Abstract: A mechanical coin checking device comprises a coin channel having a running rail, a coin acceptance shaft connected to the coin channel, a blocking element which is pivoted into the coin acceptance shaft if no coin is present and which, due to the weight thereof, pivots, after entry of a coin into the acceptance shaft, releases the acceptance shaft and blocks the coin channel at the same time, a confirmation photoelectric barrier which is disposed in the acceptance channel and detects the passage of a coin, an optical sensor for detecting the position of the blocking element and a control unit connected to the confirmation photoelectric barrier and to the optical sensor, the control unit, as a function of the signals of the confirmation photoelectric barrier and of the optical sensor, producing a credit signal for acceptance of the coin falling through the acceptance shaft.

Abstract: A coin counter is provided for push-pull coin vending machines, arcade machines and pay-per-use appliances. The counter comprises a bracket assembly having first and second chambers. The first chamber for receiving, processing and expelling a coin, and the second chamber having a switch assembly which is interactive with the coins moving through the first chamber by means of an actuator arm so as to register counts on a connected numeric display. The counter further comprises a stop which receives the weight of the coins processed through the machine and also redirects the coins, allowing the actuator arm to rotate in a reduced arc than the prior art.

Abstract: A coin chute trigger assembly having separate coin paths for nickels, dimes, and quarters. Intentionally, the dime coin path is made at least twice as wide as the thickness of a dime in order to prevent hangups and jams. A trigger included in each coin path is operated in response to deposit of the appropriate coin through the coin chute or path and causes operation of an included pair of switching contacts.

Abstract: A coin chute trigger assembly having separate coin paths for nickels, dimes, and quarters. A microswitch is positioned adjacent to each coin path. A trigger included in each coin path is operated in response to deposit of the appropriate coin through the coin chute to cause operation of the included or adjacent microswitch.

Abstract: A switch assembly of a coin collector includes a switch housing provided with first and second electrical contacts therein, a movable lever mounted in the housing and movable between an open position in which the lever contacts the first contact, and a closed position in which the lever contacts the second contact, and a ring secured within an opening in the housing. A sleeve extends through and is press-fitted within the ring in such a manner that the sleeve cannot rotate in the ring. The sleeve has an end wall with a central hole which is formed therethrough and which has a circular section and a radial extension extending radially and outwardly from the periphery of the circular section. A rotating unit includes a rotating shaft journalled in the sleeve, a radially extending push plate formed integrally with the inner end portion of the shaft, and a radially extending push needle fixed on the outer end portion of the shaft.

Abstract: A coin acceptor mechanism (10) for recognizing the valid input of a coin (18) into a coin operated device wherein the mechanism (10) includes a sensor (28) which produces an electrical signal (30) indicative of the sensed presence or absence of a coin. A microprocessor (14) generates a periodic pulsed signal (46) and during a predetermined time period counts the number of pulses generated while the sensor output signal (30) indicates that a coin is present. Upon expiration of the predetermined time period, and once the sensor output signal (30) indicates the absence of a coin, pulses generated thereafter are counted. Once this count exceeds a predetermined value, a valid input is indicated if the first count also exceeded a predefined number.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for recognizing and counting coins is disclosed. In one aspect, the apparatus is battery powered and includes a magnet which moves between two positions upon a coin moving along a coin path. Movement of the magnet activates a reed switch that wakes up a microprocessor controlled circuit from a low power quiescent state. The circuit is then operable to count the coin and to then take appropriate action. In another aspect, the apparatus includes a second magnet located near the coin path and opposite a second reed switch. This magnet keeps the contacts of the reed switch closed until a ferromagnetic object passes therebetween and shunts the magnetic field away from the reed switch. A photointerrupter is used to detect U.S. coin currency and other non-ferromagnetic objects not detected via the second reed switch. Thus, the apparatus can distinguish ferromagnetic objects from U.S.

Abstract: Coin selector, which defines a route or path for the coins, along which are fitted optical and electromagnetic sensors and at least one rocker arm located towards the entrance to that route or path which is responsible for directing the coins towards the correct path. The selector also includes a mobile permanent magnet and a fixed magnetic relay close to that magnet, the magnet being fitted to the rocker arm and located towards the entrance to the path for the coins. The displacement of the rocker arm pulls the magnet, varying the action of the magnet's magnetic field on the relay. The relay is connected to a power supply circuit for the sensor, which is activated when a coin is introduced.

Abstract: An electronic parking meter system for receiving at least one type of coin or other payment device and including circuits for controlling changeable parameters, such as temperature drift, low voltage levels, aging etc. The electronic parking meter has a power source which may be a solar type power source with a low voltage control circuit. The meter also has a microprocessor with a memory connected to the power supply. The microprocessor has a power-up mode, a standby mode and an operational mode. An electronic display is connected to the microprocessor and displays pertinent information. A coin received in the meter causes a signal to be generated upon receipt of the coin by a sensor. The meter also has a coin detector and a microprocessor controlled circuit for adjusting a setpoint of the coin detector.

Abstract: Apparatus for affixing a coin drop mechanism to the front panel of a vending machine in situations where internal tactile and visual access to the rear surface of the machine panel is limited. An external plate assembly includes guide rods extending from threaded studs which are used to align an internal plate assembly supporting the end drive mechanism. Internally threaded tubular locking fixtures applied over the guide rods to engage the studs for clamping the first and second plate assemblies around the panel. When proper assembly has been achieved the tip to the guide rods extends to the locking members to provide a tactical indication that proper installation has been achieved.