Abstract: A microprocessor controlled system for monitoring, storing and periodically reporting on data pertinent to the commercial operation of a reporting system, such as a soft drink vending machine, to a central data collection and monitoring computer, and which periodically reports such data over a telephone line which it accesses on a nondedicated basis. The microprocessor controls operations of the telelink system, and stores in memory data related to the overall status of the commercial operation of the reporting system, such as totals, inventory, etc. Reporting system status sensors are provided for reporting on the status of the reporting system without interrupting normal operation thereof, such that a problem with the operation of or a malfunction of the telelink system does not adversely affect operation of the reporting system.

Abstract: A vending machine designed to increase the flexibility of product storage and distribution therein, allowing specific product capacities to be increased or decreased in small increments without a loss of product selection. In the vending machine, a plurality of substantially vertical partitions define a plurality of vertical adjacent columns for product storage, wherein adjacent product storage columns are separated by a vertical partition. A removable product transfer shelf is placed at a selected vertical position in at least one particular product storage column, such that products below the transfer shelf are vended by actuation of the vending mechanism for that particular product column, while products above the transfer shelf are transferred thereby to an adjacent product column to be vended by the vending machine for the adjacent product column.