Abstract:
Embodiments of the invention provide vending dispenser assemblies for beverage dispensers. In particular, embodiments of the invention can provide a beverage dispenser with a manually operated vending dispenser assembly that consumes little or no additional electrical power to dispense a beverage container using the assembly. Embodiments of a vending dispenser assembly can be used with a heated or chilled compartment associated with a beverage dispenser. Furthermore, embodiments of a vending dispenser assembly can operate in conjunction with a relatively small dispenser opening to limit heat transfer loss via the dispenser opening. One embodiment can provide a dispenser for dispensing a number of products. The dispenser can include at least one storage column adapted to dispense a number of products, and a product selection device operable to permit one of the number of products to advance from the storage column, wherein the advanced product can be dispensed from the dispenser.

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The invention relates generally to a beverage dispenser, and more particularly relates to vending dispenser assemblies for beverage dispensers. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Conventional beverage dispensers can dispense pre-packaged beverages in cans, bottles, or other containers. Various concerns exist for such conventional types of dispensers including packout, restocking, power consumption, and consumer access to a dispensed product. Other conventional beverage dispensers can dispense beverages into cups or other containers for distribution to customers. Depending on the location and customer, different types of beverage dispensers can be employed. For example, beverages in cans and bottles can be dispensed from a dispenser located behind a store or restaurant counter or can be obtained from an under the counter refrigerator or storage unit in a store or restaurant. However, in many instances, store or restaurant personnel must walk over to a dispenser where pre-packaged cans or bottles are located. This dispenser-to-consumer process can take time since store or restaurant personnel must often walk to where the dispenser is located. Alternatively, store or restaurant personnel must bend down to access the under the counter refrigerator or storage unit. This dispenser-to-consumer process also takes time since he or she may bend down each time to obtain a beverage, which repeated over time, may cause back pain or stress for personnel. 
     In other instances, personnel can dispense beverages directly into a cup or other container. However, in many such instances, filling cups or containers takes time, and beverage spillage can be a recurring or occasional problem. In addition, personnel may have to walk over to these types of beverage dispensers in order to dispense each beverage for each customer. 
     Therefore, a need exists for a beverage dispenser with a vending dispenser assembly that minimizes time in delivering a beverage to a customer. Furthermore, a need exists for a beverage dispenser with a vending dispenser assembly that is convenient to use, and minimizes product wastage. Moreover, a need exists for a beverage dispenser with a vending dispenser assembly with increased packout, and decreased power consumption. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Embodiments of the invention can address some or all of the needs described above. Generally, embodiments of the invention can provide a beverage dispenser with a vending dispenser assembly. In particular, embodiments of the invention can provide a beverage dispenser with a manually operated vending dispenser assembly that is mechanically reliable and relatively easy to use. Embodiments of a vending dispenser assembly can be used with a heated or chilled compartment associated with a beverage dispenser. Furthermore, embodiments of a vending dispenser assembly can operate in conjunction with a relatively small dispenser opening to limit heat transfer loss via the dispenser opening. In addition, embodiments of a vending dispenser assembly can be manually operated by a person with little or no additional consumption of electrical power to dispense a beverage container using the assembly. 
     In one embodiment, a beverage dispenser with a vending dispenser assembly can be used with any number of product lanes. For example, a beverage dispenser can be used with two product lanes. Adjacent to the product lanes can be a turret assembly. The turret assembly can include a turret wheel, a product gate, and any number of star-shaped wheels. Adjacent to the turret assembly can be a shuttle assembly. The shuttle assembly can include a shuttle positioned on any number of rails. When a user pulls on the shuttle door, the shuttle can ride along the rails to provide access to the product. When the shuttle door is closed, the product gate can swing forward by the force of gravity such that gate lever pivots and the drive pins allow the turret and the star wheels to rotate and dispense another beverage onto the shuttle. The shuttle can be operated via a drive belt assembly. The drive belt can pull the shuttle forward such that the shuttle is within the door open regardless of how far door is opened. 
     In another embodiment, a dispenser for dispensing a number of products can include at least one storage column adapted to dispense a number of products. The dispenser can also include a product selection device operable to permit one of the number of products to advance from the storage column, wherein the advanced product can be dispensed from the dispenser. 
     In one aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device can include a rotatable door. 
     In another aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device can include at least one turret-type wheel. 
     In another aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device can include a device with a plurality of slots, wherein each of the plurality of slots is sized to receive one of the number of products. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device can be adapted to permit manual operation of the device. 
     In another aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device can include an access door, at least one turret-type wheel positioned adjacent to at least one storage column, and a product shuttle cooperating with the door and the at least one turret-type wheel, wherein manipulating the access door causes rotation of the at least one turret-type wheel which allows one of the number of products to advance from the at least one storage column to the product shuttle and towards the access door. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one turret-type wheel can include a plurality of slots, wherein each of the plurality of slots is sized to receive one of the number of products. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one turret-type wheel comprises a plurality of slots and a plurality of out-of-phase slots, wherein the plurality of slots is sized to receive one of a number of products from a first storage column and the plurality of out-of-phase slots is sized to receive one of a number of products from a different storage column. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, rotation of the at least one-turret type wheel is controlled by at least one control device. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one control device can include at least one of the following: a ratchet gear, a toggle, a pawl, or a pawl trigger. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the product shuttle can include a pulley drive set. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the product shuttle can be adapted to lift the advanced product when the access door is opened. 
     In another aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device can include at least one turret-type wheel positioned adjacent to the at least one storage column, and a device cooperating with the at least one turret-type wheel, the device operable to receive a force from a user, wherein the force causes the at least one turret-type wheel to rotate and allows one of the number of products to advance from the at least one storage column. 
     In another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one turret-type wheel can include a plurality of slots, wherein each of the plurality of slots is sized to receive one of the number of products. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device can include at least one moveable array operable to receive the advanced product, and advance the product towards an access opening, and at least one stationary array adjacent to the at least one moveable array, and operable to retain the position of the advanced product when movement of the advanced product is interrupted prior to dispensing of the product from the access opening. 
     In another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one moveable array includes at least one of the following: a series of pivotable arms, or a series of lift bars. 
     In another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one stationary array can include a series of pivotable arms. 
     In another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one moveable array can be manually operated to dispense the advanced product from the access opening. 
     Another embodiment of the invention can provide a method of dispensing a product from a dispenser. The method can include selecting a product stored in at least one storage column adapted to dispense a number of products. In addition, the method can include manipulating a product selection device operable to permit one of the number of products to advance from the storage column, wherein the advanced product can be dispensed from the dispenser. Furthermore, the method can include receiving the selected product from the dispenser. 
     In one aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device can include a rotatable door. 
     In another aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device can include at least one turret-type wheel. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device can include a device with a plurality of slots, wherein each of the plurality of slots is sized to receive one of the number of products. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device can be adapted to permit manual operation of the device. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device can include an access door, at least one turret-type wheel positioned adjacent to at least one storage column, and a product shuttle cooperating with the door and the at least one turret-type wheel, wherein manipulating the access door causes rotation of the at least one turret-type wheel which allows one of the number of products to advance from the at least one storage column to the product shuttle and towards the access door. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one turret-type wheel can include a plurality of slots, wherein each of the plurality of slots is sized to receive one of the number of products. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one turret-type wheel can include a plurality of slots and a plurality of out-of-phase slots, wherein the plurality of slots is sized to receive one of a number of products from a first storage column and the plurality of out-of-phase slots is sized to receive one of a number of products from a different storage column. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, rotation of the at least one-turret type wheel is controlled by at least one control device. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one control device can include at least one of the following: a ratchet gear, a toggle, a pawl, or a pawl trigger. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the product shuttle can include a pulley drive set. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the product shuttle is adapted to lift the advanced product when the access door is opened. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device can include at least one turret-type wheel positioned adjacent to the at least one storage column, and a device cooperating with the at least one turret-type wheel, the device operable to receive a force from a user, wherein the force causes the at least one turret-type wheel to rotate and allows one of the number of products to advance from the at least one storage column. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one turret-type wheel can include a plurality of slots, wherein each of the plurality of slots is sized to receive one of the number of products. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device can include at least one moveable array operable to receive the advanced product, and advance the product towards an access opening, and at least one stationary array adjacent to the at least one moveable array, and operable to retain the position of the advanced product when movement of the advanced product is interrupted prior to dispensing of the product from the access opening. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one moveable array can include at least one of the following: a series of pivotable arms, or a series of lift bars. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one stationary array can include a series of pivotable arms. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one moveable array can be manually operated to dispense the advanced product from the access opening. 
     Another embodiment of the invention can provide a method of providing a product from a dispenser. The method can include storing at least one product in at least one storage column adapted to dispense a number of products. Furthermore, the method can include providing a product selection device operable to permit one of the number of products to advance from the storage column, wherein the advanced product can be dispensed from the dispenser. Moreover, the method can include after receipt of an input from a consumer, dispensing the advanced product from the dispenser. 
     In one aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device can include a rotatable door. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device can include at least one turret-type wheel. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device can include a device with a plurality of slots, wherein each of the plurality of slots is sized to receive one of the number of products. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device is adapted to permit manual operation of the device. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device can include an access door, at least one turret-type wheel positioned adjacent to at least one storage column, and a product shuttle cooperating with the door and the at least one turret-type wheel, wherein manipulating the access door causes rotation of the at least one turret-type wheel which allows one of the number of products to advance from the at least one storage column to the product shuttle and towards the access door. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one turret-type wheel can include a plurality of slots, wherein each of the plurality of slots is sized to receive one of the number of products. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one turret-type wheel can include a plurality of slots and a plurality of out-of-phase slots, wherein the plurality of slots is sized to receive one of a number of products from a first storage column and the plurality of out-of-phase slots is sized to receive one of a number of products from a different storage column. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, rotation of the at least one-turret type wheel is controlled by at least one control device. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one control device can include at least one of the followings a ratchet gear, a toggle, a pawl, or a pawl trigger. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the product shuttle can include a pulley drive set. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the product shuttle is adapted to lift the advanced product when the access door is opened. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device can include at least one turret-type wheel positioned adjacent to the at least one storage column, and a device cooperating with the at least one turret-type wheel, the device operable to receive a force from a user, wherein the force causes the at least one turret-type wheel to rotate and allows one of the number of products to advance from the at least one storage column. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one turret-type wheel can include a plurality of slots, wherein each of the plurality of slots is sized to receive one of the number of products. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the product selection device can include at least one moveable array operable to receive the advanced product, and advance the product towards an access opening, and at least one stationary array adjacent to the at least one moveable array, and operable to retain the position of the advanced product when movement of the advanced product is interrupted prior to dispensing of the product from the access opening. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one moveable array can include at least one of the following: a series of pivotable arms, or a series of lift bars. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one stationary array can include a series of pivotable arms. 
     In yet another aspect of an embodiment, the at least one moveable array can be manually operated to dispense the advanced product from the access opening. 
     Yet another embodiment of the invention can provide a dispenser for dispensing a number of products. The dispenser can include at least one storage column adapted to dispense a number of products. Furthermore, the dispenser can include a product selection device operable to permit one of the number of products to advance from the storage column, wherein the advanced product can be dispensed from the dispenser, the product selection device comprising at least one turret-type wheel positioned adjacent to at least one storage column. Moreover, the dispenser can include an access opening, and a product shuttle cooperating with the door and the at least one turret-type wheel, wherein manipulating the access door causes rotation of the at least one turret-type wheel which allows one of the number of products to advance from the at least one storage column to the product shuttle and towards the access opening. 
     Another embodiment of the invention provides a dispenser for dispensing a number of products. The dispenser includes at least one storage column adapted to dispense a number of products. In addition, the dispenser provides a product selection device operable to permit one of the number of products to advance from the storage column, wherein the advanced product can be dispensed from the dispenser. The product selection device can include at least one turret-type wheel positioned adjacent to the at least one storage column. In addition, the product selection device can include a device cooperating with the at least one turret-type wheel, the device operable to receive a force from a user, wherein the force causes the at least one turret-type wheel to rotate and allows one of the number of products to advance from the at least one storage column towards the access opening, Moreover, the product selection device can include an access opening for dispensing the advanced product. 
     Yet another embodiment of the invention can provide a dispenser for dispensing a number of products. The dispenser can include at least one storage column adapted to dispense a number of products. In addition, the dispenser can include a product selection device operable to permit one of the number of products to advance from the storage column, wherein the advanced product can be dispensed from the dispenser. The product selection device can include at least one moveable array operable to receive the advanced product, and advance the product towards an access opening. In addition, the product selection device can include at least one stationary array adjacent to the at least one moveable array, and operable to retain the position of the advanced product when movement of the advanced product is interrupted prior to dispensing of the product from the access opening. Moreover, the product selection device can include an access opening for dispensing the advanced product. 
     Other embodiments and aspects of embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Having thus described the invention in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an example stand alone-type beverage dispenser with a vending dispenser assembly according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a front view of the stand alone-type beverage dispenser with a vending dispenser assembly shown in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a side view of the stand alone-type beverage dispenser with a vending dispenser assembly shown in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a front sectional view of the stand alone-type beverage dispenser with a vending dispenser assembly shown in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5  is a side sectional view of the stand alone-type beverage dispenser with a vending dispenser assembly shown in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 6  is a detail schematic view of an example vending dispenser assembly for the stand alone beverage dispenser shown in  FIGS. 1-5 . 
         FIGS. 7A and 7B  illustrate an example rotatable device or turret for a vending dispenser assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIGS. 8-10  illustrate another example of a vending dispenser assembly for a beverage dispenser according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 11  is an example under the counter-type beverage dispenser with a vending dispenser assembly according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 12  is a side schematic of an example vending dispenser assembly for a beverage dispenser according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 13  is a detail side schematic of the example vending dispenser assembly shown in  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 14  is another detail side schematic of the example vending dispenser assembly shown in  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of another example vending dispenser assembly for a beverage dispenser according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 16  is a side schematic view of the example vending dispenser assembly shown in  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 17  is a perspective view of another example vending dispenser assembly according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 18  is perspective view of another example vending dispenser assembly according to an embodiment of the invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS 
     Referring now to the drawings, in which like numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views,  FIG. 1  shows a perspective view of an example beverage dispenser  100  with a vending dispenser assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention described herein. The beverage dispenser  100  shown is a stand alone-type dispenser, which can be mounted in a variety of locations depending on space requirements. Another type of beverage dispenser, an under the counter-type dispenser, is shown and described as  1100  in  FIG. 11 . Embodiments of a vending dispenser assembly are not limited to, and can be implemented with, either type of beverage dispenser, and with other types of beverage dispensers. 
       FIG. 2  is a front view, and  FIG. 3  is a side view of the stand alone-type beverage dispenser with a vending dispenser assembly shown in  FIG. 1 . In general, a beverage dispenser, such as  100  in  FIG. 1 , can include a storage compartment  102 , a product identification panel  104 , a consumer access opening  106 , a personnel access opening  108 , and a vending dispenser assembly  110  (shown in the interior of the dispenser  100  in this example). Typically, the beverage dispenser  100  can dispense pre-packaged beverages in cans or other containers. Multiple cans or containers can be loaded into the storage compartment  102  within the dispenser  100  via the personnel access opening  108 .  FIG. 4  described below illustrates sectional view A-A, wherein further details associated with the storage compartment  102  and vending dispenser assembly  110  are shown. When a consumer is interested in obtaining a beverage from the dispenser  100 , the consumer can select a particular beverage from the product identification panel  104 . Upon selection of the beverage or payment for the beverage, the vending dispenser assembly  110  can be manipulated to dispense the selected beverage from the storage compartment  102 .  FIG. 5  described below illustrates sectional view B-B, wherein further details associated with the vending dispenser assembly  110  are shown. In this example, the vending dispenser assembly  110  can be manually manipulated by a user to dispense the selected beverage from the storage compartment  102 . The vending dispenser assembly  110  can receive the selected beverage from the storage compartment  102 , and can transfer the selected beverage to the consumer access opening  106 , where the consumer can obtain the selected beverage. 
     Other embodiments of a stand alone-type beverage dispenser can include some or all of the above components, and some embodiments can include other components in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
       FIG. 4  shows front sectional view A-A of the beverage dispenser  100  and the storage compartment  102 . As shown in  FIG. 4 , the beverage dispenser  100  can have one or more product lanes or columns  400  within the storage compartment  102 . In this example, there are three columns  402 ,  404 ,  406  separated by vertically-oriented partitions  408 ,  410  between columns  402 ,  404 ,  406 . Within each column  402 ,  404 ,  406 , multiple beverage containers  412 , such as bottles or cans, can be arranged for gravity-fed type dispensing from the respective column. Different types of beverages, such as different flavors or drinks, can be organized between columns. That is, bottles of a regular soft drink can be in one column, bottles of a diet soft drink can in the adjacent column, and bottles of another flavor drink can in the other third column. In any instance, the columns  402 ,  404 ,  406  are adapted to receive multiple containers, and by way of gravity, the containers  412  can be channeled towards the vending dispenser assembly  110  adjacent to a lower portion of the respective column  402 ,  404 ,  406 . 
       FIG. 5  shows side sectional view B-B of the beverage dispenser  100  and the vending dispenser assembly  110 . As shown in this view, containers  500  from a column  502  are gravity fed and channeled towards the vending dispenser assembly  110 . The vending dispenser assembly  110  can receive containers from the column  502 , and direct a particular beverage container  504  towards the consumer access opening  106  in accordance with a consumer&#39;s beverage selection. 
     As shown in  FIG. 6 , which is a detail schematic view of the example vending dispenser assembly shown in  FIGS. 1-5 , the assembly  110  can include a rotatable device, such as a turret  600  with multiple slots  602 ,  604 ,  606 ,  608 , and a control device, such as an actuating arm  610 , adapted to control the rotation of the rotatable device or turret. In one embodiment, the turret  600  can generally be cylindrically-shaped with multiple spaced apart slots  602 ,  604 ,  606 ,  608  molded or machined into the surface of the turret  600 . Each slot  602 ,  604 ,  606 ,  608  can be sized to receive a single beverage container  612 . In another embodiment, the rotatable device or turret  600  may include multiple turrets or star-shaped wheels mounted on an axle. The multiple turrets or star-shaped wheels may cooperate to receive one beverage container, such as  612 , at a time. 
       FIGS. 7A and 7B  illustrate an example rotatable device or turret for a vending dispenser assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 7A  shows a perspective view of a cylindrically-shaped turret  700  with multiple slots  702  adapted to receive a beverage container from one column, such as  402 , and multiple out-of-phase slots  704  adapted to receive a beverage container from a second or different column, such as  404 . The out-of phase slots  704 , also shown in the side or cross-sectional view of turret  700  in  FIG. 7B , can receive containers from a different column at a different time, when the turret  700  is rotated, and an out-of-phase slot  704  is aligned with it corresponding column. In other embodiments, additional out-of-phase slots adapted to receive a beverage container from other columns at other times can exist, and can be integrated within a single turret, or similarly sized turrets positioned axially adjacent to the turret  700  shown. 
     Turning back to  FIG. 6 , the control device is shown as an actuating arm  610 . An external portion  614  of the actuating arm  610  can be part of or in communication with the product identification panel, shown as  104  in  FIGS. 1 and 2 . An internal portion  616  of the actuating arm  610  can be in contact with a portion of the rotatable device, such as a turret  600 , to control, limit, or otherwise permit selective rotation or movement of the rotatable device or turret  600 . For example, in an initial position, the internal portion  616  of the actuating arm  610  may prevent further rotation of the turret  600  until the arm  610  is released or actuated. When the external portion  614  of the actuating arm  610  receives sufficient force, such as a manual force applied by a user towards the beverage dispenser  100  or actuating arm  610 , the actuating arm  610  can pivot slightly to another position to permit the internal portion  616  of the arm  610  to release from or otherwise decrease the amount of force applied by the arm  610  to a surface, such as the slot  608 , of the rotatable device or turret  600 . Thus, when the arm  610  is actuated, the rotatable device or turret  600  can be rotated to permit a container, such as  612 , to move from an adjacent column, such as  402 , and into a corresponding slot  602  of the turret  600 . The rotatable device or turret  600  can be further rotated to permit the rotatable device or turret  600  to direct the container  612  from the slot  608  towards a consumer access opening  106 . In this embodiment, the arm  610  may be adapted to have a return action or spring-type force to permit the arm  610  to return to the initial position when little or no force is applied to the external portion  614  of the arm  610 . 
     Other embodiments of a control device or actuating arm  610  can have other configurations or components, and may cooperate with the product identification panel and/or the rotatable device or turret  600  in other or similar manners in accordance with the invention. 
       FIGS. 8-10  illustrate another example of a vending dispenser assembly for a beverage dispenser according to an embodiment of the invention. In the embodiment shown, a vending dispenser assembly  800  can include a rotatable device, such as a turret  802  with multiple wheels  804 ,  806 ,  808 ,  810 , and a control device, such as a bevel gear set  812 , adapted to control the rotation of the rotatable device or turret  802 . In one embodiment, the turret  802  can include an axle  814  with multiple spaced apart wheels  804 ,  806 ,  808 ,  810  mounted to the axle  814 . Each wheel  804 ,  806 ,  808 ,  810  can generally be cross or star-shaped, and can further be sized to receive a single beverage container  816  between two cross or star arms, such as  818 ,  820 . In another embodiment, the rotatable device or turret  802  may include a generally cylindrical shaped device with multiple slots molded or machined into the device or turret  802 . 
     The embodiment of a vending dispenser assembly shown in  FIGS. 8-10  also includes a shuttle assembly  822  adapted to direct a container received from the rotatable device or turret  802  towards a consumer access opening, such as  824 . As shown, the shuttle assembly  822  can include a shuttle  826  positioned on at least one rail or track  828 . When a user manipulates or pulls on an associated shuttle handle (not shown), the shuttle  826  can ride along the rail or track  828  to direct a container  816  on the shuttle  826  towards a consumer access opening, such as  824 , to provide consumer access to the container  816 . When an empty shuttle  826  is returned, by either a return force or other force applied by a user, a product gate  830  can swing forward by the force of gravity such that a gate lever  832  pivots and associated drive pins  834  can cooperate to allow the turret  802  and the star wheels  804 ,  806 ,  808 ,  810  to rotate and dispense another container  816  onto the shuttle  826  for directing towards the consumer access opening  824 . 
     The shuttle  826  shown in  FIGS. 8-10  can be operated via a drive belt assembly or similar type of drive. A drive assembly  836 , including a belt  838 , drive gear  840 , pulley  838 , and door pulley  840 , can pull the shuttle  826  towards or away from the consumer access opening  824  as needed. Other drive assembly components, such as a drive stop  840 , drive spring  842 , and shuttle spring  844  can cooperate to pull the shuttle  826  towards or away from the consumer access opening  824 . Other embodiments of a shuttle assembly can have other types of drive configurations or components, and may cooperate with the rotatable device or turret  802  or other parts of a vending dispenser assembly in other or similar manners in accordance with the invention. 
     The product gate  830  shown in  FIGS. 8 and 10  can cooperate with various components including a gate lever  832 , drive pins  834 , a pivot positioner arm  846 , and positioner gear  848 . These components can cooperate to permit the product gate  830  to limit the transfer of containers to the shuttle  826 . Other embodiments of a product gate can have other types of drive configurations or components, and may cooperate with the rotatable device or turret  802 , and shuttle  826 , or other parts of a vending dispenser assembly in other or similar manners in accordance with the invention. 
       FIG. 11  illustrates another example of a vending dispenser assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. This example assembly  1100  can be implemented with a stand alone-type beverage dispenser similar to the dispenser shown as  100  in  FIG. 1 . The assembly  1100  shown includes at least one product storage column  1102 , and a product selection device  1104 . Similar to the example in  FIG. 4 , this assembly  1100  can include one or more columns  1102  separated by vertically-oriented partitions between columns. Within each column  1102 , multiple beverage containers  1106 , such as bottles or cans, can be arranged for gravity-fed type dispensing from the respective column. By way of gravity, the containers  1106  can be channeled towards the product selection device  1104  adjacent to a lower portion of the respective column  1102 . 
     The product selection shown  1104  can include a series of rotatable devices or turrets  1108  mounted to an axle  1110 . A push button-type device  1112  can be manipulated by a user to rotate the axle  1110 , thereby rotating the series of rotatable devices or turrets  1108  to permit at least one container  1106  to be dispensed from the column  1102  and towards an access opening or door  1114 . Various configurations for a push button-type device  1112  can be used with embodiments of the invention, such as a ratchet-type gear device or other similar device. In the example shown, the push button-type device  1112  can include an arm  1116  that selectively engages an external rotatable device or turret  1118 . When the arm  1116  disengages a portion of the external turret  1118 , such as disengaging a tooth or notch in the turret  1118 , the axle  1110  can rotate. When the arm  1116  engages a portion of the external turret  1118 , such as engaging a tooth or notch in the turret  1118 , the axle  1110  is prevented or otherwise limited from rotating. In this example, the arm  1116  can be manually manipulated by a user to dispense a selected beverage container, such as  1106 , from the column  1102 . 
       FIG. 12  illustrates another example of a vending dispenser assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. This example assembly  1200  can be implemented with a stand alone-type beverage dispenser similar to the dispenser shown as  100  in  FIG. 1 . The assembly  1200  shown includes at least one product storage column  1202 , and a product selection device  1204 . Similar to the example in  FIG. 4 , this assembly  1200  can include one or more columns  1202  separated by vertically-oriented partitions between columns. Within each column  1202 , multiple beverage containers  1206 , such as bottles or cans, can be arranged for gravity-fed type dispensing from the respective column. By way of gravity, the containers  1206  can be channeled towards the product selection device  1204  adjacent to a lower portion of the respective column  1202 . 
     The product selection device  1204  shown can include a rotatable device or pivoting door  1208 . The pivoting door  1208  can be manipulated by a user to permit at least one container  1206  to be dispensed from the column  1202  and towards an access opening and door  1208 . In this example, the pivoting door  1208  can be manually manipulated by a user to dispense the selected beverage, such as  1206 , from the column  1202 . Various configurations for a rotatable device or pivoting door  1208  can be used with embodiments of the invention, such as a gate or other type of selective access door. In the example shown, the pivoting door  1208  can include a specific geometry, such as an angled surface, that permits the door  1208  to rotate to receive a single container  1206  from the column  1202 , while maintaining other containers in the column  1202  for subsequent dispensing. Furthermore, the geometry of the door  1208  permits the door  1208  to rotate in another direction to permit access to the dispensed container  1206 . 
       FIG. 13  is an example under the counter-type beverage dispenser with a vending dispenser assembly according to an embodiment of the invention. The beverage dispenser  1300  shown can be mounted in a variety of locations depending on space requirements, such as beneath a countertop  1302  in a retail establishment. In general, an under the counter-type beverage dispenser, such as  1300  in  FIG. 13 , can include a storage compartment  1304 , a consumer access opening  1306 , a maintenance door  1308 , and a vending dispenser assembly  1310  (shown in the interior of the dispenser  1300  in this example). Typically, the beverage dispenser  1300  can dispense pre-packaged beverages in cans or other containers. Multiple cans or containers can be loaded into the storage compartment  1304  within the dispenser  1300  via the maintenance opening  1308 .  FIGS. 14 and 15  described below illustrate side and detail views, wherein further details associated with the storage compartment  1304  and vending dispenser assembly  1310  are shown. When a consumer is interested in obtaining a beverage from the dispenser  1300 , the consumer or retail personnel can manipulate an access door  1312  to access a beverage within the consumer access opening  1306 . In this example, the vending dispenser assembly  1310  can be manually manipulated by a user to dispense the selected beverage from the storage compartment  1304 . Upon opening the access door  1312 , the vending dispenser assembly  1310  can direct a beverage stored in the storage compartment  1304  towards the access door  1312 . The consumer or retail personnel can obtain the beverage from the consumer access opening  1306 . 
     Other embodiments of an under the counter-type beverage dispenser can include some or all of the above components, and some embodiments can include other components in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
       FIG. 14  is a side schematic of an example vending dispenser assembly for a beverage dispenser according to an embodiment of the invention. The beverage dispenser  1300  shown includes an access door  1312 , an access opening  1306 , one or more product columns  1400 , and a vending dispenser assembly  1310  including one or more turret assemblies  1402  and a shuttle assembly  1404 . In this example, similar to the beverage dispenser described in  FIGS. 1-5 , multiple product columns  1400  can be separated by vertically-oriented partitions between columns. Within each column  1400 , multiple beverage containers  1406 , such as bottles or cans, can be arranged for gravity-fed type dispensing from the respective column. By way of gravity, the containers  1406  can be channeled towards the vending dispenser assembly  1400  adjacent to a lower portion of the respective column. 
       FIG. 15  shows a detail side view of the beverage dispenser  1300  and the vending dispenser assembly  1310 . As shown in this view, containers from a column  1400  are gravity fed and channeled towards the vending dispenser assembly  1310 . The vending dispenser assembly  1310  can receive containers from the column  1400 , and direct a particular beverage container such as  1406  towards the access opening  1306  when needed. The vending dispenser assembly  1310  can include a rotatable device, such as a turret  1402  with multiple slots, such as  1500 . In addition, the vending dispenser assembly can include a control device, such as a combination ratchet gear  1502 , toggle  1504 , and pawl  1506 , adapted to control the rotation of the rotatable device or turret. In one embodiment, the turret  1402  can generally be star-shaped with multiple spaced apart slots, such as  1500 , molded or machined into the surface of the turret  1402 . Each slot  1500  can be sized to receive a single beverage container, such as  1406 . The rotatable device or turret  1402  may include multiple turrets or star-shaped wheels mounted on an axle, such as  1508 . The multiple turrets or star-shaped wheels may cooperate to receive one beverage container, such as  1406 , at a time. Similar to the turret shown in  FIGS. 7A and 7B , a rotatable device or turret  1402  in the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 14 and 15  can include multiple out-of-phase slots adapted to receive a beverage container from one or more other columns. When the turret  1402  is rotated, the out-of phase slots can receive containers from other or different columns at different times when each out-of-phase slot is aligned with a corresponding column. 
     In this embodiment, the control device shown is a combination ratchet gear  1502 , toggle  1504 , and pawl  1506 . The example ratchet gear  1502  can be mounted to the turret  1402 , and rotation of the ratchet gear  1502  can transmit a corresponding rotation on the turret  1402  and corresponding slots such as  1500 , and any out-of phase slots. A portion of the toggle  1504 , such as an arm  1510 , can extend towards and contact a portion of the ratchet gear  1502 , such as a tooth  1512 . The toggle  1504  is adapted to control, limit, or otherwise permit selective rotation or movement of the ratchet gear  1502  as needed. As the toggle  1504  is rotated, other extended portions or arms can contact other teeth of the ratchet gear  1502 . For example, in an initial position, the extended arm  1510  of the toggle  1504  may limit or otherwise prevent further rotation of the ratchet gear  1502  and turret  1402  until the arm  1510  is released or actuated. When the toggle  1504  receives sufficient force, such as a manual force applied towards the beverage dispenser  1300  or toggle  1504 , the extended arm  1510  can pivot slightly to another position to permit the toggle  1504  to release from or otherwise decrease the amount of force applied by the arm  1510  to a surface, such as tooth  1512 , of the ratchet gear  1502 . Thus, when the extended arm  1510  is actuated, the rotatable device or turret  1402  can be rotated to permit a container, such as  1406 , to move from an adjacent column, such as  1400 , and into a corresponding slot  1500  of the turret  1402 . The ratchet gear  1502  and rotatable device or turret  1402  can be further rotated to permit the rotatable device or turret  1402  to direct the container  1406  from the slot  1500  towards the shuttle assembly  1404  for further manipulation towards the consumer access opening  1306 . In this example, the vending dispenser assembly  1310  can be manually manipulated by a user to dispense the selected beverage from the product column  1400  as needed. 
     The cradle assembly shown in  FIGS. 14 and 15  includes a shuttle  1514 , a shuttle track  1516 , a shuttle drive assembly  1518  including a set of pulleys  1520  and a drive cable  1522 . These components can cooperate together such that when the access door  1312  is manually opened by a consumer or retail personnel, the shuttle  1514  and a single container, such as  1406 , can be manipulated upward from the lower portion of the column  1400  towards the consumer access opening  1306 . 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 15 , the pawl  1506  can be an extended portion of the shuttle  1514  associated with the shuttle assembly  1404 . The pawl  1506  can be adapted to cooperate with the toggle  1504  when the shuttle assembly  1404  is available to receive a container, such as  1406 . That is, when there is no container being transferred by the shuttle assembly  1404 , the pawl  1506  can be in position to actuate the toggle  1504  to permit rotation of the ratchet gear  1502  and turret  1402  until a container  1406  is released from a column, such as  1400 , to the shuttle assembly  1404 . After a container  1406  is released from the column  1400  to the shuttle assembly  1404 , the pawl  1506  can be positioned to limit or stop further rotation of the ratchet gear  1502  and turret  1402 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 15 , the pawl  1506  can include a pivotable or actuating portion adjacent to a shuttle  1514  of the shuttle assembly  1404 . 
     Other embodiments of a control device or combination ratchet gear  1502 , toggle,  1504 , and pawl  1506  can have other configurations or components, and may cooperate with the rotatable device or turret  1402  in other or similar manners in accordance with the invention. For example, as shown in  FIG. 16 , a pawl trigger  1600  or other pawl-type device may be associated with a toggle  1602  rather than a shuttle, such as  1520  or  1604 , and the shuttle  1604  may pivot depending on whether a container is loaded on the shuttle  1604 . In this example, the shuttle may assume an initial, pivoted position when there is no container loaded on the shuttle  1604 . When the shuttle  1604  is manipulated in an upward direction, an extended portion of the shuttle  1604  can actuate the pawl trigger  1600  to actuate the toggle  1602  and permit rotation of the ratchet gear  1606  and associated turret  1608 . Rotation of the turret  1608  permits a single container  1610  to be transferred from a column  1612  to the shuttle  1604 , and loading of the shuttle  1604  can cause the shuttle  1604  to pivot to an upright, relatively horizontal position. After the container  1610  is loaded onto the shuttle  1604 , and the shuttle  1604  be moved upward along a shuttle track and clear the pawl trigger  1600  without contacting with the trigger  1600 . In this manner, the pawl trigger  1600  and toggle  1602  can limit or otherwise prevent further rotation of the ratchet gear  1606  and turret  1608  until the pawl trigger  1600  is further actuated by the shuttle  1604 . This permits the shuttle  1604  and container  1610  to be manipulated or lifted upward for dispensing to a consumer or retail personnel. After the container  1610  is removed from the shuttle  1604 , the shuttle  1604  returns to an initial, pivoted position, and the pivoted shuttle  1604  can be moved downward along a shuttle track to receive another container from the column  1612 . As the pivoted shuttle  1604  approaches the pawl trigger  1600 , the pawl trigger  1600  can be actuated upon contact with the pivoted shuttle  1604 . The actuation of the pawl trigger actuates the toggle  1602  and permits rotation of the ratchet gear  1606  and associated turret  1608  such that another container can be transferred from the column  1612  to the shuttle  1604  for subsequent dispensing to a consumer or retail personnel. 
       FIG. 17  is a perspective view of another example vending dispenser assembly for a beverage dispenser according to an embodiment of the invention. The example vending dispenser assembly  1700  shown in  FIGS. 17 and 18  can be implemented with an under the counter-type beverage dispenser, similar to  1300  in  FIG. 13 , and according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in  FIG. 18 , which is a side schematic view of the example vending dispenser assembly shown in  FIG. 17 , the vending dispenser assembly  1700  can operate adjacent to one or more product columns  1800 . In this example, similar to the beverage dispensers described in  FIGS. 1-5 , and  6 - 16 , multiple product columns  1800  can be separated by vertically-oriented partitions between columns. Within each column  1800 , multiple beverage containers  1802 , such as bottles or cans, can be arranged for gravity-fed type dispensing from the respective column. By way of gravity, the containers  1802  can be channeled towards the vending dispenser assembly  1700  adjacent to a lower portion of the respective column. 
     The vending dispenser assembly shown can include at least one moveable array  1702  and at least one stationary array  1704 . The moveable array  1702  shown can include a series of pivotable lift arms or extensions  1706  and a corresponding series of lift bars  1708  which are mounted to the lift arms or extensions  1706  in a spaced apart relation along a portion of the array  1702 . Each bar  1708  can be mounted to at least one arm or extension  1706  mounted adjacent to a lateral side of the array, but in the configuration shown, can be mounted to an arm or extension adjacent to each lateral side of the array. In this example, the extensions  1706  and arms  1708  can be spaced apart to permit at least one container, such as a can or bottle, to be horizontally positioned between adjacent bars  1708 . 
     The stationary array  1704  can include a series of relatively flexible or pivotable arms or extensions  1710  which are spaced apart along a portion of the length of the stationary array  1704 . In this example, the extensions  1710  can be spaced apart to permit at least one container, such as a can or bottle, to be horizontally positioned between adjacent extensions  1710 . As shown, the moveable array  1702  and stationary array  1704  can be positioned opposing each other such that the respective series of arms or extensions  1706 ,  1710  of each array  1702 ,  1704  generally face each other. 
     As each container in the product column  1800  is directed towards the vending dispenser assembly  1700 , the moveable array  1702  can be positioned to receive at least one container  1802  from the lower portion of the column  1800  such that the container  1802  is oriented adjacent to the lift bar  1708  and between adjacent extensions  1706 . As the moveable array is manipulated upward by a consumer or retail personnel, the container  1802  is directed upward between the moveable array and the stationary array such that the container  1802  contacts a portion of at least one relatively flexible or pivotable arm or extension  1710  associated with the stationary array  1704 . As the container contacts the flexible or pivotable arm or extension  1710 , the extension flexes or pivots from an initial position towards a flexed or pivoted position to permit the container to continue traveling upward. After the container has traveled further, the extension  1710  returns or pivots back to the initial position. In this manner, the container can be retained at a certain position by the extensions of the stationary array if the moveable array is manipulated downward, or if the moveable array continues to move upward, the container can continue to be directed upward past one or more flexible or pivotable arm or extensions associated with the stationary array. Furthermore, in this example, the vending dispenser assembly  1700  can be manually manipulated by a user to dispense a selected beverage from the product column  1800 . 
     Other embodiments of a moveable array and stationary array for a vending dispenser assembly can have other types of array configurations or components, and may cooperate with each other, or other parts of a vending dispenser assembly in other or similar manners in accordance with the invention. 
     It should be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the foregoing relates only to embodiments of the invention and that numerous changes and modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the following claims and equivalents thereof.