Dispensing mechanism for centralized robotic gantry

Abstract

A vending arrangement for computerized vending machines, retail displays, automated retail stores, utilizes a centralized, robotic gantry associated with companion modules for vending a plurality of selectable products. The modularized design enables deployment of half-sized or larger, full sized machines. The robotic gantry is deployed in a centralized module disposed adjacent display and inventory modules. Inventory modules can be fitted to both gantry sides, and doors can be fitted to the gantry front or rear. The gantry comprises an internal, vertically displaceable elevator utilizing a central conveyor for laterally, horizontally moving selected items from associated display and inventory positions to a vending position. Computerized software enables the display and vending functions, and controls elevator movement to dispense products from twin sides of the gantry by appropriately controlling the conveyor.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A modularized vending machine, retail display, or automated retail store comprising:
 a central robotic gantry comprising an upright enclosure with a pair of sides and a front and a back, an internal elevator, means for vertically moving the elevator within the gantry, the elevator comprising a transverse conveyor for moving items laterally;   at least one inventory cabinet attached to at least one gantry side;   at least one door fitted upon the front or back of the gantry, the doors comprising a product vend area; and   at least one display module proximate said gantry, the display module containing items to be vended, the display module comprising a plurality of physical displays in which items to be vended are visibly housed.