Methods and apparatus for minimizing waste in vending machines
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United States of America Patent
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N/A
Issued Date -
Jan 20, 2005
app pub date -
Jun 28, 2004
filing date -
Jun 30, 2003
priority date (Note) -
Abandoned
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Abstract
Approaches for minimizing waste in vending machines are addressed. A vend controller and vend control software determine when product having a limited shelf life is approaching the end of that shelf life and a display indicates to a customer that an appropriate discount exists if he or she wants to purchase the product. For vending machines connected in a monitoring network, the determination regarding approaching the end of the shelf life and an appropriate discount can be made remotely and transmitted to the vending machine, eliminating the need for increased complexity in the vending machine control electronics. Vending of stale products can be prevented using either approach and customers can be informed that the product is near the end of its shelf life and afforded an opportunity to knowledgably purchase the product or not, insuring increased customer satisfaction with the vending experience.
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