METHODS FOR MONITORING A PLURALITY OF REMOTE LOCAL UNITS CONNECTED IN A NETWORK AND GENERATING MESSAGES THEREFROM, AND A DEVICE EMPLOYED IN SAID LOCAL UNITS

摘要

A method for monitoring a distributed system for supplying goods and services allows for the generation of messages concerning the state of the system. The system comprises a number of local units which may be e.g. vending machines. The generation of messages is based on certain definitions of events, message types, and when the messages should be generated. The definitions are stored in a microcontroller in each local unit which communicates with a host computer in a control center. Defined events are detected and registered in the local unit and compared with predetermined control criteria before a message is transmitted to the host computer according to the preset definitions and used for updating. The resulting information is used for managing and servicing the system. In particular applications the method allows for generation of alarms, the operation of electronic coin units and inventory control and sales prognoses.