Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of automated vending machines, and in particular, relates to a sugarcane juice vending machine for automatically handling and processing one or more sugarcane sticks with minimal manual intervention.

BACKGROUND
[0002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present disclosure. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed disclosure, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[0003] Sugarcane juice is a widely enjoyed beverage known for its refreshing taste and nutritional benefits. It is second most consumed beverage in India, after tea. Traditionally, sugarcane juice is extracted manually using hand-operated machines, which require significant physical effort and time. This method, although simple, presents several challenges, including inconsistent juice quality, low extraction efficiency, and hygiene concerns.
[0004] Existing sugarcane juice machines have attempted to address some of these issues by providing mechanized solutions to extract juice from sugarcane sticks. These machines typically consist of a crushing mechanism that presses the sugarcane sticks to extract the juice. Despite these advancements, many existing machines still have significant and critical challenges, such as hygiene concerns, safety issues and manpower dependency.
[0005] One major drawback of existing sugarcane juice machines is that the rollers are exposed, posing a risk of fatal accidents of operators. These machines often require frequent manual intervention to feed the sugarcane sticks, which interrupts the extraction process and reduces efficiency. Moreover, the juice extraction mechanisms in these machines are often not optimized, leading to lower juice yield and inconsistent quality.
[0006] Another significant issue is the challenge of maintaining hygiene standards. Major challenge is that rollers are exposed to environment, attracting a lot of dust and flies. These unhygienic conditions lead to dust, houseflies and most critical aspect of this contamination, causing microbial growth on these exposed parts, thereby leading to health hazards for consumers. The crushing and juice collection components of existing machines can be difficult to clean thoroughly, leading to the accumulation of residues that can contaminate the juice. Juice vendor often use poor quality ice to make the juice cold, posing a risk to consumer health and detracting from user experience.
[0007] Therefore, there is a need for an improved sugarcane juice vending machine that addresses these drawbacks by automatically handling and processing multiple sugarcane sticks with minimal manual intervention.

OBJECTS OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0008] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies are as listed herein below.
[0009] A general object of the present disclosure is to provide a sugarcane juice vending machine that addresses drawbacks of existing machines.
[0010] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an enclosed machine that ensures the crushing rollers are not exposed to the external environment, thereby maintaining hygienic operational conditions.
[0011] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an enclosed machine that ensures bagasse (sugarcane waste) is not exposed to the external environment, thereby maintaining hygienic operational conditions.
[0012] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a machine that is entirely refrigerated, eliminating need to use ice to serve chilled juice to customers.
[0013] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a sugarcane juice vending machine that offers a fully automated process, ensuring consistent production of sugarcane juice.
[0014] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a sugarcane juice vending machine that minimizes human intervention, reducing the risk of contamination and enhancing operational efficiency.
[0015] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a sugarcane juice vending machine that is capable of monitoring juice level in the container, ensuring optimal juice quantity is dispensed to users.
[0016] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a sugarcane juice vending machine that allows customers to easily order the required number of glasses with customized flavor preferences.
[0017] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a sugarcane juice vending machine that facilitates convenient and secure transactions through multiple payment methods, ensuring 100% digital transactions and eliminating acceptance of cash, thereby enhancing security and resistance to vandalism.
[0018] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a sugarcane juice vending machine that incorporates self-cleaning mechanisms, maintaining the cleanliness and longevity of the machine.
[0019] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a sugarcane juice vending machine that efficiently utilizes space with strategically positioned components, enhancing functionality and design of the machine.
[0020] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a sugarcane juice vending machine that maintains the freshness of the sugarcane sticks and the extracted juice.

SUMMARY
[0021] Aspects of present disclosure relates to the field of automated vending machines, and in particular, relates to a sugarcane juice vending machine for automatically handling and processing multiple sugarcane sticks with minimal manual intervention. This sugarcane juice vending machine addresses the drawbacks of existing machines, ensuring a more user-friendly, safe, hygienic and versatile experience.
[0022] An aspect of present disclosure relates to a sugarcane juice vending machine for obtaining freshly crushed sugarcane juice. This includes a storage unit with compartments designed to house and separate sugarcane sticks, ensuring efficient handling. Upon receiving an order, the sugarcane juice vending machine dispenses one or more sticks onto a tray, which moves from a horizontal to a vertical position for processing. This tray facilitates the transfer of the received sugarcane sticks to a crushing unit, where they are efficiently crushed to yield high-quality juice. The extracted juice further undergoes filtration by a filtration mechanism, ensuring purity before being collected in a container for consumption.
[0023] In an aspect, the tray seamlessly transitions between horizontal to vertical positions, enabling continuous processing as sugarcane sticks are fed into the crushing unit.
[0024] In an aspect, the sugarcane juice vending machine is equipped with sensors to monitor juice levels in a container, ensuring optimal quantities are dispensed.
[0025] Additionally, a container dispenser allows for efficient order fulfillment, dispensing multiple containers in response to customer requests.
[0026] In an aspect, the crushing unit and filtering mechanism are automatically cleaned by spraying water, ensuring optimal cleanliness and minimizing contamination risks.
[0027] In an aspect, a cooling unit is integrated to preserve freshness of stored sugarcane sticks, ensuring a consistent, refreshing, and cool juice for consumers.
[0028] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.
[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of proposed sugarcane juice vending machine, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0031] FIG. 2A illustrates an exemplary front view of the proposed sugarcane juice vending machine, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0032] FIG. 2B illustrates an exemplary left view of the proposed sugarcane juice vending machine, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0033] FIG. 2C illustrates an exemplary right view of the proposed sugarcane juice vending machine, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0034] FIG. 2D illustrates an exemplary top view of the proposed sugarcane juice vending machine, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0035] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary flow chart for ordering sugarcane juice from the proposed sugarcane juice vending machine, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0036] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary flow chart for processing of sugarcane sticks upon receipt of an order, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0037] FIG. 5 illustrates exemplary steps involved in proposed method for operating a sugarcane juice vending machine, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0038] 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.
[0039] Embodiments of present disclosure relates to the field of automated vending machines, and in particular, relates to a sugarcane juice vending machine for automatically handling and processing multiple sugarcane sticks with minimal manual intervention.
[0040] An embodiment of the present disclosure pertains to a sugarcane juice vending machine for obtaining freshly crushed sugarcane juice. This machine includes a storage unit with compartments intended to accommodate and separate sugarcane sticks, ensuring efficient handling of the raw material. Upon receiving an order, the vending machine dispenses one or more sugarcane sticks onto a tray, which transitions from a horizontal to a vertical position for processing. This tray facilitates transfer of the received sugarcane sticks to a crushing unit, where they are effectively crushed to yield high-quality juice. Subsequently, the extracted juice undergoes filtration by a filtration mechanism to ensure purity before being collected in a container for consumption.
[0041] In an embodiment, the tray seamlessly transitions between horizontal and vertical positions, enabling continuous processing as sugarcane sticks are fed into the crushing unit.
[0042] In an embodiment, the sugarcane juice vending machine is equipped with sensors to monitor juice levels in the container, ensuring optimal quantities are dispensed to consumers.
[0043] In an embodiment, a container dispenser is integrated into the machine to facilitate efficient order fulfillment, dispensing multiple containers in response to customer requests.
[0044] In an embodiment, the sugarcane juice vending machine includes an automatic cleaning system for the crushing unit and filtering mechanism, achieved through water spraying, thereby ensuring optimal cleanliness and minimizing contamination risks.
[0045] In an embodiment, a cooling unit is incorporated to preserve freshness of stored sugarcane sticks, thereby guaranteeing a consistent, refreshing, and cool juice experience for consumers.
[0046] Referring to FIGs. 1 and 2A-2D a sugarcane juice vending machine 100 (interchangeably referred to as vending machine 100, hereinafter) is disclosed to automate process of producing and dispensing freshly crushed sugarcane juice. The vending machine 100 is equipped with a body 101-1, including a door designated as 101-2. This body 101-1 serves as an outer structure of the vending machine, encompassing all internal components and mechanisms. The door 101-2 provides access to interior of the vending machine for operators. The vending machine 100 includes a storage unit 102 (as shown in FIG. 2B) with one or more walls forming one or more compartments 103, each compartment 103 accommodates a set of sugarcane sticks, organizing these efficiently within the vending machine 100. Additionally, the vending machine 100 includes an internal assembly (not shown) configured to store sugarcane sticks before getting separated and assist in dispensing one or more sugarcane sticks into a tray 104. The storage unit 102 ensures that the sugarcane sticks are neatly stored and can be easily accessed when needed. The compartments 103 in the storage unit 102 are specifically configured to separate the one or more sugarcane sticks from the set of sugarcane sticks and dispense them into the internal assembly which further separates one or more sugarcane sticks to dispense them into a tray 104. This separation mechanism is essential for automation process, allowing the vending machine 100 to dispense the one or more sugarcane sticks required for each order. By ensuring that the sugarcane sticks are pre-organized and separated, the storage unit 102 contributes to the seamless and efficient operation of the vending machine 100, facilitating smooth transition of the sugarcane sticks from storage to processing.
[0047] In an exemplary embodiment, the storage unit 102 is equipped with a rotational mechanism that facilitates the dispensing of sugarcane sticks from individual compartments. This rotation allows the unit to release one or more sugarcane sticks from a compartment ensuring a controlled and orderly distribution of the sticks for further processing within the vending machine 100.
[0048] In an embodiment, the internal assembly is positioned below the storage unit 102 and aligned parallel to receive one or more sugarcane sticks from the storage unit 102, upon rotation of the storage unit 102. This internal assembly holds, separates, and facilitates orderly movement of sugarcane sticks to the tray 104. This internal assembly maintains a steady flow of sugarcane sticks, thereby optimizing performance and productivity of the apparatus.
[0049] In an embodiment, the tray 104 receives the one or more sugarcane sticks when this is in a first position, which is a horizontal position. In this horizontal position, the tray is strategically positioned to collect the sugarcane sticks that are dispensed from the storage unit 102 through the internal assembly. Upon receiving the sugarcane sticks, the tray 104 transitions to a second position, which is a vertical position. The vertical position facilitates efficient transfer of the sugarcane sticks to the next stage of the process, ensuring that the sugarcane sticks are properly aligned and ready for crushing. This seamless movement between the horizontal and vertical positions ensures smooth and effective handling of the sugarcane sticks, contributing to efficiency and automation of the vending machine.
[0050] In an embodiment, when the tray 104 is in the vertical position, it facilitates transfer of sugarcane sticks to a crushing unit 106 (as shown in FIG. 2C). The crushing unit 106 is configured to receive the sugarcane sticks directly from the tray 104 and efficiently crush them to produce sugarcane juice. This crushing process includes strategically positioned two or more rollers within the crushing unit, which are specifically arranged to pull the sugarcane sticks through and crush them thoroughly, ensuring maximum extraction of juice from the sticks.
[0051] Further, the tray 104 is configured to move back from the vertical position to the horizontal position after feeding the sugarcane sticks into the crushing unit 106. This movement allows the tray to return to its original position to collect more sugarcane sticks from the storage unit 102 through the internal assembly, ensuring a continuous supply for the crushing process. The ability of the tray to move between these positions seamlessly is essential for efficient and automated operation of the vending machine 100, enabling it to handle large volumes of sugarcane sticks and produce a steady supply of fresh sugarcane juice.
[0052] In an embodiment, a filtering mechanism 108 (as shown in FIG. 2C) is configured to receive and filter the sugarcane juice extracted from crushing of the received one or more sugarcane sticks by the crushing unit, and the filtered sugarcane juice is collected in a container. The container is dispensed from a container dispenser 110 to a container holder unit 122 (as shown in FIG. 2C), the container holder unit 122 is attached to a platform 120. In another embodiment, the container holder unit 122 can be configured to hold one or more containers dispensed from the container dispenser 110.
[0053] In an embodiment, the container dispenser 110 is configured to dispense one or more containers upon successful payment. During this process, the container holder unit 122 is initially positioned in a first position directly below the container dispenser 110 to receive the dispensed containers. Once the containers are dispensed, the platform 120 moves to a second position beneath the filtration mechanism. This allows the containers to collect the freshly filtered sugarcane juice. After the containers are filled with juice, the platform transitions to a third position, which is located outside a window 140 (as shown in FIG. 2A) of the vending machine 100. This positioning enables the user to easily retrieve the containers filled with juice. Upon successful retrieval by the user, the platform 120 moves back from the third position to the first position to be ready to collect containers for the next order.
[0054] In an embodiment, the vending machine 100 is equipped with one or more sensors 112 to monitor level of sugarcane juice in the container. These sensors 112 ensure that the vending machine 100 dispenses correct amount of juice. As the sugarcane sticks are crushed, the sensors 112 continuously measure the juice level. When the juice reaches a predefined level in the container, the sensors signal the crushing unit to stop crushing more sugarcane sticks. This automated monitoring and control mechanism ensures that each serving of juice is consistent in quantity, enhancing user satisfaction and optimizing the efficiency of the vending machine. The use of sensors not only maintains precise control over juice levels but also helps in minimizing waste and ensuring that the machine operates smoothly without manual intervention.
[0055] In an embodiment, the vending machine 100 incorporates an automated cleaning system that sprays water on both the crushing unit 106 and the filtering mechanism 108. This cleaning process is essential to maintain hygiene and ensure optimal performance of the vending machine 100. For instance, water used for cleaning is stored in a first receptacle 132 (as shown in FIG. 2C) located at the bottom of the machine. During the cleaning cycle, water is drawn from this first receptacle 132 and sprayed onto the crushing unit and components of the filtering mechanism 108, effectively removing any residual pulp, juice, or debris. After cleaning, the used water, containing the washed-away residues, is collected in a second receptacle 134 (as shown in FIG. 2C), also positioned at the bottom of the machine. This used water is directed through a specially designed cavity located on the platform 120. This cavity acts as a channel, guiding the water down to the second receptacle 134, which is designated for collecting waste water. By channeling the used water through this cavity, the vending machine 100 ensures that the waste is properly contained, preventing any spills or contamination, and maintaining a clean and hygienic environment inside the vending machine. This separation of clean and used water ensures that the cleaning process is efficient and sanitary, preventing any potential contamination of the crushing unit 106 and filtering mechanism 108 or the juice produced. The strategic placement of the first and second receptacles 132 and 134 at the bottom of the vending machine facilitates easy access for maintenance and disposal of the used water.
[0056] In an embodiment, the vending machine 100 further comprises a cooling unit 114 configured to cool the set of sugarcane sticks stored inside the sugarcane juice vending machine. The cooling unit 114 comprises a fan 114-1 and a compressor 114-2, as illustrated in FIG. 2B. It should be noted that positions of the fan 114-1 and the compressor 114-2 are exemplary and may be altered without departing from the scope of the invention. The fan 114-1 circulates cool air evenly throughout the vending machine 100, ensuring that the sugarcane sticks remain fresh and at the desired temperature. Additionally, the compressor 114-2 is responsible for the refrigeration process. The compressor 114-2 works by compressing refrigerant and enabling it to absorb heat from the storage unit 102 specifically, thereby cooling the sugarcane sticks and the juice. By preventing the sugarcane sticks from drying out or losing their natural sweetness, the vending machine 100 delivering consistently refreshing and high-quality juice. The cooling unit 114 works continuously to maintain a stable temperature within the storage compartments, effectively enhancing performance and reliability of the vending machine.
[0057] In an embodiment, the vending machine 100 is equipped with a garbage bin to collect bagasse, the fibrous residue left after the sugarcane sticks are crushed in the crushing unit. This garbage bin is positioned to receive the bagasse directly from the crushing unit, ensuring that the waste is managed efficiently and the machine remains clean and clutter-free. Regular removal and disposal of the bagasse from the bin is necessary to ensure continuous, smooth operation of the vending machine.
[0058] In an embodiment, the vending machine includes one or more flavor containers to store multiple flavors such as Lemon, Ginger, Amla or other flavour options. When the order is placed, a pre-defined amount of the selected flavor is dispensed into the container. Subsequently, when the sugarcane juice is dispensed from the filtering mechanism into the container, it mixes with the flavor within the container. Moreover, the flavor container within the vending machine is equipped with nozzles and mechanism that precisely dispenses the selected flavor into the sugarcane juice. This ensures accurate and efficient mixing, enhancing taste experience for the customer. By incorporating individual nozzles for each flavor option, the vending machine allows customers to enjoy their preferred flavor. This process caters to diverse preferences and provides a customizable beverage option, elevating the customer satisfaction.
[0059] In an embodiment, the vending machine 100 includes a control unit 116 operatively coupled to the storage unit 102, the tray 104, the crushing unit 106, the filtering mechanism 108, and the container dispenser 110. The control unit 116 may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, edge or fog microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, logic circuitries, and/or any devices that process data based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the control unit 116 may be configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory 118 of the vending machine 100. The memory 118 may be configured to store one or more computer-readable instructions or routines in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, which may be fetched and executed to create or share data packets over a network service. The memory 118 may include any non-transitory storage device including, for example, volatile memory such as Random Access Memory (RAM), or non-volatile memory such as Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM), flash memory, and the like.
[0060] In an embodiment, the control unit 116 is responsible for coordinating and managing the various components included in the juice extraction and dispensing process. When the order is received, the control unit 116 activates the storage unit 102 to dispense the required number of sugarcane sticks. These sticks are further dropped to the tray 104 to receive them, which moves to appropriate position before directing them to the crushing unit 106. The control unit 116 regulates the crushing process, ensuring that the sugarcane sticks are properly crushed to extract the juice. Once the juice is extracted, the control unit 116 activates the filtering mechanism 108 to filter the juice, removing any solid particles, residues or impurities. The filtered juice is dispensed into one or more containers (based on the number of glasses selected by the customers) from the container dispenser 110. Each container already contains the flavor chosen by the customer. As the juice is dispensed into the container, it automatically mixes with the flavor already present.
[0061] Furthermore, the control unit 116 ensures seamless operation of the vending machine, from dispensing sugarcane sticks to delivering filtered juice in containers, providing customers with a convenient and hassle-free experience.
[0062] Referring to FIG. 3, an exemplary flow chart 300 for ordering sugarcane juice from the proposed vending machine 100 is disclosed. At block 302, the process begins when a user interacts with an interface 124 attached to the vending machine 100. This interface 124 allows the user to select number of glasses of sugarcane juice and customize flavor preferences for each glass.
[0063] At block 304, once selections are made, total amount is calculated based on the number of glasses and flavors chosen. The total amount is displayed on the interface 124.
[0064] At block 306, the user is prompted to make a payment. The vending machine 100 facilitates payment through all types of digital payment methods including card payments, UPI payments etc. A QR Code is shown on the machine for UPI payment.
[0065] In an exemplary embodiment, card payments encompass various methods including debit cards, credit cards, and contactless payments. The vending machine reads the card information, communicates with a payment gateway server for authorization, and upon approval, proceeds with the transaction, ensuring a seamless payment experience. To make a UPI payment at the vending machine, the user first selects the UPI payment option, prompting the vending machine 100 to display a transaction QR code. The user further opens a UPI-enabled mobile app like Google Pay, PhonePe, or Paytm, and scans the transaction QR code. The app automatically fills in the payment details, allowing the user to verify amount and authorize transaction by entering their UPI PIN. This integration of UPI payment functionality in the vending machine caters to the growing preference for digital transactions, enhancing user convenience and operational efficiency. Further, payment status is received from the payment gateway server, indicating whether the payment is successful or not, and displayed on the interface.
[0066] In another exemplary embodiment, a static menu QR code can be installed on or near the vending machine to place the order from user’s mobile phone. When the user scans the static menu QR code with their phone camera, they can order directly from their phone. The scanned menu QR Code directs them to a user interface displaying the exact same menu options visible on the interface of the vending machine. Through this interface, users can select the number of glasses and customize the flavors for each glass according to their preferences. This mobile ordering system offers convenience and flexibility, allowing users to make selections without having to interact physically with the vending machine's interface. Once the selections are made, the interface facilitates payment through various methods, including card payments and UPI payments. Users can choose to pay using their debit or credit cards or opt for the quick and secure UPI payment method, scanning a unique and dynamic order QR code generated on the user’s mobile phone for the transaction. This process ensures a smooth and contactless ordering experience, aligning with modern preferences for digital and mobile interactions.
[0067] In an exemplary embodiment, once the order is confirmed, a unique and dynamic transaction order QR code is generated on the user's mobile phone. This transaction QR code encapsulates all the necessary payment details, including the total amount to be paid. The user scans this transaction QR code using a QR code scanner attached to the vending machine, conveniently located next to the interface 124. The scanned QR code is transmitted to the payment gateway server for processing, where the payment gateway server verifies the embedded payment details and processes the transaction using the linked payment method, such as a bank account, UPI ID, or digital wallet. Upon successful payment, the server sends a confirmation back to the vending machine, which then activates its internal mechanisms to retrieve and process the sugarcane sticks, extract the juice, and dispense it into a container. The vending machine notifies the user of the successful payment and the juice preparation process through the interface, allowing the user to collect their prepared sugarcane juice from the designated dispensing area. This ensures a secure, quick, and contactless payment experience, leveraging convenience scanning.
[0068] At block 308, upon successful payment the vending machine 100 activates the storage unit, crushing unit, and filtering mechanism to perform the corresponding operations to produce juice.
[0069] Referring to FIG. 4, an exemplary flow chart 400 disclosing processing of sugarcane sticks upon receipt of an order. The process begins with block 402, indicating an initiation of proposed vending machine 100, upon receiving an order from an interface 124 attached to the vending machine 100 for sugarcane juice. Upon activation, the vending machine proceeds to block 404, where it retrieves a pre-defined number of sugarcane sticks from a storage unit 102.
[0070] At block 406, the vending machine 100 dispenses the retrieved sugarcane sticks onto a tray 104, positioning it in a designated area for further processing. As the sugarcane sticks are placed on the tray, the tray transitioned from a horizontal to a vertical position, facilitating their transfer to a crushing unit 106.
[0071] At block 408, the crushing unit 106 efficiently crushes the sugarcane sticks to extract the juice, ensuring high-quality results.
[0072] Following the extraction process, at block 410, the extracted sugarcane juice undergoes filtration using a filtering mechanism 108. This step removes any solid residues or impurities, ensuring that the collected juice is pure and ready for consumption. Further, at block 412, the filtered sugarcane juice is collected in one or more containers, in response to the customer order.
[0073] This exemplary flow chart 400 demonstrates the systematic process employed by the sugarcane juice vending machine upon receiving orders, ensuring efficient and hygienic production of fresh sugarcane juice for customers.
[0074] Referring to FIG. 5, a method 500 for operating a sugarcane juice vending machine 100 is disclosed. At block 502, the method begins with dispensing one or more sugarcane sticks from a storage unit 102. The storage unit 102 includes one or more walls forming one or more compartments, each compartment accommodates a set of sugarcane sticks and separates one or more sugarcane sticks from the set of sugarcane sticks. The separated sugarcane sticks are dispensed to a tray 104 that is positioned in a first position (i.e. horizontal or resting position).
[0075] At block 504, the tray 104 transitions from the first position to a second position (i.e. vertical position) upon receiving the sugarcane sticks. This movement includes a controlled mechanism that tilts or shifts the tray 104, positioning the sugarcane sticks for subsequent processing. The tray's movement is essential for aligning the sticks with a crushing unit 106, ensuring they are correctly fed into the crushing unit 106 for juice extraction.
[0076] At block 506, upon feeding the sugarcane sticks into the crushing unit 106 to extract juice, the crushing unit 106 operates. The crushing unit 106 includes two or more rollers (not shown) strategically positioned to apply pressure and crush the sugarcane sticks effectively. The crushing unit 106 includes two or more rollers positioned strategically to maximize the extraction of juice. These rollers are configured to apply optimal pressure and crush the sugarcane sticks thoroughly, ensuring a high yield of juice. The strategic placement and movement of the rollers are essential for the efficient functioning of the crushing unit 106, enabling the machine 100 to process received sugarcane sticks effectively. This process extracts maximum amount of juice while the tray 104, having delivered the sticks, moves back from the second position (i.e. vertical position) to the first position, ready to receive the next batch of sugarcane sticks. This cyclical movement of the tray 104 ensures continuous and efficient operation.
[0077] At block 508, the extracted juice is filtered using a filtering mechanism. This ensures that the juice is free from any solid residues or impurities, providing a pure and high-quality beverage. The filtered juice is collected in one or more containers, which are dispensed one at a time from a container dispenser 110 upon receiving an order. This process allows for efficient and quick service to customers.
[0078] Continuing further, to maintain the hygiene and operational efficiency of the machine 100, the method 500 includes the step of spraying water on the crushing unit 106 and the filtering mechanism 108 for cleaning. This automated cleaning process ensures that the crushing unit 106 and the filtering mechanism 108 are free from any leftover residues, reducing the risk of contamination and ensuring the machine remains in optimal working condition.
[0079] Furthermore, the method 500 includes the step of cooling the stored sugarcane sticks inside the sugarcane juice vending machine using a cooling unit 114. This cooling process preserves freshness of sugarcane sticks, ensuring that the juice produced is refreshing and of high quality. The cooling unit 114 helps maintain the optimal temperature for the sugarcane sticks, preventing them from drying out or losing their flavor, which is essential for producing high-quality sugarcane juice.
[0080] In addition to preserving the freshness of the sugarcane sticks, the cooling unit 114 also contributes to ensuring that the extracted sugarcane juice remains cool. By regulating the temperature within the vending machine, the cooling unit 114 prevents the juice from becoming warm or overheated, thereby maintaining its refreshing and invigorating qualities. This feature enhances the customer experience, as it ensures that the sugarcane juice dispensed from the vending machine is consistently cool and enjoyable to drink, even in warm weather conditions. Thus, the cooling unit plays a dual role in both preserving the integrity of the sugarcane sticks and ensuring that the sugarcane juice served to customers is cool and refreshing.
[0081] Continue further, the method 500 further includes the step of receiving bagasse from the crushing unit 106 and storing it into a garbage bin (not shown). This helps maintain cleanliness and hygiene within the vending machine, preventing the accumulation exposure of bagasse and potential odors or mess.
[0082] Thus, the proposed sugarcane juice vending machine improves efficiency, hygiene, and customer convenience. It offers an automated and reliable solution for producing fresh sugarcane juice while allowing customers to customize their orders. This sugarcane vending machine addresses the drawbacks of existing machines, ensuring a more user-friendly and versatile experience.
[0083] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the disclosure, other and further embodiments of the disclosure may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the disclosure is determined by the claims that follow. The disclosure is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the disclosure when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art

ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0084] The sugarcane juice vending machine of the present disclosure offers a fully automated process, ensuring hygienic and consistent production of sugarcane juice.
[0085] The sugarcane juice vending machine of the present disclosure minimizes human intervention, reducing risk of contamination and enhancing operational efficiency.
[0086] The sugarcane juice vending machine of the present disclosure is capable of monitoring juice levels in container, ensuring optimal juice quantity is dispensed to users.
[0087] The sugarcane juice vending machine of the present disclosure allows customers to easily order required number of glasses with customized flavor preferences.
[0088] The sugarcane juice vending machine of the present disclosure facilitates convenient and secure transactions through multiple payment methods.
[0089] The sugarcane juice vending machine of the present disclosure incorporates self-cleaning mechanisms, maintaining cleanliness and longevity of the machine.
[0090] The sugarcane juice vending machine of the present disclosure efficiently utilizes space with strategically positioned components, enhancing functionality and design of the machine.
[0091] The sugarcane juice vending machine of the present disclosure maintains freshness of sugarcane sticks and the extracted juice.
, Claims:1. A sugarcane juice vending machine (100) comprising:
a storage unit (102) with one or more walls forming one or more compartments (103), each compartment (103) accommodates a set of sugarcane sticks and separates one or more sugarcane sticks from the set of sugarcane sticks;
a tray (104) configured to collect the one or more sugarcane sticks separated from the storage unit, wherein the tray receives the one or more sugarcane sticks when the tray is in a first position, and upon receipt of the one or more sugarcane sticks, the tray moves to a second position;
a crushing unit (106) with two or more rollers strategically positioned to crush the received one or more sugarcane sticks from the tray, producing sugarcane juice; and
a filtering mechanism (108) configured to receive and filter the sugarcane juice extracted from crushing of the received one or more sugarcane sticks by the crushing unit, wherein the filtered sugarcane juice is collected in a container.
2. The sugarcane juice vending machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tray (104) being configured to move from the second position to the first position, upon feeding of the one or more sugarcane sticks in the crushing unit (106).
3. The sugarcane juice vending machine as claimed in claim 1, further comprises a container dispenser (110) configured to dispense one or more containers at a time upon receipt of an order.
4. The sugarcane juice vending machine as claimed in claim 1, further comprises one or more sensors (112) to monitor level of the sugarcane juice in the container, wherein the one or more sugarcane sticks are crushed until the juice level in the container reaches a predefined level.
5. The sugarcane juice vending machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein water being sprayed on the crushing unit (106) and the filtering mechanism (108) for cleaning.
6. The sugarcane juice vending machine as claimed in claim 1, further comprises a cooling unit (114) configured to cool the set of sugarcane sticks stored inside the sugarcane juice vending machine.
7. The sugarcane juice vending machine as claimed in claim 1, further comprises a garbage bin configured to receive bagasse from the crushing unit.
8. A method (500) for operating a sugarcane juice vending machine, the method comprising the steps of:
dispensing (502), one or more sugarcane sticks from a storage unit to a tray, wherein the tray being positioned in a first position;
moving (504), the tray to a second position upon receipt of the one or more sugarcane sticks;
crushing (506), the received one or more sugarcane sticks by a crushing unit to produce sugarcane juice; and
filtering (508), the sugarcane juice extracted from the crushing unit using a filtering mechanism, wherein the filtered sugarcane juice is collected in a container.
9. The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein the crushing unit comprises two or more rollers positioned strategically.
10. The method as claimed in claim 8, further comprises the step of moving the tray from the second position to the first position, upon feeding the one or more sugarcane sticks in the crushing unit.
11. The method as claimed in claim 8, further comprises the step of dispensing one or more containers at a time from a container dispenser, upon receiving an order.
12. The method as claimed in claim 8, further comprises the steps of spraying water on the crushing unit and the filtering mechanism for cleaning.

13. The method as claimed in claim 8, further comprises the step of cooling the stored one or more sugarcane sticks inside the sugarcane juice vending machine using a cooling unit.
14. The method as claimed in claim 9, further comprises the step of receiving bagasse from the crushing unit and storing into a garbage bin.