Abstract: A computerized parking meter uses an ultrasonic transducer to precisely measure the distance to a parked vehicle and to reset the parking meter to zero when the vehicle leaves. The computerized parking meter utilizes low power and may be recharged by solar power. The computerized parking meter can be programmed with differing rates, calendar days, advertising and alarms. Unlocking the coin box requires both the proper computer code and a key. When the computerized parking meter receives the proper computer code a solenoid is activated which retracts a plunger allowing the key to unlock the coin box. A coin discriminator allows only proper coins to be inserted into the meter. Audible messages and alarms can be sounded and written messages displayed. A portable terminal can communicate with a central computer to enhance collections security and identify repeat parking violators.

Abstract: A coin-operated ticket dispenser mechanism is of the type having a plurality of coin-activated slide units arranged in side by side relation and are slidable in unison through guide slots formed in the housing for the dispenser mechanism with a slide member on each unit reciprocal between a first extended position and a second retracted position when a series of coins are deposited in the slide members. A rigid connecting bar serves to interconnect the slide members to cause the members to move only in unison between the first and second positions, and a roller member at one end of the rigid connecting bar moves into engagement with a release member on the dispenser mechanism so as to activate the mechanism only in response to movement of the slide members over a preselected distance to the first extended position so as to indicate that the proper number and denomination of coins have been deposited.