Communication device for vending machine and method of using the same

摘要

The present application is directed to systems and methods for transmitting vending machine data wirelessly via a reporting device. Each vending machine may connect to a reporting device. The reporting device may communicate with a mobile device wirelessly, where the mobile device may be carried by an operator. The reporting device may transmit vending machine data to the mobile device. The reporting device may transmit maintenance information to the mobile device. The mobile device may upload the vending machine data and maintenance information via a network to a remote device. The reporting device may enable a customer to make purchases with a mobile device. The reporting device may receive a repair-needed notification from a customer's mobile device.

主权项

1. A communication device for a vending machine comprising:
a vending machine interface; a wireless communication interface; a memory element; and a processor:
receiving vending machine data from the vending machine interface, the vending machine data identifying products sold;storing, in the memory element, the vending machine data;entering into a sleep mode when inactive;exiting the sleep mode periodically;searching, using the wireless communication interface, for a nearby device;establishing, using the wireless communication interface, a connection to the device;receiving, from the device, a request for an encryption challenge;transmitting, to the device, the encryption challenge;receiving, from the device, a response to the encryption challenge;verifying the response; andtransmitting, via the wireless communication interface, the vending machine data to the device.