Multiple column multiple choice vending machine

Claim 1

A multiple column multiple choice vending machine comprising, a plurality of article storage columns arranged in vertical sideby-side positions with vertical partitions therebetween, at least one of the partitions between adjacent columns having an aperture intermediate its length through which an article stored in one column can move into the adjacent column, a plurality of vending gates disposed to provide a respective vending gate for each article storage column, and diverting means adapted to be removably positioned in one respective column at a point spaced from the respective vending gate thereof to divert those articles stored in the one column on one side of the diverting means to an adjacent second storage column for vending by the respective vending gate of the second column while permitting articles stored in the first column on the other side of the diverting means to be vended by the respective vending gate for the first column, said diverting means being comprised of a plate member normally closing said aperture and hinged at its lower edge to be movable to an upwardly inclined position within one of the adjacent columns to permit movement of articles in the one storage column on the upper side of the inclined plate through the aperture into the other adjacent storage column.