Having Means To Divert Spurious Matter Patents (Class 194/347)
  • Patent number: 11790355
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel coin counting lottery vending machine with selective cryptocurrency support. The machine combines the functions of enabling users to buy lottery tickets using coins, cash and/or cryptocurrency and converting coins into cash or cryptocurrency. The machine includes a coin receptacle, a ticket scanner to check the winning status of a previously purchased ticket, a ticket slot for receiving play slips for draw tickets, a cash slot, a touch screen, and a dispensing tray. The machine can also be connected to a lottery provider server for checking status of a ticket and storing information about dispensed tickets. The machine can also be connected to a cryptocurrency exchange for performing cryptocurrency transactions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2023
    Inventor: Mark Tatum
  • Patent number: 8986084
    Abstract: Device for receiving coins improved in such a way that large amounts of coins can be received as well as separated reliably and quickly and such that the adverse influence of foreign matters introduced along with the coins on the coin separating function and/or on the performance of the coin separating unit may be reduced. The device includes an aperture for charging coins, a unit for separating coins and a feed unit for feeding coins which is provided with a guide face giving support to the coins during the feeding process and which is an active type feeder having a feed module (5) that is operable with the aid of an actuator means to feed coins toward the coin separating unit and that is designed such that the coins are transported toward the coin separating unit along said guide face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Wincor Nixdorf International GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Starke, Thorsten Neumann, Axel Grimm, Stig Goepel
  • Patent number: 8640850
    Abstract: A device for the acceptance of coins which allows the acceptance of individual coins as well as the acceptance of various coins for further processing of the coins, whereby the device includes a laterally moveable holding fixture. The holding fixture has a side with a coin insertion slot, and a receptacle area for the reception of a plurality of coins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Novomatic AG
    Inventors: Roland Mührenberg, Danis Shageev, Marko Zander
  • Patent number: 8607957
    Abstract: According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a coin processing system includes a coin input area that receives coins from a user, a coin processing module that counts the received coins, and a foreign object detection system that detects a foreign object within the coin processing module subsequent to counting substantially all the received coins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Cummins-Allison Corp.
    Inventors: John R. Blake, Douglas U. Mennie, Samuel F. Collura, John S. Lykowski, Arthur J. Long
  • Patent number: 8522950
    Abstract: Apparatuses, systems, and methods for separating debris from coins and the like from customer-operated kiosks and other machines. A debris diverter including a motor, a rotating bobbin, and at least one vane is positioned over a coin track with the vane spaced apart from the coin track by a predetermined distance to permit objects smaller than the predetermined distance to pass by the debris diverter and to contact objects larger than the predetermined distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Outerwall Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas A. Martin
  • Patent number: 8459437
    Abstract: A financial self-help service device for preventing plugging by foreign objects and damage by mucilage glue is provided. It has a panel, and a cash inlet-outlet (1) is set on the panel. The financial self-help service device further includes a gate (2) for opening or closing the cash inlet-outlet (1). POM (polyoxymethylene) plastic convex points (9) are provided at the edge of the gate (2) matched with the cash inlet-outlet (1), so as to form a flow guide gap between the gate (2) and the panel when the gate (2) closes the cash inlet-outlet (I).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: GRG Banking Equipment Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Zeyan Guan, Xiaodian Chen, Dong Wei, Nian Wang
  • Patent number: 8381893
    Abstract: The invention proposes an insertion device for coins for transferring said coins to a coin tester or to a coin-operated machine, having an insertion slot and having a coin outlet, between which is arranged a rotatable drum having a receiving region for receiving a coin, wherein in a receiving position, the receiving region is accessible to a coin which can be inserted through the insertion slot, and the insertion slot can be closed off by means of rotation of the drum. The drum having the receiving region is covered by a flap which can be opened in a controlled fashion in an ejection position for ejecting foreign material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Walter Hanke Mechanische Werkstatten GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Christian Trenner, Andreas Fresenborg
  • Publication number: 20120267215
    Abstract: Device for the acceptance of coins which allows the acceptance of individual coins as well as the acceptance of various coins for further processing of the coins, whereby the device is a drawer-like, laterally moveable holding fixture (5, 10, 14), which is characterised by the drawer-like holding fixture (5, 10, 14) having a on the one side a coin insertion slot (4) and an receptacle area (10, 13, 14) for the reception of a plurality of coins.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2010
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Applicant: Novomatic AG
    Inventors: Roland Mührenberg, Danis Shageev, Marko Zander
  • Patent number: 8006821
    Abstract: A rotary anti-pullback unit is provided which comprises a rotor 22 and a frame 43 for rotatably supporting the rotor 22. Rotor 22 comprises a plurality of disks 25 arranged coaxially in a line and in axially spaced relation to each other, and a plurality of fletched fins 26 axially protruding from at least one radial surface 25a of disks 25 toward an opposite radial surface 25a of the other adjoining spaced disk 25. Rotor 22 is rotated concurrently with a bill 70 transported along each outer periphery of disks 25 in contact to transported bill 70 to radially inwardly move a flexible extracting tool 71 connected to bill 70, and bring tool 71 into tangled engagement with fin or fins 26 in order to prevent unduly extraction of bill 70.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Japan Cash Machine Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toru Seki, Shinya Izawa
  • Publication number: 20110098845
    Abstract: According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a coin processing system includes a coin input area that receives coins from a user, a coin processing module that counts the received coins, and a foreign object detection system that detects a foreign object within the coin processing module subsequent to counting substantially all the received coins.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2011
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Applicant: Cummins-Allison Corp.
    Inventors: John R. Blake, Douglas U. Mennie, Samuel F. Collura, John S. Lykowski, Arthur J. Long
  • Patent number: 7886890
    Abstract: According to one embodiment of the present invention, a coin processing system includes a coin input area that receives coins from a user, a coin processing module that counts the received coins, and a foreign object detection system that detects a foreign object within the coin processing module subsequent to counting substantially all the received coins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Cummins-Allison Corp.
    Inventors: John R. Blake, Douglas U. Mennie, Samuel F. Collura, John S. Lykowski, Arthur J. Long
  • Patent number: 7735622
    Abstract: A hopper for a coin processing machine has a turntable that receives coins and rotates in a first direction to discharge coins from the hopper. A circumferential wall surrounds the turntable, and includes a coin discharge opening and a second opening. A diverter plate extends away from the wall upstream of the second opening. The diverter plate blocks coins from entering the second opening when the turntable rotates in the first direction. The diverter plate directs any debris remaining on the turntable to the second opening when the turntable rotates in the opposite, second direction after discharging all the coins from the hopper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Inventor: Gregory F. String
  • Publication number: 20090159395
    Abstract: A coin conditioner is provided for cleaning or otherwise conditioning coins in a coin discriminator apparatus prior to transfer to a coin sensor. Coins enter through a feed tray and move down the length of a perforated tumbler, preferably without the use of gravity, such as under screw force, mechanical or centrifugal force. The spinning tumbler is preferably rotated about its longitudinal axis by a motor. In one embodiment, a blower or vacuum draws or moves air from one area to another, with the air preferably being filtered. As coins move through and down a tumbler, projections such as vanes, fins, ridges, dimples, spines or other raised features cause mechanical agitation and/or abrasion as coins are lifted and dropped while passing longitudinally through the tumbler. The coins are conditioned and non-coin matter is collected as it is separated and/or abraded from the coin surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2008
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Inventors: Dan Gerrity, Aaron Finch, Chris Ferguson, Scott Scherer, Rick Riday, Larry D. Cannon
  • Patent number: 7530440
    Abstract: A gaming machine is provided with a cabinet; a door (3), provided on the front face of the above-mentioned cabinet; a bill insertion slot (529), provided on the door (3); and a bill guide plate (52A), which extends outwards from the lower end of the bill insertion slot (529) and is for guiding a bill into the bill insertion slot (529). The bill guide plate (52A) has a plurality of substantially rectilinear slit openings (521) formed in rows. Even when a drink or other foreign matter is spilled onto the bill guide plate (52A), it can be prevented from getting on the various devices inside the cabinet via the bill insertion slot (529) and thus breakage of the various devices can be prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Aruze Corp
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Nagano
  • Patent number: 7516831
    Abstract: Foreign object removal-enabling features in a coin-operated item vending and game apparatus housing include a shallow V-shaped guard wall extending between a pair of opposing sidewalls of a lower end portion of the housing, a pair of openings each in one of the opposing sidewalls adjacent opposite ends of the guard wall, and another opening in a front wall of the housing below and in front of the guard wall. The guard wall is positioned to block debris, such as pieces of paper, from traveling on a path to a coin slot of a coin deposit while providing a slot in the guard wall for permitting a coin to pass through the guard wall to the coin slot. The wall openings will permit insertion a tweezers or other tool therethrough enable the debris removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Inventor: Kil Jae Chang
  • Publication number: 20090045031
    Abstract: A method and system for prevention of dust accumulation on a coin sensor assembly (67) in a coin handling machine (60), includes a lower optical element (83, 90) positioned below a coin track (63) and then either, or both of, 1) blowing off dust that tends to accumulate on the cover (83) for the lower optical element (90) and 2) coating the cover (83) for the lower optical element (90) with a transparent conductive coating (83a) that is electrically grounded to prevent accumulation of dust due to static electrical attraction. A fan unit (82) is positioned adjacent the cover (83) for blowing dust off the cover (83) during operation of the coin handling machine (60). The method and system is preferably a optical reflector system with an upper optical element in the form of a reflector (86, 87) and a transparent conductive coating of material (87a) is also provided on the reflector (86, 87).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventors: Robert E. Gunst, Thomas P. Adams, Jason R. Parpart, Myron W. Spoehr
  • Patent number: 7464802
    Abstract: A coin conditioner is provided for cleaning or otherwise conditioning coins in a coin discriminator apparatus prior to transfer to a coin sensor. Coins enter through a feed tray and move down the length of a perforated tumbler, preferably without the use of gravity, such as under screw force, mechanical or centrifugal force. The spinning tumbler is preferably rotated about its longitudinal axis by a motor. In one embodiment, a blower or vacuum draws or moves air from one area to another, with the air preferably being filtered. As coins move through and down a tumbler, projections such as vanes, fins, ridges, dimples, spines or other raised features cause mechanical agitation and/or abrasion as coins are lifted and dropped while passing longitudinally through the tumbler. The coins are conditioned and non-coin matter is collected as it is separated and/or abraded from the coin surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: Coinstar, Inc.
    Inventors: Dan Gerrity, Aaron Finch, Chris Ferguson, Scott Scherer, Rick Riday, Larry D. Cannon
  • Patent number: 7438172
    Abstract: A coin processing system includes a coin input area for receiving coins from a user, and a coin processing module for receiving and counting the coins from the coin input area. The coin processing module includes a coin hopper, a coin processing area, and a foreign object removal system. The coin hopper receives the coins from the coin input area. The coin processing area receives and counts the coins from the coin hopper. The foreign object removal system is located at least partially within the coin hopper, and removes a foreign object from the coin hopper subsequent to receiving the foreign object from the coin input area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: Cummins-Allison Corp.
    Inventors: Arthur J. Long, Gary W. Cooper, John R. Blake, JohnMark Mobley
  • Patent number: 7290645
    Abstract: A coin cleaning device for separating foreign objects from a mass of coins, comprising first and second shelf portions arranged at first and second heights, vibration means for vibrating both the first and second shelf portions to cause coins on said shelf portions to be conveyed along said shelf portions, said shelf portions each being perforated by apertures of transverse dimensions smaller than a predetermined minimum diameter of coins to be handled by the device, whereby foreign matter of transverse dimensions smaller than the perforations can fall through said perforations, said first shelf portion having an upstream end and a downstream end, said second shelf portion having an upstream end and a downstream end, said shelf portions being arranged in series with one another whereby coins fall from said downstream end of said first shelf portion to tumble downwards to lie on said upstream end of said second shelf portion, and a coin outlet positioned beneath said downstream end of said second shelf portion
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Scan Coin Industries AB
    Inventors: Timothy W. Hill, Simon Scott Brown
  • Patent number: 7113929
    Abstract: The present invention allows verification of a voucher or token prior to redemption. The voucher or token has a code associated therewith so that a value of the voucher or token may be stored in a database. Later when the voucher or token is presented to a cashier for redemption, the code is submitted to the database in order to retrieve the value associated with that voucher or token. In this way, the voucher or token is verified before redemption. In one embodiment, a verification system includes a voucher or token database, a recognition subsystem and two transceivers. The database knows the code and value associated with the voucher or token. A recognition subsystem reads the code from the voucher or token. The transceivers couple together the database and the recognition subsystem in such a way that the a query can be made by the recognition system to determine the value associated with the code or otherwise verify the validity of the voucher or token.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Coinstar, Inc.
    Inventors: Kirk Beach, Christopher A. Pesch
  • Patent number: 7036650
    Abstract: A sheet accepting apparatus comprises an inlet (210) for receiving one or more sheets. A transport system (217,350) extracts sheets from the inlet. A first detector (222) detects the passage of a foreign object with the transported sheet(s), the transport system being controllable to divert a detected foreign object to a foreign object collection position (215). One or more further detectors monitor sheets fed by the transport system. At least one store (205) is provided for storing accepted sheets. A controller is responsive to the detectors for controlling the transport system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: De La Rue International LTD
    Inventors: Robert Brugger, Pierre-Yves Monneron, Daniel Wyss, Matthew Price
  • Patent number: 7028827
    Abstract: A coin sorting and counting machine and a method for operating it to automatically dispense cash vouchers based on the value of the counted coins, manufacturers' coupons and store coupons. Coins are placed in a hopper tray. When the hinged tray is lifted, the coins travel through a waste management system and into the coin sorting and counting apparatus. The value of the coins and the number of coins within each denomination are displayed as the coins are counted. After sorting, the coins fall into a temporary holding area. At this point the transaction can either be canceled or accepted. If the transaction is canceled, the coins are returned. If the transaction is accepted, the coins fall into a storage area and the user is issued a cash voucher and a series of store coupons. Manufacturers' coupons are dispensed regardless of whether or not the transaction is accepted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Coinstar, Inc.
    Inventors: Jens H. Molbak, Vae E. Sun
  • Patent number: 7017729
    Abstract: A coin conditioner is provided for cleaning or otherwise conditioning coins in a coin discriminator apparatus prior to transfer to a coin sensor. Coins enter through a feed tray and move down the length of a perforated tumbler, preferably without the use of gravity, such as under screw force, mechanical or centrifugal force. The spinning tumbler is preferably rotated about its longitudinal axis by a motor. In one embodiment, a blower or vacuum draws or moves air from one area to another, with the air preferably being filtered. As coins move through and down a tumbler, projections such as vanes, fins, ridges, dimples, spines or other raised features cause mechanical agitation and/or abrasion as coins are lifted and dropped while passing longitudinally through the tumbler. The coins are conditioned and non-coin matter is collected as it is separated and/or abraded from the coin surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Coinstar, Inc.
    Inventors: Dan Gerrity, Aaron Finch, Chris Ferguson, Scott Scherer, Rick Riday, Larry D. Cannon
  • Patent number: 6863168
    Abstract: Methods and systems for cleaning coins and issuing a redeemable voucher for same. In one embodiment, an apparatus for issuing a redeemable voucher includes a coin input region configured to receive a plurality of coins, and a user interface configured to receive a request for a redeemable voucher. The apparatus can further include a debris separation device having a first opening configured to receive the plurality of coins from the coin input region, and at least a first wall forming an interior surface and an exterior surface. The first wall of the debris separation device includes at least one second opening smaller than the first opening and sized to prevent passage therethrough of the smallest coin of the plurality of coins. A driver can be configured to move the debris separation device and agitate the plurality of coins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Coinstar, Inc.
    Inventors: Dan Gerrity, Aaron Finch, Chris Ferguson, Scott Scherer, Rick Riday, Larry D. Cannon
  • Patent number: 6840366
    Abstract: A coin processing device. The device includes coin tracks that are aligned side by side, such that the coin tracks and coin storages are arranged within a limited space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Comex Telecom Corporation
    Inventor: Chung Sheng-Hsing
  • Publication number: 20040134747
    Abstract: A gaming machine is provided with a cabinet; a door (3), provided on the front face of the above-mentioned cabinet; a bill insertion slot (529), provided on the door (3); and a bill guide plate (52A), which extends outwards from the lower end of the bill insertion slot (529) and is for guiding a bill into the bill insertion slot (529). The bill guide plate (52A) has a plurality of substantially rectilinear slit openings (521) formed in rows. Even when a drink or other foreign matter is spilled onto the bill guide plate (52A), it can be prevented from getting on the various devices inside the cabinet via the bill insertion slot (529) and thus breakage of the various devices can be prevented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Nagano
  • Patent number: 6736251
    Abstract: A coin sorting and counting machine and a method for operating it to automatically dispense cash vouchers based on the value of the counted coins, manufacturers' coupons and store coupons. Coins are placed in a hopper tray angled downward from the horizontal. When the hinged tray is lifted, the coins travel over a peak structure, through a waste management system and into the coin sorting and counting apparatus. The value of the coins and the number of coins within each denomination are displayed as the coins are counted. The coins fall into a storage area and the user is issued a cash voucher and a series of manufacturer coupons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Assignee: Coinstar, Inc.
    Inventor: Jens H. Molbak
  • Publication number: 20040000462
    Abstract: A coin processing device comprises a plurality of coin tracks arranged in three dimension. The coin tracks of the coin processing device are aligned side by side, such that a plurality of coin tracks and coin storages are arranged within a limited space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Publication date: January 1, 2004
    Applicant: Comex Telecom Corporation, Taipei, Taiwan
    Inventor: Chung Sheng-Hsing
  • Publication number: 20030234153
    Abstract: According to one embodiment of the present invention, a coin processing system includes a coin input area that receives coins from a user, a coin processing module that counts the received coins, and a foreign object detection system that detects a foreign object within the coin processing module subsequent to counting substantially all the received coins.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Publication date: December 25, 2003
    Inventors: John R. Blake, Douglas U. Mennie, Samuel F. Collura, John S. Lykowski, Arthur J. Long
  • Patent number: 6666318
    Abstract: A coin conditioner is provided for cleaning or otherwise conditioning coins in a coin discriminator apparatus prior to transfer to a coin sensor. Coins enter through a feed tray and move down the length of a perforated tumbler, preferably without the use of gravity, such as under screw force, mechanical or centrifugal force. The spinning tumbler is preferably rotated about its longitudinal axis by a motor. In one embodiment, a blower or vacuum draws or moves air from one area to another, with the air preferably being filtered. As coins move through and down a tumbler, projections such as vanes, fins, ridges, dimples, spines or other raised features cause mechanical agitation and/or abrasion as coins are lifted and dropped while passing longitudinally through the tumbler. The coins are conditioned and non-coin matter is collected as it is separated and/or abraded from the coin surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: Coinstar, Inc.
    Inventors: Dan Gerrity, Aaron Finch, Chris Ferguson, Scott Scherer, Rick Riday, Larry D. Cannon
  • Patent number: 6663675
    Abstract: A coin input apparatus for a coin processing device comprises a coin tray pivotally coupled to the device for feeding coins into the device and a coin chute for guiding coins from the coin tray into the device. The coin tray has a corrugated surface. The coin chute has a corrugated surface for mating with the corrugated surface of the coin tray for minimizing a gap between the coin tray and the coin chute.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Cummins-Allison Corp.
    Inventors: John R. Blake, John H. Kutsch
  • Publication number: 20030196869
    Abstract: A coin sorting and counting machine and a method for operating it to automatically dispense cash vouchers based on the value of the counted coins, manufacturers' coupons and store coupons. Coins are placed in a hopper tray angled downward from the horizontal. When the hinged tray is lifted, the coins travel over a peak structure, through a waste management system and into the coin sorting and counting apparatus. The value of the coins and the number of coins within each denomination are displayed as the coins are counted. The coins fall into a storage area and the user is issued a cash voucher and a series of manufacturer coupons.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2003
    Publication date: October 23, 2003
    Inventor: Jens H. Molbak
  • Publication number: 20030075414
    Abstract: A coin conditioner is provided for cleaning or otherwise conditioning coins in a coin discriminator apparatus prior to transfer to a coin sensor. Coins enter through a feed tray and move down the length of a perforated tumbler, preferably without the use of gravity, such as under screw force, mechanical or centrifugal force. The spinning tumbler is preferably rotated about its longitudinal axis by a motor. In one embodiment, a blower or vacuum draws or moves air from one area to another, with the air preferably being filtered. As coins move through and down a tumbler, projections such as vanes, fins, ridges, dimples, spines or other raised features cause mechanical agitation and/or abrasion as coins are lifted and dropped while passing longitudinally through the tumbler. The coins are conditioned and non-coin matter is collected as it is separated and/or abraded from the coin surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Dan Gerrity, Aaron Finch, Chris Ferguson, Scott Scherer, Rick Riday, Larry D. Cannon
  • Publication number: 20030010599
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a dirt separation module (1) for use at a coin sorting and/or counting machine (11). The module has an inlet (2) for coins (14) and a perforated plate (3). The perforated plate is received sliding in relation to the inlet (2) and is stepped. The invention also includes a CDS machine furnished with a dirt separation module (1). Furthermore, the invention concerns a method by which the plate is given a reciprocating movement to move the lowermost layer of coins (14) from the mass of coins.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventor: Magnus Svensson
  • Publication number: 20020189920
    Abstract: A coin sorting and counting machine and a method for operating it to automatically dispense cash vouchers based on the value of the counted coins, manufacturers' coupons and store coupons. Coins are placed in a hopper tray angled downward from the horizontal. When the hinged tray is lifted, the coins travel over a peak structure, through a waste management system and into the coin sorting and counting apparatus. The value of the coins and the number of coins within each denomination are displayed as the coins are counted. The coins fall into a storage area and the user is issued a cash voucher and a series of manufacturer coupons.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventor: Jens H. Molbak
  • Patent number: 6484884
    Abstract: A coin conditioner is provided for cleaning or otherwise conditioning coins in a coin discriminator apparatus prior to transfer to a coin sensor. Coins enter through a feed tray and move down the length of a perforated tumbler, preferably without the use of gravity, such as under screw force, mechanical or centrifugal force. The spinning tumbler is preferably rotated about its longitudinal axis by a motor. In one embodiment, a blower or vacuum draws or moves air from one area to another, with the air preferably being filtered. As coins move through and down a tumbler, projections such as vanes, fins, ridges, dimples, spines or other raised features cause mechanical agitation and/or abrasion as coins are lifted and dropped while passing longitudinally through the tumbler. The coins are conditioned and non-coin matter is collected as it is separated and/or abraded from the coin surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Coinstar, Inc.
    Inventors: Dan Gerrity, Aaron Finch, Chris Ferguson, Scott Scherer, Rick Riday, Larry D. Cannon
  • Patent number: 6318536
    Abstract: A multi-transaction coin machine is provided which accepts a number of coins, counts the coins and displays the value to a user. The user is presented a variety of options in exchange for the coins, including a receipt redeemable for cash, or a variety of electronic financial transactions, including paying bills or purchasing tickets. The multi-transaction coin machine is an innovation in self-service convenience, efficiency and functionality, providing the services of a variety of machines, such as coin machines, ATMs, ticket services, and bill paying services all in a single user-operated machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: Cash Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce R. Korman, August Golds
  • Patent number: 6093094
    Abstract: A coin feed control apparatus includes a hopper (20) having a discharge opening (17) that is disposed above a rotating disc (10) of a coin handling machine. The discharge opening (17) is positioned over a coin receiving region (14) of the disc. A coin feed control member (30) is mounted for pivotal movement to further open or further close the discharge opening (17). The feed control member (30), the discharge opening (17) and the coin receiving region (14) are sized such that the feed control member (30) will tend to move to partially close the discharge opening (17) in response to a build-up of coins in the coin receiving region, and thereby limit the flow of coins through the discharge opening (17), and such that the reduction of coins in the coin receiving region (14) will allow the feed control member (30) to drop and further open the discharge opening (17) to allow a greater flow of coins into the coin receiving region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Assignee: De La Rue Systems Americas Corporation
    Inventors: Richard P. Uecker, Joseph P. Hanus
  • Patent number: 6053807
    Abstract: Apparatus for processing coins or similar disk-like objects having a coin hopper, a coin tray that transfers the coins individually to a counting and/or sorting section and an inclined conveyor disposed between the hopper and the tray in order to feed coins to the coin tray. The tilt of the conveyor causes larger foreign objects to slide down the conveyor in a direction opposite to the feed direction, and the conveyor may include a coin singularizing stripper near its delivery end. A chute extends between the delivery end of the conveyor and the coin tray and the chute is perforated in order to separate coins from smaller foreign objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Assignee: Standardwerk Eugen Reis GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Rolf Metzger, Thomas Meisenzahl
  • Patent number: 5953709
    Abstract: A voucher cash-out system (20) includes a service terminal (22) for producing a voucher (58) in response to a received service request (50). A processor (24) in communication with the service terminal (22), manages a cash disbursement relative to a cash worth (62) of the voucher (58). An automated cash disbursement machine (28), in communication with the processor (24), is configured to perform the cash disbursement in response to validation of the voucher (58) by the processor (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: Labor Ready, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith Gilbert, Glenn A. Welstad, Todd Welstad
  • Patent number: 5915519
    Abstract: The present invention provides a coin chute for use with a coin changer in a vending machine. There is a coin entry path defined by a ramp mounted adjacent a main plate and a backplate. Upon activation of a coin reject lever accessible by a user, the one plate swings away from the other allowing an object jammed in the coin entry path to fall off of the coin entry path into a coin return chute. A kicker urges objects off of the ramp as the plates swing apart. The ramp is also tilted to allow fluid to drain off of the ramp through a gap between the ramp and a plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Assignee: L. M. Becker & Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Robert L. Glaser
  • Patent number: 5871076
    Abstract: A coin handling protection device is disclosed which prevents thieves from stuffing compressible material through the coin insert slot and into the coin return chute of coin-operated machines. The device prevents stuffing the coin return chute by incorporating a blocking plate across the top opening of the coin return chute such that compressible material stuffed into the coin insert slot is diverted into the open space within the payphone unit. The device is suitable for use in existing coin handling apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1999
    Assignee: Sandt Technology, Ltd.
    Inventors: Salvatore Anello, Nathan M. Turk
  • Patent number: 5829569
    Abstract: A coin reception mechanism includes a base fixed inside for example a pay phone to receive coins for operating the pay phone. The coin reception mechanism includes a chute assembly including a first plate and a second plate which are independent of each other and are both pivoted to the base in such a manner to form a spacing therebetween defining a coin chute leading to a coin collector container. The first plate has a coin slot formed thereon to be substantially in alignment with the coin chute for receiving and guiding a coin into the coin chute.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Karin Telecomm Corporation
    Inventors: Li-Te Cheng, Sung-Min Lin
  • Patent number: 5806652
    Abstract: The present invention involves a tamper-resistant guard for a coin-collection machine that receives coins and directs the coins toward a coin-collection machine, while the guard also protects the coin machine from pilfering. The tamper-resistant anti-theft guard has a cover which encloses the inlet opening of the coin-collection machine, and the cover has dual anti-theft coin guards, namely, a limited-access openings on its surface and baffles housed within it. The limited-access openings and the baffles prohibit or restrict the insertion of human hands, human fingers, or foreign objects into the cover or into the coin machine being protected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: New Jersey Highway Authority
    Inventors: Elizabeth Johnson, Richard Richroath, Joseph Lentini, Robert Torode
  • Patent number: 5799767
    Abstract: A coin sorting and counting machine and a method for operating it to automatically dispense cash vouchers based on the value of the counted coins, manufacturers' coupons and store coupons. Coins are placed in a hopper tray angled downward from the horizontal. When the hinged tray is lifted, the coins travel over a peak structure, through a waste management system and into the coin sorting and counting apparatus. The value of the coins and the number of coins within each denomination are displayed as the coins are counted. The coins fall into a storage area and the user is issued a cash voucher and a series of manufacturer coupons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Assignee: Coinstar, Inc.
    Inventor: Jens H. Molbak
  • Patent number: 5787158
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods immediately alert a telephone company or other owner/host or operator of a payphone that a vandalizing stuffing has occurred, thereby enabling it or him or her promptly to dispatch a maintenance person to the particular payphone or station to fix it. Stuffing sensing switches are advantageously mounted in a coin return mechanism, and in electromechanical payphones electrically connected to the telephone company central office over one of the existing RING and TIP wires connecting the stuffed or compromised payphone with the central office. Conventional testing techniques periodically employed in the office by the telephone company over the existing wit. installation will then sense whether a payphone has been compromised or stuffed. In electronic payphones, a payphone computer monitors the sensing switches and calls the owner/host or operator to report a problem or gives a local alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: Sandt Technology, Ltd.
    Inventors: Salvatore Anello, Albert F. Diaz
  • Patent number: 5713451
    Abstract: An automatic product dispensing device including a coin mechanism for the insertion of at least one coin, tokens or the like and a mechanism for discharging extraneous items. A mechanism is provided for checking correct operation acting upon a mechanism for controlling the discharge. The discharge mechanism is formed by a chute having a body formed by at least one portion including two flaps of which one is articulated. At least one electromagnet acts upon the articulated flap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 3, 1998
    Assignee: Remy Lenfant Et Cie
    Inventor: Bernard Masse
  • Patent number: 5647470
    Abstract: A tamper resistant coin race is provided which establishes a non-linear coin race or path for the coin to traverse. The structure defining the coin race provides communication from the coin race to the exterior to prevent the locking of the coin race by the insertion of foreign matter. Structures are also provided to further limit the insertion of probes into the coin race.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1997
    Assignee: Imonex Services Inc.
    Inventors: Philemon L. Bruner, David C. Bugge
  • Patent number: 5620079
    Abstract: A coin sorting and counting machine and a method for operating it to automatically dispense cash vouchers based on the value of the counted coins, manufacturers' coupons and store coupons. Coins are placed in a hopper tray angled downward from the horizontal. When the hinged tray is lifted, the coins travel over a peak structure, through a waste management system and into the coin sorting and counting apparatus. The value of the coins and the number of coins within each denomination are displayed as the coins are counted. The coins fall into a storage area and the user is issued a cash voucher and a series of manufacturer coupons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1997
    Assignee: Coinstar, Inc.
    Inventor: Jens H. Molbak
  • Patent number: 5564546
    Abstract: A coin sorting and counting machine and a method for operating it to automatically dispense cash vouchers based on the value of the counted coins, manufacturers' coupons and store coupons. Coins are placed in a hopper tray. When the hinged tray is lifted, the coins travel through a waste management system and into the coin sorting and counting apparatus. The value of the coins and the number of coins within each denomination are displayed as the coins are counted. After sorting, the coins fall into a temporary holding area. At this point the transaction can either be canceled or accepted. If the transaction is canceled, the coins are returned. If the transaction is accepted, the coins fall into a storage area and the user is issued a cash voucher and a series of store coupons. Manufacturers' coupons are dispensed regardless of whether or not the transaction is accepted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Assignee: Coinstar, Inc.
    Inventors: Jens H. Molbak, Vae E. Sun