Abstract: A coin operated vending machine has a pair of spaced conductors mounted on a coin chute and in position to be bridged by any electrically conductive liquid squirted into the coin slot. Bridging of the conductors by the liquid completes a circuit which disconnects vending circuitry from its power source. The spaced conductors are mounted on a non-conductive support which prevents a coin itself from contacting and bridging the conductors.

Abstract: An electrically operated control circuit for a multiple selection vending machine with lockout circuits to isolate mal-functioning sections, thereby enabling continued vending machine operations via the remaining functional sections. The lockout circuitry is particularly directed toward sensing and compensating for jammed conditions in the product dispensing mechanisms using a minimal amount of additional circuit elements over non-protected counterpart machines. The malfunction lockout circuitry includes a motor-cam driven embodiment, and a unique thermally sensitive motor thermostat actuated embodiment.

Abstract: The evaporator coil of an ice bank type of beverage cooler and dispenser is provided with a multiplicity of spaced apart copper rods extending both inwardly and outwardly of the coil. The evaporator is operated in a tank of water to form a body of ice on the coil and a beverage conduit is cooled by the water. The water gives up its heat in melting the ice. The rods cause the body of ice to have separate and spaced projections of ice extending therefrom to present more surface to the water for more efficient cooling, particularly during peak loads.