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Vision Feedback Detection for Vending Machines and the Like

  • US 20080033596A1
  • Filed: 07/06/2007
  • Published: 02/07/2008
  • Est. Priority Date: 07/06/2006
  • Status: Abandoned Application
First Claim
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1. Apparatus for dispensing items, comprising:

  • a storage structure for storing a plurality of different types of items to be dispensed;

    a dispensing mechanism for selectively causing items in the storage structure to be transported to a dispensed area, from which dispensed items can be retrieved;

    at least one sensor for generating visual images, the sensor arranged for viewing at least a portion of the vending area; and

    one or more processing entities comprised of one or more circuits executing predefined logic processes, the processing entities in communication with the sensor and dispensing mechanism, the processing entities programmed to perform the following processes;

    detecting items in the vending area based at least in part on the visual images, and determining whether an item has been vended to the vending area based at least in part on whether an item has been detected.

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