Description:DESCRIPTION:
Field of the invention:
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to the technical field of vending machines that dispenses hygiene products and, in specific relates to an IoT-based vending device that dispense feminine hygiene sanitary pads in response to an activation of a sensor with a coin operated system.
Background of the invention:
[0002] Vending machines exist in a variety of countries and locations, and automatic vending machines that offer less common products than traditional machines are being developed. A coin dispensary is an automatic machine that provides consumers with things such as sanitary napkins, snacks, beverages, cigarettes, toys, and tickets after money or a coin or a note or special cards are inserted into the machine. Social status with health in equalities plays important role to serve the country. According to World Health Organization (WHO), poor health outcomes are caused by low socioeconomic status. Therefore, the solution on this problem is necessary. In all over the world out of total health issue women contribute most of the percent. Thus, women’s hygiene is most important and needs to be taken care of. Most of the health problems of women are caused by the menstrual cycle. Approximately 23 percent of females drop out of school due to a lack of facilities during menstruation.

[0003] Women are still hesitant to buy napkins from medical shops and other outlets. Thus, appropriate understanding and availability of napkins is critical. Installing automatic sanitary napkin vending machines in schools, colleges, and public spaces, as well as in workplaces and educational institutions, would assist them in receiving napkins as needed. These arguments highlight the critical importance of our effort in educating and assisting women in this era to meet their demands. The sanitary napkin vending machine makes women's lives easier and stress-free, especially on those days.

[0004] IoT (Internet of Things)-based sanitary napkin vending devices can provide a great deal of convenience and accessibility to women who require menstrual supplies. These machines may connect to the internet and collect data on inventory levels, usage habits, and even client preferences. This information can then be used to optimize the supply chain and enhance the consumer experience.

[0005] Conventionally, a dispenser for web paper product is disclosed. A dispenser for web paper product. A powered dispenser for dispensing a perforated web of sheet material includes an internal well, which holds a dispensed segment of the paper web for separation by a user. The internal well include a concave portion that is attached to an elongated upwardly inclined portion that extends to a discharge opening. A separating member in the internal well is provided that the dispensed segment can be pulled against it to separate the segment at the tear lines with a substantially reduced pull force. The separating member may have a symmetrical configuration and an asymmetrical configuration. The separating member is pivotally configured so as to rotate towards or away the discharge opening for actuating the feed mechanism when a force is applied to a portion of a dispensed segment. However, the dispenser might requires number of components to operate the dispenser, and requires high maintenance.

[0006] In existing technology, a smart product dispenser is known. The smart product dispenser comprises a memory, a cloud server, an optical encoder, a motor drive, a motor, an input module/payment module, an output unit, a power source, one or more user devices, one or more product slots, a refill unit embedded in a microcontroller with enabled computer instructions, one or more sensors, an alert unit, and one or more communication authorization modules. The smart product dispenser with health monitoring facility of the machine configured to send details to the person concerned of manufacturing the napkin to make necessary amount of napkin production. However, the smart product dispenser might not provide a real-time communication with a user for monitoring napkins.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for an IoT-based device that dispense feminine hygiene sanitary pads in response to an activation of a sensor with a coin operated system. There is also a need for an IoT-based device that automatically detect the stocks, reducing the need for manual verification and ensures timely refilling. There is also a need for an IoT-based device that allow for remote management of the napkin vending device through the Blynk platform, reducing the need for physical visits to check stock or address malfunctions, increasing efficiency and potentially lower overall maintenance costs. Further, there is also a need for an IoT-based device that provides valuable insights into activities, including online and offline periods, and instances of stock unavailability through a Blynk web dashboard.
Objectives of the invention:
[0008] The primary objective of the invention is to provide an IoT-based device that dispenses feminine hygiene sanitary pads in response to an activation of a sensor with a coin operated system.

[0009] Another objective of the invention is to provide an IoT-based device that enables a user to discreet and convenient purchases of sanitary napkins, improving anxieties associated with traditional purchases in public places.

[0010] The other objective of the invention is to provide an IoT-based device that provides real-time information through Blynk application, preventing user obstruction from encountering empty dispensers.

[0011] The other objective of the invention is to provide an IoT-based device that allows for remote management of the napkin vending machine through the Blynk platform, reducing the need for physical visits to check stock or address malfunctions, increasing efficiency and potentially lower overall maintenance costs.

[0012] The other objective of the invention is to provide an IoT-based device that allows for easy replication and deployment in various locations with minimal modifications.

[0013] Yet another objective of the invention is to provide an IoT-based device that utilizes a sophisticated coin recognition sensor to identify counterfeit coins based on weight, size, and even metallic composition.

[0014] Further objective of the invention is to provide an IoT-based device that could potentially ensure data transmission between the napkin vending machine and a cloud platform (Blynk) to prevent unauthorized access or manipulation of inventory data.
Summary of the invention:
[0015] The present disclosure proposes an IoT-based sanitary napkin vending device with real-time inventory tracking and method thereof. The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the claimed subject matter. This summary is not an extensive overview. It is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope of the claimed subject matter. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0016] In order to overcome the above deficiencies of the prior art, the present disclosure is to solve the technical problem to provide an IoT-based vending device that dispense feminine hygiene sanitary pads in response to an activation of a sensor with a coin operated system.

[0017] According to an aspect, the invention provides an IoT-based napkin vending device. The IoT-based napkin vending device comprises a housing having an opening that allows a user to receive at least one sanitary napkin. In one embodiment, the housing comprises a coin acceptor, a storage unit, a servo motor, and a controller. In one embodiment, the coin acceptor is operationally exposed from the housing. The coin acceptor is configured to detect the coin that is valid or invalid upon allowing the user to insert the coin and transmit the validated data.

[0018] In one embodiment, the storage unit is positioned within the housing. The storage unit is configured to store one or more sanitary napkins. In one embodiment, the storage unit having a sensing unit that is configured to detect the remaining napkins in the storage unit, and transmitting the detected data to the controller. In one embodiment, the servo motor is positioned within the housing. The servo motor is configured to operate the storage unit for dispensing at least one sanitary napkin upon receiving a valid coin insertion.

[0019] In one embodiment, the controller having a processor and a memory for storing one or more instructions executable by the user. The controller is configured to detect the coin denomination and authenticity of the inserted coins in the coin acceptor. The controller is configured to activate the servo motor to dispense the at least one sanitary napkin through the opening upon receiving a valid coin insertion. The controller is configured to transmit detected data to Blynk processes for updating a web dashboard with real-time inventory information. In one embodiment, the detected data includes coin insertion, napkin dispensing events, and remaining napkin. In one embodiment, the controller is configured to alert the user when the napkin stock falls below a predefined threshold through a mobile application, web dashboard, and email.

[0020] In one embodiment, the IoT-based device is in communicates with a computing device through a network. The network is a Blynk cloud platform. In one embodiment, the web dashboard for visualizing operational data, including online and offline periods, stock availability, and timestamps of the IoT-based device activity.

[0021] In one embodiment, the IoT-based device comprises a display unit for providing information on the napkin stock availability. In one embodiment, the IoT-based device comprises a voltage regulator, and a power switch. The voltage regulator is positioned within the housing. The voltage regulator is configured to maintain stable voltage for consistent operation. The power switch is positioned on the housing. The power switch is configured to allow the user to power ON and OFF of the IoT-based napkin vending device.

[0022] According to another aspect of the invention provides a method for operating an IoT-based napkin vending device. At one step, the coin acceptor receive at least one coin through the IoT-based napkin vending device. At another step, the coin acceptor detect the coin that is valid or invalid upon allowing the user to insert the coin and transmit the validated data. At another step, the storage unit detect the remaining napkins using an inventory tracking system upon receiving the validated data.

[0023] At another step, the servo motor activates to operate the storage unit for dispensing at least one sanitary napkin from the opening. At another step, transmits data regarding the coin insertion, napkin dispensing, and inventory level to the user through the network for updating a web dashboard with real-time inventory information. Further, at another step, generates a low stock notification on a mobile application, web dashboard, and email when the inventory level falls below the predefined threshold.

[0024] Further, objects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from a study of the following portion of the specification, the claims, and the attached drawings.
Detailed description of drawings:
[0025] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate an embodiment of the invention, and, together with the description, explain the principles of the invention.

[0026] FIG. 1A illustrates a schematic view of an IoT-based vending device with a computing device, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0027] FIGs. 1B-1C illustrate detailed views of the IoT-based vending device, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0028] FIG. 1D illustrates a schematic view of a controller communicates with a display unit of the IoT-based vending device, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0029] FIG. 2A illustrates a pictorial representation of a blynk web dashboard, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0030] FIG. 2B illustrates a pictorial representation of the blynk application mobile dashboard, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0031] FIG. 2C illustrates a pictorial representation of the blynk notification when there is no stock in a storage unit, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0032] FIG. 2D illustrates a pictorial representation of an email from the blynk web, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0033] FIGs. 2E-2F illustrate pictorial representations of a timeline process of the blynk web, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0034] FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method for operating the IoT-based vending device, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
Detailed invention disclosure:
[0035] Various embodiments of the present invention will be described in reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same or similar reference numerals are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts or steps.

[0036] The present disclosure has been made with a view towards solving the problem with the prior art described above, and it is an object of the present invention to provide an IoT-based vending device 100 that dispenses feminine hygiene sanitary pads in response to an activation of a sensor with a coin operated system.

[0037] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 1A refers to a schematic view of an IoT-based vending device 100 with a computing device 122. According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIGs. 1B-1C refer to detailed views of the IoT-based vending device 100. In one embodiment herein, the IoT-based napkin vending device 100 comprises a housing 102 having an opening 104 that allows a user to receive at least one sanitary napkin. In one embodiment, the housing 102 comprises a coin acceptor 106, a storage unit 108, a servo motor 110, and a controller 112.

[0038] In one embodiment, the coin acceptor 106 is operationally exposed from the housing 102. The coin acceptor 106 is configured to detect the coin that is valid or invalid upon allowing the user to insert the coin and transmit the validated data. If the coin acceptor 106 detects an invalid coin that might return to an initial position.

[0039] In one embodiment, the storage unit 108 is positioned within the housing 102. The storage unit 102 is configured to store one or more sanitary napkins. In one embodiment, the storage unit 108 having a sensing unit that is configured to detect the remaining napkins in the storage unit 108, and transmit the detected data to the controller 112. In one embodiment, the servo motor 110 is positioned within the housing 102. The servo motor 110 is configured to operate the storage unit 108 for dispensing at least one sanitary napkin upon receiving the valid coin insertion from the coin acceptor 106.

[0040] In one embodiment, the controller 112 having a processor and a memory for storing one or more instructions executable by the user. The controller 112 is configured to detect the coin denomination and authenticity of the inserted coins in the coin acceptor 106. The controller 112 is configured to activate the servo motor 110 to dispense the at least one sanitary napkin through the opening upon receiving the valid coin insertion. The controller 112 is configured to transmit detected data to Blynk processes for updating a web dashboard with real-time inventory information. In one embodiment, the detected data includes coin insertion, napkin dispensing events, and remaining napkins. In one embodiment, the controller 112 is configured to alert the user when the napkin stock falls below a predefined threshold through a mobile application, web dashboard, and email.

[0041] In one embodiment, the IoT-based device 100 is in communicates with a computing device 122 through a network 120. The network 120 is a Blynk cloud platform. In one embodiment, the web dashboard is used for visualizing operational data, including online and offline periods, stock availability, and timestamps of the IoT-based device activity. In one embodiment herein, the computer device 122 can be, but is not limited to, a personal computer, a laptop, a mobile, and an interface.

[0042] In one embodiment, the IoT-based device 100 comprises a display unit 114 for providing information on the napkin stock availability. In one embodiment, the IoT-based device 100 comprises a voltage regulator 118, and a power switch 116. The voltage regulator 118 is positioned within the housing 102. The voltage regulator 118 is configured to maintain stable voltage for consistent operation. The power switch 116 is positioned on the housing 102. The power switch 116 is configured to allow the user to power ON and OFF the IoT-based napkin vending device 100.

[0043] Table. 1:
Specifications
Voltage 12V
Dimensions 26 X 12 X 31 mm (LXBXH)
Capacity 12
Weight 1 kg
Display 16 X 2 LCD
Payment Mode 5 Rupee coin
Dispensing Rate One at a time

[0044] In one embodiment herein, the table. 1 depicts the specification of the IoT-based device 100. The IoT-based device 100 comprises a power source that is configured to provide an electrical supply to the IoT-based device 100 upon the user activating the power switch 116 of the IoT-based device 100. The power source is configured to provide 12 volts. In one embodiment herein, the storage unit 108 having a capacity of 12 sanitary napkins is equipped. In another embodiment herein, the display unit 114 having a dimension of 16 X 2. The coin acceptor 106 is configured to recognize only 5 rupee coins. The IoT-based device 100 is configured to dispense the at least one napkin from the opening 104.

[0045] In one example embodiment herein, the user manually activates the IoT-based vending device 100 through the power switch 116. The user unlocks a locking unit 124 that is positioned on the external surface of the housing 102. The locking unit 124 is configured to secure the IoT-based vending device 100 from thieves, and other users. The locking unit 124 is configured to allow the user to install one or more sanitary napkins in the storage unit 108. The user places the IoT-based vending device 100 at schools, hospitals, colleges, offices, and thereof. The IoT-based vending device 100 is configured to dispense the at least one napkin upon inserting the coin in the coin acceptor 106 of the IoT-based vending device 100.

[0046] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 1D refers to a schematic view of the controller 112 communicating with the display unit 114 of the IoT-based vending device 100. In one embodiment herein, the controller 112, display unit 114, and the servo motor 110 are components potentially used in the IoT-based vending device 100. The circuit diagram of the IoT-based vending device 100. The coin acceptor 106 is configured to detect the denomination and authenticity of inserted coins. The storage unit 108 holds the one or more sanitary napkins. The computing device 122 is configured to communicate with the IoT-based vending device 100 through the blynk application. In one embodiment herein, the IoT-based vending device 100 involves the inventory tracking system that monitors the number of remaining napkins in the storage unit 108. The voltage regulator 118 ensures a consistent and stable voltage supply for reliable operation.

[0047] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 2A refers to a pictorial representation 202 of a blynk web dashboard. In one embodiment herein, the blynk web dashboard for the IoT-based vending device 100, the layout of the dashboard could be divided into sections or widgets that display various information. The inventory status might represent the current stock of sanitary napkins, possibly using a numerical value or a visual indicator (e.g., progress bar). The coin acceptor 106 is configured to communicate with the controller 112 to display information related to the coin acceptor, potentially indicating if it's operational or encountering any issues.

[0048] The section might represent the IoT-based vending device 100 overall status, such as "Online" or "Offline" to indicate connectivity. The IoT-based vending device 100 might have a dedicated area for displaying any active alerts, such as low stock notifications. If the Blynk app is configured to store historical data, the dashboard might offer functionalities to view past events, like coin insertions, dispensing events, or timestamps of online/offline periods.

[0049] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 2B refers to a pictorial representation 204 of the blynk application mobile dashboard. In one embodiment herein, the blynk mobile dashboard interface of the Blynk Cloud. Blynk is versatile, functioning seamlessly not only on systems or laptops but also on mobile devices, enhancing its convenience. Accessible from anywhere via mobile, it conveniently indicates the current availability of napkins.

[0050] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 2C refers to a pictorial representation 206 of the blynk notification when there is no stock in the storage unit 108. In one embodiment herein, the rectangular window with a rounded border is displayed prominently in the center of the screen. This pop-up notification grabs the user's attention to deliver an important message. The user manually refills the stock level of the sanitary napkin. The IoT-based vending device 100, which has a potentially low stock or inventory warning symbol, could be used alongside the text for better visual communication. The computing device 122 includes buttons within the pop-up window. These buttons could be for actions like acknowledging the notification (e.g., "OK" button) or navigating to a stock level menu (depending on the specific user interface design). The IoT-based vending device 100 is a user-friendly pop-up notification system that effectively communicates critical inventory information to the vending machine operator.

[0051] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 2D refers to a pictorial representation 208 of the email from the blynk web. In one embodiment herein, the blynk suggests notification from the Blynk cloud platform, which is consistent with the IoT-based vending device 100. While there's no subject line displayed, the message content provides the context. "Dispenser: No Stock" - This confirms the vending machine dispenser is out of stock. "Please fill the stock" - This is a request to refill the machine's user. "Open in the app/Mute notifications"-these are likely call-to-action buttons. The first button might open a dedicated app screen for the vending machine, allowing for further monitoring or actions (depending on the app's functionalities). The second button might be for muting future notifications from the IoT-based vending device 100.

[0052] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIGs. 2E-2F refer to pictorial representations (210, 212) of a timeline process of the blynk web. In one embodiment herein, the utilization of the IoT-based vending device 100 to offers valuable insights into its operational activity. This includes tracking online and offline periods, as well as instances of stock unavailability, which are all conveniently accessible through the Blynk web dashboard.

[0053] The online period in the IoT-based vending device 100 is successfully connected to the cloud platform through the network 120. The real-time data transmission, including coin insertion events, napkin dispensing, and potentially remaining napkin level. The offline period in the IoT-based vending device 100 the cloud platform due to various reasons. Here are some possibilities of network issues Wi-Fi signal interruption, Internet service provider (ISP) outage, and other technical issues. The timeline process of the blynk web is identifies network issues about the offline periods, which might assist diagnose network connectivity problems and ensure the IoT-based vending device 100 functions optimally.

[0054] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 3 refers to a flowchart 300 of a method for operating the IoT-based napkin vending device 100. At step 302, the coin acceptor 106 receives at least one coin through the IoT-based napkin vending device 100. At step 304, the coin acceptor 106 detect whether the coin is valid or invalid upon allowing the user to insert the coin and transmit the validated data. At step 306, the storage unit 108 detects the remaining napkins using an inventory tracking system upon receiving the validated data.

[0055] At step 308, the servo motor 110 activates to operate the storage unit 108 for dispensing at least one sanitary napkin from the opening 104. At step 310, transmits data regarding coin insertion, napkin dispensing, and inventory level to the user through the network 120 for updating a web dashboard with real-time inventory information. At step 312, generates a low stock notification on a mobile application, web dashboard, and email when the inventory level falls below the predefined threshold.

[0056] Numerous advantages of the present disclosure may be apparent from the discussion above. In accordance with the present disclosure, the IoT-based vending device 100 enables the user to discreet and convenient purchase of sanitary napkins, improving anxieties associated with traditional purchases in public places. The proposed IoT-based vending device 100 provide real-time information through Blynk application, preventing user obstruction from encountering empty dispenser. The proposed IoT-based vending device 100 allow for remote management of the napkin vending machine through the Blynk platform, reducing the need for physical visits to check stock or address malfunctions, increasing efficiency, and potentially lower overall maintenance costs.

[0057] The proposed IoT-based vending device 100 allow for easy replication and deployment in various locations with minimal modifications. The proposed IoT-based vending device 100 utilises a sophisticated coin recognition sensor to identify counterfeit coins based on weight, size, and even metallic composition. The proposed IoT-based vending device 100 could potentially ensure data transmission between the napkin vending machine and a cloud platform (Blynk) to prevent unauthorized access or manipulation of inventory data.

[0058] It will readily be apparent that numerous modifications and alterations can be made to the processes described in the foregoing examples without departing from the principles underlying the invention, and all such modifications and alterations are intended to be embraced by this application.
, Claims:CLAIMS:
I / We Claim:
1. An IoT-based napkin vending device (100), comprising:
a housing (102) having an opening (104) that allows a user to receive at least one sanitary napkin, wherein said housing (102) comprises:
a coin acceptor (106) operationally exposed from the housing (102), wherein the coin acceptor (106) is configured to detect the coin that is valid or invalid upon allowing the user to insert the coin and transmit the validated data;
a storage unit (108) positioned within the housing (102), wherein the storage unit (108) is configured to store one or more sanitary napkins;
a servo motor (110) positioned within the housing (102), wherein the servo motor (110) is configured to operate the storage unit (108) for dispensing at least one sanitary napkin upon receiving a valid coin insertion; and
a controller (112) having a processor and a memory for storing one or more instructions executable by the user, wherein the controller (112) is configured to:
detecting the coin denomination and authenticity of the inserted coins in the coin acceptor (106);
activating the servo motor (110) to dispense the at least one sanitary napkin through the opening upon receiving a valid coin insertion; and
transmitting detected data to Blynk processes for updating a web dashboard with real-time inventory information.
2. The IoT-based napkin vending device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the IoT-based device (100) communicates with a computing device (100) through a network (120), wherein the network (120) is a Blynk cloud platform.
3. The IoT-based napkin vending device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the detected data includes coin insertion, napkin dispensing events, and remaining napkin.
4. The IoT-based napkin vending device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the storage unit (108) having a sensing unit that is configured to detect the remaining napkins in the storage unit (108), and transmit the detected data to the controller (112).
5. The IoT-based napkin vending device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the controller (112) is configured to alert the user when the napkin stock falls below a predefined threshold through a mobile application, web dashboard, and email.
6. The IoT-based napkin vending device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the web dashboard for visualizing operational data, including online and offline periods, stock availability, and timestamps of the IoT-based device activity.
7. The IoT-based napkin vending device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the IoT-based device (100) comprises a display unit (114) for providing information on the napkin stock availability.
8. The IoT-based napkin vending device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the IoT-based device (100) comprises:
a voltage regulator (118) is positioned within the housing (102), wherein the voltage regulator (118) is configured to maintain stable voltage for consistent operation; and
a power switch (116) is positioned on the housing (102), wherein the power switch (116) is configured to allow the user to power ON and OFF the IoT-based napkin vending device (100).
9. A method for operating an IoT-based napkin vending device (100), comprising:
receiving at least one coin using a coin acceptor (106) of the IoT-based napkin vending device (100);
detecting the coin that is valid or invalid upon allowing the user to insert the coin and transmit the validated data;
detecting the remaining napkins in a storage unit (108) using an inventory tracking system upon receiving the validated data;
activating a servo motor (110) to operate the storage unit (108) for dispensing at least one sanitary napkin from an opening (104);
transmitting data regarding the coin insertion, napkin dispensing, and inventory level to a user through a network (120) for updating a web dashboard with real-time inventory information; and
generating a low stock notification on a mobile application, web dashboard, and email when the inventory level falls below a predefined threshold.