Abstract: An electronically actuated bulk vending machine with a merchandise storage globe seated on a base for electronically actuated distribution of the merchandise via a rotatable merchandise wheel nested in the base and under the storage globe where the machine includes an electric motor for rotating a gear where the gear extends from the motor to engage the merchandise wheel along the peripheral gearing thereof.

Abstract: A flat article vending machine capable of mechanical or electronic actuation and which provides for convertibility using modular actuation assemblies, has replaceable chimney hopper modules, an anti vandalism gate, and a pocket display panel assembly, and is front loading.

Abstract: An electronically actuated and monitorable bulk vending machine assembly for electronically actuated vending from a select one of a plurality of rack mounted of bulk vending including at least one electrically lockable, crank actuated vending machine linked to a microprocessor controlled, interrogatable central control and currency acceptor unit and methods of assembly and use associated therewith.

Abstract: An electronically actuated and monitorable bulk vending machine assembly for electronically actuated vending from a select one of a plurality of rack mounted of bulk vending machines. The electronically actuated and monitorable bulk vending machine assembly includes a microprocessor controlled, interrogatable central control and currency acceptor unit and methods of assembly and use associated therewith.

Abstract: A dynamic bulk vending machine including a merchandise globe assembly sitting on an upper hopper, an intermediate chamber containing a unitary, multi-layer, serpentine, wire-form track defining an irregular pathway for spherical merchandise which sits on a lower hopper, all of which sit on a base containing a coin receiving actuation mechanism which is mechanically linked to both hoppers.

Abstract: A card reader and validator for use in wagering terminals includes a housing with a paper path. A paper drive surface of a drive wheel projects into the paper path. A platen assembly includes a pressure roller for pressing paper against the paper drive surface of the drive wheel and a platen surface for pressing paper agianst the paper path at a processing zone. The platen assembly is pivotally mounted to the housing in a manner such that it is biased toward the paper path when the drive wheel rotates in one direction and is lifted away from the paper path when the drive wheel rotates in the opposite direction. Corresponding ribs in the platen surface and paper path flatten the paper in the processing zone to facilitate the reading of optical marks on the paper by optical sensors. An ink jet printhead is provided for printing indicia on a portion of paper traveling through the paper path. A wick mounted to the platen assembly absorbs ink from the ink jet printhead during a purge cycle.