Miscellaneous Patents (Class 453/63)
  • Patent number: 10713892
    Abstract: A token dispensing system is adapted suitable for installing a token dispenser in a game device. A mounting bracket for the token dispenser provides a simple and inexpensive way to install the token dispenser as part of the token dispensing system inside the housing of a game device. The dispensing system includes an electronic control circuit that controls an alarm device to provide a low level warning signal when the level of tokens in the token dispenser is low and an empty warning signal when the token dispenser is empty. The electronic control circuit controls dispensing tokens from the token dispenser such that a user receives the correct number of tokens even if the dispenser runs out of tokens in the middle of dispensing a selected number of tokens during a transaction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2020
    Assignee: NAMCO USA INC.
    Inventors: Kenneth William Walters, Jr., John E. Vaughn, Timothy Craig Morrison
  • Patent number: 8984761
    Abstract: A battery identification device which sorts a specialty battery requiring replacement initially by diameter then subsequently by thickness through the interaction of an open channel and ridges which include progressively larger ridges that project into the channel to form zones of progressively diminished thickness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Plastics Plus, Inc
    Inventors: Christopher Brooks, Adrian Fournier, Jeremy Mallo, Carl Toti
  • Publication number: 20130115866
    Abstract: The invention discloses a coin changing system. The present invention is capable of sensing the coin storing condition of each of the plurality of the accommodating modules arranged in the matrix form of more than 2 rows and 2 columns simultaneously, without limiting the arrangement thereof. Furthermore, the unique design of the guiding component of the present invention is capable of avoiding the coins from getting jammed during the accommodating process thereof. Nevertheless, the present invention requires only one single motor to deal the coins of each of the plurality of the accommodating modules so as to minimize the size of the coin changing system of the present invention. Accordingly, the present invention overcomes the problems presented in the prior art by a relatively simple design.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventors: Hung-Yi Chang, Dong-Ying Yang
  • Patent number: 8393455
    Abstract: A coin processing machine comprises a housing for containing the coin processing device, a coin processing unit disposed within the housing for processing received coins of a plurality of denominations and discharging processed coins into a plurality of coin receptacles, and a coin receptacle station disposed within the housing for holding a plurality of coin receptacles. The coin receptacle station includes a plurality of individually moveable platforms each having at least one coin receptacle disposed thereon. Each moveable platform is moveable between a first position and a second position. Each moveable platform is disposed entirely within the housing for receiving coins in the at least one coin receptacle disposed thereon when in the first position, and each moveable platform extends out of the housing when in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Cummins-Allison Corp.
    Inventors: John R. Blake, Gary W. Cooper, Patrick J. Finn, Mark C. Munro, Mark A. Fladeland
  • Publication number: 20110195649
    Abstract: An end of a detection body provided contactable with an upper side peripheral surface of a coin rolling on a coin path hooks into reeding of the coin, and thus the detection body is moved to a moving direction. The movement of the detection body moves a receiving portion in the same direction, and rotates in a predetermined direction an axis support integrally provided with the receiving portion. The rotation of the axis receiver retracts from the coin path a sorting body projecting to the coin path. A release body proceeds to the coin path. The retraction of the sorting body from the coin path allows the coin to further roll on the coin path, press the release body, rotate the axis support reversely, and return the detection body and the sorting body to a standby position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Applicant: ASAHI SEIKO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroshi ABE, Takahito YAMAMIYA
  • Patent number: 7967126
    Abstract: An apparatus to locate a coin comprises a rotary platform configured to hold the coin and a plurality of coin contacting mechanisms, coupled to the rotary platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Coinsecure, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard M. Haddock
  • Publication number: 20110130084
    Abstract: The invention proposes an insertion device for coins for transferring said coins to a coin tester or to a coin-operated machine, having an insertion slot and having a coin outlet, between which is arranged a rotatable drum having a receiving region for receiving a coin, wherein in a receiving position, the receiving region is accessible to a coin which can be inserted through the insertion slot, and the insertion slot can be closed off by means of rotation of the drum. The drum having the receiving region is covered by a flap which can be opened in a controlled fashion in an ejection position for ejecting foreign material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Applicant: Walter Hanke Mechanische Werkstatten GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Christian Trenner, Andreas Fresenborg
  • Publication number: 20100234985
    Abstract: Replenishing coins in a coin store associated with a coin handling device includes feeding a batch of coins from a bulk coin store to a receptacle near the coin handling device, delivering coins from the receptacle to the coin handling device and routing at least some of those coins from the coin handling device to the coin store associated with the coin handling device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2007
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Applicant: MEI, Inc
    Inventors: Thomas E. Shuren, Neil M. Young, Andrew M. Yellop, David Michael Furneaux, Karen Aurelius
  • Publication number: 20100190427
    Abstract: A coin apparatus (100) includes a central housing (102) with a coin holding interior (104). An upper funnel/distributor section (114) facilitates removal of excess coins when said interior is being filled with a predetermined number of coins. The coin apparatus (100) also includes coinage selectors (121), each having an allocation slot (122). Extending inwardly towards the center of the allocation slot (122) is a resilient arm (124) having a button (126) at the end thereof Each button (126) has an inner edge (127) which is capable of securely abutting edges (128) of one or more of the coins (126) when forces are exerted by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2010
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Inventor: Norman R. BYRNE
  • Publication number: 20100136894
    Abstract: A coin storage device, which can be inserted in a coin testing device or in a cash register system, is described. The coin storage device comprises at least two opposing walls, wherein between the walls a shaft having a width is configured, and a track disposed in the shaft is provided. Of the two opposing walls, at least one is at least partially displaceable, and the width of the shaft can thus be varied. The track is arranged displaceably, and at least one retaining rail is provided, wherein the retaining rail is displaceably disposed above the track in the shaft. Such a coin storage device can be used to sort out foreign objects based on gravity. A coin storage device is possible for a coin testing device, and congestion by coins or foreign objects can be eliminated due to the variable width of the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2008
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: Walter Hanke Mechanische Werkstatten GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Roland Griese, Christian Trenner
  • Publication number: 20100062700
    Abstract: A coin depositing and dispensing machine prevents a foreign object mixed together with coins put in a coin receiving port from causing a malfunction, facilitates distinguishing coins of a depositing and transporting system from coins of a dispensing and transporting system, and facilitates removal of a coin jam. Coins received from a coin receiving port are fed separately by a feeding unit to a depositing and transporting unit. A rotary disc rotated at a position tilted at a predetermined angle is used for the feeding unit. By using the rotary disc, only coins are fed to the depositing and transporting unit, and foreign objects are eliminated. The depositing and transporting unit and a dispensing and transporting unit are arranged opposite to each other in a machine body, and the depositing and transporting unit is tilted together with the rotary disc. Coins in each unit are thereby easily distinguished from each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2007
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: Glory Ltd.
    Inventors: Keisuke Nakazumi, Eisei Nishida, Takushi Ohno, Masashi Ito
  • Publication number: 20090286458
    Abstract: An apparatus to locate a coin comprises a rotary platform configured to hold the coin and a plurality of coin contacting mechanisms, coupled to the rotary platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2009
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Applicant: COINSECURE, INC.
    Inventor: Richard M. Haddock
  • Publication number: 20090215374
    Abstract: A device for intermediate storage, collection and dispensing of coins contains at least one magazine for controlled reception, intermediate storage and controlled return of the coins and also an overflow for dispensing coins when the magazine is filled into a collection container. Furthermore, an additional storage space is provided for controlled reception of coins inserted during an insertion process, alternatively to reception in the magazine, and for controlled dispensing of the received coins of the one insertion process either to a return device or into the collection container. Preferably the coins are conducted, during disturbance-free operation, into the magazine and, upon a disruption in the magazine, into the storage space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2006
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Franz Wingerter
  • Patent number: 7427230
    Abstract: A resilient pad for a disc-type coin processing machine is provided with a first portion with a property having a first value and a second portion with the property having a second value, wherein the first value of the property is different than the second value of the property. The property may include, for example, stiffness or coefficient of friction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: Cummins-Allison Corp.
    Inventors: John R. Blake, David J. Wendell
  • Patent number: 7192341
    Abstract: A vibrating conveyor 1 for conveying coins using vibration, comprising: a conveyor plate 11 to be loaded with coins to convey the coins loaded thereon by relatively moving the coins; vibration generator means 20 for vibrating the conveyor plate 11; or the vibrating conveyor 1 further comprising a coin storage section 13 disposed around the conveyor plate 11 for storing the coins to be conveyed in conjunction with the conveyor plate 11, wherein the boundary between the conveyor plate 11 and the coin storage section 13 is formed in a wave shape of a specified period. The vibrating conveyor can handle a large amount of coins with a simple design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: Takamisawa Cybernetics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kaihei Takamisawa, Katsuyuki Hinata
  • Patent number: 7113929
    Abstract: The present invention allows verification of a voucher or token prior to redemption. The voucher or token has a code associated therewith so that a value of the voucher or token may be stored in a database. Later when the voucher or token is presented to a cashier for redemption, the code is submitted to the database in order to retrieve the value associated with that voucher or token. In this way, the voucher or token is verified before redemption. In one embodiment, a verification system includes a voucher or token database, a recognition subsystem and two transceivers. The database knows the code and value associated with the voucher or token. A recognition subsystem reads the code from the voucher or token. The transceivers couple together the database and the recognition subsystem in such a way that the a query can be made by the recognition system to determine the value associated with the code or otherwise verify the validity of the voucher or token.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Coinstar, Inc.
    Inventors: Kirk Beach, Christopher A. Pesch
  • Patent number: 6966828
    Abstract: A first embodiment of a money tube includes a centrally divided tube body having a first end, a second end, and a central portion. The tube body is composed of a first body portion and a second body portion. The first body portion includes the first end and defines a first central connector. The second body portion includes a second end and defines a second central connector. The first and second central connectors engage each other at the tube body central portion when connected to each other to hold the first body portion and the second body portion together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: Fire King International, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Smith, Richard Thurman, Richard R. Cornell, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6852022
    Abstract: A gaming machine comprises a cabinet, a coin outlet for dispensing coins, and a coin tray beneath the coin outlet. The coin tray is located a sufficient vertical distance from the coin outlet so as to accommodate a traditional coin collection cup between the coin outlet and the coin tray. The coin tray may contain a beverage cup holder and/or an ash tray, preferably located horizontally away from the coin outlet. The coin tray is coupled to the cabinet and extends below a level of the bottom of the cabinet. When the gaming machine sits on a stand in a gaming establishment, the cabinet sits on top of the stand while the coin tray hangs over a front wall of the stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: WMS Gaming Inc.
    Inventors: Louis J. Nicastro, Wayne H. Rothschild, Norman R. Wurz
  • Patent number: 6821199
    Abstract: A bulk vending machine with a rigid base supporting a case with a merchandise storage container thereon, wherein the base, and any coin tray therein, incorporate a substantially maximized coin receiving footprint, with or without coin tray, while applying an assembly securing force at the center of a top cover on the container and rearwardly of the center of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Inventor: Richard K. Bolen
  • Patent number: 6709324
    Abstract: An adjustable escalator device is provided in a gaming terminal for receiving singulated coins from a gaming terminal output hopper and outputting coins at a higher level. The escalator can be adjusted to define a coin path of adjustable width and/or adjustable thickness and accommodate a range of coin or token sizes. In one aspect, a leaf spring or other flexible member can be moved to define a curved coin path portion with adjustable width and a preferably contiguous rail can be laterally transposed to adjust a width of a second portion of the coin path. Coin path thickness can be adjusted using different rail thicknesses, using shims and/or using screw adjustments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventor: John Leagh Beadell
  • Publication number: 20030224716
    Abstract: A slot machine coin bag with an outer rim and means for closing the outer rim is sized to fit the interior of a slot machine coin tray. As a gambling patron plays, coins land in the bag and when finished, the patron closes the bag, securing the coins therein, picks up the bag with his winnings and moves to the next machine. The bag is placed in the tray, opened, and the process repeated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventors: Christine Angela Manfre-Mooney, David James Palmieri
  • Patent number: 6656033
    Abstract: A coin dispensing apparatus includes a first coin storage member with a coin dispensing unit operatively connected for dispensing coins. A second coin storage member is connected to the first coin storage member for receiving an overflow of coins. A coin transporter unit is operatively mounted in the second coin storage member to receive coins from a bottom surface below the first coin storage member and to translate the coins to a coin guide member that operatively lifts the coins back to re-charge the first coin storage member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Asahi Seiko Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Abe, Masayoshi Umeda
  • Publication number: 20030190882
    Abstract: A coin input apparatus for a coin processing device comprises a coin tray pivotally coupled to the device for feeding coins into the device and a coin chute for guiding coins from the coin tray into the device. The coin tray has a corrugated surface. The coin chute has a corrugated surface for mating with the corrugated surface of the coin tray for minimizing a gap between the coin tray and the coin chute.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Inventors: John R. Blake, John H. Kutsch
  • Publication number: 20030190881
    Abstract: An improved coin routing plate made from a solid piece of resilient and rigid material that incorporates a slot in the coin channel that allows access to any coins that are in the plate and also allows coin dust and debris to escape thereby resulting in less jams and expedites the un-jamming process without removing any parts from the hopper mechanism. Constructed in such a manner as to make it highly resistant to bending and warping thereby having the economic advantage of less replacement and less down time to un-jam and maintain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Inventors: Brian L. Gailey, Stephen D. DeVaney
  • Publication number: 20030124967
    Abstract: A gaming machine comprises a cabinet, a coin outlet for dispensing coins, and a coin tray beneath the coin outlet. The coin tray is located a sufficient vertical distance from the coin outlet so as to accommodate a traditional coin collection cup between the coin outlet and the coin tray. The coin tray may contain a beverage cup holder and/or an ash tray, preferably located horizontally away from the coin outlet. The coin tray is coupled to the cabinet and extends below a level of the bottom of the cabinet. When the gaming machine sits on a stand in a gaming establishment, the cabinet sits on top of the stand while the coin tray hangs over,a front wall of the stand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventors: Wayne H. Rothschild, Norman R. Wurz
  • Publication number: 20030064674
    Abstract: An improved gaming device is set forth having a removable coin and token tray. The tray has rearwardly extending pins and a latch assembly. The device includes a receiver assembly having bores and slots to receive the pins and register with the latch assembly to releasably mount the tray to the device. A lever located in the device when the device is closed and secured manipulates the latch assembly. To release the tray access is required to the interior of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Inventor: Michael O. Parham
  • Publication number: 20030062244
    Abstract: A bulk vending machine with a rigid base supporting a case with a merchandise storage container thereon, wherein upstanding supports on the base are provided with resting surface to support the case and container in a secure resting condition thereby providing access to the base and any coin tray therein and to permit easy coin removal, and incorporating a substantially maximized coin tray footprint, while applying an assembly securing force at the center of a top cover on the container and rearwardly of the center of the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Inventor: Richard K. Bolen
  • Publication number: 20030032388
    Abstract: A coin collection system for a gaming machine comprises a coin outlet for dispensing coins and a coin tray beneath the coin outlet. In one aspect of the invention, a movable member is coupled to the gaming machine and is operable to assist in guiding the dispensed coins from one of the coin outlet and the coin tray to a coin collection cup. In another aspect, a guiding member is positioned proximate to the coin outlet and is operable to divert the dispensed coins away from the coin tray and into a coin collection cup. In a further aspect, a mechanical element holds a coin collection cup in front of the coin tray so that the coins dispensed into the coin tray can be scooped into the held coin collection cup. In yet another aspect, the coin collection cup itself is sized to fit within the coin tray.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2001
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Inventors: James M. Rasmussen, Wayne H. Rothschild
  • Publication number: 20020061726
    Abstract: A new and improved coin scoop for slot machines is disclosed, including an open end, a closed end, a handle, and nesting points. The scoop allows the easy removal of coins from the slot machine tray or other currency machine. The scoops are made of a lightweight material and are stackable for easy display and storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Publication date: May 23, 2002
    Applicant: Slot Scoops, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Brzezinski, Charles A. Knott
  • Patent number: 6371845
    Abstract: The number of coins stored in a coin tube is retained in RAM 13 which is backed up by a battery, the states of empty switch 22 and full coin switch 23 and the type of cassette tube to be detected by cassette detection sensor 21 are retained in the battery-backup RAM 13, and when the power supply is intercepted and turned on again, the states of the empty switch 22 and the full coin switch 23 and the type of cassette tube detected by the cassette detection sensor 21 which are stored in the battery-backup RAM 13 are compared with their current states, and if any of them does not agree, the number of coins retained in the RAM 13 is initialized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Nippon Conlux
    Inventors: Takeshi Ishida, Jun Yamada
  • Patent number: 6200213
    Abstract: An improved apparatus and method for the delivery, holding, storage, and dispensing of coins, and the like, from coin-operated gaming machines, such as “slot” machines, or the like, into which coins are deposited and, when an award is indicated, coins are dispensed as part of, or all, of the award or prize, is disclosed. After depositing coins in the coin slot of the gaming machine, the coins are typically passed through a coin-counting and delivery mechanism then deposited into one or more coin hoppers located in the front or the rear, or the top or bottom, or to the left or right of the coin counting and moving mechanism in the slot machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Inventor: Joseph Cole
  • Patent number: 6179704
    Abstract: A coin dispensing apparatus having a storage member for holding bulk coins that are introduced through an opening of the top of a storage member as provided with a detector assembly to determine any intrusion into the storage member. Detector assembly can create a grid pattern of radiation, such as light or infrared light that can be monitored by a computer system to determine if the object intruding into the storage base warrants the activation of an alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Asahi Seiko Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazumi Suzuki
  • Patent number: 6174230
    Abstract: A coin conditioner is provided for cleaning or otherwise conditioning coins in a coin discriminator apparatus prior to transfer to a coin sensor. Coins enter through a feed tray and move down the length of a perforated tumbler, preferably without the use of gravity, such as under screw force, mechanical or centrifuigal force. The spinning tumbler is preferably rotated about its longitudinal axis by a motor. In one embodiment, a blower or vacuum draws or moves air from one area to another, with the air preferably being filtered. As coins move through and down a tumbler, projections such as vanes, fins, ridges, dimples, spines or other raised features cause mechanical agitation and/or abrasion as coins are lifted and dropped while passing longitudinally through the tumbler. The coins are conditioned and non-coin matter is collected as it is separated and/or abraded from the coin surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: Coinstar, Inc.
    Inventors: Dan Gerrity, Aaron Finch, Chris Ferguson, Scott Scherer, Rick Riday, Larry D. Cannon
  • Patent number: 6139420
    Abstract: A fill bag holder and method for holding a fill bag within the body (interior) of a slot machine. In the preferred embodiment, the fill bag rests on a bag support and the bag support is supported by a support bracket. The support bracket can be further braced by an angle support. The fill bag holder is attached to the interior of the slot machine. The fill bag holder holds a fill bag above the coin hopper of the slot machine to facilitate quicker refilling of the coin hopper during play.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Inventor: Colin F. Sweeney
  • Patent number: 6131625
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a clamping device for a coin bag that receives coins from a coin exit region of a coin processing machine. The clamping device includes a mounting structure that is located at the coin exit region. The mounting structure has first and second outer surfaces that are generally angled with respect to a vertical line. A holder member movably mounted with respect to the mounting structure between an opened position and a closed position. The holder member has first and second inner surfaces generally opposing the outer surfaces of the mounting structure when the holder member is in the closed position. A bag receiving region is defined between the first inner and outer surfaces and between the second inner and outer surfaces. The bag receiving region decreases in size when the holder member is moved from the opened position to the closed position where the bag is clamped tightly between the inner and outer surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: Cummins-Allison Corporation
    Inventors: Scott D. Casanova, Bogdan Kowalczyk, John C. Peklo, John S. Staszczak, Joseph J. Geib
  • Patent number: 6093094
    Abstract: A coin feed control apparatus includes a hopper (20) having a discharge opening (17) that is disposed above a rotating disc (10) of a coin handling machine. The discharge opening (17) is positioned over a coin receiving region (14) of the disc. A coin feed control member (30) is mounted for pivotal movement to further open or further close the discharge opening (17). The feed control member (30), the discharge opening (17) and the coin receiving region (14) are sized such that the feed control member (30) will tend to move to partially close the discharge opening (17) in response to a build-up of coins in the coin receiving region, and thereby limit the flow of coins through the discharge opening (17), and such that the reduction of coins in the coin receiving region (14) will allow the feed control member (30) to drop and further open the discharge opening (17) to allow a greater flow of coins into the coin receiving region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Assignee: De La Rue Systems Americas Corporation
    Inventors: Richard P. Uecker, Joseph P. Hanus
  • Patent number: 6033004
    Abstract: A console particularly for a motor vehicle includes several coin receiving recesses. Each recess is formed to include a generally arcuate lower surface and first and second spaced apart side surfaces. One of the first and second spaced apart side surface is formed to integrally include a coin retention member. The coin retention member is adapted to engage a coin and bias the coin against the opposite side to thereby prevent rattling during vehicle use. In the preferred embodiment, the recesses, including their associated coin retention members, are integrally formed with the console through an injection molded process. One suitable material for the console is polypropylene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: Chrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Andrea L. Stryker, L. John Ozark
  • Patent number: 6004200
    Abstract: A coin bag spout assembly (25) includes a clip member (26) having an open side and a tubular spout member (27) which pivots through the open side of the clip member (26) for easy removal of filled coin bags.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Brandt, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth G. Ebenhoch, Joseph P. Hanus
  • Patent number: 5853322
    Abstract: A flat writing surface is attached to the chassis of a coin or token dispenser by a hinge or other manner of attachment in either a sloped or horizontal fashion. In a particular embodiment, the attached writing surface has a ledge at one edge to hold the item being written. A writing instrument may be optionally attached. Frequently accessed controls and serviceable components of the coin dispenser can be grouped together in an easily accessible control panel beneath the writing surface, preferentially in a recessed well, that is accessible by flipping up or lifting of the writing surface. Location beneath the writing surface keeps the controls from being accidentally or intentionally operated by an unauthorized person. The control panel is optionally locked shut, preventing the writing surface from being flipped or lifted up to expose the control panel by unauthorized individuals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1998
    Assignee: Telequip Corporation
    Inventors: Michael F. Jones, Paul O. Stump
  • Patent number: 5842916
    Abstract: A coin conditioner is provided for cleaning or otherwise conditioning coins in a coin discriminator apparatus prior to transfer to a coin sensor. Coins enter through a feed tray and move down the length of a perforated tumbler, preferably without the use of gravity, such as under screw force, mechanical or centrifugal force. The spinning tumbler is preferably rotated about its longitudinal axis by a motor. In one embodiment, a blower or vacuum draws or moves air from one area to another, with the air preferably being filtered. As coins move through and down a tumbler, projections such as vanes, fins, ridges, dimples, spines or other raised features cause mechanical agitation and/or abrasion as coins are lifted and dropped while passing longitudinally through the tumbler. The coins are conditioned and non-coin matter is collected as it is separated and/or abraded from the coin surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Assignee: Coinstar, Inc.
    Inventors: Dan Gerrity, Thomas Hintz, Aaron Finch, Chris Ferguson, Scott Scherer, Rick Riday, Mark Shannon, Larry D. Cannon
  • Patent number: 5830056
    Abstract: A bagging spout for a coin handling machine has an inclined chute extending between an upper inlet and a lower outlet. A spreader plate extends downwardly adjacent the outlet. A clamp member is hinged to the top of the spout adjacent the inlet. The clamp member has spaced ears that engage the outside of parallel side portions of the chute to pinch a coin bag between the ears and the chute.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Brandt, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas P. Adams, Cory A. Kohls, Joseph P. Hanus, Myron W. Spoehr
  • Patent number: 5554070
    Abstract: A coin game machine island and a coin treating device for use with the coin game machine island is provided, wherein coins as game media can be washed inside the island so that no coin washing equipment needs to be provided outside the island, thereby making it possible not only to restrict the increase in space but also reduce the costs. A coin circulating path is constituted by a distribution conveyer extending at the upper portion of the island, overflow passageways extending downwardly from the outlet end of the distribution conveyer and respective coin game machines, a recovering conveyer extending at the lower portion of the island for connecting the respective overflow passageways, a coin tank placed at the outlet end of the recovering conveyer and a lifter device lifting coins inside the tank to the inlet end of the distribution conveyer. A coin treating device is provided along the length of the coin circulating path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1996
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Ace Denken
    Inventors: Takemoto Takatoshi, Kawashima Kazunari
  • Patent number: 5443419
    Abstract: A coin handling machine such as a coin sorter has a plurality of collectors in the form of drawers or chutes arranged in a circular array and each adapted to receive coins of a particular denomination through its open top. A switch and switch actuator plate are mounted in the center of the array. A spring-loaded pivot lever extends radially from the plate to each collector location. The plate is normally held in a neutral position but will be moved to actuate the switch when any one of the levers is released. The levers are normally held against release by the presence of a collector at each station. Actuation of the switch will disable the operation of the machine. The machine may be mounted on a platform of a stand to which bagging spouts are removably attached beneath the chutes. The spouts are incapable of removal when the machine is in place on the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1995
    Assignee: Brandt, Inc
    Inventors: Thomas P. Adams, Joseph P. Hanus, Kenneth G. Ebenhoch, Roger Klemp
  • Patent number: 5429551
    Abstract: A coin handling machine has an opening in the top of its housing that is normally closed by an inspection pan. The inspection pan is mounted to the housing so that it can be pivoted across the top to expose the opening and tipped to empty the contents of the pan out an exit at a corner of the pan and into the exposed opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 4, 1995
    Assignee: Brandt, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard P. Uecker, Robert J. Wagner, Thomas P. Adams
  • Patent number: 5429362
    Abstract: This invention enables coins, discharged from a discharge outlet after inserting a paper money, to be received effectively by a paper cup taken out from the storage portion without touching coins by hands. A coin dispenser for a slot machine which enables discharging desired number of coins from a discharge outlet 2 after inserting paper money into a paper money inlet 1. A supporting plate 4 is provided under an outlet 3a of a tray 3 located beneath said discharge outlet 2. A storage portion 5 which enables storage of many paper cups A is provided in a housing. The coins are enabled to discharge after the cup A is set on the supporting plate 4, furthermore the paper cup A can be manually or automatically moved from the storage portion 5 to the supporting plate 4. The outlet 3a of the tray 3 is freely opened and shut by lever operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 4, 1995
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Ace Denken
    Inventors: Takatoshi Takemoto, Kazunari Kawashima
  • Patent number: 5387152
    Abstract: A coin deposit apparatus arranged for mounting onto a coin receiving plate of a slot machine includes a housing, having a semi-cylindrical lower magazine arranged to accommodate a row of coins thereon, with a semi-cylindrical lid mounted upon the coins to enclose the coins, with the lid projecting beyond a forward end of the lower magazine for mounting upon the coin receiving plate of the slot machine. A piston cooperates with a trigger member to project the piston into engagement with the coins and direct the coins forwardly through spaced springs for projection into the coin receiving plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 7, 1995
    Inventors: Ervin E. Packer, Beverly A. Diener-Packer
  • Patent number: 5238446
    Abstract: Coins corresponding to a payment, thrown into a hopper, fall on a recessed disk and each lodge in one of the recesses. If two coins are superposed in one recess, the upper coin is deflected outwardly by a slot and then raised by the inclined bottom of this slot to finally be ejected from the recess. The coins are then, as a function of the result of a detection, oriented toward one or the other of two compartments of an annular display which surrounds the separation disk. At the end of each payment, the annular display turns a fraction of a turn to bring the two compartments into a presentation position, while two empty compartments are presented to receive the following payment, and the coins corresponding to the preceding payment arrive at a transmission position for example toward collection boxes. The drive of the movable portion of the display is effected by its radially outer edge. The central portion comprising the separator disk and its drive motor can swing downwardly to eject foreign bodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1993
    Assignee: Atoll Technology
    Inventors: Son le Hong, Claude Rigolet
  • Patent number: 5181882
    Abstract: A coin return control system for vending machines is disclosed which includes a predetermined coin denomination detecting portion for detecting the coin denomination predetermined by a coin denomination predetermination switch every time change may have to be paid out by the vending machine. A memory memorizes the coin denomination detected by the coin denomination detecting portion immediately after operating an inventory switch which is a switch other than the coin denomination predetermination switch. A variation detecting portion detects the variation of the coin denomination predetermined by the coin denomination predetermination switch based on the coin denomination detected by the predetermined coin denomination detecting portion and the coin denomination memorized by the memory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1993
    Assignee: Sanden Corporation
    Inventor: Tadashi Miyazawa
  • Patent number: 5021027
    Abstract: A coin counter comprises a longitudinal tubular member or a cylinder of a semicircular cross section and has a large longitudinal slot directed from the top opening to a closed bottom surface. The cylindrical member has graduations on the side thereof indicative of the height of various stacks of coins. One uses the member to scoop up similar coins and to capture the same inside the confines of the member whereby the graduations on the surface of the member define the exact height of a stack of coins and therefore the exact amount of a stack of coins. The device can further be used to assist in wrapping coins of the same denominations after being gathered by the coin counter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1991
    Inventor: John D. Bremer
  • Patent number: 5016397
    Abstract: An apparatus for removing wrappers from coin rolls comprises a cascade type vibrating feeder bowl for aligning wrapped coin rolls and feeding them serially to the upper end of a coin roll chute that slopes downwardly to a lower end. A pair of contra-rotatable abrasive discs overlie and partially straddle the chute at a predetermined location along its length and a vibrating separator for separating loose coins from their torn wrappers underlies the lower end of the chute. In use, wrapped coin rolls are fed to the chute and are directed thereby to the abrasive discs. The abrasive discs, then, bear against the rolls within the chute to tear away their paper wrappers whereupon the resulting loose coins and torn wrappers fall into the separator where the coins are separated from their torn wrappers for collection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1991
    Inventor: Daryle Higginbotham