the product magazines (21), as a subsurface for placing the tilted loading compartment (2) on and returning the loading compartment (2) into the straight position.
12. Method for operating a product machine, in particular a product machine (20) according to any of preceding claims 7 to 11, comprising the steps of:

    dispensing a product (23) from a product compartment (22) of a product magazine (21), which has a plurality of product compartments (22) arranged side by side in a transverse direction (5), into a loading compartment (2) of a lift device (1) ;

    displacing the loading compartment (2) in a height direction (4) with respect to a dispensing device (24);

    handing the product (23) over from the loading compartment (2) to the dispensing device (24) by tilting the loading compartment (2) about a tilt axle (6; 6a, 6b) orientated in a depth direction, the tilt axle (6; 6a, 6b) being arranged in the region of a base (9) of the loading compartment (2).
13. Method according to claim 12,
    characterised
    in that the loading compartment (2) retracts into the dispensing device (24) for the handover of the product (23), and the loading compartment (2) is tilted, in particular by free tilting, as it is extended out of the dispensing device (24) .
14. Method according to either claim 12 or claim 13,
    characterised
    in that to tilt the loading compartment (2) a latch mechanism (7; 7a, 7b) is released, which can be latched again by returning the loading compartment (2) from a tilted position into a straight position, in particular by placing the tilted loading compartment (2) on a subsurface, preferably on a partition element (26) of the dispensing device (24).

Images