Vending machine de baixo custo: integração de chatbot e economia circular no varejo autônomo

Abstract

This work presents the development and validation process of a low-cost vending machine prototype, based on the principles of technology use and the circular economy. The central problem of the research lies in the economic and logistical barriers that prevent small entrepreneurs in the far north of Brazil, specifically in the border region of Oiapoque-AP, from accessing conventional autonomous retail technologies. The methodology adopted consisted of a reverse engineering and upcycling approach, using discarded metal structures from TV displays and modular acrylic cabinets. The technological innovation of the project focuses on the dematerialization of the hardware interface, replacing ejection motors and card readers with a "logical delivery" based on connectivity via chatbot (WhatsApp). In this model, the system opening of compartments protected by numerical locks. The results demonstrate that the solution reduces manufacturing costs by more than 80% when compared to industrial models, proving to be a sustainable and easy-to-maintain alternative. It is concluded that the integration between popular messaging tools and the reuse of materials not only enables commercial automation in remote areas, but also promotes digital inclusion and strengthens the local economy, fulfilling the requirements of innovation and social impact.