Abstract:
The Novel Modular Vending Machine for Packaged Goods allows consumers to purchase packaged goods without an attendant present. The invention uses two or more conveyor assemblies to store and transfer packaged goods and primarily uses gravity to transfer the packaged goods from the storage location to the customer. When a vend is initiated, a dispensing drum rotates and places a packaged item on a delivery system for transportation to the customer. The remaining packaged goods move into position for the next vend. When the lower conveyor assembly is empty, an upper conveyor assembly is lowered into position to transfer the remaining packaged goods to the dispensing drum. The apparatus may be configured in a system comprised of multiple modular units controlled by a single user interface.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation application of Ser. No. 11/866,982 filed Oct. 3, 2007 now abandoned. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention relates to vending machines used for vending packaged merchandise such as food items, beverages, or other consumable products. More particularly, this invention relates to a vending machine module containing a system of conveyors that store and deliver packaged goods by the use of gravity, rollers, and mechanical means. 
     BACKGROUND 
     A variety of vending machines are available that allow consumers to purchase goods. Many of these vending machines are designed to deliver individual products for immediate or near term consumption by a purchaser. Vending machines that provide the opportunity for a consumer to purchase packaged products are less readily available. For example, it is common for consumers to encounter a vending machine that sells individual soft drinks but it is less common for consumers to encounter a vending machine that sells a twelve pack of soft drinks. As a result, many consumers who want to purchase a twelve-pack of soft drinks do so at a grocery store, convenience store, or other similar retail establishment. This process requires entering the establishment, locating the desired item, transporting the item to a point of sale terminal, purchasing the item, and exiting the establishment. Vending machines that sell packaged goods which are routinely consumed by customers would benefit both consumers and manufacturers; however, vending machines that sell packaged goods generally face greater design challenges than vending machines that sell individual items. For example, packaged goods are larger and heavier than individual items. Accordingly, a vending machine for packaged goods might be bulkier and require heavier components than a vending machine that sells individual items. In order for a vending machine for packaged goods to be economically feasible, it is desirable that the size, weight, and configuration of the components be engineered to accommodate the larger and heavier packaged goods in a cost-effective and reliable manner. To that end, it is desirable to utilize gravitational forces where possible to reduce the mechanical forces required to transfer the packaged goods from the storage location to the purchaser. 
     It is also desirable that vending machines which sell packaged goods be easy to reload due to the increased size and weight of the goods sold. A vending machine for packaged goods should be easy to reload so that individuals can do so quickly and efficiently without being required to handle the somewhat heavy packaged goods in awkward positions. This objective can be achieved by minimizing lift heights and optimizing access to the loading area. 
     A vending machine for packaged goods should be designed to operate using a minimum number of moving components. Any components subjected to wear should be positioned to allow easy access for repair, replacement, and maintenance. Allowing easy access to these components increases the profitability of the vending machine by increasing operational reliability and reducing or minimizing operational down time. 
     Another challenge that must be addressed by a vending machine for packaged goods is that the packaging materials themselves are often susceptible to damage that could allow the individual items to be dispersed from the package during the completion of a sale. If this occurs, the customer could receive an incomplete package and the loose items could cause the machine to jam, both of which decrease customer satisfaction. As a result, it is desirable to have a vending machine that dispenses packaged items with minimal disturbance and agitation to reduce the likelihood of damaging the packaging materials. 
     Information relevant to attempts to address these problems can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,170,702 B1; 5,881,911; 4,591,070; 4,896,792; 3,155,274 and 2,965,262 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0140317 A1. However, each one of these references suffers from one or more of the following disadvantages: they utilize elevators to transfer the packaged goods; they use complex devices to transfer the packaged goods from the shelves to the delivery point; they lack a simplified manner of reloading the packaged goods; they do not minimize agitation or potential damage to the packaged goods; they do not maximize the benefits of gravitational forces to facilitate the transfer of the packaged goods; and they do not configure the major components in locations that will provide for easy maintenance, repair, or replacement. For the foregoing reasons, there is a need for a novel device for vending packaged goods that overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art. 
     SUMMARY 
     We have invented a novel modular vending machine for packaged goods that satisfies the needs described in the background because it utilizes simple devices that maximize the benefits of gravity to facilitate the transfer of packaged goods, it is simple to reload, it imparts minimal agitation to the packaged goods, it provides a convenient manner for reloading, and it has the major components located to facilitate the maintenance, repair, or replacement of those items. 
     A novel modular vending machine for packaged goods having features of the present invention comprises a cabinet, a lower conveyor assembly for storing and conveying packaged goods that is positioned at an incline within the cabinet, one or more upper conveyor assemblies for storing and conveying packaged goods positioned parallely to each other at an incline within the cabinet each having posterior ends pivotally attached to the cabinet so that the anterior ends of the upper conveyor assemblies are vertically displaceable independently, a displacing means for vertically displacing the anterior ends of the upper conveyor assemblies independently, a retaining means for retaining the packaged goods on the upper conveyor assemblies until the upper conveyor assemblies are positioned to allow for the dispensing of the packaged goods, and a dispensing means for dispensing the packaged goods from the lower conveyor assembly and upper conveyor assemblies. 
     The retaining means may be accomplished using a retainer plate located within the cabinet and positioned proximal to the anterior end of the upper conveyor assembly. The retainer plate may be adjustable to accommodate various sizes of packaged goods. The dispensing means may be accomplished using a dispensing drum that is rotated by a dispensing motor mechanically connected to the dispensing drum using a chain or belt and an adjustable idler. The packaged goods stored on the lower and upper conveyor assemblies and may be displaceable by gravity. The lower and upper conveyor assemblies may be comprised of a number of rollers parallely disposed within the cabinet. The lift assembly comprises a linear actuator, a lever, and a plurality of lift bars or a winch, pulleys, and cables. The novel modular vending machine for packaged goods may be controlled using an automated control system. The automated control system may comprise a programmable logic device, such as a smart relay, a photoelectric eye transmitter and receiver, a proximity sensor, a proximity sensor indicator, and relays. 
     The novel modular vending machines for packaged goods may be organized in a system that is arranged to dispense packaged goods onto a common conveyor that transports the packaged goods to a dispensing bin. Each of these devices may be connected to a single user interface. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where: 
         FIG. 1  is a front isometric view of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods, according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 2  is a rear isometric view of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ), according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 3  is a side schematic view of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ) in the fully loaded configuration, according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 4  is a side schematic view of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ) with the lower conveyor assembly empty and the upper conveyor assembly fully loaded with goods and in the lowered position, according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 5  is a rear view of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ) with both the upper and lower conveyor assemblies empty and the upper conveyor assembly in the raised position. 
         FIG. 6  is a closeup front elevation view of the dispensing motor, idler, and a portion of the drive chain assembly of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ), according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 7  is an isometric view of the dispensing drum of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ), according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 8  is a top view and side view of the proximity sensor indicator of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ), according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 9  is an isometric view of the roller frame from the upper roller assembly of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ), according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 10  is a side schematic view of the lift assembly of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ), according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 11  is an isometric view of the lever of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ), according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 12  is a closeup front elevation view of the retainer plate of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ), according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 13  is a schematic plan view of a system of novel modular vending machines for packaged goods, according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 14  is a schematic side view of a system of novel modular vending machines for packaged goods, according to some embodiments. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     According to the present invention, a novel modular vending machine for packaged goods is disclosed. The novel modular vending machine for packaged goods includes a cabinet, a dispensing motor, a dispensing drum, a retainer plate, a lower conveyor assembly, an upper conveyor assembly, a lift assembly, and an automated control system. The cabinet has a base, a left side wall, a right side wall, and supports on the upper anterior and upper posterior corners. The base is the structural foundation for the side walls, the dispensing motor, and the dispensing drum and is constructed of rigid members such as “C,” “I,” angle, or square sections. The left side wall and right side wall are rigid panels mounted on the upper side of the base. The left side wall and right side wall provide mounting surfaces for the lower and upper conveyor assemblies, the lift assembly, and the retainer plate. Both the left side wall and right side wall are generally rectangular in shape with flanged edges for enhanced structural integrity. The flanged edges also serve as attachment points for other components. The left side wall and right side wall are configured to accommodate the mounting, positioning, and operation of other functional elements. For example, the lower anterior corners of the left side wall and right side wall are adapted so that the dispensing drum can be mounted directly to the base and positioned adjacent to the lower conveyor assembly. The two supports are rigidly attached between the upper corners of the left side wall and right side wall completing the box-like shape of the cabinet. The supports are rigid and can be made from a variety of cross sectional shapes such as “C,” “I,” angle, or square sections. 
     The lower conveyor assembly contains a plurality of lower rollers, each having a shaft that extends axially beyond both ends of the rollers. The lower rollers are parallely disposed within the cabinet, perpendicular to the side walls. Each roller is secured in the cabinet by positioning the ends of the shaft in opposed orifices in the side walls. The entire lower conveyor assembly is positioned at a fixed incline with the lower end of the lower conveyor assembly proximal to the dispensing drum. 
     The dispensing drum is generally cylinder shaped, having a notched recess that extends longitudinally for the length of the dispensing drum. The dispensing drum is positioned at the lower end of the lower conveyor assembly in a manner that allows the dispensing drum to receive the lowermost packaged good from the lower conveyor assembly. The dispensing motor is the drive mechanism for the dispensing drum. The dispensing motor is located in the lower posterior region of the cabinet and is rigidly attached to the base. The dispensing motor is mechanically attached to the dispensing drum using a chain and gears or a belt and pulleys. 
     The upper conveyor assembly contains a plurality of upper rollers, each having a shaft that extends axially beyond both ends of the rollers, a roller frame of generally rectangular shape, a plate, and an attachment rod. The upper rollers are parallely disposed within the roller frame, perpendicular to the roller frame. Each roller is secured in the roller frame by positioning the ends of the shaft in opposed orifices in the roller frame. The posterior end of the upper conveyor assembly is pivotally attached to the side walls using an attachment rod. The plate is securely mounted to the roller frame at the anterior end of the upper conveyor assembly. The anterior end of the upper conveyor assembly is pivotally attached to the lift assembly. The lift assembly utilizes a linear actuator to manipulate the anterior end of the upper conveyor assembly from the raised position to the lowered position. 
     The retainer plate is a generally rectangular plate having a slightly curved surface. The retainer plate is attached to the side walls of the cabinet and positioned such that the concave portion of the retainer plate is adjacent to the upper conveyor assembly. The position of the retainer plate is adjustable to accommodate different sizes of packaged goods. 
     The automated control system is comprised of a smart relay, a first relay, a second relay, a reset button, a proximity sensor, a proximity sensor indicator, a photoelectric eye transmitter, a photoelectric eye receiver, and the associated electrical connections between them. The smart relay is field programmable and controls the operation of the linear actuator and dispensing motor. The smart relay is electrically connected to the proximity sensor, the photoelectric eye transmitter, the photoelectric eye receiver, and the dispensing motor. The smart relay is also electrically connected to the first relay and second relay which are electrically connected to the linear actuator. 
     A novel modular vending machine for packaged goods  200 , is illustrated in  FIGS. 1-14 .  FIG. 1  is a front isometric view of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods, according to some embodiments.  FIG. 2  is a rear isometric view of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ), according to some embodiments.  FIG. 3  is a side schematic view of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ) in the fully loaded configuration, according to some embodiments.  FIG. 4  is a side schematic view of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ) with the lower conveyor assembly empty and the upper conveyor assembly fully loaded with goods and in the lowered position, according to some embodiments.  FIG. 5  is a rear view of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ) with both the upper and lower conveyor assemblies empty and the upper conveyor assembly in the raised position.  FIG. 6  is a closeup front elevation view of the dispensing motor, idler, and a portion of the drive chain assembly of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ), according to some embodiments.  FIG. 7  is an isometric view of the dispensing drum of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ), according to some embodiments.  FIG. 8  is a top view and side view of the proximity sensor indicator of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ), according to some embodiments.  FIG. 9  is an isometric view of the roller frame of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ), according to some embodiments.  FIG. 10  is a side schematic view of the lift assembly of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ), according to some embodiments.  FIG. 11  is an isometric view of the lever of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ), according to some embodiments.  FIG. 12  is a closeup front elevation view of the retainer plate of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods (of  FIG. 1 ), according to some embodiments.  FIG. 13  is a schematic plan view of a system of novel modular vending machines for packaged goods, according to some embodiments.  FIG. 14  is a schematic side view of a system of novel modular vending machines for packaged goods, according to some embodiments. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1-14 , the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods includes a cabinet  20 , a dispensing motor  40 , a dispensing drum  52 , a retainer plate  80 , a lower conveyor assembly  82 , an upper conveyor assembly  88 , a lift assembly  102 , and an automated control system, according to some embodiments. 
     Referring specifically to  FIG. 1 , the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods  200  is generally box-shaped being formed by the cabinet  20  comprised of a base  26 , a left side wall  22 , a right side wall  24 , and supports  28 . The base  26  is the structural foundation of the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods  200  in that the left side wall  22 , the right side wall  24 , the dispensing motor  40 , and the dispensing drum  52  are mounted onto the base  26 . Accordingly, the base  26  is comprised of members with rigid cross sections such as “C,” “I,” angle, or square cross sections made of strong materials such as steel that are securely fastened to each other using fasteners such as nuts and bolts, screws, or rivets. In some embodiments, the base  26  is comprised of members fastened by welding, brazing, or soldering. 
     The dispensing motor  40  is a commercially available part that is attached to the base  26  using fasteners such as nuts and bolts, screws, or rivets (Ref.  FIG. 6 ). The dispensing motor  40  is located at the posterior end of cabinet  20  (See also  FIGS. 3 and 4 ). In some embodiments, the dispensing motor  40  may be located in other areas. The dispensing motor  40  is powered electrically, but some embodiments my employ the use of pneumatic or hydraulic power. According to some embodiments, the dispensing motor  40  has a right angle output, operates at 7.7/9.3 rpm, and produces 1/13 hp with a 180:1 gear ratio. The dispensing motor  40  is the drive mechanism for the dispensing drum  52  and is mechanically linked to the dispensing drum  52  through a dispensing motor gear  42 , the drive chain  44 , and a drive gear  56  (Ref.  FIGS. 3 and 4 ). In some embodiments, the dispensing motor  40  is mechanically linked to the dispensing drum  52  using belts and pulleys or gears and shafts. In other embodiments, the dispensing motor  40  may be replaced with a pump and the dispensing drum  52  may be driven by hydraulic or pneumatic pressure. 
     The dispensing motor gear  42  is securely mated to the output shaft of the dispensing motor  40  (Ref.  FIG. 6 ). The tension of the drive chain  44  is adjustable using an adjustable idler  46  mounted in a slot  50  located on an idler bracket  48 . The slot  50  allows the adjustable idler  46  to be positioned vertically as needed to increase or decrease the tension on the drive chain  44  (Ref.  FIG. 6 ). The idler bracket  48  is securely mounted to the left side wall  22  using fasteners such as nuts and bolts, screws, or rivets. 
     The dispensing drum  52  is generally cylindrical shaped having a notched recess  53  that extends longitudinally for the length of the dispensing drum  52 . The notched recess  53  is visible in  FIG. 1 , but is more clearly shown in  FIG. 7 . The dispensing drum  52  is securely mated to a shaft  54 . The ends of the shaft  54  are positioned through two drum bearings  58  which are mounted securely to the base  26  using fasteners such as nuts and bolts, screws, or rivets. Each drum bearing  58  has a grease fitting  142 . The drive gear  56  is securely mated to the shaft  54 . The dispensing drum  52 , the shaft  54 , and the drive gear  56  are configured such that all three components rotate at the same number of revolutions per minute, according to some embodiments (Ref.  FIG. 3 ). Other gear ratios may be implemented as needed to accommodate packaged goods  140  of various sizes and weights. 
     The proximity sensor  60  is securely mounted in an orifice  61  located on the base  12  (Ref.  FIG. 3 ). The proximity sensor  60  is adjacent to the dispensing drum  52  and is directed parallel to the longitudinal axis of the dispensing drum  52 . The proximity sensor  60  is offset from the center of rotation of the dispensing drum  52 . The proximity sensor  60  and the proximity sensor indicator  62  are positioned so the proximity sensor indicator  62  aligns with the proximity sensor  60  when the dispensing drum  52  rotates (Ref.  FIG. 7 ). The proximity sensor indicator  62  is comprised of a circular opening  64 , an arcuate slot  66 , and a target  68 . (Ref.  FIGS. 7 and 8 ) The circular opening  64  is positioned around the shaft  54  of the dispensing drum  52 . A screw  70  passes through the arcuate slot  66  and is secured to the dispensing drum  52 . This configuration provides a means to adjust the angular position of the proximity sensor indicator  62 . The screw  70  may be retained by a lock washer  72 . 
     The photoelectric eye transmitter  74  and photoelectric eye receiver  76  are attached to photoelectric eye brackets  78  using fasteners such as nuts and bolts, screws, or rivets (Ref.  FIGS. 1 ,  3 , and  4 ). The photoelectric eye brackets  78  are securely mounted on opposed sides of the cabinet  20 , proximal to the dispensing drum  52 . Orifices  79  situated on the left side wall  22 , the right side wall  24 , and the photoelectric eye brackets  78  provide line-of-sight between the photoelectric eye transmitter  74  and photoelectric eye receiver  76 . The presence of the packaged good  140  on the dispensing drum  52  blocks the line-of-sight between the photoelectric eye transmitter  74  and receiver  76 . The photoelectric eye transmitter  74  and the photoelectric eye receiver  76  may be mounted on either side of the cabinet  20 . 
     The lower conveyor assembly  82  is comprised of a plurality of lower rollers  84  mounted perpendicular to the left side wall  22  and right side wall  24  (Ref.  FIGS. 1-5 ). The lower rollers  84  are commercially available aluminum rollers having a shaft  86  that spans the longitudinal axis, according to some embodiments. The lower rollers  84  are approximately 15.5 inches long with the shaft  86  being approximately 17 inches long, according to some embodiments. The lower rollers  84  are pivotally secured by inserting the ends of the shaft  86  into two symmetrically opposed orifices  87  located in the left side wall  22  and the right side wall  24 . The shaft  86  utilizes a spring-loaded mechanism (not shown) that allows the shaft  86  to be displaced in one axial direction for installation and removal of the lower roller  84 . The lower conveyor assembly  82  is disposed at an incline so that the packaged goods  140  (Ref.  FIGS. 2 and 3 ) move toward the dispensing drum  52  by gravity. The posterior end of the cabinet  20  is designed to allow unobstructed access to the lower conveyor assembly  82  for loading or unloading of packaged goods  140  onto the lower conveyor assembly  82  (Ref.  FIG. 5 ). 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1-5 , the upper conveyor assembly  88  is comprised of a plurality of upper rollers  90 , an attachment rod  92 , and a roller frame  94 . The upper conveyor assembly  88  is oriented at an incline such that the posterior end of the upper conveyor assembly  88  is positioned at a height greater than the anterior end of the upper conveyor assembly  88 . The upper rollers  90  are similar to the lower rollers  84  except that the upper rollers  90  are approximately 12.5 inches long having a shaft  100  that is approximately 15 inches long, according to some embodiments. The posterior end of the cabinet  20  is designed to allow unobstructed access to the upper conveyor assembly  88  for loading or unloading of packaged goods  140  onto the upper conveyor assembly  88  (Ref.  FIG. 5 ). 
     The roller frame  94  is comprised of two parallely disposed elongated members  96  that provide structural support for the upper rollers  90  and a plate  98  (Ref.  FIG. 9 ). Each member  96  of the roller frame  94  has a “C” cross-section, according to some embodiments. Other cross-sectional shapes, such as angle or square cross-sections may be used. The upper rollers  90  are mounted perpendicular to the members  96  of the roller frame  94 . The upper rollers  90  are pivotally secured to the roller frame  94  by engaging the ends of the shaft  100  on each end of upper roller  90  into symmetrically opposed orifices  97  located in the members  96  of the roller frame  94 . The plate  98  is securely attached to the anterior end of the upper conveyor assembly  88 . The plate  98  is generally wedge shaped and provides a smooth transition from the upper conveyor assembly  88  to the dispensing drum  52  for the packaged goods  140  when the upper conveyor assembly  88  is in the lowered configuration (Ref.  FIG. 4 ). The posterior end of the upper conveyor assembly  88  is pivotally attached to the cabinet  20  using the attachment rod  92 . The attachment rod  92  is inserted through orifices  93  on the left side wall  22 , the right side wall  24 , and the roller frame  94 . (Ref.  FIGS. 2 ,  3  and  9 ). The attachment rod  92  is axially contained using fasteners such as keys, pins, clips, or keepers. 
     The anterior end of the upper conveyor assembly  88  is pivotally attached to the lift assembly  102  ( FIGS. 1-4 ). The lift assembly  102  is used to raise and lower the upper conveyor assembly  88 . The upper conveyor assembly  88  is disposed at an incline so that the packaged goods  140  (Ref.  FIGS. 3 and 4 ) are displaced from the posterior of the upper conveyor assembly  88  to the anterior of the upper conveyor assembly  88  by gravity. 
     In some embodiments, the lower conveyor assembly  82  or upper conveyor assembly  88  may be comprised of roller conveyors (with or without a conveyor rack), wheel conveyors, or ball conveyors. In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the lower conveyor assembly  82  or upper conveyor assembly  88  may be motorized rather than being gravity conveyors, in which case a suitable motor is provided as well as control means for activating the conveyor and controlling operation thereof. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1 ,  3  and  4 , the lift assembly  102  is comprised of a linear actuator  104 , a first pivot bearing  106 , a second pivot bearing  108  (not shown), a linear actuator mounting bracket  110 , a lever  112 , a first lift bar  128 , a second lift bar  130  (not shown), upper guide slots  136 , and lower guide slots  138 . Other embodiments of the lift assembly  102  may utilize a winch, pulley, and cable system to manipulate the upper conveyor assembly  88 . 
     The linear actuator  104  is a commercially available electric actuator. According to some embodiments, the linear actuator  104  has an 8 inch variable thrust and is capable of lifting up to 250 lbs at a speed of 25 inches per minute. Other types of linear actuators  104  may be utilized, such as pneumatic or hydraulic actuators. The static end of the linear actuator  104  is pivotally attached to the linear actuator mounting bracket  110  and the dynamic end is pivotally attached to the lever  112  (Ref.  FIGS. 1 and 10 ). The linear actuator mounting bracket  110  is generally rectangular in shape having an angled cross-section. Other cross-sections may be used. The linear actuator mounting bracket  110  is fastened securely between the left side wall  22  and the right side wall  24  using fasteners such as nuts and bolts, screws, or rivets. The linear actuator mounting bracket  110  is constructed of rigid materials having sufficient strength to support the weight of the upper conveyor assembly  88  fully loaded with packaged goods  140  (Ref.  FIG. 3 ). 
     The lever  112  is generally rectangular in shape comprising a planar surface  114 , a rounded edge  116 , a first shaft  118 , a second shaft  120 , a triangle bracket  122 , a first hinge point  124 , and a second hinge point  126  (Ref.  FIG. 11 ). The lever  112  is pivotally mounted to the first pivot bearing  106  and second pivot bearing  108  by positioning the first shaft  118  in the first pivot bearing  106  and positioning the second shaft  120  in the second pivot bearing  108 . The first pivot bearing  106  and the second pivot bearing  108  are mounted securely to the cabinet  20  using fasteners such as nuts and bolts, screws, or rivets (Ref.  FIG. 10 ). The lever  112  is positioned so the triangle bracket  122  is directed toward the linear actuator  104  and the first hinge point  124  and second hinge point  126  are directed toward the upper conveyor assembly  88  (Ref.  FIG. 3 ). The dynamic end of the linear actuator  104  is pivotally attached to the lever  112  at the outermost vertex of the triangle bracket  122  (Ref.  FIGS. 3 ,  10 , and  11 ) using fasteners such as a bolt and nut or pin and key. 
     One end of the first lift bar  128  is pivotally attached to the lever  112  at the first hinge point  124  and the opposed end of the first lift bar  128  is pivotally attached to the upper conveyor assembly  88  (Ref.  FIGS. 1 ,  3 , and  4 ). The second lift bar  130  is attached in a similar manner on the opposed side of the lift assembly  102  (not shown). The first lift bar  128  and second lift bar  130  are of similar construction. Each lift bar is comprised of a rod  132  with threaded ends having threaded eye fittings  134  attached at each end. The length of the first lift bar  128  and second lift bar  130  may be adjusted by manipulating the placement of the eye fittings  134  on the threaded ends of the first lift bar  128  and second lift bar  130 , according to some embodiments. The first lift bar  128  and second lift bar  130  are rigid. Other embodiments may employ different tension bearing members, such as chains or cables. 
     Upper guide slots  136  and lower guide slots  138  are positioned on the left side wall  22  and right side wall  24  incident to the paths of the attachment points between the first lift bar  128 , the second lift bar  130 , the lever  112 , and the lower conveyor assembly  82  ( FIGS. 1 ,  3 , and  4 ). The upper guide slots  136  and lower guide slots  138  provide an unobstructed path for the lift assembly  102  to raise and lower the upper conveyor assembly  88  (Ref.  FIGS. 1 ,  3 , and  4 ). The upper guide slots  136  are arcuate having a radius approximately equal to the length of the lever  112  (Ref.  FIG. 10 ). The lower guide slots  138  are arcuate having a radius approximately equal to the length of roller frame  94  of the upper conveyor assembly  88  (Ref.  FIG. 3-4 ). The upper guide slots  136  and the lower guide slots  138  are large enough to provide clearance between the lift assembly  102  and the cabinet  20 . 
     The retainer plate  80  is a mostly rectangular, arcuate plate with flanged edges for structural integrity and mounting purposes (Ref.  FIGS. 1-3  and  6 ). Referring specifically to  FIG. 12 , the retainer plate  80  is attached to orifices in cabinet  20  using fasteners such as nuts and bolts or screws. Some or all of these orifices may be slotted to allow for the position of the retainer plate  80  to be adjusted. The retainer plate  80  is positioned so the concave portion of the retainer plate  80  is adjacent to the upper conveyor assembly  88 . 
     The above-described elements are generally composed of metal, although any or all of these elements may alternately be composed of aluminum, steel, tin, copper, or some composite material including an amalgam of different metals or materials. 
     An electronics compartment  30  is a generally box shaped object having a hinged cover  31 . It is positioned proximal to the dispensing motor  40  in the posterior portion of the cabinet  20  (Ref.  FIG. 5 ). The smart relay  32 , the first relay  34 , and the second relay  36  are securely mounted inside the electronics compartment  30  using fasteners such as nuts and bolts, screws, or rivets. These components may be mounted to a board that is removably mounted to the inside of the electronics compartment  30  to allow for simplified removal and replacement of all three components when a novel modular vending machine for packaged goods  200  needs to be serviced in the field. The reset button  38  is securely positioned on the exterior of the hinged cover  31  so that it is readily accessible for reloading of the device (Ref.  FIG. 5 ). 
     The smart relay  32  is electrically connected to the dispensing motor  40 , the first relay  34 , the second relay  36 , the reset button  38 , the photoelectric eye transmitter  74 , the photoelectric eye receiver  76 , the proximity sensor  60 , and the linear actuator  104 . The smart relay  32 , the first relay  34 , the second relay  36 , the reset button  38 , the photoelectric eye transmitter  74 , the photoelectric eye receiver  76 , and the proximity sensor  60  are collectively referred to as the automated control system. These items are commercially available and the configurations available to effectuate the purposes described herein are commonly known in the art of automated controls. 
     Referring to  FIG. 13 , a schematic plan view of a system of modular vending machines  300  is shown. The system of modular vending machines  300  is arranged to allow each novel modular vending machine for packaged goods  200  to utilize a common conveyor  302  to transfer the packaged goods  140  to a dispensing bin  304 . The common conveyor  302  is positioned at an incline so that the packaged goods  140  vended from each modular vending machine  200  will move under the force of gravity to the dispensing bin  304 . 
       FIG. 14  shows a schematic side view of the system of modular vending machines  300 . From this view, it is evident that the novel modular vending machines for packaged goods  200  may be stacked to increase the vending capacity of the system of modular vending machines  300 . As shown in  FIG. 14 , the height of the base  26  may be varied so that each novel modular vending machine for packaged goods  200  can utilize the inclined common conveyor  302 . Other configurations that maximize the vending capacity and utilize a common conveyor are possible. 
     Although not shown in detail, the system of novel modular vending machines for packaged goods  300  is further fitted with a user interface  308 , which comprises a product selection module fitted with a plurality of selection buttons for a customer to select the type and amount of packaged goods  140  to be purchased, and a display for providing the user with operating instructions, information regarding the goods, and advertising. The user interface  308  further comprises a paying module fitted, for example, with a coin insertion and return slot, credit card slot, bill receiving slot, and an operation canceling knob. Each selection button will be electrically connected to the smart relay  32  of the particular novel modular vending machine for packaged goods  200  that contains packaged goods  140  that correspond to the product indicated on the selection button. The configuration and operation of the user interface  308  is commonly known in the art of automated controls. 
     A fully loaded novel modular vending machine for packaged goods  200  in the fully loaded configuration is shown in  FIG. 3 . In this configuration, the upper conveyor assembly  88  is in the raised position and both the upper conveyor assembly  88  and lower conveyor assembly  82  are fully loaded with packaged goods  140 . When a vend is initiated the smart relay  32  activates the dispensing motor  40 . The dispensing motor  40  rotates the dispensing motor gear  36  in a clockwise direction (as viewed in  FIG. 3 ). The rotation from the dispensing motor gear  36  is imparted on the drive gear  56  causing the dispensing drum  52  to rotate in a clockwise direction (as viewed in  FIG. 3 ). The dispensing drum  52  transfers the packaged good  140  to a common conveyor  302  that delivers the packaged good  140  to the dispensing bin  304  for retrieval by the purchaser (Ref.  FIG. 13-14 ). As the dispensing drum  52  rotates to transfer the packaged good  140 , the circular surface area of the dispensing drum  52  prevents the adjacent packaged good  140  from moving into position until the dispensing drum  52  makes a complete revolution. When the proximity sensor indicator  62  is adjacent to the proximity sensor  60  (Ref. FIGS.  1 , 3 , and  7 ), the proximity sensor  60  signals the smart relay  32  that the dispensing drum  52  has made a complete revolution. Upon receipt of the signal, the smart relay  32  deactivates the dispensing motor  40  thereby stopping the rotation of the dispensing drum  52 . The notched recess  53  of the dispensing drum  52  is oriented for the next packaged good  140  to slide into position on the dispensing drum  52  for the next vend. The packaged good  140  moves under the force of gravity. This process is repeated for a preset number of iterations as determined by the programming of the smart relay  32 . When the preset number of iterations occurs, the smart relay  32  signals the first relay  34  to retract the linear actuator  104  (Ref.  FIG. 10 , View B). The retraction of the linear actuator  104  causes the lift assembly  102  to lower the upper conveyor assembly  88  onto the lower conveyor assembly  82  so that the packaged goods  140  on the upper conveyor assembly  88  can be dispensed (Ref.  FIG. 4 ). 
     The preset number of iterations is determined by the number of packaged goods  140  that can be stored on the lower conveyor assembly  82 . The number of packaged goods  140  that can be stored on the lower conveyor assembly  82  varies with the size of the packaged goods  140 . For example, in  FIG. 3  a maximum number of nine packaged goods can be stored on the lower conveyor assembly  82  while one packaged good  140  is located on the dispensing drum  52 . Accordingly, the preset number of iterations is nine for the size of the packaged goods  140  shown in  FIG. 3 . In this embodiment, the smart relay  32  signals the first relay  34  to retract the linear actuator  104  when the dispensing drum  52  makes nine revolutions (or vends nine of the packaged goods  140 ). This programmable feature of the smart relay  32  allows the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods  200  to be adapted to dispense packaged goods  140  of various sizes. 
     When the upper conveyor assembly  88  is in the lowered position, the packaged goods  140  on the upper conveyor assembly  88  are ready to be dispensed. In this configuration, the smart relay  32  signals the dispensing motor  40  to drive the dispensing drum  52  one revolution. No counter is utilized as the packaged goods  140  are dispensed from the upper conveyor assembly  88 . Instead, the photoelectric eye receiver  76  (Ref.  FIG. 1 ) senses that the lower conveyor assembly  82  is empty when a packaged good  140  is not present to block the signal from the photoelectric eye transmitter  74  for a continuous ten-second time period. Other time periods may be utilized to attain this result. When this condition is met, the smart relay  32  “locks” the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods  200  so that no vends can be initiated for that specific module. When the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods  200  is “locked,” the reset button  38  and a “sold out” indicator light, located on the selection button on the user interface  308  (Ref.  FIG. 13 ), are illuminated. When the reset button  38  is pressed, the smart relay  32  signals the second relay  36  to extend the linear actuator  104 , thereby raising the upper conveyor assembly  88  to the raised position (Ref.  FIG. 3 ). Depressing the reset button  38  also resets the preset counter in the smart relay  32  to zero and discontinues the illumination of the reset button  38  and “sold out” indicator light. In this configuration, the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods  200  is ready to be reloaded. Reloading is performed by placing the packaged goods  140  onto the posterior end of the upper conveyor assembly  88  and lower conveyor assembly  82  (Ref.  FIG. 2 ). The reset button  38  can be depressed at any time, whether the device is partially or totally empty. Pressing the reset button  38  allows the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods  200  to be reloaded to the full configuration. 
     As shown in  FIG. 12 , the retainer plate  80  retains the lowermost packaged good  140  on the upper conveyor assembly  88  in position while the upper conveyor assembly  88  is raised and lowered. View  12 A shows the retainer plate  80  interface with the lowermost packaged good  140  located on the upper conveyor assembly  88  in the raised position. If the upper conveyor assembly  88  is in the process of being lowered onto the lower conveyor assembly  82 , the lowermost packaged good  140  on the upper conveyor assembly  88  is retained in place until the upper conveyor assembly  88  is completely lowered onto the lower conveyor assembly  82 . Then, the lowermost packaged good  140  is positioned to move onto the dispensing drum  52  after another vend occurs (Ref. View  12 B). If the upper conveyor assembly  88  needs to be raised for maintenance or restocking purposes, the retainer plate  80  retains the adjacent packaged good  140  in position while the upper conveyor assembly  88  is raised. 
     The previously described versions of the present invention have many advantages. For example, the invention is designed so that the size, weight, and configuration of the components can accommodate heavy packaged goods in a cost effective and reliable manner. The width of the cabinet  20  is minimized because it is only required to be slightly wider than the largest product to be sold. This is effectuated by mounting the lower rollers  84  directly to the walls of the cabinet  20 , by designing the upper conveyor assembly  88  to pivotally attach directly to the walls of the cabinet  20 , and by positioning the first lift bar  128  and second lift bar  130  on the outside of the cabinet  20 . 
     The use of the rollers  90  on the upper conveyor assembly  88  and the roller  84  on the lower conveyor assembly  82  coupled with the inclined positioning of these assemblies allows the packaged goods  140  to move into the vending position solely by the force of gravity. This limits the energized components used to transfer the packaged goods  140  to the dispensing motor  40  and linear actuator  104 , both of which utilize mechanical advantages to reduce the forces required to effectuate their purposes. For example, the linear actuator  104  utilizes the lever  112  to provide a mechanical advantage as it raises and lowers the upper conveyor assembly  88 . As for the dispensing motor  40 , it utilizes mechanical advantages gained by the size, shape, and positioning of the dispensing drum  52 . As the dispensing drum  52  rotates, the packaged good  140  is essentially lowered onto the common conveyor  302 . As a result of these design features, the dispensing motor  40  and linear actuator  104  are smaller, less expensive, and more energy efficient. The energy efficiencies of these components allows the novel modular vending machine for packaged goods  200  to operate on standard 110 V AC electrical power. 
     Another advantage of the invention is that it imparts minimal disturbance and agitation to the packaged goods  140  thereby minimizing the likelihood of damage to the product. The packaged good  140  that is located on the dispensing drum  52  is placed onto the common conveyor  302  by the rotation of the dispensing drum  52 . This rotational movement allows the packaged good  140  to be placed on the common conveyor  302  with minimal agitation. The packaged goods  140  that remain in storage on the lower conveyor assembly  82  (or upper conveyor assembly  88 ) shift into position by the force of gravity. The rate of movement of these items is controlled by limiting the angle of inclination of the lower conveyor assembly  82  and upper conveyor assembly  88 . 
     Yet another advantage of the invention is that it is easy for an individual to reload the somewhat bulky and heavy packaged goods. The posterior end of the invention is designed to provide unobstructed access to the lower conveyor assembly  82  and upper conveyor assembly  88 . Although the lift heights required to reload these conveyor assemblies may vary based upon application, it is anticipated that the maximum lift height will be approximately five and a half feet. 
     The invention is also advantageous because it utilizes a reduced number of moving parts, thereby reducing the likelihood of component failure that could cause a packaged good  140  to become jammed. The components that are most likely to need service are positioned in locations that allow easy access for repair, maintenance, or replacement. For example, the dispensing motor  40  is located at the lower posterior end of the cabinet  20 . The dispensing motor  40  may be removed by relieving the tension on the drive chain  44  and detaching the dispensing motor  40  from the base  26 . Similarly, the electronic controls such as the smart relay  32 , the first relay  34 , and the second relay  36  are assembled in a modular fashion. This modular arrangement allows for simultaneous replacement of all of these components in the field, thereby minimizing operational down time if an electrical component malfunctions. 
     The invention is also versatile because it may be readily adaptable to accommodate various sizes of packaged goods  140 . This versatility is attained by adjusting the position of the retainer plate  80  and reprogramming the counter of the smart relay  32 . The position of the retainer plate  80  may be adjusted in the field. Likewise, the smart relay  32  may be reprogrammed in the field. Although these and other advantages may be present, the invention does not require that all the advantageous features and all the advantages need to be incorporated into every embodiment of the invention. 
     While the invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate numerous modifications and variations therefrom. It is intended that the appended claims cover all such modifications and variations as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention. Any element in a claim that does not explicitly state “means for” performing a specified function is not to be interpreted as a “means” clause as specified in 35 U.S.C. §112, ¶6.