Abstract: A vending apparatus comprises a cabinet for storing a plurality of items available for purchase; a memory for storing product data associated with the plurality of items; a message device for visually or audibly reproducing selected segments of the stored product data; an input device for receiving selection and designation data from a user in accordance with the data in the message device; a deposit mechanism for receiving payment for items selected for purchase; and a dispenser responsive to the deposit mechanism and the input device for ejecting items selected by the user for receipt by the user.

Abstract: A data exchanging system, for exchanging data between electrical devices, such as, an automatic vending machine and a data collecting device, is disclosed. Each device includes a data delivery section for converting data into a signal resembling the light reflected by a bar code when the bar code is optically scanned, a data receiving section for receiving data in the form of optically coded signals, and a control device for controlling the operation of the data delivery section and decoding data provided from the data receiving section.

Abstract: An automatic vending machine is disclosed that operates in response to a card inserted by a user. The card contains identification information which is used to access data stored in a memory device regarding the amount of money the user has credited to his account. If the account balance exceeds the purchase price of a desired item, the item is supplied to the user and the amount of the purchase is deducted from his account. A user may increase his account balance at any time by inserting money into the machine. Security is maintained through the use of a security code which the user inputs into the machine after the card is inserted.

Abstract: An automatic vending machine is arranged so as to dispense a sale only when card identifying information which has been registered and card identifying information which is input are collated and the result of collation verifies a valid registration. The machine has means for inputting card identifying information, a registered card memory unit for storing card identifying information input from the inputting means, and a control circuit having the function of registering in the registered card memory unit card identifying information which is input from the inputting means.

Abstract: A data collection system, for gathering data from remotely located machines such as automatic vending machines, includes a data delivery section in each of the machines adapted for converting the data to be gathered into a signal resembling the light reflected by a bar code when the bar code is optically scanned. The system also includes a portable bar code reader for converting the light signal into an electric signal.