Abstract: A locking mechanism to secure a coin operated vending machine includes an elongate locking bar insertable into a housing of the vending machine to secure closed a door hingedly mounted to the housing. A pair of metal loops integral with the door, and a pair of cover plates integral with the housing, are aligned to simultaneously contain the locking bar when the door is closed. A key-operated lock cylinder, mounted in recessed fashion inside the housing, supports a latch for pivotal movement toward and away from a latching position, wherein the latch enters a slot formed in the locking bar to keep the locking bar in its locking position. A reinforcing plate, with a keyway and a larger opening to permit insertion of the locking bar, protects the locking mechanism against tampering to discourage unauthorized entry into the vending machine.

Abstract: A tamper-resistant housing for padlocked vending equipment, wherein a plurality of formed metal loops are welded to the interior housing in an alignment for containing a slide-bar mounted through slots in the exterior of the housing. The housing is partially recessed interiorly so as to shelter the lock containing end of the slide bar and the related padlock. Additional housing support is obtained via strength enhancing ribs formed in the back thereof.