Abstract: A device and method for separating tickets from a roll of raffle tickets having two or more strands, the individual tickets being transversely joined to twin tickets having corresponding identical identifiers. The strands are separated longitudinally into individual strands and at least one strand, the seller's tickets, is further separated transversely into individual tickets for use in a hopper to draw a winning ticket.

Abstract: A ticket dispensing device having a braking system for preventing unauthorized removal of tickets. A drive roller advancing the ticket strip through the device is connected to a brake wheel. Pulling on the ticket moves the brake wheel into a braking member to impede the rotation of the drive roller, and thereby prevent removal of tickets. The ticket dispensing device also includes a face plate which can be easily and quickly removed to eliminate ticket jams.

Abstract: A system and method for distributing lottery tickets includes a large number of remote, ticket-dispensing units which are connected intermittently, e.g., once each day or week to a central computer. The units record the numbers of tickets sold and transmit the sales data to the central computer, which in turn performs all the necessary accounting functions. Sales reports and invoice data may be sent by the central computer to each unit for printing, which avoids the need to mail the reports/invoices. The tickets are stored in fan-fold form and are burst, rather than cut, apart for dispensing. The tickets are dispensed at one end of the unit which faces the customer. A control panel for the vendor is located at the opposite end. Tickets of different length may be dispensed with an imprint of the vendor's name.