Operation Manual of Vending Machine Control System
Certain functions can be executed locally on the vending machine’s control system without requiring backend system involvement. Authorized personnel can access an administrative interface on the machine’s interactive touchscreen by inputting certain pin code via the user interface. The hybrid local-remote functionality model aims to optimize operational flexibility while maintaining appropriate security and connectivity.
Settings on Vending Machines
Enter the Admin Interface
Authorized personnel can gain access to the administration console through the vending machine’s primary user interface. Specifically, entering a predefined activation code such as 9999. After approaching the Pin Verification interface, input the assigned pin code for identity verification.
Upon authenticated entry into the administrative interface, multiple settings can be completed, such as product settings, selection settings, system settings, maintenance and diagnose and WiFi settings.
System Settings
Product Settings
Upon navigating to the product settings sub-section, a complete list of currently stocked items inside the machine is displayed. Relevant data such as product names and pictures are shown for each listing.
The operator is empowered to remove individual products by clicking the “Delete” key on the right side of the lists.
New products can be added through engagement of the “+” key located in the top right corner of the menu, requiring input of a product name. Updates to relevant product pictures should be performed via the backend telemetry system. Click “Add Product” to save.
Selecting a specific listing allows separate modification of product name or removal of product photo.
Note: Any product change will be synchronized to the server. This is a global setting and any change here will affect all the vending machines under the same organization.
Selection Settings
The “Selection Settings” module enables personnel to test dispensing and manage product bundles.
Each “Test” has controls to simulate the dispensing process for validation or troubleshooting.
Products can be reallocated to a specific selection code.
Prices for each selection can be modified easily in this section.
Underperforming selections can be removed from the system by clicking the “X” button on the right side of the listing.
New selections can be created by clicking the “+” button in the top right corner and providing a unique selection code along with choosing the related products to include and setting up the price.
Vending Machine System Settings
Currency The currency symbol and name can be set here for appropriate financial display and reporting.
Decimal point Decimal points can be configured here, with an example shown below as “Amount preview”.
Vending machine name A unique machine name should be manually entered for clear tracking, monitoring and maintenance of each vending machine.
Timezone Multiple time zones are provided to select according to the geographic location where the machine is located.
Pin update Administrative pin code can be modified here securely for access to the machine control system.
API key Enter the valid API key to connect the machine to the backend telemetry system.
APN Enter the APN code here to realize network communication of the machine.
Language Selectable languages accommodate diverse operator teams and customer bases globally.
Slave Settings
Information of peripheral devices / slaves is shown here, such as IP address, online status, and the last time the slave communicated to the host.
WiFi Settings
Input the correct key to connect the machine to the specific local wireless network.
Maintenance and Diagnose
Mark vending machine as refilled
Trays that are out of stock will automatically be disabled to prevent failed vending until inventory is restocked and the “Refill” key is clicked.
Upon “Refill” confirmation, optional remarks can be added.
IP Addresses
“IP Address” can be checked here.
Restart Vending Machine
Click the “Restart” button will restart the vending machine. This enables operators to directly restart the machine without having to contact a technician to remotely operate.
