Automated Vending Machine Weighing Solution | GALOCE

In this article, we'll explore the features and benefits of unmanned vending machines, focusing on how they overcome operational challenges through innovative solutions like weight sensor integration.

What are the features and benefits of unmanned vending machines?

Unmanned vending machines, also known as intelligent or automatic vending machines, are 24-hour self-service systems powered by Internet of Things (IoT) technology. These machines can dispense a wide variety of products, including beverages, snacks, instant noodles, vegetables, and fruits, and are commonly found in locations such as residential areas, airports, cinemas, hospitals, and office buildings. Their primary goal is to provide consumers with a convenient and efficient shopping experience.

How do unmanned vending machines operate?

The design of unmanned vending machines resembles traditional vertical glass-door refrigerated cabinets but includes features such as QR codes and automatic electromagnetic locks. Customers can easily open the machine's door by scanning a QR code, allowing them to select and retrieve items effortlessly.

What challenges do current systems face?

Many unmanned vending machines on the market rely solely on cameras for object detection through image recognition technology. However, this approach has limitations:

• Blind Spots: Cameras may fail to detect small items or those not positioned correctly within their field of view.
• Human Obstruction: If a person obstructs the camera's view, it can lead to payment failures and operational losses.

How are these challenges being addressed?

To enhance reliability, modern unmanned vending machines now incorporate gravity sensing devices alongside camera technology. By utilizing weight sensors, these machines can:

• Detect Changes in Product Weight: This dual approach ensures that even if an item is blocked from the camera's view, the weight sensor can still confirm its presence.
• Provide Double Insurance for Transactions: Combining weight detection with image recognition significantly reduces the likelihood of payment failures.

How are products organized in unmanned vending machines?

Unmanned vending machines are typically organized into several independent channels on each shelf based on product categories. Each channel is equipped with one or multiple load cells that detect changes in the weight of the products stored within. This setup allows the machine to monitor the quantity or weight of products taken by consumers accurately.In summary, unmanned vending machines represent a significant advancement in retail technology, offering convenience and efficiency while addressing common challenges associated with traditional vending systems. By integrating advanced sensing technologies, these machines enhance user experience and operational effectiveness in various environments.

Load cell recommended: The core component in the weighing unit is the load cell, which can be selected based on the size of the weighing platform and the weight of the items being weighed. The selection criteria are as follows:

Model	Capacity (kg)	Accuracy (%F.S)	L*W*H(mm)	Platform size(mm)	Output signal	Installation
GPB100R	3～100	0.02	130*30*22	300*250	mV	Single piece
GPB100D	3～50	Division 1g	130*30*22	300*250	RS485/RS232	Single piece
GPB158	60～300	0.02	150*38*22	400*400	mV	Single piece
GPB158D	60～300	Division 2g/5g	150*38*22	400*400	RS485/RS232	Single piece
GPB200R	7.5～600	0.05～0.02	70*45*4.5	600*600	mV	Four pieces
GML611R	1～50	0.05～0.02	80*12.7*12.7	200*200	mV	Single piece
GPB162D	1～10	Division 0.1/1g	80*14*15	200*300	RS485/RS232	Single piece