초록 ▼

A self-service kiosk having a walk-in enclosure, interactive selection panel, multi-section inventory storage area for dispensing items and accepting returns. User selections are entered via instructions entered at an interactive panel containing a selection menu of graphical icons and messages. A p

A self-service kiosk having a walk-in enclosure, interactive selection panel, multi-section inventory storage area for dispensing items and accepting returns. User selections are entered via instructions entered at an interactive panel containing a selection menu of graphical icons and messages. A programmable controller monitors entered identification data and payments to control the dispensing and return of selected items from assigned storage locations via X-Y-Z track driven, transfer and end effect assemblies. Associated software manages payment transactions via a bill receiver, coin changer, credit card verifier, and receipt printer and develops associated administrative inventory status reports. One end effect includes a hook that interconnects to storage trays. The end effect extends and retracts the trays onto a support platform and conveys the trays and items back and forth from the storage space. A reciprocating comb assembly is also included that cooperates with a magnetic end effect and transfer container.

대표청구항 ▼

1. A self-service kiosk comprising:(a) a portable multi-walled enclosure surrounding a plurality of shelves and including a port communicating with the exterior of said enclosure, wherein said shelves support a plurality of drawers, and wherein at least one of said plurality of drawers includes a bo

1. A self-service kiosk comprising:(a) a portable multi-walled enclosure surrounding a plurality of shelves and including a port communicating with the exterior of said enclosure, wherein said shelves support a plurality of drawers, and wherein at least one of said plurality of drawers includes a bottom that circumscribes an inventory storage space; (b) data entry means responsive to a plurality of user identification codes for interactively selecting items of inventory stored in said drawers upon receipt of one of said plurality of codes and data defining each selected inventory item; (c) drawer coupling means for coupling to each of said plurality of drawers; (d) inventory transfer means including a support platform for supporting each of said drawers and manipulating each selected drawer between said shelves and said port; and (d) controller means responsive to said data entry means for conveying said drawer coupling means and inventory transfer means to selected ones of said drawers for axially withdrawing selected ones of said plurality of drawers from said shelves onto said support platform and for conveying said support platform and extracted tray to said port to deliver a stored inventory item.