Abstract: An electronic coin validator comprising an inductive coin sensor (10) producing a predetermined response to a valid coin and a coin equivalent circuit (18, 20) which can be switched by a switch (14, 16) into operable connection with the sensor to produce an effect on the coin sensor similar to that of a coin but with the coin absent, and a comparator (26) for comparing the two sensor responses. The arrangement has the advantage of ensuring stability against temperature drift, small mechanical changes, aging and the like, because these disturbances have the same effect on both of the signals which are compared for coin validation purposes.

Abstract: A dispensing mechanism, preferably for handling coins or tokens for amusement or gaming machines comprising a selectably drivable endless loop conveyor whose path of travel includes a bight. A store for the article to be dispensed feeds said articles either onto the interior of the conveyor or the exterior thereof. The conveyor is preferably formed from a plurality of hingedly connected segments, each of which has a pick-up lip thereon provided with an upstanding stirrer. The conveyor forms part of the bottom of the store so that any supply of articles to be dispensed which are held therein are stirred as the conveyor travels through the bight, the conveyor entraining an article and dispensing it to an exit located above the bight.

Abstract: A coin validating arrangement for a coin operated machine, comprising a coin chute (5) having an upstream coil (8) for sensing a true coin and producing a Q signal output only when a true coin is properly inserted, an obturator (11) generally downstream of the true coin sensing coil, a coin acceptance coil (21) generally downstream of the obturator, and a validating circuit (41) which enables the coin acceptance coil to produce an A signal output which in turn generates an accept signal which activates the machine only when no Q signal output is being produced. In a preferred arrangement, an intermediate or zoning coil (18) produces a Z signal output as it watches the coin through the obturator from the Q coil to the A coil, and production of the accept signal is also dependent on the Z signal.

Abstract: A coin-validating arrangement including a coin guide path and a sensing coil disposed adjacent said path, the coil being part of a tuned circuit coupled into a negative feedback path of an amplifier whereby to produce a phase shift sufficient to result in positive feedback and oscillation in said amplifier in the absence of a correct coin at the region of said path adjacent said coil, the tuned circuit being so arranged that on passage of a correct coin past said region the oscillation is quenched or reduced in amplitude, a circuit being provided for detecting the quenching or amplitude reduction of said oscillation, and a threshold detector provided for responding to said detecting circuit and opening an acceptance gate for the said correct coin.

Abstract: The entry slot of a chute by which a coin (or token) is introduced into a coin-released mechanism is formed in a member depressible against a resilient bias to actuate a reject function of a coin-validating mechanism into which the coin is fed.