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2010/7/29

Dinalan devises flexible solution for control of vending machines

The engineering company Dinalan has developed a novel solution for the control of vending machines. It has great flexibility due to the readily available software and the possibility of customisation, and its competitive prices make this product a very attractive alternative for installation, both in prototypes and small series, as well as in projects for large quantities of machines. In a simple and easy manner of integration with the application provided by the customer, this application will enable resolving the problems that usually arise when dealing with money payments, whether with notes or in cash.

The system is designed to be incorporated into a PC which functions with Microsoft Windows, but Dinalan is now developing the version to work with an open operative system, of a Linux type. This adaptation will help to bring down the unit costs of the vending machines further, of great interest when what is required is an operation involving a large number of the machines.

Simplicity and efficiency

The product designed by Dinalan comprise an electronic system and its associated software which, in a very simple manner, is connected on one side to the PC by means of a USB port and, on the other, it is linked to methods of payment. In this way, the coins column, the lector for banknotes and lector for pre-payment cards with MDB bus can be handled, while with the cctalk bus, the lector for banknotes and lector for pre-payment cards and hopper systems with classification and return selectors can also be administered. The system also enables operation with both buses at the same time, for example, managing a combination of selector and cctalk returners, at the same time as an MDB banknote lector.

There also exists the possibility of managing digital entries and exits, normal and powered, aimed at reading buttons, sensors and alarms, activating leds and even activating small motors.

Given its special design and characteristics, this solution for vending machines enables the undertaking of automatic prototype systems rapidly – parking payments, payments for products, service charges for developing photos or for milk sales from vending machines, amongst many other possibilities.

The customer acquiring the Dinalan system receives an electronic system and software modules with which high-level functions can be effected - credit consultations, payments, accounts, etcetera - in a very easy manner. Amongst its additional services for companies, there is a dedicated technical support department.

Previous experience

Dinalan has a lengthy experience in the field of vending systems, having undertaken R+D projects and specific development applications for large companies at a national level. Some examples are devising the software introduced into the RETA betting machines, marketed by the Ekasa company, designing payment systems for milk vending machines or official government forms and collaborating on electronics projects with the Azkoyen company for the development of software for the control of cigarette, coffee and cold drinks’ machines.

Knowing the needs of the sector and the experience acquired over the years has enabled Dinalan to provide their own and differentiated solution for the control of vending machines.