🧺 Tray Drop Mechanism in Vending Machines – Cheapest Vending Machine

 

If you’ve ever used a vending machine and seen your product drop into a bin below, that’s the tray drop mechanism in action. It’s one of the simplest and most affordable ways to deliver products in a vending machine. Let’s understand how it works.

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💡 What Is a Tray Drop Mechanism?

In this system, each item is kept on a small tray or shelf. When someone selects a product, the tray tilts or opens and the product falls into the pickup area. Gravity does the rest of the work!

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⚙️ How Does It Work?

Here’s how a typical tray drop system functions:

1. Each tray holds one item, like a cold drink, chips, or chocolate.
2. A motor or solenoid is attached to the tray’s lock or flap.
3. When payment is confirmed, the system sends a signal.
4. The tray tilts or flap opens.
5. The product drops down and slides to the collection area.
6. You pick up your item from the pickup door at the bottom.

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🔌 Common Mechanisms Used

Depending on the product type and budget, vending machines use different methods:

Mechanism	Use Case Example (India)
Solenoid Lock	Packaged snacks like Lays, Kurkure
Servo Motor	Heavier items like Bisleri bottles
Cam or Gear	Items with precise positioning needed
Gravity Flap	Light items like energy bars or candies

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🤔 Why Use Tray Drop Mechanism?

• ✅ Low cost – ideal for budget vending setups.
• ✅ Fewer moving parts – less maintenance.
• ✅ Works well for small and medium products.

This method is perfect for vending machines placed in colleges, metro stations, corporate offices, and even hospitals.

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⚠️ Things to Keep in Mind

• The tray must be at the right angle so products drop smoothly.
• Use soft padding at the bottom to avoid breakage.
• Sensors can be added to confirm if the item has dropped properly.