Abstract:
The present invention provides machines, methods and apparatus for automatically vending, damping, delivering and returning large heavy product containers such as 5-gallon water bottles. In some embodiments, damping methods and apparatus are provided to gently transfer large heavy product containers from one level to another inside a vending machine. In some embodiments, methods and apparatus including adjustable support rails are provided for handling different sized large heavy product containers inside a vending machine. In some embodiments, delivery methods and apparatus are provided for use with large heavy product containers. In some embodiments, methods and apparatus for returning large product containers are provided. Some or all of these features may be provided in a single vending machine, or in multiple machines, and multiple features or machines may be controlled by a single computer processor.

Description:
[0001]    This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/240,834 filed on Sep. 9, 2009 which is incorporated herein by this reference. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0003]    The present invention relates to vending machines and their methods of operation, and more particularly to devices and methods used for the storage, return, damping, and delivery of large heavy product containers such as 3-gallon and 5-gallon water bottles. 
         [0004]    2. Description of the Prior Art 
         [0005]    There has been an explosion in every avenue of bottled water use in the United States and the world, driven in large measure by marketing designed to convince the general public of the safety and purity, and capitalizing on public concern about tap water quality. It is believed that more than half of all Americans drink some form of bottled or container filled water; and about one third of the public consumes it regularly. Sales have tripled in the past 10 years, to about $14 billion a year. The industry standard is approximately ten percent (10%), with the expectation that new technologies, such as the present invention, will help sustain this growth into the future. People spend from 240 to over 10,000 times more per gallon for all types of bottled or container filled water than they typically do for tap water. 
         [0006]    The current global market for bottled or container filled water is estimated to be about $70 billion USD. Importantly, macroeconomic analysis shows a total available market of more than double this figure, or $159 billion. Leading areas of growth include Eastern Europe, China, Australia, and New Zealand. This mammoth category within the water industry is built upon many consumer trends, including: consumer&#39;s unmet demand for pure water in many economically developed nations, and the increase awareness towards living healthier by a growing number of people. 
         [0007]    Currently, consumer demand for bottled water is met in a variety of ways. One way is through services which provide dispensers (water coolers) and also provide delivery and pick-up services, delivering full water bottles to be placed in the dispensers and picking up used empty bottles. Pick up and delivery services are expensive since the consumer must pay for the dispenser, the pickup/delivery service, and for the bottled water itself. This has led to making bottled water available in containers for retail purchase at retail markets. However, such bottled water is only available when the market is open for business, and the water is generally not made available in a cool, refreshing drinkable condition. An alternative way for providing bottled water is through water filling machines which allow consumers to bring in large empty water bottles to be refilled. While these refilling stations may be convenient, the water filters inside may not always provide the cleanest, purest water, and there is the risk of contamination if the consumer has not sufficiently cleaned the bottle being filled. It is therefore desirable to provide an automatic vending machine for providing large heavy product containers for holding fluids such as water that may be accessed at any time during the day or night. 
         [0008]    Numerous automatic vending machines are known in the art for providing various kinds of products and product containers. However, relatively few existing vending machines are directed toward use with large, heavy product containers such as 3-gallon or 5-gallon water bottles. Maintaining and dispensing such large product containers presents unusual challenges because of the considerable weight associated with these containers when filled. A 5-gallon water container weighs approximately 41.73 pounds when filled. If as few as ten such bottles are to be stored for potential vending, the total weight is 417.26 pounds; if 25 such bottles are stored, the weight increases to over 1,000 pounds (1,043 pounds). If these heavy bottles are placed in a single queue, this entire pressure is borne by the hold-off mechanism. Moreover, as the lowermost bottle is dispensed, if the remaining bottles were to simply drop down, this could result in rupturing of the lower bottles and/or damage to the hold off mechanism because of the great weight. 
         [0009]    U.S. Pat. No. 5,967,364 discloses a vending machine that may be adapted for use with large containers. However, the disclosure system having a oscillating member that alternatively holds off and allows dispensing of a product container. There is no damping mechanism to reduce or slow the movement of the containers when the lowermost container is delivered, and the oscillating hold off member could easily be damaged under the weight of the containers above. 
         [0010]    U.S. Patent Publication No. 2002/0043509 discloses a storage rack for large water bottles having speed bumps to reduce the speed of the heavy moving jugs. U.S. Patent Publication No. 2006/0263188 discloses a support structure for holding a single large water bottle prior to insertion into water cooler. This invention utilizes one or more support pistons, but is not designed for use with multiple bottles. U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009/0140000 generally discloses an apparatus for supplying 3-gallon and 5-gallon water bottles, but provides no details regarding the manner by which such bottles are identified, selected, removed from storage, placed on conveyors or delivered. Various rack loaders and carts for large bottles are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,929,140, 5,074,013, 5,846,043, and 6,003,654 and in U.S. Patent Publ. No. 2008/0267744, but none of these patents or publications discloses any damping or individual bottle delivery mechanisms. 
         [0011]    It is therefore desirable to provide automatic machines, methods and apparatus for use in reliably storing, transferring, vending and returning large heavy containers without damaging or rupturing the containers or spilling their contents. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0012]    The present invention provides numerous solutions, systems, machines, devices and methods for reliably delivering and returning large heavy product containers (such as 5-gallon water bottles) automatically without rupturing or otherwise damaging the containers. 
         [0013]    In some aspects of the present invention, an internal damping mechanism is provided as part of a larger apparatus for supporting large heavy product containers. In this aspect, a frame is provided for supporting a plurality of pairs of rails for holding the large product containers in a queue with the rails defining a path inside the frame having at least one turn. One or more damping mechanisms are provided at each turn for slowing down the movement of the product containers on the path. Each damping mechanism includes a panel having an end that is pivotally attached to the frame, one or more springs for urging the panel upward to an extended position, and a compressible support member such as an air, gas or oil filled piston, shock absorber, or spring mechanism attached underneath the panel to slow the movement of the panel when contacted by the heavy product container. This slows the downward movement of the container as it makes the turn, in order to avoid rupturing or damaging the container. In different embodiments of the invention, additional damping mechanisms may be provided at each turn in the path. In the preferred embodiments, two damping mechanisms are provided at each turn, one below the other. 
         [0014]    In other aspects of the invention, a frame is provided that supports a plurality of pairs of adjustable rails for holding different sized large product containers. In these embodiments, the positions of one or both of the rails may be changed in order to accommodate different sized containers. For example and without limitation, the rails may be established at a certain separation space to support the shoulder and bottom of 5-gallon water bottles on their sides; one or both of these rails may be adjusted to define a shorter separation space in order to accommodate smaller 3-gallon water bottles. In these embodiments, additional, different or removable guides or panels are provided as part of the damping mechanism(s) for adjustable alignment with the adjusted position(s) of one or both of the rails. 
         [0015]    Other aspects of the invention include methods of damping or controlling the transfer of large product containers from one level to another in a frame. In these embodiments, a plurality of large, heavy product containers are provided on a frame defining a path with at least one turn, and at least one damping mechanism is provided at each turn. As a product container makes a turn, it contacts a pivotally mounted panel that is being urged upward using one or more springs or other similar biasing devices. The panel is also supported by a compressible member such as an air, gas or oil filled piston, spring or shock absorber. The amount of air, gas or oil in the piston, or the strength of the shock absorber or spring is determined by the anticipated weight of the product containers and the speed at which they are to be allowed to move. The weight of the product container against the panel causes it to slowly move the panel downward, as the compressible member underneath the panel slowly compresses and gives way. This dampens or retards the downward movement of the container in order to avoid sudden jarring motion that could rupture or damage the container or those behind it. In some embodiments, a stop in the form of a bracket, pin, flange or other blocking or obstructing member may be provided underneath the damping panel to prevent it from going below a pre-determined position. Eventually, the panel will reach a lowermost position and the container will gently roll off, either onto another damper or onto a lower set of rails. Once the container is clear of the panel, the springs will return it to its upward, extended position to be ready to receive the next product container. In alternative embodiments, flanges may be provided on the damper panel to guide the position of the product container while in contact with the panel. 
         [0016]    In alternative embodiments, a second damping mechanism is provided immediately below the first damping mechanism which operates in substantially the same way as the first damping mechanism. In particular, in these embodiments, a second pivotally mounted panel is provided that is being urged upward using one or more springs or other similar biasing devices. The second panel is also supported by a second compressible member such as an air, gas or oil filled piston, spring or shock absorber. The amount of air, gas or oil in the piston, or the strength of the shock absorber or spring is determined by the anticipated weight of the product containers and the speed at which they are to be allowed to move. The weight of the product container against the second panel causes it to slowly move the second panel downward, as the second compressible member underneath the panel slowly compresses and gives way. This further dampens or retards the downward movement of the container in order to avoid sudden jarring motion that could rupture or damage the container or those behind it. In some embodiments, a second stop in the form of a bracket, pin, flange or other blocking or obstructing member may be provided underneath the second damping panel to prevent it from going below a pre-determined position. Eventually, the second panel will reach a lowermost position and the container will gently roll off onto a lower set of rails. Once the container is clear of the second panel, the springs will return it to its upward, extended position to be ready to receive the next product container. In alternative embodiments, flanges may be provided on the second damper panel to guide the position of the product container while in contact with the second panel. 
         [0017]    In other aspects of the invention, a unique delivery mechanism is provided at the end of a path at the lower end of the frame where the large product containers have been fed by gravity. In these embodiments, the delivery mechanism includes a pivotally mounted delivery tray for receiving the first (lower most/frontmost) large product container. These embodiments include two restraining or hold off members attached to the frame adjacent to the delivery tray. The first such hold off member is closest to the delivery tray, and is made of sturdy construction so as to hold off the first product container, and all product containers queued up behind it. The second hold off member is adjacent to the first, and is also made of sturdy construction so as to be able to hold off the second product container, and all product containers queued up behind it. At least one sensor or switch is provided in the delivery tray for detecting the presence of a product container in the tray and for detecting whether said tray is clear of blockage after a product container has been removed from the tray. A linear actuator, linkage, piston or other movable mechanical member attached to said the tray to cause it to open and close. A processor is provided to control the hold off members, and the linear actuator, and to react to input from the sensor(s) in the tray. In some embodiments, a second movable panel is provided in the tray, and the sensor(s) are provided between this panel and the tray, such that pressure on the panel triggers the sensors indicating the presence of either a product container or some other object in the tray. 
         [0018]    In other aspects of the invention, methods for delivering a large product containers from an inclined queue are provided. In these embodiments, a processor receives an activation signal from a user interface that a product container is to be delivered. This is generally in response to a user making payment for the product. A sensor in the tray is used to detect whether a product container is in the tray, and also to detect whether any other object is in the tray. If a product container is already in the tray, the processor may simply cause the tray to be opened, allowing the user to remove the product container. The tray may then be closed, with the processor stopping the closing movement if an object is sensed in the tray. The processor may continue trying to close the tray at different intervals, sensing each time whether any object is in the tray which would prevent full closure. 
         [0019]    In these embodiments, when the tray is empty, the processor uses a pair of movable members to move a product container into the tray. A first movable member is used to hold off the second and all subsequent product containers in the queue; and a second movable member is used to hold off the first and all subsequent product containers in the queue. The first movable member is activated to hold off the second and subsequent product containers, and the second movable member is released allowing the first product container to transfer by gravity into the tray. The second movable member is then reactivated to hold off any subsequent containers in said queue. Then, the first movable member is activated to release the second product and subsequent product container from the queue. This allows the second product container to move forward where it is held off by the second movable member. At this point, the tray is full and the product queue has been advanced. The tray may then be opened in response to a user request to deliver the product container in the tray. 
         [0020]    In alternative embodiments, the tray may be empty until a user requests a product container. In these embodiments, the steps outlined above are carried out by the first and second movable members to advance the frontmost product container into the tray for delivery. After delivery, the queue may then be left in any of the following conditions: with the frontmost product container being held off by the first movable member, with the frontmost product container being held off by the second movable member, or with the frontmost product container in the tray. 
         [0021]    In other aspects of the invention, different embodiments are provided for receiving returned (empty) large product containers. In these embodiments, a cabinet is provided that includes a lower storage area or bin that may be accessed through a large side door for removal of accumulated returned containers. An upper return door is provided in association with guide located adjacent to this door. The guide is used for laterally aligning product containers to be inserted through the upper door. A set of sensors are provided in conjunction with the guide to sense whether the product container has been properly oriented in the guide, and to determine the size of the container (e.g. 3-gallon or 5-gallon). In some embodiments, a first sensor may be provided in the neck area of the guide, and/or second sensor may be provided in the body of the guide where the base of a 3-gallon container would make contact, and/or a third sensor may be provided in the body of the guide where the base of a 5-gallon container would make contact. A processor in communication with the door and the sensor(s) can detect the size of the container being returned, and provide an appropriate credit to the user. Upon recognition of a properly aligned container, an acceptance mechanism receives the container, and provides a credit to the user. If the container is misaligned or otherwise not properly sensed, an appropriate message to this effect (e.g. “please check returned container position”) is provided to the user at the interface. 
         [0022]    In related aspects of the invention, methods for returning large reusable product containers by a computer controlled system are provided. In these embodiments, a processor receives an activation signal from a user interface that a container is to be returned. The processor causes a closed return door to be released in response to this signal. A product container is then received through the door, and one or more sensors associated with the door sense the alignment of the container received. If the container is sensed as properly aligned, then it is deposited into a bin and a credit is provided to the user at the interface. If the container is sensed as not being properly aligned, then a signal is sent to the user interface to re-align the container and/or the container is rejected. 
         [0023]    In some aspects of the invention, a product storage/delivery (vending) unit may be provided alone or in conjunction with a product return unit. In other aspects of the invention, dual or multiple product vending units may be provided alone or in conjunction with dual or multiple product return units. Ordinarily, multiple vending units and multiple delivery units may be controlled by a single user interface. However, in other embodiments, additional user interfaces may be provided for control of single, dual or other groups of vending units and/or return units. In multiple unit embodiments, all vending units may be configured to deliver the same sized containers (e.g. all units vend 5-gallon containers), or one or more units may be configured differently from the other(s) to provide different sized containers (some units vend 3-gallon containers, and others vend and 5-gallon containers.). Similarly, the return units be configured to receive the same or different sized containers (e.g. all units receive 5-gallon containers, or may also receive 3-gallon), or one or more return units may be configured differently from the other(s) to receive different sized containers (some units receive 3-gallon containers, and others receive and 5-gallon containers), or the same return may receive either size container (either a 3-gallon or 5-gallon). Multiple vending and multiple return units, and different combinations of vending and return units, are contemplated within the scope of the invention, all of which may be operated by a single processor. 
         [0024]    In particular embodiments, the frame may preferably be configured to hold 25 product containers, and the delivery bin may hold up to 15 containers. Of course, other numbers of product containers are contemplated within the scope of the invention, depending on the space available and the size of the product containers in use. 
         [0025]    In preferred embodiments, the payment system should use either debit or credit cards, not cash. However, currency or coin operated payment interfaces may be provided. Ordinarily, interactive LED screens or multi character display modules are used to instruct the consumer, but any suitable display may be used. 
         [0026]    In a typical sequence, after card acceptance, an LED screen or other display prompts the user if a container is to be returned. If the answer is yes, the user follows the return procedure to obtain a credit. If not, the user proceeds to make a purchase. Assuming there is a return, the user will then be prompted to open the return door, insert the empty bottle to be returned, and then close the door. If the bottle is sensed as being properly oriented, it will be accepted and the user will be given a credit at the user interface. The bottle will then be dropped into a storage bin. If the bottle is not properly oriented, the user prompted to try again. 
         [0027]    Assuming the return is accepted, the user interface (e.g., LED screen or display) will then prompt the consumer regarding any credit provided for the return, and instruct the user to pay any balance due and then retrieve a full bottle from the tray at the end of the vending unit. When the processor gets a signal to deliver a full water bottle to consumer, the tray is automatically tilted out with a bottle for the consumer to lift out. A weight-sensitive panel in the tray detects removal of bottle, and thereafter automatically closes the tray. If any additional weight is added to door (e.g., someone manually holds tray open or places hand in tray), in some embodiments all machine mechanisms may automatically stop and reverse (reopening the tray) to allow any obstruction to be removed. After the obstruction is removed, the tray will continue to shut. 
         [0028]    Thereafter, the vending unit will cause a bottle indexing mechanism, which may include a vibrator, to prepare the next bottle for delivery. In these embodiments, the vibrator will operate for two to three seconds to be sure all bottles start to roll/advance forward on the specially designed rail system. The full bottles will advance one space closer to the tray, along a specially designed rail system, with the bottommost bottle landing in the tray, ready for the next purchase. 
         [0029]    When full bottles need to be added to the vending unit, an upper left end door is opened. In some embodiments, pulling open this door will activate the damper system to slow bottles as they roll down the specially designed rail system. However, in most embodiments, the damping system is automatically and continuously engaged. In some embodiments, if bottles stop on the rail system, there will be a manual override button to engage a vibrator system to shake lose any stuck bottles. When the vending unit is full, the delivery person shuts and locks the loading door, and the machine is then ready to operate again. 
         [0030]    It is to be noted that in some embodiments the walls of the vending unit are insulated, including the exterior panels of the delivery tray and loading doors. Climate control systems (heating or cooling) may be provided inside the vending units to maintain the temperature of the product containers. It is also to be noted that the first and/or second container hold off systems are designed to be constructed of sturdy materials in order to hold off potentially 1,000 pounds (or more) of filled product containers. 
         [0031]    It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide machines, devices and methods for use in automatically vending large heavy containers without damaging or rupturing the containers. 
         [0032]    It is also an object of embodiments of the present invention to provide methods and apparatus for automatically damping or slowing the movement of large heavy product containers inside a vending machine. 
         [0033]    It is also an object of embodiments of the present invention to provide methods and apparatus for automatically delivering large heavy product containers from inside a vending machine. 
         [0034]    It is also an object of embodiments of the present invention to provide methods and apparatus for automatically returning empty large product containers to a machine. 
         [0035]    Additional objects of the invention will be apparent from the detailed descriptions and the claims herein. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0036]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a machine of the present invention. 
           [0037]      FIG. 2  is a left side view of an embodiment of a machine of the present invention. 
           [0038]      FIG. 3  is a front view of an embodiment of a machine of the present invention. 
           [0039]      FIG. 4  is a perspective view of an embodiment of an internal frame structure of an embodiment of a machine of the present invention, loaded with 5-gallon containers. 
           [0040]      FIG. 5  is a side view of an embodiment of an empty internal frame structure of an embodiment of a machine of the present invention. 
           [0041]      FIG. 6  is a perspective view of an embodiment of an empty internal frame structure of an embodiment of a machine of the present invention. 
           [0042]      FIG. 7  is a detailed side view of an embodiment of a damping mechanism of the present invention in a fully-extended condition. 
           [0043]      FIG. 8  is a detailed side view of the damping mechanism of  FIG. 7  in a fully-compressed condition. 
           [0044]      FIG. 9  is a detailed perspective view of an embodiment of a rail system adjacent to damping mechanisms of the present invention. 
           [0045]      FIG. 10  is a detailed perspective view of an embodiment of a damping panel of the present invention showing exemplary flanges and positioning for an embodiment of an adaptor bracket. 
           [0046]      FIG. 11  is a detailed perspective view of the embodiment of  FIG. 11  showing attachment of an embodiment of an adaptor bracket to an embodiment of a damping panel. 
           [0047]      FIG. 12A  is a detailed side view of an embodiment of a damping mechanism of the present invention showing an embodiment of a first damper in an extended position upon receipt of a bottle. 
           [0048]      FIG. 12B  is a detailed side view of the embodiment of  FIG. 12A  showing the first damper in a different position after having been compressed by the weight of a bottle, and an embodiment of a second damper in an extended position upon receipt of the bottle. 
           [0049]      FIG. 12C  is a detailed side view of the embodiment of  FIG. 12A  showing the second damper in a different position after having been compressed by the weight of the bottle. 
           [0050]      FIG. 12D  is a detailed side view of the embodiment of  FIG. 12A  showing the second damper in an extended position following release of the bottle. 
           [0051]      FIG. 13  is a detailed perspective view of an embodiment of a product container delivery mechanism of the present invention. 
           [0052]      FIG. 14  is a detailed perspective view of an embodiment of a product delivery tray of the present invention. 
           [0053]      FIG. 14A  is a cross sectional view of an embodiment of a delivery tray of the present invention. 
           [0054]      FIG. 15  is a detailed side view of an embodiment of a delivery mechanism of the present invention. 
           [0055]      FIG. 16  is a detailed perspective view of the embodiment of  FIG. 15 . 
           [0056]      FIG. 17A  is a detailed side view of an embodiment of a delivery mechanism of the present invention showing an empty delivery tray. 
           [0057]      FIG. 17B  is a detailed side view of the embodiment of  FIG. 17A  showing a bottle transferred into the delivery tray. 
           [0058]      FIG. 17C  is a detailed side view of the embodiment of  FIG. 17A  showing a second bottle transferred into a first position behind delivery tray. 
           [0059]      FIG. 17D  is a detailed side view of the embodiment of  FIG. 17A  showing the delivery tray opening to deliver a bottle. 
           [0060]      FIG. 17E  is a detailed side view of the embodiment of  FIG. 17A  showing the delivery tray in a closed position following removal of a bottle from the delivery tray. 
           [0061]      FIG. 17F  is a detailed side view of the embodiment of  FIG. 17A  showing the second bottle transferred into the delivery tray. 
           [0062]      FIG. 17G  is a detailed side view of the embodiment of  FIG. 17A  showing a third bottle transferred into a first position behind delivery tray. 
           [0063]      FIG. 18  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a product return apparatus of the present invention with bin door open. 
           [0064]      FIG. 19  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a product return apparatus of the present invention with bin door closed. 
           [0065]      FIG. 20  is a front side view of an embodiment of a product return apparatus of the present invention. 
           [0066]      FIG. 21  is a sectional view along line B-B of  FIG. 20 . 
           [0067]      FIG. 22  is a detailed inside perspective view of an embodiment of a product return apparatus of the present invention. 
           [0068]      FIG. 23  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a frame assembly of the present invention for supporting product container guide rails. 
           [0069]      FIG. 24  is a perspective side view of an embodiment of a rail of the present invention. 
           [0070]      FIG. 25  is a perspective bottom view of an embodiment of a rail of the present invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0071]    Referring to the drawings wherein the same reference numeral may be used to designate different parts throughout the several views, and referring particularly to the illustrated exemplary embodiment of  FIGS. 1-3 , it is seen that the apparatus of the invention includes a vending unit  30  which in some embodiments may also include a product return unit  70 . Embodiments of the vending unit  30  include an upper door  31  for loading unit  30  with large containers, and a lower product delivery tray  81  having an outside panel  32  that may be flush or nearly flush with the outer surface of vending unit  30  when tray  81  is closed, as shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 . A main access door  33  is also provided that allows access to the interior of unit  30  for repair, maintenance, or removal of product containers. Doors  31  and  33  are preferably provided with a lock to prevent unauthorized access. A consumer interface panel  35  is also provided on unit  30 , which includes such features as product selection, payment options, optional product return options and the like. Vending unit  30  is preferably insulated, and provided with a cooling and/or heating system with temperature controls to keep product containers inside unit  30  at a desired temperature, compensating for changing outside ambient air temperatures. 
         [0072]    An optional product return unit  70  may be provided as a stand alone unit, or provided in conjunction with one or more vending units  30 . As shown in the illustrated exemplary embodiments of  FIGS. 1 ,  3 , and  18 - 22 , an exemplary return unit  70  includes an upper door  71  leading to a bin  74  for receiving empty returned containers. Door  71  is provided behind an opening  72  that is preferably shaped in the form of a bottle, preferably having the bottle neck area to one side, and the bottle bottom area to the other side, as shown. A second door  73  is provided on return unit  70  to allow access to the interior of bin  74  to remove returned containers that have accumulated inside. Door  73  is preferably provided with a lock to prevent unauthorized access. 
         [0073]      FIGS. 4 and 23  illustrate embodiments of a frame structure  40  that is provided inside vending unit  30  for holding large product containers to be vended. A plurality of pairs of rails  41 ,  42  are provided for mounting onto frame  40  as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 6 and 9 . Mounting of a rail  41 ,  42  to frame  40  may be accomplished using brackets  43  or the like, illustrated in  FIGS. 24 and 25 . Pairs of rails  41 ,  42  are used to support product containers on frame  40  as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 4 and 13 . It is preferred that rails  41 ,  42  be mounted on frame  40  at a slightly downward angle so that product containers deployed on the rails will be urged forward (downward) by gravity from the upper loading door  31  to the lower product delivery tray  81 . In some embodiments such as those illustrated in several of the exemplary drawings, rails  41 ,  42  may be arranged in one or more rows that may form a zig-zag or serpentine pattern, although other suitable arrangements of the rails may be used. For example, and without limitation, embodiments of the rail system may include only a bottom pair of rails, and a second pair of rails immediately above the bottom pair such that there is only a single turn (with a damping mechanism) to be made by product containers before exiting the vending unit  30 . Such embodiments provide the desired damping before the product containers are delivered, while allowing significant additional space for storing product containers to be vended. 
         [0074]    The positions of rails  41 ,  42  of the present invention may be adjusted to accommodate different sized containers. The illustrated exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 4  shows rails  41 ,  42  adjusted to a maximum position in order to accommodate 5-gallon water bottles. However, the positions of one or both of rails  41  and/or  42  may be adjusted to accommodate smaller bottles. For example, and without limitation, the positions of shoulder rails  42  may be adjusted to receive the shoulders of shorter 3-gallon water bottles. Alternatively, and without limitation, the positions of bottom rails  41  may be adjusted to receive the bottoms of shorter 3-gallon water bottles. 
         [0075]    Because large fluid-filled product containers (such as 3- and 5-gallon water bottles) tend to be heavy, it is important to control the movement of such filled containers inside vending unit  30 . This is accomplished using a unique damping system, embodiments of which are illustrated in  FIGS. 4-12 . In preferred embodiments, one or more damping mechanisms are provided at each turn in the path for product containers inside vending unit  30 . At each turn, product containers are transferred from an upper level to a lower level. It is to be appreciated that without damping, transitions of heavy product containers from one level to another could occur with great force sufficient to rupture the containers or otherwise cause damage to the components of the vending unit  30 . 
         [0076]    At least one upper damper, and preferably both an upper and a lower damper are provided at each transition of product containers from an upper level to a lower level inside vending unit  30 . Each upper damper includes a panel  51  that is pivotally mounted at one end to frame  40  so that it may move in an arcuate path around the pivot  52 . At least one spring  54  (not shown) is provided with each panel  51  to urge the panel to an extended (upward/outward) position. At least one compressible support member  53  is provided below each panel  51 , and may be in the form of an air, gas or oil-filled cylinder, shock absorber, hydraulic or pneumatic piston, spring, spring assembly, or the like, or combinations thereof. Each compressible support member  53  is preferably calibrated so as to slowly compress below panel  51  when under the known weight of a filled heavy container in order to delay, slow or otherwise retard the movement of such a heavy product container. It is to be appreciated that if support member(s)  53  is too strong, it will not be moved by the product container; and if support member(s)  53  is too weak, it will move too quickly under the weight of the product container. An optional stop  55  may be provided underneath panel  51  to establish a bottom position for movement of panel  51  to prevent downward movement (bottoming out) of panel  51  beyond the stop. Stop  55  may be in the form of a bracket, pin, flange or other blocking or obstructing member. One or more flanges  56  are provided along edges of panel  51  to guide product containers on panel  51  and align them with rails  41 ,  42  as they make the transition from an upper level to a lower level inside vending unit  30 . In some embodiments, a removable end piece  45  is provided between rails  41 ,  42  as shown in  FIG. 9 . 
         [0077]    In preferred embodiments, a second lower damper is provided beneath each upper damper at each turn on the product container path, in order to more gracefully transition product containers from an upper level to a lower level. See  FIGS. 8 and 9 . Each second damper includes a panel  61  that is pivotally attached to frame  40 , having at least one spring  64  (not shown) to urge it in an upward, extended position. The extended position of each second damper panel  61  is preferably slightly farther out than the extended position of the related upper damper panel  51  in order to more readily receive a heavy product container rolling off the upper panel (see  FIG. 7 ). At least one compressible support member  63  is provided below each panel  61 , and may be in the form of an air, gas or oil-filled cylinder, shock absorber, hydraulic or pneumatic piston, spring, spring assembly, or the like, or combinations thereof. Each compressible support member  63  is preferably calibrated so as to slowly compress below panel  61  when under the known weight of a filled heavy container in order to delay, slow or otherwise retard the movement of such a heavy product container. It is to be appreciated that if support member(s)  63  is too strong, it will not be moved by the product container; and if support member(s)  63  is too weak, it will move too quickly under the weight of the product container. An optional stop  65  may be provided underneath panel  61  to establish a bottom position for movement of panel  61  to prevent downward movement (bottoming out) of panel  61  beyond the stop. Stop  65  may be in the form of a bracket, pin, flange or other blocking or obstructing member. One or more flanges  66  are provided along edges of panel  61  to guide product containers on panel  61  and align them with rails  41 ,  42  as they make the transition from an upper level to a lower level inside vending unit  30 . 
         [0078]    In some embodiments, as discussed above, the positions of either rails  41  or  42  may be adjusted to accommodate different sized containers. In those situations where a smaller container is to be accommodated (e.g., a 3-gallon water bottle), a corresponding removable guide  58  is provided that may be temporarily installed on damper panels  51  (and  61 ) to guide the smaller bottle as it travels through the damping mechanism(s), as shown in  FIGS. 10-11 . Guide  58  includes a flange  59  corresponding to flange  56  (or  66 ) of plate  51  (or  61 ). It is to be appreciated that one or two guides  58  may be provided for alignment with one or both of rails  41 ,  42  depending on their adjustment.  FIGS. 10-11  also illustrate an additional optional flange  57  that may be provided on the front of damping panels  51 ,  61  that allow panels  51 ,  61  to more smoothly receive and transfer product containers during the damping process. 
         [0079]      FIGS. 12A-D  depict a set of views of an exemplary embodiment of a dual damping mechanism in operation. It is to be noted that, among other things, the embodiment shown in these illustrations does not include optional stops  55 ,  65  (shown in  FIGS. 7-8 ). Referring first to  FIG. 12A , a heavy product container travels down rails  41 ,  42  until it crosses end piece  45  and then makes contact with upper panel  51 . End piece  45 , rail guides  46  and flanges  56  prevent the orientation of the container from becoming skewed, and guide it onto panel  51 . Then, panel  51  slowly moves downward in an arcuate direction around pivot  52  under the weight of the product container, as allowed by compressible support member(s)  53 , until panel  51  reaches a stop  55  (not shown) and/or the product container rolls off, as shown in  FIG. 12B . Once panel  51  is free of the product container, spring(s)  54  move panel  51  upward to return to its original extended position awaiting the next product container, as shown in  FIG. 12C . Meanwhile, in the illustrated embodiment shown in  FIG. 12C , the product container is received by panel  61  of the second damping mechanism. Panel  61  slowly moves downward in an arcuate direction around pivot  62  under the weight of the product container, as allowed by compressible support member(s)  63 , until panel  61  reaches a stop  65  (not shown) and/or the product container rolls off onto rails  41 ,  42 . Once the container rolls off, spring(s)  64  move panel  61  upward to return to its original extended position awaiting the next product container, as shown in  FIG. 12D . 
         [0080]    An exemplary embodiment of a product delivery system is illustrated in  FIGS. 13-17 . Embodiments of the invention include a delivery tray  81  pivotally attached at  82  to frame  40 , as shown in  FIG. 13 . Tray  81  includes an outer panel  32  which fits flush or nearly flush with the outside wall of vending unit  30  when tray  81  is closed. Tray  81  is large and sturdy enough to receive a large heavy product container (e.g., a 5-gallon water bottle), and to move about pivot  82  while holding such a container. Movement of tray  81  is accomplished using a linear actuator  83  or other motion imparting device, such as a motor, linkage, cam, piston or the like. Tray  81  is preferably made of metal. A movable, spring-loaded interior panel  85  is provided in tray  81  as shown in  FIG. 14 . At least one sensor  89  is provided between panel  85  and panel  32  of tray  81 . Sensor  89  may be a switch or other pressure sensitive device. When a large heavy product container is deposited in tray  81  (the condition shown in  FIG. 14A ), movable panel  85  is pressed against sensor  89  which sends a signal to a processor that an object is in the tray. The tray may then be opened by the operation of actuator  83  controlled by a processor. When the container is removed from tray  81 , spring(s) (not shown) move panel  85  to its original position releasing pressure from sensor  89 , which is understood by the processor that the tray is empty. Tray  81  may then be closed. Upon closing, if an object is encountered in tray  81  (such as a hand, arm or purse of a user), movable panel  85  will be pressed against sensor  89  sending a signal to a processor that an object is in the tray. This will cause the processor to stop movement of and reopen the tray until pressure is released from sensor  89  indicating that the tray is empty and can be closed. A stop  88  may be provided on tray  81  to prevent panel  85  from being urged to far forward by the spring(s). 
         [0081]    An exemplary embodiment of a hold off and delivery mechanism is illustrated in  FIGS. 15-16 . The hold off mechanism includes two similar devices, one for holding off the frontmost bottle in the queue, and another for holding off the next (and remaining) bottles in the queue. The first hold off actuator includes a movable arm  91  pivotally attached at  92  to frame  40  above the lowermost queue of containers. Arm  91  is operated using linkages  94  attached to a gear motor or other suitable motion imparting device  93  that is capable of raising and lowering arm  91  about pivot  92 . The second hold off actuator includes a movable arm  95  pivotally attached at  96  to frame  40  above the lowermost queue of containers. Arm  95  is operated using similar linkages  94  attached to a similar gear motor or other suitable motion imparting device  93  that is capable of raising and lowering arm  95  about pivot  96 . A shield drop  97  is provided to prevent tempering with the internal mechanism while the tray is open. 
         [0082]      FIGS. 17A-E  depict a set of views of an exemplary embodiment of a delivery mechanism in operation. It is to be noted that, among other things, these illustrations do not depict the processor or sensors  89 , nor any of the programming or circuitry needed to control operation of the delivery mechanism. Referring first to  FIG. 17A , it is seen that tray  81  is empty, and that arm  91  has been lowered in order to hold off the frontmost container (bottle)  101 . Arm  95  is in a raised position, having allowed container  101  to reach arm  91  by the force of gravity. Following appropriate instructions from a user at the interface, the processor receives a signal to deliver a product container. In response, second arm  95  is moved down to hold off second container (bottle)  102  and those behind it, while first container  101  is delivered. The first arm  91  is then raised to allow container  101  to travel by gravity into tray  81 , as shown in  FIG. 17B , ready for delivery. First arm  91  is then lowered, and second arm  95  is then raised allowing second container  102  to travel by gravity to first arm  91  where it is held off, as shown in  FIG. 17C . The presence of container  101  is detected in tray  81  by the action of sensor  89  and plate  85 . Once the container is sensed in delivery tray  81 , the tray is rotated outward on pivot  82  making container  101  available for removal by a user as shown in  FIG. 17D . If no container is sensed, this is an indication that the queue is empty such that tray  81  will not be rotated out, and the user will receive an appropriate message at the user interface. After the container is removed from tray  81 , this is sensed by sensor  89 , and tray  81  is rotated back to a closed position, as shown in  FIG. 17E . This is the same “ready to vend” position as  FIG. 17A , with the next container  102  ready in the first position. 
         [0083]    In some embodiments, the such as those illustrated in  FIGS. 17F-G , the “ready to vend” position calls for the frontmost product container to be rotated into tray  81  for immediate delivery, instead of being held off by arm  91 . In these embodiments, after tray  81  has been closed, the frontmost product container (in this case  102 ), is moved into tray  81 . This is accomplished by lowering second arm  95  to hold off other product containers in the queue, and raising arm  91  to allow the frontmost container  102  to roll by gravity into tray  81 , as shown in  FIG. 17F . Then, the remaining queue of containers is advanced by the lowering of first arm  91 , and the raising of second arm  95  which brings all remaining bottles forward by gravity as shown in  FIG. 17G . 
         [0084]    It is to be appreciated that the exact sequence of events for holding off and delivering the frontmost product container may be varied from the sequences above. For example, and without limitation, after a container  101  is placed into tray  81 , the tray  81  may then be opened to allow the container to be removed, and may also be closed following removal of the container, before any further action is taken by arms  91  or  95  to move a second bottle into position behind arm  91 . It is to be appreciated that other variations in the sequences of these steps may be made within the scope of the invention. 
         [0085]    An embodiment of a return unit  70  is illustrated in  FIGS. 18-22 . A lock on closable door  71  is controlled by the processor. Door  71  may be provided on track wheels  69  behind an opening  72  that is preferably shaped in the form of a bottle, preferably having the bottle neck area to one side, and the bottle bottom area to the other side, as shown in  FIGS. 18 ,  19  and  20 . A user may activate cause the door to be unlocked for a return at the user interface. Once unlocked, door  71  may be slid open by the user and an empty container inserted as shown in  FIG. 18 . A bottom guide  75 , a set of lower brackets  76  and an upper bracket  77  are provided for cradling a properly inserted container, as shown in  FIG. 22 . Two lower sensors or switches  78 ,  79  are provided on guide  75 , and another sensor or switch  80  is provided adjacent to upper bracket  77  to sense the presence and size of the returned container. Ordinarily, the user inserts the return bottle into guide  75  and closes the door  71 , which causes the sensors to be activated. Sensor  80  is used to detect the proper placement of the neck of a bottle; sensor  79  is used to detect the bottom of a smaller 3-gallon bottle, and sensor  78  is used to detect the bottom of a larger 5-gallon bottle. Once a properly oriented bottle has been detected, a movable support bracket (not shown) inside unit  70  is moved out of the way using a suitable actuator, allowing the returned container to drop into bin  74 , and a credit is issued at the user interface. If the bottle is misaligned or otherwise not properly sensed, an appropriate message to this effect (e.g. “please check returned container position”) is provided to the user at the interface. 
         [0086]    It is to be appreciated that opening  72  may be provided in other forms or shapes corresponding to other container or bottle forms or shapes, and that different or additional guides and sensors/switches may be provided inside to detect the presence and orientation of such different product containers. 
         [0087]    In some embodiments, dual or tandem vending units  30  which may include one or two return units  70  may be provided under the control of a single processor and a single user interface. In such embodiments, both vending units  30  may be configured to deliver the same sized containers (e.g. both vend 5-gallon containers), or one may be configured differently from the other to provide different sized containers (3-gal. and 5-gal.). Similarly, the return units  70  may be configured to receive either sized containers (e.g. 3-gallon or 5-gallon containers), or one may be configured differently from the other to receive different sized containers (3-gal. and 5-gal.). Multiple vending and multiple return units, and different combinations of vending and return units, are contemplated within the scope of the invention, all of which may be operated by a single processor. 
         [0088]    Prior to loading a typical vending unit  30  of the present invention, rails  41  and  42  are moved to the proper orientation for the size of container to be loaded. If necessary, one or more guides  58  are attached to damper panels  51 ,  61  to correspond to the size of container to be used. End pieces  45  are attached to rails  41 ,  42  near the dampers. Upper door  31  is unlocked and opened, and full container bottles are individually inserted into the unit  30 , traveling by gravity down rails  41 ,  42  and through the damping mechanisms at each corner so as not to gain too much speed which could cause damage to the containers and/or the machine. First hold off arm  91  receives and stops the first such container  101 , and other containers queue up behind it, as shown in  FIGS. 13 and 17A . In some embodiments, hold off arms  91  and  95  may operate to move the frontmost product container into tray  81  for immediate delivery, as shown in  FIG. 17F-G . Once frame  41  is filled with product containers, door  31  is closed and locked, and the user interface is activated. 
         [0089]    To use a typical vending unit  30  of the present invention, a user operates the interface  35  to select (if multiple units  30  are available with different products) and pay for a product container. Once payment is confirmed, the processor causes arms  91  and  95  to operate in order to allow the frontmost product container  101  to be delivered into tray  81 . The remaining containers in the queue may be moved forward at that time, or after tray  81  has been opened, or after tray  81  has been closed. Sensor  89  in tray  81  confirms that a full product container is in the tray, and it is opened so that the user may remove the product container. Once removed, sensor  89  recognizes that there is no longer pressure in the tray, which results in tray  81  being closed. If an object (such as the user&#39;s hand) is placed in the tray, before being completely closed, sensor  89  will be activated stopping tray  81  from closing, and reversing the tray to an open position to allow the blockage to be removed. The processor will wait until there is no blockage sensed before trying to close the tray. If no product is sensed as having been delivered to the tray  81  (or in the embodiments of  FIGS. 17F-G , if it is already been sensed that there are no more containers in the queue), the user is notified at the interface. 
         [0090]    To return a product, the user activates the user interface which results in the unlocking of door  71  of return unit  70 . The user then opens the door, inserts the product container into the guide, and closes the door. The container size and orientation are sensed by sensors  77 - 79 . If a properly oriented product container is sensed, it is received into bin  74 , and the user is given a credit at the user interface that may be used toward the next purchase from vending unit  30 . If the container is misaligned or otherwise not properly sensed, an appropriate message to this effect (e.g. “please check returned container position”) is provided to the user at the interface. An operator may unlock and open door  73  to remove collected containers from bin  74  for reuse or disposal. 
         [0091]    It is to be understood that variations and modifications of the present invention may be made without departing from the scope hereof, and that one or more of the different embodiments disclosed herein may be used together with one or more of the other embodiments to provide additional features for the vending machine. It is also to be understood that the present invention is not to be limited by the specific embodiments or combinations of embodiments, components or parts disclosed herein, nor by any of the exemplary embodiments or combinations set forth in the attached illustrations.