Abstract: A device for sensing predetermined characteristics of an object such as a coin or a token in order to determine its validity or genuineness and in some cases its denomination, the device including a combination of optical and electromagnetic sensors which operate together along a coin path and capable to analyze the coin or token in different positions so that if there are multiple holes or rings of transparent material they can be sensed and used to determine the coin or token's validity and denomination.

Abstract: A device for sensing predetermined characteristics of an object such as a coin or a token in order to determine its validity or genuineness and in some cases its denomination, the device including a combination of optical and electromagnetic sensors which operate together along a coin path and capable to analyze the coin or token in different positions so that if there are multiple holes or rings of transparent material they can be sensed and used to determine the coin or token's validity and denomination.

Abstract: A protective system (10) for use in a vending machine (100) to protect vulnerable parts of the machine, such as the coin changer (130) selection switches, display, harnessing and the like, located below the bill validator (120), from being damaged when liquid is introduced into the bill validator by vandals. The system (10) includes a catch pan (12), attached to the vending machine (100) below the bill validator (120) and providing a reservoir having a bottom (14) and side portions (16, 18, 24 and 26) and a drainage opening (30) and a conduit (34) for carrying the liquid to a remote area.