UNIT III

I. Topic/Title
1) Vending Machine Controls
a. Different Types of Vending Machines Controls
b. Principles of Different Types of Vending Machines Controls
c. How to Install to Different Types of Vending Machines Controls
II. Motivational Activity
Game Title: “Vending Machine Mastermind”
In this game, students will test their knowledge of vending machine controls through a
fun and interactive trivia challenge. The class will be divided into three groups, and
each group will receive card board and a chalk to write their answers. The reporter
will read 10 multiple-choice trivia questions, and groups must write their chosen
answer (A, B, C, or D) on the bond paper. They will have 10 seconds to decide, and
when the reporter says “Show your answer!”, all groups must raise their answer at the
same time. Each correct answer is worth one point, and the group with the highest
score at the end wins. The winning group will receive a special prize, but all teams are
encouraged to participate actively and learn from the game.
1. What is the primary control used to select an item in most vending machines?
A) A touchscreen B) A dial C) Buttons or keypads D) A lever
2. What is the primary function of a vending machine control system?
A) To store money securely B) To allow users to select, pay for, and receive
products C) To increase the price of items automatically D) To communicate with
other vending machines
3. Remote monitoring of a vending machine is often done through:
A) Manual inspection B) A network connection C) On-site sensors only
D) A local area network (LAN) only
4. Vending machine control systems are typically powered by:
A) Solar power B) Batteries C) Mains electricity D) Both b and c
5. Sensors in a vending machine control system primarily:
A) Dispense products B) Detect product selection C) Process payments
D) Control temperature
6. How do most vending machines indicate that they have received your payment?
 A) With a loud beep only B) With a visual and/or auditory signal C) By
printing a receipt D) By opening the door immediately
7. What happens if you insert incorrect change into a vending machine?
A) The machine automatically corrects it. B) The coin return usually dispenses
it. C) The purchase is still processed. D) The machine jams.
8. What is the purpose of a “Change Return” button or mechanism?
A) To dispense the correct change B) To return any remaining money C) To
accept bills D) To select an item
9. What is the purpose of the dispensing mechanism?
A) To accept payment B) To release the selected item C) To display prices
D) To reject invalid coins
10. What advancement allowed for the introduction of electronic displays on vending
machines?
A) The invention of the light bulb B) The development of LCD and LED
technology C) The use of cathode ray tubes D) The development of holographic
technology
III. Lesson Proper
A. Abstraction

What is a Vending Machine?

A vending machine is an automated device that dispenses goods such as snacks, beverages,
tickets, or other items when a user inserts payment and selects a product. These machines
operate without human intervention and are commonly found in public places like offices,
schools, malls, and transportation hubs.

What Are Vending Machine Controls?

Vending machine controls refer to the systems and components that manage the operation of
a vending machine. These controls regulate functions such as payment processing, product
selection, dispensing, security, and inventory tracking.

Vending machines are available in many public places for vending of items like snacks,
beverages, newspapers, tickets and smoking cigarettes Recently developed vending machine
requires a control system to offer a variety of products to the general public. In this light, this
paper, therefore, is aimed at developing a control system for the developed vending machine
by developing various inputs required to make the machine function efficiently. The system
controls and monitors the vending machine functions, namely: alarm system, product
dispensing, refrigeration and payment system. The microcomputer capitalises on the
evolution of high-performance processors and stable operating systems to implement control
requirements. The project shall use intelligent vending machine input/output board to link
other machine peripherals. The control system shall enable the machine to handle coin,
mobile and point of sale terminal payment options. Implementation of the control system
enhances flexibility in payment, remote machine monitoring and inventory control, and
improved user experience through the integration of digital touch screen user interfaces and
high-speed transaction processing.

Vending machines utilize various controls to manage their operations, from dispensing
products to accepting payments. Here are some common types:

Different Types of Vending Principles of Different

Machine Controls Types of Vending Machine
Controls
1. Payment System
Controls
Coin Acceptors: These These mechanisms
mechanisms recognize valid authenticate coins based on
coins and calculate their their physical properties
value. They can be single- (diameter, thickness, weight,
price or multi-price, and sometimes magnetic
allowing for different signature). They use sensors
product costs. (often optical or
electromechanical) to
identify valid currency.
Older models might be
single-price, while newer
ones can handle various
denominations. Regular
cleaning is crucial to
maintain accuracy.
Bill Validators: These These devices verify
accept paper currency, banknotes using a
authenticate it, and convert combination of techniques,
it to electronic value. including optical sensors
analyzing image features,
magnetic ink recognition,
and even conductivity tests
to detect counterfeits. They
dispense change (if
equipped) and signal the
vending machine controller
to release the product.
Jamming is a common issue,
requiring careful
troubleshooting and
sometimes part replacement
Card Readers: Vending They communicate with
machines can now accept payment processors to
credit cards, debit cards, and authorize transactions and
contactless payment relay this information to the
methods like NFC and vending machine’s
RFID. controller. The presence of
a card reader significantly
boosts sales

Mobile Payment Systems: These integrate with mobile

Some machines integrate wallets and apps, allowing
with mobile payment customers to pay via their
platforms like Apple Pay or smartphones. This option
Google Pay, allowing users enhances convenience and
to pay with their cashless transactions.
smartphones.

2. Product Dispensing
Controls
Vending Motors: These are These motors provide the
specialized motors designed power to move products
for product dispensing. from storage to the
dispensing area. The type of
motor depends on the
machine’s design; some use
simple rotation, while others
employ more complex
systems
Conveyor Belts: These These belts transport items
move products along a track along a path, often used in
to the dispensing point. machines dispensing larger
or bulkier products.

Coil Spring Motors: These These motors use springs to

are used for dispensing push products forward,
products like candy bars. common in simpler vending
machines.

Sensors: These detect the Various sensors monitor

presence or absence of different aspects of the
products in the machine, machine’s operation:
ensuring accurate dispensing product detection (ensuring
and preventing errors. a product has been
dispensed), coin/bill
acceptance, temperature,
customer presence (motion
sensors), etc.
Pneumatic Components: These use compressed air to
Some machines use air power certain functions,
pressure to dispense such as opening doors or
products, particularly for activating dispensing
items like chips or snacks. mechanisms.

3. Machine Control
Systems
Vending Machine It receives Input from
Controllers (VMC): These sensors, payment systems,
are the “brains” of the and selection buttons, and
vending machine, controls the dispensing
coordinating all its mechanism, lighting, and
operations. They manage other features. Modern
payment processing, product VMCs often use MDB or
dispensing, and DEX protocols for
communication with other communication
devices.
MDB (Multi Drop Bus): This is a communication
This is a standardized protocol that allows different
communication protocol that components within the
allows the VMC to vending machine (payment
communicate with various systems, controllers, etc.) to
peripherals like coin communicate efficiently.
changers, bill validators, and
card readers.
DEX (Digital Exchange): DEX data allows operators
This technology enables to plan efficient routes,
real-time data transfer from reducing unnecessary
the vending machine to a service visits and saving
remote monitoring system, time and fuel. DEX can
providing detailed detect malfunctions and
information about sales, report them to operators,
inventory, and machine allowing for prompt repairs
performance. and minimizing downtime

4. User Interface
Controls
Selection Buttons or These buttons are typically
Keypads: These buttons arranged in a grid or row,
allow users to choose the corresponding to the
desired product. Some available products. Pressing
machines use keypads for a button triggers a specific
entering PINs or selecting electrical signal.
options. The control board receives
the electrical signals from
the selection buttons. It
interprets these signals,
determines the selected
product, and sends
commands to other
components and activates
the appropriate dispensing
mechanism.
LCD Displays: These The LCD screen itself
screens display product displays information to the
information, prices, and user. It can be monochrome
messages. or color, with varying
resolutions and touch screen
capabilities.
The control board receives
input from the user (via
buttons or touch screen) and
processes it. It also sends
signals to the LCD to
display the appropriate
information.
A microprocessor is often
integrated into the control
board, providing the
intelligence to manage the
display, process user input,
and control other vending
machine functions.
The software running on the
microprocessor defines the
user interface, manages
product information, and
controls the overall
operation of the LCD
display.
Touch Screens: Modern The touch screen itself acts
vending machines may have as both the display and the
touchscreens for a more input device. It can be
intuitive user experience. capacitive or resistive,
offering varying levels of
sensitivity and
responsiveness. The user
interacts with the touch
screen by tapping, swiping,
or dragging their finger
across the display.
The touch screen registers
the user's input and
generates electrical signals
that are transmitted to the
control board.
The control board interprets
the signals, determines the
user's selection or action,
and sends commands to the
touch screen and other
vending machine
components.
The touch screen receives
the commands from the
control board and updates its
content accordingly. This
can involve displaying
product information, pricing,
promotional messages, or
user feedback.
5. Other Controls
Lighting: Vending machines Vending machines typically
often have internal lighting use fluorescent or LED
to illuminate products and lights. LEDs offer higher
make them visible, creating energy efficiency, longer
a welcoming atmosphere, lifespan, and greater control
and potentially influencing over color and brightness.
purchasing decisions. The control board receives
Vending machine lighting input from the user (via
controls are designed to buttons or a touch screen)
provide efficient and and processes it. It also
effective illumination while sends signals to the lighting
minimizing energy system to adjust brightness,
consumption. color, or even activate
motion sensors.
Some vending machines
incorporate sensors, such as
motion sensors, to activate
the lights only when a
customer approaches. This
can significantly reduce
energy consumption.
Timers can be used to
control the lighting
schedule, turning the lights
on and off at specific times
of day or night. This can be
especially useful for
reducing energy use during
off-peak hours.
Security Cameras: These Cameras are often discreetly
can be used for monitoring integrated into the vending
the machine and deterring machine’s design,
theft. minimizing their visibility to
deter theft while maximizing
their effectiveness in
capturing evidence. The type
of camera used (e.g., high-
definition, thermal, or
pinhole) depends on the
specific security needs and
environment. A pinhole
camera, for example, can be
easily hidden from view.
Security cameras in vending
machines typically record
video footage continuously
or upon motion detection .
This footage is stored locally
on an SD card or DVR, or
remotely in the cloud. The
storage capacity and
recording duration are key
considerations, balancing
the need for sufficient
footage with storage
limitations and costs.
Many modern vending
machine security cameras
offer remote monitoring
capabilities . Operators can
access live video feeds and
recorded footage remotely
via the internet or a local
 network using dedicated
software or mobile
applications. This allows for
real-time monitoring and
quick response to any
incidents. Security cameras
are often integrated with
other security measures,
such as alarms and locks , to
create a comprehensive
security system. For
example, a motion sensor
might trigger both the
camera recording and an
alarm to alert the operator of
potential theft or vandalism
Temperature Control: Temperature Sensors and
Vending machines for Thermostats:
beverages or other Temperature sensors
temperature-sensitive continuously monitor the
products have thermostats temperature inside the
and refrigeration systems. vending machine's
compartments. This data is
transmitted to a thermostat,
which controls the
refrigeration system's
operation. The thermostat
adjusts the refrigeration
system's output to maintain
the set temperature, ensuring
the products remain within
the desired range.
Air Circulation:
 Proper air circulation is
vital for maintaining a
consistent temperature
throughout the
compartments. Fans are used
to circulate the cold air,
ensuring even cooling and
preventing temperature
gradients.
Ventilation:
Ventilation systems allow
for the removal of excess
heat and moisture from the
vending machine’s interior.
This prevents condensation
and ensures a stable
environment for the
products. Temperature
control in vending machines
relies on a combination of
hardware, software, and
operational practices.
Receipt Printers: These Vending machines
provide receipts for commonly utilize thermal
purchases. These printers receipt printers, which use
provide transaction proof for heat to print on specialized
customers and help heat-sensitive paper. These
businesses maintain accurate printers are compact, quiet,
sales records. Receipts from and relatively inexpensive,
vending machines contain making them ideal for
essential transaction details vending applications. Other
that help customers and types, like impact printers,
businesses track purchases. are less common due to their
 The information printed larger size and noise.
varies depending on the Data Processing and
machine’s setup, business Formatting:
requirements, and regulatory The vending machine's
compliance. software processes
transaction data and formats
it for printing. This includes
information like the date,
time, product name,
quantity, price, and total
amount. The software also
controls the layout and font
style of the printed receipt.
Paper Handling and Roll
Management:
Receipt printers use rolls of
specialized paper. The
printer's control system
manages paper loading, roll
detection, and low-paper
alerts. This ensures
continuous operation and
prevents interruptions due to
paper shortages.
These different controls work together to ensure the smooth operation of vending machines,
providing a convenient and reliable way for users to purchase products.
 Vending Machine Activity Diagram

Coin payment diagram Card Payment Diagram Mobile phone payment flow
diagram
 Product status alarm Operation of alarm system Overall system configuration

How to Install Different Types of Vending Machine Controls

Installing vending machine components requires proper wiring, configuration, and testing to
ensure smooth operation. Below is a guide for installing various vending machine control
systems and hardware components.

1. Payment Systems Installation

Coin Acceptors

Installation Steps:

1. Mount the Coin Acceptor – Secure it inside the vending machine near the payment
slot.
2. Connect to the VMC (Vending Machine Controller) – Use the MDB (Multi Drop Bus)
or serial interface.
3. Test Coin Acceptance – Insert different coins to verify correct operation.
4. Calibrate the Coin Acceptor – Adjust settings for accepted denominations.

Bill Validators

Installation Steps:

1. Mount the Validator – Secure it inside the machine’s payment panel.

 2. Connect to Power & MDB System – Link the wiring to the VMC.
3. Update Firmware (If Needed) – Load currency recognition software
4. Test Bill Acceptance – Insert different bills to ensure proper validation.

Card Readers (Credit/Debit/RFID)

Installation Steps:

1. Attach the Card Reader – Secure it to the vending machine’s payment panel.
2. Connect to the MDB System – Wire it to the VMC and payment gateway.
3. Configure Network Access – Connect to WiFi, 4G, or an Ethernet line.
4. Perform a Test Transaction – Use a card to check communication with the bank
server.

Mobile Payment Systems (QR Code/NFC)

Installation Steps:

1. Install the QR Code Scanner or NFC Module – Mount it in an accessible position.

2. Connect to VMC and Internet – Ensure proper communication with the payment
gateway.
3. Test Transaction Processing – Use a smartphone wallet (Google Pay, Apple Pay, etc.).
2. Product Dispensing Components

Motors & Vending Motors

Installation Steps:

1. Secure Motors in Place – Attach them to the dispensing system (spirals, conveyors,
etc.).
2. Wire to the VMC – Ensure proper voltage and wiring connections.
3. Calibrate Rotation & Power Levels – Adjust torque and speed settings.
4. Test Motor Functionality – Run a test cycle with different selections.

Conveyor Belts

Installation Steps:

1. Install the Belt System – Align the conveyor and motor.

2. Connect to the Motor Drive – Ensure smooth movement without misalignment.
3. Adjust Speed & Tension – Prevent jams and uneven movement.
 4. Test with Different Product Weights – Verify consistent dispensing.

Spirals & Coil Spring Motors

Installation Steps:

1. Mount the Spirals – Ensure they are aligned with product slots.
2. Connect Motors to the VMC – Use wiring compatible with the power supply.
3. Calibrate Rotation Timing – Adjust motor pulses for correct product release.
4. Test Different Product Sizes – Ensure proper vending without jamming.

Sensors & Pneumatic Components

Sensors (Optical, Weight, Motion, Product Detection)

Installation Steps:

1. Mount the Sensors – Place them at the product drop area.

2. Connect to the VMC – Wire them to detect successful transactions.
3. Calibrate Sensitivity – Ensure detection for different product sizes.
4. Test with Sample Products – Check response accuracy.

Pneumatic Components

Installation Steps:

1. Install Air Compressors & Cylinders – Secure them near the dispensing mechanism.
2. Connect Air Hoses & Regulators – Ensure consistent pressure levels.
3. Wire to the VMC – Integrate with control signals for smooth operation.
4. Test for Proper Actuation – Ensure correct movement with sample products.

Control Systems & Communication Protocols

Vending Machine Controllers (VMC)

Installation Steps:

1. Secure the VMC Inside the Machine – Ensure proper airflow for cooling.
2. Connect Payment Systems, Motors, and Sensors – Match labeled ports.
3. Upload Software & Configure Settings – Adjust pricing, inventory, and security.
4. Perform Full System Test – Check each component’s response.

MDB (Multi Drop Bus) System

Installation Steps:

1. Install the MDB Hub – Secure it near the VMC.

2. Connect MDB-Compatible Devices – Payment systems, motors, and sensors.
3. Test Communication Signals – Ensure all components respond correctly.

DEX (Digital Exchange) System

Installation Steps:

1. Install the DEX Port – Secure it near the machine’s data interface.
2. Connect to VMC & Remote Monitoring System – Enable cloud-based tracking.
3. Test Data Transmission – Verify inventory and sales reports.

User Interface Components

Selection Buttons & Keypads

Installation Steps:

1. Mount the Buttons/Keypad – Align with product selection grid.

2. Wire to VMC Input Panel – Ensure correct button mapping.
3. Test Button Press Sensitivity – Verify selection accuracy.

LCD Display & Touch Screen

Installation Steps:

1. Secure the Screen Panel – Attach it to the vending machine’s front.

2. Connect Power & Data Cables – Ensure proper brightness and touch response.
3. Calibrate Touch Sensitivity & Menu Display – Optimize user experience.

Lighting & Security Cameras

Installation Steps:

1. Install LED Lights – Place them inside and outside the machine.
2. Connect to Power Supply – Adjust brightness settings.
3. Mount Security Cameras – Ensure a clear view of payment and dispensing areas.
4. Connect to DVR/NVR System – Enable remote surveillance.

Additional Features
Temperature Control

Installation Steps:

1. Install Refrigeration or Heating Units – Secure them in the storage area.

2. Connect to Temperature Sensors – Enable automated adjustments.
3. Test Cooling/Heating Cycles – Ensure stable operation.

Receipt Printers

Installation Steps:

1. Mount the Printer Inside the Machine – Ensure accessibility.

2. Connect to the VMC via USB/Serial Port – Set up software integration.
3. Test Print Quality & Paper Feeder – Verify correct receipt generation.

Final Testing & Calibration

Run a full system check for proper function

Ensure all wiring is secure to prevent malfunctions

Update firmware and software to the latest versions.

Perform a mock transaction for complete verification.

B. Generalization

 Why are vending machines commonly found in public places?

 How do vending machines contribute to modern retail and convenience?
 What are the benefits of vending machines?

A vending machine is an automated device that dispenses goods like snacks, beverages, and
tickets upon payment. These machines operate independently and are commonly found in
public places such as offices, malls, and schools.

Vending machine controls refer to the systems that manage its functions, including payment
processing, product dispensing, security, and inventory tracking. Modern vending machines
integrate microcomputers, allowing for efficient operation, remote monitoring, and multiple
payment options like coins, mobile payments, and card transactions.

Types of Vending Machine Controls:

 1. Payment System Controls – Includes coin acceptors, bill validators, card readers, and
mobile payment options.
2. Product Dispensing Controls – Uses motors, conveyor belts, spirals, and sensors to
ensure accurate dispensing.
3. Machine Control Systems – Features vending machine controllers (VMC), Multi-
Drop Bus (MDB) communication, and Digital Exchange (DEX) for data transfer and
monitoring.
4. User Interface Controls – Includes selection buttons, LCD displays, touchscreens, and
keypads for customer interaction.
5. Other Controls – Covers lighting, security cameras, temperature control for
refrigerated products, and receipt printers

Installation of Vending Machine Controls:

Payment Systems: Coin acceptors, bill validators, and card readers must be properly
mounted, connected to the vending machine controller, and tested for accuracy.

Dispensing Systems: Motors and sensors should be installed to ensure products are released
correctly.

Machine Monitoring: Integration of MDB and DEX systems allows real-time tracking of
inventory and performance.

By implementing advanced control systems, vending machines enhance user experience,

improve efficiency, and support various payment methods.

C. Reflection

Real-Life Applications of Vending Machine Controls

Vending machine controls are used in various real-life scenarios to automate transactions,
improve efficiency, and enhance customer convenience. These controls include coin
acceptors, bill validators, card readers, touchscreens, sensors, and IoT connectivity.

1. Retail & Food Service

Automated snack and beverage vending machines allow people to buy products anytime
without needing a cashier.

Smart coffee vending machines dispense customized drinks based on user preferences.
Frozen food and meal vending machines provide quick, self-service meals in offices, airports,
and schools.

2. Public Utilities & Transportation

Ticket vending machines in train and bus stations allow commuters to buy tickets using cash,
cards, or digital payments

Parking meters with vending controls automate parking payments, reducing human errors and
traffic congestion.

3. Water & Hygiene Services

Coin-operated water dispensers allow people to refill drinking water affordably.

Automated laundry machines enable self-service washing and drying with coin or card
payments.

Public restroom turnstiles with coin acceptors regulate access to maintain cleanliness and
generate revenue.

4. Gaming & Entertainment

Arcade game machines use vending controls to accept coins or cards for gameplay.

Gachapon (capsule toy) vending machines dispense collectible toys with each payment.

5. Workplaces & Education

Office snack and coffee vending machines provide employees with quick refreshments.

School supply vending machines offer students access to notebooks, pens, and calculators in
universities.

6. Medical & Safety Equipment

Pharmacy vending machines dispense over-the-counter medicines and hygiene products.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) vending machines provide gloves, masks, and sanitizer
in workplaces.

Vending machine controls help automate everyday transactions, reducing the need for manual
labor, improving convenience, and ensuring 24/7 availability of products and services. As
technology advances, vending machines continue to integrate cashless payments, mobile
apps, and AI-powered inventory management, making them even more useful in modern life.

IV. Assessment

Read each question carefully before selecting your answer. Encircle the letter of the correct
answer. Ensure that your choice is final, as erasures or multiple answers are strictly not
allowed—any question with more than one answer will be marked incorrect.

1. What technology enables vending machines to send real-time sales and inventory data
to a remote system?
A. LCD Display B. DEX (Digital Exchange) C. Bill Validator D. Coin
Acceptor

2. Sensors in a vending machine are primarily used to

A. Display product information B. Monitor machine operation C. Accept
payments D. Dispense product
3. The central control unit of a vending machine is the:
A. Coin acceptor B. Vending motor C. VMC D. LCD display
4. What type of motor is best suited for dispensing large or bulky items?
A. Coil spring motor B. Vending motor C. Conveyor belt motor D. Spiral
motor
5. Which component is responsible for interpreting user input from selection buttons?
A. LCD display B. VMC C. Coin acceptor D. Bill validator
6. What is the purpose of pneumatic components in some vending machines?
A. To accept payments B. To dispense products C. To monitor temperature
D. To display product information
7. Besides proper wiring, what else is critical for successful installation of vending
machine controls?
A. Adequate lighting B. Proper configuration and testing C. Sufficient
ventilation D. Regular maintenance
8. MDB in vending machine technology refers to:
A. Main Data Bus B. Multi Drop Bus C. Machine Data Bus D. Multiple Device
Bus
9. The core function of a vending machine is:
 A. Accepting payment B. Dispensing goods C. Tracking inventory D. Providing
security
10. Contactless payment often utilizes:
A. Bluetooth B. NFC C. Wi-Fi D. Ethernet

IV. References

Anderson, J., & Murphy, S. (2021). Machine learning applications in vending machine
technology. Computational Retail, 12(1), 39-56. [Link]

Aoyama, H., & Takahashi, K. (2021). Smart vending machine system using IoT technology.
International Journal of Automation and Computing, 18(4), 567-582.
[Link]
need_sec_link=1&sec_link_scene=im

Brown, M. J. (2019). Automated vending: Innovations and future trends. Advances in Retail
Technology, 12(3), 89-105. [Link]

Garcia, R. P. (2017). Vending machine security: A comprehensive analysis. Journal of

Cybersecurity and Retail, 5(1), 47-59. [Link]

Jones, M. K., & Taylor, C. W. (2020). Energy-efficient vending machines: Design and
sustainability. Green Technology Journal, 11(3), 145-160. [Link]