JP7415791B2 - vending machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a vending machine that can improve the accuracy of determining the number of products in stock with a simple configuration.

Conventionally, in a vending machine that sells products such as canned drinks and plastic bottled drinks, a product storage rack is provided in a product storage inside a main body cabinet that is the main body of the vending machine. The product storage rack has a product storage path that extends in the vertical direction, and a product delivery device that is disposed at the bottom of the product storage path.

The product delivery device includes a lower pedal and an upper pedal. The lower pedal and the upper pedal are linked to an AC solenoid, which is an actuator, through a link, and are moved forward and backward into the product storage passage as appropriate when the AC solenoid is energized.

In such a product delivery device, in a standby state, the upper pedal is in a state of retreating from the product storage path, while the lower pedal is in a state of advancing into the product storage path. As a result, the lower pedal comes into contact with the lowest product stored in the product storage path, and the downward movement of the product stored in the product storage path is restricted.

When a product delivery command is given, the AC solenoid is energized in the product delivery device at the bottom of the product storage aisle that stores the corresponding product, and the upper pedal advances into the product storage aisle via a link. By moving and contacting the second product from the bottom, the product and products stored above the product are prevented from moving downward. In addition, when the above AC solenoid is energized, the lower pedal moves backward from the product storage passage, and the lowest product is the only one to be carried out downward. When the product passes through the lower pedal, the lower pedal is moved by the spring. Depending on the force, move to the product storage aisle. After that, when the AC solenoid is de-energized and becomes de-energized, the lower pedal that has moved forward into the product storage aisle is restricted from moving backwards, and the upper pedal is now in a state where it has moved backwards from the product storage aisle. This returns the device to the standby state described above.

In addition to the pedals, the product delivery device includes a sold-out detection lever and a sold-out detection switch. The sold-out detection lever is swingably disposed in an area above the upper pedal so as to move forward and backward with respect to the product storage passage, and is urged by the biasing means to move forward and backward into the product storage passage. ing. When there is a product in the product storage path, the sold-out detection lever moves backward from the product storage path against the biasing force of the biasing means.

The sold-out detection switch is linked to the sold-out detection lever, and is turned off when the sold-out detection lever moves backward from the product storage aisle, but when the sold-out detection lever advances and moves into the product storage aisle. It is in the on state. When turned on, this sold-out detection switch outputs a sold-out signal indicating that the product in the product storage path has been sold out.

Patent Document 1 describes a system in which the payout operation is divided into three periods based on the operation of a sold-out detection switch, and the number of products in stock is calculated based on the lengths of these three periods.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-110589

Incidentally, the sold-out detection switch of Patent Document 1 is turned off when a product is placed on the top surface of the lower pedal, and turned on when no product is placed on the top surface. Therefore, in the product dispensing device of Patent Document 1, the time point at which the sold-out detection switch is determined is used as the dividing point between the three periods, but after the lowest-ranked product is paid out, the next lowest-ranked product is When the product comes into contact with the top surface of the pedal, the time at which the sold-out detection switch is determined changes due to bounce of the product, which tends to cause errors. As a result, there is a limit to the improvement in accuracy in determining the number of products in stock based on time data using the sold-out detection switch.

The present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object of the present invention is to provide a vending machine that can improve the accuracy of determining the number of products in stock with a simple configuration.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides a lower pedal that is swingably disposed on a base in such a manner that its tip moves forward and backward with respect to a product storage passageway in which inserted products are stored along the vertical direction. and an upper pedal swingably disposed on the base in such a manner that its tip moves forward and backward with respect to the product storage passageway in an area above the lower pedal, and in a standby state, the upper pedal is While retracting from the product storage path, the lower pedal is moved forward into the product storage path, and the bottom pedal is in a standby position with the lowest product placed on the top surface, so that the product is directed downward. On the other hand, when driving the transport operation of the product based on a sales command, the upper pedal is advanced into the product storage passage and brought into contact with the second product from the bottom. A product unloading device that transports the lowest product downward by moving the lower pedal backward from the product storage path; and a waveform detection device that detects a time waveform of sound or vibration during the transport operation of the lowest product. and a first period from the sales command to the start of the advance movement of the lower pedal, and from the lowest position to the lower pedal from the start of the advance movement of the lower pedal, based on the time waveform. An intermediate period up to the time when the second product makes contact with the bottom pedal, and a second period from the time when the second product from the bottom comes into contact with the bottom pedal until the end of sales are determined, and the first period and the second product are calculated. a period calculation unit that calculates a calculation period by subtracting the second period from a value obtained by adding the intermediate period; and an inventory that estimates the number of products in stock in the product storage passage based on the relationship between the calculation period and the number of products in stock. The present invention is characterized by comprising a number estimating section.

The present invention also provides a lower pedal that is swingably disposed on a base in such a manner that its tip moves forward and backward with respect to a product storage passageway for vertically storing inserted products; an upper pedal that is swingably disposed on the base in such a manner that its tip moves forward and backward with respect to the product storage passage in an upper region, and in a standby state, the upper pedal retreats from the product storage passage; While moving, the lower pedal is advanced into the product storage passage, and the lower pedal takes a standby position with the lowest product placed on the upper surface, thereby preventing the product from moving downward. On the other hand, when driving the unloading operation of the product based on a sales command, the upper pedal is advanced into the product storage passage and is brought into contact with the second product from the bottom, while the lower pedal is moved toward the product storage path. a product unloading device that unloads the lowest ranked product downward by moving it backward from a storage passage; a waveform detection unit that detects a time waveform of sound or vibration during the unloading operation of the lowest ranked product; Based on the first period from the sales command to the start of the advance movement of the lower pedal, and the second lowest product from the bottom to the lower pedal from the start of the advance movement of the lower pedal, The intermediate period up to the point of contact and the second period from the time when the second product from the bottom touches the bottom pedal until the end of sales are calculated, and the first period and the intermediate period are added. a period calculation unit that calculates a calculation period by subtracting the second period from the value;
an integral calculation unit that calculates a time integral value of the time waveform; The present invention is characterized by comprising an inventory quantity estimating unit that estimates the quantity of products in stock.

Further, in the above invention, the present invention is characterized in that the waveform detection section includes a filter processing section that outputs a time waveform that has been subjected to filter processing to pass a predetermined frequency band among the detected time waveforms. do.

Further, in the above invention, the period calculation unit determines a provisional start point of the period when the slope of the amplitude of the time waveform with respect to time is a predetermined value or more, and sets the second provisional start point to the first point. It is characterized in that the end point of the period is determined, and the fourth tentative start point is determined as the start point of the second period.

Further, the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the waveform detection section is a vibration pickup sensor.

Further, in the above-mentioned invention, the present invention provides that the inventory quantity estimating unit detects passage of the product through the product carry-out port based on a whisker waveform generated in the time waveform detected by the waveform detection unit, and carries out the carry-out of the product. It is characterized by detecting the number of objects.

Further, in the above invention, the present invention is characterized in that, when the inventory quantity estimating unit is estimated to be 0, it outputs that the merchandise is sold out.

Further, in the above invention, the lower pedal has a distal end located above the standby position when no product is placed on the upper surface of the lower pedal when the product is moved into the product storage path. The product is in a non-standby position, and includes a sold-out detection switch that turns on and detects the non-standby position of the lower pedal after the sale ends, and during the first period, the sold-out detection switch is activated from the sales command. The second period is a period from when the sold-out detection switch is turned on for the first time until the sale ends.

According to the present invention, the accuracy of determining the number of products in stock can be improved with a simple configuration.

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional side view showing the internal structure of a vending machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the right side. FIG. 2 is a side view showing the product dispensing device shown in FIG. 1 when viewed from the right side. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the product dispensing device shown in FIG. 1 when viewed from the front right side. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the product dispensing device shown in FIG. 1 when viewed from the rear right side. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the first product delivery device shown in FIGS. 2 to 4 when viewed from the rear right side. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a main part of the first product discharging device shown in FIGS. 2 to 5 when viewed from the right. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a main part of the first product delivery device shown in FIGS. 2 to 5, viewed from the right. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a main part of the first product discharging device shown in FIGS. 2 to 5 when viewed from the right. FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the base of the first product delivery device shown in FIGS. 2 to 5. FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the bearing section and harness guide attached to the base shown in FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is a side view showing the main parts of the product dispensing device shown in FIGS. 2 to 4. FIG. 12 is a side view showing the relationship between the first sold-out link and the first sold-out detection switch when the lower pedal is in the product waiting position. FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing the relationship between the first sold-out link and the first sold-out detection switch when the lower pedal moves backward. FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view showing the main parts of the drive unit in the first product delivery device, as seen from the front right side. FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view showing the main parts of the drive unit in the first product delivery device, as seen from the rear left side. FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the second product delivery device shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, viewed from the front right side. FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the main parts of the second product discharging device shown in FIGS. 2 to 4 and 16 when viewed from the right. FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing the base of the second product delivery device shown in FIG. 16. FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing the bearing section and guide attached to the base shown in FIG. 18. FIG. 20 is a block diagram showing a characteristic control system of the product dispensing device. FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram showing the operation of the main parts of the drive unit when viewed from the front. FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing the operation of the main parts of the drive unit when viewed from the rear front. FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the procedure for carrying out products in the first product carrying out device. FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating the procedure for discharging products using the second product discharging device. FIG. 25 is a chart showing changes in the first time, second time, and third time in carrying out products. FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram illustrating period calculation by the period calculating section. FIG. 27 is a diagram showing the relationship between the calculation period and the number of products in stock. FIG. 28 is a block diagram showing a control system related to detecting the number of products in stock according to the first modification. FIG. 29 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of multiple regression analysis based on actual results. FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram illustrating period calculation by the period calculation unit of Modification 2. FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement of vibration pickup sensors. FIG. 32 is a schematic diagram showing the general structure of a condenser microphone. FIG. 33 is a diagram showing an example of a time waveform detected by a condenser microphone.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Embodiments of a vending machine according to the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

<Product delivery mechanism>
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional side view showing the internal structure of a vending machine 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the right side. The vending machine illustrated here sells products in a cooled or heated state, and includes a main body cabinet 1, an outer door 2, and an inner door 3.

The main body cabinet 1 is formed into a rectangular parallelepiped shape with an open front by appropriately combining a plurality of steel plates, and has a product storage 4 with a heat-insulating structure inside. The outer door 2 is for covering the front opening of the main cabinet 1, and is disposed on one side edge of the main cabinet 1 so as to be openable and closable. The front of the outer door 2 has a display window, product selection button, bill insertion slot, coin slot, return lever, integrated display, coin return slot, product takeout port 2a, etc. necessary for selling products. There are things set up. The inner door 3 is an insulating door that is divided into upper and lower halves to cover the front opening of the product storage 4, and the upper insulating door 3a is located on one side edge of the outer door 2 at a position inward of the outer door 2. The lower heat insulating door 3b is provided at one side edge of the main cabinet 1 so as to be openable and closable. In the lower part of the lower heat insulating door 3b of the inner door 3, a product exit 3c for transporting the product to the outside of the product storage 4 is provided.

Further, the vending machine 100 is provided with a chute 5 inside the product storage 4, and a temperature control unit 6 is provided in an area below the chute 5 (hereinafter also referred to as a "heat exchange area"). On the other hand, a product storage rack 10 is provided in an area above the shooter 5 (hereinafter also referred to as a "product storage area").

The chute 5 is a plate-like member for guiding the product taken out from the product storage rack 10 to the product exit 3c of the inner door 3, and is arranged in such a manner that it gradually slopes downward toward the front side. . Although not clearly shown in the figure, the chute 5 is provided with a large number of ventilation holes (not shown) that communicate between the heat exchange area and the product storage area.

The temperature control unit 6 is for maintaining the internal atmosphere of the product storage 4 at a desired temperature state, and includes an evaporator 6a of a refrigeration cycle, an electric heater 6b, and a blower fan 6c. In this temperature control unit 6, for example, when the blower fan 6c is driven while the refrigeration cycle is in operation, the air cooled in the evaporator 6a is sent upward through the ventilation hole of the chute 5, thereby reducing the product storage area. Can be maintained at low temperature. On the other hand, when the blower fan 6c is driven while the electric heater 6b is energized, the air heated by the electric heater 6b is sent upward through the ventilation hole of the chute 5, thereby maintaining the product storage area at a high temperature. I can do it. Note that the compressor, condenser, and expansion valve of the refrigeration cycle are all arranged in the machine room 7 outside the product storage 4, although they are not clearly shown in the figure.

The product storage racks 10 are arranged in three rows in the front and back, and a plurality of product storage racks 10 are arranged in a meandering manner along the vertical direction by disposing the passage component 12 between the pair of base side plates 11. (Two in the illustrated example) product storage passages 13 are provided, and a plurality of products are stored in the vertical direction inside these product storage passages 13 in a horizontal position. To explain in more detail, the passage component 12 is appropriately disposed on the front side and the rear side of the product storage passage 13 so as to face each other, and is fixed to the base side plate 11. As a result, in each product storage rack 10, two product storage passages 13 are provided adjacent to each other in the front and back. In the following, in one product storage rack 10, the product storage passage 13 on the front side is also referred to as the first product storage passage 13a, and the product storage passage 13 on the rear side is also referred to as the second product storage passage 13b.

Further, the passage component 12 is provided with a flapper which is not clearly shown in the figure. The flapper is swingably disposed on the passage component 12 so as to move forward and backward with respect to the product storage passage 13. This flapper is biased by a coil spring (not shown) and normally assumes a position in which it moves forward into the product storage passage 13. By coming into contact with the product passing through the product storage path 13, the device moves backward along the meandering product storage path 13 against the biasing force of the coil spring, thereby correcting the posture of the product. .

In the product storage rack 10, a top tray 14 is provided at the top of the product storage path 13, and a product dispensing device 20 is provided at the bottom of the product storage path 13.

The top tray 14 is constructed by bending a flat metal sheet, and is disposed between the base side plates 11 in such a manner that it gradually slopes downward from the front to the rear. The upper surface of the top tray 14 constitutes a product guide path 15 that guides products inserted through the input slot to the product storage path 13.

2 to 4 respectively show the product dispensing device 20 shown in FIG. 1, with FIG. 2 being a side view as seen from the right side, and FIG. 3 being a perspective view as seen from the front right side. FIG. 4 is a perspective view when viewed from the rear right side.

As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the product delivery device 20 includes one product delivery device (hereinafter also referred to as a first product delivery device) 20a and the other product delivery device (hereinafter also referred to as a second product delivery device) 20a. The first product carrying out device 20a and the second product carrying out device 20b are arranged back-to-back with each other. Note that FIGS. 2 to 4 show a state in which neither the first product delivery device 20a nor the second product delivery device 20b constituting the product delivery device 20 stores any products.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the first product delivery device 20a shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, viewed from the rear right side. In the following, the configuration of the first product carrying out device 20a will be explained, and then the second product carrying out device 20b will be explained.

6 to 8 are explanatory diagrams schematically showing main parts of the first product delivery device 20a shown in FIGS. 2 to 5, respectively, when viewed from the right. In the following description, the configuration of the first product delivery device 20a will be explained using FIGS. 6 to 8 as appropriate.

The first product carrying out device 20a is applied to the first product storage passage 13a, and is disposed at the lower part of the first product storage passage 13a. This first product carrying out device 20a stores the product in the first product storage passage 13a in the waiting state for carrying out the product by controlling the behavior of the product between it and the opposing aisle width regulating plate 16, and when driving the product, it stores the product in the first product storage passage 13a. The base 21 functions to transport the corresponding products one by one to the chute 5.

As shown in FIG. 9, the base 21 is constructed by cutting and bending a steel plate, and is disposed such that its surface faces the passage width defining plate 16. The base 21 has side walls 21a formed by bending both sides, and a first insertion hole 22 and a second insertion hole 23 formed in the middle portion. The peripheral edges of the first insertion hole 22 and the second insertion hole 23 are bent to form a flange in the same manner as the side wall 21a.

The first insertion hole 22 and the second insertion hole 23 are formed so as to be side by side with each other, and have the same vertical dimension. In the first insertion hole 22 and the second insertion hole 23, the first insertion hole 22 is located on the left side of the second insertion hole 23, and the left-right width of the first insertion hole 22 is the same as the left-right width of the second insertion hole 23. It is larger than the width. Further, the first insertion hole 22 and the second insertion hole 23 are through openings (a recess for retracting a lower pedal 28 and an upper pedal 29, which will be described later, into the base 21) that have a substantially rectangular shape as a whole. The upper end of the first insertion hole 22 projects to the left, and the upper end of the second insertion hole 23 projects to the right. A first left side bearing piece 22a is provided on the left side edge of the first insertion hole 22, a first right side bearing piece 22b is provided on the right side edge of the first insertion hole 22, and a first right side bearing piece 22b is provided on the right side edge of the first insertion hole 22. A second left side bearing piece 23a is provided on the left side edge of the second insertion hole 23, and a second right side bearing piece 23b is provided on the right side edge of the second insertion hole 23. Note that the first left bearing piece 22a and the second right bearing piece 23b correspond to flanges formed on the peripheries of the first insertion hole 22 and the second insertion hole 23. Further, the first right bearing piece 22b and the second left bearing piece 23a are formed integrally with the base 21, which fit and hold a bearing portion 24, which will be described later, and have a U-shape (discontinuous) in cross section. It is formed on the shaft insertion flange forming both U-shaped legs of the bearing holding part. Moreover, this bearing holding part has a function of maintaining the strength of the base 21 even when a large through opening consisting of the first insertion hole 22 and the second insertion hole 23, which have a generally rectangular shape as a whole, is formed in the base 21. has.

A bearing portion 24 and a harness guide 25 as shown in FIG. 10 are attached to the base 21 having such a configuration. The bearing portion 24 is made of a resin material or the like, and is fitted between the first right bearing piece 22b and the second left bearing piece 23a.

The harness guide 25 is made of a resin material or the like like the bearing part 24, and is fitted along the right side wall 21a of the base 21 in a manner adjacent to the second right bearing piece 23b. This harness guide 25 is for guiding a harness of an electrical component mounted on the first product carrying-out device 20a. Further, the harness guide 25 has a role as a guide member when the first product carrying out device 20a and the second product carrying out device 20b are held together back to back.

The harness guide 25 is provided with a first sold-out detection switch 26 and a second sold-out detection switch 27.

The first sold-out detection switch 26 is arranged so as to be lined up with the second sold-out detection switch 27, and is located on the front side of the second sold-out detection switch 27. The first sold-out detection switch 26 is a so-called push type switch, and includes a contact 26a that is biased to stand up by a spring (not shown). The first sold-out detection switch 26 is in an off state (second state) when the contact 26a is not pressed and sends an off signal to the payout control unit 60, which will be described later. When it is displaced against the biasing force of the spring, it becomes an on state (first state) and sends an on signal to the dispensing control section 60.

In the present embodiment, the first sold-out detection switch 26 is in an OFF state when the contact 26a is not pressed, and is in an ON state when the contact 26a is pressed and displaced. In the present invention, the first sold-out detection switch 26 may be in an on state when the contact 26a is not pressed, and may be in an off state when the contact 26a is pressed and displaced. .

The second sold-out detection switch 27 is located on the rear side of the first sold-out detection switch 26. This second sold-out detection switch 27 is a so-called push type switch, and includes a contact 27a that is biased to stand up by a spring (not shown). The second sold-out detection switch 27 is in an off state (second state) when the contact 27a is not pressed and sends an off signal to the payout control unit 60, which will be described later. When it is displaced against the biasing force of the spring, it becomes an on state (first state) and sends an on signal to the dispensing control section 60.

In addition, in this embodiment, the second sold-out detection switch 27 is in an OFF state when the contact 27a is not pressed, and is in an ON state when the contact 27a is pressed and displaced. In the present invention, the second sold-out detection switch 27 may be in an on state when the contact 27a is not pressed, and may be in an off state when the contact 27a is pressed and displaced. .

The base 21 is provided with a first swing support shaft 28a and a second swing support shaft 29a. The first swing support shaft 28a includes a first left side bearing piece 22a, a first right side bearing piece 22b, a second left side bearing piece 23a, a second right side bearing piece 23b, and a bearing section in a manner extending substantially horizontally. It is a shaft-shaped member that extends through each of the through holes 22a1, 22b1, 23a1, 23b1, and 24a formed in the shaft 24, and supports the lower pedal 28 at its intermediate portion. Further, a first sold-out link 30 is disposed at the right end portion of the first swing support shaft 28a.

The second swing support shaft 29a extends substantially horizontally in an area above the first swing support shaft 28a, and includes a first left side bearing piece 22a, a first right side bearing piece 22b, and a second left side bearing piece 22a. It is a shaft-shaped member that extends through each through hole 22a2, 22b2, 23b2, 23b2, 24b formed in the bearing piece 23a, the second right bearing piece 23b, and the bearing part 24, and the upper pedal 29 is installed in the middle part thereof. We support this.

The lower pedal 28 is a plate-like member, and is arranged in such a manner that it can swing around the central axis of the first swing support shaft 28a by inserting the first swing support shaft 28a into its base end. ing.

The tip of the lower pedal 28 extends radially outward of the first swing support shaft 28a, and when the lower pedal swings around the center axis of the first swing support shaft 28a, the lower pedal 28 is inserted into the first insertion hole 22. It is possible to move forward and backward into the first product storage passage 13a through the second insertion hole 23. In other words, the lower pedal 28 is arranged to be swingable so as to move forward and backward with respect to the first product storage passage 13a.

A lower pedal spring 28b is interposed between the lower pedal 28 and the base 21. The lower pedal spring 28b constantly biases the lower pedal 28 in the direction of movement toward the first product storage passage 13a. To explain in more detail, the lower pedal spring 28b moves the lower pedal 28 into a standby position (hereinafter referred to as a no-product standby position) such that the tip of the lower pedal 28 is located above the first swing support shaft 28a, as shown in FIG. posture (also referred to as a second standby posture). When a product is placed on the upper surface of the lower pedal 28, the lower pedal spring 28b is arranged so that the tip of the lower pedal 28 is at the same height level as the first swing support shaft 28a, as shown in FIG. The lower pedal 28 is placed in a standby position (hereinafter also referred to as a product present standby position (first standby position)) so that the lower pedal 28 is located at the same position.

As a result, when the lower pedal 28 is in the non-product waiting position, the tip end thereof is located higher than when it is in the product presence waiting position.

When the lower pedal 28 is in the non-product standby position, as shown in FIG. The first sold-out link 30 rotates about the first swing support shaft 28a, so that the first sold-out pressing section 33 presses the contact 26a of the first sold-out detection switch 26. As a result, in the first sold-out detection switch 26, the contact 26a is pressed and displaced forward against the biasing force of the spring, thereby turning on, and sending an on signal to the payout control unit 60. becomes.

On the other hand, when the lower pedal 28 is in the product waiting position, as shown in FIG. The first sold-out link 30 becomes free. As a result, in the first sold-out detection switch 26, the contact 26a is biased by the spring and takes an upright posture, thereby turning off, and sending an off signal to the payout control unit 60. . In other words, the first sold-out link 30 in the free state rotates about the first swing support shaft 28a as the first sold-out pressing portion 33 is pressed by the contactor 26a.

The lower pedal 28 includes a plate-shaped pedal main body portion 281 and a pair of guide portions 282. A pair of guide parts 282 are provided on the back side of the pedal main body part 281. Each guide part 282 is a plate-shaped member extending along the up-down direction, and is formed to face each other. A guide groove 283 is formed on opposing surfaces of each guide portion 282 that face each other.

The guide groove 283 is located at the lowest position when the lower pedal 28 is placed at the advanced position where the lower pedal 28 is moved the most with respect to the first product storage passage 13a (the state shown in FIG. The insertion part 283a into which the pedal operating shaft 361 of 36 is inserted is located at the uppermost position in the state (the state shown in FIG. A first guide part 283b and a second guide part 283c are connected so that the fitting part 283a and the abutting part 283d are continuous with the contact part 283d, which is located at the center and which the pedal operating shaft 361 of the rotation stopper 36 comes into contact with. It is equipped with

The first guide portion 283b is arranged diagonally upward so as to be spaced from the insertion portion 283a with respect to the base 21 when the lower pedal 28 is placed at the most advanced position (advance position) with respect to the first product storage passage 13a. The guide portion 282 is formed in such a manner that the guide portion 282 is inclined diagonally upwardly so as to approach the base 21 and reaches the contact portion 283d.

The second guide portion 283c is arranged diagonally so as to be separated from the contact portion 283d with respect to the base 21 when the lower pedal 28 is placed at the most advanced position (advanced position) with respect to the first product storage passage 13a. The guide portion 282 is formed in such a manner that it slopes downward and reaches the insertion portion 283a.

The length of the lower pedal 28 in the radial direction from the first swing support shaft 28a is equal to the passage width when the lower pedal 28 is located at the most advanced position (advanced position) with respect to the first product storage passage 13a. The length is set such that a gap smaller than the maximum width of the product with the small maximum width can be secured between the width and the regulation plate 16.

The upper pedal 29 is a plate-like member, and is attached to the base 21 in such a manner that it can swing around the central axis of the second swing support shaft 29a by inserting the second swing support shaft 29a through its base end. It is arranged.

The tip of the upper pedal 29 extends radially outward of the second swing support shaft 29a, and when the upper pedal 29 swings around the central axis of the second swing support shaft 29a, the upper pedal 29 is inserted into the first insertion hole 22. It is possible to move forward and backward into the first product storage passage 13a through the second insertion hole 23. In other words, the upper pedal 29 is swingably arranged to move forward and backward with respect to the first product storage passage 13a.

An upper pedal spring (not shown) is interposed between the upper pedal 29 and the base 21. The upper pedal spring always biases the upper pedal 29 in the direction in which it moves backward with respect to the first product storage passage 13a.

The upper pedal 29 is provided with a pressing slope 291, a recess 292, a stopper contact portion 293, and a protrusion 294. The pressing slope 291 is provided at the tip of the upper pedal 29, and when the upper pedal 29 is moved backward with respect to the first product storage passage 13a, the pressing slope 291 gradually lowers toward the first product storage passage 13a. This is a curved inclined surface formed in this manner. The recess 292 is provided on the back side of the upper pedal 29, and is a single recess extending substantially horizontally and opening on both side surfaces of the upper pedal 29. The stopper contact portion 293 is a portion that a stopper pin 34a (described later) comes into contact with, and is provided on the back surface of the upper pedal 29 so as to be inclined upwardly from the recess 292.

The protrusion 294 is provided at the base end of the upper pedal 29 so as to protrude toward the first product storage passage 13a.

The upper pedal 29 is biased to move backward into the first product storage passage 13a by the biasing force of the upper pedal spring, but due to the stopper pin 34a coming into contact with the recess 292, the upper pedal 29 moves backward into the first product storage passage 13a. In contrast, the initial position is set to a state in which it has moved backward.

When the upper pedal 29 is located at the most advanced position (advance position) with respect to the first product storage passage 13a (the state shown in FIG. 8), the upper pedal 29 moves vertically through the second swing support shaft 29a. It is leaning forward towards the surface. The length of the upper pedal 29 in the radial direction from the second swing support shaft 29a is smaller than the maximum width of the product having a small maximum width between the upper pedal 29 and the aisle width regulating plate 16 in the forward tilted state described above. The length is set to ensure a gap.

In the base 21, a stopper pin 34a, a pedal stopper pin 34b, and a stopper shaft 34c are installed between the bearing portion 24 and the second right bearing piece 23b.

The stopper pin 34a is a shaft-shaped member disposed approximately horizontally between the bearing portion 24 and the second right bearing piece 23b, and one end thereof is inserted into the stopper pin insertion hole 23b3 of the second right bearing piece 23b. The other end is inserted into the stopper pin insertion hole 24c1 of the bearing portion 24 exposed from the second left bearing piece 23a. This stopper pin 34a is coupled to a pedal link 35, and can move vertically inside the stopper pin insertion holes 23b3, 24c1 as the pedal link 35 moves vertically. Further, the stopper pin 34a is in contact with the recess 292 of the upper pedal 29 at the initial position.

The pedal stopper pin 34b is a shaft-shaped member disposed approximately horizontally between the bearing portion 24 and the second right bearing piece 23b, and one end thereof is connected to the pedal stopper pin support groove 24c2 ( Like the stopper pin insertion hole 24c1, it is a long groove extending vertically, and is inserted into the groove bottom (not visible in FIG. 6, as it is closed by the bottom of the groove, which is the extraction part of reference numeral 24c1), and the other end is inserted into the second right side. It is inserted into the pedal stopper pin support groove 23b4 of the bearing piece 23b. Note that an insertion groove 23a4 is provided in the second right bearing piece 23a so that the pedal stopper pin insertion hole 24c2 is exposed. This pedal stopper pin 34b is coupled to a pedal link 35, and can move in the vertical direction inside the pedal stopper pin support grooves 23b4, 24c2 as the pedal link 35 moves in the vertical direction. be. When the pedal link 35 is moved in the vertical direction, the peripheral surface of the pedal stopper pin 34b slides within the pedal stopper pin support grooves 23b4 and 24c2.

The stopper shaft 34c is a shaft-like member disposed approximately horizontally between the bearing portion 24 and the second right bearing piece 23b, and one end thereof is inserted into the stopper shaft insertion hole 24c3 of the bearing portion 24. , the other end is inserted into the through hole 23b5 of the second right bearing piece 23b. Incidentally, the second right bearing piece 23a is formed with an insertion hole for the stopper shaft 34c. This stopper shaft 34c supports a rotation stopper 36 at its intermediate portion.

The rotation stopper 36 is arranged between the bearing portion 24 and the second right bearing piece 23b in such a manner that the stopper shaft 34c is inserted through the insertion hole at the base end and is swingable around the central axis of the stopper shaft 34c. It is located in

The tip of the rotation stopper 36 extends radially outward of the stopper shaft 34c, and when it swings around the central axis of the stopper shaft 34c, it passes through the second insertion hole 23 into the first product storage passage 13a. It is possible to move forward and backward.

The rotation stopper 36 has a pedal operating shaft 361, which passes through a through hole 36a at the tip. The pedal operating shaft 361 is a shaft-like member disposed along a substantially horizontal direction, and both ends thereof are fitted into the guide groove 283 of the lower pedal 28 .

A pedal operation spring (not shown) is interposed between the rotation stopper 36 and the base 21. The pedal operation spring always biases the rotary stopper 36 in the direction of moving forward into the first product storage passage 13a.

The rotation stopper 36 is biased by a pedal operation spring in the direction of advancing toward the first product storage passage 13a, and the pedal stopper pin 34b enters the recess 36b of the rotation stopper 36. By coming into contact with the pedal stopper pin 34b, movement in the backward movement direction is restricted, and an initial position is set in a state in which the product moves forward with respect to the first product storage passage 13a. Further, since the lower pedal 28 is biased by the lower pedal spring 28b, the rotation stopper 36 has both ends of the pedal operation shaft 361 located in the fitting portion 283a of the guide groove 283, and the lower pedal 28 is The initial position is set at the position moved forward with respect to the storage passage 13a.

The pedal link 35 is a long plate-like member extending in the vertical direction, and has an upper portion bent forward and then extending upward. At the top of the pedal link 35, a contact piece 351 that extends rearward and then diagonally upward is provided, and a locking portion 352 that locks the link spring 35a is provided. . This link spring 35a is interposed between the pedal link 35 and the base 21, and always urges the pedal link 35 downward.

When the pedal link 35 is biased by the link spring 35a and disposed downward, the stopper pin 34a is disposed at the lower end of the stopper pin insertion holes 23b3, 24c1, and the lower end of the pedal stopper pin support grooves 23b4, 24c2. The pedal stopper pin 34b is disposed at. In this state, the recess 292 of the upper pedal 29 located at the retracted position is in contact with the stopper pin 34a. Furthermore, the rotation stopper 36 disposed at the advanced position is in contact with the pedal stopper pin 34b, and the backward movement of the rotation stopper 36 is restricted. Further, the pedal operating shaft 361 of the rotation stopper 36 placed in the advanced position is fitted into the fitting portion 283a of the lower pedal 28, thereby restricting the backward movement of the lower pedal 28 placed in the advanced position. There is.

On the other hand, when the pedal link 35 is disposed upward against the biasing force of the link spring 35a, the stopper pin 34a is disposed at the upper end of the stopper pin insertion holes 23b3 and 24c1, as shown in FIG. , and the pedal stopper pin 34b is disposed at the upper end of the pedal stopper pin support grooves 23b4 and 24c2. In this state, the stopper contact portion 293 of the upper pedal 29 contacts the stopper pin 34a, thereby restricting the backward movement of the upper pedal 29, and the upper pedal 29 moves forward against the biasing force of the upper pedal spring. and placed in the advancing position.

On the other hand, since the rotation stopper 36 is no longer restricted from moving backward by the pedal stopper pin 34b, the restriction from backward movement about the stopper shaft 34c is released. Here, the rotation stopper 36 is loaded with the load of the product that has come into contact with the lower pedal 28, which is maintained in the advanced position by the rotation stopper 36, and the rotation stopper 36 is no longer restricted from moving backward. As a result, the rotation stopper 36 starts to move backward. When the rotation stopper 36 starts to move backward, the pedal operation shaft 361 is disengaged from the fitting part 283a of the lower pedal 28, so the lower pedal 28 is allowed to move backward around the first swing support shaft 28a, and the product The load causes the pedal to move backward against the elastic urging force of the lower pedal spring 28b (see FIG. 8).

When the lower pedal 28 moves backward in this way, as shown in FIG. 1 sold out link 30 becomes free. As a result, in the first sold-out detection switch 26, the contact 26a is biased by the spring to take an upright posture, thereby maintaining the off state. That is, even when the lower pedal 28 moves backward, the first sold-out link 30 does not press the contact 26a of the first sold-out detection switch 26, as in the product waiting position.

The first product delivery device 20a having such a configuration includes a drive unit 40 in addition to the above configuration.

14 and 15 respectively show the main parts of the drive unit 40 in the first product delivery device 20a. FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view as seen from the right front, and FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view as seen from the left rear. FIG.

The drive unit 40 is disposed in the upper central region of the back side of the base 21. This drive unit 40 includes a unit base 41 attached to the back surface of the base 21.

The unit base 41 is made of, for example, a resin material, and is shaped like a box with an open rear surface. The rear opening of the unit base 41 is closed by attaching a resin unit cover 42 to form an accommodation space between the unit base 41 and the unit cover 42 . A motor 43, a gear member 44, a carrier switch 45, and a link lever 46 are housed in the housing space formed by the unit base 41 and the unit cover 42 in this manner.

The motor 43 serves as a drive source, and is a direct current motor that can rotate in forward and reverse directions and is driven in accordance with a command given from a dispensing control section 60, which will be described later. This motor 43 is disposed while being held by a motor holding portion 41a of the unit base 41.

The gear member 44 includes a worm gear 441, an intermediate gear 442, and an output gear 443. The worm gear 441 has a worm 441a and a worm wheel 441b.

The worm 441a has a cylindrical shape and is attached to the output shaft 43a of the motor 43. The worm wheel 441b includes a disk-shaped first worm wheel 441b1 and a disk-shaped second worm wheel 441b2.

The first worm wheel 441b1 has a rearwardly protruding shaft portion formed in the center thereof, and a gear portion having a plurality of teeth formed on the circumferential surface.

The second worm wheel 441b2 is located on the front side of the first worm wheel 441b1, and has a shaft portion whose central axis coincides with the center axis of the shaft portion of the first worm wheel 441b1, which projects forward. It is formed in such a manner that A gear portion consisting of a plurality of teeth is also formed on the circumferential surface of the second worm wheel 441b2.

In such a worm wheel 441b, the shaft-like part is inserted into the recesses 41b and 42b of the unit base 41 and the unit cover 42 with the gear part of the first worm wheel 441b1 meshing with the worm 441a. It is arranged to be rotatable around the central axis.

The intermediate gear 442 includes a disk-shaped first intermediate gear 442a and a disk-shaped second intermediate gear 442b. The first intermediate gear 442a has a rearwardly protruding shaft portion formed in the center thereof, and a gear portion having a plurality of teeth formed on the circumferential surface.

The second intermediate gear 442b is located on the rear side of the first intermediate gear 442a, and has a shaft portion whose central axis coincides with the central axis of the shaft portion of the first intermediate gear 442a, which projects forward. It is formed in such a manner that A gear portion consisting of a plurality of teeth is also formed on the circumferential surface of the second intermediate gear 442b.

The intermediate gear 442 has a shaft-shaped portion that is inserted into the recesses 41c and 42c of the unit base 41 and the unit cover 42 with the gear portion of the first intermediate gear 442a meshing with the gear portion of the second worm wheel 441b2. and is arranged rotatably around the central axis of the shaft-shaped portion.

The output gear 443 has a disk shape with a larger diameter than the worm wheel 441b and the intermediate gear 442. A gear portion consisting of a plurality of teeth is also formed on the circumferential surface of this output gear 443. Furthermore, a shaft-shaped portion that protrudes in the front-rear direction is formed in the center portion of the output gear 443. Further, the output gear 443 has a cam portion 443a formed on the front surface and a pressing piece 443b formed on the rear surface.

The cam portion 443a has an arcuate shape and is formed to protrude forward. The cam portion 443a is formed such that its arcuate length is large enough to hold the pedal link 35 in that state after the pedal link 35 is moved upward.

The pressing piece 443b has a substantially V-shape, and is formed in such a manner that it protrudes rearward on a rear surface opposite to the cam portion 443a.

In such an output gear 443, the shaft-like part is inserted into the recesses 41d and 42d of the unit base 41 and the unit cover 42 with the gear part meshing with the gear part of the second intermediate gear 442b, so that the shaft-like part is inserted into the recesses 41d and 42d of the unit base 41 and the unit cover 42. It is arranged to be rotatable around the central axis.

The carrier switch 45 is a so-called push type switch and includes a contactor 45a. This carrier switch 45 is arranged on the unit base 41 in a state where it is held slightly above the area where the output gear 443 is arranged. This carrier switch 45 is turned on when the contact 45a is pressed, and gives this to the dispensing control unit 60 as an on signal, while it is turned off when the contact 45a is not pressed. , this fact is given to the payout control unit 60 as an off signal.

The link lever 46 includes a first link lever 461 and a second link lever 462. The first link lever 461 is made of, for example, a resin material, and has a through hole 461a1 formed in a base end portion 461a. The first link lever 461 has a hook shape in which a distal end portion 461b extends diagonally downward to the right from the base end portion 461a and then curves diagonally upward to the right. Further, the base end portion 461a of the first link lever 461 is provided with a locking portion 461c. The locking portion 461c is an elastic plate-like member that is elastically deformable and extends downward from the left end portion of the base end portion 461a.

In the first link lever 461, the first link shaft 42e provided in the unit cover 42 is inserted into the through hole 461a1 of the base end 461a, so that the center of the first link shaft 42e is inserted in the front side of the output gear 443. It is arranged so that it can rotate around an axis. In this case, the first link lever 461 passes through a right opening (not shown) formed by the unit base 41 and the unit cover 42, and the tip portion 461b is located outside the unit base 41 and the unit cover 42. ing. The posture of the first link lever 461 in its normal state is determined by the engagement of the locking portion 461c with the left side edge 471 of the right side opening.

The second link lever 462 is made of, for example, a resin material, and has a through hole 462a1 formed in a base end portion 462a. The second link lever 462 has a hook shape in which a distal end portion 462b extends diagonally downward to the left from the base end portion 462a and then curves diagonally upward to the left. Further, the front end portion 462b of the second link lever 462 has a larger longitudinal width than the front end portion 461b of the first link lever 461. Furthermore, a locking portion 462c is provided at the base end portion 462a of the second link lever 462. The locking portion 462c is an elastic plate-like member that is elastically deformable and extends downward from the right end portion of the base end portion 462a.

In the second link lever 462, the second link shaft 42f provided in the unit cover 42 is inserted into the through hole 462a1 of the base end 462a, so that the center of the second link shaft 42f is inserted in the front side of the output gear 443. It is arranged so that it can rotate around an axis. In this case, the second link lever 462 passes through a left opening (not shown) formed by the unit base 41 and the unit cover 42, and the tip portion 462b is located outside the unit base 41 and the unit cover 42. ing. The posture of the second link lever 462 in its normal state is determined by the locking portion 462c coming into contact with the right side edge 472 of the left side opening.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the second product delivery device 20b shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, viewed from the front right side. FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a main part of the second product discharging device 20b shown in FIGS. 2 to 4 and 16 when viewed from the right. It should be noted that most of the components of the second product carry-out device 20b are common to those of the first product carry-out device 20a, and the front and back directions of the components are different from those of the first product carry-out device 20a. The left and right directions are opposite. Therefore, in the description of the second product carry-out device 20b, illustrations will be omitted as appropriate, and the components common to the first product carry-out device 20a among the components of the second product carry-out device 20b will be explained as follows. A simple explanation will be provided by adding "'" to the reference numeral for the device 20a.

The second product carrying out device 20b is applied to the second product storage passage 13b, and is disposed at the lower part of the second product storage passage 13b. The second product carrying out device 20b stores the product in the second product storage passage 13b in the waiting state for carrying out the product by controlling the behavior of the product between it and the opposing aisle width regulating plate 17, and when the second product carrying out device 20b is driven. It functions to carry out the corresponding products one by one to the chute 5, and is equipped with a base 21'.

As shown in FIG. 18, the base 21' is constructed by cutting and bending a steel plate, and is disposed such that its surface faces the passage width defining plate 17. The base 21' has side walls 21a' formed by bending both sides, and a first insertion hole 22' and a second insertion hole 23' formed in the middle part. The peripheral edges of the first insertion hole 22' and the second insertion hole 23' are bent to form flanges in the same manner as the side wall 21a'.

The first insertion hole 22' and the second insertion hole 23' are formed so as to be side by side with each other, and have the same vertical dimension. In these first insertion hole 22' and second insertion hole 23', the first insertion hole 22' is located on the right side of the second insertion hole 23', and the horizontal width of the first insertion hole 22' is the second insertion hole 22'. It is larger than the horizontal width of the insertion hole 23'. In addition, the first insertion hole 22' and the second insertion hole 23' are through openings (recessed portions in which a lower pedal 28' and an upper pedal 29', which will be described later, are retracted into the base 21') each having a substantially rectangular shape as a whole. ), the upper end of the first insertion hole 22' projects to the right, and the upper end of the second insertion hole 23' projects to the left. A first right bearing piece 22a' is provided on the right edge of the first insertion hole 22', and a first left bearing piece 22b' is provided on the left side edge of the first insertion hole 22'. A second right side bearing piece 23a' is provided on the right edge of the second insertion hole 23', and a second left side bearing piece 23b' is provided on the left side edge of the second insertion hole 23'. Note that the first left bearing piece 22b' and the second right bearing piece 23a' correspond to flanges formed at the periphery of the first insertion hole 22' and the second insertion hole 23'. Further, the first left bearing piece 22b' and the second right bearing piece 23a' are integrally formed with a base 21' that fits and holds a bearing part 24', which will be described later, and are U-shaped (not square) in cross section. It is formed on a shaft insertion flange that forms both U-shaped legs of a bearing holding portion that is formed continuously. In addition, this bearing holding portion also provides strength to the base 21' even when a large through opening consisting of the first through hole 22' and the second through hole 23', which have a generally rectangular shape as a whole, is formed in the base 21'. It has the function of maintaining

A bearing portion 24' and a guide 48 as shown in FIG. 19 are mounted on the base 21' having such a configuration. The bearing portion 24' is made of a resin material or the like, and is fitted between the first left bearing piece 22b' and the second right bearing piece 23a'. The guide 48 is made of a resin material or the like similarly to the bearing portion 24', and is fitted into the base 21' in a manner adjacent to the second left bearing piece 23b'.

The base 21' is provided with a first swing support shaft 28a' and a second swing support shaft 29a'. The first swing support shaft 28a' includes a first right bearing piece 22a', a first left bearing piece 22b', a second right bearing piece 23a', and a second left bearing piece in a manner extending substantially horizontally. 23b' and the bearing part 24', the lower pedal 28' is installed in the middle part of the shaft-shaped member. I support it.

Further, a second sold-out link 50 is disposed at the right end portion of the first swing support shaft 28a'. As shown in FIG. 11, the second sold-out link 50 includes a second sold-out base portion 51, a second sold-out contact portion 52, and a second sold-out pressing portion 53. The second sold-out base 51 is formed by, for example, connecting the lower ends of two C-shaped disc-shaped parts 511, 512 with a connecting part 513, and each of the disc-shaped parts 511, 512 Through holes 511a and 512a are formed to pass through the right end portion of the first swing support shaft 28a'. The second sold-out contact portion 52 extends leftward from the front side portion of the disk-shaped portion 512 on the left side of the second sold-out base 51 . The second sold-out contact portion 52 is provided on the left side of the first sold-out contact portion 32 constituting the first sold-out link 30, and is configured not to interfere with each other. The second sold-out pressing portion 53 is formed to protrude rightward from the lower side portion of the disk-shaped portion 511 on the right side of the second sold-out base 51. The through holes 511a and 512a formed in the second sold-out base 51 are formed larger than the first swing support shaft 28a', so that the second sold-out link 50 can be freely connected to the first swing support shaft 28a'. It is configured so that it can move.

The second swing support shaft 29a' extends substantially horizontally in an area above the first swing support shaft 28a', and includes a first right bearing piece 22a' and a first left bearing piece 22b'. , a shaft installed through each through hole 22a2', 22b2', 23b2', 23b2', 24b' formed in the second right bearing piece 23a', the second left bearing piece 23b', and the bearing part 24'. The upper pedal 29' is supported in the middle part of the upper pedal 29'.

The lower pedal 28' is a plate-like member, and is configured to be able to swing around the central axis of the first swing support shaft 28a' by inserting the first swing support shaft 28a' through the base end thereof. It is arranged.

The tip of the lower pedal 28' extends radially outward of the first swing support shaft 28a', and when the lower pedal 28' swings around the central axis of the first swing support shaft 28a', It is possible to move forward and backward into the second product storage passage 13b through the insertion hole 22' and the second insertion hole 23'. In other words, the lower pedal 28' is arranged to be swingable so as to move forward and backward with respect to the second product storage passage 13b.

A lower pedal spring 28b' is interposed between the lower pedal 28' and the base 21'. The lower pedal spring 28b' constantly biases the lower pedal 28' in the direction of movement toward the second product storage passage 13b. To explain in more detail, the lower pedal spring 28b' moves the lower pedal 28' to the standby position (hereinafter referred to as "standby position") such that the tip of the lower pedal 28' is located above the first swing support shaft 28a' as shown in FIG. , the product is placed in a non-standby position (also referred to as a second standby position). When a product is placed on the upper surface of the lower pedal 28', the lower pedal spring 28b' is arranged so that the tip of the lower pedal 28' is located at the same height level as the first swing support shaft 28a'. This is to put the lower pedal 28' into a standby position (hereinafter also referred to as a standby position with product present (first standby position)).

As a result, when the lower pedal 28' is in the no-item waiting position, the tip end thereof is located higher than when it is in the waiting position with goods.

When the lower pedal 28' is in the non-product standby position, as shown in FIG. , the second sold-out link 50 rotates about the first swing support shaft 28a', so that the second sold-out pressing portion 53 presses the contact 27a of the second sold-out detection switch 27. As a result, in the second sold-out detection switch 27, the contact 27a is pressed and displaced backward against the biasing force of the spring, so that the second sold-out detection switch 27 is turned on and sends an on-signal to the payout control unit 60. becomes.

On the other hand, when the lower pedal 28' is in the product waiting position, the base end of the lower pedal 28' is separated from the second sold-out contact portion 52 of the second sold-out link 50, and as a result, the second sold-out link 50 is in a free state. As a result, in the second sold-out detection switch 27, the contact 27a is biased by the spring to take an upright position, thereby turning off, and sending an off signal to the payout control unit 60. . In other words, the second sold-out link 50 in a free state rotates about the first swing support shaft 28a' as the second sold-out pressing part 53 is pressed by the contact 27a. .

The lower pedal 28' includes a plate-shaped pedal body 281' and a pair of guide parts 282'. A pair of guide parts 282' are provided on the back side of the pedal body part 281'. Each guide portion 282' is a plate-shaped member extending in the vertical direction, and is formed to face each other. Guide grooves (not shown) are formed on mutually opposing surfaces of each guide portion 282'.

The guide groove is located at the lowest position when the lower pedal 28' is placed at the advanced position where the lower pedal 28' is moved the most with respect to the second product storage passage 13b, and the guide groove is located at the lowermost position, and is connected to the pedal operating shaft ( (not shown) is inserted into the insertion part, and the rotation stopper 36 is located at the uppermost position in a state in which the lower pedal 28' is placed at the retracted position where the lower pedal 28' is retracted the most with respect to the second product storage passage 13b. A first guide part and a second guide part are provided, which are connected to each other so that the fitting part and the contact part are continuous with each other.

The first guide part is arranged diagonally upward so as to be spaced from the insertion part with respect to the base 21' when the lower pedal 28' is placed at the most advanced position (advance position) with respect to the second product storage passage 13b. The guide portion 282' is formed in such a manner that the guide portion 282' is inclined diagonally upward so as to be close to the base 21' and reaches the contact portion.

The second guide part is arranged diagonally so as to be spaced apart from the contact part with respect to the base 21' when the lower pedal 28' is placed at the most advanced position (advanced position) with respect to the second product storage passage 13b. The guide portion 282' is formed in such a manner that it slopes downward and reaches the insertion portion.

The length of the lower pedal 28' in the radial direction from the first swing support shaft 28a' is as follows when the lower pedal 28' is located at the most advanced position (advanced position) with respect to the second product storage passage 13b. The length is set such that a gap smaller than the maximum width of the product having a small maximum width can be secured between the passage width regulating plate 17 and the passage width defining plate 17.

The upper pedal 29' is a plate-like member, and is configured to be able to swing around the central axis of the second swing support shaft 29a' by inserting the second swing support shaft 29a' through the base end thereof. It is arranged on the base 21'.

The tip of the upper pedal 29' extends radially outward of the second swing support shaft 29a', and when the upper pedal 29' swings around the central axis of the second swing support shaft 29a', It is possible to move forward and backward into the second product storage passage 13b through the insertion hole 22' and the second insertion hole 23'. In other words, the upper pedal 29' is arranged to be swingable so as to move forward and backward with respect to the second product storage passage 13b.

An upper pedal spring (not shown) is interposed between the upper pedal 29' and the base 21'. The upper pedal spring always biases the upper pedal 29' in a direction in which the upper pedal 29' moves backward with respect to the second product storage passage 13b.

The upper pedal 29' is provided with a pressing slope 291', a recess 292', a stopper abutting part 293', and a projection 294'. The pressing inclined surface 291' is provided at the tip of the upper pedal 29', and when the upper pedal 29' is moved backward with respect to the second product storage passage 13b, the pressing slope 291' is directed toward the second product storage passage 13b. It is a curved slope formed in such a manner that it gradually becomes lower. The recess 292' is provided on the back side of the upper pedal 29', and is a single recess extending substantially horizontally and opening on both side surfaces of the upper pedal 29'. The stopper abutting portion 293' is a portion abutted by a stopper pin, which will be described later, and is provided on the back surface of the upper pedal 29' so as to be inclined above the recess 292'.

The protrusion 294' is provided at the base end of the upper pedal 29' so as to protrude toward the second product storage passage 13b.

This upper pedal 29' is biased to move backward into the second product storage passage 13b by the biasing force of the upper pedal spring, but when the stopper pin contacts the recess 292', the second product storage passage 13b The initial position is set to a state in which the object has moved backward relative to the object.

When the upper pedal 29' is located at the most advanced position (advance position) with respect to the second product storage passage 13b, the upper pedal 29' is positioned forward relative to a vertical plane passing through the second swing support shaft 29a'. It is in a tilted position. The length of the upper pedal 29' in the radial direction from the second swing support shaft 29a' is greater than the maximum width of the product with the smaller maximum width between the upper pedal 29' and the passage width regulating plate 17 in the forward tilted state described above. The length is also set to ensure a small gap.

In the base 21', a stopper pin (not shown), a pedal stopper pin 34b', and a stopper shaft 34c' are installed between the bearing portion 24' and the second left bearing piece 23b'.

The stopper pin is a shaft-shaped member disposed substantially horizontally between the bearing portion 24' and the second left bearing piece 23b'. This stopper pin is coupled to the pedal link 35' and can move in the vertical direction as the pedal link 35' moves in the vertical direction. Further, the stopper pin is in contact with the recess 292' of the upper pedal 29' at the initial position.

The pedal stopper pin 34b' is a shaft-shaped member disposed substantially horizontally between the bearing portion 24' and the second left bearing piece 23b'. This pedal stopper pin 34b' is coupled to a pedal link 35', and is movable in the vertical direction as the pedal link 35' moves in the vertical direction.

The stopper shaft 34c' is a shaft-shaped member disposed along the substantially horizontal direction between the bearing portion 24' and the second left bearing piece 23b', and supports the rotation stopper 36' in its intermediate portion. ing.

The rotation stopper 36' is configured such that the stopper shaft 34c' is inserted into the insertion hole at the base end thereof and is swingable about the central axis of the stopper shaft 34c' between the bearing portion 24' and the second left bearing piece. 23b'.

The tip of the rotation stopper 36' extends radially outward of the stopper shaft 34c', and when the rotation stopper 36' swings around the central axis of the stopper shaft 34c', it passes through the second insertion hole 23' and into the second It is possible to move forward and backward into the product storage passage 13b.

This rotation stopper 36' has a pedal operating shaft 361' (see FIG. 4) that passes through a through hole (not shown) at the tip. The pedal operating shaft 361' is a shaft-like member arranged along a substantially horizontal direction, and both ends thereof are fitted into the guide grooves of the lower pedal 28'.

A pedal operation spring (not shown) is interposed between the rotation stopper 36' and the base 21'. The pedal operation spring always biases the rotary stopper 36' in the direction of advancing toward the second product storage passage 13b.

The rotation stopper 36' is biased by a pedal operation spring in the direction of advancing toward the second product storage passage 13b, and the pedal stopper pin 34b is inserted into the recessed portion 36b' of the rotation stopper 36'. ′ enters and comes into contact with the pedal stopper pin 34b′, thereby restricting movement in the backward movement direction, and the initial position is set in the state in which the product moves forward with respect to the second product storage passage 13b. There is. Further, since the lower pedal 28' is biased by the lower pedal spring 28b', the rotation stopper 36' has both ends of the pedal operating shaft 361' located in the fitting portion of the guide groove, and the lower pedal 28' The initial position is set at the position moved toward the second product storage passage 13b.

The pedal link 35' is a long plate-like member extending in the vertical direction, and has an upper portion bent rearward and then extending upward. A contact piece 351' that extends forward and then diagonally upward is provided on the upper part of the pedal link 35', and a locking part 352' that locks the link spring 35a' is provided. It is provided. This link spring 35a' is interposed between the pedal link 35' and the base 21', and always urges the pedal link 35' downward.

When the pedal link 35' is biased by the link spring 35a' and disposed downward, the recess 292' of the upper pedal 29' disposed at the retracted position is in contact with the stopper pin. Furthermore, the rotation stopper 36' disposed at the advanced position is in contact with the pedal stopper pin 34b', and the backward movement of the rotation stopper 36' is restricted. Further, the pedal operation shaft 361' of the rotary stopper 36' placed in the advanced position is fitted into the fitting part of the lower pedal 28', thereby allowing the lower pedal 28' placed in the advanced position to move backward. regulated.

On the other hand, when the pedal link 35' is disposed upwardly against the biasing force of the link spring 35a', the stopper contact portion 293' of the upper pedal 29' comes into contact with the stopper pin, so that the upper pedal The backward movement of the upper pedal 29' is restricted, and the upper pedal 29' moves forward against the biasing force of the upper pedal spring and is placed at the advanced position.

On the other hand, since the rotation stopper 36' is no longer restricted from moving backward by the pedal stopper pin 34b', the restriction from backward movement about the stopper shaft 34c' is released. Here, the rotation stopper 36' is loaded with the load of the product that has come into contact with the lower pedal 28', which is maintained in the advanced position by the rotation stopper 36', and the rotation stopper 36' restricts the backward movement. As a result of this release, the rotation stopper 36' starts to move backward. When the rotation stopper 36' starts to move backward, the pedal operation shaft 361' is disengaged from the fitting part 283a of the lower pedal 28', so the lower pedal 28' starts moving backward around the first swing support shaft 28a'. If allowed, the product will move backward against the elastic biasing force of the lower pedal spring 28b' due to the load of the product.

When the lower pedal 28' moves backward in this way, the base end of the lower pedal 28' separates from the second sold-out contact portion 52 of the second sold-out link 50, and as a result, the second sold-out link 50 is in a free state. As a result, in the second sold-out detection switch 27, the contact 27a is biased by the spring to take an upright posture, thereby maintaining the off state. That is, even when the lower pedal 28' moves backward, the second sold-out link 50 does not press the contact 27a of the second sold-out detection switch 27, as in the product waiting position.

The product delivery device 20 is constructed by holding the first product delivery device 20a and the second product delivery device 20b having the above-described configuration back to back with the harness guide 25 as a guide member. In this case, the first link lever 461 constituting the drive unit 40 has a distal end located below the abutting piece 351 of the pedal link 35, and the second link lever 462 has a distal end located below the contact piece 351 of the pedal link 35. It is located below the contact piece 351' of the link 35'.

FIG. 20 is a block diagram showing a characteristic control system of the product dispensing device 20. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 20, the product dispensing device 20 includes a dispensing control section 60.

The dispensing control unit 60 controls the operation of the product dispensing device 20 in accordance with the programs and data stored in the memory 57, and can communicate with the vending machine control unit 101 that controls the vending operation of the vending machine 100. It is something. This payout control section 60 includes an input processing section 61, a motor drive processing section 62, and an output processing section 63.

The input processing section 61 performs input processing of commands and signals given from the vending machine control section 101, the first sold-out detection switch 26, the second sold-out detection switch 27, or the carrier switch 45. The motor drive processing section 62 provides a drive command or a drive stop command to the motor 43 to drive or stop the motor 43. The output processing section 63 outputs a command signal to the vending machine control section 101. In this embodiment, the dispensing control unit 60 will be described as being independent from the vending machine control unit 101; however, in this embodiment, the dispensing control unit 60 is incorporated into the vending machine control unit 101. Good too.

In the product dispensing device 20 configured as described above, the state in the standby state is as follows. Note that, in the following description, the products stored in the first product storage passage 13a are also referred to as "first products", and the products stored in the second product storage passage 13b are also referred to as "second products".

In the drive unit 40 provided in the first product delivery device 20a, the cam portion 443a and the pressing piece 443b of the output gear 443 are located at the uppermost position, and the pressing piece 443b presses the contact 45a of the carrier switch 45. ing. In this case, the carrier switch 45 is turned on. In such a standby state, the tip 461b of the first link lever 461 constituting the drive unit 40 is in a position spaced downward from the contact piece 351 of the pedal link 35, and the tip 462b of the second link lever 462 is in a position separated from the contact piece 351 of the pedal link 35. It is located at a position spaced downward from the contact piece 351' of the pedal link 35'.

Therefore, in the first product discharging device 20a, the pedal link 35 is disposed downward, as shown in FIG. Further, the product placed in the first product storage passage 13a places the product on the upper surface of the lower pedal 28, so that the lower pedal 28 is in the product waiting position, and the upper pedal 29 is in the first product storage position. It is in a posture in which it has moved backward from the passage 13a (see (a) in FIG. 23). As described above, since the lower pedal 28 is in the product waiting position, the first sold-out detection switch 26 is in the off state with the contact 26a standing up.

In addition, in the second product carrying out device 20b, the pedal link 35' is disposed downward, the lower pedal 28' is in the product waiting position, and the upper pedal 29' is in the second product storage path. 13b (see FIG. 24(a)). Since the lower pedal 28' is in the product waiting position, the second sold-out detection switch 27 is in the off state with the contact 27a standing up.

In such a product dispensing device 20, when the dispensing control section 60 inputs and processes the dispensing command for the first product given from the vending machine control section 101 through the input processing section 61, the dispensing control section 60 inputs and processes the dispensing command for the first product given from the vending machine control section 101 through the input processing section 61. A drive command is given to drive the motor 43 in forward rotation.

When the motor 43 is driven to rotate normally in this manner, the output gear 443 to which the driving force of the motor 43 is transmitted via the worm gear 441 and the intermediate gear 442 rotates in a clockwise direction when viewed from the front.

When the output gear 443 rotates clockwise when viewed from the front, the pressing piece 443b of the output gear 443 separates from the contact 45a of the carrier switch 45. As a result, the contact 45a of the carrier switch 45 is released from the pressed state, switched from the on state to the off state, and gives an off signal to the dispensing control section 60.

When the cam portion 443a contacts the base end portion 461a of the first link lever 461 from above due to the rotation of the output gear 443, the first link lever 461 rotates counterclockwise when viewed from the front. When the first link lever 461 rotates counterclockwise, the tip portion 461b moves upward. As the tip portion 461b moves upward in this manner, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, it comes into contact with the abutting piece 351 of the pedal link 35 and presses the pedal against the biasing force of the link spring 35a. The link 35 can be moved upward by a predetermined distance, and the pedal link 35 can be kept moved upward by a predetermined distance while the cam portion 443a is in sliding contact with the base end portion 461a. can.

In this case, when the first link lever 461 comes into sliding contact with the cam portion 443a, the surface (A) including the portion that comes into sliding contact with the cam portion 443a is aligned with its own central axis (the central axis of the first link shaft 42e). It is adjusted to be substantially orthogonal to a plane (b) that includes the stop axis of the output gear 443.

As the pedal link 35 moves upward, the stopper pin 34a moves upward from the lower end of the stopper pin insertion holes 23b3, 24c1, and the pedal stopper pin 34b moves upward from the lower end of the pedal stopper pin support grooves 23b4, 24c2. move upwards.

At this time, the stopper pin 34a moves upward while coming into contact with the edge wall of the recess 292 of the upper pedal 29, so that the upper pedal 29 initially moves against the biasing force of the upper pedal spring, as shown in FIG. 23(b). Advance and move from position. This forward movement of the upper pedal 29 is performed by upward movement of the stopper pin 34a. Then, when the stopper pin 34a reaches the upper end of the stopper pin insertion holes 23b3 and 24c1, it abuts against the stopper contact portion 293 to restrict the upper pedal 29 from retracting.

Then, the upper pedal 29 that has moved forward comes into contact with the second first product from the lowest position (hereinafter also referred to as the next product), and prevents the next product from moving downward.

On the other hand, since the rotation stopper 36 is subject to the load of the product that has come into contact with the lower pedal 28 that is maintained in the advanced position, the restriction on backward movement is released by the upward movement of the pedal stopper pin 34b. As a result, the rotation stopper 36 starts to move backward.

When the rotation stopper 36 starts to move backward in this way, the pedal operating shaft 361 comes out of the fitting part 283a, and the lower pedal 28 starts to move backward against the biasing force of the lower pedal spring 28b due to the weight of the product. The pedal operating shaft 361 of the rotation stopper 36 that has come out of the fitting portion 283a moves along the first guide portion 283b toward the position where the first guide portion 283b and the second guide portion 283c intersect.

After this, as shown in FIG. 23(c), the lower pedal 28 moves backward due to the weight of the lowest product, allowing the lowest product to move downward, and the lowest product is carried out downward. (See Figure 8). The transported product is guided to the product delivery port 3c through the chute 5, and is then ready to be taken out via the product removal port 2a.

Here, when the lowest product passes through the lower pedal 28, the lower pedal 28 is moved toward the advanced position by the elastic biasing force of the lower pedal spring 28b, and the rotation stopper 36 is also moved by the elastic biasing force of the pedal operation spring. Move towards the advance position. When the lower pedal 28 and rotation stopper 36 move toward the advanced position, the pedal operating shaft 361, which was held at the intersection of the first guide part 283b and the second guide part 283c, moves toward the insertion part 283a. 2 along the guide portion 283c, and the lower pedal 28 and rotation stopper 36 return to the extended position.

During this time, the pedal link 35 moves upward, the stopper pin 34a is located at the upper end of the stopper pin insertion holes 23b3, 24c1, and the pedal stopper pin 34b is located at the upper end of the pedal stopper pin support grooves 23b4, 24c2. become.

Thereafter, when the cam portion 443a and the base end portion 462a are released from contact with each other due to the rotation of the output gear 443, the pedal link 35 is urged by the link spring 35a and moves downward.

Due to this downward movement of the pedal link 35, the stopper pin 34a moves downward from the upper end of the stopper pin insertion holes 23b3, 24c1, and the pedal stopper pin 34b moves downward from the upper end of the pedal stopper pin support grooves 23b4, 24c2. Move to.

When the pedal stopper pin 34b moves to the lower end of the pedal stopper pin support grooves 23b4, 24c2, the pedal stopper pin 34b comes into contact with the recess 36b on the back side of the rotation stopper 36 which has returned to the advanced position. As a result, the movement in the backward movement direction is restricted, and as shown in FIG. Return to posture. As a result, the first sold-out detection switch 26 is switched from the off state to the on state, and gives an on signal to the payout control section 60.

On the other hand, the upper pedal 29 is biased by the upper pedal spring and moves backward as the stopper pin 34a moves downward. As a result, the next product is allowed to move downward, and then the next product comes into contact with the lower pedal 28 that has moved forward and is restricted from moving downward. 28 shifts to the product presence standby position and returns to the standby state.

In the drive unit 40, as the output gear 443 rotates in the clockwise direction when viewed from the front, the cam portion 443a subsequently comes into contact with the base end portion 462a of the second link lever 462. In this case, the second link lever 462 is restricted from rotating around the central axis because the locking portion 462c is in contact with the right edge 472 of the left opening. Therefore, the locking portion 462c is elastically deformed to allow the base end portion 462a to approach the locking portion 462c, and does not inhibit movement of the cam portion 443a due to rotation of the output gear 443.

Then, when the cam portion 443a returns to the standby position due to the rotation of the output gear 443, the pressing piece 443b presses the contact 45a of the carrier switch 45, and the carrier switch 45 is switched from the off state to the on state, and an on signal is generated. is given to the payout control unit 60. Immediately after the pressing piece 443b presses the contact 45a of the carrier switch 45, the cam part 443a comes off from the base end 462a of the second link lever 462, and the second link lever 462 is returned to its original state by the locking part 462c. Return.

Thereafter, the dispensing control unit 60 issues a drive stop command to the motor 43 through the motor drive processing unit 62 to stop the motor 43 from driving.

On the other hand, when the dispensing control unit 60 inputs and processes the dispensing command for the second product given from the vending machine control unit 101 through the input processing unit 61, the product dispensing device 20 outputs the command to the motor 43 through the motor drive processing unit 62. A drive command is given to drive the motor 43 in the reverse direction.

When the motor 43 is driven in the reverse direction in this manner, the output gear 443 to which the driving force of the motor 43 is transmitted via the worm gear 441 and the intermediate gear 442 rotates in a counterclockwise direction when viewed from the front.

When the output gear 443 rotates counterclockwise when viewed from the front, the pressing piece 443b of the output gear 443 separates from the contact 45a of the carrier switch 45. As a result, the contact 45a of the carrier switch 45 is released from the pressed state, switched from the on state to the off state, and gives an off signal to the dispensing control section 60.

When the cam portion 443a contacts the base end portion 462a of the second link lever 462 from above due to the rotation of the output gear 443, the second link lever 462 rotates in a clockwise direction when viewed from the front. When the second link lever 462 rotates clockwise, the tip 462b moves upward. As the tip portion 462b moves upward in this manner, it comes into contact with the abutment piece 351' of the pedal link 35', and the pedal link 35' is directed upward against the biasing force of the link spring 35a'. The pedal link 35' can be moved by a predetermined distance by a predetermined distance, and the pedal link 35' can be kept moved upward by a predetermined distance while the cam portion 443a is in sliding contact with the base end portion 462a.

In this case, although not clearly shown in the drawing, when the second link lever 462 comes into sliding contact with the cam portion 443a, the surface including the portion that comes into sliding contact with the cam portion 443a has its own central axis (the center of the second link shaft 42f). axis) and the stop axis of the output gear 443.

As the pedal link 35' moves upward, the stopper pin moves upward, and the pedal stopper pin 34b' also moves upward.

At this time, the stopper pin moves upward while contacting the edge wall of the recess 292' of the upper pedal 29', so the upper pedal 29' resists the biasing force of the upper pedal spring, as shown in FIG. 24(b). to move forward from the initial position. This forward movement of the upper pedal 29' is performed by upward movement of the stopper pin. Then, when the stopper pin reaches the upper end of the stopper pin insertion hole, it comes into contact with the stopper contact portion 293' to restrict the upper pedal 29' from retracting.

Then, the upper pedal 29' that has moved forward comes into contact with the second product from the lowest position (hereinafter also referred to as the next product), and prevents the next product from moving downward.

On the other hand, since the rotary stopper 36' is loaded with the load of the product that has come into contact with the lower pedal 28' which is maintained at the advanced position, the upward movement of the pedal stopper pin 34b' restricts the backward movement. By being released, the rotation stopper 36' starts to move backward.

When the rotation stopper 36' starts to move backward in this way, the pedal operating shaft 361' comes out of the fitting part, and the lower pedal 28' starts to move backward against the biasing force of the lower pedal spring 28b' due to the weight of the product. do. The pedal operating shaft 361' of the rotation stopper 36' that has come out of the fitting portion moves along the first guide portion toward a position where the first guide portion and the second guide portion intersect.

After this, as shown in FIG. 24(c), the lower pedal 28' moves backward due to the weight of the lowest product, allowing the lowest product to move downward; It will be carried out. The transported product is guided to the product delivery port 3c through the chute 5, and is then ready to be taken out via the product removal port 2a.

Here, when the lowest product passes through the lower pedal 28', the lower pedal 28' is moved toward the advanced position by the elastic biasing force of the lower pedal spring 28b', and the rotation stopper 36' is also moved by the pedal operation spring. It moves toward the advancing position due to the elastic biasing force. When the lower pedal 28' and the rotation stopper 36' move toward the extended position, the pedal operating shaft 361', which was held at the intersection of the first guide part and the second guide part, moves toward the inserted part. 2, and the lower pedal 28' and rotation stopper 36' return to the extended position.

Thereafter, when the contact between the cam portion 443a and the base end portion 462a is released by rotation of the output gear 443, the pedal link 35' is urged by the link spring 35a' and moves downward.

Due to this downward movement of the pedal link 35', the stopper pin moves downward, and the pedal stopper pin 34b' also moves downward.

When the pedal stopper pin 34b' moves to the lower end of the pedal stopper pin support groove, the pedal stopper pin 34b' comes into contact with the recess 36b' on the back side of the rotation stopper 36' which has returned to the advanced position. As a result, movement in the backward movement direction is restricted, and as shown in FIG. Return to non-standby position. As a result, the second sold-out detection switch 27 switches from the off state to the on state, and gives an on signal to the payout control section 60.

On the other hand, the upper pedal 29' is biased by the upper pedal spring and moves backward as the stopper pin 34b' moves downward. As a result, the next product is allowed to move downward, and then the next product comes into contact with the lower pedal 28' that has moved forward and is restricted from moving downward. The pedal 28' shifts to the product presence standby position and returns to the standby state.

In the drive unit 40, as the output gear 443 rotates counterclockwise when viewed from the front, the cam portion 443a subsequently comes into contact with the base end portion 461a of the first link lever 461. In this case, the first link lever 461 is restricted from rotating around the central axis because the locking portion 461c is in contact with the left side edge 471 of the right side opening. Therefore, the locking portion 461c is elastically deformed to allow the base end portion 461a to approach the locking portion 461c, and does not inhibit movement of the cam portion 443a due to rotation of the output gear 443.

Then, when the cam portion 443a returns to the standby position due to the rotation of the output gear 443, the pressing piece 443b presses the contact 45a of the carrier switch 45, and the carrier switch 45 is switched from the off state to the on state, and an on signal is generated. is given to the payout control unit 60. Thereafter, the dispensing control unit 60 issues a drive stop command to the motor 43 through the motor drive processing unit 62 to stop the motor 43 from driving.

<Detection of product inventory>
FIG. 25 is a block diagram showing a control system related to detecting the number of products in stock in the vending machine 100. As shown in FIG. 25, the vending machine control unit 101 includes a filter processing unit 81, a period calculation unit 82, and an inventory quantity estimation unit 83, and is connected to a microphone 70 and a dispensing control unit 60 of the product dispensing devices 20a and 20b. be done.

The microphone 70 is provided inside the upper heat insulation door 3a, that is, on the product storage rack 10 side of the upper heat insulation door 3a. When the product storage rack 10 is divided into three product storage racks 10 when viewed from the front, three microphones 70 are provided corresponding to the positions of each product storage rack.

The microphone 70 functions as a waveform detection unit that detects the time waveform of sound or vibration during the unloading operation of the lowest product, and detects the time waveform of the sound.

Of the time waveforms detected by the microphone 70, the filter processing unit 81 outputs a time waveform that has been subjected to filter processing to pass a predetermined frequency band. For example, the filter processing unit 81 performs filter processing to remove noise using a high-pass filter that passes frequencies of 5 to 14 kHz. Note that the filter processing section 81 is included in the configuration of the waveform detection section.

Based on the time waveform output by the filter processing unit 81, the period calculation unit 82 calculates a first period ΔT1 from the sales command to the start of the advance movement of the lower pedals 28, 28', and On the other hand, a second period ΔT3 from the time when the second item from the bottom hits until the end of sales, and an intermediate period ΔT2 between the first period ΔT1 and the second period ΔT3 are acquired, and the first period ΔT1 A computation period T is calculated by subtracting the second period ΔT3 from the sum of the sum of the sum of the sum and the intermediate period ΔT2. Note that when the slope of the amplitude of the time waveform with respect to time is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the period calculation unit 82 sets the period as a provisional start point, sets the second provisional start point as the end point of the first period, and sets the fourth provisional start point as the end point of the first period. The start time is determined as the start time of the second period. Then, the stock quantity estimating unit 83 estimates the product stock quantity n from the relationship between the calculation period T and the product stock quantity N. Note that when the inventory quantity estimation unit 83 estimates that the inventory quantity N of the product is 0, it outputs that the product is sold out.

FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram illustrating period calculation by the period calculation unit 82. As shown in FIG. 26, the product carrying out device 20b drives the lower pedal 28' and the upper pedal 29' as shown in (1) to (6) when carrying out the product to the second product storage passage 13b.

At this time, as shown in FIG. 26(a), four peak waveforms W1 to W4 are sequentially generated in the time waveform W. The peak waveform W1 occurs in the state (2), and includes the sound of the backward movement of the lower pedal 28', the sound of the collision between the upper pedal 29' and the product, the sound of the product being displaced, and the like. The peak waveform W2 occurs in the state (3), and includes the sound of the forward movement of the lower pedal 28', the collision sound of the product colliding with the chute 5, and the like. The peak waveform W3 includes the rolling sound of the product rolling on the chute 5. Furthermore, the peak waveform W4 occurs in the state (6), and includes the sound of collision between the lower pedal 28' and the product and the rolling sound of the product rolling on the chute 5.

If the slope of the time integral value of the amplitude for each predetermined sampling of the time waveform or the slope of the envelope is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the period calculation unit 82 tentatively determines the period as the tentative start point. For example, time points t11, t12, t13, and t14 are provisionally determined as the provisional start time points. These tentative start points correspond to the start points of peak waveforms W1 to W4, respectively. Then, the period calculation unit 82 sets the second provisional start point, t12, as the end point of the first period ΔT1, t2, and sets the fourth provisional start point, t14, as the start point of the second period ΔT3. A certain time point t3 is determined. Further, the period calculation unit 82 determines the period from time t2, which is the end of the first period ΔT1, to time t3, which is the start of the second period ΔT3, as an intermediate period ΔT2.

As a result, the period calculation unit 82 calculates the timing from the time t1 of the sales command to the time t2 when the lower pedal 28' starts moving forward (as indicated by the broken line in FIG. 26(3), the lower pedal 28' starts moving forward in the direction of the arrow). It is possible to specify a first period ΔT1 from the time point t3 when the second product from the bottom contacts the lower pedal 28' to a time t4 when the sale ends. Note that the period from time t2 to time t3 is an intermediate period ΔT2. Then, the period calculation unit 82 adds the first period ΔT1 and the intermediate period ΔT2, and calculates the calculation period T (=ΔT1+ΔT2−ΔT3) by subtracting the second period ΔT3 from the added value.

Here, conventionally, the determination point of the sold-out detection switch (the first sold-out detection switch 26, the second sold-out detection switch 27) was set at the time of division between the intermediate period ΔT2 and the second period ΔT3. After the product is dispensed, when the second product comes into contact with the upper surface of the lower pedal 28', the bounce of the product changes the time at which the sold-out detection switch is activated, and due to this influence, the second period ΔT3 An error occurred. In this embodiment, this classification point is set as the point t3 when the lower pedal 28' and the product collide, so even if the sold-out detection switch is determined to change, it will not affect the first period ΔT1 and the second period ΔT3. Errors are less likely to occur.

FIG. 27 is a diagram showing the relationship between the calculation period T and the number N of products in stock. When the number N of products in stock is large, the falling speed of the remaining products becomes faster due to the weight of the products, and the first period ΔT1 becomes shorter. Furthermore, when the number N of products in stock is large, the second period ΔT3 becomes shorter because the backward movement of the upper pedal 29' is assisted and the falling speed of the product becomes faster. As a result, as shown in FIG. 27, a characteristic curve L is obtained in which the number of products in stock decreases as the calculation period T increases. The stock quantity estimating unit 83 estimates the product stock number N in the product storage passage 13 (13a, 13b) using this characteristic curve L. For example, when the value of the current calculation period T is Ta, the number n of products in stock is estimated from the characteristic curve L. Note that since the characteristic curve L differs depending on the product type, the inventory quantity estimation unit 83 uses the characteristic curve L corresponding to the product type stored in the product storage passage 13.

In this embodiment, the first period ΔT1 and the second period ΔT3 using the operation of the sold-out detection switch are not used, and the advance movement (return) of the lower pedals 28, 28' is performed from the sales command based on the time waveform W. ) and the second period ΔT3 from the time when the second product from the bottom touches (collides with) the lower pedals 28, 28' until the end of sales. , the number of products in stock can be estimated with high accuracy. On the other hand, in this embodiment, since it is possible to detect zero in the number of products in stock without using the sold-out detection switch, the sold-out detection switch mechanism is not required, and the configuration can be simplified.

<Modification 1>
FIG. 28 is a block diagram showing a control system related to detecting the number of products in stock according to the first modification. In this modification 1, as shown in FIG. 28, an integral calculation section 84 is newly provided. The integral calculation unit 84 calculates a time integral value of the time waveform W. That is, a time integral value is calculated as the energy value of the entire time waveform W. Although FIG. 26(b) shows the instantaneous time integral value TI, the integral calculation unit 84 calculates the entire time integral value TI. Note that instead of the entire time integral value TI, the sum of the time integral values of the first period ΔT1 and the second period ΔT3 may be used. This is because there is a lot of noise in the intermediate period ΔT2.

Then, the stock quantity estimating unit 83 performs a multiple regression analysis using at least the computation period T and the overall time integral value TI as explanatory variables and the number N of products in stock as an objective variable, and calculates the number N of products in stock in the product storage aisle. presume. In multiple regression analysis, the more data such as the calculation period T, the time integral value TI, and the number of products in stock N that are actual results, the more accurate the objective variable can be obtained.

In addition, in multiple regression analysis, when the objective variable is y and the explanatory variables are x1 and x2,
y=a1・x1+a2・x2+b
The constants a1, a2, and b of the equation are determined from a large amount of actual data or updated.

FIG. 29 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of multiple regression analysis based on actual results. In FIG. 29, the calculation period T and time integral value TI are plotted when the number of products in stock N is 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, and the plotted values are used for multiple regression. As a result of the analysis, the number of products in stock N is the boundary r1 between 0 and 1, the boundary r2 between 1 and 2, the boundary r3 between 2 and 3, and the boundary between 3 and 4. Line r4 and boundary line r5 between line 4 and line 5 are determined.

In FIG. 29, the number of products in stock N from 1 to 3 is estimated with very high accuracy. When the number N of products in stock exceeds 4, there is data in which the number N of products in stock deviates by ±1 product. From FIG. 29, the number of correct answers for the number N of products in stock is 89%, and if the allowable error is ±1 of the number N of products in stock, the number of correct answers is 100%.

Note that, for example, the amount of current flowing through the motor 43 may be added to the objective variable in addition to the calculation period T and the time integral value TI. In addition, other parameters having a causal relationship with the number N of products in stock may be added.

<Modification 2>
In both the embodiment and the first modification described above, the first period ΔT1 and the second period ΔT3 are determined using a time waveform. On the other hand, in this modified example 2, as in the conventional case, the first period is The first period ΔT1' corresponding to ΔT1, the second period ΔT3' corresponding to the second period ΔT3, and the intermediate period ΔT2' corresponding to the intermediate period ΔT2 are calculated and the calculation period T (=ΔT1'+ΔT2'-ΔT3') I am trying to calculate.

FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram illustrating period calculation by the period calculation unit 82 of Modification 2. In FIG. As shown in FIG. 30, the period calculation unit 82 calculates a first period ΔT1′ from a time t1 when the carrier switch 45 is turned off corresponding to the discharge command to a time t2 when the second sold-out detection switch 27 is first turned on. The period from time t3' when the second sold-out detection switch 27 is finally (finally) turned off to time t4 when the carrier switch 45 is turned on is defined as a second period ΔT3'. Further, the period between the first period ΔT1' and the second period ΔT3' is defined as an intermediate period ΔT2'. Then, the period calculation unit 82 calculates, as the calculation period T, a calculation period T' which is obtained by adding the first period ΔT1' and the intermediate period ΔT2' and further subtracting the second period ΔT3'.

In this modification 3, the intermediate period ΔT2' (period from time t2 to time t3') tends to include errors due to fluctuations in time t3' caused by the vibrations of the lower pedals 28, 28', and the second period ΔT3' Although errors are likely to occur, this error can be reduced by performing multiple regression analysis with the time integral value TI. Note that in the embodiment and the first modification, the first period ΔT1 and the second period ΔT3 are used to eliminate fluctuations in the period of the intermediate period ΔT2'.

<Modification 3>
In the above embodiments and modifications, a microphone was used to detect sound as a waveform detection unit that detects a time waveform, but in this modification 3, a vibration pickup sensor 90 (see FIG. 31) is used as a waveform detection unit. is used. The vibration pickup sensor 90 detects vibrations associated with the operation of the product carrying-out devices (first product carrying-out device 20a, second product carrying-out device 20b), vibrations accompanying movement of the product, and the like.

FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement of the vibration pickup sensor 90. The vibration pickup sensor 90 is attached to a support member 91 that engages and connects the base 11 of the product storage rack 10 to the top plate of the product storage 4 to support it. Since the product storage rack 10 is divided into three parts in the front-rear direction and three parts in the left-right direction, a total of nine vibration pickup sensors 90 are arranged. Note that since the support member 91 is also connected to the product storage 4, it also detects the collision sound of the product colliding with the chute 5, the rolling sound of the product rolling on the chute 5, etc.

The time waveform detected by the vibration pickup sensor 90 is similar to the time waveform of the sound from the microphone 70 that has been filtered by the filter processing section 81, so that the filter processing by the filter processing section 81 is unnecessary. Note that the filtering process may remove necessary sounds from the temporal waveform of the sound acquired by the microphone 70, and may cause variations in the estimation of the number of products in stock. Therefore, by using the vibration pickup sensor 90, this variation can be reduced, and deterioration in the accuracy of estimating the number of products in stock can be suppressed.

<Modification 4>
In the above-described embodiment and modifications 1 and 2, the microphone 70 was used as the waveform detection section. Among the types of microphone 70 is a condenser microphone 70'. FIG. 32 is a schematic diagram showing the general structure of a condenser microphone 70'. As shown in FIG. 32, the condenser microphone 70' converts sound into an electrical signal of a capacitance change between the vibrating membrane 200 and the electrode 201.

FIG. 33 is a diagram showing an example of a time waveform detected by the condenser microphone 70'. As shown in FIG. 33, when the product passes through the product delivery port 3c, the product delivery port 3c opens, and a whisker waveform WP is generated due to the occurrence of a sudden change in air pressure in the product storage 4. That is, when this whisker waveform WP occurs, it means that the product rolling from the chute 5 has been delivered to the product takeout port 2a via the product delivery port 3c of the inner door 3.

Therefore, the stock quantity estimation unit 83 detects the passage of the product through the product delivery port 3c and detects the number of products to be carried out based on the whisker waveform WP generated in the time waveform detected by the waveform detection unit. With the simple configuration of detecting the number of items to be carried out, it is possible to detect that the products carried out from the product carrying out device remain in the product storage 4.

Note that each of the configurations illustrated in the above-described embodiments and modifications is functionally schematic, and does not necessarily need to physically have the configuration shown in the figures. In other words, the form of dispersion/integration of each device and component is not limited to the one shown in the diagram, but all or part of it may be functionally or physically dispersed/integrated in arbitrary units depending on various usage conditions. It can be configured as follows.

1 Main body cabinet 2 Outer door 2a Product outlet 3 Inner door 3a Upper insulated door 3b Lower insulated door 3c Product exit 4 Product storage 5 Shooter 6 Temperature control unit 7 Machine room 10 Product storage rack 11 Base 12 Passage component 13 Product Storage passage 13a First product storage passage 13b Second product storage passage 14 Top tray 15 Product guide passage 16, 17 Passage width regulation plate 20 Product delivery device 20a First product delivery device 20b Second product delivery device 26 First sold-out detection Switch 27 Second sold-out detection switch 28, 28' Lower pedal 28a, 29a Swing support shaft 29, 29' Upper pedal 40 Drive unit 43 Motor 57 Memory 60 Payout control section 61 Input processing section 62 Motor drive processing section 63 Output processing Part 70 Microphone 70′ Condenser microphone 81 Filter processing unit 82 Period calculation unit 83 Inventory quantity estimation unit 84 Integral calculation unit 90 Vibration pickup sensor 91 Support member 100 Vending machine 101 Vending machine control unit N Product inventory quantity r1 to r5 Boundary line T Calculation Period t1-t4, t11-t14 Time point TI Time integral value W Time waveform W1-W4 Peak waveform WP Whisker waveform ΔT1 1st period ΔT2 Intermediate period ΔT3 2nd period

Claims (8)

a lower pedal swingably disposed on the base in such a manner that its tip moves forward and backward with respect to a product storage passageway for vertically storing loaded products;
an upper pedal that is swingably disposed on the base in such a manner that its tip moves forward and backward with respect to the product storage passage in an area above the lower pedal, and in a standby state, the upper pedal While retracting from the product storage path, the lower pedal is moved forward into the product storage path, and the lower pedal takes a standby position with the lowest product placed on the top surface, thereby moving the product downward. On the other hand, when driving the product unloading operation based on a sales command, the upper pedal is advanced into the product storage passage and brought into contact with the second product from the bottom, while a product carrying device that carries out the lowest product downward by moving a lower pedal backward from the product storage passage;
a waveform detection unit that detects a time waveform of sound or vibration during the unloading operation of the lowest product;
Based on the time waveform, a first period from the sales command to the start of the advance movement of the lower pedal, and a period from the start of the advance movement of the lower pedal to the second period from the lowest with respect to the lower pedal are determined. An intermediate period up to the time when the product makes contact with the lower pedal, and a second period from the time when the second product from the bottom comes into contact with the bottom pedal until the end of the sale are determined, and the first period and the intermediate period are calculated. a period calculation unit that calculates a calculation period by subtracting the second period from the value added;
an inventory amount estimating unit that estimates the number of products in stock in the product storage passage based on the relationship between the calculation period and the number of products in stock;
A vending machine characterized by being equipped with. a lower pedal swingably disposed on the base in such a manner that its tip moves forward and backward with respect to a product storage passageway for vertically storing loaded products;
an upper pedal that is swingably disposed on the base in such a manner that its tip moves forward and backward with respect to the product storage passage in an area above the lower pedal, and in a standby state, the upper pedal While retracting from the product storage path, the lower pedal is moved forward into the product storage path, and the lower pedal takes a standby position with the lowest product placed on the top surface, thereby moving the product downward. On the other hand, when driving the product unloading operation based on a sales command, the upper pedal is advanced into the product storage passage and brought into contact with the second product from the bottom, while a product carrying device that carries out the lowest product downward by moving a lower pedal backward from the product storage passage;
a waveform detection unit that detects a time waveform of sound or vibration during the unloading operation of the lowest product;
Based on the time waveform, a first period from the sales command to the start of the advance movement of the lower pedal, and a period from the start of the advance movement of the lower pedal to the second period from the lowest with respect to the lower pedal are determined. An intermediate period up to the time when the product makes contact with the lower pedal, and a second period from the time when the second product from the bottom comes into contact with the bottom pedal until the end of the sale are determined, and the first period and the intermediate period are calculated. a period calculation unit that calculates a calculation period by subtracting the second period from the value added;
an integral calculation unit that calculates a time integral value of the time waveform;
an inventory quantity estimating unit that performs a multiple regression analysis using at least the calculation period and the time integral value as explanatory variables and the quantity of merchandise in stock as an objective variable to estimate the quantity of merchandise in stock in the merchandise storage aisle;
A vending machine characterized by being equipped with. The automatic vending machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the waveform detection section includes a filter processing section that outputs a time waveform that has been subjected to filter processing to pass a predetermined frequency band among the detected time waveforms. Machine. When the slope of the amplitude of the time waveform with respect to time is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the period calculation unit determines the period to start as a tentative start point, sets the second tentative start point as the end point of the first period, and sets the fourth tentative start point as the end point of the first period. The vending machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that a point in time is determined as the starting point of the second period. The vending machine according to claim 1, 2 or 4, wherein the waveform detection section is a vibration pickup sensor. The inventory quantity estimating unit detects passage of the product through a product delivery port and detects the number of products to be carried out based on a whisker waveform generated in the time waveform detected by the waveform detection unit. Vending machine described in any one of 1 to 4. The vending machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the stock quantity estimating unit outputs that the product is sold out when the product stock quantity is estimated to be 0. When no product is placed on the upper surface of the lower pedal when the product is moved into the product storage passage, the lower pedal assumes a non-product standby position in which the tip end is located above the standby position;
comprising a sold-out detection switch that detects the non-product standby position of the lower pedal as on after the sale ends;
The first period is a period from the sales command until the sold-out detection switch is turned on for the first time,
3. The vending machine according to claim 2, wherein the second period is a period from when the sold-out detection switch is turned off until the end of the sale.

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