JP2002150371A - Vending machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a vending machine more usable when the operation condition is changed by forecasting the sales demand based on the past sales. SOLUTION: An operation changing means 33 changes the operation condition between the normal operation mode to the energy saving mode which requires less energy consumption than the normal operation mode. A memory means 38 stores the sales record by time zone. A control means 31 deduces the normal operation time zones from the sales record by time zone stored in the memory means 38. The operation changing means is controlled by setting time zones with a prescribed period of time added before the first time zone and after the last time zone as the normal operation time zones, and setting the time zones other than the normal operation time zones as the energy saving operation time zones.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a vending machine for predicting sales demand from past sales performance and switching the operation state.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, for example, a cup-type beverage vending machine in which a beverage is poured into a cup and provided and sold is available for selling hot beverages, cold beverages, and even cold beverages containing ice. In normal operating conditions, the heaters boil the hot water and keep it at a constant boiling temperature, the cooling device cools the cold water to keep it at a constant cooling temperature, and ice is made by the ice making device. The lamp that illuminates the panel is turned on.

When such a vending machine is installed in a factory or an office, demand for products is concentrated on the working hours on the day of work, and almost no demand on holidays or outside working hours. Nevertheless, maintaining a salable driving condition even in such a situation results in wasteful consumption of energy.

Therefore, for example, Japanese Patent No. 306604 is disclosed.
As described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 5 (1993), by predicting sales demand from past sales results and switching the operation state between normal operation and energy saving operation which consumes less energy than this normal operation, energy waste is reduced. There are vending machines that try. For sales demand forecast, sales results for each time zone of the day are stored for one week, and based on the sales results of the same day of the previous week, normal operation and sales are performed in the time zone where the sales results were obtained. Energy-saving operation is performed during the time when there was no track record. In addition, in order to correct the forecast of sales demand, an infrared sensor detects a person passing in front of the vending machine, an environmental temperature sensor detects a change in environmental temperature due to the operation of an air conditioner, and an illuminance sensor detects lighting. By detecting the lighting, for example, on holidays, there is no sales demand in the prediction, and even if the energy saving operation is set, the operation is automatically switched from the energy saving operation to the normal operation to permit the sale.

[0005]

However, since the sales demand is predicted from the past sales results and the operating state is switched between the normal operation and the energy saving operation, the prediction is often missed.

In order to correct the forecast of the sales demand, the operation is automatically switched from the energy saving operation to the normal operation based on the detection of the infrared sensor, the environmental temperature sensor, the illuminance sensor and the like, and the sales are permitted. It is not known whether or not the sale will actually be made just by doing so, and if the sale is not made, switching from the energy saving operation to the normal operation will be useless. That is, the user's will is not reflected, rather than being switched to the normal operation in which the sales are permitted by the user's will.

Further, as a scene seen in factories and offices, there is a case where a vending machine is in a normal operation even when there is no user. It is inevitable.

As described above, in the conventional vending machine, the prediction function is not sufficient, and the will of the user and the manager is not reflected, and the user is not provided with sufficient convenience.

The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object of the present invention is to provide a more convenient vending machine when switching the operation state by predicting sales demand from past sales results. And

[0010]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vending machine comprising: an operation switching means for switching an operation state between a normal operation and an energy saving operation which consumes less energy than the normal operation; Based on the sales results for each time zone stored in the storage means and the sales results for each of the time zones, the normal operation time zone is determined, and a predetermined time is set before the first time zone and after the last time zone. Control means for setting the added time zone as a normal operation time zone, and setting a non-normal operation time zone as an energy saving operation time zone, and controlling the operation switching means. .

Then, based on the sales results for each time zone,
Calculate the normal operation time zone and set a time zone before the first time zone and a predetermined time after the last time zone as the normal operation time zone, and set the time zone other than the normal operation time for energy saving operation. By setting the time zone, it is possible to respond to sales demand at a slightly earlier time or a slightly later time, so that the prediction function is improved and the convenience is improved.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vending machine, an operation switching means for switching an operation state between a normal operation and an energy saving operation which consumes less energy than the normal operation, and a memory for storing sales results for each time period during a predetermined period. Means for determining and setting the normal operation time zone based on the sales results for each time zone stored in the storage means, and setting the non-normal operation time zone as the energy saving operation time zone, and When the operation time period is within one day, the normal operation is set for a predetermined time from the same time period as the normal operation start time period on the day with the sales record before the previous day, and the control for controlling the operation switching means is performed. Means.

Then, based on the sales results for each time zone,
Calculate and set the normal operation time zone, and set the energy saving operation time zone other than the normal operation time zone, and
If the time zone of energy saving operation is within one day, by setting the normal operation for a predetermined time from the same time zone as the start time of the normal operation on the day with the sales record before the previous day, the sales demand changes. Can also be supported, so that the prediction function is improved and the convenience is improved.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vending machine, an operation switching means for switching an operation state between a normal operation and an energy saving operation which consumes less energy than the normal operation, and a memory for storing sales results for each time period of a predetermined period. Means for determining and setting the normal operation time zone based on the sales results for each time zone stored in the storage means, and setting the non-normal operation time zone to the energy saving operation time zone, And a control means for extending the normal operation by a predetermined time when a sale is made in the last time zone of the normal operation.

The normal operation time zone is determined and set based on the sales results for each time zone, the energy saving operation time zone is set other than the normal operation time zone, and the last time period of the normal operation is set. By extending the normal operation by a predetermined time when the vehicle is sold, it is possible to respond to the sales demand after the last time period of the normal operation, and therefore, the prediction function is improved and the convenience is improved.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vending machine, an operation switching means for switching an operation state between a normal operation and an energy saving operation which consumes less energy than the normal operation, and a memory for storing sales results for each time period of a predetermined period. Means, an annual timer for setting a day for energy saving operation, a weekly timer for setting a day of the week for energy saving operation, and a time slot for normal operation based on sales results for each time slot stored in the storage means. Setting and setting the energy saving operation time zone other than the normal operation time zone, and setting by the annual timer,
And control means for controlling the operation switching means in an operation state in which priority is given to the setting by the weekly timer and the setting based on the sales performance for each time zone stored in the storage means.

Then, based on the sales results for each time zone,
Calculate and set the normal operation time zone, and set the energy saving operation time zone other than the normal operation time zone, and
By giving priority to the operation state in the order of the setting by the annual timer, the setting by the weekly timer, and the setting based on the sales performance for each time zone stored in the storage means, the will of the vending machine installer is given priority. It is possible to switch the operation state in reflection, and the convenience is improved.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vending machine, an operation switching means for switching an operation state between a normal operation and an energy saving operation which consumes less energy than the normal operation, and a memory for storing sales results for each time period of a predetermined period. Means for determining and setting the normal operation time zone based on the sales results for each time zone stored in the storage means, and setting the non-normal operation time zone to the energy saving operation time zone, Control means for controlling the means, and switching operation means for switching the operation state by an external switching operation during operation in the operation state set by the control means.

Then, the normal operation time zone is determined and set based on the sales results for each time zone, the energy saving operation time zone is set outside the normal operation time zone, and the set operation state is switched. During the operation in the set operation state, the operation state can be switched from the energy saving operation to the normal operation or from the normal operation to the energy saving operation by the switching operation from the outside by the switching operation means. It is possible to switch the driving state reflecting the intention of the driver and the like, and the convenience is improved.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the vending machine according to the fifth aspect, the switching operation means for switching the operation state from the energy saving operation to the normal operation is a selection button for selecting a product.

The switching operation means for switching the operation state from the energy-saving operation to the normal operation is a selection button for selecting a product, so that the user can easily switch the operation state.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the vending machine according to the fifth aspect, the switching operation means for switching at least the operation state from the normal operation to the energy saving operation is a specific external switch not related to the sale of the product. There is something.

The switching operation means for switching at least the operation state from the normal operation to the energy saving operation is a specific external switch not related to the sale of the product, so that it can be switched by a specific user or an administrator, and can be switched by a general user. This makes it possible to prevent erroneous operations due to the operation.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the vending machine according to any one of the fifth to seventh aspects, wherein the storage means stores, as a sales record, when the operation state is switched by the switching operation means. Is what you do.

When the operation state is switched by the switching operation means, the sales result is stored in the storage means so that it can be reflected in the setting of the next operation state.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the vending machine according to any one of the fifth to eighth aspects, the control means operates for a predetermined time when the operation state is switched by the switching operation means. The state is switched, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the operation is switched to the operation in the operation state set by the control means.

When the operation state is switched by the switching operation means, the operation state is switched for a predetermined time, and after the predetermined time has elapsed, the operation is switched to the operation in the operation state set by the control means. It is possible to return to an appropriate operating state under the control of the control means without continuously operating in the operating state.

[0028] The vending machine according to the tenth aspect is the first aspect.
The vending machine according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, further comprising display means for displaying an operation state.

By displaying the operating state on the display means, it is possible to confirm the current operating state and switching of the operating state.

[0030]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS One embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 2 shows a vending machine. This vending machine is a cup-type beverage vending machine that pours out a beverage into a cup and provides and sells the vending machine. Door body 12 that can be opened and closed on the front of the main body 11
have.

A sales port 14 opened and closed by a sales port door 13 is formed substantially at the center of the door body 12, and above the sales port 14, a plurality of products displaying cards or the like indicating the types of beverages are displayed. A display section 15 and a selection button 16 for selecting a beverage are provided below the product display section 15 and an operation section having a display section 17 as a display means, a coin slot 18, a return lever 19, and the like. A return port 21 through which change and return coins are paid out is formed below the operation unit 20. The area above the sales outlet 14 of the door body 12 is covered with a panel 22 illuminated from the inside.

The display unit 17 displays operating amounts such as sales (normal operation), suspension, and energy saving operation (rest), in addition to displaying the amount of money inserted and running out of change. 17 in the figure
a is a display unit that indicates that the vehicle is in an energy saving operation.

Next, FIG. 1 shows a configuration diagram of a vending machine.
31 is control means for controlling the vending machine.
Has a selection button 16, display unit 17, operation unit 20, money processing unit
32, a hot water supply device 34, a cold water supply device 35, and a lighting device 36 are connected via an operation switching means 33, and further, a beverage supply device 37 is connected.

The money processing unit 32 accepts and processes coins inserted in the coin insertion slot 18 and pays out change and returned coins to the return slot 21. The hot water supply device 34 heats the drinking water supplied to the hot water tank to a predetermined temperature with a heater to keep the temperature. The cold water supply device 35 cools the cooling water with a cooler,
By arranging a cooling coil through which the drinking water passes in the cooling water, the cooling water and the drinking water exchange heat through the cooling coil when the drinking water is poured out, and the drinking water is cooled and discharged. The lighting device 36 includes a lamp such as a fluorescent lamp arranged inside the panel 22 of the door body 12, and illuminates the panel 22 from the inside.

The beverage supply device 37 is for pouring a beverage into a cup and supplying the beverage to the sales outlet 14. For example, in the case of regular coffee, coffee beans are ground, and ground coffee powder and hot water are mixed by an extractor. Then, the coffee liquid is filtered and extracted, and the filtered and extracted coffee liquid is poured into a cup. In the case of instant coffee, the powdered raw material and hot water are put into the cup and mixed with stirring.

The operation switching means 33 switches the operation state of the vending machine between a normal operation in which beverages can be sold and an energy-saving operation which consumes less energy than the normal operation.
In normal operation, the hot water supply device 34 keeps the hot water temperature in the hot water tank at, for example, 95 ° C., the cold water supply device 35 keeps the cold water temperature in the cooling coil at a predetermined cold water temperature,
The lamp is turned on and illuminated by 36, and in energy saving operation, the hot water supply device 34 keeps the temperature of hot water in the hot water tank at 63 ° C or more, which is the minimum storage temperature specified by the Food Sanitation Law, during normal operation. The temperature is kept lower than, for example, 67 ° C., and the temperature of the chilled water in the cooling coil is kept at 10 ° C. or less, which is the upper limit temperature of refrigeration specified by the Food Sanitation Law, by the chilled water supply device 35, and the temperature is kept higher than in normal operation. To turn off the lamp.

The control means 31 includes a storage means 38 and a timer
39 is connected. The storage means 38 stores and updates the sales results for each time period for a predetermined period, for example, three weeks, that is, whether or not the beverage has been sold. Timer 39 is
The system includes an annual timer 40 for setting the day of the energy saving operation every year and a weekly timer 41 for setting the day of the week for energy saving operation.

The control means 31 has a learning function for setting a time zone for normal operation and a time zone for energy-saving operation based on the sales results for each time zone stored in the storage means 38, an annual timer 40, and a weekly timer 41. It has a function of an operation state setting means for switching the operation switching means 33 to an operation state set for each time zone by a learning function, and a function of switching the operation state by a switching operation by an external switching operation means.

In the present embodiment, during operation in the operation state set by the control means 31, the switching operation means 42 for switching the operation state by an external switching operation changes the operation state from the energy saving operation to the normal operation. Switching operation means 42 for switching, and the selection button 16 for selecting a product is also used as the switching operation means 42.

Based on the sales results for each time zone stored in the storage means 38, the control means 31 normally sets a time zone obtained by adding a predetermined time before the first time zone and after the last time zone in which sales have been made. A function for setting the operation, a function for switching the operation state for a predetermined time when the operation state is switched by the switching operation means 42 and a function for switching to the operation in the operation state set by the control means 31 after the predetermined time has elapsed. If it is determined that the energy saving operation time zone is within one day based on the sales results for each time zone stored in the storage means 38, the same as the normal operation start time zone on the day with the sales performance before the previous day A function to set normal operation for a predetermined time from the time zone, a function to extend normal operation for a predetermined time when there is a sale in the last time period of normal operation, a setting by the annual timer 40, a setting by the weekly timer 41, And it has a function of controlling the operating conditions in preference to the order set by the learning function based on actual sales for each stored time zone to the means 38.

The storage means 38 has a function of storing the presence or absence of the sales result and a function of storing the sales result as a result of the operation when the switching operation means 42 switches the operating state.

Next, FIG. 3 shows an annual timer 4 of a vending machine.
0 shows the relationship between the weekly timer 41, the learning function, and the operating state.

The learning function can be switched between normal operation and energy saving operation, and can also be set to turn off the learning function. The weekly timer 41 can set sales and suspension for each day of the week and for each time zone. The weekly timer 41 can be set to off, and the yearly timer 40 can set the day of the energy saving operation and can also be set to off for the yearly timer 40.
These settings can be made using an operation unit for an administrator provided in the vending machine.

As described above, the normal operation and the energy-saving operation are set in the operation state (operation mode) based on the priority determined in the order of the annual timer 40, the weekly timer 41, and the learning function. When the annual timer 40 is in the energy saving operation, the energy saving operation is set. When the yearly timer 40 is off, the setting of the weekly timer 41 is prioritized. That is, when the weekly timer 41 is for sale, normal operation is set, and when it is off, energy saving operation is set. When the weekly timer 41 is turned off in addition to the yearly timer 40, the learning function is set by the learning function. That is, the normal operation is set by the learning function in the normal operation, and the energy saving operation is set by the energy saving operation. . Annual timer
When all of the weekly timer 41 and the learning function are off, the normal operation is continuously set.

The learning function works only when the annual timer 40 is off.

The switching from the energy saving operation to the normal operation by the operation of the switching operation means 42, that is, the wake-up function is effective only when the weekly timer 41 is sold or turned off and the energy saving operation is set. Is invalidated. In the figure, a valid case is indicated by a circle, and an invalid case is indicated by a circle.

Next, FIG. 4 shows an example of the operation state, sales performance and sales demand forecast of the vending machine for each time zone.
The switching operation of the operating state of the vending machine will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

The normal operation is started by resetting the learning function on April 3, and the sales results on the reset day are not stored in the storage means 38, but are stored for three weeks for each day of the week and for each time period from the next day. Are stored and stored in the storage means 38 (step 1). In FIG. 4, the time zone for normal operation is displayed with shading, and the time zone for energy saving operation is displayed in white,
The * mark is displayed at the time of the sales record.

The operation state is set based on the learning function from the next day when sales performance data for three weeks is accumulated, that is, from April 25. When setting the operation status on April 25, sales performance data 1 (April 4), 8 (April 11)
), 15 (April 18), the first and last time periods when sales were made, and the time period obtained by adding one hour before and after these time periods to the normal operation time period was set. Are set as energy saving operation time zones (step 2). In other words, sales performance data 8 (4
There are 2 o'clock units on March 11) and the last time period is 19:00 units on sales performance data 8 (April 11). Is set as the time zone for normal operation, and the other time zones from the 21:00 to 24:00 are set as the time zones for energy saving operation.

If the current time is April 25 and the set operation state is not the energy saving operation all day (step 3), it is checked whether the current time is in the energy saving operation time zone (step 4). If the time period is the operation time, the normal operation is performed (step 5). If the hot water temperature of the hot water supply device 34 and the cold water temperature of the cold water supply device 35 reach a predetermined temperature at which the water can be sold after the start of the normal operation, the display unit 17 displays that the product is on sale, and sells the beverage. Is acceptable.

When there is no sales in the last time zone of the normal operation time zone (step 6) and the current time is the time zone of the energy saving operation, the operation mode is switched to the energy saving operation (step 7).

If there is a sale in the last time period of the normal operation time period, the normal operation is extended by one hour (step 8). In other words, in the setting of April 25, the normal operation is until the 20:00 level, but if there is a sale at the 20:00 level, 2
Normal operation is extended to the 1 o'clock range. Furthermore, extended 21
If there is a sale during the hours after the hour, it will be extended by one hour.

Even if the normal operation is extended, before one day has passed (step 9), if the current time is within the time zone of the energy saving operation, the operation is switched to the energy saving operation.

During the energy saving operation, the display unit 17 displays that the energy saving operation is being performed, and waits for a request from the user for the normal operation (step 10) until one day has elapsed. For example, in the case of April 28, the normal operation ends at the 14:00 level, and the energy-saving operation is switched from the 15:00 level. By pressing a certain selection button 16, for example, two hours up to the 20:00 hours are forcibly set and switched to the normal operation time zone (step 11). In addition, 1 of April 30
The case where the selection button 16 which is the switching operation means 42 is pressed even at 5 o'clock is shown.

After switching to normal operation, the hot water supply device
When the hot water temperature of 34 and the chilled water temperature of the chilled water supply device 35 reach a predetermined temperature at which sale is possible, the display 17 indicates that the product is being sold, and the beverage is allowed to be sold. The switching operation to the normal operation by the switching operation unit 42 is stored in the storage unit 38 as the sales result.

When the operation is forcibly switched to the normal operation,
If there is a sale during the last hour, normal operation will be extended by one hour. Even if the system is switched to normal operation forcibly, if the current time is within the time zone for energy-saving operation before one day has passed,
Switch to energy saving operation.

When one day has elapsed, the sales performance data for that day is recorded and updated in the storage means 38 in place of the sales performance data three weeks ago (step 12).

Further, for example, when the driving state on April 30 is set, it is based on the sales result data 6 (April 9), 13 (April 16) and 20 (April 23). Since there was no sales on the day, the time zone during the day is set as the energy saving operation time zone.

In such a case, the normal operation is set for a predetermined time from the same time period as the normal operation start time period on the day having the sales record before the previous day (step 13). That is, since the normal operation has been started from the 5 o'clock on April 29 of the previous day, the normal operation is performed for 2 hours from the 5 o'clock on April 30. If there is a sale during the last time period of this normal operation (step 14), the normal operation is extended by one hour (step 1).
5) When the normal operation is completed, the normal operation is canceled (step 16).

With the above configuration, the prediction function can be improved and the convenience can be improved.

That is, based on the sales results for each time zone, the normal operation time zone is determined, and the time zone obtained by adding a predetermined time before the first time zone and after the last time zone is set as the normal operation time zone. Since it is set and the time zone other than the normal operation time zone is set as the energy saving operation time zone, it is possible to respond to the sales demand at a little earlier time or a little later time, so the prediction function is improved and the convenience is improved it can.

Further, based on the sales results for each time zone,
Calculate and set the normal operation time zone, and set the energy saving operation time zone other than the normal operation time zone, and
If the energy saving operation time is within one day, normal operation is set for a predetermined time from the same time period as the normal operation start time on the day with the sales record before the previous day, so the sales demand may change. The prediction function can be improved, and the convenience can be improved.

Further, the normal operation time zone is determined and set based on the sales results for each time zone, the energy saving operation time zone other than the normal operation time zone is set, and the last time period of the normal operation is set. Since the normal operation is extended for a predetermined time when the vehicle is sold, it is possible to respond to the sales demand after the last time period of the normal operation, so that the prediction function can be improved and the convenience can be improved.

Further, the driving state can be switched by reflecting the intention of the user or the administrator, and the convenience can be improved.

That is, based on the sales results for each time zone, the normal operation time zone is calculated and set, and other than the normal operation time zone is set as the energy saving operation time zone. Since the operation state is controlled in the order of the setting by the weekly timer 41 and the setting by the learning function based on the sales performance for each time zone stored in the storage means 38, the intention of the installer of the vending machine is preferentially reflected. The operating state can be switched in this manner, and the convenience can be improved.

Further, the normal operation time period is determined and set based on the sales results for each time period, and the time period other than the normal operation time period is set as the energy saving operation time period, and the set operation state is switched. During operation in the set operation state, the operation state is changed from energy saving operation to normal operation by an external switching operation by the switching operation means 42,
Alternatively, since the operation can be switched from the normal operation to the energy saving operation, the operation state can be switched by reflecting the intention of the user or the administrator, and the convenience can be improved.

Further, since the switching operation means 42 for switching the operation state from the energy saving operation to the normal operation is the selection button 16 for selecting a beverage, it can be easily switched by the user.

Further, the control unit 31 adds a predetermined time before the first time zone and after the last time zone based on the sales results for each time zone stored in the storage means 38. Is set to normal operation, it is possible to respond to changes in sales demand.

Further, when the operation state is switched by the switching operation means 42, it is stored as the sales result in the storage means 38, so that it can be reflected in the setting of the next operation state.

The switching means 42 is controlled by the control means 31.
When the operation state is changed in the operation state, the operation state is switched for a predetermined time, and after the predetermined time has elapsed, the operation state is switched to the operation state set by the control means 31. It is possible to return to an appropriate operating state under the control of the control means 31 without driving.

Further, since the operating state is displayed on the display unit 17, the current operating state and switching of the operating state can be easily confirmed.

Next, another embodiment is shown in FIG. 6, which is configured to switch the operation state from the normal operation to the energy saving operation in addition to switching the operation state from the energy saving operation to the normal operation.

A changeover switch 51 controlled by the control means 31 and an external switch 52 as changeover operation means 42 operable from outside the vending machine are provided.
The external switch 52 is switched in conjunction with the switching of the switch 51. When the switch 51 is connected to the contact a, the external switch 52 is connected to the contact c, and the terminal A for normal operation of the operation switching means 33 is operated. , A normal operation is executed, and when the changeover switch 51 is connected to the contact b, the external switch 52 is connected to the contact d, and a signal is sent to the terminal B for energy saving operation of the operation switching means 33. And energy saving operation is performed.

The external switch 52 is, for example, a hidden switch which can be operated only by a specific user or an administrator regardless of the sale of beverages. During normal operation, the switch can be switched independently of the operation switch 51, and the changeover switch 51 is connected to the contact a and the external switch 52 is connected to the contact c, and a signal is input to the terminal A for normal operation of the operation switching means 33. At
By switching the external switch 52 to the contact d side, a signal is input to the terminal B for energy saving operation of the operation switching means 33,
During the energy saving operation in which the operation mode is switched to the energy saving operation, and the changeover switch 51 is connected to the contact point b and the external switch 52 is connected to the contact point d and the signal is input to the energy saving operation terminal B of the operation switching means 33, Connect external switch 52 to contact d
By switching to the side, a signal is input to the terminal portion A for normal operation of the operation switching means 33, and the operation is switched to normal operation.

For example, in the case where the vending machine is not used on the day when the normal operation is performed based on the prediction of the sales demand based on the learning function, the normal operation is performed by a specific user or manager. Can be forcibly switched to energy saving operation.

Therefore, the control means 31 sets the time zone of the normal operation and the time zone of the energy-saving operation on the basis of the sales performance for each time zone, and switches to the operating state set for each time zone. During operation in the operation state set in 31, the operation state is changed from energy saving operation to normal operation by an external switching operation by the switching operation means 42.
Since the operation can be switched from the normal operation to the energy saving operation, the operation state can be switched by reflecting the intention of the user or the administrator, and a highly convenient vending machine can be provided.

Further, if the switching operation means 42 is constituted by a specific external switch 52 such as a hidden switch which can be operated only by a specific user or an administrator irrespective of the sale of a product,
Switching can be performed only by a specific user or an administrator, and erroneous operations by a general user can be prevented.

When the operation is switched from the normal operation to the energy saving operation by the external switch 52, the operation state of the day may be continued in the energy saving operation, or the operation state set by the control means 31 after a predetermined time has elapsed. Alternatively, the operation may be switched to the operation in the above.

Also, a changeover switch 51 and an external switch
In addition to 52, a switch configuration including an operation switch for turning on / off all operations may be formed.

In the above-described embodiment, a cup-type beverage vending machine has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and vending machines for canned beverages and bottled beverages and other products are sold. Applicable to vending machines,
A similar effect can be obtained. When there is no restriction such as the Food Sanitation Law, the energy saving operation includes a case where all operations are stopped.

[0082]

According to the vending machine of the first aspect, the normal operation time zone is determined based on the sales results for each time zone, and the predetermined time is set before the first time zone and after the last time zone. Is set as the normal operation time zone, and the non-normal operation time zone is set as the energy saving operation time zone, so it is possible to respond to sales demand in a little earlier or a little later time, Therefore, the prediction function is improved, and the convenience can be improved.

According to the vending machine of the second aspect, the normal operation time zone is determined and set based on the sales results for each time zone, and the other than the normal operation time zone is set as the energy saving operation time zone. In addition, if the time zone of the energy saving operation is within one day, the normal operation is set for a predetermined time from the same time zone as the start time of the normal operation on the day having the sales record before the previous day. Can respond to changes,
Therefore, the prediction function is improved, and the convenience can be improved.

According to the vending machine of the third aspect, the normal operation time zone is determined and set based on the sales performance for each time zone, and the other than the normal operation time zone is set as the energy saving operation time zone. In addition, since the normal operation is extended by a predetermined time when there is a sale in the last time period of the normal operation, it is possible to respond to the sales demand after the last time period of the normal operation, and therefore, the prediction function is improved. , Convenience can be improved.

According to the vending machine of the fourth aspect, the normal operation time zone is determined and set based on the sales results for each time zone, and the non-normal operation time zone is set as the energy saving operation time zone. And the operation state is controlled in the order of the setting based on the annual timer, the setting based on the weekly timer, and the setting based on the sales results for each time zone stored in the storage means, so that the will of the installer of the vending machine is determined. The operation state can be switched with priority reflected, and convenience can be improved.

According to the vending machine according to the fifth aspect, the normal operation time zone is determined and set based on the sales results for each time zone, and the other than the normal operation time zone is set as the energy saving operation time zone. , While switching to the set operation state, and during operation in the set operation state, the operation state is switched from energy saving operation to normal operation or from normal operation to energy saving operation by an external switching operation by the switching operation means. Therefore, the driving state can be switched by reflecting the intention of the user or the administrator, and the convenience can be improved.

According to the vending machine of the sixth aspect, in addition to the effect of the vending machine of the fifth aspect, the switching operation means for switching the operation state from the energy saving operation to the normal operation is operated by a selection button for selecting a product. Since there is, it can be easily switched by the user.

According to the vending machine of the seventh aspect, in addition to the effect of the vending machine of the fifth aspect, the switching operation means for switching the operation state from at least the normal operation to the energy saving operation is not involved in the sale of the product. Since it is a specific external switch, it can be switched by a specific user or an administrator, and erroneous operation by a general user can be prevented.

According to the vending machine according to the eighth aspect, in addition to the effect of the vending machine according to any one of the fifth to seventh aspects, when the operation state is switched by the switching operation means, the storage means is stored. Is stored as a sales record, and can be reflected in the setting of the next operation state.

According to the vending machine of the ninth aspect, in addition to the effect of the vending machine according to any one of the fifth to eighth aspects, when the operation state is switched by the switching operation means, a predetermined time is required. Only when the operation state is switched, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the operation is switched to the operation in the operation state set by the control means. Therefore, the operation is not continued in the switched operation state, and the appropriate operation state is controlled by the control means. Can be returned to.

According to the vending machine of the tenth aspect, in addition to the effect of the vending machine of any one of the first to ninth aspects, the operating state is displayed by the display means, so that the current operating state and the operating state Can be confirmed.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a vending machine showing an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a front view of the same vending machine.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing a relationship between an annual timer, a weekly timer, a learning function, and an operating state of the vending machine.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation state, a sales result, and a sales demand forecast of the vending machine for each time zone.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a switching operation of an operating state of the vending machine.

FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram of a switching circuit in an operating state according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 16 Selection button 17 Display section as display means 31 Control means 33 Operation switching means 38 Storage means 40 Year timer 41 Week timer 42 Switching operation means 52 External switch

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuing on the front page (72) Inventor Akihisa Nagumo 180 Furuichi-cho, Maebashi-shi, Gunma Toshiba Equipment Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Toshihisa 180 Furuichi-cho, Maebashi-shi, Gunma Toshiba Equipment F-term ( Reference) 3E044 AA01 DB12 DB16 DD10 FB11

Claims (10)

[Claims] 1. An operation switching means for switching an operation state between a normal operation and an energy-saving operation which consumes less energy than the normal operation, a storage means for storing a sales result for each time period of a predetermined period, and a storage means for storing in the storage means Based on the sales results for each of the time zones, the normal operation time zone is determined, and a time zone obtained by adding a predetermined time before the first time zone and after the last time zone is set as the normal operation time zone, A vending machine comprising: a control unit that sets a time period other than the normal operation time period to a time period of the energy saving operation and controls the operation switching unit. 2. An operation switching means for switching an operation state between a normal operation and an energy saving operation which consumes less energy than the normal operation, a storage means for storing sales results for each time period of a predetermined period, and a storage means for storing in the storage means. Based on the sales results for each time period, the normal operation time period is calculated and set, and the time period other than the normal operation time period is set as the energy saving operation time period, and the energy saving operation time period is all day. In the case of, control means for setting the normal operation for a predetermined time from the same time zone as the start time of the normal operation on the day of the sales record before the previous day for a predetermined time and controlling the operation switching means is provided. Vending machine characterized by the following. 3. An operation switching means for switching an operation state between a normal operation and an energy-saving operation which consumes less energy than the normal operation; a storage means for storing sales results for each time period of a predetermined period; The normal operation time zone is calculated and set based on the sales results for each of the time periods, and the time period other than the normal operation time period is set as the energy saving operation time period to control the operation switching means. Control means for extending the normal operation by a predetermined time when a sale is made in the last time zone of the vending machine. 4. An operation switching means for switching an operation state between a normal operation and an energy-saving operation which consumes less energy than the normal operation; a storage means for storing sales results for each time period of a predetermined period; An annual timer to be set; a weekly timer to set the day of the week for energy saving operation; and a time slot for normal operation based on the sales results for each time zone stored in the storage means. Other than the energy saving operation time zone, and the operation state is prioritized in the order of the setting by the annual timer, the setting by the weekly timer, and the setting based on the sales performance for each time zone stored in the storage means. A vending machine, comprising: control means for controlling the switching means. 5. An operation switching means for switching an operation state between a normal operation and an energy-saving operation which consumes less energy than the normal operation, a storage means for storing sales results for each time period of a predetermined period, and a storage means for storing in the storage means. Based on the sales results for each of the time zones, based on the time period of the normal operation to determine and set the time zone of the normal operation, set the time zone of the energy-saving operation other than the time zone of the normal operation, control means to control the operation switching means, A vending machine comprising: switching operation means for switching the operation state by an external switching operation during operation in the operation state set by the control means. 6. The vending machine according to claim 5, wherein the switching operation means for switching the operation state from the energy saving operation to the normal operation is a selection button for selecting a product. 7. The vending machine according to claim 5, wherein the switching operation means for switching the operation state from at least the normal operation to the energy saving operation is a specific external switch not related to the sale of the product. 8. The vending machine according to claim 5, wherein the storage means stores, as a sales record, when the operating state is switched by the switching operation means. 9. The control means switches the operation state for a predetermined time when the operation state is switched by the switching operation means, and switches to the operation in the operation state set by the control means after the predetermined time elapses. 9. The vending machine according to claim 5, wherein the vending machine is a vending machine. 10. The vending machine according to claim 1, further comprising display means for displaying an operation state.