Abstract: In a duplicated communications processing system having a function of transferring data between a first system and a second system, a first communications device is connected to a first communications line and has n processes to be executed in the first communications device where n is an integer. A second communications device is connected to a second communications line and has n processes to be executed in the second communications device. A control unit determines whether or not one of the first and second communications device is down due to an overload resulting from data received via a corresponding one of the first and second communications lines, and inhibits m processes among the n processes from being executed in the other one of the first and second communications devices when determining that one of the first and second communications devices is down in order to reduce the load on the other one of the first and second communications devices, the above m being an integer smaller than the n.

Abstract: A serpentine-type merchandise storing and dispensing column used for an automatic vending machine has a pair of opposing, generally vertically disposed wave-formed walls forming a serpentine merchandise storing space therebetween. Each wall includes a plurality of arcuate boards pivotally coupled to a frame and are disposed generally vertically in succession. The arcuate boards of one wall are disposed in a staggered arrangement with respect to the levels of the arcuate boards of the opposing wall. Each arcuate board is urged by a tension-spring so as to pivotally swing into the serpentine merchandise storing space. Thus, the board cushions descending merchandise in the serpentine merchandise storing space. Each arcuate board has a plurality of vibration absorbing slots and a plurality of beads between, and in parallel with, the slots.