Abstract: A coin operated timing mechanism for a parking meter and the like including a time display, a microprocessor for controlling the setting and operation of the display, a battery or similar self-contained power source, and a power regulation sub-system designed to minimize power consumption during operation of the mechanism. The power regulation system provides, on demand, voltage of either 3.5 or 5 volts. The higher power consumption 5-volt supply is available when necessary for short periods to read a NOVRAM device which stores operational parameters. The 3.5 volt mode is used during normal coin handling and timekeeping and during periods of communication wiht the microprocessor for changing the operating parameters or for auditing of the system. The mechanism includes coin actuated switches which are adjustable to insure most efficient operation including screening of spurious coins.

Abstract: A token receiving chute for use in a token operated device is disclosed. The chute is designed so that a token inserted therein will fall toward an appropriate location due to the force of gravity. In order to decrease the kinetic energy imparted to the falling token, and thereby increase the accuracy of various coin sensing devices to be subsequently employed, an inclined wall section is provided for imparting lateral momentum to the falling token causing it to bounce back and forth between the side walls.

Abstract: An improved magnetic field sensor for detecting tokens is disclosed which has one Hall effect sensor located between a magnet and an inclined token track base and another Hall effect sensor located between another magnet and the inclined token track base. The Hall effect sensors are placed at distances above the inclined token track base which optimize their accuracy in detecting tokens which have two concentric regions with different magnet characteristics.

Abstract: A coin operated timing mechanism for a parking meter and the like including a time display, a microprocessor for controlling the setting and operation of the display, a battery or similar self-contained power source, and a power regulation sub-system designed to minimize power consumption during operation of the mechanism. The power regulation system provides, on demand, voltage of either 3.5 or 5 volts. The highest power consumption 5-volt supply is available when necessary for short periods to read a NOVRAM device which stores operational parameters. The 3.5 volt mode is used during normal coin handling and timekeeping and during periods of communication with the microprocessor for changing the operating parameters or for auditing of the system. The mechanism includes coin actuated switches which are adjustable to insure most efficient operation including screening of spurious coins.

Abstract: A low power device for sorting tokens as part of a coin-operated meter is disclosed. The device sorts a token while it is falling under the influence of gravity and assures that a movable gate, which directs the token to one of two paths, is in the proper position before the token reaches the gate. Power to move the gate is used only when the position of the gate is to be changed.

Abstract: A meter apparatus wherein time is purchased upon deposit of a coin or the like for setting of a clock mechanism. A parking meter may be involved, and a rotatable handle is provided for operating a drive shaft connected between the clock mechanism and handle. A clutch is interposed between the handle and drive shaft with the clutch including a pin or other releasable element engaging both the shaft and handle. A spring force is applied to the pin so that normal rotation of the handle will operate the drive shaft. Excessive force will release the pin in opposition to the spring so that damage will not occur even upon continued rotation of the handle. The pin and handle are ordinarily reset in a proper starting position so that the next operation of the meter will proceed in correct fashion.

Abstract: A coin acceptance shuttle for electronic parking meters adapted to receive coins, one at a time, from a predetermined family of permitted coins and to laterally transport such coins to the channel inlet of the electronic coin acceptance apparatus. The shuttle includes a manually operated plunger having a coin recess therein defined between the body of the plunger and a pivotally mounted gate. Coins enter the recess through a replaceable housing slot member selected in accordance with the family of coins to be used. The gate member pivots to facilitate full and proper coin exit from the shuttle plunger in the event of a coin jam or the premature return travel of the plunger. The gate includes an offset pivot axis and opposed coin stop bosses whereby the gate may be installed in alternative orientations according to the preselected family of coins to be used.

Abstract: This invention is a method and apparatus for alternately transferring energy between two objects suspended from a common swiveled point. The first of the objects is put into motion in a circular fashion about the second object which is in a stationary condition. Ultimately, energy is transferred from the first object to the second object, causing the second object to follow the first object in a circular manner. The resulting transfer of energy slowly brings the first object to a stationary condition and moves the second object in a circular motion. A transfer of energy then continues between the first and second objects in the aforementioned manner. Swings containing humans also transfer energy from one swing to another as characterized by this invention. The invention is further characterized by means for changing the position of the common meeting point of the suspension lines from each object.