EP0078214A1 - Testing arrangement for a multitude of different coins - Google Patents

Testing arrangement for a multitude of different coins Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP0078214A1
EP0078214A1 EP82401954A EP82401954A EP0078214A1 EP 0078214 A1 EP0078214 A1 EP 0078214A1 EP 82401954 A EP82401954 A EP 82401954A EP 82401954 A EP82401954 A EP 82401954A EP 0078214 A1 EP0078214 A1 EP 0078214A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
corridor
alloy
selector according
acceptable
memory
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP82401954A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0078214B1 (en
Inventor
Joel Doucet
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Publication of EP0078214A1 publication Critical patent/EP0078214A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0078214B1 publication Critical patent/EP0078214B1/en
Expired legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07D—HANDLING OF COINS OR VALUABLE PAPERS, e.g. TESTING, SORTING BY DENOMINATIONS, COUNTING, DISPENSING, CHANGING OR DEPOSITING
    • G07D5/00—Testing specially adapted to determine the identity or genuineness of coins, e.g. for segregating coins which are unacceptable or alien to a currency
    • G07D5/02—Testing the dimensions, e.g. thickness, diameter; Testing the deformation
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07D—HANDLING OF COINS OR VALUABLE PAPERS, e.g. TESTING, SORTING BY DENOMINATIONS, COUNTING, DISPENSING, CHANGING OR DEPOSITING
    • G07D5/00—Testing specially adapted to determine the identity or genuineness of coins, e.g. for segregating coins which are unacceptable or alien to a currency
    • G07D5/08—Testing the magnetic or electric properties

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a multi-coin coin selector comprising a corridor having an inclined bottom for rolling the coins and an inclined wall for supporting one face of the coins, means comprising photoreceptive means and photoemissive means on both sides. 'other of the corridor to recognize the dimensions of the parts, and means comprising two coils on either side of the corridor to recognize the alloys of the parts.
  • the multi-room selectors as described in FR-A-2 461 987 and FR-A-2 466 055 include, as means of recognizing the dimensions of the parts, also two coils on either side of the running lane of the rooms. These coils have diameters such that the upper end of a part having the minimum diameter crosses only slightly their electromagnetic field and a part having the maximum diameter completely crosses this electromagnetic field.
  • One of the so-called oscillating coils is connected to an oscillating circuit which supplies a high frequency signal of the order of 100 kHz.
  • the other so-called receiving coil transmits to voltage comparison means a voltage which is proportional to the intensity of the magnetic flux through which the upper part of each part passes. Reference voltages representative of the diameters of the different types of acceptable parts are compared with the voltage transmitted by the take-up reel in order to deduce whether the part must be accepted, in which case its diameter is between the minimum and maximum diameters or be otherwise refused.
  • the means for recognizing alloys of the parts also use the same principle of comparison of tensions.
  • Another coin selector is disclosed in FR-A-2 448 752. This selector selects only one type of coin, that is to say can only admit coins having a predetermined diameter, constituted by a predetermined alloy or material.
  • Alloy recognition means are based on the principle described previously. They also include two coils facing each other. One of the coils is excited by a frequency generator. The other coil receives an induced signal, the amplitude of which is compared with a predetermined voltage in order to accept the part inserted between the coils when the amplitude is less than the predetermined voltage.
  • the means for recognizing the dimensions of the parts according to FR-A-2 448 752 comprise two pairs of lamps and. photo - transistor which are respectively placed at a distance substantially equal to the diameter of the type of acceptable part. If one or both of the phototransistors are illuminated, the inserted part does not have the required diameter and is rejected.
  • the previous known selectors thus adopt as selection criteria only the diameter and the alloy of the parts. If a part with a required diameter and alloy is introduced, it will be accepted regardless of its thickness. This also offers a non-negligible prospect for fraudsters to introduce false coins into the dispensing device.
  • the diameter recognition means according to FR-A-2 466 055 do not allow the acceptance of parts having a diameter included in a predetermined relatively small range. If the dispenser has to accept parts with a very large difference in diameter, the measurement sensitivity to distinguish the diameters requires very precise adjustment and the number of diameters requires as many comparison circuits. This last remark is also valid for the comparison circuits included in the alloy recognition means.
  • the object of the present invention is to provide a multi-coin selector which makes it possible to select the coins in particular according to their thicknesses.
  • the respective comparison means included both in the size recognition means and in the alloy recognition means are unique and used for all types of parts.
  • a multi-coin selector of the kind described in the introduction is characterized in that the bottom of the corridor has in front of the dimension recognition means a stepped cross section whose bottom step is adjacent to the inclined wall from the hall.
  • the photoreceptive means consist of photoreceptors such as transfer circuits load / phototransistors respectively opposite the stair risers and capable of receiving the radiation emitted by the photoemissive means.
  • the staircase section of the bottom thus makes it possible to differentiate the thicknesses of acceptable pieces.
  • the concealment of photoreceptors opposite the risers and other photoreceptors above the stairs thus produces a binary word identifying not only the diameter but also the thickness of each type of acceptable part.
  • Recognition of acceptable dimensions is obtained by means connected to the photoreceptors to detect an identification word for the diameter and thickness of each piece introduced into the corridor, a word memory identifying respectively the dimensions of acceptable pieces and means for compare each detected word with the memorized words in order to accept or reject the introduced document.
  • the alloy recognition means comprise an impedance bridge of which two adjacent branches each include parallel impedances and one of these two branches of which includes the two coils in series, means for comparison of voltages to detect the balance of the bridge with a view to accepting or refusing a part passing between the two coils, a word memory identifying respectively the alloys of acceptable parts and switching means receiving the words alloy identification to select combinations of impedances in the bridge corresponding to its balance for all types of acceptable parts.
  • a selector for coins or tokens having different diameters, thicknesses and alloys includes means for recognizing dimensions 1-2 of the pieces P and means for recognizing alloys 3-4 of the pieces P.
  • Each of these means comprises a device for detecting the pieces 1.3 which is located along the corridor. 5 for the gravity bearing of the parts P, and a circuit 2.4 associated with the respective detection device 1.3 to compare the dimension or the alloy detected with those prerecorded.
  • the circuits 2 and 4 are included in a logic control unit 6 which determines, according to the results of the comparisons, whether an introduced part must be accepted and cashed or be refused and reimbursed.
  • the multi-room selector is located in a known device for distributing objects or services. We will only mention in the following the elements of this device which relate directly to the multi-room selector.
  • the runway 5 has an inlet 50 which is constituted by the single slot for introducing the parts, and a double outlet 51-52.
  • the latter consists of a first outlet 51 known as acceptable coins above the collection receptacle of the dispensing apparatus and by a second outlet 52 of rejected coins above the reimbursement receptacle of the dispensing apparatus.
  • the selection at the end of the corridor between the rooms acceptable and refused is obtained by means of an electromagnet 60 which is controlled through a conductive link 61 by the unit 6.
  • the electromagnet 60 keeps the end of the corridor open, through a retractable hatch 62, both that the comparisons relating either to the dimensions or to the alloy are negative.
  • the runway 5 has a generally rectangular section and has a descending bottom 53 from the inlet 50 towards the outlet 51-52. - According to the illustrated embodiment, from the input 50, a part first passes through the detection device of dimensions 1 then the detection device of alloys 3.
  • the bottom 53 of the raceway has a width equal to the greatest thickness of the acceptable parts.
  • the bottom plane 53e on the side of the inlet 50 is at a level higher than the bottom plane 53a passing through the device 2 to the outlet 51-52.
  • the bottom has a cross section in straight staircase, through the device 1, as shown in FIG. 4. It was assumed that the staircase section included three intermediate steps 54b, 54c and 54d between a lower step 54a and an upper step 54e.
  • the steps 54a and 54e are respectively coplanar with the bottom planes 53a and 53e.
  • the longitudinal walls 550 and 551 of the passage 5 are inclined relative to the vertical so that all the parts are supported by gravity on the lower wall 550.
  • the longitudinal risers or transitions between the extended 53e plane. by the upper step 54e and the following step 54d, between the steps 54d and 54c, between the steps 54c and 54b and between the step 54b and the lower plane 53a extending the step 54a consist respectively of rectangular inclined planes 56d, 56c, 56b and 56a.
  • These inclined planes are contiguous to the wall 550 against which. gravity rests on one side of the parts.
  • the corridor also includes inclined planes 57d to 57a which form respective transitions between the steps 54e to 54a and which are adjacent to the upper longitudinal wall 551.
  • inclined planes 57d to 57a which form respective transitions between the steps 54e to 54a and which are adjacent to the upper longitudinal wall 551.
  • lesmarches 54e to 54a form between the walls 551 and 550 of the longitudinal parallel strips which are each offset from the previous towards the outlet.
  • the inclined planes are used for the progressive descent of the pieces to different thicknesses between the upper plane 53e and the lower plane 53a of the bottom.
  • other configurations and longitudinal distributions of the inclined planes can be envisaged.
  • the distances between the support wall 550 and the risers and the other wall 551 are -sensibly greater than the five different thicknesses of the acceptable parts.
  • a thin piece P a rolls, starting from the upper bottom plane 53e, successively on the inclined planes 56d to 56a and along the lower step 54a, while a thick piece P e whose thickness is greater than the distance between the wall 550 and the upper riser and at most equal to the width of the corridor 5, rolls first on the upper step 54e then on the inclined planes 57d to 57a.
  • the thicknesses of the pieces are detected, according to the illustrated embodiment, by photosensitive receptors at junction 10a to 10i in combination with the selection by means of the staircase section of the corridor. These receivers are also used to detect the diameters of the parts.
  • the dimension detection device 1 comprises a radiating source 11 and a plurality of photosensitive receivers 10a to 10i such as phototransistors.
  • the radiating source 11 can emit in the visible range or, preferably, in the infrared in order to get rid of any parasitic detection of the light which can come in particular from the entry slot 50 of the parts.
  • the radiating source 11 consists either of a lamp or of a light-emitting diode or of several photo-emissive diodes.
  • the photosensitive receivers can also be replaced by any other electro-optical means such as a camera or charge transfer circuit block (CTD) of the charge coupling type, the operating mode of which will be detailed below.
  • CCD charge transfer circuit block
  • the radiating source 11 is fixed behind a slot 12 which is formed in the upper wall 551 of the corridor and which is perpendicular to the bottom 53 of the corridor and therefore to all the steps 54e to 54a.
  • the phototransistors 10a to 10i are inserted into the support wall 550 and are also aligned vertically from the bottom 53 in the transverse plane. which is perpendicular to the walls 550 and 551 and median to the slot 12. This plane has the line IV-IV in Figs. 2 and 3 and is located at the level of a staircase cross section of the bottom 53.
  • the slot 12 can be replaced by holes which are made in the upper wall 551 of the corridor, aligned vertically with the bottom 53 of the corridor and respectively opposite the phototransistors 10a to 10i.
  • the lower phototransistors 10a to 10d are respectively positioned opposite the midpoints of the risers. It has been assumed according to the illustrated example that five phototransistors 10e to 10i are equally distributed between the upper step 54e and the upper edge of the wall 550. However, in practice, the phototransistors 10a and 10i may be more numerous and be distributed according to diameters of the different acceptable parts. The last phototransistor 10i is generally substantially above the highest level of the acceptable parts rolling in the stepped section in order to detect the false parts having too large a diameter for example.
  • the circuit 2 of the logic unit 6 can deduce the diameter and the thickness of a part.
  • the excitation of a lower phototransistor 10a to 10d by the radiating source 11 indicates that the part has a thickness greater than the distance between the bearing wall 550 and the corresponding riser.
  • the concealment of the other phototransistors indicates the diameter of the part.
  • the high logic signals a to i indicate the respective excitations of the phototransistors 10a to 10i, while the complementary logic signals at to T indicate their respective occultations.
  • the insert P has a thickness between the distances from the wall 550 and the risers of the steps 54c and 54d. She therefore rolls on step 54c. Its diameter is significantly greater than the distance between the phototransistors 10c and 10g. It follows that the phototransistors 10c to 10g will be obscured and that the phototransistors 10a, 10b, 10h and 10i will be excited by the source 11. In this case, a bus 13 of wires connected to the phototransistors transmits to the circuit 2 the detected word ab cdefg h i.
  • the insert P b rolls on the second step 54b and has a diameter substantially greater than the distance between the phototransistors 10b and 10h.
  • the word detected and delivered on bus 13 is a bcdefgh i.
  • the part R has the same dimensions as that shown in FIG. 8, but was drilled centrally to form a washer. Its central hole lets pass the radiation of the source 11 which excites the phototransistor 10e,. Which makes it possible to distinguish the word transmitted on the bus 13, such as a bcd e fgh i.
  • the circuit 2 recognizes in the logic signal -received at least two separate sets of signals at the low level, it deduces therefrom that the inserted part is perforated and therefore unacceptable and must be refused by retraction of the hatch 62 controlled by the ejection solenoid 60.
  • a part may be ejected into the reimbursement receptacle by means controlled manually or electromechanically to move at least the support wall 550 from the corridor.
  • each acceptable part can be characterized by a word identifying the diameter and the thickness.
  • the circuit 2 comprises a read-only memory (ROM) 20 which contains at predetermined addresses nine-bit words identifying respectively the dimensions of all the types of part which the dispensing device can accept.
  • ROM read-only memory
  • This memory is preferably reprogrammable (REPROM) so that the device management company can select the acceptable parts according to the cost of the service or the object to be distributed.
  • the circuit 2 also includes, according to the example illustrated, a shift buffer register 21 with at least nine stages, a time base 22, a read addressing circuit 23 for the read only memory 20 and a logic comparison circuit 24 whose input buses 240, 241 are connected to the parallel outputs of memory 20 and of register 21.
  • Bus 13 transmits the parallel bits of the binary identification words to the time base 22.
  • the time base 22 periodically reads the words on the bus 13 and includes means for comparing two by two successively these words in order to retain only the word having the greatest number of bits at the low logic level between two predetermined times corresponding substantially to the passage of a part between the slot 12 and the phototransistors 10a to 10i.
  • the selected word corresponds to the passage of the diametral section of the room.
  • the time base 22 then orders the next cycle.
  • the retained identification word is recorded in the buffer register 21 via a bus 220.
  • the time base simultaneously controls the reading of the register 21 and the reading of a first acceptable piece identification word in memory 20 through the addressing circuit 23.
  • the comparison circuit 24 transmits the result of the comparison via its output wire 242 to the time base 22. As long as the result of the comparison is negative, the base of time commands the reading of the other acceptable part identification words contained in the read-only memory 20 in order to compare them with the word detected and recorded in the register 21.
  • the time base 22 orders via the wire 61 the rejection of the part introduced by opening the hatch 62. If a comparison is positive, the reading cycle of the memory 20 is stopped, and a address is transmitted via bus 200 from memory 20 to an alloy memory 40 contained in circuit 4. Each part identification word contained in memory 20 is memorized with an address word from memory 40 which characterizes the alloy of the acceptable part having the dimensions corresponding to the identification words detected and stored in circuit 2.
  • the address words of the memory 40 are unused.
  • FIG. 4A and 4B Another embodiment uses, as a photosensitive reception means included in the detection device of dimensions 1, a CCD strip with charge coupling circuits already mentioned.
  • This embodiment is shown in Figs. 4A and 4B.
  • the phototransistors 10a to 10i are replaced by the N cells 14 1 to 14 N of the CCD strip which are connected to the bus 13.
  • the number N is greater than that of the phototransistors due to the very integrated structure of the strip .
  • the vertical definition with a CCD bar can reach at least a tenth of a millimeter.
  • the bar is also placed in the support wall 550 vertically from the bottom 53 of the corridor 5 and opposite the slot 12.
  • the stair treads 54a to 54d are replaced by an inclined plane 58 which makes an acute angle pre-terminated ⁇ with the lower support wall 550.
  • the inclined plane 58 which makes an acute angle pre-terminated ⁇ with the lower support wall 550.
  • the concealed cells such as from cell 14 3 for a thin piece P f having a thickness ⁇ e f (Fig. 4A) or from cell 14 5 for a thicker piece P g having a thickness ⁇ e g (Fig. 4B) determine the diameter of the part.
  • the excited lower cells such as 14 1 and 14 2 for the part P f or 141 to 14 4 for the part P g directly determine the thickness ⁇ e of the part according to the formula: where ⁇ l is the distance between the bottom of the part and the top of the angle a, i.e. the length along which lower cells are excited.
  • a is chosen equal to ⁇ / 4 in order to facilitate the calculations since in this case:
  • the dimension comparison circuit validates the diameter of the part as before. In addition, it more precisely directly validates the thickness of the part according to the formula: by comparison of the word formed by the excitation of the lower CCD cells and of stored words identifying the thicknesses of the acceptable parts for a predetermined diameter.
  • This embodiment has the advantage of giving the room selector an adaptation to all types of acceptable rooms without any mechanical modification - unlike the realization with a staircase corridor where each step corresponds to a room thickness -.
  • This adaptation is obtained only by programming the table of thicknesses and diameters of the parts stored in the reprogrammable memory (REPROM) of circuit 2.
  • Another advantage of the CCD strip consists in that the excitation of the cells is sensitive to the relief of the part which makes it possible to "photograph" a slice of the part and thus to detect the false parts having however acceptable dimensions.
  • the detection device 3 comprises, as is known, two face-to-face coils 30 and 31 which are respectively inserted in the longitudinal walls 550 and 551 of the runway 5 above the lower plane 53a.
  • the coils 30 and 31 are electromagnetically coupled. Their common axis is perpendicular to the walls 550 and 551 and is preferably at the level of the mean center of the parts rolling on the plane 53a, for example equal to that of the upper plane 53e.
  • the circuit 4 comprises, in addition to the memory for the identification words of alloys already cited 40, a Wheatstone bridge 41, an amplification circuit 42, an integrator circuit 43 and a threshold comparator circuit 44.
  • the common terminal 410 of two contiguous branches of the impedance bridge 41 is connected to the direct input 420 + of an amplifier 420 which is contained in the amplification circuit 42, through an input resistance 421.
  • Each of these two branches comprises in parallel a plurality of parallel circuits 451 - 461 to 454 - 464, 455 - 465 to 458 - 468, here four in number for example.
  • Each of these circuits includes a complex impedance 451 to 458 - which can be adjustable - and an analog switch 461 to 468 of the contact type controlled by a relay, or of the transistor type, or of the "analog switch" CD 4066 type of RCA for example.
  • 11 - comprises, in series with the four parallel circuits 451 - 461 to 454 - 464, the two coils 30 and 31 connected in series, as well as a complex impedance 411 which may include a thermistor.
  • the second previous branch - below in Fig. 11 - comprises two impedances 413 and 414 which are preferably resistive and capacitive respectively and which are in series with the other four parallel circuits 455-465 to 458-468.
  • the voltage of a generator 417 at a predetermined frequency, suitable for the discrimination of the alloys of the parts.
  • the third and fourth branches of the Wheatstone bridge 41 respectively include impedances 418 and 419 which are preferably resistive and capacitive respectively and which are connected to ground.
  • the reverse terminal 420_ of the amplifier 420 is connected to a resistor. 422 brought to ground and to a feedback resistance 423 connected to the output 424 of the amplifier 420.
  • the integrator circuit 43 includes two resistors 430 and 431, the common terminal of which is connected to a capacitor 432 brought to ground.
  • the other terminal of the resistor 430 is connected to the output 424 of the amplifier 420.
  • the other terminal of the resistor 431 is connected to one of the inputs 440 of the voltage comparator 411 contained in the circuit 44.
  • the threshold comparator circuit 44 also includes between the positive supply terminal and the ground a resistor 442 and a potentiometer 443 whose common terminal is connected to a resistor 444.
  • the other terminal of the resistor 444 is connected to a capacitor 445 brought to ground and to the other input 446 of comparator 441.
  • the output of comparator 441 is connected to the wire 61 for controlling the electromagnet 60 for ejecting rejected parts.
  • the potentiometer 443 is adjusted so that the voltage at terminal 446 of the comparator is equal to the equilibrium voltage of bridge 41 applied to the other terminal 440 through circuits 42 and 43.
  • Each group of analog switches 461 to 464, 465 to 468 is controlled by a four-wire output bus 401, 402 from the alloy identification word memory 40.
  • the adjustable impedances 451 to 458 are regulated so that, for certain combinations of closings and openings of switches 461 to 468, that is to say predetermined combinations of impedances 451 to 458, each of the alloys or materials characterizing all the acceptable parts, introduced between the coils 30 and 31 indicate the balance of the bridge, for example by an output signal at the high level on the wire 61.
  • a combination of closings and openings of the switches or impedances corresponds a predetermined alloy and a word alloy identification in reprogrammable read-only memory 40 (REPRCM).
  • this memory 20 delivers on the bus 200, after a period of time corresponding substantially to the travel time of the part between the devices 1 and 3, the address of the alloy identification word which is contained in the memory 40 and which corresponds to the alloy of an acceptable part having the dimensions detected. Then the switches 461 to 468 are controlled via the buses 401 and 402 / positioned to detect the corresponding alloy. If the inserted part causes the balance of the bridge 41 during its passage between the coils 30 and 31, the comparator 441 actuates the ejection electromagnet 60 (FIG.
  • the circuit 4 fulfills the functions analogous to the circuit 2.
  • the circuit 4 comprises a time base such as 22 which successively reads the alloy identification words in the memory 40, until the time base detects a low signal at the output of the compass rator 441, which validates the document introduced. Otherwise, for all the combinations of closings and openings of the analog switches 461 to 468 stored in the memory 40, no balance of the bridge 41 has been reported and the time base or the comparator 441 maintains the retraction of the hatch 62 to reject the unacceptable part.
  • the alloy detection device 3 can precede the dimension detection device 1 along the path of the parts in the corridor 5.
  • the circuit 4 comprises a time base such as 22 which cyclically reads the memory 40 until a balance of the bridge 41 is achieved. In response to this balance, the memory 40 addresses the memory 20 so that a comparator such as 24 compares the word received on the bus 13 with that addressed in the memory 20. As before, if the bridge is balanced and if, for this balance, the result of the comparison in the comparator 24 is positive, the hatch 62 is actuated to close the end of the corridor.
  • the circuit 2 for recognizing the dimensions can be organized around a microprocessor 25, as shown in FIG. 12.
  • the microprocessor comprises a random access memory RAM which is used for successive two-by-two comparisons of the words detected on the bus 13 during the passage of the part.
  • Circuit 2 also includes a reprogrammable memory 26 and an input / output interface. In the memory 26 are pre-recorded the words identifying the acceptable dimensions of the parts and the instructions corresponding to the cycle of comparisons, as described above with reference to FIG. 10.
  • the circuits 25, 26 and 27 are conventionally linked together by a unidirectional bus 28 for the addresses originating from the microprocessor 25 and by a bidirectional bus 29 for the instructions and the data
  • the interface 27 is connected to the bus 13 connected to the means photoreceptives 10a to 10i (Fig. 5) or 14 1 to 14 N (Figs.4A and 4B), to the bus 200 serving the alloy identification word memory 40 (Fig. 11), to the control wire 61 of the electromagnet 60 of the retractable flap 62 (Fig. 1) and directly, in this case, at the output of the voltage comparator 44 (Fig. 11).
  • the interface 27 can serve by a bus 270 other devices, such as displays for example.
  • the memory 40 (FIG. 11) can also be produced in the form of a microprocessor.

Landscapes

  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Testing Of Coins (AREA)
  • Geophysics And Detection Of Objects (AREA)
  • Length Measuring Devices By Optical Means (AREA)

Abstract

Le sélecteur comprend des récepteurs photosensibles (1) à la verticale du couloir de roulement des pièces (5) dont l'occultation et l'éclairement permettent d'identifier le diamètre d'une pièce, et deux bobines (3) de part et d'autre du couloir permettant d'identifier l'alliage d'une pièce. Selon l'invention, l'épaisseur est également reconnue grâce à la section transversale en escalier du fond du couloir dont les contremarches sont en face de photorécepteurs qui transmettent un mot identifiant le diamètre et l'épaisseur de la pièce introduite. Ce mot est comparé à des mots mémorisés représentatifs des dimensions de pièces acceptables. Si les dimensions sont acceptables, une combinaison d'impédances d'un pont de Wheatstone contenant les bobines (3) est sélectionnée en fonction de l'alliage correspondant aux dimensions acceptables. Si le pont est équilibré pour cette combinaison lors du passage de la pièce entre les bobines, la piece est acceptée.The selector comprises photosensitive receivers (1) vertical to the track of the parts (5) whose concealment and lighting allow the diameter of a part to be identified, and two coils (3) on both sides. 'other one of the corridor allowing to identify the alloy of a part. According to the invention, the thickness is also recognized thanks to the staircase cross section of the bottom of the corridor, the risers of which are opposite photoreceptors which transmit a word identifying the diameter and the thickness of the piece introduced. This word is compared with memorized words representative of the dimensions of acceptable parts. If the dimensions are acceptable, a combination of impedances of a Wheatstone bridge containing the coils (3) is selected according to the alloy corresponding to the acceptable dimensions. If the bridge is balanced for this combination during the passage of the part between the coils, the part is accepted.

Description

La présente invention concerne un sélecteur multipièce de monnaie comprenant un couloir ayant un fond incliné pour le roulement des pièces et une paroi inclinée pour l'appui d'une face des pièces, des moyens comportant des moyens photoréceptifs et des moyens photoémissifs de part et d'autre du couloir pour reconnaître les dimensions des pièces, et des moyens comportant deux bobines de part et d'autre du couloir pour reconnaître les alliages des pièces.The present invention relates to a multi-coin coin selector comprising a corridor having an inclined bottom for rolling the coins and an inclined wall for supporting one face of the coins, means comprising photoreceptive means and photoemissive means on both sides. 'other of the corridor to recognize the dimensions of the parts, and means comprising two coils on either side of the corridor to recognize the alloys of the parts.

De tels sélecteurs de pièces de monnaie sont destinés à des appareils distributeurs automatiques d'objets ou de services. Les sélecteurs multipièces tels que décrits dans les FR-A-2 461 987 et FR-A-2 466 055 comprennent, en tant que moyens de reconnaissance de dimensions des pièces, également deux bobines de part et d'autre du couloir de roulement des pièces. Ces bobines ont des diamètres tels que l'extrémité supérieure d'une pièce ayant le diamètre minimum ne traverse que faiblement leur champ électromagnétique et qu'une pièce ayant le diamètre maximum traverse complètement ce champ électromagnétique. L'une des bobines dite oscillante est reliée à un circuit oscillant qui fournit un signal à fréquence élevée de l'ordre de 100 kHz. L'autre bobine dite réceptrice transmet à des moyens de-comparaison de tensions une tension qui est proportionnelle à l'intensité du flux magnétique que traverse la partie supérieure de chaque pièce. Des tensions de référence représentatives des diamètres des différents types de pièces acceptables sont comparées à la tension transmise par la bobine réceptrice en vue d'en déduire si la pièce doit être acceptée, auquel cas son diamètre est compris entre les diamètres minimum et maximum ou être refusée dans le cas contraire.Such coin selectors are intended for automatic devices for distributing objects or services. The multi-room selectors as described in FR-A-2 461 987 and FR-A-2 466 055 include, as means of recognizing the dimensions of the parts, also two coils on either side of the running lane of the rooms. These coils have diameters such that the upper end of a part having the minimum diameter crosses only slightly their electromagnetic field and a part having the maximum diameter completely crosses this electromagnetic field. One of the so-called oscillating coils is connected to an oscillating circuit which supplies a high frequency signal of the order of 100 kHz. The other so-called receiving coil transmits to voltage comparison means a voltage which is proportional to the intensity of the magnetic flux through which the upper part of each part passes. Reference voltages representative of the diameters of the different types of acceptable parts are compared with the voltage transmitted by the take-up reel in order to deduce whether the part must be accepted, in which case its diameter is between the minimum and maximum diameters or be otherwise refused.

Selon les demandes de brevet précédentes, les moyens de reconnaissance d'alliages des pièces font également appel au même principe de comparaison de tensions.According to the preceding patent applications, the means for recognizing alloys of the parts also use the same principle of comparison of tensions.

Un autre sélecteur de pièces de monnaie est divulgué dans la FR-A-2 448 752. Ce sélecteur ne sélectionne qu'un seul type de pièces, c'est-à-dire ne peut admettre que des pièces ayant un diamètre prédéterminé, constituées par un alliage ou matériau prédéterminé.Another coin selector is disclosed in FR-A-2 448 752. This selector selects only one type of coin, that is to say can only admit coins having a predetermined diameter, constituted by a predetermined alloy or material.

Les moyens de reconnaissance d'alliages reposent sur le principe décrit précédemment. Ils comprennent également deux bobines face à face. L'une des bobines est excitée par un générateur de fréquence. L'autre bobine reçoit un signal induit dont l'amplitude est comparée à une tension prédéterminée en vue d'accepter la pièce introduite entre les bobines lorsque l'amplitude est inférieure à la tension prédéterminéeAlloy recognition means are based on the principle described previously. They also include two coils facing each other. One of the coils is excited by a frequency generator. The other coil receives an induced signal, the amplitude of which is compared with a predetermined voltage in order to accept the part inserted between the coils when the amplitude is less than the predetermined voltage.

Les moyens de reconnaissance de dimensions des pièces selon la FR-A-2 448 752 comprennent deux paires de lampe et de. photo - transistor qui sont respectivement placées à une distance sensiblement égale au diamètre du type de pièce acceptable. Si l'un des phototransistors ou les deux sont illuminés, la pièce introduite n'a donc pas le diamètre requis et est rejetée.The means for recognizing the dimensions of the parts according to FR-A-2 448 752 comprise two pairs of lamps and. photo - transistor which are respectively placed at a distance substantially equal to the diameter of the type of acceptable part. If one or both of the phototransistors are illuminated, the inserted part does not have the required diameter and is rejected.

Les sélecteurs connus précédents n'adoptent ainsi comme critères de sélection que le diamètre et l'alliage des pièces. Si une pièce ayant un diamètre et un alliage requis est introduite, elle sera acceptée quelle que soit son épaisseur. Ceci offre encore une perspective non négligeable aux fraudeurs pour introduire des pièces fausses dans l'appareil distributeur. En outre, les moyens de reconnaissance de diamètre selon la FR-A-2 466 055 ne permettent d'accepter des pièces ayant un diamètre compris dans une plage prédéterminée relativement petite. Si l'appareil distributeur doit accepter des pièces ayant une différence de diamètre très grande, la sensibilité de mesure pour distinguer les diamètres nécessite un réglage très précis et le nombre de diamètres exige autant de circuits de comparaison. Cette dernière remarque est également valable pour les circuits de comparaison inclus dans les moyens de reconnaissance d'alliages.The previous known selectors thus adopt as selection criteria only the diameter and the alloy of the parts. If a part with a required diameter and alloy is introduced, it will be accepted regardless of its thickness. This also offers a non-negligible prospect for fraudsters to introduce false coins into the dispensing device. In addition, the diameter recognition means according to FR-A-2 466 055 do not allow the acceptance of parts having a diameter included in a predetermined relatively small range. If the dispenser has to accept parts with a very large difference in diameter, the measurement sensitivity to distinguish the diameters requires very precise adjustment and the number of diameters requires as many comparison circuits. This last remark is also valid for the comparison circuits included in the alloy recognition means.

La présente invention a pour but de fournir un sélecteur multipièce de monnaie qui permet de sélectionner les pièces notamment en fonction de leurs épaisseurs. En outre les moyens de comparaison respectifs inclus aussi bien dans les moyens de reconnaissance de dimensions que dans les moyens de reconnaissance d'alliages sont uniques et utilisés pour tous les types de pièces.The object of the present invention is to provide a multi-coin selector which makes it possible to select the coins in particular according to their thicknesses. In addition, the respective comparison means included both in the size recognition means and in the alloy recognition means are unique and used for all types of parts.

A ces fins, un sélecteur multipièce de monnaie du genre décrit dans l'entrée en matière est caractérisé en ce que le fond du couloir a devant les moyens de reconnaissance de dimensions une section transversale en escalier dont la marche inférieure est adjacente à la paroi inclinée du couloir. Selon un mode de réalisation, les moyens photoréceptifs sont constitués par des photorécepteurs tels que des circuits à transfert de charge/des phototransistors respectivement en face des contremarches d'escalier et susceptibles de recevoir la radiation émise par les moyens photoémissifs.For these purposes, a multi-coin selector of the kind described in the introduction is characterized in that the bottom of the corridor has in front of the dimension recognition means a stepped cross section whose bottom step is adjacent to the inclined wall from the hall. According to one embodiment, the photoreceptive means consist of photoreceptors such as transfer circuits load / phototransistors respectively opposite the stair risers and capable of receiving the radiation emitted by the photoemissive means.

La section en escalier du fond permet ainsi de différencier les épaisseurs de pièces acceptables. L'occultation de photorécepteurs en face des contremarches et d'autres photorécepteurs au dessus de l'escalier produit ainsi un mot binaire identifiant non seulement le diamètre mais également l'épaisseur de chaque type de pièce acceptable. La reconnaissance de dimensions acceptables est obtenue par des moyens reliés aux photorécepteurs pour détecter un mot d'identification du diamètre et de l'épaisseur de chaque pièce introduite dans le couloir, une mémoire de mots identifiant respectivement les dimensions de pièces acceptables et des moyens pour comparer chaque mot détecté avec les mots mémorisés en vue d'accepter ou de refuser la pièce introduite.The staircase section of the bottom thus makes it possible to differentiate the thicknesses of acceptable pieces. The concealment of photoreceptors opposite the risers and other photoreceptors above the stairs thus produces a binary word identifying not only the diameter but also the thickness of each type of acceptable part. Recognition of acceptable dimensions is obtained by means connected to the photoreceptors to detect an identification word for the diameter and thickness of each piece introduced into the corridor, a word memory identifying respectively the dimensions of acceptable pieces and means for compare each detected word with the memorized words in order to accept or reject the introduced document.

Selon un autre aspect de l'invention, les moyens de reconnaissance d'alliages comprennent un pont d'impédance dont deux branches adjacentes comprennent chacune des impédances parallèles et dont l'une de ces deux branches inclut en série les deux bobines, des moyens de comparaison de tensions pour détecter l'équilibre du pont en vue de l'acceptation ou du refus d'une pièce passant entre les deux bobines, une mémoire de mots identifiant respectivement les alliages de pièces acceptables et des moyens de commutation recevant les mots d'identification d'alliage pour sélectionner les combinaisons d'impédances dans le pont correspondant à son équilibre pour tous les types de pièces acceptables.According to another aspect of the invention, the alloy recognition means comprise an impedance bridge of which two adjacent branches each include parallel impedances and one of these two branches of which includes the two coils in series, means for comparison of voltages to detect the balance of the bridge with a view to accepting or refusing a part passing between the two coils, a word memory identifying respectively the alloys of acceptable parts and switching means receiving the words alloy identification to select combinations of impedances in the bridge corresponding to its balance for all types of acceptable parts.

D'autres avantages de la présente invention apparaîtront plus clairement à la lecture de la description qui suit de plusieurs modes de réalisation en référence aux dessins annexés correspondants, dans lesquels :

  • - la Fig. 1 est une vue en coupe longitudinale schématique le long du couloir de roulement montrant l'emplacement des différents moyens généraux d'un sélecteur multipièce selon l'invention ;
  • - la Fig. 2 est une vue de côté du couloir en marche d'escalier ;
  • - la Fig. 3 est une vue de dessus du fond du couloir en marche d'escalier ;
  • - la Fig. 4 est une vue en coupe le long de la ligne IV-IV des Figs.2 et 3;
  • - les Figs. 4A et 4B sont des vues en coupe analogues à la Fig. 4 du fond du couloir avec un plan incliné selon un autre mode de réalisation ;
  • - la Fig. 5 est une vue transversale analogue à la Fig. 4 montrant le roulement de pièces mince et épaisse sur le fond en escalier ;
  • la Fig. 6 est une vue de côté schématique du couloir en escalier montrant le positionnement des récepteurs photosensibles ;
  • - les Figs. 7 à 9 sont des vues transversales analogues à la Fig. 4 montrant le roulement de deux pièces de diamètres et épaisseurs différents ainsi que d'une rondelle sur le fond du couloir en escalier;
  • - la Fig. 10 est un bloc-diagramme du circuit de comparaison de dimensions
  • - la Fig. 11 est un bloc-diagramme du circuit de comparaison d'alliages; et
  • - la Fig. 12 est un bloc-diagramme du circuit de comparaison de dimensions organisé autour d'un microprocesseur selon une autre réalisation.
Other advantages of the present invention will appear more clearly on reading the following description of several embodiments with reference to the corresponding appended drawings, in which:
  • - Fig. 1 is a schematic longitudinal sectional view along the running corridor showing the location of the various general means of a multi-room selector according to the invention;
  • - Fig. 2 is a side view of the stairway corridor;
  • - Fig. 3 is a top view of the bottom of the stairway corridor;
  • - Fig. 4 is a sectional view along the line IV-IV of Figs.2 and 3;
  • - Figs. 4A and 4B are sectional views similar to FIG. 4 from the bottom of the corridor with an inclined plane according to another embodiment;
  • - Fig. 5 is a transverse view similar to FIG. 4 showing the rolling of thin and thick pieces on the staircase bottom;
  • Fig. 6 is a schematic side view of the staircase corridor showing the positioning of the photosensitive receivers;
  • - Figs. 7 to 9 are transverse views similar to FIG. 4 showing the rolling of two pieces of different diameters and thicknesses as well as a washer on the bottom of the staircase corridor;
  • - Fig. 10 is a block diagram of the dimension comparison circuit
  • - Fig. 11 is a block diagram of the alloy comparison circuit; and
  • - Fig. 12 is a block diagram of the dimension comparison circuit organized around a microprocessor according to another embodiment.

On a représenté schématiquement à la Fig. 1 un sélecteur pour des pièces ou jetons ayant des diamètres, épaisseurs et alliages différents. Il inclut des moyens de reconnaissance de dimensions 1-2 des pièces P et des moyens de reconnaissance d'alliages 3-4 des pièces P. Chacun de ces moyens comprend un dispositif de détection des pièces 1,3 qui est localisé le long du couloir 5 pour le roulement par gravité des pièces P, et un circuit 2,4 associé au dispositif de détection respectif 1,3 pour comparer la dimension ou l'alliage détecté à ceux préenregistrés. Les circuits 2 et 4 sont inclus dans une unité logique de commande 6 qui détermine en fonction des résultats des comparaisons si une pièce introduite doit être acceptée et encaissée ou être refusée et remboursée.There is shown schematically in FIG. 1 a selector for coins or tokens having different diameters, thicknesses and alloys. It includes means for recognizing dimensions 1-2 of the pieces P and means for recognizing alloys 3-4 of the pieces P. Each of these means comprises a device for detecting the pieces 1.3 which is located along the corridor. 5 for the gravity bearing of the parts P, and a circuit 2.4 associated with the respective detection device 1.3 to compare the dimension or the alloy detected with those prerecorded. The circuits 2 and 4 are included in a logic control unit 6 which determines, according to the results of the comparisons, whether an introduced part must be accepted and cashed or be refused and reimbursed.

Le sélecteur multipièce est localisé dans un appareil distributeur d'objets ou de services connu. On ne mentionnera dans la suite que les éléments de cet appareil se rapportant directement au sélecteur multipièce.The multi-room selector is located in a known device for distributing objects or services. We will only mention in the following the elements of this device which relate directly to the multi-room selector.

Comme montré à la Fig. 1, le couloir de roulement 5 présente une entrée 50 qui est constituée par la fente unique d'introduction des pièces, et une double sortie 51-52. Cette dernière est constituée par une première sortie 51 dite de pièces acceptables au dessus du réceptacle d'encaissement de l'appareil distributeur et par une seconde sortie 52 de pièces refusées au dessus du réceptacle de remboursement de l'appareil distributeur. La sélection en sortie du couloir entre les pièces acceptables et refusées est obtenue au moyen d'un électro-aimant 60 qui est commandé à travers une liaison conductrice 61 par l'unité 6. L'électro-aimant 60 maintient ouvert le fond du couloir, à travers une trappe escamotable 62, tant que les comparaisons relatives soit aux dimensions, soit à l'alliage, sont négatives.As shown in Fig. 1, the runway 5 has an inlet 50 which is constituted by the single slot for introducing the parts, and a double outlet 51-52. The latter consists of a first outlet 51 known as acceptable coins above the collection receptacle of the dispensing apparatus and by a second outlet 52 of rejected coins above the reimbursement receptacle of the dispensing apparatus. The selection at the end of the corridor between the rooms acceptable and refused is obtained by means of an electromagnet 60 which is controlled through a conductive link 61 by the unit 6. The electromagnet 60 keeps the end of the corridor open, through a retractable hatch 62, both that the comparisons relating either to the dimensions or to the alloy are negative.

Le couloir de roulement 5 a une section générale rectangulaire et présente un fond descendant 53 de l'entrée 50 vers la sortie 51-52. - Selon le mode de réalisation illustré, à partir de l'entrée 50, une pièce traverse d'abord le dispositif de détection de dimensions 1 puis le dispositif de détection d'alliages 3.The runway 5 has a generally rectangular section and has a descending bottom 53 from the inlet 50 towards the outlet 51-52. - According to the illustrated embodiment, from the input 50, a part first passes through the detection device of dimensions 1 then the detection device of alloys 3.

En se référant aux Figs. 2 à 4, le fond 53 du couloir de roulement a une largeur égale à la plus grande épaisseur des pièces acceptables. Le plan 53e du fond du côté de l'entrée 50 est à un niveau supérieur au plan 53a du fond traversant le dispositif 2 jusqu'à la sortie 51-52. Entre les deux plans parallèles 53e et 53a à même inclinaison, le fond présente une section transversale en escalier droit, au travers du dispositif 1, comme montré à la Fig. 4. On a supposé que la section en escalier comprenait trois marches intermédiaires 54b, 54c et 54d entre une marche inférieure 54a et une marche supérieure 54e. Les marches 54a et 54e sont respectivement coplanaires aux plans de fond 53a et 53e.Referring to Figs. 2 to 4, the bottom 53 of the raceway has a width equal to the greatest thickness of the acceptable parts. The bottom plane 53e on the side of the inlet 50 is at a level higher than the bottom plane 53a passing through the device 2 to the outlet 51-52. Between the two parallel planes 53e and 53a with the same inclination, the bottom has a cross section in straight staircase, through the device 1, as shown in FIG. 4. It was assumed that the staircase section included three intermediate steps 54b, 54c and 54d between a lower step 54a and an upper step 54e. The steps 54a and 54e are respectively coplanar with the bottom planes 53a and 53e.

Par ailleurs, les parois longitudinales 550 et 551 du couloir 5 sont inclinées par rapport à la verticale afin que toutes les pièces s'appuient par gravité sur la paroi inférieure 550. Comme montré à la Fig. 3, les contremarches longitudinales ou transitions entre le plan 53e prolongé. par la marche supérieure 54e et la marche suivante 54d, entre les marches 54d et 54c, entre les marches 54c et 54b et entre la marche 54b et le plan inférieur 53a prolongeant la marche 54a sont constituées respectivement de plans inclinés rectangulaires 56d, 56c, 56b et 56a. Ces plans inclinés sont contigus à la paroi 550 contre laquelle. s'appuie par gravité l'une des faces des pièces. Après le dispositif 1 et avant le dispositif 3, le couloir comprend également des plans inclinés 57d à 57a qui forment des transitions respectives entre les marches 54e à 54a et qui sont adjacents à la paroi longitudinale supérieure 551. Comme on le voit sur la Fig. 3, lesmarches 54e à 54a forment entre les parois 551 et 550 des bandes parallèles longitudinales qui sont décalées chacune par rapport à la précédente vers la sortie.Furthermore, the longitudinal walls 550 and 551 of the passage 5 are inclined relative to the vertical so that all the parts are supported by gravity on the lower wall 550. As shown in FIG. 3, the longitudinal risers or transitions between the extended 53e plane. by the upper step 54e and the following step 54d, between the steps 54d and 54c, between the steps 54c and 54b and between the step 54b and the lower plane 53a extending the step 54a consist respectively of rectangular inclined planes 56d, 56c, 56b and 56a. These inclined planes are contiguous to the wall 550 against which. gravity rests on one side of the parts. After the device 1 and before the device 3, the corridor also includes inclined planes 57d to 57a which form respective transitions between the steps 54e to 54a and which are adjacent to the upper longitudinal wall 551. As can be seen in FIG. 3, lesmarches 54e to 54a form between the walls 551 and 550 of the longitudinal parallel strips which are each offset from the previous towards the outlet.

Les plans inclinés servent à la descente progressive des pièces à épaisseurs différentes entre le plan supérieur 53e et le plan inférieur 53a du fond. Bien entendu, d'autres configurations et répartitions longitudinales des plans inclinés peuvent être envisagées.The inclined planes are used for the progressive descent of the pieces to different thicknesses between the upper plane 53e and the lower plane 53a of the bottom. Of course, other configurations and longitudinal distributions of the inclined planes can be envisaged.

D'une manière générale, les dimensions .aussi bien en hauteur qu'en largeur des marches sont différentes.In general, the dimensions, both in height and in width of the steps are different.

Les distances entre la paroi d'appui 550 et les contremarches et l'autre paroi 551 sont -sensiblement supérieures aux cinq épaisseurs différentes des pièces acceptables. Par exemple, comme montré à la Fig. 5, une pièce mince Pa roule, à partir du plan de fond supérieur 53e, successivement sur les plans inclinés 56d à 56a et le long de la marche inférieure 54a, tandis qu'une pièce épaisse Pe dont l'épaisseur est supérieure à la distance entre la paroi 550 et la contremarche supérieure et au plus égale à la largeur du couloir 5, roule d'abord sur la marche supérieure 54e puis sur les plans inclinés 57d à 57a.The distances between the support wall 550 and the risers and the other wall 551 are -sensibly greater than the five different thicknesses of the acceptable parts. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, a thin piece P a rolls, starting from the upper bottom plane 53e, successively on the inclined planes 56d to 56a and along the lower step 54a, while a thick piece P e whose thickness is greater than the distance between the wall 550 and the upper riser and at most equal to the width of the corridor 5, rolls first on the upper step 54e then on the inclined planes 57d to 57a.

Les épaisseurs des pièces sont détectées, selon la réalisation illustrée, par des récepteurs photosensibles à jonction 10a à 10i en combinaison avec la sélection au moyen de la section en escalier du couloir. Ces récepteurs sont également utilisés pour détecter les diamètres des pièces.The thicknesses of the pieces are detected, according to the illustrated embodiment, by photosensitive receptors at junction 10a to 10i in combination with the selection by means of the staircase section of the corridor. These receivers are also used to detect the diameters of the parts.

En se référant aux Figs. 2 à 6, le dispositif de détection de dimensions 1 comprend une source rayonnante 11 et une pluralité de récepteurs photosensibles 10a à 10i tels que des phototransistors. La source rayonnante 11 peut émettre dans le domaine visible ou, de préférence, dans l'infrarouge afin de s'affranchir de toute détection parasite de la lumière pouvant provenir notamment de la fente d'entrée 50 des pièces. La source rayonnante 11 consiste ou en une lampe ou en une diode électroluminescente ou en plusieurs diodes photo-émissives. Les récepteurs photosensibles peuvent être également remplacés par tous autres moyens électro-optiques tels qu'une caméra ou barrette à circuits à transfert de charge (CTD) du type à couplage de charge dont le mode de fonctionnement sera détaillé plus loin. La source rayonnante 11 est fixée en arrière d'une fente 12 qui est pratiquée dans la paroi supérieure 551 du couloir et qui est perpendiculaire au fond 53 du couloir et donc à toutes les marches 54e à 54a. Les phototransistors 10a à 10i sont insérés dans la paroi d'appui 550 et sont alignés également à la verticale du fond '53 dans le plan transversal. qui est perpendiculaire aux parois 550 et 551 et médian à la fente 12. Ce plan a pour trace la ligne IV-IV dans les Figs. 2 et 3 et se trouve au niveau d'une section transversale en escalier du fond 53. La fente 12 peut être remplacée par des trous qui sont pratiqués dans la paroi supérieure 551 du couloir, alignés à la verticale du fond 53 du couloir et respectivement en face des phototransistors 10a à 10i.Referring to Figs. 2 to 6, the dimension detection device 1 comprises a radiating source 11 and a plurality of photosensitive receivers 10a to 10i such as phototransistors. The radiating source 11 can emit in the visible range or, preferably, in the infrared in order to get rid of any parasitic detection of the light which can come in particular from the entry slot 50 of the parts. The radiating source 11 consists either of a lamp or of a light-emitting diode or of several photo-emissive diodes. The photosensitive receivers can also be replaced by any other electro-optical means such as a camera or charge transfer circuit block (CTD) of the charge coupling type, the operating mode of which will be detailed below. The radiating source 11 is fixed behind a slot 12 which is formed in the upper wall 551 of the corridor and which is perpendicular to the bottom 53 of the corridor and therefore to all the steps 54e to 54a. The phototransistors 10a to 10i are inserted into the support wall 550 and are also aligned vertically from the bottom 53 in the transverse plane. which is perpendicular to the walls 550 and 551 and median to the slot 12. This plane has the line IV-IV in Figs. 2 and 3 and is located at the level of a staircase cross section of the bottom 53. The slot 12 can be replaced by holes which are made in the upper wall 551 of the corridor, aligned vertically with the bottom 53 of the corridor and respectively opposite the phototransistors 10a to 10i.

Comme montré à la Fig. 6, les phototransistors inférieurs 10a à 10d sont respectivement positionnés en face des milieux des contremarches. On a supposé selon l'exemple illustré que cinq phototransistors 10e à 10i étaient équirépartis entre la marche supérieure 54e et le bord supérieur .de la paroi 550. Cependant, en pratique, les phototransistors 10a et 10i peuvent être plus nombreux et être répartis en fonction des diamètres des différentes pièces acceptables. Le dernier phototransistor 10i est généralement sensiblement au.dessus du plus haut niveau des pièces acceptables roulant dans la section en escalier afin de détecter les fausses pièces ayant un diamètre trop grand par exemple.As shown in Fig. 6, the lower phototransistors 10a to 10d are respectively positioned opposite the midpoints of the risers. It has been assumed according to the illustrated example that five phototransistors 10e to 10i are equally distributed between the upper step 54e and the upper edge of the wall 550. However, in practice, the phototransistors 10a and 10i may be more numerous and be distributed according to diameters of the different acceptable parts. The last phototransistor 10i is generally substantially above the highest level of the acceptable parts rolling in the stepped section in order to detect the false parts having too large a diameter for example.

Ainsi en fonction de l'occultation et de l'excitation des phototransistors, le circuit 2 de l'unité logique 6 peut en déduire le diamètre et l'épaisseur d'une pièce. L'excitation d'un phototransistor inférieur 10a à 10d par la source rayonnate 11 indique que la pièce a une épaisseur supérieure à la distance entre la paroi d'appui 550 et la contremarche correspondante. Entre le plus haut phototransistor inférieur excité 10a à 10d et le plus bas phototransistor excité, l'occultation des autres phototransistors indique le diamètre de la pièce.Thus depending on the occultation and excitation of the phototransistors, the circuit 2 of the logic unit 6 can deduce the diameter and the thickness of a part. The excitation of a lower phototransistor 10a to 10d by the radiating source 11 indicates that the part has a thickness greater than the distance between the bearing wall 550 and the corresponding riser. Between the highest excited lower phototransistor 10a to 10d and the lowest excited phototransistor, the concealment of the other phototransistors indicates the diameter of the part.

Trois exemples de pièces à détecter sont montrés dans les Figs. 7 à 9. Les signaux logiques hauts a à i indiquent les excitations respectives des phototransistors 10a à 10i, tandis que les signaux logiques complémentaires a à T indiquent leurs occultations respectives.Three examples of parts to be detected are shown in Figs. 7 to 9. The high logic signals a to i indicate the respective excitations of the phototransistors 10a to 10i, while the complementary logic signals at to T indicate their respective occultations.

Selon la Fig. 7, la pièce introduite P a une épaisseur comprise entre les distances de la paroi 550 et les contremarches des marches 54c et 54d. Elle roule donc sur la marche 54c. Son diamètre est sensiblement supérieur à la distance entre les phototransistors 10c et 10g. Il en résulte que les phototransistors 10c à 10g seront occultés et que les phototransistors 10a, 10b, 10h et 10i seront excités par la source 11. Dans ce cas, un bus 13 de fils reliés aux phototransistors transmet au circuit 2 le mot détecté a b c d e f g h i.According to FIG. 7, the insert P has a thickness between the distances from the wall 550 and the risers of the steps 54c and 54d. She therefore rolls on step 54c. Its diameter is significantly greater than the distance between the phototransistors 10c and 10g. It follows that the phototransistors 10c to 10g will be obscured and that the phototransistors 10a, 10b, 10h and 10i will be excited by the source 11. In this case, a bus 13 of wires connected to the phototransistors transmits to the circuit 2 the detected word ab cdefg h i.

Selon la Fig. 8, la pièce introduite Pb roule sur la seconde marche 54b et a un diamètre sensiblement supérieur à la distance entre les phototransistors 10b et 10h. Le mot détecté et délivré sur le bus 13 est a b c d e f g h i.According to FIG. 8, the insert P b rolls on the second step 54b and has a diameter substantially greater than the distance between the phototransistors 10b and 10h. The word detected and delivered on bus 13 is a bcdefgh i.

Selon la Fig. 9, la pièce R a les mêmes dimensions que celle montrée à la Fig. 8, mais a été percée centralement pour former une rondelle. Son trou central laisse passer la radiation de la source 11 qui excite le phototransistor 10e, .ce qui permet de distinguer le mot transmis sur le bus 13, tel que a b c d e f g h i. Ainsi, lorsque le circuit 2 reconnaît dans le signal logique -reçu au moins deux ensembles séparés de signaux au niveau bas, il en déduit que la pièce introduite est trouée et donc inacceptable et doit être refusée par escamotage de la trappe 62 commandée par l'électro-aimant d'éjection 60.According to FIG. 9, the part R has the same dimensions as that shown in FIG. 8, but was drilled centrally to form a washer. Its central hole lets pass the radiation of the source 11 which excites the phototransistor 10e,. Which makes it possible to distinguish the word transmitted on the bus 13, such as a bcd e fgh i. Thus, when the circuit 2 recognizes in the logic signal -received at least two separate sets of signals at the low level, it deduces therefrom that the inserted part is perforated and therefore unacceptable and must be refused by retraction of the hatch 62 controlled by the ejection solenoid 60.

En cas de coincement d'une pièce voilée, il peut être prévu une éjection de pièce dans le réceptacle de remboursement par des moyens commandés manuellement ou électromécaniquement pour écarter au moins la paroi d'appui 550 du couloir.In case of jamming of a veiled part, a part may be ejected into the reimbursement receptacle by means controlled manually or electromechanically to move at least the support wall 550 from the corridor.

Il apparaît que chaque pièce acceptable peut être caractérisée par un mot d'identification du diamètre et de l'épaisseur. Selon le mode de réalisation illustré à la Fig. 10, le circuit 2 comprend une mémoire morte (ROM) 20 qui contient à des adresses prédéterminées des mots à neuf bits identifiant respectivement les dimensions de tous les types de pièce qu'est susceptible d'accepter l'appareil distributeur. Cette mémoire est de préférence reprogrammable (REPROM) afin que l'entreprise de gestion de l'appareil puisse sélectionner les pièces acceptables en fonction du coût du service ou de l'objet à distribuer.It appears that each acceptable part can be characterized by a word identifying the diameter and the thickness. According to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10, the circuit 2 comprises a read-only memory (ROM) 20 which contains at predetermined addresses nine-bit words identifying respectively the dimensions of all the types of part which the dispensing device can accept. This memory is preferably reprogrammable (REPROM) so that the device management company can select the acceptable parts according to the cost of the service or the object to be distributed.

Le circuit 2 comprend également, selon l'exemple illustré, un registre tampon à décalage 21 à au moins neuf étages, une base de temps 22, un circuit d'adressage en lecture 23 pour la mémoire morte 20 et un circuit de comparaison logique 24 dont les bus d'entrée 240, 241 sont reliés aux sorties parallèles de la mémoire 20 et du registre 21. Le bus 13. transmet les bits parallèles des mots binaires d'identification à la base de temps 22.The circuit 2 also includes, according to the example illustrated, a shift buffer register 21 with at least nine stages, a time base 22, a read addressing circuit 23 for the read only memory 20 and a logic comparison circuit 24 whose input buses 240, 241 are connected to the parallel outputs of memory 20 and of register 21. Bus 13 . transmits the parallel bits of the binary identification words to the time base 22.

La base de temps 22 lit périodiquement les mots sur le bus 13 et comprend des moyens pour comparer deux à deux successivement ces mots afin de ne retenir que le mot ayant le plus grand nombre de bits au niveau logique bas entre deux instants prédéterminés correspondant sensiblement au passage d'une pièce entre la fente 12 et les phototransistors 10a à 10i. Le mot retenu correspond au passage de la section diamétrale de la pièce. La base de temps 22 ordonne alors le cycle suivant.The time base 22 periodically reads the words on the bus 13 and includes means for comparing two by two successively these words in order to retain only the word having the greatest number of bits at the low logic level between two predetermined times corresponding substantially to the passage of a part between the slot 12 and the phototransistors 10a to 10i. The selected word corresponds to the passage of the diametral section of the room. The time base 22 then orders the next cycle.

Le mot d'identification retenu est enregistré dans le registre tampon 21 via un bus 220. Puis, via un fil 221, la base de temps commande simultanément la lecture du registre 21 et la lecture d'un premier mot d'identification de pièce acceptable dans la mémoire 20 à travers le circuit d'adressage 23. Le circuit de comparaison 24 transmet le résultat de la comparaison via son fil de sortie 242 à la base de temps 22. Tant que le résultat de la comparaison est négatif, la base de temps commande la lecture des autres mots d'identification de pièce acceptable contenus dans la mémoire morte 20 pour les comparer au mot détecté et enregistré dans le registre 21.The retained identification word is recorded in the buffer register 21 via a bus 220. Then, via a wire 221, the time base simultaneously controls the reading of the register 21 and the reading of a first acceptable piece identification word in memory 20 through the addressing circuit 23. The comparison circuit 24 transmits the result of the comparison via its output wire 242 to the time base 22. As long as the result of the comparison is negative, the base of time commands the reading of the other acceptable part identification words contained in the read-only memory 20 in order to compare them with the word detected and recorded in the register 21.

Si aucune comparaison n'est positive, la base de temps 22 ordonne via le fil 61 le rejet de la pièce introduite par ouverture de la trappe 62. Si une comparaison est positive, le cycle de lecture de la mémoire 20 est arrêté, et une adresse est transmise via le bus 200 de la mémoire 20 vers une mémoire d'alliages 40 contenue dans le circuit 4. Chaque mot d'identification de pièce contenu dans la mémoire 20 est mémorisé avec un mot d'adresse de la mémoire 40 qui caractérise l'alliage de la pièce acceptable ayant les dimensions correspondant aux mots d'identification détecté et mémorisé dans le circuit 2.If no comparison is positive, the time base 22 orders via the wire 61 the rejection of the part introduced by opening the hatch 62. If a comparison is positive, the reading cycle of the memory 20 is stopped, and a address is transmitted via bus 200 from memory 20 to an alloy memory 40 contained in circuit 4. Each part identification word contained in memory 20 is memorized with an address word from memory 40 which characterizes the alloy of the acceptable part having the dimensions corresponding to the identification words detected and stored in circuit 2.

Pour le mode de réalisation selon lequel le sélecteur multipièce ne comprend pas de dispositif 3 et de circuit 4, les mots d'adresse de la mémoire 40 sont inutilisés.For the embodiment according to which the multi-room selector does not include a device 3 and a circuit 4, the address words of the memory 40 are unused.

Un autre mode de réalisation fait appel, en tant que moyen de réception photosensible inclus dans le dispositif de détection de dimensions 1, à une barrette CCD à circuits à couplage de charge déjà évoquée. Ce mode de réalisation est montré aux Figs. 4A et 4B. Les phototransistors 10a à 10i sont remplacés par les N cellules 141 à 14N de la barrette CCD qui sont reliées au bus 13. En pratique, le nombre N est plus grand que celui des phototransistors du fait de la structure très intégrée de la barrette. La définition verticale avec une barrette CCD peut attein- dre au moins un dizième de millimètres. La barrette est également disposée dans la paroi d'appui 550 à la verticale du fond 53 du couloir 5 et en face de la fente 12.Another embodiment uses, as a photosensitive reception means included in the detection device of dimensions 1, a CCD strip with charge coupling circuits already mentioned. This embodiment is shown in Figs. 4A and 4B. The phototransistors 10a to 10i are replaced by the N cells 14 1 to 14 N of the CCD strip which are connected to the bus 13. In practice, the number N is greater than that of the phototransistors due to the very integrated structure of the strip . The vertical definition with a CCD bar can reach at least a tenth of a millimeter. The bar is also placed in the support wall 550 vertically from the bottom 53 of the corridor 5 and opposite the slot 12.

Came on le voit sur les Figs. 4A et 4B, les marches d'escalier 54a à 54d sont remplacées par un plan incliné 58 qui fait un angle aigu préterminé α avec la paroi inférieure d' appui 550. Lorsqu'une pièce introduite P roule dans le couloir, l'une de ses faces est plaquée contre la paroi 550 et l'arête de sa face opposée roule sur le plan incliné 58 qui est entre le fond supérieur 53e et le fond inférieur 53a. Came précédemment, les cellules occultées telles qu'à partir de la cellule 143 pour une pièce mince Pf ayant une épaisseur Δef (Fig. 4A) ou à partir de la cellule 145 pour une pièce plus épaisse Pg ayant une épaisseur Δeg (Fig. 4B) déterminent le diamètre de la pièce. Les cellules inférieures excitées telles que 141 et 142 pour la pièce Pf ou 141 à 144 pour la pièce Pg déterminent directement l'épaisseur Δe de la pièce suivant la formule :

Figure imgb0001
où Δl est la distance entre le bas de la pièce et le sommet de l'angle a, c'est-à-dire la longueur le long de laquelle des cellules inférieures sont excitées. De préférence , a est choisi égal à π/4 afin de faciliter les calculs puisque dans ce cas :
Figure imgb0002
 Cam can be seen in Figs. 4A and 4B, the stair treads 54a to 54d are replaced by an inclined plane 58 which makes an acute angle pre-terminated α with the lower support wall 550. When a part introduced P rolls in the corridor, one of its faces is pressed against the wall 550 and the edge of its opposite face rolls on the inclined plane 58 which is between the upper bottom 53e and the lower bottom 53a. Previously, the concealed cells such as from cell 14 3 for a thin piece P f having a thickness Δe f (Fig. 4A) or from cell 14 5 for a thicker piece P g having a thickness Δe g (Fig. 4B) determine the diameter of the part. The excited lower cells such as 14 1 and 14 2 for the part P f or 141 to 14 4 for the part P g directly determine the thickness Δe of the part according to the formula:
Figure imgb0001
 where Δl is the distance between the bottom of the part and the top of the angle a, i.e. the length along which lower cells are excited. Preferably, a is chosen equal to π / 4 in order to facilitate the calculations since in this case:
Figure imgb0002

Le circuit de comparaison de dimensions selon ce mode de réalisation valide le diamètre de la pièce comme précédemment. En outre, il valide plus précisément directement l'épaisseur de la pièce selon la formule :

Figure imgb0003
par comparaison du mot formé par l'excitation des cellules CCD inférieures et de mots mémorisés identifiant les épaisseurs des pièces acceptables pour un diamètre prédéterminé.The dimension comparison circuit according to this embodiment validates the diameter of the part as before. In addition, it more precisely directly validates the thickness of the part according to the formula:
Figure imgb0003
 by comparison of the word formed by the excitation of the lower CCD cells and of stored words identifying the thicknesses of the acceptable parts for a predetermined diameter.

Ce mode de réalisation a l'avantage de conférer au sélecteur de pièce une adaptation à tous les types de pièces acceptables sans aucune modification mécanique - contrairement à la réalisation avec un couloir en escalier où à chaque marche correspond une épaisseur de pièce -. Cette adaptation est obtenue uniquement en programmant la table des épaisseurs et diamètres des pièces mémorisées dans la mémoire reprogrammable (REPROM) du circuit 2.This embodiment has the advantage of giving the room selector an adaptation to all types of acceptable rooms without any mechanical modification - unlike the realization with a staircase corridor where each step corresponds to a room thickness -. This adaptation is obtained only by programming the table of thicknesses and diameters of the parts stored in the reprogrammable memory (REPROM) of circuit 2.

Un autre avantage de la barrette CCD consiste en.ce que l'excitation des cellules est sensible au relief de la pièce ce qui permet.de "photographier" une tranche de la pièce et ainsi de détecter les fausses pièces ayant pourtant des dimensions acceptables.Another advantage of the CCD strip consists in that the excitation of the cells is sensitive to the relief of the part which makes it possible to "photograph" a slice of the part and thus to detect the false parts having however acceptable dimensions.

En se référant maintenant à la Fig. 11, on décrit les moyens de reconnaissance d'alliages 3-4.Referring now to FIG. 11, the means for recognizing alloys 3-4 are described.

Le dispositif de détection 3 comprend, comme il est connu, deux bobines face à face 30 et 31 qui sont respectivement insérées dans les parois longitudinales 550 et 551 du couloir de roulement 5 au dessus du plan inférieur 53a. Les bobines 30 et 31 sont couplées électromagnétiquement. Leur axe commun est perpendiculaire .aux parois 550 et 551 et est de préférence au niveau du centre moyen des pièces roulant sur le plan 53a, par exemple égal à celui du plan supérieure 53e..The detection device 3 comprises, as is known, two face-to-face coils 30 and 31 which are respectively inserted in the longitudinal walls 550 and 551 of the runway 5 above the lower plane 53a. The coils 30 and 31 are electromagnetically coupled. Their common axis is perpendicular to the walls 550 and 551 and is preferably at the level of the mean center of the parts rolling on the plane 53a, for example equal to that of the upper plane 53e.

Le circuit 4 comprend, outre la mémoire de mots d'identification d'alliages déjà citée 40, un pont de Wheatstone 41, un circuit d'amplification 42, un circuit intégrateur 43 et un circuit comparateur de seuil 44.The circuit 4 comprises, in addition to the memory for the identification words of alloys already cited 40, a Wheatstone bridge 41, an amplification circuit 42, an integrator circuit 43 and a threshold comparator circuit 44.

La borne commune 410 de deux branches contigües du pont d'impédance 41 est reliée à l'entrée directe 420+ d'un amplificateur 420 qui est contenu dans le circuit d'amplification 42, à travers une résistance d'entrée 421. Chacune de ces deux branches comprend en parallèle une pluralité de circuits parallèles 451 - 461 à 454 - 464 , 455 - 465 à 458 - 468, ici au nombre de quatre par exemple. Chacun de ces circuits comprend une impédance complexe 451 à 458 - qui peut être ajustable - et un commutateur analogique 461 à 468 dù genre contact commandé par un relais, ou du genre transistor, ou du genre "switch analogique" CD 4066 de RCA par exemple. La première des branches précédentes - en haut dans la Fig. 11 - comprend, en série avec les quatre circuits parallèles 451 - 461 à 454 - 464, les deux bobines 30 et 31 rèliées en série, ainsi qu'une impédance complexe 411 pouvant comprendre une ther-- mistance. La seconde branche précédente - en bas dans la Fig. 11 - comprend deux impédances 413 et 414 qui sont respectivement de préférence résistive et capacitive et qui sont en série avec les quatre autres circuits parallèles 455-465 à 458-468.The common terminal 410 of two contiguous branches of the impedance bridge 41 is connected to the direct input 420 + of an amplifier 420 which is contained in the amplification circuit 42, through an input resistance 421. Each of these two branches comprises in parallel a plurality of parallel circuits 451 - 461 to 454 - 464, 455 - 465 to 458 - 468, here four in number for example. Each of these circuits includes a complex impedance 451 to 458 - which can be adjustable - and an analog switch 461 to 468 of the contact type controlled by a relay, or of the transistor type, or of the "analog switch" CD 4066 type of RCA for example. The first of the previous branches - above in Fig. 11 - comprises, in series with the four parallel circuits 451 - 461 to 454 - 464, the two coils 30 and 31 connected in series, as well as a complex impedance 411 which may include a thermistor. The second previous branch - below in Fig. 11 - comprises two impedances 413 and 414 which are preferably resistive and capacitive respectively and which are in series with the other four parallel circuits 455-465 to 458-468.

Aux autres bornes 415 - 416 des deux branches précédentes du pont 41 est appliquée la tension d'un générateur 417 à fréquence prédéterminée, convenable pour la discrimination des alliages des pièces. Entre les bornes 415 et 416, les troisième et quatrième branches du pont de Wheatstone 41 comprennent respectivement des impédances 418 et 419 qui sont respectivement de préférence résistive et capacitive et qui sont relies à la masse.At the other terminals 415 - 416 of the two preceding branches of the bridge 41 is applied the voltage of a generator 417 at a predetermined frequency, suitable for the discrimination of the alloys of the parts. Between terminals 415 and 416, the third and fourth branches of the Wheatstone bridge 41 respectively include impedances 418 and 419 which are preferably resistive and capacitive respectively and which are connected to ground.

Dans le circuit d'amplification analogique 42, la borne inverse 420_ de l'amplificateur 420 est reliée à une résistance . 422 portée à la masse et à une résistance de contre-réaction 423 reliée à la sortie 424 de l'amplificateur 420.In the analog amplification circuit 42, the reverse terminal 420_ of the amplifier 420 is connected to a resistor. 422 brought to ground and to a feedback resistance 423 connected to the output 424 of the amplifier 420.

Le circuit intégrateur 43 comprend deux résistances 430 et 431 dont la borne commune est reliée à un condensateur 432 porté à la masse. L'autre borne de la résistance 430 est reliée à la sortie 424 de l'amplificateur 420. L'autre borne de la résistance 431 est reliée à l'une des entrées 440 du comparateur de tensions 411 que contient le circuit 44.The integrator circuit 43 includes two resistors 430 and 431, the common terminal of which is connected to a capacitor 432 brought to ground. The other terminal of the resistor 430 is connected to the output 424 of the amplifier 420. The other terminal of the resistor 431 is connected to one of the inputs 440 of the voltage comparator 411 contained in the circuit 44.

Le circuit comparateur de seuil 44 inclut également entre la borne d'alimentation positive et la masse une résistance 442 et un potentiomètre 443 dont la borne commune est reliée à une résistance 444. L'autre borne de la résistance 444 est reliée à un condensateur 445 porté à la masse et à l'autre entrée 446 du comparateur 441. La sortie du comparateur 441 est reliée au fil 61 de commande de l'électro-aimant 60 d'éjection des pièces refusées. Le potentiomètre 443 est réglé de sorte que la tension à la borne 446 du comparateur soit égale à la tension d'équilibre du pont 41 appliqué à l'autre borne 440 à travers les circuits 42 et 43 .The threshold comparator circuit 44 also includes between the positive supply terminal and the ground a resistor 442 and a potentiometer 443 whose common terminal is connected to a resistor 444. The other terminal of the resistor 444 is connected to a capacitor 445 brought to ground and to the other input 446 of comparator 441. The output of comparator 441 is connected to the wire 61 for controlling the electromagnet 60 for ejecting rejected parts. The potentiometer 443 is adjusted so that the voltage at terminal 446 of the comparator is equal to the equilibrium voltage of bridge 41 applied to the other terminal 440 through circuits 42 and 43.

Chaque groupe de commutateurs analogiques 461 à 464, 465 à 468 est commandé par un bus de sortie à quatre fils 401, 402 de la mémoire de mots d'identification d'alliage 40. Préalablement à toute utilisation, les impédances ajustables 451 à 458 sont réglées de sorte que, pour certaines combinaisons de fermetures et d'ouvertures des commutateurs 461 à 468, c'est-à-dire de combinaisons prédéterminées d'impédances 451 à 458, chacun des alliages ou matériaux caractérisant toutes les pièces acceptables, introduit entre les bobines 30 et 31 indique l'équilibre du pont, par exemple par un signal de sortie au niveau haut sur le fil 61. Ainsi à une combinaison de fermetures et d'ouvertures des commutateurs ou d'impédances correspond un alliage prédéterminé et un mot d'identification d'alliage dans la mémoire morte reprogrammable 40 (REPRCM).Each group of analog switches 461 to 464, 465 to 468 is controlled by a four-wire output bus 401, 402 from the alloy identification word memory 40. Before any use, the adjustable impedances 451 to 458 are regulated so that, for certain combinations of closings and openings of switches 461 to 468, that is to say predetermined combinations of impedances 451 to 458, each of the alloys or materials characterizing all the acceptable parts, introduced between the coils 30 and 31 indicate the balance of the bridge, for example by an output signal at the high level on the wire 61. Thus to a combination of closings and openings of the switches or impedances corresponds a predetermined alloy and a word alloy identification in reprogrammable read-only memory 40 (REPRCM).

Lorsque la base de temps 22 (Fig. 10) a validé les dimensions - diamètre et épaisseur - d'une pièce introduite en réponse à la reconnaissance d'un mot d'identification de dimensionnement transmis sur le bus 13 et contenu dans la mémoire 20, cette mémoire 20 délivre sur le bus 200, après un laps de temps correspondant sensiblement au temps de parcours de la pièce entre les dispositifs 1 et 3, l'adresse du mot d'identification d'aliage qui est contenue dans la mémoire 40 et qui correspond à l' alliage d'une pièce acceptable ayant les dimensions détectées. Puis les commutateurs 461 à 468 sont commandés via les bus 401 et 402/positionnés pour détecter l'alliage correspondant. Si la pièce introduite provoque l'équilibre du pont 41 lors de son passage entre les bobines 30 et 31, le comparateur 441 actionne l'électro-aimant d'éjection 60 (Fig.1) pour fermer la trappe 62 sur laquelle roule la pièce vers la sortie 51 et le réceptacle d'encaissement. Dans le cas contraire, bien que la pièce introduite ait des dimensions convenables, l'équilibre du pont 41 ne sera pas assuré car le matériau de la pièce ne correspond pas à l'alliage requis pour de telles dimensions; le signal au niveau bas sur le fil 61 maintient la trappe 62 escamotée afin que la pièce soit restituée à l'utilisateur.When the time base 22 (FIG. 10) has validated the dimensions - diameter and thickness - of a part introduced in response to the recognition of a dimensioning identification word transmitted on the bus 13 and contained in the memory 20 , this memory 20 delivers on the bus 200, after a period of time corresponding substantially to the travel time of the part between the devices 1 and 3, the address of the alloy identification word which is contained in the memory 40 and which corresponds to the alloy of an acceptable part having the dimensions detected. Then the switches 461 to 468 are controlled via the buses 401 and 402 / positioned to detect the corresponding alloy. If the inserted part causes the balance of the bridge 41 during its passage between the coils 30 and 31, the comparator 441 actuates the ejection electromagnet 60 (FIG. 1) to close the hatch 62 on which the part rolls towards exit 51 and the collection receptacle. Otherwise, although the part introduced has suitable dimensions, the balance of the bridge 41 will not be ensured because the material of the part does not correspond to the alloy required for such dimensions; the signal at low level on the wire 61 keeps the hatch 62 retracted so that the part is returned to the user.

Dans le mode de réalisation selon laquelle le sélecteur multipièce ne comprend que des moyens de reconnaissance d'alliage 3-4, le circuit 4 remplit les fonctions analogues au circuit 2. Dans ce cas, le circuit 4 comprend une base de temps telle que 22 qui adresse en lecture successivement les mots d'identification d'alliage dans la mémoire 40, jusqu'à ce que la base de temps détecte un signal au niveau bas en sortie du comparateur 441, ce qui valide la pièce introduite. Dans le cas contraire, pour toutes les combinaisons de fermetures et ouvertures des commutateurs analogiques 461 à 468 mémorisées dans la mémoire 40, aucun équilibre du pont 41 n'a été signalée et la base de temps ou le comparateur 441 maintient l'escamotage de la trappe 62 pour rejeter la pièce inacceptable. Selon un autre mode de réalisation, le dispositif de détection d'alliages 3 peut précéder le dispositif de détection de dimensions 1 le long du cheminement des pièces dans le couloir 5. Dans ce cas les fonctions relatives de commande des circuits 2 et 4 sont inversées. Le circuit 4 comprend une base de temps telle que 22 qui lit cycliquement la mémoire 40 jusqu'à ce qu'un équilibre du pont 41 soit réalisé. En réponse à cet équilibre, la mémoire 40 adresse la mémoire 20 afin qu'un comparateur tel que 24 compare le mot reçu sur le bus 13 avec celui adressé dans la mémoire 20. Comme précédemment, si le pont est équilibré et si, pour cet équilibre, le résultat de la comparaison dans le comparateur 24 est positif, la trappe 62 est actionnée pour fermer le fond du couloir.In the embodiment according to which the multi-room selector comprises only alloy recognition means 3-4, the circuit 4 fulfills the functions analogous to the circuit 2. In this case, the circuit 4 comprises a time base such as 22 which successively reads the alloy identification words in the memory 40, until the time base detects a low signal at the output of the compass rator 441, which validates the document introduced. Otherwise, for all the combinations of closings and openings of the analog switches 461 to 468 stored in the memory 40, no balance of the bridge 41 has been reported and the time base or the comparator 441 maintains the retraction of the hatch 62 to reject the unacceptable part. According to another embodiment, the alloy detection device 3 can precede the dimension detection device 1 along the path of the parts in the corridor 5. In this case the relative control functions of circuits 2 and 4 are reversed . The circuit 4 comprises a time base such as 22 which cyclically reads the memory 40 until a balance of the bridge 41 is achieved. In response to this balance, the memory 40 addresses the memory 20 so that a comparator such as 24 compares the word received on the bus 13 with that addressed in the memory 20. As before, if the bridge is balanced and if, for this balance, the result of the comparison in the comparator 24 is positive, the hatch 62 is actuated to close the end of the corridor.

Enfin selon un mode de réalisation plus intégré, le circuit 2 pour la reconnaissance des dimensions peut être organisé autour d'un microprocesseur 25, comme montré à la Fig. 12. Le microprocesseur comprend une mémoire à accès aléatoire RAM qui est utilisée pour les comparaisons deux à deux successives des mots détectés sur le bus 13 lors du passage de la pièce. Le circuit 2 comprend également une mémoire reprogrammable 26 et une interface d'entrée/sortie. Dans la mémoire 26 sont pré-enregistrés les mots d'identification des dimensions de pièces acceptables et les instructions correspondant au cycle des comparaisons, telles que décrites précédemment en référence à la Fig. 10. Les circuits 25, 26 et 27 sont classiquement reliés entre eux par un bus unidirectionnel 28 pour les adresses issues du microprocesseur 25 et par un bus bidirectionnel 29 pour les instructions et les données L'interface 27 est reliée au bus 13 connecté aux moyens photoréceptifs 10a à 10i (Fig. 5) ou 141 à 14N (Figs.4A et 4B), au bus 200 desservant la mémoire de mots d'identification d'alliage 40 (Fig. 11), au fil de commande 61 de l'électro-aimant 60 de la trappe escamotable 62 (Fig.1) et directement, dans ce cas, à la sortie du comparateur de tensions 44 (Fig.11). L'interface 27 peut-desservir par un bus 270 d'autres dispositifs, tels que des afficheurs par exemple. Selon cette réalisation à microprocesseur, la mémoire 40 (Fig.11) peut être également réalisée sous la forme d'un microprocesseur.Finally according to a more integrated embodiment, the circuit 2 for recognizing the dimensions can be organized around a microprocessor 25, as shown in FIG. 12. The microprocessor comprises a random access memory RAM which is used for successive two-by-two comparisons of the words detected on the bus 13 during the passage of the part. Circuit 2 also includes a reprogrammable memory 26 and an input / output interface. In the memory 26 are pre-recorded the words identifying the acceptable dimensions of the parts and the instructions corresponding to the cycle of comparisons, as described above with reference to FIG. 10. The circuits 25, 26 and 27 are conventionally linked together by a unidirectional bus 28 for the addresses originating from the microprocessor 25 and by a bidirectional bus 29 for the instructions and the data The interface 27 is connected to the bus 13 connected to the means photoreceptives 10a to 10i (Fig. 5) or 14 1 to 14 N (Figs.4A and 4B), to the bus 200 serving the alloy identification word memory 40 (Fig. 11), to the control wire 61 of the electromagnet 60 of the retractable flap 62 (Fig. 1) and directly, in this case, at the output of the voltage comparator 44 (Fig. 11). The interface 27 can serve by a bus 270 other devices, such as displays for example. According to this microprocessor embodiment, the memory 40 (FIG. 11) can also be produced in the form of a microprocessor.

Claims (19)

1 - Sélecteur.multipièce de monnaie comprenant un couloir (5) ayant un fond incliné (53) pour le roulement .des pièces (P) et une paroi inclinée (550) pour l'appui d'une face des pièces, des moyens comportant des moyens photoréceptifs (10) et des moyens photoémissifs (11) de part et d'autre du couloir pour reconnaître les dimensions des pièces, et des moyens (3-4) comportant deux bobines (30,31) de part et d'autre du couloir pour reconnaître les alliages des pièces, caractérisé en ce que le fond (53) du couloir (5) a devant les moyens de reconnaissance de dimensions (1-2) une section transversale en escalier (54e - 54a), dont la marche d'escalier inférieure (54a) est adjacente à la paroi inclinée (550) du couloir.1 - Selector.multipiece of coin comprising a passage (5) having an inclined bottom (53) for rolling the parts (P) and an inclined wall (550) for supporting one face of the parts, means comprising photoreceptive means (10) and photoemissive means (11) on either side of the corridor to recognize the dimensions of the rooms, and means (3-4) comprising two coils (30,31) on either side of the corridor for recognizing the alloys of the pieces, characterized in that the bottom (53) of the corridor (5) has in front of the dimension recognition means (1-2) a stepped cross section (54e - 54a), the step of which lower staircase (54a) is adjacent to the inclined wall (550) of the corridor. 2 - Sélecteur conforme à la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que les moyens phororéceptifs comprennent des récepteurs photosensibles (10a-10e) respectivement en face des contremarches de la section transversale en escalier (54e - 54a) et excitables par les moyens photoémissifs (11).2 - Selector according to claim 1, characterized in that the phororeceptive means comprise photosensitive receivers (10a-10e) respectively opposite the risers of the staircase cross section (54e - 54a) and excitable by the photoemissive means (11) . 3 - Sélecteur conforme à la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que les moyens photoréceptifs comprennent des récepteurs photosensibles (10e - 10i) au dessus de la section transversale en escalier (54e - 54a) et excitables par les moyens photoémissifs (11).3 - Selector according to claim 2, characterized in that the photoreceptive means comprise photosensitive receivers (10e - 10i) above the staircase cross section (54e - 54a) and excitable by the photoemissive means (11). 4 - Sélecteur conforme à l'une des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisé en ce que les extrémités des marches (54e - 54a) de la section transversale en escalier sont reliées les unes aux autres par des plans inclinés longitudinaux (56d - 56a, 57d - 57a) au couloir (5).4 - Selector according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the ends of the steps (54e - 54a) of the staircase cross section are connected to each other by longitudinal inclined planes (56d - 56a, 57d - 57a) in the corridor (5). 5 - Sélecteur conforme à l'une des revendications 2 à 4, caracté- risé en ce que les.récepteurs photosensibles sont des circuits à transfert de charge (CTD) (141 - 14N).5 - Selector according to one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the photosensitive receptors are charge transfer circuits (CTD) (14 1 - 14 N ). 6 - Sélecteur conforme à l'une des revendications 1 à 5, caractérisé en ce que la section transversale en escalier (54e - 54a) est remplacée par un plan incliné (58) faisant un angle aigu (α) avec la paroi - d'appui (550).6 - Selector according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the staircase cross section (54e - 54a) is replaced by an inclined plane (58) making an acute angle (α) with the wall - d ' support (550). 7 - Sélecteur conforme à la revendication 6, caractérisé en ce que l'angle aigu (a) est.égal à π/4.7 - Selector according to claim 6, characterized in that the acute angle (a) est.gal equal to π / 4. 8 - Sélecteur conforme à l'une des.revendications 1 à 7, caractérisé en ce qu'une fente (12) est pratiquée dans l'une (551) des parois du couloir et devant les moyens photoémissifs. (11) et en ce que les moyens photoréceptifs comprennent des récepteurs photosensibles (10a - 10i; 141 à 14N) alignés parallèlement à la fente (12) dans l'autre paroi (550) du couloir.8 - Selector according to one of the claims 1 to 7, characterized in that a slot (12) is made in one (551) of the walls of the corridor and in front of the photoemissive means. (11) and in that the means photoreceptives include photosensitive receptors (10a - 10i; 14 1 to 14 N ) aligned parallel to the slot (12) in the other wall (550) of the corridor. 9 - Sélecteur conforme à l'une des revendications 1 à 7, caractérisé en ce que des trous (12) sont alignés dans l'une (551) des parois du couloir et devant les moyens photoémissifs (11) et en ce que les moyens photoréceptifs comprennent des récepteurs photosensibles (10a - 10i ; 141 à 14N) alignés respectivement en face des trous dans l'autre paroi (550) du couloir.9 - Selector according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that holes (12) are aligned in one (551) of the walls of the corridor and in front of the photoemissive means (11) and in that the means photoreceptives include photosensitive receptors (10a - 10i; 14 1 to 14 N ) aligned respectively opposite the holes in the other wall (550) of the corridor. 10 - Sélecteur conforme à l'une des revendications 1 à 9, caractérisé en ce que les moyens photoémissifs (11) émettent dans l'infrarouge.10 - Selector according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the photoemissive means (11) emit in the infrared. 11 - Sélecteur conforme à l'une des revendications 1 à 10 , caractérisé en ce que les moyens de reconnaissance de dimensions (1-2) comprennent des moyens (22) reliés aux moyens photoémissifs (10a - 10i ; 141 à 14N) pour détecter un mot d'identification du diamètre et de l'épaisseur de chaque pièce introduite dans le couloir, une mémoire (20) de mots identifiant respectivement les dimensions de pièces acceptables et des moyens (24) pour comparer chaque mot détecté avec les mots mémorisés en vue d'accepter ou de refuser la pièce introduite.11 - Selector according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the size recognition means (1-2) comprise means (22) connected to the photoemissive means (10a - 10i; 141 to 14 N ) for detecting an identification word for the diameter and thickness of each piece introduced into the corridor, a word memory (20) identifying respectively the dimensions of acceptable pieces and means (24) for comparing each detected word with the stored words with a view to accepting or refusing the document introduced. 12 - Sélecteur conforme à l'une des revendications 1 à 11, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de reconnaissance d'alliages (3-4) comprennent un pont d'impédance (41) dont deux branches adjacentes comprennent chacune des impédances parallèles (451 - 454 ; 455 - 458) et dont l'une de ces deux branches inclut en série lesdites deux bobines (30, 31), des moyens (42, 43, 44) pour détecter l'équilibre du pont (41) en vue de l'acceptation ou du refus d'une pièce passant entre les deux bobines (30, 31), une mémoire (40) de mots identifiant respectivement les alliages de pièces acceptables et des moyens de commutation (461 - 464 ; 465 - 468) recevant les mots d'identification d'alliage pour sélectionner les combinaisons d'impédances (451 - 458) dans le pont (41) correspondant à son équilibre pour tous les types de pièces acceptables.12 - Selector according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the alloy recognition means (3-4) comprise an impedance bridge (41) of which two adjacent branches each include parallel impedances (451 - 454; 455 - 458) and one of these two branches of which includes said two coils (30, 31) in series, means (42, 43, 44) for detecting the balance of the bridge (41) in order to acceptance or rejection of a coin passing between the two coils (30, 31), a memory (40) of words identifying respectively the alloys of acceptable coins and switching means (461 - 464; 465 - 468) receiving the alloy identification words for selecting the combinations of impedances (451 - 458) in the bridge (41) corresponding to its equilibrium for all types of acceptable parts. 13 - Sélecteur multipièce conforme à la revendication 12, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de détection de l'équilibre du pont comprennent, en outre, un circuit intégrateur (43) et un circuit comparateur de seuil (44).13 - Multi-room selector according to claim 12, characterized in that the bridge balance detection means further comprises an integrator circuit (43) and a threshold comparator circuit (44). 14 - Sélecteur multipièce conforme à la revendication .12 ou '13, caractérisé en ce que la branche du pont comprenant les deux bobines (30, 31) comprend une thermistance (411).14 - Multi-room selector according to claim .12 or '13, characterized in that the branch of the bridge comprising the two coils (30, 31) comprises a thermistor (411). 15 - Sélecteur conforme à la revendication 11 et à l'une des revendications 12 à .14 dans lequel les moyens de reconnaissance de dimensions (1-2) précèdent les moyens de .reconnaissance d'alliages15 - Selector according to claim 11 and to one of claims 12 to .14 wherein the dimension recognition means (1-2) precede the alloy recognition means. (3-4) suivant la .traversée des pièces dans le couloir (5), caractérisé en ce que la mémoire (20) des moyens de reconnaissance de dimensions (1-2) contient des adresses des mots d'identification d'alliage dont l'un est fourni à la mémoire (40) des moyens de reconnaissance d'alliage (3-4) en réponse à la détection d'un mot d'identification du diamètre et de l'épaisseur de pièce acceptable en vue de sélectionner la combinaison des impédances (451 - 458) identifiant l'alliage de pièce ayant lesdits diamètre et épaisseur acceptables.(3-4) according to the crossing of the pieces in the corridor (5), characterized in that the memory (20) of the size recognition means (1-2) contains addresses of alloy identification words of which one is provided to the memory (40) of alloy recognition means (3-4) in response to the detection of an identification word of the acceptable diameter and thickness of the workpiece in order to select the combination of impedances (451 - 458) identifying the workpiece alloy having said acceptable diameter and thickness. 16 - Sélecteur conforme à la revendication 11 et à l'une des revendications 12 à 14, dans lequel les moyens de reconnaissance d'alliages (3-4) précèdent les moyens de reconnaissance de dimensions (1-2) suivant la traversée des pièces dans le couloir (4), caractérisé en ce que la mémoire (40) des moyens de reconnaissance d'alliages contient des adresses des mots d'identification de diamètre et d'épaisseur dont l'un est fourni à la mémoire (20) des moyens de reconnaissance de dimensions (1-2) en réponse à la détection de l'équilibre du pont d impédance (41) pour une combinaison d'impédances (451-458) identifiant un alliage de pièce acceptable en vue de comparer le mot mémorisé identifiant le diamètre et l'épaisseur de pièce ayant ledit alliage acceptable avec le mot détecté d'identification des dimensions de la pièce introduite.16 - Selector according to claim 11 and to one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the alloy recognition means (3-4) precede the dimension recognition means (1-2) following the crossing of the parts in the corridor (4), characterized in that the memory (40) of the alloy recognition means contains addresses of the identification words of diameter and thickness, one of which is provided to the memory (20) of the dimension recognition means (1-2) in response to the detection of the balance of the impedance bridge (41) for a combination of impedances (451-458) identifying an alloy of an acceptable part in order to compare the stored word identifying the diameter and the thickness of the part having said acceptable alloy with the detected word identifying the dimensions of the part introduced. 17 - Sélecteur multipièce de monnaie conforme à l'une des revendications 1 à 11, ne comprenant pas de moyens de reconnaissance d'alliages (3-4).17 - Multi-coin selector according to one of claims 1 to 11, not comprising alloy recognition means (3-4). 18. - Sélecteur multipièce de monnaie conforme à l'une des revendications 1 et 12 à 14 ne comprenant pas de moyens de reconnaissance de dimensions (1-2).18. - Multi-coin selector according to one of claims 1 and 12 to 14 not comprising means for recognizing dimensions (1-2).
EP82401954A 1981-10-27 1982-10-22 Testing arrangement for a multitude of different coins Expired EP0078214B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR8120170A FR2515395B1 (en) 1981-10-27 1981-10-27 MULTIPIECE CURRENCY SELECTOR
FR8120170 1981-10-27

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0078214A1 true EP0078214A1 (en) 1983-05-04
EP0078214B1 EP0078214B1 (en) 1984-08-08

Family

ID=9263440

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP82401954A Expired EP0078214B1 (en) 1981-10-27 1982-10-22 Testing arrangement for a multitude of different coins

Country Status (7)

Country Link
US (1) US4577744A (en)
EP (1) EP0078214B1 (en)
JP (1) JPS5882383A (en)
DE (1) DE3260545D1 (en)
DK (1) DK159691C (en)
FI (1) FI71847C (en)
FR (1) FR2515395B1 (en)

Cited By (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0119936A1 (en) * 1983-02-10 1984-09-26 MECELEC, Société Anonyme Optical method and apparatus to determine the dimensions of a relatively moving object, in particular a coin in a vending machine
WO1990007164A1 (en) * 1988-12-16 1990-06-28 Farmor Engineering Co., Ltd. Counter apparatus
WO1991016690A1 (en) * 1990-04-20 1991-10-31 Tetrel Limited Coin validators
WO1992009056A1 (en) * 1990-11-16 1992-05-29 Coin Controls Limited Coin discrimination apparatus with optical sensor
ES2043544A2 (en) * 1992-04-21 1993-12-16 Comercial Cocamatic S A Improvements to electronic coin-sorting/-testing devices (purses)
WO1995024024A1 (en) * 1994-03-04 1995-09-08 Austel Licensing Gmbh Coin recognition process and device
EP0716400A1 (en) 1994-12-10 1996-06-12 National Rejectors Inc. GmbH Device for detection of a threadlike foreign body in a coin slot
FR2734356A1 (en) * 1995-05-18 1996-11-22 Proditec Automatic thickness checking system for coinage blanks
DE19640067A1 (en) * 1996-09-28 1998-04-02 Nat Rejectors Gmbh Coin thickness measuring device for coin-operated device

Families Citing this family (35)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPS60218191A (en) * 1984-04-13 1985-10-31 株式会社田村電機製作所 Coin thickness discrimination system
US4696385A (en) * 1984-06-05 1987-09-29 Digital Products Corporation Electronic coin detection apparatus
JPS62151667U (en) * 1986-03-15 1987-09-25
JPS62151668U (en) * 1986-03-15 1987-09-25
US6494776B1 (en) * 1992-09-04 2002-12-17 Coinstar, Inc. Coin counter/sorter and coupon/voucher dispensing machine and method
US6736251B2 (en) 1992-09-04 2004-05-18 Coinstar, Inc. Coin counter and voucher dispensing machine and method
US7028827B1 (en) 1992-09-04 2006-04-18 Coinstar, Inc. Coin counter/sorter and coupon/voucher dispensing machine and method
JP3525360B2 (en) * 1994-05-19 2004-05-10 ローレルバンクマシン株式会社 Coin discriminator
US6863168B1 (en) * 1996-03-07 2005-03-08 Coinstar, Inc. Method and apparatus for conditioning coins prior to discrimination
ES2114831B1 (en) * 1996-11-05 1999-04-16 Inversiones Taconera S L COIN DISCRIMINATOR SYSTEM.
GB2341709A (en) * 1998-09-18 2000-03-22 Mars Inc Coin sensing device
DE19909851C2 (en) * 1999-03-08 2003-09-04 Zimmermann Gmbh & Co Kg F Device for distinguishing false coins from real coins
ES2160066B2 (en) 1999-08-18 2002-07-16 Jofemar Sa IMPROVED COIN SELECTOR.
US6640956B1 (en) 2000-09-05 2003-11-04 De La Rue Cash Systems, Inc. Method of coin detection and bag stopping for a coin sorter
JP4933703B2 (en) * 2001-05-22 2012-05-16 高砂電器産業株式会社 Medal passage detection device and slot machine using the device
US8033375B2 (en) * 2002-02-15 2011-10-11 Coinstar, Inc. Methods and systems for exchanging and/or transferring various forms of value
US20060207856A1 (en) * 2002-02-15 2006-09-21 Dean Scott A Methods and systems for exchanging and/or transferring various forms of value
US7865432B2 (en) * 2002-02-15 2011-01-04 Coinstar, Inc. Methods and systems for exchanging and/or transferring various forms of value
EP2515281A1 (en) 2002-02-15 2012-10-24 Coinstar, Inc. Methods and systems for exchanging and/or transferring various forms of value
JP5109072B2 (en) * 2007-09-12 2012-12-26 旭精工株式会社 Value medium processing device
WO2010040037A1 (en) * 2008-10-03 2010-04-08 Mei, Inc. Currency discrimination and evaluation
EP2636015A4 (en) 2010-11-01 2016-05-11 Outerwall Inc Gift card exchange kiosks and associated methods of use
US8874467B2 (en) 2011-11-23 2014-10-28 Outerwall Inc Mobile commerce platforms and associated systems and methods for converting consumer coins, cash, and/or other forms of value for use with same
US9129294B2 (en) 2012-02-06 2015-09-08 Outerwall Inc. Coin counting machines having coupon capabilities, loyalty program capabilities, advertising capabilities, and the like
US9036890B2 (en) 2012-06-05 2015-05-19 Outerwall Inc. Optical coin discrimination systems and methods for use with consumer-operated kiosks and the like
US8967361B2 (en) 2013-02-27 2015-03-03 Outerwall Inc. Coin counting and sorting machines
US9022841B2 (en) 2013-05-08 2015-05-05 Outerwall Inc. Coin counting and/or sorting machines and associated systems and methods
US9443367B2 (en) 2014-01-17 2016-09-13 Outerwall Inc. Digital image coin discrimination for use with consumer-operated kiosks and the like
US9235945B2 (en) 2014-02-10 2016-01-12 Outerwall Inc. Coin input apparatuses and associated methods and systems
US9293341B2 (en) 2014-03-13 2016-03-22 Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Ltd. Mechanisms for forming patterns using multiple lithography processes
US9245763B2 (en) 2014-03-13 2016-01-26 Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Ltd. Mechanisms for forming patterns using multiple lithography processes
US9761436B2 (en) 2014-06-30 2017-09-12 Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Ltd. Mechanisms for forming patterns using multiple lithography processes
US10163652B2 (en) 2014-03-13 2018-12-25 Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Ltd. Mechanisms for forming patterns using multiple lithography processes
US9711369B2 (en) 2015-03-16 2017-07-18 Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Ltd. Method for forming patterns with sharp jogs
US10346819B2 (en) 2015-11-19 2019-07-09 Coinstar Asset Holdings, Llc Mobile device applications, other applications and associated kiosk-based systems and methods for facilitating coin saving

Citations (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE2055134A1 (en) * 1970-11-10 1972-05-18 Pruemm G Electronic coin validator
GB1288674A (en) * 1970-04-04 1972-09-13
FR2215661A1 (en) * 1973-01-29 1974-08-23 Tel Sa
DE2514230A1 (en) * 1974-04-01 1975-10-09 Canon Kk SYSTEM FOR EXPOSURE MEASUREMENT AND / OR FOR FOCUS DETERMINATION WITH THE HELP OF AN IMAGE SENSOR
FR2265139A1 (en) * 1974-03-18 1975-10-17 Qonaar Corp
US3978962A (en) * 1975-04-21 1976-09-07 International Acceptor Corporation Of Florida Solid state, coin activated mechanism
DE2716740A1 (en) * 1977-04-14 1978-10-26 Walter Hanke Mechanische Werks Automatic coin checking system - uses capacitive and/or inductive sensors generating signals compared with reference values relating to size, denomination and material
US4206775A (en) * 1977-06-21 1980-06-10 Fuji Electric Co., Ltd. Coin sorting machine
GB2062327A (en) * 1979-10-18 1981-05-20 Gnt Automatic As A Capacitive Coin Detector
EP0061302A2 (en) * 1981-03-21 1982-09-29 Icc Machines Limited Coin discrimination

Family Cites Families (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE1574225B1 (en) * 1967-07-20 1972-01-13 Kinzle App Gmbh PARKING METER
GB1381278A (en) * 1971-11-10 1975-01-22 Eastmead Eng Co Ltd Apparatus for monitoring coins
JPS4928476A (en) * 1972-07-14 1974-03-13
JPS4929478A (en) * 1972-07-20 1974-03-15
US4089400A (en) * 1976-01-23 1978-05-16 Gregory Jr Lester Coin testing device
JPS54150198A (en) * 1978-05-15 1979-11-26 Intaanashiyonaru Akuseputaa Co Coin discriminator
JPS5580193A (en) * 1978-12-11 1980-06-17 Buijiieru Ind Ltd Monetary unit examine device in coin release mechanism
US4257512A (en) * 1979-02-12 1981-03-24 Bally Manufacturing Corporation Coin acceptor apparatus
JPS5616276U (en) * 1979-07-17 1981-02-12
US4385684A (en) * 1979-07-17 1983-05-31 Kabushiki Kaisha Nippon Coinco Coin selection device
US4333557A (en) * 1980-02-21 1982-06-08 Kozak George M Solid state slug rejector

Patent Citations (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB1288674A (en) * 1970-04-04 1972-09-13
DE2055134A1 (en) * 1970-11-10 1972-05-18 Pruemm G Electronic coin validator
FR2215661A1 (en) * 1973-01-29 1974-08-23 Tel Sa
FR2265139A1 (en) * 1974-03-18 1975-10-17 Qonaar Corp
DE2514230A1 (en) * 1974-04-01 1975-10-09 Canon Kk SYSTEM FOR EXPOSURE MEASUREMENT AND / OR FOR FOCUS DETERMINATION WITH THE HELP OF AN IMAGE SENSOR
US3978962A (en) * 1975-04-21 1976-09-07 International Acceptor Corporation Of Florida Solid state, coin activated mechanism
DE2716740A1 (en) * 1977-04-14 1978-10-26 Walter Hanke Mechanische Werks Automatic coin checking system - uses capacitive and/or inductive sensors generating signals compared with reference values relating to size, denomination and material
US4206775A (en) * 1977-06-21 1980-06-10 Fuji Electric Co., Ltd. Coin sorting machine
GB2062327A (en) * 1979-10-18 1981-05-20 Gnt Automatic As A Capacitive Coin Detector
EP0061302A2 (en) * 1981-03-21 1982-09-29 Icc Machines Limited Coin discrimination

Cited By (14)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0119936A1 (en) * 1983-02-10 1984-09-26 MECELEC, Société Anonyme Optical method and apparatus to determine the dimensions of a relatively moving object, in particular a coin in a vending machine
WO1990007164A1 (en) * 1988-12-16 1990-06-28 Farmor Engineering Co., Ltd. Counter apparatus
WO1991016690A1 (en) * 1990-04-20 1991-10-31 Tetrel Limited Coin validators
GB2243238B (en) * 1990-04-20 1994-06-01 Tetrel Ltd Coin validators
WO1992009056A1 (en) * 1990-11-16 1992-05-29 Coin Controls Limited Coin discrimination apparatus with optical sensor
ES2043544A2 (en) * 1992-04-21 1993-12-16 Comercial Cocamatic S A Improvements to electronic coin-sorting/-testing devices (purses)
WO1995024024A1 (en) * 1994-03-04 1995-09-08 Austel Licensing Gmbh Coin recognition process and device
US5788046A (en) * 1994-03-04 1998-08-04 Austel Licensing Gmbh Method for recognizing coins and apparatus therefor
EP0716400A1 (en) 1994-12-10 1996-06-12 National Rejectors Inc. GmbH Device for detection of a threadlike foreign body in a coin slot
DE4444105A1 (en) * 1994-12-10 1996-06-13 Nat Rejectors Gmbh Device for detecting a thread-like foreign body in a coin device
DE4444105C2 (en) * 1994-12-10 1998-07-02 Nat Rejectors Gmbh Device for detecting a thread-like foreign body in a coin device
FR2734356A1 (en) * 1995-05-18 1996-11-22 Proditec Automatic thickness checking system for coinage blanks
DE19640067A1 (en) * 1996-09-28 1998-04-02 Nat Rejectors Gmbh Coin thickness measuring device for coin-operated device
DE19640067C2 (en) * 1996-09-28 1998-09-10 Nat Rejectors Gmbh Device for measuring the thickness of coins in a coin device

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DK159691B (en) 1990-11-19
FI71847B (en) 1986-10-31
US4577744A (en) 1986-03-25
FI71847C (en) 1987-02-09
FI823547A0 (en) 1982-10-18
FI823547L (en) 1983-04-28
FR2515395B1 (en) 1985-05-31
FR2515395A1 (en) 1983-04-29
DK159691C (en) 1991-04-15
DK472382A (en) 1983-04-28
DE3260545D1 (en) 1984-09-13
EP0078214B1 (en) 1984-08-08
JPS5882383A (en) 1983-05-17

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP0078214B1 (en) Testing arrangement for a multitude of different coins
EP0609923B1 (en) Device for testing the conformity of and for transfering the objects, introduced into a dispenser
FR2551572A1 (en) AUTOMATIC SILVER HANDLING APPARATUS AND APPARATUS FOR RECEIVING, IDENTIFYING, SORTING, STORING, DISTRIBUTING AND DELIVERING PARTS
FR2537553A1 (en) DEVICE FOR SORTING AND TRANSPORTING OBJECTS
FR2629585A1 (en) METHOD AND DEVICE FOR OPTICALLY CHECKING THE ASPECT OF CHIP-LIKE COMPONENTS AND PROCESSING THEIR SORTING
FR2602076A1 (en) DEVICE WITH OPTICAL IDENTIFICATION CARDS.
WO2021037417A1 (en) Sorting device for agricultural products and corresponding method
FR2485232A2 (en) INSTALLATION TO ENCOURAGE THE RETURN OF TROLLEYS IN A SUPERMARKET
CN107492184A (en) Coin identifying apparatus
FR2893518A1 (en) Fruit sorting device for use in e.g. fruit treating field, has conveying unit provided to transport fruits and forming buckle that is contained in horizontal plane, where conveying unit is oval in shape
FR2711121A1 (en) Baggage storage system waiting to board.
FR2563340A1 (en) APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MONITORING AND SORTING GLASS CONTAINERS
FR3048687B1 (en) PASSENGER SAFETY CONTROL INSTALLATION
FR2650417A1 (en) Sorter for bulk coins
EP0092733A1 (en) Coin magazine for a paying system with collecting and dispensing of money
FR3106767A1 (en) Device for detecting and / or inspecting objects and collecting and / or deconsigning machine including it
JP3390242B2 (en) Circulating coin processor
EP0895202A1 (en) Improvements by redundancy to optical recognition systems in reverse vending machines
EP1903516B1 (en) Sequestration device
FR2670404A1 (en) Device and method for automatic classification of independent vehicles on the move
EP2315166B1 (en) Checkout till, checkout area and checkout method
FR2739710A1 (en) Automated storage and delivery system for shopping or baggage trolleys
EP1252845A1 (en) Module for contactless collection of items carrying chip stored data
CH503337A (en) Coin identification device
WO2022058596A2 (en) System for delivering an order at a collection point

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Designated state(s): CH DE FR GB LI NL

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 19830420

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Designated state(s): CH DE FR GB LI NL

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 3260545

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 19840913

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed
PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 19980916

Year of fee payment: 17

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Payment date: 19980918

Year of fee payment: 17

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 19980918

Year of fee payment: 17

Ref country code: CH

Payment date: 19980918

Year of fee payment: 17

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 19981016

Year of fee payment: 17

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19991022

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19991031

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19991031

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20000501

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 19991022

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20000630

NLV4 Nl: lapsed or anulled due to non-payment of the annual fee

Effective date: 20000501

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20000801

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST