Pneumatic product vending system and product loader therefor

Abstract

An existing product vending machine, such as a refrigerated vending machine provided by a bottled soft drink manufacturer or distributer, is adapted to serve as a storage and loading device for use in a pneumatic vending and delivery system by installing an interface unit in place of the vending machine door. The interface unit may be configured to mount on hinges or other pre-existing panel supporting structure of the vending machine and to lock to pre-existing latching structure on the vending machine. Alternatively, the dispensing mechanism and product storage supply from one or more product vending machines may be installed in a vault and equipped with one or more of the interfaces. The interface is provided with a loading tube that connects to the upstream end of the tube of a pneumatic conveyor of the vending and delivery system. A loading port at the lower end of the loading tube, which may have a pivotal closure that serves as a landing pad to catch and load a dispensed product into and to close the port, preferably with the product base, e.g. the bottom of a soft drink bottle, facing forward in the tube. A blower at the base of the loading tube blows the product through the tube when a product is loaded. The interface includes wiring that interconnects the system controller with the dispensing mechanism so bottles are selectively loaded as selected at the vending system entry panel. The interface is preferably insulated on the inside wall thereof with the loading tube and blower lying on the outside of the refrigerated volume.