Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of vending machines, more particularly, this invention relates to an automated, portable, and easy-to-use beverage vending machine for dispensing hot and cold beverages, which elevates the consumer experience through customization and convenience but also offers improved efficiency, security, and operational control and monitoring.

BACKGROUND
[0002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[0003] The consumption of beverages, both hot and cold, forms an integral part of the daily routine for millions of people worldwide. The convenience of obtaining these beverages from vending machines, especially in public places, offices, and educational institutions, has contributed to a surge in the popularity and demand for vending machines. However, as the market for beverage vending machines expands, several challenges and deficiencies associated with the current technology have become apparent. These challenges hinder the efficiency, security, and consumer satisfaction associated with the use of existing vending machines.
[0004] In vending machines, maintaining the quality and safety of products is paramount. There is a growing concern over the counterfeiting and distribution of inferior quality products under the guise of reputable brands. This not only jeopardizes consumer trust but also poses significant health risks. Traditional vending machines lack the mechanisms to ascertain the authenticity and quality of the beverage capsule being used in the machine.
[0005] Capsule-based beverage vending machines generally fall short in providing customization options that cater to the diverse preferences of consumers. Whether it is about adjusting the strength of a beverage or offering a wide range of flavors and dietary options, existing machines offer limited or no customization, thereby failing to meet specific consumer needs.
[0006] In addition, most existing vending machines are exposed to higher risks of theft, vandalism, and unauthorized use. Without such technologies, the owners or operators of these machines are unable to efficiently monitor and manage their assets remotely. Besides, the inability to track real-time consumption data significantly hampers the efficiency of inventory management and resource planning for vending machine operators. This gap in technology leads to either stock shortages, affecting sales and customer satisfaction, or surplus inventory, resulting in waste and increased operational costs.
[0007] Further, the absence of automated alerts or notifications for refilling and inventory management necessitates constant manual monitoring. This is not only labor-intensive but also inefficient, increasing the operational burden on vending machine owners and operators. Moreover, in an era where hygiene and contactless interactions have gained unprecedented importance, existing vending machines lag in adopting technologies that facilitate contactless dispensing. The lack of integration with IoT-based mobile applications for contactless ordering and payment further limits their appeal and utility, especially in a post-pandemic world.
[0008] There is a need to overcome the above drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with the existing beverage vending machines, by providing an automated and easy-to-use beverage vending machine for dispensing hot and cold beverages, which elevates the consumer experience through customization and convenience but also offers improved efficiency, security, and operational control and monitoring.

OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0009] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies are as listed herein below.
[0010] A general object of the present disclosure is to overcome the drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with the existing vending machines.
[0011] An object of the present disclosure is to enhance product safety and authenticity in beverage vending machines, by ensuring the quality and safety of beverage capsules/brewing material being used in the machine and the final beverages being dispensed from the machine, thereby preventing counterfeiting and guaranteeing product authenticity.
[0012] An object of the present disclosure is to provide consumers with a highly customizable beverage experience, allowing adjustments in strength, flavor, and dietary needs through a user-friendly interface as well as mobile devices.
[0013] An object of the present disclosure is to improve the beverage vending machine’s security and remote monitoring by equipping the vending machine with GPS tracking and remote access capabilities, enhancing security against theft and vandalism while enabling efficient asset management.
[0014] An object of the present disclosure is to streamline inventory management through the integration of real-time consumption data tracking in beverage vending machines, thereby reducing waste and optimizing resource planning.
[0015] An object of the present disclosure is to automate refilling and inventory alerts in beverage vending machines by implementing automated alert systems for inventory levels and maintenance needs, reducing the need for constant manual monitoring and improving operational efficiency.
[0016] An object of the present disclosure is to facilitate contactless dispensing by offering contactless beverage dispensing through IoT-based mobile applications, ensuring a hygienic and convenient user experience in line with contemporary health and safety standards.

SUMMARY
[0017] The present disclosure relates to the field of vending machines, more particularly, this invention relates to an automated, portable, and easy-to-use beverage vending machine for dispensing hot and cold beverages, which elevates the consumer experience through customization and convenience but also offers improved efficiency, security, and operational control and monitoring.
[0018] According to an aspect, the present disclosure elaborates upon a beverage vending machine. The machine comprises a housing defining an outer shape of the machine, a water tank adapted to be removably attached to or secured in the housing, where the tank is configured to store water therein, and a heating element and a pump configured within the housing. The pump is fluidically configured with the tank to control and enable the flow of a predefined volume of the stored water through the heating element to allow the heating element to heat the water to a predefined temperature. The machine further comprises a capsule holding tray configured to receive and securely hold one or more capsules storing a brewing material associated with a beverage selected from any of tea, coffee, and soup. The capsule holding tray is adapted to be removably inserted and secured in a brewing space within the housing upon authentication and validation of the one or more capsules. The machine is configured to at least partially break or pierce the one or more capsules being secured on the capsule holding tray and further enable the pump to allow flow of the predefined volume of the water, heated by the heating element at the predefined temperature, through the pierced or broken capsules in the brewing space to enable brewing of the corresponding brewing material in the heated water for a predefined time to create the beverage and further dispense the beverage out of the housing.
[0019] In an aspect, the machine comprises a capsule breaker configured within the housing in the brewing space. The capsule breaker comprises a needle configured with an actuator that enables movement of the needle to break or pierce the one or more capsules being secured on the capsule holding tray.
[0020] In an aspect, the machine comprises a first valve fluidically connected to an outlet of the tank to enable or restrict the flow of the water from the tank towards the heating element and the brewing space or the capsule holding tray, and a second valve configured downstream of the heating element to control direct dispensing of the heated water from the machine.
[0021] In an aspect, the machine comprises a beverage collection tray adapted to be removably positioned below one or more outlets provided on the housing, the beverage collection tray configured to accommodate one or more cups or bottles thereon. The machine is configured to dispense the formed beverage and/or the heated water into the accommodated cup or bottle via the one or more outlets.
[0022] In an aspect, the machine comprises a controller in communication with the heating element, the pump, the actuator of the capsule breaker, the first valve, and the second valve. The controller comprises one or more processors coupled to a memory storing instructions executable by the processors, which causes the controller to actuate the actuator of the capsule breaker to break or pierce the one or more capsules being secured on the capsule holding tray, control temperature of the heating element to adjust the temperature of the water and the beverage at the predefined temperature, control the pump and the first valve to allow the flow of the predefined volume of the stored water through the heating element and further through the one or more broken or pierced capsules, control the brewing time of the brewing material before dispensing of the beverage, and control the pump and the second valve to control direct dispensing of the heated water from the machine.
[0023] In an aspect, the machine comprises one or more sensors that enable the controller to monitor the temperature of the heating element, the water, and/or the beverage within the machine, monitor the level of the water available in the tank, the volume of the water extracted from the tank, and the volume of the beverage or water dispensed by the machine, monitor quantity of the one or more capsules stored in a capsule storage compartment associated with the housing, detect placement and orientation of the one or more capsules placed in the capsule holding tray, detect the placement or removal of the capsule holding tray and the capsule storage compartment within or from the housing.
[0024] In an aspect, the controller is in communication with one or more human-machine interface (HMI) devices associated with one or more registered users. The HMI devices allow the one or more registered users to scan a unique code provided on the one or more capsules to enable the controller to authenticate the corresponding capsules and correspondingly allow the registered users to open and access the capsule storage compartment , the capsule holding tray, and the machine, select any or a combination of the beverage type, the temperature of the water or the beverage, the brewing time of the beverage or beverage preference selected from mild, strong, and very strong, and volume of the water or the beverage to be dispensed, and monitor the level of the water available in the tank and quantity of the one or more capsules available in the machine.
[0025] In an aspect, the controller is configured to generate an alert when the level of the water available in the tank, and the quantity of the one or more capsules available in the machine go below predefined levels or when a technical issue is detected in the machine.
[0026] In an aspect, the machine comprises a GPS device connected to the controller which enables tracking of a location of the machine using the one or more registered mobile devices.
[0027] In an aspect, the machine comprises one or more buttons provided on the housing and operatively connected to the controller. The one or more buttons are configured to allow one or more registered users to select any or a combination of the beverage type, the temperature of the water or the beverage, the beverage preference or the brewing time of the beverage, and volume of the water or the beverage to be dispensed.
[0028] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent features.
[0029] Within the scope of this application, it is expressly envisaged that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and particularly the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. Features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments, unless such features are incompatible

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0030] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention and, together with the description,
[0031] FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary block diagram depicting functional modules of the proposed beverage vending machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGs. 1B to 1D illustrate exemplary views of the proposed beverage vending machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0032] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary view of the water tank associated with the proposed machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0033] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary view of the heating element associated with the proposed machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0034] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary view of the pump associated with the proposed machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0035] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary view of the capsule holding tray associated with the proposed machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0036] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary view of the capsule breaker or piercer associated with the proposed machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0037] FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary view of the first valve associated with the proposed machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0038] FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary view of the second valve associated with the proposed machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0039] FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary flow chart depicting the operation of the proposed machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0040] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[0041] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present invention. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without some of these specific details.
[0042] Embodiments of the present disclosure elaborate upon an automated, portable, and easy-to-use beverage vending machine for dispensing hot and cold beverages.
[0043] The present disclosure overcomes the drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with the existing vending machine, by providing an automated and easy-to-use beverage vending machine for dispensing hot and cold beverages, which elevates the consumer experience through customization and convenience but also offers improved efficiency, security, and operational control and monitoring.
[0044] Referring to FIGS 1A to 1D, a hot and cold beverage vending machine 100 is disclosed. The machine 100 may include a housing 102 (also referred to as casing 102, herein) defining the shape of the machine 100. The housing 102 may be adapted to securely accommodate various components associated with the machine 100 therein and/or thereon. The housing 102 may have a stable bottom or an overall stable body, which may allow the machine 100 to be positioned on a rigid surface or mounted on a wall in a stable manner. In an embodiment, the housing 102 may be made of a water-proof or rust-proof durable material, to prevent the machine 100 and associated components from damage from external factors like accidental impacts, water spills, or exposure to moisture. However, the housing 102 may also be made of any other durable material which may be coated with a layer of water-proof or rust-proof material. An outer structure of the housing 102 may be designed to be user-friendly, convenient to use, compact, portable, and aesthetically pleasing.
[0045] The machine 100 may further include a water tank 104 of a predefined capacity that may be adapted to be removably attached to or secured in the housing 102. However, the tank 104 may also be an integral part of the machine 100 being formed in the same housing 102. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the water tank 104 may be configured to receive water through an inlet provided on of the sides 104-1 of the tank 104 and further store the water therein, which may be sufficient for multiple brewing and beverage dispensing cycles. The water tank 104 may include a mounting fixture on one of the sides 104-3 and the housing 102 may include another mounting fixture (not shown) that may engage and lock with the mounting fixture of the tank 104, allowing the water tank 104 to be easily attached to and removed from the housing 102. Further, the tank 104 may have a transparent body 104-2 and/or may include water level indicators to indicate the level of water available in the tank 104. The removable feature of the water tank 104 may allow easy cleaning of the tank 104 and also facilitate in maintenance of the machine 100
[0046] In an embodiment, the machine 100 may include a heating element 106 as shown in FIG. 3 and a pump 108 as shown in FIG. 4 that may be configured within the housing 102. The pump 108 may be fluidically configured with the tank 104 (not shown) to control and enable the flow of a predefined volume of the water (from the tank 104) through the heating element 106, which may allow the heating element 106 to heat the water to a predefined temperature while flowing through the heating element 106. An inlet 108-1 of the pump 108 may be adapted to be connected to the outlet of the water tank 104. Further, the heating element 106 and the brewing space may be provided downstream of an outlet 108-2 of the pump 108 within the housing 102. The pump 108 may be driven by a motor 108-3, which may cause the pump 108 to pump 108 water from the water tank 104 through the heating element 106 and further into the brewing space. In an embodiment, the heating element 106 may further include a thermostat that may be configured to monitor the temperature of the heating element 106 or the water, and automatically adjust the heating capacity of the heating element 106 to maintain the temperature of the heating element 106 or water at the predefined temperature. Further, the thermostat may switch OFF the heating element 106 when the temperature of the heating element 106 exceeds a safe level.
[0047] Further, the machine 100 may include a capsule holding tray 110 as shown in FIG. 5 that may be configured to receive and securely hold one or more capsules (collectively referred to as capsules or individually referred to as capsules, herein) in an interior cavity of the capsule holding tray 110. These capsules may store a brewing material associated with a beverage selected from any of tea, coffee, and soup, but not limited to the like. In addition, the machine 100 may include a capsule storage compartment (not shown) that may store these capsules. The compartment may have a movable door enclosing the interior of the capsule storage compartment. The machine 100 may allow users to open the door to collect the capsule(s) from the capsule storage compartment and place the capsule(s) in the interior cavity of the capsule holding tray 110 for brewing upon authentication and validation of the users accessing the machine 100. The capsule holding tray 110 may be adapted to be removably inserted within the housing 102 and secured in the brewing space within the housing 102 via one of the open sides of the housing 102, such that a section 110-1 having the interior cavity 110-2 remains within the housing 102 and another section 110-3 remains visible and accessible from the outside. In an embodiment, the machine 100 may allow users to place the capsule holding tray 110 within the machine 100 only upon the authentication and validation of the capsule(s) and the users. The detailed authentication operation has been described later in further paragraphs.
[0048] The capsule holding tray 110 may be designed to fit the specific size and shape of the capsules, ensuring that it stays securely in place during the brewing process. The capsule holding tray 110 may be located inside the machine 100 and may be made of materials plastic materials. The capsule holding tray 110 may have a series of perforations or puncture points above the interior cavity that may allow hot water from the heating element 106 end to enter the tray and flow through the capsule and brew the brewing material present in the capsule(s).
[0049] In addition, the machine 100 may include a capsule breaker 112 as shown in FIG. 6 that may be configured in the brewing space of the housing 102, such that the interior cavity of the capsule holding tray 110 (upon insertion of the tray in the housing 102) remains underneath or adjacent to the capsule breaker 112 in the brewing space. In an embodiment, the capsule breaker 112 may include a needle configured with an actuator that may enable movement of the needle to break or pierce the capsule(s) being secured on the tray. Once the capsule(s) is pierced, the pump 108 may create pressure that may force hot water through the capsule(s) and extract the flavor and aroma from the brewing material. The extracted beverage may then flow through the machine 100 and into a cup or container. Further, in an embodiment, the brewing space may include a stirrer powered by another motor which may be configured to stir the mixture of the brewing material and hot water in the brewing space during the brewing process, which may then be dispensed through the outlets/dispenser 124.
[0050] In an embodiment, the machine 100 may include a first solenoid valve 114-1 as shown in FIG. 7 that may be fluidically connected to an outlet of the tank 104 to enable or restrict the flow of the water from the tank 104 towards the heating element 106 and the brewing space or the capsule tray. In addition, in an embodiment, the machine 100 may include a second solenoid valve 114-2 as shown in FIG. 7 that may be configured downstream of the heating element 106 to control the direct dispensing of the hot (or normal) water from the machine 100 without going through the brewing process.
[0051] In an embodiment, the machine 100 may actuate the capsule breaker 112 to at least partially break or pierce the capsule(s) being secured on the tray 110. The machine 100 may further actuate the heating element 106 and the pump 108 to allow the flow of the predefined volume of the water, heated by the heating element 106 at a predefined temperature (say 90 to 100 degree Celsius), through the pierced or broken capsule(s) in the brewing space to enable brewing of the corresponding brewing material in the heated water for a predefined time to create the beverage. Later, the machine 100 may dispense the beverage out of the housing 102 via one or more outlets 126 (also referred to as dispensers 126, herein) as shown in FIGS 1B to 1D.
[0052] In addition, in some embodiments (not shown), the machine 100 may also include a refrigeration device configured downstream of the pump. The pump 108 can enable supply a predefined volume of water from the water tank 104 towards the brewing space, while allowing the water to flow through the refrigeration device to cool the water and further supply the cool water towards the brewing space or directly towards outlet or dispenser to supply cold beverage or cold water to users.
[0053] The machine 100 may additionally include a beverage collection tray 124 adapted to be removably positioned below the outlets/dispensers 126 provided on the housing 102, such that the beverage collection tray 124 remains accessible to users from outside. The beverage collection tray 124 may be configured to accommodate cups or bottles thereon, where the machine 100 may dispense the formed beverage and/or the heated water into the accommodated cup or bottle via the outlets. The beverage collection tray 124 may be a drip tray for easy cleaning.
[0054] In an embodiment, the machine 100 may include a controller 118 in communication with the heating element 106, the pump 108, the actuator of the capsule breaker 112, the first valve 114-1, and the second valve 114-2. The controller 118 may include one or more processors 118-1 coupled to a memory 118-2 storing instructions executable by the processors 118-1, which causes the controller 118 to perform one or more designated operations. In an embodiment, once the capsule holding tray 110 is inserted within the machine 100 after authentication of the user and the capsule(s) and upon selection of a beverage preference/type and a brewing time by the user, the controller 118 may actuate the actuator of the capsule breaker 112 to break or pierce the capsules being secured on the tray 110, and control temperature of the heating element 106 to adjust the temperature of the water and the beverage at the predefined temperature while controlling the pump 108 and the first valve 114-1 to allow the flow of the predefined volume of the stored water through the heating element 106 and further through the broken or pierced capsules. The controller 118 may also control the brewing time of the brewing material before dispensing the beverage by allowing the brewing material to brew for that duration and extract the flavor and aroma from the brewing material. In addition, in another embodiment, when the user selects hot water or cold water or normal water, the controller 118 may also control the pump 108 and the second valve 114-2 to control the direct dispensing of the hot/cold/normal water from the machine 100.
[0055] In an embodiment, the machine 100 may include one or more sensors 116 installed within the machine 100, which may be in communication with the controller 118. The sensors 116 may include a temperature sensor that may enable the controller 118 to monitor the temperature of the heating element 106, the water, and/or the beverage within the machine 100. Further, the sensors 116 may include a level sensor and/or a flow sensor that may enable the controller 118 to monitor the level of the water available in the tank 104, the volume of the water extracted from the tank 104, and the volume of the beverage or water dispensed by the machine 100. In addition, the sensors 116 may include a position sensor that may enable the controller 118 to monitor the quantity of the capsules stored in the capsule storage compartment associated with the housing 102, detect the placement and orientation of the capsules placed in the capsule holding tray 110, detect the placement or removal of the capsule holding tray 110 and the capsule storage compartment within or from the housing 102.
[0056] Further, in an embodiment, the controller 118 may be in communication with one or more human-machine interface (HMI) devices (not shown) associated with the registered users. In an embodiment, the HMI devices may be a user-interface that may include a display, buttons 120, and/or a camera/scanner being provided on the housing 102 of the machine 100. Further, the HMI devices may also be mobile devices such as a mobile phone, a laptop, a tablet, or other hand-held smart devices associated with the users. The machine 100 may include a communication module such as a transceiver, a Bluetooth module, a WiFi module, a GSM module, and the like, which may enable the establishment of a secured communication channel between the machine 100 and the HMI devices.
[0057] In an embodiment, the HMI device may authenticate the users (customers, technicians, and operators) using an OTP-based authentication process, a PIN-based authentication process, and/or a biometric-based authentication process, when the user tries to access the machine 100. Further, in some embodiments, the machine 100 may also allow new or existing users (customers) to access the device, without any authentication, upon a successful payment made by the users at the machine 100. The machine 100 may be configured with a payment module that may allow users (customers) to make payments for accessing and using the machine 100.
[0058] Once the user (customer) is authenticated and/or the payment is made, the HMI device may allow the users to scan, using the camera or scanner, a unique code (such as a QR code or bar code) provided on the capsules or on the capsule storage compartment. The controller 118 may then analyze the scanned unique code to authenticate the corresponding capsules and further allow the authenticated users to open and access the capsule storage compartment, the capsule holding tray 110, and the machine 100. This authorization may allow the users to collect the capsules from the capsule storage compartment and place the capsules on the capsule holding tray 110, and further insert the capsule holding tray 110 within the brewing space of the machine 100. This may help prevent the use of unauthorized capsules within the machine 100.
[0059] The HMI devices may further allow the users to select any or a combination of the beverage type, temperature of the water or the beverage, the brewing time of the beverage or beverage preference selected from mild, strong, and very strong, and volume of the water or the beverage to be dispensed. Accordingly, the machine 100/controller 118 may actuate the heating element 106, the pump 108, and the valve(s) to adjust the temperature of the water or the beverage, the brewing time of the beverage or beverage preference, and further dispense the selected beverage.
[0060] Further, the HMI device may allow registered users (such as technicians or operators) to monitor the level of the water available in the tank 104 and the quantity of the capsules available in the machine 100. In an embodiment, the controller 118 may be configured to generate an alert when the level of the water available in the tank 104, and the quantity of the capsules available in the machine 100 goes below predefined levels. In addition, the controller 118 may be configured to generate and transmit an alert message to the HMI devices of the registered users (technicians or operators) when a technical issue is detected in the machine 100.
[0061] In an embodiment, the machine 100 may include a GPS device 122 connected to the controller 118 which may enable users (technicians or operators) to track the location of the machine 100 using the HMI devices. This may help prevent unauthorized movement of the machine 100 from its designated installed locations. This may also help users to track and locate the machine 100 in the event of theft.
[0062] Further, the machine 100 may include one or more buttons 120 provided on the housing 102 and operatively connected to the controller 118. The buttons 120 may allow the users to select any or a combination of the temperature of the water or the beverage, the beverage preference or type, the brewing time of the beverage, and the volume of the water or the beverage to be dispensed. Additionally, the machine 100 may include LED indicators or speakers provided on the housing 102 of the machine 100, to indicate the brewing status going on within the machine 100.
[0063] FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary flow chart depicting the operation of the proposed machine. In an implementation, the users (customers) may select a beverage type such as tea, coffee, and soup using a beverage selection button, and then select the amount (volume) of the selected beverage by adjusting the default brewing time to suit personal taste using a time-set button/regulator. The users can then place the cup or bottle under the specific outlet for the selected beverage and press and hold a dispensing button (shown by the cup indicator in FIG. 1C) to dispense the selected beverage. In an exemplary embodiment, a first button may be for a small cup volume setting 60-100ml with a capsule breaking time of 10 sec, dispensing time of min 10-16 sec, and brewing preference/time of 10-50 sec. Further, a second button may be for a large cup volume setting 80-150 with a capsule break time of 10 sec, dispensing time of min 10-25 sec, and brewing preference/time of 10-100 sed. Furthermore, a third button may be for a hot water volume setting of 170-200 ml with a default dispensing time of 10 sec.
[0064] In an embodiment, the machine 100 may include a power plug that may electrically connect the machine 100 to an external electrical outlet or source, providing the power necessary for the machine 100 to operate. The plug may be located on the power cord of the machine 100 and may be designed to fit into a standard electrical outlet. When the plug is inserted into the standard electrical outlet, the machine 100 may turn ON and allow electricity to flow into the components of the machine 100. In addition, in some embodiments, the machine 100 may include a dedicated in-built rechargeable battery to provide power to the components of the machine 100. This battery may be further recharged by connecting the plug to the external electrical outlet.
[0065] Thus, this invention overcomes the drawbacks and limitations associated with existing beverage vending machines, by providing an automated and easy-to-use beverage vending machine for dispensing hot and cold beverages, which elevates the consumer experience through customization and convenience but also offers improved efficiency, security, and operational control and monitoring.
[0066] It is to be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that while various embodiments of the present disclosure elaborate upon the implementation of this invention for brewing tea, coffee, and soup, however, the machine has wider applications where the machine may be used for brewing and dispensing another edible medicinal, or non-medicinal materials as well, and all such embodiments are well within the scope of the present disclosure, without any limitations.
[0067] If the specification states a component or feature “may”, “can”, “could”, or “might” be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.
[0068] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0069] Moreover, in interpreting the specification, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Where the specification claims refer to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C ….and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc.
[0070] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the invention is determined by the claims that follow. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are comprised to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION
[0071] The present invention enhances product safety and authenticity in beverage vending machines, by ensuring the quality and safety of beverage capsules/brewing material being used in the machine and the final beverages being dispensed from the machine, thereby preventing counterfeiting and guaranteeing product authenticity.
[0072] The present invention provides consumers with a highly customizable beverage experience, allowing adjustments in strength, flavor, and dietary needs through a user-friendly interface as well as mobile devices.
[0073] The present invention improves the beverage vending machine’s security and remote monitoring by equipping the vending machine with GPS tracking and remote access capabilities, enhancing security against theft and vandalism while enabling efficient asset management.
[0074] The present invention streamlines inventory management through the integration of real-time consumption data tracking in beverage vending machines, thereby reducing waste and optimizing resource planning.
[0075] The present invention automates refilling and inventory alerts in beverage vending machines by implementing automated alert systems for inventory levels and maintenance needs, reducing the need for constant manual monitoring and improving operational efficiency.
[0076] The present invention facilitates contactless dispensing by offering contactless beverage dispensing through IoT-based mobile applications, ensuring a hygienic and convenient user experience in line with contemporary health and safety standards.

, Claims:We Claim:

1. A beverage vending machine (100) comprising:
a housing (102) defining a shape of the machine (100);
a water tank (104) adapted to be removably attached to or secured in the housing (102), the tank (104) configured to store water therein;
a heating element (106) and a pump (108) configured within the housing (102), wherein the pump (108) is fluidically configured with the tank (104) to control and enable flow of a predefined volume of the stored water through the heating element (106) to allow the heating element (106) to heat the water to a predefined temperature; and
a capsule holding tray (110) configured to receive and securely hold one or more capsules storing a brewing material associated with a beverage selected from any of tea, coffee, and soup,
characterized in that the capsule holding tray (110) is adapted to be removably inserted and secured in a brewing space within the housing (102) upon authentication and validation of the one or more capsules,
wherein the machine (100) is configured to at least partially break or pierce the one or more capsules being secured on the capsule holding tray (110) and further enable the pump (108) to allow flow of the predefined volume of the water, heated by the heating element (106) at the predefined temperature, through the pierced or broken capsules in the brewing space to enable brewing of the corresponding brewing material in the heated water for a predefined time to create the beverage and further dispense the beverage out of the housing (102).

2. The machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the machine (100) comprises a capsule breaker (112) configured within the housing (102) in the brewing space, wherein the capsule breaker (112) comprises a needle configured with an actuator that enables movement of the needle to break or pierce the one or more capsules being secured on the capsule holding tray (110).

3. The machine (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the machine (100) comprises:
a first valve (114-1) fluidically connected to an outlet of the tank (104) to enable or restrict the flow of the water from the tank (104) towards the heating element (106) and the brewing space or the capsule holding tray (110); and
a second valve (114-2) configured downstream of the heating element (106) to control the direct dispensing of the heated water from the machine (100).

4. The machine (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the machine (100) comprises a beverage collection tray (124) adapted to be removably positioned below one or more outlets provided on the housing (102), the beverage collection tray (124) configured to accommodate one or more cups or bottles thereon, wherein the machine (100) is configured to dispense the formed beverage and/or the heated water into the accommodated cup or bottle via the one or more outlets.

5. The machine (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the machine (100) comprises a controller (118) in communication with the heating element (106), the pump (108), the actuator of the capsule breaker (112), the first vale, and the second valve (114-2), wherein the controller (118) comprises one or more processors ((118)-1) coupled to a memory ((118)-2) storing instructions executable by the processors ((118)-1), which causes the controller (118) to:
actuate the actuator of the capsule breaker (112) to break or pierce the one or more capsules being secured on the capsule holding tray (110);
control the temperature of the heating element (106) to adjust the temperature of the water and the beverage at the predefined temperature;
control the pump (108) and the first valve (114-1) to allow the flow of the predefined volume of the stored water through the heating element (106) and further through the one or more broken or pierced capsules;
control the brewing time of the brewing material before dispensing of the beverage; and
control the pump (108) and the second valve (114-2) to control the direct dispensing of the heated water from the machine (100).

6. The machine (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the machine (100) comprises one or more sensors 116 that enable the controller (118) to:
monitor the temperature of the heating element (106), the water, and/or the beverage within the machine (100);
monitor the level of the water available in the tank (104), the volume of the water extracted from the tank (104), and the volume of the beverage or water dispensed by the machine (100);
monitor quantity of the one or more capsules stored in a capsule storage compartment associated with the housing (102);
detect placement and orientation of the one or more capsules placed in the capsule holding tray (110);
detect the placement or removal of the capsule holding tray (110) and the capsule storage compartment within or from the housing (102).

7. The machine (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the controller (118) is in communication with one or more human-machine (100) interface (HMI) devices associated with one or more registered users, wherein the HMI devices allow the one or more registered users to:
scan a unique code provided on the one or more capsules to enable the controller (118) to authenticate the corresponding capsules and correspondingly allow the registered users to open and access the capsule storage compartment , the capsule holding tray (110), and the machine (100);
select any or a combination of the beverage type, the temperature of the water or the beverage, the brewing time of the beverage or beverage preference selected from mild, strong, and very strong, and the volume of the water or the beverage to be dispensed; and
monitor the level of the water available in the tank (104) and quantity of the one or more capsules available in the machine (100).

8. The machine (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the controller (118) is configured to generate an alert when the level of the water available in the tank (104), and the quantity of the one or more capsules available in the machine (100) goes below predefined levels or when a technical issue is detected in the machine (100).
9. The machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the machine (100) comprises a GPS device 122 connected to the controller (118) which enables tracking of a location of the machine (100) using the one or more registered mobile devices.

10. The machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the machine (100) comprises one or more buttons 120 provided on the housing (102) and operatively connected to the controller (118), wherein the one or more buttons 120 are configured to allow one or more registered users to select any or a combination of the beverage type, the temperature of the water or the beverage, the beverage preference or the brewing time of the beverage, and volume of the water or the beverage to be dispensed.