Abstract: An electronic token system including a token receptacle and a portable token. The token receptacle includes a receptacle body with an outer surface having a first, generally planar array of electrical contacts, which are arranged in a dense-packed configuration that minimizes the surface area occupied by the planar array, consistent with sufficient electrical separation between adjacent contacts. The token receptacle also includes a first alignment feature and a first retention feature. The portable token includes an enclosure for enclosing at least a portion of the receptacle body, the enclosure having a second alignment feature for mating engagement with the first alignment feature and a second retention feature for holding the portable token in removable connection with the first retention feature. The token also includes a second, generally planar array of electrical contacts for electrical communication with the corresponding electrical contacts of the first planar array mounted in the token receptacle.

Abstract: An electronic token system including a token receptacle and a portable token. The token receptacle includes a receptacle body with an outer surface having a first, generally planar array of electrical contacts, which are arranged in a dense-packed configuration that minimizes the surface area occupied by the planar array, consistent with sufficient electrical separation between adjacent contacts. The token receptacle also includes a first alignment feature and a first retention feature. The portable token includes an enclosure for enclosing at least a portion of the receptacle body, the enclosure having a second alignment feature for mating engagement with the first alignment feature and a second retention feature for holding the portable token in removable connection with the first retention feature. The token also includes a second, generally planar array of electrical contacts for electrical communication with the corresponding electrical contacts of the first planar array mounted in the token receptacle.

Abstract: An electronic token system includes a token receptacle, having a housing with a receiver channel, and a token for insertion in the receiver channel on an insertion path defined by one or more receiver-channel guide surfaces. The token includes a data exchange circuit and a plurality of electrical contacts in a planar array exposed on a contact surface of the token in electrical coupling with the data exchange circuit. A plurality of spring-loaded probe contacts are mounted in the token receptacle, the probe contacts each having a plunger movable by spring action in a direction generally orthogonal to the planar array of electrical contacts on an inserted token and having a contact tip for receipt at a corresponding one of the electrical contacts in the planar array. A stop is provided on the token for contacting a travel limiter on the token receptacle, the stop and travel limiter being configured to define full insertion of the token into the receiver channel.