Abstract: A coin diameter discriminating device wherein a coin is received in a coin transport mechanism which is rotated by a motor at an accurately controlled angular velocity. By such arrangement, the coin is carried along a predetermined path at an accurately controlled or regulated velocity past at least one optical sensor that provides a change of state output upon detecting an edge of the coin. The sensor is arranged to start a time counter that is stopped by a predetermined reference event such as the coin transport mechanism having rotated to a predetermined angular orientation. The time count in the counter therefore corresponds to the angular orientation of the coin transport mechanism at the time of detecting the coin edge, which also accurately corresponds to the diameter of the coin. The time count is then compared to corresponding time count ranges each of which relates to known standards of an acceptable coin denomination.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for discriminating and collecting coins wherein an inserted coin is received in a notch of a rotary disk. Upon sensing the insertion of a coin into the notch, a motor rotates the disk through a predetermined arc to a predetermined angular orientation where a decision is made whether to accept or reject the coin based on coin characteristics such as the sensed diameter of the coin and metal content. If the coin is accepted, the disk is rotated to an angular orientation where the coin falls from the notch into a coin collection box. However, if the coin is rejected, the disk is rotated in the opposite direction to an angular orientation where the coin falls into a coin return chute. Sensors are also provided to sense the presence of the coin in the notch on the way back to the initial angular orientation. If the coin failed to fall out for any reason, another attempt is made to collect the coin.

Abstract: One or more sets of auxiliary contacts are contained within a cartridge which mounts to the side of an electromagnetic contactor. The cartridge snaps into position and is firmly supported at each of its ends. A cam member slidably mounts to the cartridge and couples to the contactor actuator. It includes a sloping cam surface which engages a cam follower pivotally mounted within the cartridge and translates the sliding motion of the contactor actuator into a pivotal motion which operates the auxiliary contacts.

Abstract: An n-phase electronically commutated motor has a stator with n angularly displaced phase windings, each of which comprises a pair of power windings, and each power winding is connected in series with a transistor power switch across an electric power source so that the power windings of each phase generate magnetic fluxes in opposite directions and operate in push-pull. A capacitive rotor sensor coupled to the motor rotor derives n-phase square wave rotor position signals displaced 360/n degrees apart at a frequency proportional to rotor speed and n sets of logic gates receive the rotor position signals and control the conduction interval of the power transistors. The logic gates are opened during rotor position signals which energize the power switches in a sequence that generates a rotating magnetic field within the stator.