[Tuổi Trẻ News] Freshmen Develop AI-Integrated Automated Vending Systems

First-year students from the Institute of Intelligent and Interactive Technologies at Ho Chi Minh City University of Economics (UEH) have successfully developed a range of innovative automated vending machines, including an emotion-based beverage vending machine, an automatic instant noodle vending machine, and an automatic fruit tea vending machine.

By integrating artificial intelligence into vending machines, the logistics technology students designed a beverage vending machine capable of selecting drinks based on the emotions of the buyer.

Đặng Kim Thanh, a student from the logistics technology program, shared: “Users can input their age, gender, and preferences so that the AI can recommend suitable drinks. Currently, the beverages come with pre-set toppings, but we are planning to add a customization feature to let users freely choose their preferred options.”

The machine operates using facial recognition and emotion analysis. Thanh explained: “For example, if the system detects that the user is happy, it might suggest a sweet, colorful drink to match their mood.”

In addition to the emotion-based vending machine, other teams developed innovative products as well. A group led by Nghiêm Nhật Minh created an automatic instant noodle vending machine with a 30-liter capacity, priced at 10,000 VND per bowl. Minh shared: “Our machine allows users to select the broth, toppings, and portion size. It’s designed to serve hot, fresh bowls of noodles quickly and conveniently.”

Meanwhile, Nguyễn Trường Thịnh, Director of the Institute of Intelligent and Interactive Technologies, praised the students for their creativity and practical application of technology. He emphasized: “These projects demonstrate the students’ ability to integrate interdisciplinary knowledge into real-world solutions, preparing them for future technological challenges.”

Another team, led by Đào Minh Duyên, focused on designing an automated fruit tea vending machine. Duyên explained: “Our machine allows users to choose their preferred level of sweetness and the type of fruit topping. It’s a convenient option for people looking for fresh, healthy beverages.”

These innovations are part of the institute’s broader efforts to encourage students to apply artificial intelligence, data analytics, and automation in solving everyday problems. The students’ projects not only highlight their technical skills but also their ability to meet consumer needs with user-friendly solutions.

Source: Tuổi Trẻ News