Abstract: A combination vending/return apparatus and method. The apparatus includes a series of rows and columns for receiving, storing and dispensing unfilled and filled large-volume water-containing bottles from and to consumers. The apparatus includes a computer-operated vending keyboard for making bottle selections for purchase and returns, and to handle electronic payment and credit transactions. Also included is a method to vend large-volume water bottles and retrieve used and emptied large-volume water bottles.

Abstract: A combination vending/return apparatus includes a series of stacked counter-sloped, gravity fed track assemblies with radiused transition segments to receive and store empty large-volume bottles and to deliver pre-filled large-volume fluid-containing bottles. The apparatus is configured to accommodate, among other sizes, at least one of three (3) gallon, (4) four gallon, or (5) five gallon size bottles. A. dual elevator subassembly permits filled bottle dispensing and empty bottle receiving from a single door. The apparatus includes a processor-controlled transaction panel to make bottle selections for purchases and returns, and to handle electronic payment, promotional and credit transactions. Also disclosed is a method to vend large-volume fluid-containing bottles and retrieve used and emptied large-volume water bottles.

Abstract: A combination vending/return apparatus and method. The apparatus includes a series of rows and columns for receiving, storing and dispensing unfilled and filled large-volume water-containing bottles from and to consumers. The apparatus includes a computer-operated vending keyboard for making bottle selections for purchase and returns, and to handle electronic payment and credit transactions. Also included is a method to vend large-volume water bottles and retrieve used and emptied large-volume water bottles.