Patent ID: 9324053
Filing Date: 2016-04-26
CPC Classification: G06Q,G07F,G07G

Claim Text:
1. A method of RFID inventory control for vending containers, comprising: providing a modular vending unit, comprising providing an RFID inventory interrogation and data collection means, comprising an RFID transducer capable of sending an interrogate signal, and receiving a RFID response signal from each RFID-tagged container, providing an electronic container inventory means in communication with said RFID inventory interrogation and data collection means, configured to indicate a quantity of available containers, and a quantity of unoccupied storage volumes, providing an electronic selection means, configured to allow the acquisition or return of a container, said electronic selection means comprising a first electronic control means for rotating and locking said RFID-tagged container storage and dispensing unit, and a second electronic control means for unlocking and locking said access means, whereby a user interfaces with said electronic selection means in order to obtain or return a container, and said electronic container inventory means updates real-time.