AI Smart Vending Machine based on ESP32-C6

Client

A vending machine operator seeking to retrofit existing machines with a universal AI perception system that recognizes products visually.

Challenge

Recognizing 200+ SKUs with varying packaging (cans, bottles, bags, boxes) in a refrigerated, glass-front environment with reflections and variable lighting.

Product Concept & Architecture

The ESP32-C6 Wi-Fi 6/BLE SoC is paired with an OV5640 camera mounted behind the glass. A 7-inch TFT touch display handles user interaction.

Engineering Solution

When a product is removed, the camera captures an image. An INT8-quantized EfficientNet-Lite model (800KB) on the ESP32-C6 classifies the product from 200 SKUs in under 200ms. An anomaly detection model flags unrecognized products for operator review.

Result

98% product recognition accuracy across 200 SKUs. <200ms per transaction. 30% increase in sales.