GB2414473A - Automatic vending machine - Google Patents

Abstract

An automatic vending machine and method for vending and/or renting objects is disclosed. The machine 1 comprises a storage arrangement 30 consisting of arrays of cells 31, whereby an article may be stored in each cell; a monitoring system comprising an article identifying means 32A configured to identify article related data in each of the cells; an article delivery means 34 comprising an article holder 34A for receiving a predefined article removed from the respective cell and allowing delivery of the removed article to a customer; and a control means 36 for selectively operating the article identifying means 32A and the article delivery means 34, wherein the control means 36 further records data indicative of articles currently stored in the storage arrangement 30 and articles removed from the storage arrangement 30. The monitoring system 32 may also include a mapping means 32B arranged to identify cells dimensions and relative locations.

Description

AUTOMATIC VENDING MACHINE AND METHOD

It ILLD OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to an automatic machine and method for vending and/or renting objects.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

S Automatic vending machines are widely used in public places and offer a variety of merchandise such as hot and cold drinks, food, video cassettes/disks, etc. The most commonly used type of a vending machine is that utilizing a rotating carousel (storage means) U.S. Patent No. 4,942, 954 discloses a vending machine having a carousel containing several rotatable trays stacked one above another. The trays carry and present for vending selected items, such as food and merchandise. The carousel is contained in a housing or canister and is part of an integrated assembly with a coin container. The carousel is filled at a central depot rather than at the site where the machine is installed for use by customers. The customer locations have the cabinet of the machine. Fixed in the cabinet is a drive mechanism for the carousel and locating and guide members which enable integrated assemblies to be removed from the cabinet and fresh assemblies, with the carousel trays loaded at the central depot, to be installed in place of the removed assemblies. The coin box when empty is equipped with a mechanism wl1ich is set to enable coins to drop into the container and is automatically reset so as to close the opening when the assembly is removed from the cabinet. The important advantage of not requiring vending machine servicing personnel for being responsible for stocking l l l i / . ' ' 1 or handling of moneys is obtained with this vending machine. However, this technique suffers from several drawbacks: The selling process is inefficient, since no recharge takes place during the 'living cycle' of a carousel (from installation till removing), the types and amounts of articles in a carousel decline S in time thus resulting in reduced purchasing rate. In addition, an operator is needed to continuously check the statics of a carousel in order to decide as to whether to replace it.

U.S. Patent No. S,020,958 discloses an article handling method and system for an article handing machine operable by users having identification (ID) cards bearing user identifying codes for vending and/or receiving articles, which bear the article identifying codes and are stored within storage bins in the machine. The article handling system includes an article transport and a user and article code reading arrangement. The article transport is selectively operable in a vending mode to transport user-selected articles from their storage bins to a position accessible to machine users for removal of the selected articles from the later return of the articles to the machine and in a return mode to transport returned articles from the user accessible position to their storage bins. The user and article code reading arrangement embodies a single common code reader for reading both the user code on user ID cards inserted into the machine and the article codes on articles vended to and rctu.i.cd by machine users. The disclosed article handling machine is a vending machine which vends user-selected magnetic tape cassettes, such as video cassettes, in response to insertion of a proper user ID card and rental fee into the machine and embodies a novel telephone cassette reservation feahrc, cassette/storage bin association feature, and rental fee credit feature for prompt cassette return.

U.S. Patent Application No. 2003/0034353 discloses automated parts dispensing system and method including a dispensing device in communication with a parts vending system. The dispensing device is one of the commonly known machines for dispensing parts, tools, foods, novelty items and other such items which generally use a helical coil or robotic delivery system. The particular f l l

I

device disclosed is a carrousel or drum type device. The dispensing device is modified to detect the rotation and position of the drum element and to detect the delivery of parts. The pasts vending system controls and monitors the dispensing device or devices to assure proper operation and authorization of users. The user is aided in the requesting for parts by the correlating of vehicle identification number and identified operations or part type. This relieves the user of the task of identifying a particular configuration of part where vehicle models may have variations by vehicle identification numbers, etc. The parts vending system may also be in communication with a dealer management system to account for inventory, billing, status and other management functions, as well as, a bulk fluid management system.

U.S. Patent Application No. 2003/()062378 descries a dispensing mechanism for a vending machine for permitting generally flat faced product to be vended one at a time, said mechanism comprising an upright storage chute in which identical shaped and si;<ecl product call be stachcd one on top of the other so the flat face of said generally flat faced product lies generally transversely of vertical, said storage chute being defined by a first generally upright extending wall and a spaced and opposed second generally upright extended wall, the spacing being sufficient to allow the product to move in a generally vertical path in said chute by gravity from the top to the bottom of the chute, there being an inclined product discharge ramp extending downwardly across said chute towards a product discharge opening in said second wall, there being a first tongue and a vertically lower spaced second tongue mounted to advance and retreat into said path through said second wall at the bottom of the stack, a lowermost product being supported in said chute by a support surface in said path opposite where said first tongue extends through said second wall and by said first tongue when said first tongue is advanced into said path through said second wall, the weight of all products being carried by said support surface and said first tongue, there being movement means to permit said second tongue to retreat when said first tongue is advanced, and to permit said second tongue to be . 1 1 l advanced when said first tongue is retreated, so said second tongue will catch a lowermost edge of the lowermost product as it falls past said first tongue when said first tongue is retreated and so said lowermost product will then be supported in said chute by said support surface and by said second tongue, the vertical spacing of said first tongue and said second tongue being such that when the lowermost product is caught by the second tongue, the next highermost product in the stack will be positioned so that the first tongue can be advanced under that product so that that product and all products thereabove will be carried by said upper part of said inclined ramp and said first tongue, and so as said second tongue is retreated the product caught on said second tongue will fall by gravity onto said inclined ramp and pass through said discharge opening and be vended.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

There is a need in the art to improve vending of items by providing a novel vending machine which can automatically control and monitor its stocks and deliveries.

The main idea of the present invention is associated with the following.

Commonly used vending machines are incapable of automatically monitoring each of its compartments (cabinet cells) and of dentilymg which product is stored in the compartment. As a result the conventional vending machine is designed such that each compartment is intended for storage of a specific item.

The present invention solves this problem by providing a vending machine configured and operated for independently and automatically identifying each of its cabinet cells, as well as any article stored in it or delivered to it.

Thus, according to one broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided an automatic vending machine comprising: (a) a cells' arrangement having an arrays of cells, each for storing an article therein, -s- (b) a monitoring system comprising an article identifer assembly configured and operable for identifying an article-related data in each of the cells; (c) an article delivering assembly comprising an article holder for receiving a predestined article removed from the respective cell and allowing delivery of the removed article to a customer; and (d) a control system connectable to the article identifier assembly and to the article delivery assembly for selectively operating these assemblies and recording data indicative of articles currently stored in the cells' arrangement and of article removed from the cells' arrangement.

The monitoring system preferably also comprises a mapping assembly for mapping the cells' arrangement. The mapping assembly includes determination of a pattern of the cells. The pattern is indicative of the cells' dimensions and their spatial distribution within the cells arrangement. The mapping assembly may be configured and operable to determine borders of the cells in the cells' ar r angement.

The article-related data may include art identification code provided on the article, thereby enabling identifying the article type according to data stored in the control system. Alternatively or additionally, the article-related data includes data indicative of an image of the article. The mapping assembly may be conk gured and operable for imaging each of the cells, thus enabling to identify a type of the article located in the cell.

The machine comprises a drive assembly operable by the control system to provide a relative displacement between the article identifier assembly and the cells' arrangewcnt, thereby enabling any appropriate positioning of the article identifier assembly relative to the cells' arrangement. The drive assembly may be associated with the article identifier assembly for moving it with respect to the cells' arrangement, and/or with the cells' arrangement for moving it with respect to the article identifier assembly. The relative displacement may include a relative rotation, and/or a back and forward movement of the article identifier assembly with respect to the cells arrangement along at least one axis.

The array of cells may one-, two-, or three-dimensional array. The cells' arrangement may be configured as a frame with a polygonal outer surface, or a substantially circular outer surface or apiary like outer surface. The cells arrangement may be configured to allow for adjusting dimensions of at least some of the cells.

The article identifier assembly includes a data reading unit configured for collecting radiation originating from a selected region and generating data indicative thereof. The data reading unit may include a camera for acquiring an image of the selected region; a radiation source for irradiating the selected region and a detector for collecting a radiation response of said region. The data reading unit may be configured for reading at least one of the following: an optical barcode, a magnetic tag, and an RF tag. (such as Wi-Fi tag,WUB tag, or any other protocol capable of recognizing the product identification code).

The article-related data may be indicative of presence or absence of any article in the cell. In this case, each of the cells is preferably provided on its inner surface with a marker detectable when no article is present in the cell. The marker may be configured for reflecting predetermined radiation, in which case the article identifier assembly includes a radiation source operable to generate this predetermined radiation.

The article identifier assembly preferably includes a lift unit carrying the data reading unit and mounted on a guide assembly for back and forward movement along at least: one axis defined by the guide assembly.

The article delivery assembly comprises an article removing assembly.

The latter may be mounted on the holder and configured for capturing the article in the cell and transferring it to said holder (for example by gripping the article), or may be configured for pushing the article *om the cell towards the holder.

The article removing assembly may comprises an actuator located at a rear side of the cell and operable to push the article in this cell towards a holder located at a front side of the cell or at the bottom of the cells' arrangement accessible by a customer (e.g., just pushing the article to drop it down where it is received by a holder).

The article removing assembly preferably includes a lift unit mounted on a guide assembly and driven for a back and forward movement along at least one axis defined by the guide assembly with respect to the cells arrangement. The actuator may include an array of pushing members, each associated with a corresponding one of the cells. Thc actuator may include a single pushing member, in which case the machine includes a drive mechanism configured to provide a relative displacement between the pushing member and the cells arrangement. The pushing member is preferably driven for a back and forward movement with respect to the cells arrangement along at least one axis. This may be implemented by supporting the pushing member on a second lift unit mounted on a guide assembly for the movement along the at least one axis defined by the guide assembly. Thc machine may utilize one actuator and one data reading unit for each tray.

Thc article delivery assembly preferably comprises a data reading unit configured for collecting radiation originating frown a selected region and generating data indicative thereof, to thereby enable identifying the removed article prior to being delivered to a customer. This data reading unit may be part of the article identifier assembly. The data reading unit is preferably supported on a lift unit mounted on a guide assembly for a back and forward movement along at least one axis defined by the guide assembly with respect to the cells arrangement.

The control system is preferably connectable to a network. The control system may have a local controller connected to and operating the article identifier assembly and the article delivery assembly, wherein the local controller is connectable to a central controller via a network to be managed by the central controller.

Preferably, the machine also includes a recycling or return assembly configured for receiving an article from outside the machine. Thc recycling or return assembly comprises an article identifier assembly for identifying the article being input from the outside the machine and generating data indicative thereof to the control system, to thereby enabling processing of this data and determining whether the article being input is allowed to be collected or not. The article identifier assembly includes a data reading unit, which may be an imaging unit capable of generating the data indicative of the image of the article being input, and/or may be configured for detennining article-related enabling identification of the article. This may be implemented by reading an identification code provided on the article (for example, optical barcode or REID) lO and/or determining any other parameter(s) of the article, such as weight, size, shape, material colors, or any other parameter allowing for the article authentication.

The recycling (or retum) assembly may be implemented by using a loading/unloading member configured for holding an article being input to allow its identification, and then, depending on the identification results, displacing the article towards a collection channel or towards a return channel. The article holding member is configured and operable by the control system so as to be shiftable between different positions with respect to the inside of the machine, such that in its one position the member supports the article in a manner to allow 2() its identification by a data reading assembly, and in its other positions the member allows loading of the article being input so as to be collected in the machine, and unloading of the article to be pushed towards the outside of the machine to a customer or collected in a recycle chamber, as the case may be.

According to another broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for operating a machine for vending articles, the method comprising: - automatically identifying an arrangement of articles currently stored in the machine and recording data indicative of types of the articles and their positions in the machine, thereby enabling arbitrary positioning of the articles within the machine; - in response to a customer's request, operating delivery of the selected article from the machine to the customer and recording data indicative of delivered articles.

According to yet another broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for managing operation of a plurality of vending machines relating to a common chain, said managing comprising: providing each of the vending machines with a local controller and connecting all the local controllers to a central controller via a network.

The management may include management of the "kiosk" function of the vending machine. This may be implemented by connecting the vending machine to one or many kiosk arrangements and controlling the kiosk arrangement(s)' operation by the local eonb-oller of said vending machine that communicates with a central chain controller via a network.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a ] 5 monitoring system for use in a vending machine, the system comprising: an article identifier assembly configured and operable for identifying article-related data with respect of each of the articles to be vended by the vending machine; - a drive assembly configured and operated to provide a relative displacement between the article identifier assembly and a cells arrangement of the vending machine where the articles are stored in the cells, respectively; - a control system operating said drive assembly and the article identifier assembly to successively align the article identifier assembly with each of the cells and determine the article-related data for each of the cells.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for purchasing articles in the cyberspace to be delivered by automatic vending machine, the method comprising: - providing a Website operated by a central control system via a network to offer articles for vending; l - 1 O - in response to a customer's selection of an article to be vended in a specific vending machine, said central control system operating to instruct said vending machine to keep said article for the customer, thereby enabling the customer to arrive at the location of said vending machine and receive said article.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for providing services by automatic vending machine, the method comprising: providing at least one automatic vending machine controlled by a central control system; and operating, by said central control system, services to be provided to a customer via said automatic vending machine.

BRIEF DESCRlPIION OF THE, DRAWINGS In order to understand the invention and to see how it may be carried out in practice, prefcrrcd embodiments will now ho described, by way of non limiting examples only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 is a schematic illustration of a vending machine according to the invention from the customer's point of view; Fig. 2A schematically illustrates the construction of the vending machine of the present invention; Fig. 2B exemplifies the configuration of an article removing assembly that can be used in the system of the present invention; Fig. 3 exemplifies a cells' arrangement suitable to be used in the vending machine of the present invention; Figs. 4A-4B exemplify law the cells of the cells arrangement can be resided; Figs. 5A and 5B schematically illustrate two examples, respectively, of an article recycling assembly suitable to be used in the vending machine of the present invention; -I 1 Fig. 6 exemplifies a centralized vending machines' system of the present invention; Fig. 7 is a flow diagram of an example of a method according to the invention for operating a vending process.

DETAILED DESCRIPI ION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to Fig. l there is schematically illustrated a vending machine 1 according to the invention. The machine comprises a housing 2 where articles are located (not shown here), a user (customer) interface unit including a display 3 for presenting any relevant information to a customer. l he display may be of any l0 known design, for example equipped with a touch screen function, etc. The displayed information is any information relevant to a customer in order to be served by machine 1. This may include articles-related data, namely, a list of articles available in the machine, description of such articles, images of the articles available in the machine, prices, etc. The user interface unit may typically l 5 provide a customer with several options regarding receiving the article, paying for the article, and possible also recycling articles or parts thereof. Considering for example such articles as printing inks (inkjet, ribbons, tuners), the empty ink case, after being used, may be recycled. The recycled case may and may not be that of the previously purchased ink from the same machine. A customer, having decided what he is interested in, selects and touches the appropriate point on the screen 2, and the selected action is conducted by machine l. Generally, the user interface unit is configured to allow a customer to operate and communicate with machine 1 or its centralized management to which a local controller (not shown) of the machine is connected via a network. The machine 1 may include a voice system (VOIP system) or a phone system by which such communication can be made, for example to enable the customer to communicate with tle centralized management in order to get some assistance.

Further typically provided in the housing is a payment-managing arrangement 4 that includes a slot configured for inserting either the customer related card, which may be a typical credit card, or any other magnetic card, smart card, or RF card (e.g., a specific card provided for customers frequently using the machine services), and/or cash, and/or coins, etc.. The same arrangement 4 or an additional similar arrangement may be used for inserting an identification card of a machine operator for the machine maintenance purposes.

Articles are delivered through a dispensing port 5 associated with an article delivery assembly. Such port is an opening or a door through which articles are delivered from the machine 1. Preferably, the dispensing port 5 is an adjustable opening which can be enlarged or reduced according to the operator's lO requirements for allowing delivery of one or many articles from the machine.

Preferably, the machine also includes an article recycling or return assembly 6, as will be described below.

According to the invention, a vending machine is configured for automatically selling and delivering articles stored in the machine. The machine could also collect articles delivered by customers (not shown in the figure). Thus, the automatic vending machine of the present invention is capable of independently managing its articles (storage, supply, quantities, prices, etc.). It should be noted, although not specifically shown, that depending on the type of articles stored in the vended machine, the machine may include additional appropriate means, such as refrigerating and/or heating means for food, drinks or drugs, air drier for hydroscopic articles, etc. Reference is now made to Fig. 2A schematically illustrating the construction and operation of the automatic vending machine 1 according to the invention. Machine 1 includes such main constructional parts as a cells arrangement 30 for storing articles that are to be distributed and collected; a monitoring system 32 comprising at least an article identifier assembly 32A; and an article delivering assembly 34 which delivers articles from the machine to a customer. All these assemblies are operated by a control system 36. The control system may be a local computer system connected to the machine, or a remote computer system connected to the machine via a network, or the so-called l l 1 1; "distributed" control system formed by a local computer and a central computer connectable to each other via a network.

The cells' arrangement 30 is an array of cells 31, each for storing an article therein. The article identifier assembly 32A is configured and operable for determining an article-re]ated data to thereby identify the articles in each of the cells. Preferably, the monitoring system 32 also includes a mapping assembly 32B configured for identifying the cells' dimensions and relative locations, thus enabling recording the cells' arrangement map prior to loading the machine with the articles. The article delivering assembly 34 includes an article holder 34A configured for receiving a predefined article removed from the respective cell and allowing delivery of the removed article to a customer. This may be a container having a slot (opening) or a door 34B selectively actuated by a drive 34C (operated by the control system) for outputting the article thercthrough. The control system 36 selectively operates these assemblies and records data indicative of the articles currently stored in the cells' arrangement and of the articles removed from the cells' arrangement.

The cells' arrangement 30 is any appropriate storage means, preferably an adjustable storage. It can be configured as a carousel-like, a box-like volume, an apiary-like arrangement, etc. The carousel-like configuration is preferred for the purposes of reducing the footprint of the system. The cells' arrangement 3() Is formed by a plurality of cells 31 that may and may not be of the same size. In the present example, the cells' arrangement 30 is designed as a closed tubular-like frame (with a substantially circular outer surface), but is should be understood that the outer surface of the closed frame may be a polygon, and an open frame may be used as well. The cells 3t arc arranged in an array, which is a threc dimensional array in the present cxamplc, but is should be understood that the frame may be designed to form a one- or twodimensional array arrangement of cells. Thus, in the present example, the cells 31 are arranged in several circular arrays, one above the other. Generally, the cells 31 are arranged in multiple-cell shelves 39A with dividers 39B between each two adjacent cells 31. The cells' arrangement 30 may be configured to allow for appropriately adjusting the cells' dimensions. To this end, the shelves 39A as well as dividers 39B are removably mounted, as will be described below.

The monitoring system 32 is accommodated adjacent to the cells' arrangement 30 and includes the article identifier assembly 32A and preferably also the cells' mapping assembly 32B as shown in the figure in dashed lines. The machine has an appropriate drive mechanism operable to provide a relative displacement between the cells arrangement 30 and the monitoring system 32. In the present example, this is Implemented by a relative rotation between the cells arrangement and the monitoring system and a relative back and forward movement of the relevant parts of the monitoring system with respect to the cells arrangement along at least one axis. The relative rotation may generally be implemented by rotating the monitoring system with respect to the frame 30 and/or rotating the relevant parts of the monitoring system with respect to the l5 frame. As shown in the figure, a drive assembly 40 may be associated with a central shaft 41 of the frame assembly 30, and/or with guiding assemblies 42A and 42B of the monitoring system.

In the prcscrt example, the article identifier assembly 32A and mapping assembly 32B are shown as using separate units 44A and 44B associated witl corresponding guide assemblies 42A and 42B, respectively. Is should however be noted that units 44A and 44B may be incorporated within acommon assembly.

Additionally, in the present example, the article identifier assembly 32A is incorporated within the article delivery assembly 34, but it should be understood that it may be a stand alone assembly. For example, assembly 32B may constitute the monitoring system including the article identifier assembly and possibly also the mapping assembly.

The article identifier assembly 32A is configured for determining the article-related data for each article in the cells' arrangement 30. This is implemented by providing an appropriately designed data reading unit 42A supported on a lift unit 34A (which in the present example is the article holder of l l -1 5 the article delivery assembly) and mounted on the guide assembly 42B for back and forward movement along at least one axis defined by the guide assembly (the vertical axis in the present example). The data reading unit 44A is configured for collecting radiation originating from a selected region and generating data indicative thereof. Such a data reading unit may include a camera for acquiring an homage of the selected region, in which case the data reading unit may be used for both identifying the article and mapping the cells arrangement. The data reading unit may include a radiation source for irradiating the selected region and a detector for collecting a radiation response of the irradiated region, so as to read an identification code provided on the article.

It should be understood that an identification code is an article-related data coded by any known technique consisting of assigning a specific data stream to an article which can then be automatically identified. Such an ID can be a barcode, an RF tag (data in the form of a sequence of response signals of RF circuits), a magnetic tag (a pattern formed by magnetic elements responsive to an external magnetic field), etc. Accordingly, the data reading unit 42A may be an optical system, and/or a magnetic field source, etc. It should also be noted that the article- related data may be indicative of the presence or absence of any article in the cell. In this case, each of the cells may be provided on its inner surface with a marker detectable when no article is present in the cell. Such a marker may be configured for reflecting predetermined radiation or generating a radiation response to predetermined exciting radiation.

The data reader thus includes a radiation source operable to generate this predetermined radiation and a radiation detector to read the returned (reflected, excited) radiation. Thus, generally, such a data reading unit emits "reading" electromagnetic radiation towards the cell currently aligned with the data reading unit to cause a radiation response of the respective identification code on the article in the cell or on the inner surface of the cell.

The monitoring system 32 (article identifier assembly 32A and possibly also the mapping assembly 32B) can, at any point in time, inspect (scan) the ; - 16 cell's arrangement 30 and determine the empty cells and the exact articles which reside in the cells. The relative displacement between the data reading unit provides for appropriately positioning the data reading unit with respect to any cell of the cells' arrangement 30. Such a positioning assembly can be of the kind effecting rotation and vertical movement of the data reading unit with respect to the stationary mounted cells arrangement 30. In the present example of Fig. 2A, the data reading unit 44A is mounted on the holder 34A, which is in turn mounted for vertical movement along the axis of the guide member 42A, thus vertically displacing the unit 44A with respect to the cells arrangement 30. Thus, the data reading (i.e., scanning of the cells) is implemented by rotating the cells' arrangement 30 with respect to the assembly 32A (or rotating the assembly 32A with respect to the cells arrangewcnt 30) and vertically moving the data reading unit 44A (the holder 34A) with respect to the cells arrangement 30. It should be understood that any other contractual configuration is possible, provided it is designed for a relative displacement between the relevant part of the monitoring system 32 and the cells arrangement 30, in any predetermined spatial resolution (in x, y, z axes).

The mapping assembly 32B is designed and operated to enable obtaining data indicative of the cells' dimensions and their relative position within the array of cells. To this end, the data reading unit 44B may be configured for detecting, during the relative displacement between the unit 44B and the cells arrangement 30, the borders (shelves and dividers) between the cells and shelves 39A. This may be achieved by using an imaging system (e.g., camera) in the data reading unit 44B, or by providing identification marks (e.g., reflectors of predetermined radiation, electromagnetic or acoustic radiation) on the cells and/or dividers and providing a source of such radiation in the data reading unit 44B. Thus, during the relative displacement between the data reading unit 44B and the cells' arrangement 30, data indicative of images of cell's arrangement 30 or of a pattern of the cells' dividers is created. This data is then processed with the aid of appropriate algorithms (e.g., pattern recognition algorithm) to detennine the cells map and possibly also articles identification within the cells.

The mapping of the cells arrangement may be implemented by using a rotation counter (not shown) and a sensor (the data reading unit 44A or 44B).

Such a rotation counter is a part of the rotation drive mechanism 40 and may be of the kind known in the art, capable of counting the number of relative rotations (e.g., rotation of the cells arrangement). The lift unit 42A or 42B, carrying the data reading unit, moves up and down along the guide axis. The vertical movement of the data reading unit combined with the rotation of the cells arrangement enable the control system 36 to appropriately position the data reading unit in order to identify either the shelf 39A or divider 39B. Mapping of the cells arrangcmcut is performed automatically, i.c., the dimensions (width and height) of each cell are determined. The procedure begins with the data reading unit being brought to its initial position along the z-axis with respect to the cells arrangement, and is then moved along the z-axis (e.g., moves upward, when starting from the initial lowermost position). The shelves 39A are thus successively identified and the number of shelves is counted. Since the movement along the z-axis includes a distance meter, the control system 36 can calculate the vertical differences between any two successive shelves, and consequently, lne height of any numbered ceil. The width of any cell is determined starting from the initial lowermost position of the data reading unit and then rotating the cells arrangement 30 with respect to the data reading unit to successively identify the dividers 39B to thereby enable counting of the dividers.

Consequently, with the measured rotated angle between any two successive dividers 39B, the width of any cell is determined. By such activities and numbering the cells, a complete cells map is established.

With such data obtained with any of the previous configurations, the control unit 36 establishes the so-called "locations map", which is a type of look-up' table that correlates an article with one or more locations in the cells' arrangement 30. Having provided the updated locations map, upon selection of - 1 8 an article by a customer, the control unit 36 can instruct the machine 1 (i.e., the article identifier assembly and the article delivery assembly) to locate this specific article and dispense it to the customer. However, if also cells' borders (or the entire image of cells arrangement loaded with articles) were identified, a more comprehensive 'look-up' table is established. Such a table is indicative not only of a specific location where the article Identification code itself resides in space, but also of where exactly the article itself resides, thus facilitating the article delivery process. Based on predetermined cells' positions and dimensions, the data reading unit 44A is then directly targeted to locations where it is most l O likely to find the specific identification code. Thus, delivery and monitoring time of the vending machine I is significantly reduced.

The application of any of the aforesaid configurations of the article identifier assembly 32A and cells mapping assembly 32B, a complete map of articles with respect to cells is established, i.e., for any chosen cell (position), the control unit 36 can adapt a stored article (or empty cell) and vice versa, for any type of article, the control unit 36 correlates all the cells in which such article is stored. As a result, a 'look-up' table is created in which to any article a position (cell) is correlated. These assemblies can be operated at any moment in order to keep the 'look-up' table updated as vending process continues. Having such 'look-up' table established, powerful monitoring capabilities are established as wc11. For example, the machine can be stopped form being operated at any chosen or predetermined moment (e.g., if the consumption of certain article reaches predetermined level). Reports concerning the re-loadings of a machine can be produced (e.g., in SMS or Email format). Moreover, an automatic and continuous connection is established from the central operation center to any remote vending machine. Based on such connection, any operational parameter can be monitored.

The article delivery assembly 34 is preferably equipped with a data reading unit. In the present example, this is data reading unit 44A of the monitoring system 32, but it should be understood that a separate data reading l - 1 9 unit may be used in the article delivery assembly 34. The machine thus includes at least one data reading unit for identifying articles loaded in the cells arrangement. Preferably, the machine would include another data reading unit for identifying the selected article just prior to be delivered to a customer. The configuration of this second data reading unit is such that when the selected article becomes located on the holder 34A, the data reading unit 44A is operated to identify the article (e.g., by reading the identification code on the article and/or imaging the article, etc.), the article-related data is processed to determine wYcther it matches that of the requested article and whether the article delivery is allowed by the payment managing assembly. Upon detecting that these conditions are satisfied, the control unit operates the article outputting element 34B to output the article from the holder unit 34A. As indicated above, in order to reduce the machine footprint and save resources, few elements of the machine 1 can serve for various tasks in different assemblies, such as the same data IS reading unit 44A and the same positioning assembly (lift 34A and guide 42A) arc used for establishing articles 'look-up' table and for articles delivery.

The machine provides for delivering a selected article out of its storage cell to a position where it can be collected by a customer, i.e., to the holder 34A having a spot or door 34B. To this end, the machine further includes an article removing assembly 50. The article removing assembly is generally configured so as to enable transfer of the selected article from the cell to the holder 34A of the article delivery assembly 34. This can be implemented by pushing or pulling means. The actuator may be mounted on the holder and configured for gripping (capturing) and transferring the article, or being a conveyor arm capable of supporting the article from its bottom side.

Preferably, the pushing element is used being associated with the cells arrangement. As shown in Fig. 2A, such a pushing-based article removing assembly 50 is accommodated in the cells arrangement being positioned inside the frame 30 so as to be at the rear side of the cell, and is driven by a drive assembly 52 operated by the control system 36. l

As more specifically shown in Fig. 2B, the article removing assembly 50 is configured for pushing the article from the cell 31 towards the holder 34A of the article delivery assembly 34. It should, however, be noted that the article delivery assembly may be mounted for a movement along a certain horizontal plane located below the cells arrangement. In this case, the article removing assembly 50 just pushed the article from a specific cell to be dropped downward and received by the holder of the delivery assembly which is previously to a vertical alignment with this cell either by moving the cells' arrangement (rotation thereof in this specific example) or moving the delivery assembly along said lO plane. Generally, the system configuration is such as to allow alignment of the article removing assembly and the article delivery assembly with the respective cell. As exemplified in Fig. 2B, the holder 34A of the article delivery assembly is located at a front side 31A of the cell 31, and the article removing assembly 50 is accommodated at the rear side 31B of the cell 30.

The article removing assembly 50 comprises an actuator 54 supported on a guide assembly fonmed by a guiding element 56A extending along Z-axis and a guiding element 56B mounted on the guide 56A and extendable along Xaxis away from the guide 56A. The actuator 54 is fixed to the distal end of the guide 56B to be therefore movable back and forward along the X-axis. It should be understood that, alternatively, such a movement of the actuator 54 (pushing memDcr) towards and away from the cell 31 may be achieved by moving the guide 56A along the X-axis thus eliminating the need for the second guide 56B.

The guide 56B (or the actuator 54 directly mounted on the guide 56A) is a lift unit driven for movement along the axis of the guide 56A. The guide 56A is in tuna driven for rotation about the central axis of the cells arrangewcnt 30 to thereby be brought to a selected cell frown which the article is to be removed. It should be understood that, alternatively, an astray of such pushing members (actuators) may be provided, each associated with a corresponding one of the cells tl1us eliminating a need for rotation and vertical movement; or each associated with a corresponding one of cells' columns thus eliminating a need for rotation of the actuator; or each associated with a corresponding shelf of the cells arrangement thus eliminating a need for a vertical movement.

It should be understood that the movements of the actuator lift 54 and article delivery lift 34A is synchronized by the control system 36 to ensure that the actuator 54 and the holder 34A are aligned with the same cell 31. In the specific example of Figs. 2A-2B, the aiignmen is such that the actuator 54 and the holder 34A are located exactly opposite each other at, respectively, the rear and front side of the same cell 31.

Thus, when a customer selects an article, the control system 36 operates to l O determine the specific position of the selected article in the cells arrangement 30 based on the 'look-up' table previously created as described above (which is preferably based on the "FIFO" {First In First Out} principle). Then, the control system 36 operates the drive mechanism 40 to provide a relative displacement between the cells arrangement and the article removing assembly 50 (e.g., rotates the cells arrangement 30), and synchrony operates the article delivery assembly 34 and the article removing assembly 50 to bring the holder 34A and the actuator 54 to the alignment with each other and with the selected cell. Alternatively (as indicated above), with fixed cells arrangement 30, the lifts 34A and actuator 54 are rotatable with respect to the cells arrangement. Consequently, with any of the aforesaid alternatives, both actuator 54 and delivering holder 34A are positioned in alignment with a respective cell 31 (e.g., at opposite sides of this cell) in which the selected article is stored. The data reading unit 44A is used here to detect the presence of the selected article in the cell, and if found to identify its exact identification code. If the selected article is not found in the prescribed ceil, the control system 36 runs an appropriate algorithm, e.g., based on default steps, such as effecting a search for alternative position where such article is stored according to the 'look- up' table (those articles that are not recorded in the "look up" table inventory will not to be listed/presented to customers). In a case no such alternative cell exists, the control system generates an appropriate message 3() to the customer. If the specific article is identified by the data reading unit, the l control system operates the article removing assembly 50 to push the article out of cell to the holder 34A of the article delivery assembly. Once the required article is identified and delivering is commencing (article is pushed through the slot 34B of the holder unit 34A or positioned on the open-design holder, as the case may be), the dispensing port/door (5 in Fig. 1), which is normally closed in ordei to prevent any unauthorized access lo articles, is skilled into its open position, and a customer can access to the article positioned in the article delivery assembly. It should be rioted that the door 5 is opened based on predetermined conditions, as described above, namely, after locating the correct article in the delivery assembly and completion of payment process.

A customer may select more than one article to be vended by the machine 1. The prices of the selected articles are added to the customer's shopping card, and the articles might be delivered at a single delivery process. For such option, the article delivery assembly 34 would be appropriately designed (sized). The control system operates to sequentially position the actuator 54 and the holder 34A in alignment with the cells containing the selected articles, thus allowing for collecting, article-by-article, all the selected articles on the holder 34A.

Alternatively, the articles may be delivered sequentially. Once a customer completes selection of articles of his interest, the control system 36 creates a delivery scheme. The control system 36, based on appropriate algorithm (e.g., parameters such as fragility, dimensions) determines the order by which the articles will be removed from their cells.

It should be noted that the article delivery assembly may utilize, as alternative of or in addition to the data reading unit, a sensor of the type capable of detecting the existence of an article located therein due to reflected radiation or by other means. .Once the presence of the article is detected, the sensor reports the same to the control system 36. The latter, accordingly, stops or prevents any article from being delivered. Such a sensor is therefore used as means to prevent operation problems.

Turning now to Fig. 3, there is shown a cells arrangement t30 suitable to be used in the vending machine of the present invention. The cells arrangement is constructed generally similar to that of Fig. 2A, and distinguishes therefrom in that cells 131 are divided into three different groups of cells having different dimensions: group including the smallest cells 131A, group of cells 131B of a medium size, and group of the largest cells 131C. The configurations are pre-determined by the operators of machine based on commercial interests, i.e. according to the types and amounts of articles to be vended (ink cartridges, food, drinks, drugs, DVD's, CD's etc.). The vending machine is therefore not restricted to specific type of articles.

Any required division is accomplished by structuring ceils' arrangement out of removable shelves 39A and flexible dividers 39B, which are exemplified in more detail in Figs. 4A and 4B showing respectively a top and side views of a part of the cells' arrangement. The shelf 39A is a ring-like disc of a certain width l 5 R of the r ing. Such discs 39A are mounted one above the other. The total number of discs 39A and the internal spacing Sj between any two adjacent discs 39A can be detennined by the operator. Evidently, any such combinations of spacings S; with the total number of discs 39A results in different cell's height. The width of the cells is determined by removable dividers 39B attached to a rigid stand 39C.

Other ways for (automatic) structuring and re-sizing cells' arrangement may be used as well.

As indicated above, the vending machine preferably includes an article recycling (or return) assembly for collecting articles such as for example ink cartridges to be refilled. At the outer surface of the machine exposed to a customer, the article recycling assembly is constituted by a door (6 in Fig. 1).

Figs. 5A and 5B show two specific, but not limiting examples, of the configuration and operation of the article recycling assembly.

As exemplified in Fig. 5A, the article recycling assembly 60 includes a reception chamber 62 associated with the door (6 in Fig. l) on the outer surface of the machine housing, a collecting chamber 64, and a nonrecyclable (return) exit 66 that may be associated with the same or another door-like opening on the outer surface of the machine housing. The types of articles to be recycled (return) are pre-dctermined based on various considerations and relevant data is stored in a memory of the control system. Once such data is determined and recorded, the control system operates to allow only certain predetermined articles to be recycled (or return) by the vending machine and reject recycling (or return) of all other articles. The article recycling (or return) assembly 60 operates in the following manner: An article to be recycled (or return) is inserted by a customer into the reception chamber 62 via the door 6 on the outer surface (see Fig. 1).

Being pushed into the chamber 62, the article becomes placed on a loading/unloading member 68. The loading/unloading member 68 has any appropriate design allowing for loading this member with an article and allowing for unloading the article to a predetermined position. In this example, the member 68 is designed like a moveable conveyor, in the form of a support member accommodated between the collection chamber 64 and the recycling (or return) exit chamber 66 and operated by a drive 69 (which is in turn operated by the control system) to be shiftable from its inoperative position (horizontally aligned) into either one of its two operational positions. The shifting is operated by the control system depending on the processing results (i.e., whether the specific article is or is not allowed to be recycled (or return)), such that in its first operational position the member 68 allows loading of the article into the collection chamber 64, and in the second operational position the member 68 unloads the article to the recycling (or return) exit chamber 66. To this end, the article recycling assembly 60 includes an article identifier unit 70 positioned so as to "look" onto the support surface of the loading/unloading member 68.

Recycling (or return) instructions for a customer are displayed on screen (3 in Fig. 1). These may include special positioning instructions with respect to the reception chamber 62, placing the article in between a marked area, etc. When the customer initiates the recycling (or retune) process, the control system operates the article identifier 70 to identify the article located on the member 68 based on single of combination of predetermined parameters such as dimensions, shape, colors, weight, identification code, etc. The article identifier 70 may include appropriate illuminations means (e.g., LEDs) and detection means (COD, CMOS color camera or any other suitable detector), and may include a processor for analyzing the detected parameters of the article or alternatively transmit data indicative of the measurements from the detector to the control system whether this data is processed (based for example on pattern recognition). If the article is recognized as a recyclable (or allowed to be returned) article, the control system operates the member 68 to load the article into the collection chamber 64, and is the article is recognized as non-recyclable the control unit operates the member to unload the article to the exit chamber 66, and displays relevant data to the customer.

Shifting of the member 68 between its receiving position and one of the article collecting and article existing positions may be implemented by a horizontal movement and in a certain position tilting the member 68 by a certain angle. The article thus slides down into the respective chamber. This is illustrated in Fig. 5B using the same reference numbers to facilitate understanding. As shown, a holder 68 is either initially located so as to allow a customer to place an article thereon, or as shown in dashed lines is movable, upon customer's request, from its inside non-accessble position to that accessible to the customer. An article identifier 70 is located above the holder. Preferably, the configuration is such that a customer has no access to the region inside the machine where the article identification is carrier out. If the article is identified as being recyclable, the holder (operated by the control system) is tilted to allow the article sliding towards the collection channel, and if not the holder moves back in the horizontal plane to output the article.

Collected articles may be kept inside the chamber 66 until an operator discharges them. Alternatively, the machine may operate automatically to detect the existence of the article in the collected chamber and move the article into an empty cell. This may be implemented by the same article delivery assembly and 1 I l I 1 I I I I l l 1 ' the actuator of the article removing assembly or separate similar assemblies. The articlerelated data including its position in the cells arrangement is recorded in the "look-up" table, thereby allowing vending of this article again.

Loading or unloading of the article is followed by an appropriate message appearing on the screen 3. In a case of recognized recyclable (or return) artic]c, it might also be followed by discharging a receipt or cash to the customer.

Generally, the recycling (or return) assembly 60 is managed and controlled by the control system of the machine. When the machine is part of a chain operable via a network (as described below), the recycling (or return) process may be managed by a central control station. 'lithe recycling (or return) management includes determination of relevant parameters as type of recyclables, return rate per article, etc. As indicated above a vending process preferably utilizes a chain of vending machines each connectable to a central control system via a communication network. To this end, a local control system directly connected to the vending machine is installed with suitable hardware/software capable of initiating a client-scrvcr session, and suitable application program interface for operating the machine in accordance with commands coming from the central system and for reporting the machine operational status to the central system.

flag. 6 schematically illustrates a system 200 formed by a chain 202 of remotely located plurality of local stations, generally at 204, each connectable to a central control station 236A via a network, e.g., the Internet. The local station 204 includes a vending machine 206 (for example configured as described above) and a local control system 236B, which is connectable to the network.

The control stations 236A and 236B present together the control system 36 operated as described above to manage the vending process of each of the vending machines in the chain. Each machine 206 can be installed in a different place (different places in a building, different places in a town, ctc.). The central station 236A manages, operates and controls the network (overall management), where the local control station 236B of each machine 206, with or without human 1 l l operator, operates and control each machine for itself (local management). Local operation may includethe delivery of certain article, whereas overall management determines for example the overall input parameters (articles types, their distribution between the machines, prices, etc.).

Fig. 7 exemplifies a method for calibrating a vending machine to be ready for vending articles. Rcfcrring to a single machine, articles to be vended by this machine arc determined and initial article-related data is created (step 80). Based on these data, the mapping assembly automatically determines whether the machine's cells arrangement fits the articles to be loaded (step 82). If not, a l O machine operator or other automatic means resize the cells arrangement or replaces the cells arrangement by another one (step 84). The articles are loaded in the cells arrangement (step 86), while the loading may be randomly, i.e., any article can be inserted to any cell as far as it fits cell's dimensions. It should be noted that the initial article-related data also includes the operation parameters such as prices, types of recyclable articles, discharges, etc.). After the articles have been loaded, the monitoring system operates to identify the articles distribution within the cells arrangement (step 88). The so-obtained map is automatically compared with the initial article-related data (step 90). If the actual types and amounts of articles fit the initial data, a positive answer is generated and machine is approved for vending (step 92). If not, appropriate steps are taken by machine operator or any involved third party in order to solve the misfit (step 94). The resultant map can be combined with the cells map in order to establish the 'look-up' table needed for the delivery process. The machine now starts automatic monitoring the activities over it (dispensing, payment, etc.) and reporting the vending process to the control unit (step 96). If new misfits are found such as discrepancy, at a certain point of time, between the total values of the dispensed articles to the total payment, appropriate steps are taken.

If the vending machine is part of a network, during the creation of the initial data the central station determines the overall distribution articles in the network, e.g., the types, amounts and prices of articles to be stored in each l at: l l l l l l maehine of the network, as well as geographical distribution of the machines.

Accordingly, articles for loading are provided to human operator together with an invoice. This will enable to monitor articles from the depot center until dispense by customer. For example, the central station will allow operation of the machine, in accordance with the monitoring reports from the local control station The overall management enables the central station to operate any marketing policy, e.g., distribution of certain articles, in certain amounts to certain machines and for a limited time period (e.g., a "sale") based on learned experience. Moreover, any report and correlation between any parameter can automatically be prepared for the network or a certain machine.

Preferably, the central or local control station periodically or upon request operates the monitoring system of the machine to update the 'lookup' table. This may assist the operator in monitoring the machine and provides for automatically managing the stocks, e.g., whether articles delivery is only due to uptake or maybe thefts.

The vending process preferably provides complementary services to a customer beside vending and recycling (or return), in the same place. This may include provision of more information about the articles vended by machine, as well as related articles which are not directly vended by machine, means to continue the transactions with machine at a different location or means io perform different transaction in a different place which is connected to machine by any business relation. All these are termed "information kiosk". An information kiosk is implemented by an appropriately designed utility formed by specific software loaded in the central control system (236A in Fig. 6) and at least one vending machine. Central control system 236A operates the information kiosk functions by the specific software, and the service itself is given to a customer through the vending machine. More specifically, a customer obtains information about a specific service of the information kiosk by using the machine display (3 in Fig. 1). The service may be completed by payment and deliveries through payment-managing arrangement 4 and dispensing port 5. For l l example, considering that ink cartridges are vended by the machine, a customer, in addition to recycling such used cartridge back into the machine, can also receive a coupon during the vending process by which he can purchase another article at a special price in a different machine which is member of the specific chain managed via the network. During purchasing or recycling, a customer may receive a coupon to be used later in the nearest retailer or bossiness relation with the machines' chain manager, or the saline machine, or at another retailer or another machine located elsewhere, in order to get a discount during purchase of a new ink cartridge. Alternatively, a customer, who has purchased an ink cartridge, may obtain additional information on places where related equipment is sold in discounts, as part of business relation with the machines' chain manager. A coupon is delivered by the information kiosk (equipped with a printer) for such customer in order to get said discount elsewhere. Turning back to Fig. 1, outputs of the aforesaid information kiosk are delivered through a printing port 7 and related infonnation is displayed. To this end, the control system is installed with suitable software for managing the kiosk- related actions and display relevant information to customers, such as payment related data, kiosk operational state (in/out), ticket-related data or any other function of the kiosk arrangement in order to increase customer service rate.

Tile -vending process may utilize a Websitc in a cybcr space. A custorr. cr is provided with a Cyberspace Website which is connected to the central control station. In such a Website, a customer can search for an article which is vended by any of vending machines in the chain connectable to the network. A customer may receive data indicative of the geographical locations of the vending machines of the chain and the list of articles available in each of these vending machines. This provides the customer with a convenient pick up. If the customer founds the article of his interest, he can purchase it and determine in which vending machine it will be collected by him. If a purchase order is completed via the Website, the central station instructs the machine, where the article is going to be dispensed, to keep such article for a pre-determincd period of time. After 1: ' 1 I l the article is dispensed, the local control unit of thc relevant machine reports this to the central station, and the stock as well as the reloading lists is updated accordingly. Preferably, the payment is conducted by a credit card. The credit card is not charged, until the article is delivered from the specific machine which the customer designated in the Wcbsite and only after the customer has been recognized according to his credit card. In addition, a customer can receive in such Website additional and related information, for example with respect to related articles, or receive purchasing means such as coupons. Therefore, such a Website can also serve as information kiosk.

Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and changes can be applied to the embodiments of the invention as hereinbefore exemplified without departing from its scope defined in and by the appended claims. l l -3 1

Claims (61)

1. CLAIMS: 1. An automatic vending machine comprising: (a) a cells'

   arrangement having an arrays of cells, each for storing an article therein, (b) a monitoring system comprising an article identifier assembly configured and operable for identifying an article-related data in each of the cells; (c) an article delivering assembly comprising an article holder for receiving a predefincd article removed from the respective cell and allowing delivery of the removed article to a customer; and (d) a control system connectable to the article identifier assembly and to the article delivery assembly for selectively operating these assemblies and recording data indicative of articles currently stored in the cells' arrangement and of article removed from the cells' arrangement.
2. 2. The machine of Claim 1, wherein the monitoring system comprises a mapping assembly for mapping the cells' arrangement.
3. 3. The machine of Claim 2, wherein said mapping assembly includes determination of a pattern of the cells.
4. 4. The machine of Claim 3, wherein the pattern is indicative of the cells' dimensions and their spatial distribution within the cells arrangement.
5. 5. The machine of Claim 3, wherein the mapping assembly is configured and operable to determine borders of the cells in said cells' arrangement.
6. 6. The machine of any one of preceding Claims, wherein the articlerelated data includes an identification code provided on the article, thereby enabling identifying the article type according to data stored in the control system.
7. 7. The machine of any one of preceding Claims, wherein the articlerelated data includes data indicative of an image of the article.
8. 8. The machine of any one of Claims 2 to 7, wherein the mapping assembly is configured and operable for imaging each of the cells, thus enabling to identify a type of the article located in the cell. l l
9. 9. The machine of any one of preceding Claims, comprising a drive assembly operable by the control system to provide a relative displacement between the article identifier assembly and the cells' arrangement, thereby enabling any appropriate positioning of the article identifier assembly relative to the cells' arrangement.
10. 10. The machine of Claim 9, wherein the drive assembly is associated with the article identifier assembly for moving it with respect to the cells' arrangement.
11. 11. The machine of Claim 9 or 10, wherein the drive assembly is associated with the cells' arrangement for moving it with respect to the article identifier assembly.
12. 12. The machine of Claim 9, wherein said relative displacement includes a relative rotation.
13. 13. The machine of Claim 9, wherein said relative displacement includes a back and forward movcmcut of the article identifier assembly with respect to the cells arrangement along at least one axis.
14. 14. The machine of any one of preceding Claims, wherein said array of cells is a two-dimensional array.
15. 15. The machine of any one of Claims I to 13, wherein said array of cells is 2() a three-dmensonal array.
16. 16. The machine of Claim 15, wherein the cells' arrangement is configured as a frame with a polygonal outer surface.
17. 17. The machine of Claim 15, wherein the cells' arrangement is configured as a frame with a substantially circular outer surface.
18. 18. The machine of Claim 15, wherein the cells' arrangement is configured as a frame with a substantially apiary like outer surface.
19. 19. The machine of any one of preceding Claims, wherein the cells arrangement is configuecd to allow for adjusting dimensions of at least some of the cells.
20. 20. The machine of any one of preceding Claims, wherein said article identifier assembly includes a data reading unit configured for collecting radiation originating from a selected region and generating data indicative thereof.
21. 21. The machine of Claim 20, wherein said data reading unit includes a camera for acquiring an image of the selected region.
22. 22. The machine of Claim 20, wherein said data reading unit includes a radiation source for irradiating the selected region and a detector for collecting a radiation response of said region.

    ] 0
23. 23. The machine of Claim 22, wherein said data reading unit is configured for reading at least one of the following: an optical barcode, a magnetic tag, and an RF tag.
24. 24. The machine of any one of preceding Claims, wherein the articlerelated data is indicative of presence or absence of any article in the cell.
25. 25. The machine of Claim 24, wherein each of the cells is provided on its inner surface with a marker detectable when no article is present in the cell.
26. 26. The machine of Claim 25, wherein the marker is configured for reflecting predetermined radiation, the article identifier assembly including a radiation source operable to generate said predetermined radiation.
27. 27. The ma;hie of arry one of Claims 20 io 26,, wherein the article identifier assembly includes a lift unit carrying said data reading unit and mounted on a guide assembly for back and forward movement along at least one axis defined by the guide assembly.
28. 28. The machine of any one of preceding Claims, wherein the article delivery assembly comprises an article removing assembly.
29. 29. The machine of Claim 28, wherein the article removing assembly is mounted on said holder and configured for capturing the article in the cell and transferring it to said holder.
30. 30. The machine of Claim 29, wherein the article removing assembly includes a gripper.
31. 31. The machine of Claim 28, wherein the article removing assembly is configured for pushing the article from the cell towards the holder.
32. 32. The machine of claim 31, wherein the holder is located in a plane lower than that of the aticlc to be removed, and said article arrives at the holder by falling or sliding due to gravity force.
33. 33. The machine of Claim 3 l, wherein the article removing assembly comprises an actuator located at a rear side of the cell and operable to push the article in said cell towards the holder located at a front side of the cell.
34. 34. The machine of Claim 29, wherein said article removing assembly lO includes a first lift unit mounted on a guide assembly and driven for a back and forward movement along at least one axis defined by the guide assembly with respect to the cells arrangement.
35. 35. The machine of Claim 33, wherein said actuator includes an array of pushing members, each associated with a corresponding one of the cells.
36. 36. The machine of Claim 33, wherein said actuator includes a pushing member, the machine comprising a drive mechanism configured to provide a relative displacement between said pushing member and the cells arrangement.
37. 37. The machine of Claim 36, wherein said pushing member is driven for a back and forward movement with respect to the cells arrangement along at least one axis.
38. 38. The machine of Claim 37, wherein said pushing member is supported on a second lift unit mounted on a guide assembly for the movement along the at least one axis defined by the guide assembly.
39. 39. The machine of Claim 38, wherein said article removing assembly includes a first lift unit carrying said holder and mounted on a first guide assembly and driven for a back and forward movement along at least one axis defined by the first guide assembly with respect to the cells arrangement, the first and second lift units being synchrony operated by the control system so as to match positions of the pushing member and the holder.
40. 40. The machine of Claim 37, wherein said pushing member is driven for rotation with respect to the cells arrangement.
41. 41. The machine of Claim 37, wherein the cells arrangement is driven for rotation with respect to said pushing member.

    S
42. 42. The machine of any one of preceding Claims, wherein the article delivery assembly comprises a data reading unit configured for collecting radiation originating from a selected region and generating data indicative thereof, to thereby enable identifying the removed article prior to being delivered to a customer.
43. 43. The machine of Claim 42, wherein said data reading unit is part of the article identifier assembly.
44. 44. The machine of Claim 43, wherein said data reading unit is supported on a lift unit mounted on a guide assembly for a back and forward movement along at least one axis defined by the guide assembly with respect to the cells l 5 arrangement.
45. 45. The machine of any one of preceding Claims, wherein said control system is connectable to a network.
46. 46. The machine of any one of preceding Claims, wherein said control system has a local controller connected to and operating the article identifier assembly and the article delivery assembly, said local controller being connectable to a central controller via a network to be managed by said central contro]]cr.
47. 47. The machine of any one of preceding Claims, comprising an article recycling or returning assembly configured for receiving an article from outside the machine.
48. 48. The machine of Claim 47, wherein the recycling or returning assembly comprises an article identifier assembly for identifying the article being input from the outside the machine and generating data indicative thereof to the control system, to thereby enabling processing of said data and determining whether the artic]c being input is allowed to be collected.
49. 49. The machine of Claim 48, wherein said article identifier assembly comprises a data reading unit.
50. 50. The machine of claim 49, wherein said data reading unit is an imaging unit capable of generating the data indicative of the image of the article being S input.
51. 51. The machine of Claim 49, wherein said data reading unit is configured for reading an identification code provided on the article.
52. 52. The machine of Claim 51, wherein said data reading unit is configured for determining at least one parameter of the article allowing for identification of the article.
53. 53. The machine of Claim 52, wherein said at least one parameter includes at least one of the following: identification code, weight, color, size, shape, material composition.
54. 54. The machine of Claim 4S, wherein the recycling or returning assembly IS comprises a loading/unloading member shiftable from its inoperative position into either one of its two operational positions, the shifting being operated by the control unit depending on the processing results, such that in its first operational position the member allows loading of the article being input so as to be collected in the machine, and in the second operational position unloads the article being input towards the outside of the machine.
55. 55. A method for operating a machine for vending articles, the method comprising: - automatically identifying an arrangement of articles currently stored in the machine and recording data indicative of types of the articles and their positions in the machine, thereby enabling arbitrary positioning of the articles within the machine; - in response to a customer's request, operating delivery of the selected article from the machine to the customer and recording data indicative of delivered articles.
56. 56. The method of Claim 55, comprising mapping an arrangement of eells in the machine intended for storing the articles therein, and recording mapping data indicative thereof.
57. 57. The method of Claim 55 or 56, comprising periodically carrying out said automatic identification of the articles' arrangement.
58. 5X. The method of any one of (claims 55 to 57, comprising carrying out said automatic identification of the articles' arrangement after the article delivery.
59. 59. The method of any one of Claims 55 to 58, comprising processing said data indicative of the types of the articles and their positions in the machine to determine whether said data satisfy a predetermined condition.
60. 60. The method of any one of Claims 55 to 59, comprising identifying an article being input into the machine through a customer-related article recycling or return assembly, to determine whether the article being input is allowed to be recycled or return or not.
61. 61. The method of any one of Claims 55 to 60, comprising operating the machine by a remote controller connectable to the machine via a network.