VENDING MACHINE PRODUCT DELIVERY SYSTEM WITH VARIABLE RETRIEVAL SPEED

A vending machine comprises a chassis, a shelf system including a plurality of product rows, a plurality of product gates each coupled to an associated one of the plurality of product rows, a movable stage, a retrieval platform, and a vending machine controller coupled to at least one memory. The vending machine controller is configured to determine a product code and a storage location of a selected product for vending, retrieve, from the at least one memory, timing parameters associated with at least one of the product code or the storage location of the selected product, and control one or more timings of one of the plurality of product gates associated with the determined storage location of the selected product, based on the retrieved timing parameters, to release the selected product from the shelf system to the retrieval platform.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure is generally directed to vending machines. More specifically, the present disclosure is directed to a vending machine product delivery system with variable retrieval speed.

BACKGROUND

Vending machines include many complex mechanisms. Today, many vending machines include electronic systems to select, pay, and dispense a product. Also, many vending machines include complex electro-mechanical systems for delivery of the product from a storage location to a customer accessible product retrieval location. These delivery systems in some of the vending machines may not provide a smooth transition of the product from a column to an access port. In particular, the transition of the product from a column to a cup may be rough. Additionally, due to product proliferation in terms of size and shape, the ability to reliably retrieve and deliver a product in a vending machine has become difficult. As such, current vending machines are limited with respect to the types of products that can be vended.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure provides vending machine product delivery system with variable retrieval speed.

In one aspect thereof, a vending machine comprises a chassis, at least one shelf including a plurality of product rows, a plurality of product gates each coupled to an associated one of the plurality of product rows, a movable stage, a retrieval platform coupled to the movable stage, wherein the retrieval platform is operable to move to accept a product from one of the plurality of product rows, and a vending machine controller coupled to at least one memory. The vending machine controller is configured to determine a product code and a storage location of a selected product for vending, retrieve, from the at least one memory, timing parameters associated with at least one of the product code or the storage location of the selected product, and control one or more timings of one of the plurality of product gates associated with the determined storage location of the selected product, based on the retrieved timing parameters, to release the selected product from the at least one shelf to the retrieval platform.

In another aspect thereof, a vending machine comprises a chassis, at least one shelf system including a plurality of product rows, a plurality of product gates each coupled to an associated one of the plurality of product rows, a movable stage, a retrieval platform coupled to the movable stage, wherein the retrieval platform is operable to move to accept a product from one of the plurality of product rows, and a vending machine controller coupled to at least one memory. The vending machine controller is configured to determine a product code and a storage location of a selected product for vending, retrieve, from the at least one memory, timing parameters associated with at least one of the product code or the storage location of the selected product, and control one or more timings of one of the plurality of product gates associated with the determined storage location of the selected product, based on the retrieved timing parameters, to release the selected product from the at least one shelf system to the retrieval platform.

In some embodiments, the timing parameters include parameters for a gate opening speed, a gate open duration, and a gate closing speed.

In some embodiments, to control the one or more timings of the one of the plurality of product gates, the vending machine controller is further configured to modulate one or more pulse width modulation (PWM) signals, wherein each of the one or more PWM signals are associated with one of the gate opening speed, the gate open duration, and the gate closing speed.

In some embodiments, the timing parameters associated with the storage location of the selected product are based on dimensions of the at least one shelf system and an angle of one of the plurality of product rows associated with the storage location of the selected product.

In some embodiments, the timing parameters associated with the product code are based on at least one of shape or weight of a product type associated with the product code.

In some embodiments, the vending machine further comprises a pusher plate mounted on a sidewall of at least one product row of the plurality of product rows, wherein the pusher plate is operable to push products in the at least one product row towards an end of the at least one product row.

In some embodiments, the end of the at least one product row is associated with a retrieval location of the retrieval platform.

In some embodiments, the retrieval platform includes a surface disposed at a base of the retrieval platform, and wherein the retrieval platform is operable to rotate in a direction of the at least one shelf system when the movable stage positions the retrieval platform in relation to one of the plurality of product rows.

In some embodiments, each of the plurality of product gates includes a release mechanism operable to release a product from the associated one of the plurality of product rows when, due to the rotation of the retrieval platform, the surface of the retrieval platform depresses the release mechanism.

In some embodiments, an angle of the retrieval platform, when the retrieval platform rotates in the direction of the at least one shelf system, matches an angle of at least one of the plurality of product rows.

In another aspect thereof, a method of dispensing a product from a vending machine comprises receiving data on a selected product for vending, determining a product code and a storage location of a selected product for vending, retrieving timing parameters associated with at least one of the product code or the storage location of the selected product, moving a retrieval platform coupled to a moveable stage to a position to accept the selected product from one of a plurality of product rows of at least one shelf system of the vending machine, and controlling one or more timings of one of a plurality of product gates associated with the determined storage location of the selected product, based on the retrieved timing parameters, to release the selected product from the at least one shelf system to the retrieval platform, wherein each of the plurality of product gates are coupled to an associated one of the plurality of product rows.

In some embodiments, the timing parameters include parameters for a gate opening speed, a gate open duration, and a gate closing speed.

In some embodiments, controlling the one or more timings of the one of the plurality of product gates includes modulating one or more pulse width modulation (PWM) signals, wherein each of the one or more PWM signals are associated with one of the gate opening speed, the gate open duration, and the gate closing speed.

In some embodiments, the timing parameters associated with the storage location of the selected product are based on dimensions of the at least one shelf system and an angle of one of the plurality of product rows associated with the storage location of the selected product.

In some embodiments, the timing parameters associated with the product code are based on at least one of shape or weight of a product type associated with the product code.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises pushing, with a pusher plate mounted on a sidewall of at least one product row of the plurality of product rows, products in the at least one product row towards an end of the at least one product row.

In some embodiments, the end of the at least one product row is associated with a retrieval location of the retrieval platform.

In some embodiments, the retrieval platform includes a surface disposed at a base of the retrieval platform, and further comprising rotating the retrieval platform in a direction of the at least one shelf system when the movable stage positions the retrieval platform in the position to accept the selected product.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises depressing, by the surface of the retrieval platform when the retrieval platform rotates, a release mechanism of one of the plurality of product gates to release a product from the associated one of the plurality of product rows.

In some embodiments, an angle of the retrieval platform, when the retrieval platform rotates in the direction of the at least one shelf system, matches an angle of at least one of the plurality of product rows.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG.1illustrates a simplified perspective view of a vending machine100according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Vending machines come in a wide variety of configurations, andFIG.1does not limit the scope of the present disclosure to any particular implementation of a vending machine.

Vending machine100includes a chassis or cabinet101and a service door102that, together, define an enclosure. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG.1, the service door102is pivotally mounted to the front of the cabinet101and extends all the way across the front face of the vending machine100. In alternate embodiments, the service door may extend only part way across the front of the vending machine, or may be formed in two portions (of equal or unequal sizes) that swing open in opposite directions. In alternate embodiments, the service door may slide open and allow customer to access products. In alternate embodiments, the vending machine may not have a service door.

In the embodiment illustrated inFIG.1, the service door102includes a customer user interface103, illustrated as a touch screen liquid crystal display (LCD) display. A payment system104is mounted within the service door102and includes one or more of a bill validator, a coin acceptor and/or a credit or debit card reader. The payment system104receives currency, coins or other forms of payment from the customer and returns change as necessary.FIG.1also depicts an access port105to a delivery receptacle mounted within the service door102or in the cabinet101. The access port105may have a delivery door or other mechanical system (e.g., rotatable delivery receptacle open on one side) for controlling or restricting access by the customer into the delivery receptacle, the interior of the vending machine, or both. Those skilled in the art will recognize that in some vending machines, particularly helical coil snack vending machines, the access port105may be located near the bottom of the vending machine and extend across most of the width of the machine, below a large glass window allowing the contents within the cabinet to be viewed or a large liquid crystal display selectively presenting images of products available for vending or advertisements. Other vending machines, in particular beverage vending machines, have X-Y product retrieval and delivery mechanisms and a glass front or large liquid crystal display, but may include an access port105to the side as shown inFIG.1, at a height convenient to the customer for product retrieval.

FIG.2illustrates a simplified perspective view illustrating a vending machine200implementing a plurality of release mechanisms202a. . .202neach for a plurality of gates204a. . .204naccording to embodiments of the present disclosure. Vending machines come in a wide variety of configurations, andFIG.2does not limit the scope of the present disclosure to any particular implementation of a vending machine. The components of the vending machine200could be used with the vending machine100as shown inFIG.1

The vending machine cabinet101houses a plurality of product trays206a. . .206n,each including a plurality of product columns208a,208b. . .208n.For every product column208a,there is at least one gate204a.The plurality of gates204a. . .204nmay be, but not limited to, double gates (as shown inFIG.2with one gate on each side of the product201), cylindrical barriers, bars, rotational containers, and other types of barriers. The gates may be connected to a sidewall, such as sidewall207.

In certain embodiments, for each gate204a,there may be a release mechanism202a.The release mechanism202acan be manual or automatic. For example, release mechanism202acan be motor with a gearbox, a knob, a lever, a solenoid, or some other suitable device. During a purchase of a product201, the release mechanism202amay interact with gate204athat is restraining the product201located in column208a.The release mechanism may interact with one or more gates that restrain products in a column. The interaction may allow the product201to move past gate204a.The release mechanism202acan be activated by a platform220.

In certain embodiments, for each tray206a,there is a release mechanism202a.At each column, release mechanism202acan release a product by interacting with a gate. As shown in this example embodiment, platform220is coupled to a movable stage219and is configured to move to a product via the movable stage219for vending of the product. In response to a user selection and a vend command, the movable stage219moves horizontally to a location associated with a product column208a,208b. . .208n,and platform220moves vertically along the movable stage219to a product to collect the product by activating the release mechanism202aand capturing the product once released from the column. The platform220then moves to and dispenses the product into access port105for customer retrieval.

FIGS.3A-3Fillustrate various views of a tilting platforms according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Tilting platforms can come in a wide variety of configurations, andFIGS.3A-3Fdo not limit the scope of the present disclosure to any particular implementation of a tilting platform. The tilting platforms illustrated could be used with the vending machine100as shown inFIG.1, or the vending machine200as shown inFIG.2.

FIG.3Aillustrates a tilting platform302in a product retrieval position according to embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG.3Billustrates the tilting platform302in an initial position according to embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG.3Cillustrates another tilting platform322retrieving a snack and in a product retrieval position according to embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG.3Dillustrates the tilting platform322ofFIG.3Cin an initial position according to embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG.3Eillustrates another tilting platform342retrieving a bottle and in a product retrieval position according to embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG.3Fillustrates the tilting platform342ofFIG.3Ein an initial position according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

As illustrated inFIGS.3A and3B, the tilting platform302has a shelf or “L” bracket that can be referred to as a base304of the tilting platform302. The tilting platform302can tilt out from an initial position306to a tilted position308to accept a product310from a plurality of products312included on a product tray314. The initial position306can be, for example, a vertical position (as shown inFIG.2). The tilting platform302can be more stable and follow a path of motion of the falling product310. To move the base304of the tilting platform302into the tilted position308, the base304can move out towards the product tray314into the tilted position308. The tilted position308can also be referred to as a receiving position.

In some vending machine systems, when receiving a product, such as a canned drink, as shown for example inFIGS.3A and3B, from a column or a product tray into a non-tilting platform or dispenser having a horizontal base, the product may tilt or bridge. Bridging occurs when the top of a product tilts during the vending process and is unable to move from the tray into the dispenser. The top of the product is in the dispenser and the bottom of the product remains in the tray, “bridging” the gap between the two. Tilting and bridging lead to failed product exchanges from the tray to the dispenser. Tilting and bridging in a non-tilted platform can happen due to the product transitioning from an angled product tray into a horizontal platform base. A tilted platform, such as tilting platform302, allows the product to follow the path of motion of a falling product (e.g., a can), eliminating the tilting and bridging.

The angle of the base304in the tilted position308can be similar to that of the angle of the column, or the portion of the column located nearest to the base. This angle of the tilting platform302when in the tilted position308can cause the base304of the tilting platform to be in line with the product tray314such that the product310can slide straight into the tilting platform302without any tilting or bridging of the product310. When the tilting platform302receives the product310, a base of the product310sits atop base304of the tilting platform302, and sides of the product310can rest against one or side walls of the tilting platform302. The tilting platform302then returns to the initial position306for delivery of the product310. In some embodiments, the tilting platform302travels to or near an access port, such as access port105, to deposit the product310into the access port to allow a user to retrieve the product310from the access port105.

As illustrated inFIGS.3C and3D, the tilting platform322, like the tilting platform302, includes a shelf or “L” bracket that can be referred to as a base324of the tilting platform322. The tilting platform322can tilt out from an initial position326to a tilted position328to accept a product330from a plurality of products332included on a product tray334. The initial position326can be, for example, a vertical position (as shown inFIG.2). The tilting platform322can be more stable and follow a path of motion of the falling product330. To move the base324of the tilting platform322into the tilted position328, the base324can move out towards the product tray334into the tilted position328. The tilted position328can also be referred to as a receiving position.

In some vending machine systems, when receiving a product, such as a less rigid product such as a food item packaged in a bag or plastic wrapping, such as shown for example inFIGS.3C and3D, from a column or a product tray into a non-tilting platform or dispenser having a horizontal base, the product may tilt, bridge, or otherwise fall over. Tilting and bridging lead to failed product exchanges from the tray to the dispenser. Tilting and bridging in a non-tilted platform can happen due to the product transitioning from an angled product tray into a horizontal platform base. Although bagged or other packaged food items can have different weights, dimensions, and characteristics, the various embodiments of the present disclosure provide for gates that, in a closed position, hold products and then suddenly release and drop the products into a dispensing mechanism such as the tilted platform322, allowing products to slide straight into the dispensing mechanism. A tilted platform, such as tilting platform322, allows the product to follow the path of motion of a falling product (e.g., a bag), eliminating the tilting and bridging.

The angle of the base324in the tilted position328can be similar to that of the angle of the column, or the portion of the column located nearest to the base. This angle of the tilting platform322when in the tilted position328can cause the base324of the tilting platform to be in line with the product tray334such that the product330can slide straight into the tilting platform322without any tilting or bridging of the product330. When the tilting platform322receives the product330, a base of the product330sits atop base324of the tilting platform322, and sides of the product330can rest against one or side walls of the tilting platform322. The tilting platform322then returns to the initial position326for delivery of the product330. In some embodiments, the tilting platform322travels to or near an access port, such as access port105, to deposit the product330into the access port to allow a user to retrieve the product330from the access port105.

As illustrated inFIGS.3E and3F, the tilting platform342, like the tilting platforms302and322, includes a shelf or “L” bracket that can be referred to as a base344of the tilting platform342. The tilting platform342can tilt out from an initial position346to a tilted position348to accept a product350from a plurality of products352included on a product tray354. The initial position346can be, for example, a vertical position (as shown inFIG.2). The tilting platform342can be more stable and follow a path of motion of the falling product350. To move the base344of the tilting platform342into the tilted position348, the base344can move out towards the product tray354into the tilted position348. The tilted position348can also be referred to as a receiving position.

In some vending machine systems, when receiving a product, such as product with non-uniform weight distribution, such as a bottle having a heavier bottom portion than the top elongated bottle neck portion, such as shown for example inFIGS.3E and3F, from a column or a product tray into a non-tilting platform or dispenser having a horizontal base, the product may tilt, bridge, or otherwise fall over. Tilting and bridging lead to failed product exchanges from the tray to the dispenser. Tilting and bridging in a non-tilted platform can happen due to the product transitioning from an angled product tray into a horizontal platform base. Although bottled items can have different weights, dimensions, and characteristics, the various embodiments of the present disclosure provide for gates that, in a closed position, hold products and then suddenly release and drop the products into a dispensing mechanism such as the tilted platform342, allowing products to slide straight into the dispensing mechanism. A tilted platform, such as tilting platform342, allows the product to follow the path of motion of a falling product (e.g., a bottle), eliminating the tilting and bridging.

The angle of the base344in the tilted position348can be similar to that of the angle of the column, or the portion of the column located nearest to the base. This angle of the tilting platform342when in the tilted position348can cause the base344of the tilting platform to be in line with the product tray354such that the product350can slide straight into the tilting platform342without any tilting or bridging of the product350. When the tilting platform342receives the product350, a base of the product350sits atop base344of the tilting platform342, and sides of the product350can rest against one or side walls of the tilting platform342. The tilting platform342then returns to the initial position346for delivery of the product350. In some embodiments, the tilting platform342travels to or near an access port, such as access port105, to deposit the product350into the access port to allow a user to retrieve the product350from the access port105.

In some vending machine systems, when receiving a product, such as product with non-uniform weight distribution, such as a box having a heavier side portion than rest of the box, such as a salad dressing on a side of a box or a meal box with salad and say a sandwich on separate side of a box, from a column or a product tray into a non-tilting platform or dispenser having a horizontal base, the product may tilt, bridge, or otherwise fall over. Tilting and bridging lead to failed product exchanges from the tray to the dispenser. Tilting and bridging in a non-tilted platform can happen due to the product transitioning from an angled product tray into a horizontal platform base. Although bottled items can have different weights, dimensions, and characteristics, the various embodiments of the present disclosure provide for gates that, in a closed position, hold products and then suddenly release and drop the products into a dispensing mechanism such as the tilted platform342, allowing products to slide straight into the dispensing mechanism. A tilted platform, such as tilting platform342, allows the product to follow the path of motion of a falling product (e.g., a box), eliminating the tilting and bridging.

FIGS.4A and4Billustrate a tilting platform402according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Tilting platforms can come in a wide variety of configurations, andFIGS.4A and4Bdo not limit the scope of the present disclosure to any particular implementation of a tilting platform. The tilting platform402could be used with the vending machine100as shown inFIG.1, or the vending machine200as shown inFIG.2.

FIG.4Aillustrates a tilting platform402in a position to receive a product from a product tray according to embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG.4Billustrates a tilting platform402in receipt of a product from a product tray according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

The tilting platform402has a shelf or “L” bracket that can be referred to as a base404of the tilting platform402. The tilting platform402can tilt out from an initial position (not shown) to a tilted position408to accept a product410from a plurality of products412included on a product tray414. The initial position can be, for example, a vertical position (such as shown inFIGS.2and3B). To move the base404of the tilting platform402into the tilted position408, the base404can move out towards the product tray414into the tilted position408. The tilted position408can also be referred to as a receiving position according to the present disclosure.

The angle of the base404in the tilted position408in some embodiments can be lower than that of the angle of the column and product tray414, or the portion of the column located nearest to the base. For example, the angle of the base404can be near 45 degrees from the product tray414, as shown inFIGS.4A and4B. This angle of the tilting platform402when in the tilted position408causes the product410to fall into the tilting platform without any tilting of the top of the product410against the tilting platform402or any bridging of the product410. The tilting platform402then can return to the initial position for delivery of the product. In some embodiments, the tilting platform402travels to near an access port, such as access port105, to deposit the product410into the access port to allow a user to retrieve the product410. It will be understood that other titled platforms disclosed herein such as tilted platforms322and342can also move to a position similar to tilted position408as shown inFIGS.4A and4B, depending on the needs of the system and the types of products to be dispensed, such as bagged food items or bottled drink items.

FIGS.5A-5Jillustrate a tilting platform apparatus500according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Tilting platform apparatuses can come in a wide variety of configurations, andFIGS.5A-5Jdo not limit the scope of the present disclosure to any particular implementation of a tilting platform apparatus. The tilting platform apparatus500could be used with the vending machine100as shown inFIG.1, or the vending machine200as shown inFIG.2.

FIG.5Aillustrates a side view of the tilting platform apparatus500in an initial position,FIG.5Billustrates a rear perspective view of the tilting platform apparatus500in the initial position,FIG.5Cillustrates a rear perspective view of the tilting platform apparatus500in the initial position with a bottom cover removed exposing a motor; andFIG.5Dillustrates a cross sectional view of the tilting platform apparatus500in the initial position.FIG.5Eillustrates a side view of the tilting platform apparatus500in a mid-way position andFIG.5Fillustrates a cross sectional view of the tilting platform apparatus500in the mid-way position.FIG.5Gillustrates a side view of the tilting platform apparatus500in a retrieval position,FIG.5Hillustrates a rear perspective view of the tilting platform apparatus500in the retrieval position, andFIG.5Iillustrates a cross sectional view of the tilting platform apparatus500in the retrieval position.FIG.5Jillustrates a rear perspective view of the tilting platform apparatus500in a product ejection position.

The tilting platform apparatus500includes a frame502on which a plate504is rotatably coupled at a pivot point505. A product catch506resides next to the plate504with a bottom of the product catch506disposed on top of a surface508. In some embodiments, the frame502may be coupled to a movable stage, such as movable stage219. In some embodiments, the product catch506may be directly or indirectly coupled to the movable stage. The connection to the plate504can constrain the motion of the surface508. This allows the product catch506to travel with the plate504and the surface508. The product catch506can be rectangular in shape with three sides closed and one open side for receiving a product from a tray in a vending machine. The product catch506can be transparent in some embodiments to allow a user of the vending machine to see the drink being delivered through the product catch506. However, in other embodiments, the product catch506could be opaque.

The plate504includes a hinge510near a top of the plate504. Tabs512of the product catch506are installed on the hinge510. A ledge511at the top of the product catch506opposite the hinge510can come into contact with a wall or other component within the vending machine as the tilting platform apparatus travels down towards an access port, such as access port105. When the ledge511comes into contact with a wall or other component in the vending machine the tabs512of the product catch506rotate around the hinge510, rotating the product catch506out and away from the surface508to a product ejection position514. The product ejection position514causes a product to be swept off the surface508, where a bottom of the product is resting, by the product catch506and into an access port, such as access port105, for retrieval by a user of the vending machine. In other embodiments, the product catch506extends out from the frame502without rotating, in order to deliver the product to the access port. For example, the product catch506can have an extendable arm coupled between the product catch506and the frame502, or another component of the tilting platform apparatus500. The extendable arm may, by operation of the motor or another mechanism, extend horizontally from the tilting platform apparatus500such that the product catch506slides sideways, without rotating, off the surface508and out over the access port, causing the product to be swept off the surface508and into the access port.

The tilting platform apparatus500further includes a rotation motor516that can be enclosed within a housing518in a bottom portion of the tilting platform apparatus500that is below the surface508. The rotation motor516rotates a gear520that meshes with teeth522of a hinged plate524, as illustrated inFIGS.5D,5F, and5I. The hinged plate524includes a pivot point526near a front of the tilting platform apparatus500. The pivot point526can be a hole in the hinged plate524through which a bolt or other fixation device can be installed. The hinged plate524also includes a curved slot528near a top of the hinged plate524through which another fixation device530is installed. The fixation device530is also installed through a frame slot532of the frame502of the tilting platform apparatus500. The fixation device530is connected between the hinged plate524and the plate504on the other side of the frame502, with the fixation device530traveling through the curved slot528of the hinged plate524and through the frame slot532. In some embodiments, the fixation device530can be connected to the surface508.

As the rotation motor516rotates the gear520meshed with the teeth522, the hinged plate524rotates around the pivot point526, while the fixation device530moves within both the curved slot528and the frame slot532, pushing the plate504forward and causing the plate504to rotate around the pivot point505. In other embodiments, the tilting platform apparatus500may slide forward instead of rotating. For example, the motor may instead push the surface508or the plate504forward at or near pivot point505or at or near the frame slot532. For instance, the frame slot532may be a horizontal slot rather than a curved slot, with the fixation device530sliding forward through the horizontal slot such that the platform moves forward rather than rotating.FIGS.5A-5Dillustrates the plate504in an initial position. The initial position allows for a product to rest on the surface508and travel with the tilting platform apparatus500, and the initial position also allows the tilting platform apparatus500to travel through a vending machine without coming into contact with other components in the vending machine. The plate504rotates from the initial position to a retrieval position, as illustrated inFIGS.5G-5I, passing a mid-way position as illustrated inFIGS.5E and5F. As illustrated inFIG.5I, to move to the retrieval position, the hinged plate524rotates forward, with the teeth522traveling across the gear520until reaching an end of the teeth522. At the retrieval position, the surface508can contact a release mechanism such as release mechanisms202a. . .202nofFIG.2. Depressing the release mechanism releases a product onto the surface508. The plate504can then be rotated back to the initial position, now holding a product for delivery to a user of the vending machine. The hinged plate524provides for product retrieval that is configured to rotate about an X-axis while the hinge510rotates about a Z-axis.

FIGS.6A-6Dillustrate a product retrieval mechanism600according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Product retrieval mechanisms can come in a wide variety of configurations, andFIGS.6A-6Ddo not limit the scope of the present disclosure to any particular implementation of a product retrieval mechanism. The product retrieval mechanism600could be used with the vending machine100as shown inFIG.1, or the vending machine200as shown inFIG.2.

FIG.6Aillustrates a front perspective view of a product retrieval mechanism600in a closed position according to embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG.6Billustrates a side view of the product retrieval mechanism600in the closed position according to embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG.6Cillustrates a front perspective view of the product retrieval mechanism600in the open position according to embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG.6Dillustrates a side view of the product retrieval mechanism600in the open position according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

The product retrieval mechanism600includes gates602. The gates602serve to restrict products stored on a product column or a tray604from falling off the tray604. The products can stand in a row between brackets606, as the products move towards the end of the tray604. Each of the gates602is installed on one of the brackets606. Each of the gates602includes a first panel608and a second panel610connected by a hinge612. The first panel608can be fixed to the front of one of the brackets606and the second panel can be slidably fixed to a top of the bracket through one or more slots614. A release mechanism616(e.g., a button) is disposed in an open space in the tray604and below the gates602and the brackets606.

A tilted platform base, such as surface508ofFIGS.5A-5J, can depress the release mechanism616to open the gates602. When the release mechanism616is depressed (i.e., activated), the gates602can move from a closed position shown inFIGS.6A and6Bto an open position shown inFIGS.6C and6Dto allow product vending. The gates move between the closed position and the open position by extending down a length of the brackets606, and through the slots614, causing the panels608and610to press inward via the hinge612towards the brackets606and away from products on the tray604. Thus, in the open position, the gates602flatten, allowing a product to escape and fall into a tilting platform. In various embodiments, the tilting platform can rotate forward to depress the release mechanism616and open the gates602. In various embodiments, a shelf that is moved by a gear can extend outward to activate (i.e., depress) the release mechanism616. In different embodiments, the mechanism restraining the product can be, in addition to a gate, cylindrical barriers, bars, rotational containers, and other types of barriers.

FIGS.7A and7Billustrate the tilting platform apparatus500interacting with product retrieval mechanism600according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Tilting platform apparatuses and product retrieval mechanisms can come in a wide variety of configurations, andFIGS.7A and7Bdo not limit the scope of the present disclosure to any particular implementation of a tilting platform apparatus or product retrieval mechanism. The tilting platform apparatus500and the product retrieval mechanism600could be used with the vending machine100as shown inFIG.1, or the vending machine200as shown inFIG.2. It should be understood that other titling platforms and product retrieval mechanisms provided by the present disclosure can be substituted into the vending machine illustrated inFIGS.7A and7B.

FIG.7Aillustrates a side view of the tilting platform apparatus500in an initial position before interacting with the product retrieval mechanism600according to embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG.7Billustrates a side view of the tilting platform apparatus500in product retrieval position interacting with the product retrieval mechanism600according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

As illustrated inFIG.7A, the tilting platform apparatus500in the initial position can move in front of a tray604containing one or more products702. The one or more products702can be held on the tray604by the gates602. As illustrated inFIG.7B, when the plate504is rotated against the frame502as described in the present disclosure, the surface508comes into contact with and depresses the release mechanism616, causing the gates602to open, releasing one of the one or more products702. The one of the one or more products702falls onto the surface508, and is surrounded by the product catch506on three sides, to keep the product securely on the surface508while the tilting platform apparatus travels through the vending machine to dispense the one of the one or more products702to a user of the vending machine. Dispensing the product702can be performed by the tilting platform apparatus500moving to the ejection position as shown inFIG.5Jto drop the product into an access port, such as access port105.

FIGS.8A and8Billustrate the tilting platform apparatus500engaging a discharge frame800according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Discharge frames can come in a wide variety of configurations, andFIGS.8A and8Bdo not limit the scope of the present disclosure to any particular implementation of a discharge frame. The discharge frame800could be used with the vending machine100as shown inFIG.1, or the vending machine200as shown inFIG.2.

FIG.8Aillustrates a rear view of the tilting platform apparatus500positioned above a discharge frame800according to embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG.8Billustrates a rear view of the tilting platform apparatus500engaging the discharge frame800according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

The discharge frame800is disposed at a location in a vending machine near an access port802. The discharge frame800includes a discharge ledge804secured to a wall of the vending machine. As the tilting platform apparatus500moves down towards the discharge frame800, the ledge511of the product catch506comes into contact with the discharge ledge804, causing the product catch506to rotate via the tabs512secured around the hinge510. The rotation of the product catch506causes the product catch506to rotate up and away from the surface508, where a product can be resting, into the product ejection position. The rotation thus causes the side of the product catch506that is near the plate504to come into contact with a product and push the product off the surface508and into the access port802. The tilting platform apparatus500can then move back up, causing the ledge511to cease contacting the discharge ledge804. Once the ledge511ceases contact with the discharge ledge804, the product catch506can then rotate back to the initial position.

FIG.9illustrates a side mounted damper assembly900according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Damper assemblies can come in a wide variety of configurations, andFIG.9does not limit the scope of the present disclosure to any particular implementation of a damper assembly. The damper assembly900could be used with the vending machine100as shown inFIG.1, or the vending machine200as shown inFIG.2.

The damper assembly900includes a pusher plate902installed on a bracket or sidewall904of a product tray906. The pusher plate902can have a spring installed thereon to provide a movement force to the pusher plate902. The sidewall904can also include a recessed lane908having a rack geometry910that includes teeth oriented into the recessed lane908. Sides of a gear damper within the pusher plate902can be disposed within the recessed lane908such that teeth of the gear damper face, and mesh with, the teeth of the rack geometry910. The pusher plate902extends sideways from the sidewall904such that the pusher plate902is disposed above the product tray906. As the pusher plate902travels along the sidewall904, the pusher plate902contacts products on the product tray906to push the products towards a front of the product tray906for dispensing within a vending machine. The damper assembly900provides constant force via the spring to push products along the product tray906. In some embodiments, the product tray906can be disposed at a particular angle, such as three degrees, while the force of the pusher plate902can be increased by using a rotary damper, to help alleviate tipping of products on the product tray906.

FIGS.10A-10Cillustrates various views of a shelf system1000according to embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG.10Aillustrates a front perspective view of the shelf system1000according to embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG.10Billustrates an enlarged view of a portion of the shelf system1000according to embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG.10Cillustrates a side perspective view of a product gate1001of the shelf system1000according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Vending machine shelf systems can come in a wide variety of configurations, andFIGS.10A-10Cdo not limit the scope of the present disclosure to any particular implementation of a shelf system. The shelf system1000could be used with the vending machine100as shown inFIG.1, or the vending machine200as shown inFIG.2.

The shelf system1000includes a plurality of product gates1001and pusher plates1002as described herein, such as with respect toFIGS.6A-6DandFIG.9. Sidewalls1004separate shelf rows or trays1006from each other, with each shelf row1006operable to maintain a plurality of products. Each shelf row1006has a button1005for opening the product gates1001when a product retrieval platform presses the button1005. As described in the various embodiments herein, when a product retrieval platform presses one of the buttons1005, the corresponding product gates open to allow a frontmost product to be deposited into the product retrieval platform. Using a gate1001at the front of the product row1006that both opens to allow a product to be dispensed, and closes to catch and maintain remaining products in the product row1006prevents issues in other vending machines that use both a product release gate and a product catching gate. For example, using both a release gate and a catching gate can result in products being caught and stuck in the catching gate, which can prevent or limit further vending of products.

In some embodiments, the product can slide by the force of gravity into the product retrieval platform when the product gates1001open. In some embodiments, the shelf system1000can be disposed at an angle matching the angle of the retrieval platform so that the products smoothly slide from the shelf system1000into the product retrieval platform. In some embodiments, the pusher plate1002can operate when the gates1001open to push the products down the product row1006towards the retrieval platform at a rate such that the frontmost product is deposited into the retrieval platform, and the gates1001close due to the retrieval platform releasing the button1005before a second product passes through the gates1001. In some embodiments, the shelf system1000or the product can be disposed at a small angle, such as three degrees, while the force of the pusher plate1002can be increased by using a rotary damper that pushes the product into the retrieval platform, which helps alleviate tipping of products on the product tray1006.

FIG.11illustrates a flowchart of a variable retrieval speed process1100according to embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG.11does not limit the scope of this disclosure to any particular embodiments. While the flowchart depicts a series of sequential steps, unless explicitly stated, no inference should be drawn from that sequence regarding specific order of performance, performance of steps or portions thereof serially rather than concurrently or in an overlapping manner, or performance of the steps depicted exclusively without the occurrence of intervening or intermediate steps. It will be understood that the process1100is described with respect to a processor of the vending machine100, or the vending machine200. However, the process1100can be used with any other suitable device(s) and in any suitable system.

At block1102, the processor loads data indicating timing parameters for various combinations of products and shelves provided to the vending machine in memory. The timing parameters can include different timings for opening gates, duration that gates remain open, and closing gates. The timing parameters can be stored in association with certain products, certain vending machine shelf types, or both. For example, the timing parameters provided to the vending machine and stored in memory can be customized for a particular product or product type, such as defining how quickly to open a gate, how long to keep a gate open, and how quickly to close a gate, for the specific product. For instance, products can have different sizes and weights that can affect how quickly the products slide down a product row once a gate is opened. Heavier products that slide more quickly, for example, can have associated therewith timings for a smaller opening duration and a faster closing speed of the gate. In some cases, it may be that products slide quickly, but there is found to be a delay in which the product begins sliding. In such cases, the gate may be open for a longer duration to allow the products to begin sliding, but the gate closes quickly to prevent other fast sliding products from passing through the gate.

In a similar manner, gate timing can be controlled based on the type of product shelf or product rows, such as if a shelf or a product row includes certain dimensions, or if the shelf or product row is disposed at a particular angle within the vending machine. For example, if the shelf is disposed at a forty-five degree angle, products may slide down the product row faster than if the shelf is disposed at a three degree angle. Therefore, the timings for that shelf having that particular angle can be adjusted such that, for instance, the gate is open for a short duration and closes quickly to prevent subsequent products from also sliding through the gate. The timings can further be adjusted to account for both product type and shelf type. It will be understood that the above examples are merely for illustrating the types of gate timings that can be implemented, and do not limit this disclosure to any particular timings. A plurality of different timings can be used based on the products and the shelf or product row configuration.

At block1104, the processor loads data indicating the locations of stocked products, and product codes associated with the stocked products. Thus, at block1102, the timing parameters on various types of products and product locations can be stored ahead of time, but the timing parameters for these products and product locations are not necessarily specific to any currently stocked products. The timing parameters are stored such that they are available, and then, once the data indicating locations and product codes of stocked products is provided at block1104, the timing parameters for those stocked products and their associated locations can be retrieved based on the previously stored timing parameters. In some embodiments, the timing parameters can be loaded at the same time as the data is loaded indicating the locations of stocked products and their product codes.

At block1106, the processor receives a selection of a product to vend, such as column and row numbers, and/or letters, associated with locations in the vending machine. At block1108, the processor determines a product code and location for the selected product based on the data loaded at block1104and based on the product selected at block1106. In some embodiments, instead of receiving numeric or alpha-numeric indicators, the vending machine can include buttons or other user input components that each include an image or picture of a product, or otherwise identifies a product by name, flavor, or other identifier. Each of the buttons or other user input components is associated with a product stored in the memory of the vending machine in association with one or more product locations in the vending machine. Upon selection of a button or other user input component, at block1108, the processor determines the product or product code associated with the button or other user input component, and determines a location for the selected product based on the selected product and based on the data loaded at block1104. At decision block1110, the processor determines whether timing parameters are stored for the selected product and/or the associated storage location of the product. If not, the process1100moves to block1112, in which the processor retrieves default gate timing parameters to use. The process1100then moves to block1116.

If, at decision block1110, the processor determines that timing parameters are stored for the product and/or the product's location, the process1100moves to block1114. At block1114, the processor retrieves timing parameters for the product and/or the product location. At block1116, the processor modulates one or more pulse width modulation (“PWM”) signals to control the timing of a product gate associated with the product and the product's location. In some embodiments, other control methods can be used, such as variable voltage or current methods. For example, the processor can modulate the PWM signals to control any or all of a gate open speed, a gate open duration, and a gate close speed. As described herein, altering gate open and close speeds, and gate open duration, allows for products of various types to be dispensed effectively and can account for various configurations of vending machine shelves. At block1118, the processor, via the PWM signals to the product dispensers or gates, dispenses the selected product according to the modulated PWM signals and the timing parameters. The processor ends at block1120.

Controlling of the speed and timing of product dispensing as described herein allows for the use of one product gate, such as shown inFIGS.6A-6D. In other vending machines, when vending a product, the machine opens a front gate to allow exactly one product to move through the gate and dispense, while using a second rear gate that closes when the front gate opens to prevent other products from dispensing. The distance between the front and rear gates becomes a critical factor. Packages that do not fit this distance well cannot be vended reliably, limiting package flexibility.

The single gate design and adjustable timing disclosed herein allows for a greater range of package types. The timing parameters depend on numerous characteristics including the material, shape, weight, and contents of each product as well as the dimensions and other characteristics of the shelf holding the product. The transition speed between closed to open position of the gate, how long it should remain open, and how quickly the gate should transition from open to closed can all be controlled. In some embodiments, additional sensors can be installed within the vending machine that provide feedback on the timing parameters, which can be used to further optimize the timing parameters.

FIG.12illustrates an example vending machine variable timing system1200in accordance with various embodiments of this disclosure. The system1200can be one example of a portion or all of internal components of the vending machine100or200or other devices disclosed herein. The system1200includes at least one vending machine controller (“VMC”) (e.g., a processor/central processing unit (“CPU”))1202, at least one memory1204, and a user interface1206, and one or more product dispensers1210, such as one of or a combination of the product retrieval platform, product release gates, or other dispensing components disclosed in the various embodiments herein. In some embodiments, the system1200can also include at least one network interface1208, or network interface controllers (NICs). The network interface1208is configured to communicate with devices external to the vending machine system1200over a network1220. In some embodiments, the system1200does not include a network interface. The components1202,1204,1206,1208, and1210can be interconnected by a data transport system (e.g., a bus)1214. A power supply unit (PSU)1216provides power to components of the system1200via a power transport system1218(shown with data transport system1214, although the power and data transport systems may be separate).

It will be understood that the system1200may be differently configured and that each of the listed components may actually represent several different components. For example, the VMC1202may actually represent a multi-processor or a distributed processing system; the memory1204may include different levels of cache memory, and main memory; the user interface1206may include monitors, keyboards, touchscreens, keypads, and the like, that can be used for products selection; the at least one network interface1208may include one or more network cards providing one or more wired and/or wireless connections to the network1220. Therefore, a wide range of flexibility is anticipated in the configuration of the system1200, which may range from a single physical platform configured primarily for a single user or autonomous operation to a distributed multi-user platform such as a cloud computing system. The network1220may be a single network or may represent multiple networks, including networks of different types, whether wireless or wired. For example, the system1200may be coupled to external devices via a network that includes a cellular link coupled to a data packet network, or may be coupled via a data packet link such as a wide local area network (WLAN) coupled to a data packet network or a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). Accordingly, many different network types and configurations may be used to couple the system1200with external devices.

The memory1204, in various embodiments, can include instructions, utilized by the VMC1202, for performing some or all of the steps, processes, and methods described herein. For example, the memory1204can store one or more applications1212that provide instructions for performing storing and retrieving timing parameters and currently stocked product data, and for adjusting the timing of the product dispensers1210based on the retrieved timing parameters and currently stocked product data. For example, the memory1204can store timing parameter data1222, which, as illustrated inFIG.12, can be based on criteria such as vending machine storage locations, represented, for example, by a location identifier, and product types, represented, for example, by product codes. In the various embodiments herein, the product code can be a universal product code (“UPC”).

The timing parameter data1222can further include product dispenser timings specific to combinations of vending machine storage locations and product types. For example, as illustrated inFIG.12, a product having product code “0-12345-67890-5” stored at a location having identifier “101” can have a gate open speed of 500 ms, a gate open duration of 1000 ms, and a gate close speed of 500 ms. Since different locations in the vending machine may have different product shelf configurations, such as product shelf angle, the same product can have different timings for different locations. For example, the product having the same product code of “0-12345-67890-5” can be associated with different timings if stored at a different location, such as shown inFIG.12when stored at another location with location identifier “102.” When this same product type is stored at this other location, the timings are altered to have a gate open speed, a gate open duration, and a gate close speed of 1000 ms.

The timing parameter data1222, in some embodiments, can be pre-loaded before data concerning stocked products and associated locations is loaded. As such, data on a specific product and location can be stored ahead of time in the event that such a product and location combination are used in the vending machine. As such, it will be understood that the timing parameter data1222can include any number of timings for products, vending machine storage locations, or combinations thereof, and the examples shown inFIG.12are not limiting. The memory1204also can store stocked product data1224. The stocked product data1224includes products, such as identified by product codes, the locations in the vending machine where the products are currently stored, prices for the products, and other information. When a customer selects a product for vending via the user interface1206, the VMC1202retrieves the price and product code for the location from the stocked product data1224in the memory1204. The VMC1202can use the location and product code to also retrieve product dispenser timings from the timing parameter data1222in the memory1204for the product and location combination. The VMC1202can then, as disclosed in the various embodiments herein, adjust the timings of the product dispenser for the specific product, location, or combination thereof.

The various embodiments described herein can also be used in a micromarket environment. In a micromarket, customers can walk in, open a door and pick up a product. They can pay after taking products from a shelf. Some cashless stores employ multiple sensors to observe products on shelves and use data from those shelves to determine if a product is picked up. In some cases, products are behind a gate. If a product is behind a gate that permits variable times in closing, variable gate closing times as described in the various embodiments herein could reduce or eliminate using a sensor to monitor if a product is picked, especially if shelves are at an angle and when a customer is pulling out a product the gate opens to allow customer to pull the product and closes afterwards, ensuring that only one product is pulled at a time. In one aspect thereof, a vending machine comprises a chassis, at least one shelf including a plurality of product rows, a plurality of product gates each coupled to an associated one of the plurality of product rows, a movable stage, a retrieval platform coupled to the movable stage, wherein the retrieval platform is operable to move to accept a product from one of the plurality of product rows, and a vending machine controller coupled to at least one memory. The vending machine controller is configured to determine a product code and a storage location of a selected product for vending, retrieve, from the at least one memory, timing parameters associated with at least one of the product code or the storage location of the selected product, and control one or more timings of one of the plurality of product gates associated with the determined storage location of the selected product, based on the retrieved timing parameters, to release the selected product from the at least one shelf to the retrieval platform.

In some vending machine systems, when receiving a product from a column or a product tray into a non-tilting platform or dispenser having a horizontal base, the product may tilt or bridge. Bridging occurs when the top of a product tilts during the vending process and is unable to move from the tray into the dispenser. Tilting and bridging lead to failed product exchanges from the tray to the dispenser. Additionally, products on a product tray can slide into the product retrieval platform from the product tray when a product gate is opened. The product gate then closes to retain other products on the product tray. However, different product types can slide or move down the product tray at different rates depending on various aspects of the product such as the size or weight of the product. If the product gates were to all open and close at the same rates, this could lead to failed product exchanges in which a product is not released from the tray or is caught in the gate due to the gate closing too soon, for example. In some cases, it may be that products slide quickly, but there is found to be a delay in which the product begins sliding. In addition, different product trays, such as product trays of different angles, can cause products to slide at different rates.

To address the technical problems above, this disclosure provides a vending machine comprising a chassis, at least one shelf system including a plurality of product rows, a plurality of product gates each coupled to an associated one of the plurality of product rows, a movable stage, a retrieval platform coupled to the movable stage, wherein the retrieval platform is operable to move to accept a product from one of the plurality of product rows, and a vending machine controller coupled to at least one memory. The vending machine controller is configured to determine a product code and a storage location of a selected product for vending, retrieve, from the at least one memory, timing parameters associated with at least one of the product code or the storage location of the selected product, and control one or more timings of one of the plurality of product gates associated with the determined storage location of the selected product, based on the retrieved timing parameters, to release the selected product from the at least one shelf system to the retrieval platform.

To address the technical problems above, this disclosure also provides a method of dispensing a product from a vending machine comprising receiving data on a selected product for vending, determining a product code and a storage location of a selected product for vending, retrieving timing parameters associated with at least one of the product code or the storage location of the selected product, moving a retrieval platform coupled to a moveable stage to a position to accept the selected product from one of a plurality of product rows of at least one shelf system of the vending machine, and controlling one or more timings of one of a plurality of product gates associated with the determined storage location of the selected product, based on the retrieved timing parameters, to release the selected product from the at least one shelf system to the retrieval platform, wherein each of the plurality of product gates are coupled to an associated one of the plurality of product rows.

In one example embodiment, a vending machine comprises a chassis, at least one shelf system including a plurality of product rows, a plurality of product gates each coupled to an associated one of the plurality of product rows, a movable stage, a retrieval platform coupled to the movable stage, wherein the retrieval platform is operable to move to accept a product from one of the plurality of product rows, and a vending machine controller coupled to at least one memory. The vending machine controller is configured to determine a product code and a storage location of a selected product for vending, retrieve, from the at least one memory, timing parameters associated with at least one of the product code or the storage location of the selected product, and control one or more timings of one of the plurality of product gates associated with the determined storage location of the selected product, based on the retrieved timing parameters, to release the selected product from the at least one shelf system to the retrieval platform.

In one or more of the above examples, the timing parameters include parameters for a gate opening speed, a gate open duration, and a gate closing speed.

In one or more of the above examples, to control the one or more timings of the one of the plurality of product gates, the vending machine controller is further configured to modulate one or more pulse width modulation (PWM) signals, wherein each of the one or more PWM signals are associated with one of the gate opening speed, the gate open duration, and the gate closing speed.

In one or more of the above examples, the timing parameters associated with the storage location of the selected product are based on dimensions of the at least one shelf system and an angle of one of the plurality of product rows associated with the storage location of the selected product.

In one or more of the above examples, the timing parameters associated with the product code are based on at least one of shape or weight of a product type associated with the product code.

In one or more of the above examples, the vending machine further comprises a pusher plate mounted on a sidewall of at least one product row of the plurality of product rows, wherein the pusher plate is operable to push products in the at least one product row towards an end of the at least one product row.

In one or more of the above examples, the end of the at least one product row is associated with a retrieval location of the retrieval platform.

In one or more of the above examples, the retrieval platform includes a surface disposed at a base of the retrieval platform, and wherein the retrieval platform is operable to rotate in a direction of the at least one shelf system when the movable stage positions the retrieval platform in relation to one of the plurality of product rows.

In one or more of the above examples, each of the plurality of product gates includes a release mechanism operable to release a product from the associated one of the plurality of product rows when, due to the rotation of the retrieval platform, the surface of the retrieval platform depresses the release mechanism.

In one or more of the above examples, an angle of the retrieval platform, when the retrieval platform rotates in the direction of the at least one shelf system, matches an angle of at least one of the plurality of product rows.

In another example embodiment, a method of dispensing a product from a vending machine comprises receiving data on a selected product for vending, determining a product code and a storage location of a selected product for vending, retrieving timing parameters associated with at least one of the product code or the storage location of the selected product, moving a retrieval platform coupled to a moveable stage to a position to accept the selected product from one of a plurality of product rows of at least one shelf system of the vending machine, and controlling one or more timings of one of a plurality of product gates associated with the determined storage location of the selected product, based on the retrieved timing parameters, to release the selected product from the at least one shelf system to the retrieval platform, wherein each of the plurality of product gates are coupled to an associated one of the plurality of product rows.

In one or more of the above examples, the timing parameters include parameters for a gate opening speed, a gate open duration, and a gate closing speed.

In one or more of the above examples, controlling the one or more timings of the one of the plurality of product gates includes modulating one or more pulse width modulation (PWM) signals, wherein each of the one or more PWM signals are associated with one of the gate opening speed, the gate open duration, and the gate closing speed.

In one or more of the above examples, the timing parameters associated with the storage location of the selected product are based on dimensions of the at least one shelf system and an angle of one of the plurality of product rows associated with the storage location of the selected product.

In one or more of the above examples, the timing parameters associated with the product code are based on at least one of shape or weight of a product type associated with the product code.

In one or more of the above examples, the method further comprises pushing, with a pusher plate mounted on a sidewall of at least one product row of the plurality of product rows, products in the at least one product row towards an end of the at least one product row.

In one or more of the above examples, the end of the at least one product row is associated with a retrieval location of the retrieval platform.

In one or more of the above examples, the retrieval platform includes a surface disposed at a base of the retrieval platform, and further comprising rotating the retrieval platform in a direction of the at least one shelf system when the movable stage positions the retrieval platform in the position to accept the selected product.

In one or more of the above examples, the method further comprises depressing, by the surface of the retrieval platform when the retrieval platform rotates, a release mechanism of one of the plurality of product gates to release a product from the associated one of the plurality of product rows.

In one or more of the above examples, an angle of the retrieval platform, when the retrieval platform rotates in the direction of the at least one shelf system, matches an angle of at least one of the plurality of product rows.

While the present disclosure has described certain embodiments and generally associated methods, alterations and permutations of these embodiments and methods will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the above description of example embodiments does not define or constrain the present disclosure. Other changes, substitutions, and alterations are also possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, as defined by the following claims.