Card reader

Abstract

This invention provides a card reader with improved durability. The card reader includes a card locking mechanism that prevents the card from being pulled out of the card insertion slot and a knob for manually releasing the card locking mechanism. The card locking mechanism has a motor and a locking member having a blocking claw that moves between a contact position where the blocking claw contacts the card and a retracted position where the blocking claw retracts from the card transport path by a power transmitted from the motor. The knob has: a cylindrical rotating member having an inner peripheral wall surrounding the output shaft of the motor; and an engaging member disposed on the inner peripheral wall, extending circumferentially along the output shaft and capable of engaging with the outer peripheral surface of the output shaft, the engaging member being configured to elastically deform in a direction perpendicular to the output shaft.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a card reader for reading or recording information from a card containing information. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a card reader comprising a card insertion port for inserting and ejecting cards, a card transport path for transporting cards inserted from the card insertion port, and a card locking mechanism that prevents the card from being pulled out of the card insertion port when the card stops abnormally in the card transport path and becomes stuck there. The card locking mechanism includes an electric motor that transmits power to a blocking claw that contacts the card and prevents it from being pulled out, and a knob for manually rotating the output shaft of the electric motor. By rotating the knob, the blocking claw disengages from the card, allowing the card to be manually released from its lock.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-224830 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] If the knob is rotated further in the unlocking direction after the blocking pawl has reached the side opposite to the locking side of the movable range by rotating the knob in the unlocking direction, it is possible to apply excessive force to the inside of the motor.

[0008] The purpose of this invention is to provide a card reader with improved durability.

[0009] Technical solutions adopted to solve technical problems

[0010] One aspect of the present invention provides a card reader comprising: a card locking mechanism that prevents a card in the card transport path from being pulled out of a card insertion slot; and an operating unit for manually releasing the card from the card locking mechanism, the card locking mechanism having a motor and a locking member, the locking member having a blocking claw that contacts the card to prevent the card from being pulled out, and being movable between a contact position where the blocking claw contacts the card and a retraction position where the blocking claw retracts from the card transport path by a power transmitted from the motor, the operating unit having: a cylindrical rotating member having an inner peripheral wall surrounding an output shaft of the motor; and an engaging member disposed on the inner peripheral wall, extending circumferentially along the output shaft and capable of engaging with an outer peripheral surface of the output shaft, the engaging member being configured to elastically deform in a direction perpendicular to the output shaft.

[0011] Invention Effects

[0012] According to the present invention, a card reader with improved durability can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a schematic top view of a card reader 51 as one embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Side view of the card locking mechanism 57 shown.

[0015] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of the card locking mechanism 57 shown.

[0016] Figure 4 Shown from another direction Figure 3 A perspective view of the card locking mechanism 57 shown.

[0017] Figure 5 From Figure 2 The top view of the card locking mechanism 3 with the button 71 removed.

[0018] Figure 6 It is shown from another direction. Figure 3 The diagram shows the state in which the locking mechanism 57 is removed from the support frame 67 and the knob 71, etc.

[0019] Figure 7 It is used to explain the configuration in Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of the pin clutch 31 between the spur gear 23 and the rotating shaft 24.

[0020] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 An enlarged top view of the area near the knob 71 of the card locking mechanism 57 shown.

[0021] Figure 9 Showing only from the top Figure 8 A perspective view of the knob 71 shown.

[0022] Figure 10 Shown from the bottom Figure 9 A perspective view of the knob 71 shown.

[0023] Figure 11 Shown from the bottom Figure 9 Top view of the knob 71 shown.

[0024] Figure 12 This shows the situation where the locking component 15 is assumed to be in the retracted position. Figure 8 The diagram shows the state in which knob 71 is rotated clockwise.

[0025] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0026] 2…card; 3…card insertion port; 14a…output shaft; 14…motor; 15…locking component; 16…power transmission mechanism; 51…card reader; 57…card locking mechanism; 71A, 71B…engaging component; 71Aa, 71Ba…arm; 71Ab, 71Bb…root; 71Ac, 71Bc…standing part; 71a…inner peripheral wall; 71Ae, 71Be…front end; 71…knob; 85a, 85b…stopping claw; 85…locking plate. Detailed Implementation

[0027] (Simplified structure of a card reader)

[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic top view of a card reader 51 as one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Side view of the card locking mechanism 57 shown.

[0029] The card reader 51 of this type is a device for reading information such as magnetic data recorded on the card 2 and recording at least one of the magnetic data or other information on the card 2, and is used on a specified host device such as an ATM (Automated Teller Machine). The card reader 51 includes: a card insertion section having a card insertion slot 3 for inserting and removing the card 2; and a main body 5 for housing the card insertion section. A card transport path (not shown) is formed inside the card reader 51 for transporting the card 2 inserted from the card insertion slot 3. Furthermore, the card reader 51 has a card locking mechanism 57, which prevents the card 2 from being removed from the card insertion slot 3 when the card 2 stops abnormally on the card transport path due to improper behavior by a criminal or other reasons, thus becoming stuck on the card transport path. In other words, the card locking mechanism 57 is mounted on the card reader 51.

[0030] Card 2 is a card made of vinyl chloride with a thickness of approximately 0.7 to 0.8 mm. Card 2 in this type is a magnetic stripe card conforming to international standards (e.g., ISO / IEC 7811) or JIS standards (e.g., JIS X 6302), and is roughly rectangular in shape with rounded corners. A magnetic stripe for recording magnetic data is formed on Card 2. Additionally, an IC chip is embedded in Card 2. Furthermore, Card 2 can be a PET (polyethylene terephthalate) card with a thickness of approximately 0.18 to 0.36 mm, or a paper card of a specified thickness, etc.

[0031] In this method, Figure 1Card 2 is conveyed in the X direction as shown. Specifically, card 2 is drawn in in the X1 direction and discharged in the X2 direction. That is, the X direction is the conveying direction of card 2 on the card conveying path, the X1 direction is the drawing direction of card 2, and the X2 direction is the discharge direction of card 2. In this method, card 2 is drawn into card reader 51 in such a way that the long side direction of card 2 is aligned with the X direction. Furthermore, card 2 is conveyed in card reader 51 in such a way that the long side direction of card 2 is aligned with the X direction. That is, card reader 51 is configured to convey card 2 in the long side direction of card 2 and perform the prescribed processing.

[0032] Furthermore, the Z direction, orthogonal to the X direction, is the height direction of the card transport path and the thickness direction of the card 2 transported on the card transport path. Additionally, the Y direction, orthogonal to both the X and Z directions, is the width direction of the card transport path and the width direction of the card 2 transported on the card transport path. In this configuration, the card reader 51 is arranged so that the Z direction aligns with the vertical direction. In the following description, the X direction will be referred to as "front-back direction," the Y direction as "left-right direction," and the Z direction as "up-down direction." Furthermore, the X1 direction side will be referred to as "backward (inner) side," the X2 direction side as "front" side, the Y1 direction side as "right" side, the Y2 direction side as "left" side, the Z1 direction side as "up" side, and the Z2 direction side as "down".

[0033] Card insertion slot 3 is mounted on the front end face of main body 5. Main body 5 includes a magnetic head (not shown) and IC contacts (not shown). The magnetic head reads magnetic data recorded on card 2 and records at least one of the magnetic data to card 2. The IC contacts are used for data communication with an IC chip built into card 2.

[0034] The magnetic head is configured to move from the lower side of the card transport path into the card transport path. Furthermore, the magnetic head moves vertically between a position where it can contact card 2 and a position where it retracts from the card transport path. The IC contacts are configured to move from the upper side of the card transport path into the card transport path. Furthermore, the IC contacts are fixed to an IC contact block. The IC contact block is connected to an IC contact block drive mechanism, and the IC contacts move vertically between a position where they can contact card 2 and a position where they retract from the card transport path.

[0035] The main body 5 includes a conveyor roller (not shown) that abuts against the card 2 and conveys the card 2, and a pad roller (not shown) disposed opposite to the conveyor roller. The conveyor roller is arranged to convey the card from the upper side into the card conveying path. The pad roller is arranged to convey the card from the lower side into the card conveying path.

[0036] A locking wall portion 56a is formed on the main frame 56 of the card reader 51, which engages with the locking groove 69d (described later) formed on the card locking mechanism 57. The locking wall portion 56a is formed to stand upright from the upper surface portion constituting the upper surface portion of the card transport path. Furthermore, the locking wall portion 56a is formed in a flat plate shape, with its thickness direction aligned with the front-rear direction. The left end of the locking wall portion 56a is connected to the side wall portion 56b constituting the left side of the main frame 56. Additionally, the right end of the locking wall portion 56a is connected to a flat wall portion 56c. The wall portion 56c is formed to stand upright from the upper surface portion constituting the upper surface portion of the card transport path, with its thickness direction aligned with the left-right direction.

[0037] (Structure of the card locking mechanism)

[0038] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of the card locking mechanism 57 shown. Figure 4 Shown from another direction Figure 3 A perspective view of the card locking mechanism 57 shown. Figure 5 From Figure 2 The top view of the card locking mechanism 57 with the knob 71 removed. Figure 6 It is shown from another direction. Figure 3 The diagram shows the state in which the locking mechanism 57 is removed from the support frame 67 and the knob 71, etc. Figure 7 It is used to explain the configuration in Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of the pin clutch 31 between the spur gear 23 and the rotating shaft 24. Figure 8 yes Figure 1 An enlarged top view of the area near the knob 71 of the card locking mechanism 57 shown. Figure 9 Showing only from the top Figure 8 A perspective view of the knob 71 shown. Figure 10 Shown from the bottom Figure 9 A perspective view of the knob 71 shown. Figure 11 Shown from the bottom Figure 9 Top view of the knob 71 shown.

[0039] A card locking mechanism 57 is positioned above the card transport path. This card locking mechanism 57 includes a detection mechanism 12, a motor 14, a locking component 15, and a power transmission mechanism 16. Furthermore, the card locking mechanism 57 includes a support frame 67 for mounting the detection mechanism 12, the motor 14, the locking component 15, and the power transmission mechanism 16. The support frame 67 consists of two frames, a first frame 68 and a second frame 69, and a connecting shaft 70 for connecting the first frame 68 and the second frame 69. The first frame 68 and the second frame 69 are formed by bending a metal plate, such as a steel plate, into a predetermined shape.

[0040] The first frame 68 comprises a flat side panel 68a constituting the right side of the support frame 67, a flat motor mounting portion 68b for fixing the motor 14, and a flat substrate mounting portion 68c for fixing the sensor substrate 73 (described later). The side panel 68a is configured such that its thickness direction aligns with the left-right direction. The motor mounting portion 68b is configured such that its thickness direction aligns with the up-down direction. Furthermore, the motor mounting portion 68b is connected to the inner end of the lower end of the side panel 68a and extends to the left from the inner end of the side panel 68a. The substrate mounting portion 68c is configured such that its thickness direction aligns with the front-back direction. Furthermore, the substrate mounting portion 68c is connected to the front end of the side panel 68a and extends to the left from the front end of the side panel 68a.

[0041] The second frame 69 comprises a flat side portion 69a constituting the left side of the support frame 67, a flat upper portion 69b connected to the upper end surface of the side portion 69a, and a flat inner side portion 69c arranged parallel to the side portion 69a. The side portion 69a is arranged such that its thickness direction aligns with the left-right direction. The upper portion 69b is arranged such that its thickness direction aligns with the up-down direction. Furthermore, the upper portion 69b is connected to the front end of the upper end of the side portion 69a and extends to the right from the front end of the side portion 69a. The inner side portion 69c is arranged such that its thickness direction aligns with the left-right direction. Furthermore, the inner side portion 69c is connected to the right end of the upper portion 69b and extends downward from the right end of the upper portion 69b. The connecting shaft 70 is arranged such that its axial direction aligns with the left-right direction. Furthermore, the connecting shaft 70 is disposed between the side portion 69a and the inner side portion 69c.

[0042] A slit-shaped engaging groove 69d, with its long side facing vertically, is formed on the side portion 69a (i.e., the left side of the support frame 67). The engaging groove 69d extends from the lower end face of the side portion 69a upwards. Furthermore, the engaging groove 69d is formed at the front end of the side portion 69a, penetrating it in the left-right direction. The width of the engaging groove 69d in the front-rear direction is approximately equal to the thickness (front-rear thickness) of the engaging wall portion 56a of the main frame 56. Figure 2 As shown, the engaging groove 69d engages with the engaging wall portion 56a. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the side portion 69a is fixed to the side wall portion 56b of the main frame 56 by screws (omitted in the illustration), thereby fixing the locking mechanism 57 to the main frame 56.

[0043] The motor 14 is configured such that the axial direction and vertical direction of the output shaft 14a are parallel, and the output shaft 14a is fixed to the motor mounting portion 68b of the support frame 67 in a manner that protrudes upward. Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the power transmission mechanism 16 includes a worm gear 20 composed of a helical gear 18 and a bevel gear 19. Additionally, the power transmission mechanism 16 includes a rotating shaft 21, a spur gear 22, a spur gear 23, a rotating shaft 24, and a spur gear 25. The spur gear 25 meshes with a sector gear 85c, which is formed on a locking plate 85 (described later) constituting the locking member 15. Figure 5 As shown, the power transmission mechanism 16 is arranged in the left-right direction between the side portion 68a and the side portion 69a.

[0044] The rotating shaft 21 is formed into a slender cylindrical shape, and its axial direction is aligned with the left-right direction. A fixed shaft 28 is inserted through the inner circumference of the rotating shaft 21, and the fixed shaft 28 is fixed to the support frame 67 in such a way that its axial direction is aligned with the left-right direction. The helical gear 19 is fixed at approximately the center position of the rotating shaft 21, and the spur gear 22 is fixed at the left end of the rotating shaft 21. That is, the spur gear 22 is positioned to the left of the helical gear 19. In addition, the helical gear 19 is positioned in front of the helical gear 18, and the rotating shaft 21 is positioned in front of the helical gear 18. That is, the rotating shaft 21 is positioned in front of the output shaft 14a.

[0045] The rotating shaft 24 is configured such that its axial direction aligns with the left-right direction and is rotatably held on the support frame 67. This rotating shaft 24 is positioned vertically between the upper and lower ends of the motor 14. Furthermore, the rotating shaft 24 is positioned forward of the rotating shaft 21. The spur gear 23 is held on the rotating shaft 24 at its left end in a rotatable manner and is positioned to the left of the helical gear 19. The spur gear 25 is fixed to the right end of the rotating shaft 24. This spur gear 25 is positioned horizontally between the side surface 68a and the inner side surface 69c. Furthermore, the spur gear 25 is positioned to the right of the helical gear 19.

[0046] like Figure 7 As shown, two cylindrical gear side pins 29 are fixed to the right side of the spur gear 23, protruding to the right. The two gear side pins 29 are fixed to the spur gear 23 at a 180° interval centered on the rotation shaft 24. Shaft side pins 30 are fixed to the rotation shaft 24, protruding radially to both sides. The shaft side pins 30 are positioned to the right of the spur gear 23 so as to contact the two gear side pins 29. The two gear side pins 29 and the shaft side pins 30 constitute a pin clutch 31, which interrupts the power transmission between the spur gear 23 and the rotation shaft 24 in the power transmission path between the motor 14 and the locking member 15.

[0047] like Figure 5As shown, the locking member 15 is disposed between side portion 68a and side portion 69a in the left-right direction. Specifically, the locking member 15 is disposed between side portion 68a and inner side portion 69c in the left-right direction. Furthermore, the locking member 15 is disposed to the right of the helical gear 19. Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, the locking member 15 includes two locking plates 85, each having two blocking claws 85a and 85b that contact the card 2 to prevent its removal. In addition to the blocking claws 85a and 85b, a sector gear 85c that meshes with the spur gear 25 is also formed on the locking plate 85. The locking plate 85 is flat and is arranged such that its thickness direction aligns with its left-right direction.

[0048] The front end portion of the locking plate 85 is rotatably held on the fixed shaft 36, which is fixed to the support frame 67. The fixed shaft 36 is configured such that its axial direction is aligned with the left-right direction. Furthermore, the fixed shaft 36 is positioned forward of the rotation shaft 24. The two locking plates 85 are held on the fixed shaft 36 at a predetermined interval in the left-right direction.

[0049] Stopping claws 85a and 85b are formed on the lower end side of the locking plate 85, and are positioned further inward than the fixed shaft 85. Furthermore, stopping claw 85a is positioned further inward than stopping claw 85b. For example... Figure 2 As shown, when viewed from the left and right, the blocking claws 85a and 85b are triangular in shape, narrowing in width as they approach the front end. That is, the front ends of the blocking claws 85a and 85b are pointed. The sector gear 85c has multiple teeth that mesh with the spur gear 25. This sector gear 85c is formed on the inner end side of the locking plate 85. Specifically, the inner end side portion of the locking plate 85 is formed into a sector shape centered on the fixed shaft 36 when viewed from the left and right, and the sector gear 85c is formed on the inner end face of the locking plate 85.

[0050] The locking member 15 is positioned above the card transport path to prevent the claws 85a and 85b from contacting the card 2 from above. This locking member 15 can move between a contact position (preventing the claws 85a and 85b from contacting the card 2) and a retracted position (preventing the claws 85a and 85b from retracting from the card transport path) via power transmitted from the motor 14 via the power transmission mechanism 16. That is, the locking member 15 rotates about a fixed shaft 36 using power transmitted from the motor 14, moving between the contact position and the retracted position. When the locking member 15 is in the retracted position, the claws 85a and 85b are positioned above the card transport path and will not contact the card 2. On the other hand, when the locking member 15 is in the contact position, the front ends of the claws 85a and 85b can contact the card 2.

[0051] In this method, when the motor 14 rotates, the spur gear 25 moves towards... Figure 6 When rotated counterclockwise (counterclockwise rotation), the locking component 15 rotates around the fixed axis 36. Figure 6 Rotating clockwise, the locking member 15 moves from the retracted position to the contact position. At this time, the blocking claws 85a and 85b move downwards. Additionally, when the motor 14 rotates clockwise via the spur gear 25... Figure 6 When rotated clockwise, the locking component 15 rotates counterclockwise around the fixed axis 36, and moves from the contact position to the retracted position. At this time, the blocking claws 85a and 85b move upward.

[0052] The locking member 15 is fixed with guide pins 37 protruding to the left and right sides. The guide pins 37 engage with guide grooves (not shown) formed on the side surface 68a of the first frame 68 and guide grooves 69e formed on the inner side surface 69c of the second frame 69. The locking member 15, which moves between the contact position and the retracted position, is guided by the guide grooves and guide grooves 69e formed on the side surface 68a and the guide pins 37.

[0053] like Figure 2 As shown, when the locking member 15 is in the contact position, the blocking claw 85a tilts inward as it moves downward. Specifically, when the locking member 15 is in the contact position, the blocking claw 85a protrudes inward and downward with its triangular tip pointing inward and downward. Furthermore, when the locking member 15 is in the contact position, the blocking claw 85b tilts forward as it moves downward. Specifically, when the locking member 15 is in the contact position, the blocking claw 85b protrudes forward and downward with its triangular tip pointing forward and downward.

[0054] When a force is applied to pull the card 2 forward while it is in contact with the blocking claws 85a and 85b, a counterclockwise rotational force is generated on the locking member 15, preventing the tip of the claw 85a from inserting into the card 2. On the other hand, when a force is applied to press the card 2 inward while it is in contact with the blocking claws 85a and 85b, a clockwise rotational force is generated on the locking member 15, preventing the tip of the claw 85b from inserting into the card 2.

[0055] The detection mechanism 12 includes a sensor 40 and a shielding component 41 (see reference). Figure 4 , Figure 5The sensor 40 is fixed to the substrate fixing portion 68c of the first frame 68 via the sensor substrate 73. The shielding member 41 is disposed on the right side of the side portion 68a such that its thickness direction aligns with the left-right direction. Furthermore, the shielding member 41 is rotatably held on the fixing shaft 42 fixed to the side portion 68a. The fixing shaft 42 is configured such that its axial direction aligns with the left-right direction. A cam groove 41a is formed on the shielding member 41 through which the right end portion of the guide pin 37 is inserted (see reference). Figure 4 The shielding member 41 moves together with the locking member 15. Specifically, when the locking member 15 rotates, the shielding member 41 rotates about the fixed axis 42. Furthermore, when the locking member 15 is in the retracted position, the shielding member 41 blocks light from the light-emitting element of the sensor 40 towards the light-receiving element. Therefore, the detection mechanism 12 detects that the locking member 15 is in the retracted position.

[0056] A knob 71 is engaged at the upper end of the output shaft 14a of the motor 14. This knob 71 is an operating part used to release the locking mechanism 57 from locking the card 2 by manually rotating the output shaft 14a. Specifically, as Figure 6 As shown, a cylindrical engaging member 140, capable of engaging with a knob 71, is fixed to the upper end of the output shaft 14a of the motor 14. The engaging member 140 constitutes the upper end of the output shaft 14a. A helical gear 18 is fixed to the output shaft 14a between the engaging member 140 and the motor 14. The engaging member 140 consists of a large-diameter portion 140A and a small-diameter portion 140B, with a smaller planar area than the large-diameter portion 140A, extending upward from the upper surface of the large-diameter portion 140A. Figure 8 As shown, the outer peripheral surface of the large-diameter portion 140A of the engaged component 140 is... Figure 8 In this state, it is composed of curved surfaces C1 and C2 arranged in the left-right direction, a plane S1 parallel to the left-right direction connecting the inner edges of curved surfaces C1 and C2 to each other, and a plane S2 parallel to the left-right direction connecting the front edges of curved surfaces C1 and C2 to each other. The trajectories of curved surfaces C1 and C2 caused by the rotation of the output shaft 14a coincide with the same circle centered on the center of the output shaft 14a. The planar shape of the engaging component 140 is a shape that is rotationally symmetrical about the center of rotation of the output shaft 14a at 180°. That is, curved surfaces C1 and C2 are surfaces with the same curvature.

[0057] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the knob 71 is configured as a flanged cylinder, with its axial direction aligned with the vertical direction. The knob 71 has a cylindrical rotating component 712, which has a cylindrical inner circumference 711 with its axial direction aligned with the vertical direction (see reference). Figure 10The knob 71 has an annular flange 710 that protrudes radially outward from the upper end of the inner peripheral portion 711, and the outer peripheral surface 710s of the flange 710 is composed of a flat surface. The engaging member 140, which constitutes the upper end of the output shaft 14a of the motor 14, is inserted into the inner side of the inner peripheral portion 711 and is surrounded by the inner peripheral wall 71a of the inner peripheral portion 711. The knob 71 also has two engaging members (engaging member 71A and engaging member 71B) provided on the inner peripheral wall 71a of the inner peripheral portion 711. Engaging members 71A and engaging members 71B extend along the circumferential direction (rotation direction) of the output shaft 14a and are configured to engage with either the curved surface C1 or the curved surface C2, which is part of the outer peripheral surface of the engaging member 140.

[0058] like Figure 8 As shown, engaging member 71A and engaging member 71B are respectively disposed between the inner peripheral wall 71a of the inner peripheral portion 711 and the engaged member 140. Engaging member 71A is a plate-shaped component with its thickness direction aligned with the vertical direction, and has a root portion 71Ab protruding from the inner peripheral wall 71a, and one end of the root portion 71Ab extending circumferentially from the output shaft 14a along this circumferential direction (…). Figure 8 The arm 71Aa extends counterclockwise. The side surface 71As of the arm 71Aa on the engaging member 140 side is a curved surface shape corresponding to the curved surface C1 and the curved surface C2 respectively (a curved surface with the same curvature as the curved surface C1 and the curved surface C2 respectively). Figure 8 In the state shown, the side 71As of the arm 71Aa is in close contact with the curved surface C2.

[0059] Engaging component 71B Figure 8 In the top view shown, when the engaging member 71A is rotated 180° around the center of the output shaft 14a, the shape of the engaging member 71B is consistent with that of the engaging member 71A. That is, the engaging member 71A and the engaging member 71B are in a rotationally symmetric (double rotational symmetry) relationship around the center of the output shaft 14a. Specifically, the engaging member 71B is a plate-shaped part with the thickness direction aligned with the vertical direction, and has a root 71Bb protruding from the inner peripheral wall 71a, and one end of the root 71Bb extending circumferentially from the output shaft 14a along that circumferential direction ( Figure 8 The arm 71Ba extends in a counter-clockwise direction. The side surface 71Bs of the arm 71Ba on the engaging member 140 side has a curved surface shape corresponding to the curved surface C1 and curved surface C2 respectively (curvatures are the same as those of curved surfaces C1 and C2 respectively). Figure 8 In the state shown, the side 71Bs of the arm 71Ba is in close contact with the curved surface C1.

[0060] The front end portion 71Ae of the arm 71Aa of the engaging member 71A is thinner than the rest of the arm 71Aa. This front end portion 71Ae is configured to enter the inner side of an imaginary circle represented by the trajectory of the engaging member 140 when the output shaft 14a rotates one revolution. Similarly, the front end portion 71Be of the arm 71Ba of the engaging member 71B is thinner than the rest of the arm 71Ba. This front end portion 71Be is configured to enter the inner side of the aforementioned imaginary circle.

[0061] A gap SPa is provided between the side surface of the inner peripheral wall 71a on the inner peripheral wall side of arm 71Aa and the inner peripheral wall 71a. A gap SPb is provided between the side surface of the inner peripheral wall 71a on the inner peripheral wall side of arm 71Ba and the inner peripheral wall 71a. Engaging members 71A and 71B are each made of elastically deformable material. Due to the presence of gaps SPa and SPb, the arm 71Aa of engaging member 71A and the arm 71Ba of engaging member 71B can be displaced in a direction away from the engaged member 140 (a direction perpendicular to the output shaft 14a).

[0062] like Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, a portion of the lower surface of the engaging member 71A has a vertically extending portion 71Ac that protrudes downward and extends circumferentially along the output shaft 14a. The side of the vertically extending portion 71Ac on the side of the engaging member 140 has a curved shape corresponding to the curved surface C1 and the curved surface C2, respectively. The end edge of the vertically extending portion 71Ac on the side of the engaging member 140 overlaps with the end edge of the engaging member 140 of the engaging member 71A when viewed from above. A vertically extending portion 71Bc that protrudes downward and extends circumferentially along the output shaft 14a is provided on the lower surface of the engaging member 71B. The side of the vertically extending portion 71Bc on the side of the engaging member 140 has a curved shape corresponding to the curved surface C1 and the curved surface C2, respectively. The end edge of the vertically extending portion 71Bc on the side of the engaging member 140 overlaps with the end edge of the engaging member 140 of the engaging member 71B when viewed from above. The upper surface of the helical gear 18 abuts against the lower surfaces of the upright portion 71Ac and the upright portion 71Bc, respectively. The upright portions 71Ac and 71Bc are able to slide relative to the upper surface of the helical gear 18.

[0063] The engaging components 71A and 71B are configured such that arms 71Aa and 71Ba are respectively forced toward the engaged component 140. Therefore, in the state where no external force is applied to the knob 71, as... Figure 8 As shown, the engagement force between the arm 71Aa (and the standing part 71Ac) and the curved surface C2, and the engagement force between the arm 71Ba (and the standing part 71Bc) and the curved surface C1, results in the knob 71 being securely locked to the output shaft 14a. That is, the knob 71 also rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the output shaft 14a.

[0064] In this method, the output shaft 14a of the motor 14 directs... Figure 8 Rotating counterclockwise as shown, the locking component 15 rotates around the fixed axis 36. Figure 6 Rotating clockwise, the locking member 15 moves from the retracted position to the contact position. Furthermore, when the locking member 15 is in the retracted position, the output shaft 14a of the motor 14 is not... Figure 8 Rotate clockwise as shown.

[0065] To manually release the lock of the card 2 from the contact position of the locking member 15, manually rotate the rotating member 712 of the knob 71 towards... Figure 8 The motor 14 rotates clockwise as shown. With the locking member 15 in the contact position, the output shaft 14a of the motor 14 can rotate clockwise. Figure 8 The knob 71 rotates clockwise. Therefore, with the locking member 15 in the contact position, when the rotating member 712 of the knob 71 is turned clockwise... Figure 8 When rotated clockwise in the indicated state, the output shaft 14a rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the knob 71 due to the engaging force between the arm 71Aa (and the standing part 71Ac erected here) and the curved surface C2, and the engaging force between the arm 71Ba (and the standing part 71Bc erected here) and the curved surface C1. This allows the locking member 15 to move to the retracted position.

[0066] Assuming that the locking member 15 is in the retracted position, the rotating member 712 of the knob 71 is further moved... Figure 8 The state shown is a clockwise rotation. In this case, the output shaft 14a cannot easily rotate clockwise. Therefore, against the engaging force between the engaging member 71A and the engaged member 140, and the engaging force between the engaging member 71B and the engaged member 140, only the rotating member 712 starts to rotate. The front end 71Ae of the engaging member 71A abuts against the outer peripheral surface of the engaged member 140, and the front end 71Be of the engaging member 71B abuts against the outer peripheral surface of the engaged member 140. As a result, the engaging force between the arm 71Aa (and the erected part 71Ac) and the curved surface C2, and the engaging force between the arm 71Ba (and the erected part 71Bc) and the curved surface C1 are released.

[0067] Figure 12 This illustrates the situation where the locking component 15 is assumed to be in the retracted position. Figure 8 The diagram shows the state in which knob 71 is rotated clockwise. Figure 12In the indicated state, the arm 71Aa of the engaging member 71A moves away from the engaged member 140, and the arm 71Ba of the engaging member 71B moves away from the engaged member 140. The engaging force between the arm 71Aa and the curved surface C2, and the engaging force between the arm 71Ba and the curved surface C1, are released. Therefore, of the knob 71 and the output shaft 14a, only the knob 71 is easily rotated clockwise (i.e., idles). Thus, according to the locking mechanism 57, when the locking member 15 is in the retracted position, it is possible to prevent the application of a strong force to the output shaft 14a of the motor 14, thereby improving the durability of the locking mechanism 57.

[0068] (Other effects of this method)

[0069] In this configuration, not only engaging members 71A and 71B, but also the upright portion 71Ac on the lower surface of engaging member 71A and the upright portion 71Bc on the lower surface of engaging member 71B of knob 71 can engage with the engaged member 140. Therefore, when locking member 15 moves between the retracted position and the contact position, the engaging force between knob 71 and engaged member 140 can be sufficiently increased, and the rotational force of knob 71 can be effectively transmitted to output shaft 14a. On the other hand, when knob 71 is rotated clockwise while locking member 15 is in the retracted position, upright portions 71Ac and 71Bc also deform away from engaged member 140, thus making it easy for the user to perceive that knob 71 is idling.

[0070] Furthermore, the outer peripheral surface 710s of the flange portion 710, which is the manual operation part of the knob 71, is a flat surface throughout its entire circumference. Therefore, when rotating the flange portion 710 with a finger, it becomes difficult for force from the finger to act on the flange portion 710. As a result, excessive force can be prevented from being transmitted to the output shaft 14a, and the durability of the knob 71 and the locking mechanism 57 can be improved.

[0071] (Various variations)

[0072] The knob 71 has two engaging components, 71A and 71B. However, as long as the engaging force between the engaged component 140 and the knob 71 can be sufficiently ensured, there can be one or more engaging components. By using two, manufacturing costs can be reduced compared to using three or more. In addition, by using two, the engaging force between the output shaft 14a and the knob 71 can be easily stabilized, and the rotational force of the knob 71 can be effectively transmitted to the output shaft 14a. Furthermore, the idle torque of the knob 71 can be easily stabilized.

[0073] A mounting portion for mounting a device capable of rotating the output shaft 14a can also be provided on the output shaft 14a. The mounting portion could be, for example, a positively shaped hole formed on the upper end face of the output shaft 14a for a positive rotating device, or a negatively shaped hole formed on the upper end face of the output shaft 14a for a negative rotating device. If the mounting portion is a cross-shaped hole, the device could be a positive rotating device or a coin, etc.; if the mounting portion is a negatively shaped hole, the device could be a negative rotating device or a coin, etc. For example, to prevent the claws 85a and 85b from forcefully piercing the latch 2, it is assumed that the rotating member 712 will rotate freely even when the locking member 15 is in the contact position. According to the above structure, in this case, by using the device mounted on the mounting portion, the output shaft 14a can be rotated to pull the claws 85a and 85b out of the latch 2. After preventing the claws 85a and 85b from being pulled out of the card 2, by rotating the rotating component 712, the locking component 15 can be moved to the retracted position with less effort compared to using a tool to rotate the output shaft 14a.

[0074] Alternatively, the outer peripheral surface of the engaging member 140 of the output shaft 14a may have a first recess with a shape corresponding to the front end portion 71Ae of the engaging member 71A and a second recess with a shape corresponding to the front end portion 71Be of the engaging member 71B. The front end portion 71Ae engages with the first recess, and the front end portion 71Be engages with the second recess. With this structure, the engaging force between the first recess and the front end portion 71Ae, and the engaging force between the second recess and the front end portion 71Be, can be increased. This allows the rotational force of the rotating member 712 to be effectively transmitted to the output shaft 14a.

[0075] In the above configuration, the power transmission mechanism 16 includes spur gears 23 and 25, with spur gear 25 meshing with the sector gears 35b and 85c of the locking member 15. However, the power transmission mechanism 16 can also be configured such that spur gear 22 meshes with the sector gears 35b and 85c. In this case, spur gear 22 becomes the final stage gear. Furthermore, in the above configuration, the power transmission mechanism 16 includes spur gears 22, 23, and 25, but the power transmission mechanism 16 can also include helical gears instead of spur gears 22, 23, and 25. In this case, the sector gears 35b and 85c are configured to mesh with the helical gears. Additionally, in the above configuration, the locking member 15 can be rotatably held on the fixed shaft 36, but the locking member 15 can also be fixed on a rotating shaft that can be rotatably held on the support frame 17.

[0076] In the above configuration, the motor 14 is arranged such that the axial direction of the output shaft 14a is parallel to the vertical direction, and in the front-rear direction, the output shaft 14a, the rotating shaft 21, the rotating shaft 24, and the fixed shaft 36 are arranged in this order from the inside to the front. Alternatively, for example, the motor 14 may be arranged such that the axial direction of the output shaft 14a is parallel to the front-rear direction, and in the vertical direction, the output shaft 14a, the rotating shaft 21, the rotating shaft 24, and the fixed shaft 36 are arranged in this order from the top to the bottom. Even in this case, the locking plate 85 is formed to prevent the claws 85a and 85b from contacting the card 2 from the top. Furthermore, the locking member 15 and the power transmission mechanism 16 are arranged in the left-right direction between the side portion 68a and the side portion 69a, but a component of the power transmission mechanism 16 or the locking member 15 may also be arranged on the right side of the side portion 68a or the left side of the side portion 69a.

[0077] In the above-described manner, a card locking mechanism 57 is provided in the card reader 51 that processes card 2 with its long side aligned with the X-direction. Alternatively, for example, the card locking mechanism 57 may also be provided in a card reader that processes card 2 with its short side aligned with the X-direction.

[0078] As described above, the following matters are disclosed in this specification. Furthermore, elements corresponding to those in the above embodiments are indicated in parentheses, but the scope is not limited thereto.

[0079] (1) A card reader (card reader 51) comprising:

[0080] A card locking mechanism (card locking mechanism 57) that prevents the card (card 2) from being pulled out of the card insertion port (card insertion port 3) in the card transport path; and

[0081] The operating unit (knob 71) is used to manually release the card locking mechanism from locking the card.

[0082] The card locking mechanism includes a motor (motor 14) and a locking component (locking component 15). The locking component has a blocking claw (blocking claw 85a, 85b) that contacts the card to prevent it from being pulled out. The locking component moves between a contact position where the blocking claw contacts the card and a retracted position where the blocking claw retracts from the card's transport path, powered by a force transmitted from the motor.

[0083] The operating part includes: a cylindrical rotating component (rotating component 712) having an inner peripheral wall (inner peripheral wall 71a) surrounding the output shaft (output shaft 14a) of the motor; and engaging components (engaging components 71A, 71B) disposed on the inner peripheral wall, extending circumferentially along the output shaft and capable of engaging with the outer peripheral surface of the output shaft.

[0084] The engaging component is configured to elastically deform in a direction perpendicular to the output shaft.

[0085] According to (1), when the locking member is in the contact position, by rotating the rotating member, which includes the engaging member that engages with the output shaft, the rotational force applied to the rotating member is transmitted to the output shaft, allowing the locking member to move to the retracted position and release the lock. Furthermore, when the locking member moves to the retracted position, making it difficult for the output shaft to rotate further, if the rotating member rotates further from this position, the engaging member deforms and releases its engagement with the output shaft, resulting in only the output shaft and the rotating member rotating (idling). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the application of strong forces to the output shaft of the motor, thus improving the durability of the locking mechanism.

[0086] (2) The card reader according to (1), wherein,

[0087] The rotating component is provided with a plurality of engaging components.

[0088] According to (2), the engagement force between the output shaft and the rotating component can be easily stabilized.

[0089] It can effectively transmit the rotational force of the rotating parts to the output shaft. In addition, it can easily stabilize the idle torque of the rotating parts.

[0090] (3) The card reader according to (2), wherein,

[0091] Viewed from the extension direction of the output shaft, the plurality of engaging components are rotationally symmetrical about the center of the output shaft.

[0092] According to (3), the engagement force between the output shaft and the rotating component can be stabilized, and the rotational force of the rotating component can be effectively transmitted to the rotating shaft. In addition, the idle torque of the rotating component can be stabilized.

[0093] (4) The card reader according to (3), wherein,

[0094] The engaging member has a root portion (root portion 71Ab, 71Bb) protruding from the inner peripheral wall and an arm portion (arm portion 71Aa, 71Ba) extending circumferentially from one end of the root portion on the output shaft.

[0095] A gap (gap SPa, SPb) is formed between the arm and the inner peripheral wall.

[0096] The arm is configured to be displaceable.

[0097] According to (4), the engagement force between the output shaft and the rotating component can be stabilized, and the rotational force of the rotating component can be effectively transmitted to the rotating shaft. In addition, the idle torque of the rotating component can be stabilized.

[0098] (5) The card reader according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein,

[0099] The output shaft is provided with a mounting part for mounting a device that can rotate the output shaft.

[0100] For example, assuming that the rotating part spins even when the locking part is in the contact position, the reason is to prevent the pawl from forcefully piercing the card. According to (5), in this case, the output shaft can be rotated using a tool mounted on the mounting part to pull the pawl out of the card. After the pawl is pulled out of the card, the locking part can be moved to the retracted position with less effort than rotating the output shaft using a tool.

[0101] (6) A card reader according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein,

[0102] A recess with a shape corresponding to the front end of the engaging component is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the output shaft.

[0103] The front end of the engaging component engages with the recess.

[0104] According to (6), the engagement force between the output shaft and the engagement component can be increased by engaging the recess with the front end of the engagement component. As a result, the rotational force of the rotating component can be effectively transmitted to the output shaft.

[0105] (7) The card reader according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein,

[0106] The outer peripheral surface (outer peripheral surface 710s) of the rotating component is flat.

[0107] According to (7), when rotating the rotating component with a finger, it is difficult for force from the finger to be applied to the rotating component. This prevents excessive force from being transmitted to the output shaft and improves the durability of the rotating component and the locking mechanism.

Claims

1. A card reader, comprising: Card locking mechanism, which prevents a card from being pulled out of the card insertion port in the card delivery path; and An operating unit is provided for manually releasing the card from the card locking mechanism. The card locking mechanism has a motor and a locking component. The locking component has a blocking claw that contacts the card to prevent the card from being pulled out, and moves between a contact position where the blocking claw contacts the card and a retraction position where the blocking claw retracts from the card delivery path by a power transmitted from the motor. The operating part includes: a cylindrical rotating component having an inner peripheral wall surrounding the output shaft of the motor; and an engaging component disposed on the inner peripheral wall, extending circumferentially along the output shaft and capable of engaging with the outer peripheral surface of the output shaft. The engaging component is configured to elastically deform in a direction perpendicular to the output shaft.

2. The card reader according to claim 1, wherein, The rotating component is provided with a plurality of engaging components.

3. The card reader according to claim 2, wherein, The plurality of engaging components, when viewed from the extension direction of the output shaft, have a rotationally symmetrical shape with the center of the output shaft as the center of rotation.

4. The card reader according to claim 3, wherein, The engaging member has a root protruding from the inner peripheral wall and an arm extending circumferentially from one end of the root of the output shaft. A gap is formed between the arm portion and the inner peripheral wall. The arm is configured to be displaceable.

5. The card reader according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The output shaft is provided with a mounting part for mounting a device that can rotate the output shaft.

6. The card reader according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, A recess with a shape corresponding to the front end of the engaging member is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the output shaft. The front end of the engaging component engages with the recess.

7. The card reader according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The outer peripheral surface of the rotating component is flat.

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