Coin hopper and coin processing device

Abstract

To provide a coin hopper, a rotor of the coin hopper, and a coin processing device that can reduce abrasion of an abutting portion of the rotor mounted on the coin hopper with a coin, prevent damage to the rotor, and can convey the coin suitably.SOLUTION: A rotor 70 has a three-body structure of a first resin rotor, a second resin rotor, and a metal rotor. Part of the metal rotor is bent to obtain pushing pieces 77 that push a coin. The pushing pieces 77 are inserted in through-holes 79 provided on the first resin rotor and are arranged to be able to abut on a coin located on a base. The first resin rotor and the second resin rotor are fitted together and fixed with the metal rotor interposed therebetween. When the rotor is rotated, the pushing pieces 77 made of metal abut on a circumferential surface of the coin on the base to push the coin. An abutting portion with the coin is made of metal, thereby preventing abrasion of and damage to the rotor and suitably conveying the coin.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 14

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a coin hopper that delivers coins one by one, a rotating body used in the coin hopper, and a coin processing device equipped with the coin hopper. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Coin hoppers are known that include a container for storing a plurality of coins and that discharge the coins stored in the container one by one.

[0003] For example, the coin hopper described in JP 2008-204156 A includes a storage bowl for storing a large number of coins, and a dispensing means for discharging the coins from the storage bowl one by one. An opening is provided at the bottom of the storage bowl. A rotor is disposed on the upper surface of the dispensing means, facing the opening. The rotor is provided with a plurality of through holes through which the coins enter. Coins that enter the through holes of the rotor are held on a flat base disposed on the rear side of the rotor. A push protrusion for pushing the coin is provided on the side of the through hole. As the rotor rotates, the coin is pushed by the push protrusion and moves on the base. The coin that has moved to a predetermined position on the base has its direction of movement changed by a pin of the dispensing means, and is discharged to an outlet passage. The coins in the storage bowl are stirred by the rotation of the rotor.

[0004] The pushing protrusion comes into contact with the coin that has entered the through hole, and pushes the coin in the direction of movement as the rotating body rotates. The pushing protrusion is subject to wear and scratches due to contact with the coin. To address this issue, a rotating body reinforced with a reinforcing material has been considered. The rotating body is formed by inserting a metal plate into the resin through integral molding. Reinforcing the rotating body with the metal plate improves its durability. A coin hopper that takes such durability into consideration has been devised.

[0005] Furthermore, circulating currency issued by a nation includes coins of multiple denominations. Since coins have different diameters, thicknesses, materials, and designs for each denomination, anyone can easily identify the denomination. The coin processing device detects the characteristics of the coin and identifies the denomination. The coin processing device can also store the identified coins in a container by denomination. The coin processing device identifies the denomination of the coin, stores the coins by denomination, and dispenses the stored coins as necessary. The coin processing device stores the coins in a coin hopper by denomination, and can dispense the desired amount of coins by controlling the coin hopper.

[0006] For example, a coin depositing and dispensing machine disclosed in JP 2017-151818 A is known as an example of a coin processing device. Another example of a coin processing device is an automatic change machine. An automatic change machine stores inserted coins by denomination. Then, the automatic change machine calculates the denomination and number of coins to be dispensed based on the amount of change. Then, the automatic change machine controls the coin hopper corresponding to each denomination based on the calculated denomination and number to dispense the coins.

[0007] Compared to a metallic rotor, a resin rotor can be made lighter but has inferior durability. Therefore, it has been considered to make a part of the rotor out of metal. One method is the above-mentioned rotor in which a metal plate is inserted into resin by integral molding. Another method is the rotating disk described in JP 2003-20127 A. In this rotating disk, an extruded disk with a metallic pushing protrusion is fixed to a resin disk by screws. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] JP 2008-204156 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2017-151818 A [Patent Document 3] JP 2003-20127 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] Conventionally, a rotating body made of a metal plate and resin was considered. In conventional rotating bodies, the circumference of a metal plate was covered with resin, and the strength of the resin layer was improved by the metal plate. In addition, the pushing protrusion that pushes the coin was reinforced by a metal plate in the resin layer. Even if a metal plate was inserted in the rotating body, there was a problem that the exposed resin part was damaged by contact with the coin. Depending on the position of the damage to the rotating body, the rotating body may not function normally. Also, if a foreign object other than the coin enters the container, the rotating body may come into contact with the foreign object and become worn or damaged. In the worst case, the rotating body becomes unusable and needs to be replaced. Even if there is a problem with only one part of an integrally molded rotating body, the entire rotating body needs to be replaced. Such a rotating body has a problem that even if there is a usable part, it must be replaced, and the usable part goes to waste.

[0010] Rotating bodies integrally molded from resin and metal have the problem of peeling off when the joint between the metal and resin is subjected to repeated impacts. The strength of the joint can be improved by additional processing such as surface treatment of metal parts and making the shape more complex. However, on the other hand, rotating bodies with improved strength at the joint between the metal and resin have problems such as an increase in the number of manufacturing steps, the complexity of the parts, and the increase in the time required to manufacture the parts.

[0011] In addition, the rotating disk to which the pusher disk equipped with a metal pusher protrusion for pushing the coin is screwed has the pusher protrusion formed by bending the metal plate twice. The tip of the pusher protrusion abuts against the coin to push it. Because the pusher disk is screwed to the resin disk, force is applied to the bent part of the pusher protrusion when pushing the coin. This means that there is a risk that the bent part of the pusher protrusion may bend and deform. Also, in order to sufficiently increase the strength, it is necessary to use a thick metal plate, which causes the rotating disk to become heavy. Also, because the pusher protrusion is formed by bending the metal plate, and the tip of the metal plate abuts against the coin, there is a problem that the edge of the metal plate may damage the coin.

[0012] In addition, because the extrusion disk is fixed to the resin disk by screws, the manufacturing process and quality control are complicated, including the tightening of the screws and torque management. If the screws become loose, the extrusion disk may move relative to the resin disk, causing the coin to get under the extrusion disk and cause a jam.

[0013] Conventional coin processing devices using coin hoppers have a problem that coins are not dispensed properly if the rotating body malfunctions. Therefore, coin hoppers with high durability are desired. Coin hoppers that can be easily maintained in case of malfunction are also desired. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] The coin hopper of the present invention comprises a container for storing coins, a base for supporting the coins, and a rotating body having a plurality of separation holes for holding the coins one by one, the rotating body being fixed to a rotating shaft and arranged opposite the base, and the coin that has entered the separation holes is pushed and moved in the outer circumferential direction of the rotating body by rotating the rotating body, and discharged. The coin hopper is characterized in that the rotating body comprises a first resin rotating body made of resin, a second resin rotating body made of resin, and a metal rotating body having arms extending radially from the center to the outer periphery corresponding to the separation holes, the first resin rotating body having a first abutment portion and the second resin rotating body having a second abutment portion, and the rotating body is fixed in a state in which the metal rotating body is disposed between the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body by engaging the first abutment portion and the second abutment portion. The coin processing device of the present invention comprises the above-mentioned coin hopper and a coin receiving unit that receives and collects the coins discharged from the coin hopper, wherein a plurality of coin hoppers are arranged, and the coin receiving unit receives the coins discharged from each of the coin hoppers.

[0015] Another aspect of the present invention is a coin hopper comprising a container for storing coins, a base for supporting the coins, and a rotor having a plurality of separation holes for holding the coins one by one, fixed to a rotation shaft, and disposed opposite the base. The coin hopper rotates the rotor to push the coins that have entered the separation holes, move them in the outer circumferential direction of the rotor, and discharge them. The rotor comprises a first resin rotor, a metal rotor having metal pusher pieces disposed at each of the separation holes for pushing the coins, and a second resin rotating body made of resin, wherein the first resin rotating body has a first abutment portion, the second resin rotating body has a second abutment portion, the metal rotating body is disposed between the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body with the pushing piece exposed from the first resin rotating body, the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body are fixed by engaging the first abutment portion and the second abutment portion, and the coin on the base is pushed by the pushing piece exposed from the first resin rotating body. A coin processing device according to another aspect of the present invention comprises the above-mentioned coin hopper and a coin receiving unit that receives and collects the coins discharged from the coin hopper, wherein a plurality of coin hoppers are arranged, and the coin receiving unit receives the coins discharged from each of the coin hoppers. In another embodiment of the present invention, a rotating body of a coin hopper includes a container for storing coins, a base for supporting the coins, and a rotating body having a plurality of separation holes for holding the coins one by one, the rotating body being fixed to a rotating shaft and disposed opposite the base, and the rotating body is rotated to push the coins that have entered the separation holes, move them in the outer circumferential direction of the rotating body, and discharge the coins. The rotating body includes a first resin rotating body made of resin, and a metal rotating body having metal pusher pieces for pushing the coins, which are disposed for each of the separation holes. The metal rotating body has a rolling body and a second resin rotating body made of resin, the first resin rotating body has a first abutment portion and the second resin rotating body has a second abutment portion, the metal rotating body is arranged between the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body with the pushing piece exposed from the first resin rotating body, the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body are fixed by engaging the first abutment portion and the second abutment portion, and the coin on the base is pushed by the pushing piece exposed from the first resin rotating body. Another embodiment of the coin hopper of the present invention comprises a container for storing coins, a base for supporting the coins, and a rotor having a plurality of separation holes for holding the coins one by one, fixed to a rotation shaft, and disposed opposite the base. The coin hopper rotates the rotor to push the coins that have entered the separation holes, move them in the outer circumferential direction of the rotor, and discharge them. The rotor is made up of a first resin rotor, a metal rotor with metal pusher pieces for pushing the coins, disposed for each separation hole, and a second resin rotor. The coin-shaped coin holder has a resin rotating body, wherein the first resin rotating body has a first abutment portion, the second resin rotating body has a second abutment portion, the metal rotating body is sandwiched between the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body with the pushing piece exposed from the first resin rotating body, and the first resin rotating body, the metal rotating body and the second resin rotating body are fixed by engaging the first abutment portion and the second abutment portion, and the coin-shaped coin holder has a resin rotating body and a metal rotating body. Another aspect of the coin processing device of the present invention includes the above-mentioned coin hopper and a coin receiving unit that receives and collects the coins discharged from the coin hopper, wherein a plurality of coin hoppers are arranged and the coin receiving unit receives the coins discharged from each of the coin hoppers. Another embodiment of the present invention is a coin hopper rotor comprising a container for storing coins, a base for supporting the coins, and a rotor having a plurality of separation holes for holding the coins one by one, fixed to a rotation shaft, and disposed opposite the base. By rotating the rotor, the coins that have entered the separation holes are pushed and moved in the outer circumferential direction of the rotor, and discharged. In the coin hopper rotor, the rotor comprises a first resin rotor made of resin, a metal rotor having metal pusher pieces for pushing the coins, which are disposed at each of the separation holes, and a second resin rotor. and a second resin rotating body made of a resin material, the first resin rotating body having a first abutment portion, the second resin rotating body having a second abutment portion, the metal rotating body being sandwiched between the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body with the pushing piece exposed from the first resin rotating body, the first resin rotating body, the metal rotating body and the second resin rotating body being fixed together by engaging the first abutment portion and the second abutment portion, and the coin on the base is pushed by the pushing piece exposed from the first resin rotating body. Another aspect of the present invention is a coin hopper comprising: a container for storing coins; a base for supporting the coins; a rotor having a plurality of separation holes for holding the coins one by one, the rotor being fixed to a rotation shaft and disposed facing the base; and a control pin disposed on a transport path for the coins held by the rotor and contacting the transported coin to change the direction of movement of the coin. The coin hopper transports the coins stored in the container over the base while held in the separation holes, causes the coins to contact the control pins, and moves the coins in the discharge direction. The rotor comprises a first resin rotor and a metal rotor having metal pusher pieces disposed at each of the separation holes for pushing the coins. and a second resin rotating body made of resin, wherein the metal rotating body has a first through hole, the first resin rotating body or the second resin rotating body has a positioning protrusion at a position corresponding to the first through hole, the first resin rotating body has a first abutment portion, and the second resin rotating body has a second abutment portion, the metal rotating body is sandwiched between the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body with the pushing piece exposed from the first resin rotating body, the positioning protrusion fits into the first through hole and restricts relative movement with the metal rotating body in the rotational direction, and the first resin rotating body, the metal rotating body, and the second resin rotating body are fixed by engaging the first abutment portion and the second abutment portion. A coin processing device according to another aspect of the present invention comprises the above-mentioned coin hopper and a coin receiving unit that receives and collects the coins discharged from the coin hopper, wherein a plurality of coin hoppers are arranged, and the coin receiving unit receives the coins discharged from each of the coin hoppers.

[0016] A rotating body of a coin hopper according to another aspect of the present invention comprises a container for storing coins, a base for supporting the coins, a rotating body having a plurality of separation holes for holding the coins one by one, the rotating body being fixed to a rotation shaft and disposed facing the base, and a control pin that is disposed on a transport path for the coins held by the rotating body and abuts against the coin being transported to change the moving direction of the coin, and the coin hopper transports the coins stored in the container over the base while being held in the separation holes, causes the coins to abut against the control pin, and moves the coins in the discharging direction. The rotating body comprises a first resin rotating body made of resin, and a metal pusher piece for pushing the coin is disposed for each of the separation holes. The metal rotating body has a rotating body and a second resin rotating body made of resin, the metal rotating body has a first through hole, the first resin rotating body or the second resin rotating body has a positioning protrusion at a position corresponding to the first through hole, the first resin rotating body has a first abutment portion, and the second resin rotating body has a second abutment portion, the metal rotating body is sandwiched between the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body with the pushing piece exposed from the first resin rotating body, the positioning protrusion fits into the first through hole and restricts relative movement with the metal rotating body in the rotational direction, and the first resin rotating body, the metal rotating body, and the second resin rotating body are fixed by engaging the first abutment portion and the second abutment portion. Effect of the Invention

[0017] According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the durability of the rotating body and the coin hopper. The coin hopper with improved durability can reduce or prevent failure of the coin dispensing in the coin processing device. In addition, it is possible to provide a rotating body, a coin hopper, and a coin processing device with excellent maintainability. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a coin hopper. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the coin hopper with the coin container removed. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the rotating body. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the rear side of the rotor. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the rear side of the rotating body. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a first diagram illustrating the structure of a rotor. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a second diagram illustrating the structure of the rotor. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram explaining the operation of the coin hopper. FIG. 8(a) is a diagram explaining a first state of the operation of the coin hopper. FIG. 8(b) is a diagram explaining a second state of the operation of the coin hopper. FIG. 8(c) is a diagram explaining a third state of the operation of the coin hopper. FIG. 8(d) is a diagram explaining a fourth state of the operation of the coin hopper. FIG. 8(e) is a diagram explaining a fifth state of the operation of the coin hopper. FIG. 8(f) is a diagram explaining a sixth state of the operation of the coin hopper. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a coin processing device. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating an example of the second rotating body. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a first diagram illustrating the structure of an example of the second rotating body. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a second diagram illustrating the structure of the second example of the rotating body. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a third diagram illustrating the structure of the example of the second rotating body. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the back surface side illustrating an example of the second rotating body. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a top view illustrating an example of the third rotating body. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a first diagram illustrating the structure of an example of the third rotating body. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a second diagram illustrating the structure of the third example of the rotating body. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the back surface side illustrating an example of the third rotating body. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a first diagram illustrating the structure of an example of the fourth rotating body. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a second diagram illustrating the structure of the fourth example of the rotating body. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0019] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Each drawing is merely a schematic illustration to the extent that the present invention can be fully understood. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated examples. In each drawing, common or similar components are given the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations thereof will be omitted.

[0020] First, the coin hopper will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a perspective view of the coin hopper.

[0021] The coin hopper 1 comprises a container 2 for storing coins 10, and a main body 3 for separating and paying out the coins 10 one by one. The container 2 can be attached to and detached from the main body 3. A guide unit 8, which is a substantially circular opening, is provided at the bottom of the container 2. A rotating body 5 is provided at the top of the main body 3. The guide unit 8 is disposed along the outer periphery of the rotating body 5, and guides the coins 10 so that they are piled up on the rotating body 5.

[0022] The rotor 5 is provided with a number of separation holes 6. The separation holes 6 are through holes that penetrate the rotor 5 from the front to the back. The coin 10 enters the separation holes 6 and is slid on the base 7 by the rotor 5. A control pin is provided at a predetermined position on the base 7. The coin 10 that comes into contact with the control pin changes course towards the payout outlet 4 and is discharged from the payout outlet 4.

[0023] A flat base 7 is provided on the top of the main body 3, and the rotor 5 rotates above it. A guide portion 8 for the container 2 is arranged along the outer periphery of the rotor 5. The rotor 5 faces the opening of the guide portion 8. The base 7 is inclined so that the side where the payout outlet 4 is located is vertically higher than the opposite side. Because the base 7 is inclined, coins 10 tend to collect on the lower side of the container 2. As the rotor 5 passes under the piled up coins 10, the coins 10 enter the separation hole 6. The coins 10 are carried to the payout outlet 4 by the rotor 5.

[0024] In this manner, the coin hopper 1 places the coins 10 in the container 2 one by one into the separation hole 6 of the rotor 5, carries them to the payout outlet 4, and discharges them.

[0025] Furthermore, the size, material, design, and other elements of the coin 10 differ for each denomination. In the coin processing device, a coin hopper 1 of a predetermined denomination is attached to a predetermined position. To this end, the coin hopper 1 is provided with an identification hole 9 corresponding to the denomination. The coin processing device is provided with a protrusion at a predetermined position corresponding to the identification hole 9. The coin hopper 1 having the corresponding identification hole 9 is set in a predetermined position in the coin processing device.

[0026] The coin hopper 1 will now be described in more detail. Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the coin hopper with the coin container removed.

[0027] The coin hopper 1 is provided with a motor 11 for driving the rotor 5. The rotation of the motor 11 is controlled by a control circuit (not shown). Inside the main body 3, a gear (not shown) is provided that connects the motor 11 and a rotating shaft (not shown) to which the rotor 5 is fixed. The rotating shaft is passed through a through hole provided in the base 7. The rotor 5 is fixed to the rotating shaft protruding from the base 7. The stirring unit 12 is a protrusion provided at the center of rotation of the rotor 5, and stirs the coins 10 so that they do not remain in a biased position. In addition, inside the stirring unit 12, a mechanism is provided for fixing the rotor 5 to the rotating shaft. In addition, strength can be improved by making the part fixed to the rotating shaft out of metal. For example, the stirring unit 12 may be made of metal. In addition, the rotor 5 is provided with a stirring blade 18. The stirring blade 18 is a protrusion provided on the surface of the rotor 5. The accumulated coins 10 are stirred by the stirring blade 18. The stirring blades 18 are arranged radially from the center of the rotor 5. In order to enhance the mixing capacity, recesses are provided between adjacent mixing blades 18, making the surface of the rotor 5 complex.

[0028] The unevenness on the surface of the rotating body 5 effectively agitates the accumulated coins 10, making it easier for the coins 10 to enter the separation hole 6. This makes the rotating body 5 thick. To make the rotating body 5 lighter, part of the rotating body 5 is made of plastic and part is made of metal. The rotating body 5 can be made lighter while maintaining its strength. Also, by making the part of the rotating body 5 that comes into contact with the coins 10 out of metal, wear and damage due to contact with the coins 10 can be prevented.

[0029] The rotating body 5 rotates counterclockwise. A groove is provided on the back side of the rotating body 5 to avoid the control pin 13. A pushing piece for pushing the coin 10 is arranged on the back side of the rotating body 5. A groove is also arranged between the outer periphery of the rotating body 5 and the separation hole 6, through which the coin 10 can pass. The coin 10 that enters the separation hole 6 abuts against the control pin 13 and is guided toward the payout outlet 4. The coin 10 enters while being pushed between the fixed roller 15 and the moving roller 16. The moving roller 16 is biased in the direction of the fixed roller 15. When the coin 10 enters between the fixed roller 15 and the moving roller 16 more than halfway, the coin 10 passes between the fixed roller 15 and the moving roller 16. At that time, the coin 10 is moved vigorously to the payout outlet 4 by the biasing force of the moving roller 16. The discharge sensor 14 detects the coin 10 to be discharged. The detection result is output to a control circuit (not shown). The control circuit can count the coins 10 to be discharged. The control pin 13 is disposed in the transport path along which the coin 10 is transported by the rotating body 5 .

[0030] An outer wall 17 that restricts the movement of coins 10 is provided outside the outer circumference of the rotating body 5. In order to guide coins 10 to the payout outlet 4, the outer wall 17 is not provided at least between the fixed roller 15 and the moving roller 16. Coins 10 can be moved toward the payout outlet 4 from this portion.

[0031] Next, the rotating body 5 will be described. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the rotating body. A commonly used coin 10 is made of metal. The upper surface side of the rotating body 5 is a first resin part 20 made of resin such as plastic. In terms of strength, durability, workability, etc., the material of the first resin part 20 is preferably engineering plastic. The rotating body 5 is divided into three members, which will be described later.

[0032] The rotating body 5 is worn by contacting the coin 10. Therefore, the rotating body 5 has a metal part and a resin part in order to reduce or prevent wear. The entire rotating body 5 can be made of metal. However, in order to make the rotating body 5 lighter, it is preferable to make a part of the rotating body 5 made of resin such as plastic. Furthermore, by making the part of the rotating body 5 that is subject to heavy wear from metal, the durability of the rotating body 5 can be increased. The part of the rotating body 5 that is subject to heavy wear is the pushing piece that pushes the coin 10 inserted in the separation hole 6. The pushing piece pushes the coin 10 while it is in contact with the control pin 13 (FIG. 2), the fixed roller 15 (FIG. 2), and the moving roller 16 (FIG. 2). Therefore, a force equivalent to the pushing force acts on the pushing piece as a reaction force. In particular, the force is applied to the end of the pushing piece. Therefore, by making the pushing piece from metal, durability is improved. The pushing piece is disposed on the back side of the rotating body 5.

[0033] The rotating body 5 is provided with five separation holes 6. The rotating body 5 is provided with at least one separation hole 6. The maximum number of separation holes 6 is determined based on the size of the rotating body 5 and the size of the coin 10.

[0034] Next, the back side of the rotating body 5 will be described. Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating the back side of the rotating body.

[0035] The rotor 5 has a shaft hole 23 in the center thereof, into which the rotor shaft of the rotor 5 is inserted. The rotor shaft has a locking portion that passes through the center of the shaft and is arranged perpendicular to the axial direction. A shaft locking groove 24 that engages with the locking portion is arranged in the center of the rotor 5.

[0036] The first resin part 20 has five separation holes 6 at equal distances from the center of rotation and at equal intervals. The separation holes 6 are through holes that penetrate the front and back of the first resin part 20. The surrounding area of ​​the separation holes 6 is made thick. The metal part 22 is made of a flat metal plate except for the push piece 25, and is arranged parallel to the base 7 (Fig. 2). The push piece 25 is formed by bending the edge of the flat plate almost perpendicularly toward the base 7 (Fig. 2). The surface of the push piece 25 that comes into contact with the coin is flat. For example, the metal part 22 can be easily made by cutting out the outer periphery of a flat plate by press processing, and bending the portion of the push piece 25 by press processing. The metal part 22 does not require surface treatment to provide minute irregularities on the surface.

[0037] A recess 31 is formed on the back surface side of the first resin part 20 of the rotor 5, with the central part including the periphery of the shaft hole 23 and the shaft locking groove 24, the peripheral part of the first resin part 20, and the peripheral part of the separation hole 6 protruding, and opening to the back surface side of the rotor 5. A positioning protrusion 33 is provided in the recess 31 between adjacent separation holes 6. The positioning protrusion 33 is a protrusion provided on the back surface side of the first resin part 20. The recess 31 accommodates the metal part 22. The metal part 22 has a through hole in the protruding part in the center of the first resin part 20 and in a part corresponding to the positioning protrusion 33. The metal part 22 fits into the protruding part in the center of the first resin part 20 and is fixed to the first resin part 20. The metal part 22 arranged in the recess 31 fits into the positioning protrusion 33 and is fixed to the first resin part 20. The metal part 22 is a metal plate such as an iron alloy such as stainless steel or an aluminum alloy. Metal part 22 has a bent part between adjacent separation holes 6, and the bent part functions as push piece 25. Each positioning protrusion 33 is disposed at an equal distance from the rotation center of rotor 5. Push pieces 25 are disposed on a circumference whose radius is the distance from the rotation center to positioning protrusion 33. Reverse rotation piece 26 that abuts against the coin when rotor 5 is rotated in the reverse direction is also disposed on a circumference whose radius is the distance from the rotation center to positioning protrusion 33. Push piece 25 is formed by bending a flat plate, so the surface that abuts against the coin is flat.

[0038] The reversing piece 26 is disposed on the forward rotation direction side of the separation hole 6 of the rotating body 5. The pushing piece 25 is disposed on the reverse rotation direction side of the separation hole 6 of the rotating body 5. The pushing piece 25 pushes the coin 10 when the rotating body 5 rotates forward, and the reversing piece 26 pushes the coin 10 when the rotating body 5 rotates reverse. In other words, the coin that enters the separation hole 6 is positioned between the pushing piece 25 and the reversing piece 26 and is transported.

[0039] A linear locking fitting groove 37 is formed in a peripheral portion of the first resin part 20 that forms the inner wall of the recess 31. The locking fitting groove 37 is formed in the inner wall on the outer periphery of the recess 31. The locking fitting groove 37 is a groove that fits with a locking fitting protrusion (described below) provided in the second resin part 21. The locking fitting groove 37 is disposed along the outer periphery of the first resin part 20, and has a narrow, elongated shape.

[0040] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the rear side of the rotating body. This is a perspective view of the rotating body 5 as viewed from the rear side. The rotating body 5 includes a metal part 22 and resin parts of the first resin part 20 and the second resin part 21. The metal part 22 is inserted into the recess 31 of the first resin part 20. The second resin part 21 is fixed to the first resin part 20. The metal part 22 is sandwiched and fixed between the first resin part 20 and the second resin part 21. The second resin part 21 is provided with a push piece hole 30, which is a through hole, at a position corresponding to the push piece 25 of the metal part 22. In addition, the second resin part 21 is provided with a through hole in a portion corresponding to the positioning protrusion 33. The second resin part 21 covers the metal part 22 so that the metal part 22 inserted in the recess 31 does not come off. The push piece 25 is disposed so as to pass through the push piece hole 30 and protrude from the resin part. The metal part 22 can be fixed to the second resin part 21 by fitting the push piece 25 into the push piece hole 30. The first resin part 20 and the second resin part 21 can be said to be a first resin rotor that forms the resin part of the rotor 5, and the metal part 22 can be said to be a metal rotor that forms the metal part of the rotor 5. The push pieces 25 are arranged for each separation hole 6 provided in the rotor 5. The central convex part 34 corresponds to the push piece 25 and is provided at a position adjacent to the push piece 25. In other words, the central convex part 34 is provided for each push piece 25, and prevents the push piece 25 from deforming in the rotation direction of the rotor 5. The metal part exposed from the second resin part 21 to the base 7 side is only the push piece 25 exposed from the push piece hole 30. The part of the metal part that touches the coin is minimized. It can also be said that the part of the resin part that receives a strong force from the coin 10 is replaced with a metal part.

[0041] A first step portion 28 and a second step portion 29 are arranged on the outer periphery of the first resin portion 20 in correspondence with each separation hole 6. The first step portion 28 and the second step portion 29 are arranged on the outer periphery of the first resin portion 20 in correspondence with the separation hole 6 to form unevenness. Five outer periphery protrusions 32 are formed on the outer periphery of the first resin portion 20. A recess is formed between the outer periphery protrusions 32, and the coin 10 that has entered the separation hole 6 can pass through. The coin 10 that has entered through the separation hole 6 can move through a passage that is wider than the opening of the separation hole 6 provided on the back side of the first resin portion 20 and the second resin portion 21. The passage is set to a size that can accommodate one coin 10, so that another coin 10 cannot enter through the separation hole 6 while the coin 10 is present.

[0042] The second resin part 21 has a radially extending base part 36, and an inner peripheral convex part 35 and a central convex part 34 that protrude from the base part 36. The central convex part 34 has a through hole through which the positioning protrusion 33 passes. The second resin part 21 is made of a resin such as plastic. The second resin part 21 is preferably made of an engineering plastic. Also, the second resin part 21 is preferably made of the same material as the first resin part 20. Since the second resin part 21 does not come into contact with the coin 10, it may be made of a resin that is inferior in durability in contact with the coin 10 compared to the first resin part 20.

[0043] The rotating body 5 is located above the base 7 (Fig. 2). In order for the rotating body 5 to rotate, a groove is required to avoid the control pin 13 (Fig. 2). The pushing piece 25, the central convex portion 34, and the reversing piece 26 are arranged between the inner peripheral convex portion 35 and the outer peripheral convex portion 32, and form a concentric concave-convex shape. When the rotating body 5 rotates, the control pin 13 (Fig. 2) passes through the concentric concave portion. The surfaces of the pushing piece 25, the central convex portion 34, the reversing piece 26, the inner peripheral convex portion 35, and the outer peripheral convex portion 32 are formed to be approximately flush. The positioning protrusion 33 is provided so as to be flush with the central convex portion 34 or not to protrude.

[0044] The coin 10 that has entered the separation hole 6 is surrounded by the push piece 25, the reversing piece 26, the central convex portion 34, and the outer peripheral convex portion 32, and is conveyed while the range of movement is limited. When the rotating body 5 rotates forward, it is pushed by the push piece 25 to move. When the rotating body 5 rotates reversely, it is pushed by the reversing piece 26 to move. The reversing piece 26 is made of resin, but can also be formed by bending the metal part 22 like the push piece 25. The rotating body 5 is reversed less frequently than it is rotated forward. Therefore, the reversing piece 26 is less likely to be worn or damaged by contact with the coin 10 than the push piece 25. The reversing piece 26 can be made of resin, but is more preferably made of metal. Like the push piece 25, the reversing piece 26 can be formed by bending a part of the metal part 22. The metal part 22 is made of a material harder than the first resin part 20 and the second resin part 21. The durability of the rotating body 5 can be sufficiently increased by the metal part 22. If the durability of the rotating body 5 is sufficiently high, the frequency of replacing the rotating body 5 decreases. If the durability of the rotating body 5 is sufficient, the first resin part 20 and the second resin part 21 may be fixed by an adhesive. Furthermore, the method of fixing the first resin part 20 and the second resin part 21 may be a combination of a fitting mechanism and adhesion. When fixing by adhesion, the parts can be replaced by peeling off the adhesive part. Furthermore, the resin part can be replaced while leaving the metal part 22.

[0045] Coins 10 are piled up on the first resin part 20. Since the coins 10 may fall and hit the first resin part 20 from above, sufficient durability is required. Comparing the thicknesses of the first resin part 20 and the second resin part 21 between the adjacent separation holes 6 in the rotation direction of the rotating body 5, the first resin part 20 is made thicker than the second resin part 21. Also, preferably, the first resin part 20 is made thicker than the combined thickness of the second resin part 21 and the metal part 22 in the aforementioned location. By making the first resin part 20 thicker, the durability of the first resin part 20 can be increased. The durability of the rotating body 5 is improved by the metal part 22 and the first resin part 20 that push the coin 10. Such a rotating body 5 can reduce the possibility of fatal damage that requires replacement.

[0046] Next, the second resin part 21 and the metal part 22 will be described with reference to Fig. 6 and Fig. 7. Fig. 6 is a first diagram illustrating the structure of the rotating body. Fig. 7 is a second diagram illustrating the structure of the rotating body. Fig. 6 is a diagram viewed from the metal part 22 side, and Fig. 7 is a diagram viewed from the second resin part 21 side.

[0047] The second resin portion 21 has a push piece hole 30 corresponding to the push piece 25. The push piece hole 30 is a through hole that penetrates the second resin portion 21 from the front to the back. The push piece 25 fits into the push piece hole 30.

[0048] A first through hole 38 having a circular opening is provided in the center of the second resin part 21. A third through hole 40 having a circular opening is provided in the center of the metal part 22. The first through hole 38 and the third through hole 40 have the same opening diameter. The first through hole 38 and the third through hole 40 fit into the central protruding part of the first resin part 20 (FIG. 5). The metal part 22 is provided with five arms on which a push piece 25 is formed. A push piece 25 is provided on each of the five arms. The five push pieces 25 are configured as an integrated part. The metal part 22 and the second resin part 21 are easy to attach and detach.

[0049] Each of the five arms extending radially from the center of the second resin part 21 is provided with a second through hole 39 having a circular opening. Each of the five arms extending radially from the center of the metal part 22 is provided with a fourth through hole 41 having a circular opening. The second through hole 39 and the fourth through hole 41 have the same diameter. The second through hole 39 and the fourth through hole 41 have an opening shaped to correspond to the positioning protrusion 33 (FIG. 5). That is, the second through hole 39 and the fourth through hole 41 have openings of the same shape. The positioning protrusion 33 (FIG. 5) fits into the second through hole 39 and the fourth through hole 41. The positioning protrusion 33 (FIG. 5) positions the pushing piece 25 and the central protrusion 34 at a predetermined position. That is, by fitting the second through hole 39 and the fourth through hole 41 into the positioning protrusion 33, the pushing piece 25 can be positioned adjacent to the central protrusion 34. The positioning protrusions 33 can also be considered as engagement protrusions that engage the second resin portion 21 and the metal portion 22 with the first resin portion 20 .

[0050] The second resin portion 21 and the metal portion 22 overlap each other in a top view. The metal portion 22 is disposed so as not to protrude from the second resin portion 21 except for the portion of the pushing piece 25 in a top view.

[0051] The arm side surface 44 at the tip of the five radially extending portions of the second resin part 21 is arc-shaped corresponding to the recess 31 (FIG. 4). The arm side surface 44 is provided with a locking fitting protrusion 42. The locking fitting protrusion 42 is a linear protrusion provided on the arm side surface 44. The locking fitting protrusion 42 fits into the locking fitting groove 37 (FIG. 4). By fitting the locking fitting protrusion 42 into the locking fitting groove 37 (FIG. 4), the metal part 22 and the second resin part 21 can be fixed to the first resin part 20 (FIG. 4). That is, it can be said that the first resin part 20 (FIG. 4) is provided with a first joint part called the locking fitting groove 37, and the second resin part 21 is provided with a second joint part called the locking fitting protrusion 42. By joining the first joint part and the second joint part, the first resin part 20 and the second resin part 21 are fixed to each other. Moreover, the first resin portion 20 and the second resin portion 21 can be fixed firmly by the adhesive.

[0052] A thick portion 43 is provided at each of the tip portions of the five portions extending radially from the center of the second resin portion 21. The thick portion 43 is disposed at an equal distance from the rotation center of the second resin portion 21. The thick portion 43 improves the strength of the outer periphery of the second resin portion 21, and prevents deformation such as bending or twisting when fixed to the first resin portion 20 (FIG. 4). The thick portion 43 improves the strength so that the locking fitting protrusion 42 does not deform. The thick portion 43 is approximately equal to the thickness of the metal portion 22 and twice as thick as the base portion 36. The locking fitting protrusion 42 is disposed at the center of the thick portion 43 in the thickness direction.

[0053] The central convex portion 34 protruding from the base portion 36 of the second resin portion 21 is provided adjacent to the push piece hole 30. That is, when the second resin portion 21 and the metal portion 22 are fitted together, the push piece 25 and the central convex portion 34 are adjacent to each other. When the push piece 25 pushes the coin, a force is applied to the push piece 25. When a force is applied to the push piece 25, the push piece 25 is prevented from being deformed by the adjacent central convex portion 34. Although the central convex portion 34 is made of resin, the coin does not directly contact the central convex portion 34, so the coin does not scrape the central convex portion 34. When the coin contacts the control pin 13 (FIG. 2) or the moving roller 16 and the push piece 25 pushes the coin, the push piece 25 receives a strong force. If the push piece 25 is made of plastic, the push piece 25 may be damaged. Even if the push piece 25 is made of metal, it may be bent in the opposite direction to the rotation direction. Since the central convex portion 34 is disposed adjacent to the pusher piece 25, the central convex portion 34 can prevent the pusher piece 25 from deforming. In addition, the entire surface of the pusher piece 25 that contacts the central convex portion 34 is in contact with and supported by the central convex portion 34. Since the entire surface is supported, the pusher piece 25 can be prevented from bending due to contact with the coin 10. The width of the central convex portion 34 is approximately the same as that of the pusher piece 25, but the length of the central convex portion 34 is longer than the width of the central convex portion 34, thereby increasing strength in the rotational direction. The central convex portion 34 does not deform even when force is applied from the pusher piece 25.

[0054] Next, the operation of discharging coins from the coin hopper will be described with reference to FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the coin hopper. FIG. 8(a) is a diagram illustrating a first state illustrating the operation of the coin hopper. FIG. 8(b) is a diagram illustrating a second state illustrating the operation of the coin hopper. FIG. 8(c) is a diagram illustrating a third state illustrating the operation of the coin hopper. FIG. 8(d) is a diagram illustrating a fourth state illustrating the operation of the coin hopper. FIG. 8(e) is a diagram illustrating a fifth state illustrating the operation of the coin hopper. FIG. 8(f) is a diagram illustrating a sixth state illustrating the operation of the coin hopper.

[0055] 8(a) to (f) are top views with the container 2 (FIG. 1) and the first resin part 20 (FIG. 3) removed so that the contact state between the coin 10 and the rotating body 5 can be seen. The state changes in the order of FIG. 8(a) to FIG. 8(f). The coin 10 is indicated by a dashed line.

[0056] The rotating body 5 rotates counterclockwise, and moves the coin 10 that has entered the recess of the rotating body 5. The coin 10 is surrounded by the outer wall 17 and the recess of the rotating body 5, and is pushed and transported by the pushing piece 25. The pushing piece 25 passes between the two control pins 13.

[0057] 8(a) shows a state where the coin 10 has moved to a position where it abuts against the control pin 13. The coin 10 is also in contact with the side wall of the second resin portion 21 and the pushing piece 25.

[0058] As the rotor 5 rotates, the coin 10 is pushed in the rotational direction of the rotor 5 by the pusher piece 25. However, the movement of the coin 10 in the rotational direction of the rotor 5 is restricted by the control pin 13. Therefore, the movement direction of the coin 10 changes towards the payout outlet 4. A force that changes the movement direction of the coin 10 is applied to the pusher piece 25.

[0059] Fig. 8(b) shows the state where coin 10 moves in the direction of payout outlet 4 and contacts moving roller 16. Coin 10 is pushed by pushing piece 25 as rotor 5 rotates. Coin 10 moves away from control pin 13 on the center side of rotor 5 and comes into contact with outer control pin 13. The contact position of pushing piece 25 with coin 10 moves in the direction away from the center of rotor 5 as the rotation progresses.

[0060] FIG. 8(c) shows a state in which coin 10 moves in the direction of payout outlet 4 with rotation of rotor 5 and comes into contact with fixed roller 15 and moving roller 16. Pressed by push piece 25, coin 10 moves in the direction of payout outlet 4 and separates from control pin 13. When coin 10 is not in contact with fixed roller 15 and moving roller 16, the gap between fixed roller 15 and moving roller 16 is smaller than the diameter of coin 10. However, as rotation of rotor 5 progresses, coin 10 pushes moving roller 16, and the gap between fixed roller 15 and moving roller 16 increases. Since moving roller 16 can move in the direction away from fixed roller 15, coin 10 can move in the direction of payout outlet 4. A force pushing moving roller 16 is applied to push piece 25.

[0061] 8(d) shows a state in which coin 10 is moving between fixed roller 15 and moving roller 16 in the direction of payout outlet 4. When coin 10 comes into contact with both fixed roller 15 and moving roller 16 and is further pushed by pushing piece 25, moving roller 16 moves in a direction away from fixed roller 15. Coin 10 passes between fixed roller 15 and moving roller 16, and further moves in the direction of payout outlet 4.

[0062] 8(e) shows a state where the gap between the fixed roller 15 and the moving roller 16 is equal to the diameter of the coin 10. The coin 10 continues to move toward the payout outlet 4, and is pushed by the pushing piece 25 until the gap between the fixed roller 15 and the moving roller 16 exceeds the diameter of the coin 10.

[0063] Since the end of the pusher piece 25 on the outer circumferential direction of the rotor 5 comes into contact with the coin 10, the reaction force when the coin 10 is pushed is applied to the end of the pusher piece 25. In other words, a strong force is applied to the pusher piece 25, so if the pusher piece 25 is made of resin, it will be deformed and worn. For example, if the edge of the coin 10 hits the resin part hard, the resin part may be scraped off.

[0064] FIG. 8(f) shows the state where the coin 10 leaves the pushing piece 25 and moves towards the payout outlet 4. The moving roller 16 is biased by a spring in a direction approaching the fixed roller 15. The coin 10 is pushed by the pushing piece 25 until the gap between the fixed roller 15 and the moving roller 16 becomes the diameter of the coin 10. Once this state is exceeded, the coin 10 is pushed by the moving roller 16 and moves towards the payout outlet 4. The moving roller 16 moves towards the fixed roller 15 while pushing the side of the coin 10. The moving roller 16 returns to its initial position.

[0065] Since the moving roller 16 is biased by a spring in a direction approaching the fixed roller 15, the biasing force of the spring causes the moving roller 16 to move toward the fixed roller 15. The coin 10 is pushed by the moving roller 16 toward the payout outlet 4. The discharge sensor 14 also detects that the coin 10 has passed.

[0066] The end of the push piece 25 close to the center of the contact surface with the rotating body 5 is called the first end, and the end farther away is called the second end. When the coin 10 is in contact only with the control pin 13 close to the center of the rotating body 5, the first end of the push piece 25 is in contact. When the coin 10 is in contact only with the control pin 13 far from the center of the rotating body 5, the second end of the push piece 25 is in contact. That is, the surface of the push piece 25 that contacts the coin 10 is arranged in a direction intersecting a line passing through the center of the rotating body 5 in a top view. The contact position between the push piece 25 and the coin 10 moves from the side of the rotation center of the rotating body 5 to the side away from the rotation center as the rotating body 5 rotates. The coin 10 moves in a direction away from the rotation center as the rotating body 5 rotates. Since the control pin 13 is arranged at a predetermined position on the base 7, when the coin 10 is transported to this predetermined position, the moving direction is changed and the coin 10 is discharged.

[0067] When the pushing piece 25 comes into contact with the control pin 13, it changes the direction of movement of the coin 10 from the direction of rotation of the rotor 5 to the direction between the fixed roller 15 and the moving roller 16. Therefore, a force is applied to the coin 10 in a direction intersecting the direction of rotation of the rotor 5. Depending on the direction of the force, the rotation of the rotor 5 may stop, causing a jam. In the worst case, the parts may be damaged.

[0068] In addition, the length of the surface of the pusher piece 25 that contacts the coin 10 is smaller than the distance between the two control pins 13. That is, the pusher piece 25 passes between the two control pins 13 as the rotor 5 rotates. In addition, since the end of the surface of the pusher piece 25 that contacts the coin 10 contacts the coin 10, a strong force is applied to the end. For this reason, it is preferable to use a metal, and in particular a hard metal such as an iron alloy such as stainless steel, a titanium alloy, or an aluminum alloy.

[0069] Next, a coin processing device will be described below. Fig. 9 is a perspective view for explaining an example of the coin processing device.

[0070] The coins 10 stored in the storage container 60 of the coin processing device 50 are of multiple denominations. The coin processing device 50 separates the coins 10 stored in the storage container 60 by denomination and stores them in the coin hopper 1. The coin processing device 50 also ejects the coins 10 from the coin hopper 1 based on an instruction from an external device. Such a coin processing device 50 is installed in a POS system, a currency exchange machine, etc.

[0071] The coin processing device 50 comprises a separation unit 51, a recognition unit 52, and a sorting unit 53. Coins 10 of different denominations are inserted into a storage container 60 in a mixed state. The separation unit 51 passes the coins 10 one by one to the recognition unit 52. The recognition unit 52 uses a sensor (not shown) to detect the characteristics of the coins 10 transported one by one and identifies the denomination. The coins 10 whose denomination has been identified are passed from the recognition unit 52 to the sorting unit 53. The sorting unit 53 stores the coins 10 whose denomination has been identified in the corresponding coin hopper 1.

[0072] In the sorting section 53, the coins 10 are transported by transport pins 54 along rails 58. A sorting flap 55 is arranged along the rails 58. The sorting flap 55 changes the path along which the coins 10 move by a drive section (not shown). Depending on the state of the sorting flap 55, the coins 10 are either dropped onto a slider 56 or pass through without being dropped. When the coins 10 are dropped onto the slider 56, they pass through a guide path 57 and are stored in the container 2 of the coin hopper 1.

[0073] The coins 10 whose denomination has been identified are stored in one of the four coin hoppers 1, or are guided to a reject passage 61 and discharged to a dispensing tray 62. Since four coin hoppers 1 are arranged, four different denominations of coins 10 can be stored, and other denominations are not accepted and are discharged. Coins 10 are discharged onto a discharge belt 59 from a number of coin hoppers 1 arranged in a row. In other words, the discharge belt 59 can also be said to be a coin receiving section that receives coins 10 discharged from a number of coin hoppers 1 arranged in a row. By rotating the discharge belt 59, the coins 10 can be collected in one place.

[0074] The coin 10 discharged from the payout outlet 4 of the coin hopper 1 is placed on the discharge belt 59. The discharge belt 59 is driven by a drive unit (not shown) and transports the coin 10 to a dispensing tray 62.

[0075] Next, a second example of the rotating body will be described with reference to Fig. 10 to Fig. 14. The second rotating body 70 can be applied to the rotating body of the coin hopper described above. Fig. 10 is a perspective view for explaining an example of the second rotating body.

[0076] The second rotating body 70 has a second metal part, which is a metallic rotating body described below, sandwiched between two resin rotating bodies, a third resin part 72 and a fourth resin part 73. The resin rotating body is preferably made of a plastic that is highly durable and easy to process, such as engineering plastic. The metallic rotating body is preferably made of a metal that is highly durable and easy to process, such as an iron alloy, a titanium alloy, or an aluminum alloy.

[0077] The third resin part 72 is provided with stirring protrusions 71 between the separation holes 6 for stirring the coins in the container. The second rotating body 70 is provided with stirring parts 12 at the position that is the center of rotation. The stirring protrusions 71 are protrusions that extend radially from the stirring part 12 that is arranged on the surface of the third resin part. By rotating the second rotating body 70, the stirring parts 12 and the stirring protrusions 71 stir the coins in the container.

[0078] The fourth resin part 73 has a wall part 76 standing along the outer periphery. The wall part 76 has a plurality of locking projections 75. The locking projections 75 are hooked at predetermined positions on the outer periphery side of the third resin part 72, and fix the third resin part 72 and the fourth resin part 73. The fourth resin part 73 has a discharge groove 27 through which the coins discharged from each separation hole 6 pass.

[0079] A reversing piece 26 that comes into contact with the coin when the second rotor 70 is rotated in reverse is provided on the downstream side of the separation hole 6 in the rotation direction of the second rotor 70. The ejection groove 27 enables the coin to move from the inner periphery side of the wall portion 76 to the outer periphery side.

[0080] Next, the structure of the second rotating body 70 will be described. Fig. 11 is a first diagram for explaining the structure of an example of the second rotating body. Fig. 11 also shows a state in which the second metal part 74 is fitted into the fourth resin part 73 of the second rotating body 70. Fig. 12 is a second diagram for explaining the structure of an example of the second rotating body. Fig. 12 is a perspective view for explaining the fourth resin part 73 which is a part of the second rotating body 70.

[0081] A rotating shaft is inserted through the third shaft hole 83 at the rotation center of the second metal part 74. The second metal part 74 has metal plate arms radially in three directions at equal intervals centered on the third shaft hole 83 between adjacent separation holes 6. The tip side of each of the metal plate arms extending in the three directions has a bent part bent at approximately a right angle. The bent parts are a second pusher piece 77 and a third pusher piece 78 that push the coin. The second pusher piece 77 is inserted into a second pusher piece hole 79 that penetrates the front and back of the fourth resin part 73, and its tip protrudes from the back side of the fourth resin part 73. The third pusher piece 78 is inserted into a third pusher piece hole 80 that penetrates the front and back of the fourth resin part 73, and its tip protrudes from the back side of the fourth resin part 73.

[0082] A peripheral through hole 82 is provided along the base of the wall portion 76 of the fourth resin part 73. The peripheral through hole 82 is a through hole that penetrates from the front to the back of the fourth resin part 73. The peripheral through hole 82 is provided at a position corresponding to the locking protrusion 75. When the third resin part 72 is hooked onto the locking protrusion 75, this makes the wall portion 76 more flexible and prevents damage.

[0083] Two locking projections 75 are disposed between adjacent separation holes 6. A third pushing piece 78 is disposed between adjacent locking projections 75. The center of rotation of the second metal portion 74 of the second rotating body 70 is fixed to a rotating shaft.

[0084] A fifth through hole 84 is provided on the upstream side of the second pushing piece 77 of the second metal part 74 in the rotation direction. The fifth through hole 84 is provided in each arm of the second metal part 74. The fifth through hole 84 is a through hole that penetrates the front and back of the second metal part 74. A protrusion described later fits into the fifth through hole 84, and the protrusion prevents rattling of the second metal part 74 in the rotation direction. The fourth resin part 73 is provided with a second positioning protrusion 81, which fits into a sixth through hole 85 of the second metal part 74. The second positioning protrusion 81 indicates a fixed position of the second metal part 74 relative to the fourth resin part 73.

[0085] The fourth resin part 73 is provided with a seventh through hole 102 at a position corresponding to the fifth through hole 84. The seventh through hole 102 is a through hole that penetrates the front and back of the fourth resin part 73. A protrusion, which will be described later, fits into the fifth through hole 84 and the seventh through hole 102, and the protrusion prevents rattling of the second metal part 74 and the fourth resin part 73 in the rotational direction.

[0086] The fourth resin part 73 is provided with a second shaft hole 87. The second shaft hole 87 is provided with a rotation stop hole 88. A rotation shaft is inserted into the second shaft hole 87, and a rotation stop lever fixed perpendicular to the rotation shaft is fitted into the rotation stop hole 88. The rotation shaft and the fourth resin part 73 are fixed so that the rotation of the fourth resin part 73 is linked to the rotation of the rotation shaft. The cross section of the rotation shaft may be made noncircular and the rotation stop hole 88 may be made a corresponding shape, so that the rotation of the rotation shaft is similarly transmitted to the fourth resin part 73.

[0087] Next, a description will be given of the third resin portion 72. Fig. 13 is a third diagram illustrating the structure of an example of the second rotating body.

[0088] The third resin portion 72 has an agitating portion 12 on its front side. The third resin portion 72 has a second recess 89 on its back side for accommodating the second metal portion 74. The second recess 89 is formed along the outer shape of the second metal portion 74.

[0089] The third resin portion 72 has a fourth shaft hole 93 as a rotation center. A rotation shaft is inserted into the fourth shaft hole 93.

[0090] The second recess 89 is provided with three third positioning projections 90. The third positioning projections 90 are arranged at positions corresponding to the fifth through hole 84 of the second metal part 74 and the seventh through hole 102 of the fourth resin part 73, and fit into the respective holes. The third positioning projections 90 fit into the fifth through hole 84 and the seventh through hole 102, and the third positioning projections 90 prevent rattling in the rotation direction between the third resin part 72, the fourth resin part 73, and the second metal part 74. The second rotating body 70 rotates as a unit of three members. The cross section of the third positioning projections 90 is circular, but is not limited to this shape and may be polygonal or elliptical, but a shape that is easy to process is preferable.

[0091] A locking recess 92 is provided on a peripheral surface 91, which is a side surface of the third resin part 72. The locking recess 92 is disposed at a position corresponding to the locking protrusion 75. The locking protrusion 75 and the locking recess 92 engage with each other to fix the third resin part 72 and the fourth resin part 73. The second metal part 74 is sandwiched and fixed between the third resin part 72 and the fourth resin part 73. The second rotating body 70 can be easily assembled and disassembled. The locking recess 92 is an abutment part that abuts against the locking protrusion 75, and the locking protrusion 75 can also be said to be an abutment part that abuts against the locking recess 92.

[0092] Next, the back side of the second rotating body 70 will be described. Fig. 14 is a perspective view of the back side explaining an example of the second rotating body. The second rotating body 70 has a second metal part 74 sandwiched between a third resin part 72 and a fourth resin part 73, and the third resin part 72 and the fourth resin part 73 are fitted together and fixed.

[0093] A fourth resin part 73 is disposed on the back surface side of the second rotating body 70. A groove is provided on the back surface side of the fourth resin part 73 to avoid the control pin when the second rotating body 70 rotates. A first escape groove 100 and a second escape groove 101 of the fourth resin part 73 are grooves through which the control pin passes without coming into contact. In order to form these grooves, the fourth resin part 73 is provided with a second central convex part 97, a second inner peripheral convex part 98, and a second outer peripheral convex part 99.

[0094] The second inner peripheral convex portion 98 is disposed between the first escape groove 100 and the second escape groove 101. The second inner peripheral convex portion 98 is disposed upstream of the second pushing piece 77 in the rotation direction of the second rotor 70. The second inner peripheral convex portion 98 is adjacent to the second pushing piece 77 and resists the force exerted when the second pushing piece 77 contacts the coin, preventing the second pushing piece 77 from being deformed.

[0095] A seventh through hole 102 is arranged in the second inner peripheral convex portion 98. The seventh through hole 102 is arranged on the upstream side of the second pushing piece 77 in the rotation direction of the second rotating body 70, and the third positioning protrusion 90 fits into the seventh through hole 102. When the coin is pushed by the second pushing piece 77, the most force is applied to the upstream side of the second pushing piece 77 in the rotation direction of the second rotating body 70. Therefore, the third positioning protrusion 90 is provided on the upstream side of the second pushing piece 77 in the rotation direction of the second rotating body 70. The third positioning protrusion 90 firmly connects the third resin part 72, the fourth resin part 73, and the second metal part 74 so that they do not shift from one another.

[0096] A second pushing piece hole 79 is provided adjacent to the second inner peripheral convex portion 98 on the downstream side of the second inner peripheral convex portion 98 in the rotation direction of the second rotating body 70. A first buffer portion 94 is provided on the side of the second pushing piece hole 79 of the second inner peripheral convex portion 98 toward the rotation center of the second rotating body 70. A third pushing piece hole 80 is provided adjacent to the second outer peripheral convex portion 99 on the downstream side of the second outer peripheral convex portion 99 in the rotation direction of the second rotating body 70. A second buffer portion 95 and a third buffer portion 96 are provided on the side of the third pushing piece hole 80 of the second outer peripheral convex portion 99 toward the rotation center of the second rotating body 70 and on the outer periphery side.

[0097] The first buffer section 94 prevents the coin from contacting the edge of the second pusher piece 77. The coin may be damaged by contacting the edge of the second pusher piece 77. The first buffer section 94 covers the edge of the side where the coin first contacts the second pusher piece 77 when the second rotating body 70 rotates. This is because this part is likely to damage the coin. In this example, one edge of the second pusher piece 77 is covered, but both sides may be covered. The second buffer section 95 and the third buffer section 96 cover both edges of the third pusher piece 78 to prevent the edge from contacting the coin. The first buffer section 94, the second buffer section 95, and the third buffer section 96 do not push the coin with a strong force, so they can be made of resin.

[0098] The second shaft hole 87 is open wider than the third shaft hole 83. Therefore, the periphery of the third shaft hole 83 of the second metal part 74 is exposed from the second shaft hole 87. The second metal part 74 is fixed by abutting against the rotating shaft. By abutting and fixing a predetermined position of the rotating shaft and the periphery of the third shaft hole 83, the distance between the second metal part 74 and the base can be made constant. The predetermined positions are abutted against each other and fixed. Although an example in which a protrusion is arranged in the third resin part 72 and a through hole is arranged in the fourth resin part 73 has been shown, a configuration in which a through hole is arranged in the third resin part 72 and a protrusion is arranged in the fourth resin part 73 may also be used.

[0099] Next, a third example of the rotating body will be described with reference to Figs. 15 to 18. The third rotating body 110 can be applied to the rotating body of the coin hopper described above. First, the external shape of the third rotating body 110 will be described with reference to Figs. 15 and 18. Fig. 15 is a top view illustrating an example of the third rotating body. Fig. 15 is a view of the third rotating body 110 as viewed from directly above. Fig. 18 is a perspective view of the back side illustrating an example of the third rotating body.

[0100] The third rotor 110 has three separation holes 6 arranged therein. On the upper surface of the third rotor 110, stirring protrusions 71 extend radially from the stirring portion 12.

[0101] The third rotating body 110 includes a fifth resin part 111 on the upper surface side, a sixth resin part 112 on the back surface side, and a third metal part 113, which will be described later, sandwiched between them. The fifth resin part 111 is provided with a second locking recess 115, which engages with a second locking protrusion 114 provided on the sixth resin part 112, thereby fixing the fifth resin part 111 and the sixth resin part 112. The third rotating body 110 is easy to assemble and can also be disassembled.

[0102] The second locking recesses 115 are disposed on the outer circumferential side of the fifth resin portion 111 and are provided between adjacent separation holes 6 so as to sandwich the stirring protrusions 71 therebetween.

[0103] A fourth pushing piece 116 and a fifth pushing piece 117 protrude from predetermined positions of the sixth resin part 112 to the back side and push the coin.

[0104] The fifth resin part 111 is provided with a fourth positioning projection 119, which fits into a through hole provided in the third metal part 113 and the sixth resin part 112 described later. At least one fourth positioning projection 119 is arranged on the upstream side of each fourth pushing piece 116 in the rotation direction of the third rotating body 110 and between the separation hole 6. The fourth positioning projection 119 fits into the through hole, and the fifth resin part 111, the sixth resin part 112, and the third metal part 113 described later are prevented from rattling each other in the rotation direction by the fourth positioning projection 119. In addition, the base of the fourth pushing piece 116 is supported by the sixth resin part 112 on the upstream side in the rotation direction of the third rotating body 110. The fourth pushing piece 116 is subjected to force when pushing the coin, but is prevented from bending.

[0105] A rotating shaft is inserted into the sixth shaft hole 122 of the sixth resin part 112, and the sixth resin part 112 is fixed to the rotating shaft.

[0106] A fourth positioning protrusion 119 is disposed at a position corresponding to the fourth pushing piece 116, and another fourth positioning protrusion 119 is provided between the center of rotation. The fifth resin part 111, the sixth resin part 112, and a third metal part 113 (described later) are prevented from rattling with each other by the fourth positioning protrusion 119. The third rotating body 110 rotates as a unit of three members.

[0107] Next, the inside of the third rotating body 110 will be described. Fig. 16 is a first diagram illustrating the structure of an example of the third rotating body. It is a perspective view of a state in which the fifth resin part 111 and the third metal part 113 are fixed.

[0108] The back surface side of fifth resin portion 111 is provided with a recess for accommodating third metal portion 113, and third metal portion 113 is accommodated in the recess. Fourth positioning protrusion 119 is provided in the recess. Second locking recess 115 is also provided in the recess.

[0109] The third metal part 113 has a fifth shaft hole 118 at its center of rotation. A rotating shaft is inserted into and fixed in the fifth shaft hole 118. The third metal part 113 has arms extending radially from the fifth shaft hole 118 in three equiangular directions. The third metal part 113 has a through hole into which a fourth positioning protrusion 119 is fitted. The third metal part 113 has a fourth pushing piece 116 and a fifth pushing piece 117 on its tip side.

[0110] Next, the inside of the third rotating body 110 will be described from another angle. Fig. 17 is a second diagram illustrating the structure of an example of the third rotating body. It is a perspective view of the state in which the sixth resin part 112 and the third metal part 113 are fixed.

[0111] The sixth resin part 112 is provided with a fourth push piece hole 120 through which the fourth push piece 116 of the third metal part 113 is inserted. The fourth push piece 116 is inserted into the fourth push piece hole 120 and protrudes to the back surface side of the sixth resin part 112. The fifth push piece 117 is disposed along the outer periphery of the sixth resin part 112 and protrudes to the back surface side of the sixth resin part 112.

[0112] The sixth resin part 112 is provided with a second locking projection 114. The second locking projection 114 is a snap fit and is hooked into a second locking recess 115 to fix the fifth resin part 111 and the sixth resin part 112. The second locking projection 114 and the second locking recess 115 have abutting portions that abut against each other. In addition, the third metal part 113 has an eighth through hole 121 arranged at a position corresponding to the fourth positioning projection 119.

[0113] Next, a fourth example of the rotating body will be described with reference to Figs. 19 and 20. The fourth rotating body 140 can be applied to the rotating body of the coin hopper described above. The fourth rotating body 140 is an example in which the pushing piece is not integral but is divided and arranged for each separation hole. Fig. 19 is a first diagram for explaining the structure of an example of the fourth rotating body. Fig. 19 shows an example of divided pushing pieces. Fig. 20 is a second diagram for explaining the structure of an example of the fourth rotating body. Fig. 20 shows an example of a rotating body that fixes divided pushing pieces.

[0114] The fourth metal part 130 is a cut-out portion including the fourth push piece 116, the fifth push piece 117, and the eighth through hole 121 of the third metal part 113 described in Fig. 16 and Fig. 17. The fourth metal part 130 is formed by bending a metal plate to form the fourth push piece 116 and the fifth push piece 117, and by drilling a hole in the metal plate to form the eighth through hole 121. By using multiple push pieces to make the part smaller, it is possible to save material. However, the manufacturing process becomes complicated since multiple parts are assembled.

[0115] The fourth rotating body 140 has the fourth metal part 130 sandwiched between a seventh resin part 141 and an eighth resin part 142. The fourth pushing piece 116 and the fifth pushing piece protrude from the rear surface side of the fourth rotating body 140.

[0116] The fourth rotating body 140 has a hole at its rotation center similar to the sixth shaft hole 122 described in Figures 16 and 17. The fourth rotating body 140 is fixed to a rotating shaft by inserting the rotating shaft through the sixth shaft hole 122.

[0117] 16 and 17, a protrusion similar to the fourth positioning protrusion 119 is provided in a recess for accommodating the fourth metal part 130 of the seventh resin part 141. When the fourth metal part 130 is accommodated in the recess, the fourth positioning protrusion 119 fits into the eighth through hole 121. The fourth positioning protrusion 119 prevents the fourth metal part 130 from rattling in the rotational direction of the fourth rotating body 140.

[0118] The eighth resin part 142 is provided with locking projections and locking recesses in four locations similar to the second locking projections 114 and the second locking recesses 115 described in Figures 16 and 17. The seventh resin part 141 is provided with locking recesses at positions corresponding to the second locking projections 114. The second locking projections 114 are engaged with the locking recesses, whereby the seventh resin part 141 and the eighth resin part 142 are fixed together with the fourth metal part 130 sandwiched therebetween. [Industrial Applicability]

[0119] INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention can be used in a coin hopper that discharges coins one by one, and in a coin processing device equipped with a coin hopper. [Explanation of symbols]

[0120] 1 Coin Hopper 2 containers 3. Main unit 4. Payment outlet 5 Rotating Body 6 separation hole 7. Bass 8 Guide section 9 Identification hole 10 Coins 11 Motor 12 Mixing section 13 Control Pins 14 Emission sensor 15 Fixed roller 16 Moving roller 17 Exterior Wall 18 Mixing blade 20 First resin part 21 Second resin part 22 Metal Parts 23 Shaft hole 24 Shaft locking groove 25 Push piece 26 Reverse Piece 27 Discharge groove 28 First step 29 Second step 30 Push-button hole 31 Recess 32 Outer periphery protrusion 33 Positioning protrusion 34 Central convex part 35 Inner circumferential convex part 36 Base 37 Locking fitting groove 38 First Through Hole 39 Second Through Hole 40 Third Through Hole 41 4th Through Hole 42 Locking fitting protrusion 43 Thick part 44 Arm side 50 Coin Processing Device 51 Separation part 52 Identification section 53 Sorting section 54 Carrying pin 55 Diversion flap 56 Slider 57 Guideway 58 Rail 59 Discharge belt 60 Storage Container 61 Reject Passage 62 Dispensing Tray 75 Locking protrusion 76 Wall 77 2nd push piece 78 3rd push piece 91 Peripheral surface 92 Locking recess 94 1st buffer section 95 Second buffer section 96 Third buffer section

Claims

1. A container for storing coins; a base for supporting the coin; a rotating body having a plurality of separation holes for holding the coins one by one, the rotating body being fixed to a rotating shaft and being disposed opposite the base; In a coin hopper, the rotating body is rotated to push the coin that has entered the separation hole, move the coin in the outer circumferential direction of the rotating body, and discharge the coin. the rotating body includes a first resin rotating body made of resin, a second resin rotating body made of resin, and a metal rotating body having arms extending radially from a center toward an outer periphery in correspondence with the separation holes, The first resin rotating body has a first contact portion, and the second resin rotating body has a second contact portion, The coin hopper is characterized in that the rotating body is fixed in a state in which the metal rotating body is disposed between the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body by engaging the first abutment portion and the second abutment portion.

2. The arm has a pushing piece formed by bending an edge of the arm, 2. The coin hopper according to claim 1, wherein the rotating body pushes the coin that has entered the separation hole by means of the pushing piece.

3. 3. The coin hopper according to claim 2, wherein a plurality of said pushing pieces are disposed separately for each of said separation holes.

4. The coin hopper according to claim 1 ; a coin receiving section for receiving and collecting the coins discharged from the coin hopper, The coin processing device is characterized in that a plurality of the coin hoppers are arranged, and the coin receiving section receives the coins discharged from each of the coin hoppers.

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