How It Works

The Cup Dispenser – How It Works and Why It Jams

1 min read

The cup has to be under the spout before the drink flows. That is the cup dispenser's job.

A cup dispenser is a set of columns holding stacks of cups. A mechanism separates one cup and drops it under the spout, and a sensor confirms it is there. When a column empties, the dispenser rotates to the next; when all are empty, the machine reports no cups.

Causes of jams

Using your own mug

Many machines let you skip the cup. A sensor then detects the customer's mug. Check whether a model supports this in the coffee vending machine (publisher's site) descriptions or with the operator.

Loading cups

Load cups as the manual says, in a size the manufacturer approves.

FAQ

Can any cups be used? No. The dispenser works properly only with cups of specific dimensions.

What happens when cups run out? The machine usually blocks cup drinks or allows your own mug.