Abstract: A means and method to utilize government-issued food stamp credit to purchase items from a vending machine. The food stamp credit is to be received through a monetary device and validated through the vending machine control network. The network will validate the transaction and allow or limit the type of purchases based on information collected from the food stamp government program rules and regulations. The invention is applicable to any electronic benefit transfer (EBT) type program or analogous transactions.

Abstract: An apparatus, method, and system of dispensing merchandise packaged with a hole at the top. An inventory of merchandise packaged with a hole at the top to be vended are supported on a horizontal surface. The horizontal surface is selectively actuated to provide controlled movement of each item to a dispensing location. The surface is a helically shaped member contained within a dispensing module. An electrical system operatively connects each dispensing module to a controller. The controller can be programmed to actuate movement of the surface. It can also optionally require an authorization input and/or identification input, and keep track of each dispension. This information can be stored in a manner to track usage to individuals and control inventory in the dispenser.

Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method of monitoring performance of a currency detector such as a coin acceptor or bill validator. Status of the currency detector relative to each item introduced to it is tracked. A ratio of rejected items to accepted items is compiled over a given period of time to create a rejection rate. Rejection rate can be displayed or communicated to another device. The rejection rate can be used to indicate poor operation or malfunction of the currency detector. It may indicate attempts at cheating. It also can be used to attempt to improve performance or adjust or train operation of the currency detector. Analogous techniques can be used to monitor performance of a credit card or proximity card reader.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for lifting a dispensed product in a vending machine includes a lift member positioned in the path of a vended item. A control member, manually movable between first and second positions, raises the lift member to in turn raise a vended item.

Abstract: A dispensing apparatus and method for vending machines includes in one embodiment vertical vending from one or more columns. Each column is defined by two walls. A triggering mechanism at the bottom of the column is actuated by the rotation of a rod from the top of the column. The triggering mechanism blocks items placed along the column from being dropped out the bottom of the column to a delivery area but also controls when such dispensation occurs. The configuration allows items of different sizes, shapes, and types to be loaded into the column and therefore allows the column to be easily adapted to dispense a wide variety of items.