Coin processing apparatus

Abstract

To provide a coin processor capable of preventing a member constituting a conveyance mechanism from interfering with a moving coin and suitably conveying the coin in the coin processor provided with the conveyance mechanism for pushing and moving the coin supported on an inclined conveyance surface by a pushing body.SOLUTION: The coin 10 whose denomination has been identified is transferred from the identifying section to the first curved transport path 70 of the transport path 51 in the next step. A conveyance pin roller 23 for pushing and moving a coin projects from between a first curved conveyance path 70 and a rail 25 arranged separately from each other, and moves. A flange part 45 is arranged in the driving pulley 73 so that the coin 10 does not enter the passage of the carrying pin roller 23 at the time of delivery. A projection part 46 is arranged on the surface of a first curved conveyance path 70 so that a collar part 45 and a coin 10 do not interfere with each other in a delivery area, and the collar part 45 is moved away from the coin 10 supported by the projection part 46 and a rail 25.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a coin processing device that stores coins in containers according to their denominations and dispenses the coins stored in the containers one by one. [Background technology]

[0002] Generally, circulating currency issued by a country includes coins of multiple denominations. Each denomination of coins has different diameters, thicknesses, materials, and designs, so anyone can easily identify the denomination. Since each denomination has different characteristics, it is also possible to identify the denomination mechanically. It is also possible to store identified coins in containers by denomination. A coin processing device identifies the denomination of coins, stores them by denomination, and dispenses stored coins as needed.

[0003] For example, the coin processing device disclosed in JP 2022-166367 A is known as a device that dispenses multiple coins inserted into a storage container one by one and identifies their denominations. This type of coin processing device has three steps: first, a step of dispensing multiple coins one by one, then a step of identifying the denominations of the coins being conveyed one by one, and finally a step of storing the identified coins by denomination.

[0004] In the process of identifying the denomination, the denomination of each coin transported is identified. In the process of sorting and storing the identified coins by denomination, transport pins that push the coins are provided on the belt. The coins whose denominations have been identified in the process of identifying the denomination are passed between the transport pins. The transport pins push the coins, and the coins move along a guide. Coin sorting units are arranged for each denomination along the coin transport path. The coin sorting units guide the transported coins to coin hoppers predetermined for each denomination. As a result, coins of the same denomination are stored in the coin hoppers arranged for each denomination.

[0005] A coin hopper stores coins of the same denomination, and by controlling the coin hopper, it is possible to dispense a desired number of coins from the coin hopper. An example of a coin processing device is an automatic change dispenser. An automatic change dispenser stores inserted coins by denomination. The automatic change dispenser also calculates the denomination and number of coins to dispense based on the amount of change. Based on the calculated denomination and number, the automatic change dispenser controls the coin hopper corresponding to each denomination to dispense the coins. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-166367 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] Each country uses a variety of coin denominations. For example, six denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500 yen coins are widely used in Japan. Europe uses eight denominations: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, and 1 and 2 euros. The United States uses six denominations: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 cents, and 1 dollar. Many countries issue and circulate multiple coin denominations. Coins come in a variety of shapes and weights. Because coins of different weights and sizes are handled, the coin transport system is designed with various dimensions to accommodate a variety of coins, taking into account their shape and weight. This results in various variations in the behavior of coins during transport.

[0008] When the coins are transferred from the process of identifying the denomination of the coins being transported one by one to the process of sorting and storing the identified coins by denomination, they may gain momentum and cause unexpected movement between the transport pins.

[0009] For example, if a coin moves at the same speed as the transport pins, it will be transported without being pushed by the transport pins. Also, depending on the coin transfer position, it may be transported by a driving member other than the transport pins, such as the flange of a drive pulley. Also, coins may bounce and vibrate on the transport path while being transported. If a coin moves unexpectedly during coin transfer, there is a risk of coin transport problems, such as incorrect storage in the next process where identified coins are sorted and stored by denomination.

[0010] The present invention provides a coin processing device that efficiently transports coins, and in particular, a coin processing device that efficiently transports coins after they have been transferred from a recognition unit to a sorting unit. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] The coin processing device of the present invention comprises an identification unit that identifies the denomination of each separated coin, a conveyance path that slidably supports the coins handed over from the identification unit, and a conveyance belt that is looped around at least a first pulley and a second pulley and rotates, and has a plurality of pushers that contact the circumferential surface of the coin supported on the conveyance path and push the coin, the conveyance path having a first support part and a second support part that support the coin, the first support part having a surface inclined with respect to the horizontal direction, The coin to be delivered slides on the inclined surface, the second support portion is spaced apart from the lower edge of the first support portion and is disposed along the lower edge to support the circumferential surface of the coin, the conveyor belt is curved to correspond to the outer periphery of the first pulley, the first support portion has a first curved portion curved along the conveyor belt, the second support portion has a second curved portion curved along the conveyor belt, and the first pulley has a flange portion that protrudes in a direction away from the rotation axis beyond the teeth that mesh with the conveyor belt. the flange portion moves between the first curved portion and the second curved portion as the first pulley rotates, preventing the coin from entering between the first curved portion and the second curved portion; the pushing bodies are arranged at equal intervals on the conveyor belt so as to be positioned between adjacent flange portions when the first pulley is rotated; the coin is handed over from the identification unit to the first curved portion and the second curved portion; the coin supported by the first support portion and the second support portion is pushed by the pushing body moving between the first support portion and the second support portion; in this coin processing device, the coin has a flap that is arranged on the conveying path and changes its posture based on the denomination of the coin identified by the identification unit to switch the moving direction of the coin; the second support portion has a step portion that protrudes from the surface of the conveying path in an area where the coin does not come into contact with the flange portion, and in a section up to the coin reaching the flap, and the step portion stops the coin rolling in the conveying direction without being pushed by the pushing body. Another aspect of the coin processing device includes an identification unit that identifies the denomination of coins separated one by one, a transport path that slidably supports the coins handed over from the identification unit, and a transport belt that is looped around at least a first pulley and a second pulley and rotates, and that has a plurality of pushers that come into contact with the circumferential surface of the coin supported on the transport path and push the coin, the transport path having a first support part and a second support part that support the coin, the first support part has a surface that is inclined with respect to the horizontal direction, and the coin handed over from the identification unit slides on the inclined surface, the second support part is spaced from a lower edge of the first support part and is disposed along the lower edge, and supports the circumferential surface of the coin, the transport belt is curved corresponding to the outer periphery of the first pulley, the first support part has a first curved part that is curved along the transport belt, and the second support part is connected to the transport belt. a second curved portion curved along the conveyor belt, the first pulley having a flange that protrudes in a direction away from the rotation axis beyond the teeth that mesh with the conveyor belt, the flange moving between the first curved portion and the second curved portion as the first pulley rotates and preventing the coin from entering between the first curved portion and the second curved portion, the pushing bodies being arranged at equal intervals on the conveyor belt so as to be positioned between adjacent flanges when the first pulley is rotated, the coin is handed over from the identification unit to the first curved portion and the second curved portion, and the coin supported by the first support portion and the second support portion is pushed by the pushing body moving between the first support portion and the second support portion, the first curved portion having a protrusion that protrudes from the surface, and the protrusion and the second curved portion support the coin without contacting the flange. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a coin processing device that can appropriately transport coins, and also to provide a coin processing device that can appropriately transport coins after they have been delivered from the recognition unit to the sorting unit. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the appearance of the coin processing device. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the coin processing device. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the main part of the coin processing device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a top view of the main part of the coin processing device. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a top view of the coin hopper with the coin storage container removed. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an exploded view illustrating the sorting unit of the coin processing device. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a sorting unit of the coin processing device. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a coin transfer area of ​​the sorting unit. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the state of coins in the coin transfer area of ​​the sorting unit. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a second example of the coin transfer area of ​​the sorting unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Each drawing is merely a schematic illustration to allow a sufficient understanding of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated examples. Furthermore, in each drawing, common or similar components are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations thereof will be omitted.

[0015] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the exterior of a coin processing device. The coin processing device 1 is covered by a roughly rectangular parallelepiped exterior case. The coin processing device 1 is equipped with an insertion slot 2 for inserting coins and a tray 3 for receiving coins to be dispensed.

[0016] The opening of the slot 2 for inserting coins is located on the front side of the top surface of the exterior case. A tray 3 for receiving coins to be dispensed is located on the front surface of the exterior case. A withdrawal port 4, which penetrates the inside and outside of the coin processing device 1, is provided on the front surface of the exterior case in a position corresponding to the tray 3. The tray 3 receives coins dispensed through the withdrawal port 4. A display device 5 is located next to the slot 2 on the front side of the top surface of the exterior case. The display device 5 displays the status of the coin processing device 1, the amount deposited, the amount dispensed, instructions, etc. The device that separates, identifies, stores, and dispenses inserted coins is covered by the exterior case.

[0017] For example, the coin processing device 1 is a device for depositing and dispensing coins, such as an automatic change machine or an automatic currency exchange machine. Coins are inserted into the insertion slot 2. A control unit (not shown) acquires the denomination and number of coins inserted and determines the amount inserted. A control unit (not shown) calculates whether or not coins should be paid out. If coins are to be paid out, the control unit (not shown) calculates the denomination and number of coins to be paid out and controls the coin hopper to dispense the coins. The dispensed coins are sent to a tray 3.

[0018] Next, the configuration of the coin processing device 1 will be explained using a schematic diagram. Figure 2 is a diagram explaining the configuration of the coin processing device. Coins in general use are made up of multiple denominations. Elements such as size, material, and design of coins differ depending on the denomination.

[0019] Coins of multiple denominations are inserted into the insertion slot 2 of the coin processing device 1 in a mixed state. The coin processing device 1 separates the inserted coins into individual coins and identifies the denominations of the separated coins. The coin processing device 1 stores the identified coins by denomination. The coin processing device 1 also reuses the coins stored by denomination for dispensing.

[0020] The coin processing device 1 is divided into three parts: a separation unit 6 that separates inserted coins one by one and sends them out, a recognition unit 8 that identifies the coin denominations, and a sorting unit 9 that separates coins by denomination and stores them.

[0021] Coins 10 inserted into the slot 2 pass through a coin passage 11 and are stored in a storage container 12. In Figure 2, the slot 2, coin passage 11, and storage container 12 are indicated by dashed lines. Coins 10 inserted into the slot 2 are temporarily stored in the storage container 12 until they are separated and transported one by one.

[0022] A disk 15 is rotatably arranged on a holding base 13 of the base of the coin processing device 1. A storage container 12 is arranged below the disk 15. The storage container 12 has a bottom shaped to follow the outer periphery of the disk 15. The storage container 12 covers approximately the lower half to one-third of the disk 15. The holding base 13 and disk 15 are also arranged at an angle to the horizontal. The coin 10 leans against the disk 15. By rotating the disk 15, the coin 10 leaning against the disk 15 enters a recess 16, which will be described later, and is transported.

[0023] The disk 15 has three recesses 16 in which coins 10 are stored. The coins 10 are held in these recesses 16. The areas of the recesses 16 on the outer periphery of the disk 15 are open. The coins 10 are delivered from the separation unit 6 to the recognition unit 8 in the delivery unit 7.

[0024] The side of the coin 10 that has entered the recess 16 abuts against the inner wall of the recess 16. The holding base 13 and the disk 15 are arranged so as to assume an oblique posture relative to the horizontal, so that the coin 10 can be held within the recess 16 of the disk 15. The inclination angle of the holding base 13 is preferably approximately 30 to 80 degrees. Of these, 40 to 50 degrees is more preferable. If the inclination angle is small, unwanted coins 10 will not be able to slide out of the recess 16, and if the inclination angle is large, it will be difficult for coins to enter the recess 16. In addition, the height of the inner wall of the recess 16 is configured to be lower than the thickness of the coin 10, so that only one coin 10 can be placed inside.

[0025] The coin 10 is held in a position where the front or back of the coin 10 faces the flat bottom surface of the recess 16. The inner wall of the recess 16 is not located on the outer periphery of the disk 15. The coin 10 passes through this area without an inner wall and is delivered to the next process. A guide wall is located on the outside of the outer periphery of the disk 15 to guide the coin 10 in the direction of disk rotation. The coin 10 is transported with its peripheral surface in contact with the guide wall and the inner wall of the recess 16.

[0026] The disk 15 rotates in the disk rotation direction 17 indicated by the arrow. The disk 15 picks up the coins 10 stored in the storage container 12 one by one in the recesses 16. Because the disk 15 is disposed at an angle to the horizontal, the coins 10 in the storage container 12 lean against the disk 15, making it easier for them to enter the recesses 16.

[0027] The coins 10 are delivered at a position above the separating unit 6 and below the recognition unit 8. In FIG. 2, an example is shown in which the recognition unit 8 and the separating unit 6 are arranged vertically, but the recognition unit 8 and the separating unit 6 can also be arranged horizontally as shown in FIG. 3, which will be described later. The disk 15 transports the coins 10 one by one to the delivery unit 7, and can send them to the recognition unit 8, which is the next process.

[0028] In the recognition unit 8, a wheel 21 is disposed on the holding base 13 of the base of the coin processing device 1. The wheel 21 rotates in a wheel rotation direction 22 indicated by an arrow. The wheel 21 rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the disk 15. The wheel 21 pushes the circumferential surface of the coin 10 sent out from the separation unit 6. The coin 10 moves on the holding base 13 by the wheel 21. The holding base 13 is a flat surface. In the recognition unit 8, an identification sensor 19 is disposed that detects the characteristics of the coin 10, such as its size and material. The identification sensor 19 detects the characteristics of the coin 10 moving on the holding base 13. A control unit (not shown) identifies the denomination of the coin 10 based on the detection result of the identification sensor 19. Because the wheel 21 separates each coin 10, the identification sensor 19 can effectively detect the characteristics of the coin 10. The coin 10 is pushed by the wheel 21 with its front or back side in contact with the aforementioned holding base 13 and its circumferential surface in contact with the guide section 18. The coin 10 moves along the guide section 18. After the denomination of the coin 10 is identified by the identification section 8, it is delivered to the sorting section 9 for the next process.

[0029] In the sorting unit 9, rails 25 are arranged to guide coins 10. Coins 10 are handed over from the recognition unit 8 to the rails 25 of the sorting unit 9. The coins 10 are transported along these rails 25. A conveyor belt 24 is arranged along the rails 25. Conveyor pin rollers 23 are arranged at equal intervals on the conveyor belt 24. One coin 10 is placed between adjacent conveyor pin rollers 23. The coins 10 are pushed one by one by the conveyor pin rollers 23 and transported along the rails 25. The conveyor pin rollers 23 can also be considered pushing bodies that push and transport the coins 10. The conveyor belt 24 is an endless belt, and rotates in the conveyor belt rotation direction 26 indicated by the arrow in conjunction with the disk 15 and wheel 21.

[0030] A first slider 27, a second slider 29, a third slider 31, a fourth slider 33, a fifth slider 35, a sixth slider 37, and a seventh slider 39 are arranged along the rail 25. These sliders are connected to coin hoppers of predetermined denominations. A coin 10 identified by the recognition unit 8 is dropped onto the slider of the corresponding denomination and stored in the coin hopper of the corresponding denomination.

[0031] The first slider 27 is connected to a first coin hopper 28. The second slider 29 is connected to a second coin hopper 30. The third slider 31 is connected to a third coin hopper 32. The fourth slider 33 is connected to a fourth coin hopper 34. The fifth slider 35 is connected to a fifth coin hopper 36. The sixth slider 37 is connected to a sixth coin hopper 38. The seventh slider 39 is connected to an overflow container 40.

[0032] The eighth slider 41 guides the coins 10 to the discharge belt 42. Coins 10 whose denominations cannot be identified or that cannot be used are guided onto the discharge belt 42 and discharged into the tray 3.

[0033] If the number of coins 10 stored in a coin hopper exceeds a predetermined amount, malfunctions may occur. Therefore, when the number of coins 10 stored in a coin hopper exceeds a predetermined amount, the coin hopper stops storing coins 10. That is, a control unit (not shown) compares the number of coins 10 stored in the coin hopper with a predetermined allowable number of coins to be stored, and controls whether to continue or stop storing coins 10 in the coin hopper based on the comparison result. When the storage of coins 10 in the coin hopper is stopped, coins 10 that are not stored are stored in the overflow container 40. After that, if coins 10 are paid out from the full coin hopper, coins 10 can be stored in the coin hopper again. By configuring the overflow container 40 to store surplus coins 10, the frequency of maintenance can be reduced. Therefore, the coin processing device 1 can be operated efficiently. The overflow container 40 may be a coin hopper or a storage container without a coin discharge function.

[0034] Each coin hopper is arranged along a discharge belt 42. In the sorting unit 9, by driving the discharge belt 42, the coins 10 discharged from each coin hopper can be transported to the tray 3. The coins 10 inserted into the slot 2 can be reused as coins 10 to be paid out.

[0035] The disc 15 rotates around the disc rotation axis 14. The wheel 21 rotates around the wheel rotation axis 20. The disc rotation axis 14 and the wheel rotation axis 20 are rotated by a motor (not shown). The motor and the disc rotation axis 14 are connected by a gear train (not shown). The motor and the wheel rotation axis 20 are connected by a gear train (not shown). The motor and the gear train constitute a drive unit that rotates the disc 15 and the wheel 21.

[0036] The coin 10 slides from the separating unit 6 through the delivery unit 7 to the recognition unit 8, so that each unit is arranged without any steps and has a flat surface.

[0037] The disk 15 is provided with a plurality of recesses 16 at equiangular positions around the disk rotation axis 14. For example, three recesses 16 are provided at 120-degree intervals.

[0038] A lever, which will be described later, is disposed in each recess 16. When a coin 10 is delivered to the delivery unit 7, this lever moves the coin 10 toward the outer periphery of the disk 15, i.e., toward the recognition unit 8, and the coin 10 can be delivered to the recognition unit 8.

[0039] The coin 10 is pushed out from the disc 15 of the separating unit 6 and picked up by the wheel 21 of the identifying unit 8. The holding base 13 is flat, so that the coin can be handed over smoothly.

[0040] The wheel 21 has receivers arranged radially at intervals of 120 degrees around the wheel rotation axis 20. One coin 10 is placed between each receiver. The coin 10 is pushed by the push wall on the side of the receiver. The coin 10 pushed by the wheel 21 slides on the holding base 13. The wheel 21 rotates in conjunction with the disk 15, and the rotation direction is opposite to that of the disk 15.

[0041] The guide section 18 is arranged in a straight line. The coin 10 moves in a straight line along the guide section 18. In the recognition section 8, the recognition sensor 19 detects the coin 10 moving in a straight line along the guide section 18 and recognizes the denomination.

[0042] The coin 10 is pushed by the wheel 21 and passed from the recognition unit 8 to the sorting unit 9. The wheel 21 and the conveyor belt 24 rotate in conjunction with each other. The conveyor pin rollers 23 are arranged so that one coin 10 falls between adjacent conveyor pin rollers 23.

[0043] The coins 10 are pushed by the transport pin rollers 23 and move along the rails 25. The coins 10 are dropped onto the slider of the corresponding denomination. Coins 10 of the same denomination are guided by the slider and stored in the coin hopper.

[0044] Next, we will explain the main parts of the coin processing device 1. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the main parts of the coin processing device.

[0045] In the separation unit 6, the inserted coins 10 are temporarily stored in a storage container 12. The stored coins 10 are transported one by one by a disk 15. The disk 15 rotates clockwise. When a coin 10 is transported to the position of the delivery unit 7, a lever 54 operates to push the coin 10 toward the recognition unit 8. The pushed-out coin 10 passes through the delivery unit 7 and enters between the receivers of the wheel 21. The wheel 21 rotates clockwise.

[0046] 3 shows a state in which the sensor cover 53 that covers the recognition unit 8 is open. In a normal use state, the sensor cover 53 is closed so as to cover the wheel 21.

[0047] In the recognition unit 8, the coins 10 are moved one by one on the holding base 13 by the wheel 21. A guide unit 18 is disposed below the recognition unit 8. The guide unit 18 is part of a guide wall disposed on the outer periphery of the wheel 21. The guide unit 18 is disposed linearly to detect the coin 10 under certain conditions. The coin 10 slides on the holding base 13 along the guide unit 18, being pushed by the wheel 21. Because the holding base 13 is disposed at an angle relative to the horizontal, gravity applies a downward force to the coin 10 along the holding base 13. The circumferential surface of the coin 10 contacts the guide wall, and the front or back surface contacts the holding base 13. When the wheel 21 passes through the lowest point, it transports the coin 10 upward against gravity. The coin 10 is transported while in contact with the guide unit 18. The circumferential surface of the coin 10 slides or rolls while in contact with the guide unit 18. The coin 10 can be passed through the detection area of ​​the identification sensor 19 under certain conditions.

[0048] The coin 10 whose denomination has been identified by the identification sensor 19 passes through the delivery port 50 and is delivered from the recognition unit 8 to the sorting unit 9.

[0049] The delivery port 50 is a through hole that penetrates the front and back of the holding base 13. At the back of the delivery port 50, the transport path 51 and rails 25 of the sorting unit 9 are arranged. The transport path 51 and rails 25 are guide paths for the coins 10. The coins 10 are pushed by the wheels 21 and dropped into the delivery port 50. The coins 10 pass through the delivery port 50 and reach the transport path 51 and rails 25. In other words, the part facing the delivery port 50 is the delivery area of ​​the sorting unit 9 for the coins 10.

[0050] The transport path 51 is inclined relative to the horizontal direction. It is inclined at an angle of approximately 45 degrees. To facilitate the transfer of coins 10 from the recognition unit 8 to the sorting unit 9, it is preferable that the inclination angle of the holding base 13 and the inclination angle of the transport path 51 are the same or have a small difference of within ±10 degrees. The coin 10 leans against the transport path 51 with its outer circumferential side in contact with the rail 25 and its front or back in contact with the transport path 51, and is pushed by the transport pin rollers 23 to move along the transport path 51 and rail 25. The coin 10 is pushed by the transport pin rollers 23 and slides while leaning against the inclined surface of the transport path 51, while also rolling or sliding on the rail 25. The transport pin rollers 23 can also be considered a pushing body that contacts and pushes the coin 10. That is, the coin 10 is pushed by the pusher and transported while being supported by a support section in which the transport path 51 is a first support section and the rail 25 is a second support section. Components constituting the path for transporting the coin 10, such as the transport belt 24, transport pin rollers 23, transport path 51, and rail 25, are covered by a front cover 55. The transport path 51 is also formed by a part of the transport path cover 52. Furthermore, since the recognition unit 8 is disposed above the transport path 51, the delivery area where the coin 10 is delivered from the recognition unit 8 to the sorting unit 9 is not covered by the front cover 55.

[0051] The conveying path 51 and the rail 25 are spaced apart, with the conveying pin rollers 23 passing between them. The conveying belt 24 equipped with the conveying pin rollers 23 is looped around two pulleys, which will be described later. The pulleys are equipped with flanges 45. The flanges 45 narrow the path of the conveying pin rollers 23, preventing the delivered coins 10 from entering the path.

[0052] The conveyance path 51 is inclined, and the conveyance path 51 and rail 25 are curved in a top view, so that coins 10 are transferred along the curved portion. The conveyance path 51 and rail 25 have a curved portion and a straight portion. The separator 6 and the recognition unit 8 can be arranged above the curved portion. That is, the sorting unit 9 is arranged below the recognition unit 8. The conveyance belt 24 is also wound around a pulley. In a top view, the conveyance path 51 and rail 25 are curved along the conveyance belt 24 wound around the pulley. By arranging the conveyance path 51 and rail 25 along the conveyance belt 24, the longitudinal length of the coin processing device 1 is shortened. Furthermore, by inclining the conveyance path 51 and arranging the drive units, such as the conveyance belt 24, below the conveyance path 51, the transverse length of the coin processing device 1 is shortened. This configuration enables the coin processing device 1 to be made more compact.

[0053] Fig. 4 is a top view of the main parts of the coin processing device. Fig. 4 is a top view of the state in which the sensor cover 53 is closed and the front cover 55 is removed. In explaining Fig. 4, the configuration in Fig. 2 will be referred to.

[0054] The separating unit 6 separates the coins 10 accumulated in the storage container 12 one by one, and passes the separated coins 10 to the recognizing unit 8. The recognizing unit 8 recognizes the denomination of the coins 10, and passes them to the sorting unit 9 one by one.

[0055] In the sorting unit 9, coins 10 are pushed by the transport pin rollers 23 along the rail 25 and move. A first flap 56, a second flap 57, and a third flap 58 are arranged along the rail 25. The first flap 56 is in any one of a first state in which the coin 10 passes through, a second state in which the coin 10 moves to the first slider 27, and a third state in which the coin 10 moves to the fourth slider 33. The first flap 56 is switched among the first state, the second state, and the third state by a drive unit (not shown). Like the first flap 56, the second flap 57 can be switched among the first state in which the coin 10 passes through, the second state in which the coin 10 moves to the second slider 29, and the third state in which the coin 10 moves to the fifth slider 35 by a drive unit (not shown). Like the first flap 56, the third flap 58 can be switched by a drive unit (not shown) to one of the following states: a first state in which the coin 10 passes through, a second state in which the coin 10 moves to the third slider 31, and a third state in which the coin 10 moves to the sixth slider 37. By configuring it in this way, the coin 10 is guided in one of seven directions.

[0056] A first coin hopper 28, a second coin hopper 30, and a third coin hopper 32 are arranged in a line along the rail 25, and a fourth coin hopper 34, a fifth coin hopper 36, and a sixth coin hopper 38 are arranged in a line along the rail 25.

[0057] The seventh slider 39 is disposed at the tip of the rail 25 in the coin 10 transport direction, and guides the coin 10 that has passed through the first flap 56, the second flap 57, and the third flap 58 to the overflow container 40. The end of the rail 25 is curved in top view, and the seventh slider 39 is disposed at the curved portion. The coin 10 can be guided to the overflow container 40 without providing a flap.

[0058] The coin processing device 1 is provided with three flaps midway along the rail 25, and can guide the coin 10 to any one of seven storage sections.

[0059] The base end of the transport path 51 of the sorting unit 9 is configured to overlap below the recognition unit 8. A seventh slider 39 is also arranged at the tip of the transport path 51. By configuring the base end and tip end of the transport path 51 to be curved when viewed from above, the longitudinal length of the coin processing device 1 is shortened, making it more compact.

[0060] The transport path cover 52 is provided with a transport path 51. The transport path 51 is an inclined surface provided on the rail 25 side of the transport path cover 52. The front or back of the coin 10 comes into contact with the transport path 51. The coin 10 slides on the transport path 51. A gap of a predetermined distance is provided between the lower edge of the transport path 51 and the rail 25. The transport pin rollers 23 protrude outward from this gap. In other words, the rail 25 is arranged along the lower edge of the transport path 51. The section between the lower edge of the transport path 51 and the upper edge opposite the lower edge is an inclined surface. The front of the coin 10 comes into contact with the inclined surface, and the coin 10 leans against it and is transported. The transport pin rollers 23 move between the transport path 51 and the rail 25. The coin 10 is pushed and moved by the transport pin rollers 23.

[0061] The coins 10, whose denominations have been identified, are stored in coin hoppers, with their routes determined for each denomination by the sorting unit 9. As shown in Figure 2, the stored coins 10 are discharged from each independently controlled coin hopper onto a discharge belt 42, pass through the dispensing port 4, and are dispensed into a tray 3.

[0062] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a coin hopper. Each coin hopper has the same configuration. The coin hopper is composed of a main body 60 and a storage container that stores coins 10. FIG. 5 is a top view when viewed from above with the storage container removed. The storage container can be detachably attached above the main body 60. A protrusion on the storage container is inserted into a fixing portion 67 on the main body 60 to fix it. Four fixing portions 67 are provided so as to surround the rotating body 61. An opening is provided at the bottom of the storage container at a position facing the rotating body 61. The coin hopper has a storage portion for coins 10, with the rotating body 61 and hopper base 66 as the bottom and the storage container as the side.

[0063] The hopper base 66 has a flat surface on which the front or back of the coin 10 contacts and slides. The rotating body 61 is disposed above the hopper base 66 and rotates counterclockwise around the rotating body rotation axis 62. The rotating body 61 is provided with four hopper recesses 65 into which coins 10 can be placed. Coins 10 that have entered the hopper recesses 65 slide on the hopper base 66 as the rotating body 61 rotates. The hopper base 66 is provided with limiting pins 63 to prevent the coins 10 from being transported. A circumferential recess that avoids the limiting pins 63 is provided on the back side of the rotating body 61, on the outer periphery of the hopper recesses 65. A groove through which the coins 10 can pass is provided on the back side of the rotating body 61, on the outer periphery of the hopper recesses 65. When the coin 10 is transported by the rotating body 61, its direction of movement changes when it comes into contact with the limiting pins 63, and it moves toward the discharge outlet. Grooves provided on the outer periphery of the rotating body 61 serve as passages for the coins 10, and the coins 10 are dispensed from the rotating body 61. The dispensed coins 10 are detected by a dispensing sensor 64. The number of coins 10 dispensed can be determined by counting the detection signals output from the dispensing sensor 64. For example, the number of coins 10 dispensed is counted using a control circuit (not shown). The control circuit (not shown) stops the rotation of the rotating body 61 when the number of dispensed coins 10 reaches a desired number. The control circuit (not shown) can control the number of coins 10 dispensed from the coin hopper.

[0064] As explained in Figure 2, the coin processing device 1 has two rows of three coin hoppers arranged along the discharge belt 42. The coin 10 discharge sides of the coin hoppers face each other. The coins 10 are discharged from each coin hopper toward the discharge belt 42.

[0065] Next, we will explain the sorting unit 9 of the coin processing device 1. Figure 6 is an exploded view illustrating the sorting unit of the coin processing device. The explanation will be made with reference to Figure 2.

[0066] A first pulley shaft 76 and a second pulley shaft 77 are arranged on the case base 78. A drive pulley 73 is inserted into the first pulley shaft 76. A driven pulley 74 is inserted into the second pulley shaft 77. A motor (not shown) is connected to the drive pulley 73 via a gear train. A conveyor belt 24 is wound around the drive pulley 73 and the driven pulley 74. The conveyor belt 24 is a toothed belt, and the teeth of the conveyor belt 24 mesh with the gear of the drive pulley 73 and the gear of the driven pulley 74. When the drive pulley 73 is driven by a motor (not shown), the conveyor belt 24 and the driven pulley 74 rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the drive pulley 73. Twelve conveyor pin rollers 23 are fixed to the conveyor belt 24 at equal intervals.

[0067] A rail 25 for guiding the coin 10 is arranged on the case base 78. The rail 25 is formed so that the bottom, which contacts the side of the coin 10, and the side, which contacts a part of the front or back of the coin 10, form an angle of approximately 90 degrees. The side has a height of approximately 1 / 3 to 1 / 10 of the diameter of the coin 10. The side supports the transport path 51. Even without the side, the presence of the transport path 51 makes it possible to support the front or back of the coin 10. The side is provided to prevent the coin 10 from getting between the transport path 51 and the rail 25.

[0068] A first flap 56, a second flap 57, and a third flap 58 are arranged along the coin 10 transport path of the rail 25. Each flap has a flap top 75. Coins 10 can pass by making the flap top 75 flush with the bottom of the rail 25. By making the flap top 75 flush with the rail 25, coins 10 can move along the transport path 51. A curved first curved rail 79 is formed at the base end of the rail 25, and a curved second curved rail 80 is formed at the tip end. Coins 10 are handed over from the recognition unit 8 to the first curved rail 79. An end of the second curved rail 80 is connected to the seventh slider 39.

[0069] In this example, the top of the third flap 58 is flush with the bottom of the rail 25. The coin 10 passes over the top of the third flap 58 and is transported along the transport path 51. In this case, the coin 10 does not move toward the third slider 31 or the sixth slider 37.

[0070] The top of the second flap 57 is not flush with the bottom of the rail 25. Although not shown in FIG. 6, the fifth slider 35 is provided at the rear side of the second slider 29. The second flap 57 interrupts the rail 25 to guide the coin 10 to the fifth slider 35. The second flap 57 is separated from the rail 25 to create a gap through which the coin 10 can fall. The coin 10 falls from the interrupted part of the rail 25 onto the fifth slider 35. Depending on the state of the top of the second flap 57, the coin 10 is guided to either the second slider 29 or the fifth slider 35.

[0071] The top of the first flap 56 is not flush with the bottom of the rail 25. The first flap 56 tilts its top toward the back of the drawing, interrupting the rail 25. The coin 10 falls into the interrupted part and slides down toward the front. Although not shown in FIG. 6, the first slider 27 is arranged on the front side and guides the sliding coin 10 to the first coin hopper 28. The sixth slider 37 is provided on the back side of the first slider 27. By changing the state of the first flap 56, it is possible to switch between letting the coin 10 pass, guiding it to the first slider 27, or guiding it to the sixth slider 37.

[0072] The conveyance path cover 52 covers the first pulley shaft 76, the second pulley shaft 77, the drive pulley 73, the driven pulley 74, and the conveyance belt 24. The conveyance path cover 52 is provided with a conveyance path 51 along the rail 25. Since the conveyance path 51 is inclined, the coin 10 leans against the conveyance path 51. The rail 25 has a first curved rail 79 at the base end when conveying the coin 10 and a second curved rail 80 at the tip end. The conveyance path 51 has a first curved conveyance path 70 and a second curved conveyance path 71 at positions corresponding to the first curved rail 79 and the second curved rail 80. In this way, the rail 25 and the conveyance path 51 each have a curved portion. The coin 10 can be moved along the curved surface. It is preferable that the rail 25 be arranged parallel to the horizontal direction so that the coin 10 does not roll on the rail 25 due to gravity. Even if the rail 25 is tilted, the base end of the rail 25 is made lower than the tip end so that the transport pin rollers 23 can push the coins 10. If the tilt is too large, there is a risk of malfunction in the transfer and transport of the coins 10, so the tilt should be small. For example, the tilt should be no more than 10 degrees from the horizontal.

[0073] The rail 25 and the transport path 51 are spaced apart by a predetermined distance. Transport pin rollers 23 move between the rail 25 and the transport path 51. The transport pin rollers 23 are positioned to protrude beyond the surface of the transport path 51 that contacts the coin 10, and the transport pin rollers 23 come into contact with the side of the coin 10. Of course, the rail 25 and the transport path 51 are also spaced apart by a predetermined distance at each curved portion, and the transport pin rollers 23 move between the curved portions.

[0074] The front cover 55 covers the transport path 51, the rail 25, the first flap 56, the second flap 57, and the third flap 58. A gap is provided between the front cover 55 and the transport path 51 to allow the coin 10 to move. The front cover 55 restricts the movement range of the coin 10 so that it does not come off the rail 25.

[0075] The drive pulley 73 has three flanges 45 arranged at equal intervals. The conveyor belt 24 is looped around the drive pulley 73 and driven pulley 74 so that the conveyor pin rollers 23 fit between the flanges 45. The flanges 45 protrude in a direction away from the rotation axis beyond the teeth of the drive pulley 73 that mesh with the conveyor belt. To prevent interference between the conveyor pin rollers 23 and the flanges 45, the conveyor pin rollers 23 are arranged on the conveyor belt 24 so that they are located between adjacent flanges 45.

[0076] The flange 45 is disposed between the first curved conveying path 70 and the first curved rail 79 without contacting them. The delivered coin 10 is blocked by the flange 45 and does not enter the gap between the first curved conveying path 70 and the first curved rail 79. The flange 45 prevents the coin 10 from entering the gap in the path of the conveying pin rollers 23, resulting in abnormal conveyance.

[0077] The transport path 51 can be divided into a curved portion and a straight portion at the boundary of the first step portion 47. The first curved transport path 70 is formed one step lower than the straight portion. To prevent coins 10 from moving in the straight portion without being pushed by the transport pin rollers 23, coins 10 that are not pushed by the transport pin rollers 23 are temporarily stopped, and the coins 10 are reliably pushed by the transport pin rollers 23.

[0078] Since the first curved transport path 70 is a transfer area for coins 10, coins 10 may bounce. By increasing the distance from the first curved transport path 70 to the expanded portion located at the tip of the transport pin roller 23, even if the coin 10 behaves unexpectedly, the side of the coin 10 can be prevented from escaping and contacting the transport pin roller 23. However, for a normal transport path for coins 10, it is not desirable to have a width wide enough to accommodate two coins 10 in the thickness direction. The first step portion 47 is inclined so that its height gradually increases from the curved portion of the transport path 51 toward the straight portion, i.e., in the transport direction of the coin 10. When the coin 10 is transported by the transport pin roller 23, it does not get caught on the first step portion 47 and stop. A protrusion 46 is located along the lower edge of the lower part of the first curved transport path 70 in a partial area of ​​the first curved transport path 70. The protrusion 46 is connected to the straight portion of the transport path 51 without any step. While the height of the protrusion 46 is equal to that of the first step 47 in the example described above, the height of the protrusion 46 may be lower than that of the first step 47. In this case, a step is created, and the step is gradually increased toward the downstream side in the coin 10 transport direction. The protrusion 46 is an obstruction means that prevents the coin 10, which is not pushed by the transport pin rollers 23, from moving in the rotation direction of the transport belt 24, i.e., the coin 10 transport direction. To accurately control the movement of the coin 10, the coin 10 must be transported by the transport pin rollers 23. If the coin 10 is moved by anything other than the transport pin rollers 23, transport problems may occur. The protrusion 46 is provided to prevent the coin 10 from moving freely when supported by the first curved rail 79 and the first curved transport path 70. The flange 45 of the drive pulley 73 passes, separated from the back side of the coin 10 supported by the protrusion 46.

[0079] In the portion where the conveyor belt 24 meshes with the drive pulley 73, the flange 45 is preferably positioned so as to be located in the center of adjacent conveyor pin rollers 23. Furthermore, it is preferable that the distance between the flange 45 and the conveyor pin rollers 23 is smaller than the diameter of the smallest size coin 10 to be used. Furthermore, a gap is created between the flange 45 and the first curved rail 79 below the flange 45. It is preferable that the distance between this flange 45 and the first curved rail 79 is smaller than the thickness of the thinnest coin 10 to be used. Furthermore, although an example has been shown in which there is one flange 45 between adjacent conveyor pin rollers 23, this is not limiting, and the flange 45 may be composed of multiple protrusions.

[0080] Coins 10 do not only have circular outer shapes, but also polygonal shapes such as dodecagonal and octagonal. Coins 10 with polygonal outer shapes slide on rails 25. The first flap 56, the second flap 57, and the third flap 58 are arranged in a straight line along the rails 25. By transporting the coins 10 in a straight line, it is possible to suppress bouncing and vibrations that occur during transport. This suppresses the behavior of the coins 10, allowing for stable transport of the coins 10. The coins 10 can move smoothly even when their path is changed by the first flap 56, the second flap 57, and the third flaps 58. In the sorting unit 9, the portion through which the coins 10 are transported can be divided into a curved portion and a straight portion. The first flap 56, the second flap 57, and the third flap 58 are arranged in the straight portion. A portion through which the coins 10 are delivered is arranged in the curved portion. Since the behavior of the coin 10 is likely to change in the curved section, it is necessary to design the structure so that transport failures are unlikely or do not occur. In addition, it is preferable that the distance from the first curved rail 79 to the first flap 56 is longer than the radius of the largest diameter coin 10 to be used. The coin 10 reaches the first flap 56 after it has completely switched from the curved section to the straight section. It is preferable that the distance from the second curved rail 80 to the seventh slider 39 is longer than the radius of the coin 10. It is preferable that the coin 10 reaches the seventh slider 39 after it has completely switched from the straight section to the curved section.

[0081] The movement of a polygonal coin 10 will be described using the first flap 56 as an example. A polygonal coin 10 slides on the rail 25. A circular coin 10 slides or rolls on the rail 25. If the first flap 56 is positioned higher than the rail 25, a step will occur. If a step exists and a polygonal coin 10 is slid, the coin 10 will hit the step. The coin 10 may behave unexpectedly, such as bouncing, due to the force of the conveying pin roller 23, which may result in conveyance failure. Therefore, it is preferable to make the first flap 56 flush with the rail 25. However, if it is difficult to make the first flap 56 flush with the rail 25, the upstream side of the first flap 56 in the direction of coin 10 travel is positioned lower than the rail 25, and the downstream side of the first flap 56 in the direction of coin 10 travel is positioned higher than the rail 25. Even if there are some steps, the polygonal coin 10 moves from the higher to the lower, so it is not stopped by the steps and is transported along the rail 25. The coin 10 vibrates a little, but this does not cause any problems.

[0082] It is preferable not to place the first flap 56 in the curved section. More preferably, the first flap 56 is placed in a straight section away from the curved section by at least the radius of the coin 10. In the curved section, the edge of the coin 10 floats off the conveyance path 51. In the curved section, the coin 10 is conveyed in an unstable state. In such a case, changing the path of the coin 10 is avoided. This prevents the coin 10 from being conveyed improperly due to unexpected behavior. Furthermore, in the conveyance path of the coin 10 from when it is transferred from the previous process to when it is stored in the coin hopper, a coin 10 that moves unexpectedly may collide with the preceding conveyance pin roller 23, causing the coin 10 being pushed by the conveyance pin roller 23 to be thrown away. Therefore, it is preferable to provide the conveyance path with a mechanism to suppress unexpected behavior of the coin 10.

[0083] Next, the operation of guiding coins to a desired coin hopper will be explained using a cross-sectional view of the coin processing device. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the sorting section of the coin processing device. The second flap 57 will be used as an example. The other flaps have the same configuration.

[0084] The transport path 51 is inclined relative to the horizontal direction. For example, the transport path 51 is inclined at 45 degrees. Coins 10 leaning against the transport path 51 are transported by transport pin rollers 23 fixed to the transport belt 24. The front cover 55 is disposed opposite the transport path 51. It prevents the coins 10 from straying from the transport path. The flap top 75 is also disposed flush with the rail 25 and forms part of the transport path for the coins 10. The coins 10 move along the flap top 75 of the second flap 57 during transport. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view at the position of the second flap 57. When the surface of the rail 25 that contacts the side of the coin 10 is flush with the flap top 75, the coin 10 passes through. In this state, the coin 10 does not move toward the second slider 29 or the fifth slider 35.

[0085] The transport path 51 provided in the transport path cover 52 is disposed in a position where it partially overlaps above the driven pulley 74 when viewed from above. Similarly, the transport path 51 is disposed in a position where it partially overlaps above the drive pulley 73 when viewed from above. The transport path 51 that transports coins 10 partially overlaps the pulley when viewed from above.

[0086] The transport pin rollers 23 protrude from between the lower end of the transport path 51 and the rail 25. The flat surface of the transport belt 24 is arranged parallel to the vertical direction, and the transport pin rollers 23 are provided diagonally upward at a 45-degree angle from that surface. The transport path 51 is arranged at a 45-degree angle with respect to the horizontal direction. The rotation axis of the transport pin rollers 23 is approximately perpendicular to the transport path 51. The rotation axis of the transport pin rollers 23 is aligned with the thickness direction of the coin 10. When the transport pin rollers 23 push the coin 10, if a force other than that along the transport path 51 or the rail 25 is applied, the transport pin rollers 23 rotate. The rotation of the transport pin rollers 23 releases the force in the unnecessary direction and directs the coin 10 in the transport direction.

[0087] The second flap 57 can move in a first flap movement direction 82 or a second flap movement direction 83 indicated by the arrows in the drawing, with a flap shaft 81 as the center of rotation. The position of the second flap 57 can be switched by a drive mechanism (not shown).

[0088] When the second flap 57 is driven in the direction of the first flap movement direction 82, the rail 25 is broken and the coin 10 slides down in the direction of the second slider 29. The coin 43 shown by the dotted line in the figure slides down on the second slider 29 and is led to the second coin hopper 30 (FIG. 2).

[0089] When the second flap 57 is driven in the direction of the second flap movement direction 83, the rail 25 is broken and the coin 10 slides down in the direction of the fifth slider 35. The coin 44 shown by the dotted line in the figure slides down on the fifth slider 35 and is guided to the fifth coin hopper 36 (FIG. 2).

[0090] In this way, the second flap 57 can be swung around the flap shaft 81 as the center of rotation. By switching the position of the flap top 75, the coin 10 can be guided in three directions. The other first flap 56 and third flap 58 can also guide the coin 10 in three directions in the same way. The sorting unit 9 switches the state of the three flaps based on the denomination of the coin 10 identified by the recognition unit 8, and stores the coin 10 in the coin hopper corresponding to the denomination.

[0091] Next, the area where coins 10 are transferred from the recognition unit 8 to the sorting unit 9 will be described with reference to Fig. 8 and Fig. 9. Other figures such as Fig. 2 will be referenced as necessary. Fig. 8 is a diagram explaining the coin transfer area of ​​the sorting unit. Fig. 9 is a diagram explaining the state of coins in the coin transfer area of ​​the sorting unit.

[0092] The transport pin rollers 23 move through the opening between the first curved rail 79 and the first curved transport path 70, which are spaced apart. The openings are evenly spaced. Coins 10 are dropped from the upper opening of the first curved transport path 70 and delivered to the first curved rail 79 and the first curved transport path 70. The first curved transport path 70, the first curved rail 79, and the flange 45 catch the falling coins 10. If the coin 10 enters the path of the transport pin rollers 23, transport problems such as jamming may occur. To prevent transport problems, the flange 45 is placed in the path of the transport pin rollers 23 to narrow the path. The flange 45 can also be considered a blocking part that blocks the coin 10 from entering the path of the transport pin rollers 23.

[0093] The flange 45 is provided on the upper surface of the drive pulley 73. Teeth that mesh with the conveyor belt 24 are provided on the lower side of the flange 45 of the drive pulley 73, and the conveyor belt 24 is wound around the flange 45. The flange 45 protrudes beyond the teeth of the drive pulley 73 in a direction away from the rotation axis of the drive pulley 73. The flange 45 is provided on the upper surface of the drive pulley 73 so as to be located above the passage of the conveyor pin rollers 23.

[0094] The first curved conveying path 70 has a protrusion 46. The protrusion 46 is a projection arranged at the bottom of the first curved conveying path 70, adjacent to the linear conveying path 51, along the path of the conveying pin roller 23, so that the coin 10, whose lower part is supported by the first curved rail 79, does not lean against or be pushed by the flange 45. The protrusion 46 has a second inclined portion 59 so that the coin 10 falling from above does not get caught on the protrusion 46 and stay there. The second inclined portion 59 allows the coin 10 to slide down. When the circumferential surface of the coin 10 is supported by the lower first curved rail 79 and the front or back of the coin 10 is supported by the flange 45, the angle formed by the first curved conveying path 70 and the front or back of the coin 10 is a first angle 84. When the circumferential surface of the coin 10 is supported on the lower first curved rail 79 and the front or back surface of the coin 10 is supported by the protrusion 46, the angle formed between the first curved conveying path 70 and the front or back surface of the coin 10 is the second angle 85. The first angle 84 is smaller than the second angle 85. When the coin 10 is supported by the protrusion 46, the coin 10 does not come into contact with the flange 45.

[0095] The protrusion 46 is arranged along the edge of the lower end of the surface of the first curved conveying path 70. The protrusion 46 is arranged at the end of the first curved conveying path 70 on the downstream side in the conveying direction of the coin 10. The protrusion 46 extends upward from the edge of the lower end of the first curved conveying path 70, and preferably extends to a position where it overlaps with the upper end of the coin 10 supported by the first curved rail 79.

[0096] A second step 49 is provided at the boundary between the first curved rail 79 and the straight portion. The first curved rail 79 is formed one step lower than the straight portion at the boundary of the second step 49. The second step 49 is inclined so that its height gradually increases from the curved portion toward the straight portion. Due to this inclination, when a coin 10 is transported by the transport pin rollers 23, it will not get caught on the second step 49 and stop.

[0097] A protrusion 46 is arranged at the bottom of the first curved conveying path 70, and the protrusion 46 is connected to the linear portion of the conveying path 51 without any step. The protrusion 46 has a first inclined portion 48 formed so as to gradually increase in height from the surface of the first curved conveying path 70. The coin 10 pushed by the conveying pin roller 23 is conveyed along the surface of the first inclined portion 48. The protrusion 46 can also be said to be a means for narrowing the height of the conveying path for the coin 10 on the first curved conveying path 70. The first curved conveying path 70 has an area where the protrusion 46 is arranged and an area where it is not arranged.

[0098] When the coin 10 is pushed by the transport pin roller 23, it is transported over the first step portion 47 and the second step portion 49, and when it is not pushed by the transport pin roller 23, it may get caught on the first step portion 47 and the second step portion 49 and stop.

[0099] It is preferable that the first step portion 47 and the second step portion 49 act on the coin 10 at approximately the same time. Since the first step portion 47 and the second step portion 49 are located at the boundary between the curved portion and the straight portion, it is preferable that the first step portion 47 and the second step portion 49 are located on a single straight line. The first step portion 47 and the second step portion 49 are formed so that their heights gradually increase in the direction of transport of the coin 10, so that the coin 10 can overcome the steps and the transport of the coin 10 will not be stopped by the step portion.

[0100] In areas where the protrusions 46 are not arranged, the coin 10 comes into contact with the flange 45, and therefore the coin 10 may move as the flange 45 moves. However, in areas where the protrusions 46 are arranged, the protrusions 46 prevent the coin 10 from coming into contact with the flange 45, and the flange 45 can prevent the coin 10 from moving. The coin 10 is transported by the transport pin rollers 23. Furthermore, the coin 10 may roll in the transport direction due to the momentum of being dropped, but the rolling coin 10 can be stopped by the difference in surface height of the protrusions 46, the first step 47, the second step 49, etc. The stopped coin 10 is then transported by the transport pin rollers 23.

[0101] If coins 10 are transported without the use of the transport pin rollers 23, the coins 10 may be missorted or transport problems may occur. For example, assume that the following coin 10 is of a different denomination from the preceding coin 10. If a small-diameter coin 10 rolls close to the preceding transport pin roller 23, the distance between the preceding coin 10 and the following coin 10 becomes short. If the distance between the preceding coin 10 and the following coin 10 is short, the flap that drops the preceding coin 10 opens and stores it, and the following small-diameter coin 10 may pass the flap before the flap completely closes, causing problems such as being accidentally dropped or getting caught in the flap. Therefore, it is necessary for coins 10 to be transported by the transport pin rollers 23. Since the behavior of coins 10 is particularly unstable in the coin delivery area, it is necessary to stabilize the behavior of coins 10.

[0102] In addition to the configuration in which the first curved transport path 70 is provided with the protrusion 46, the first curved rail 79 is inclined to ensure that the coins 10 are transported by the transport pin rollers 23. The first curved rail 79 is lower on the upstream side in the transport direction of the coins 10 and higher on the downstream side. Similarly, the portion of the rail 25 following the first curved rail 79 is lower on the upstream side in the transport direction of the coins 10 and higher on the downstream side. The inclination of the rail 25 makes it difficult for the coins 10 to move in the transport direction of the coins 10, and they are transported by being pushed by the transport pin rollers 23.

[0103] The flange 45 is disposed between the lower end of the first curved conveying path 70 and the upper end of the first curved rail 79 in a top view. The flange 45 is disposed between the end of the protrusion 46 and the upper end of the first curved rail 79 in a top view. Furthermore, the flange 45 is disposed so that the lower end of the first curved conveying path 70 and the upper end of the first curved rail 79 do not overlap in a top view. Furthermore, the flange 45 is disposed so that the upper end of the first curved conveying path 70 and the upper end of the first curved rail 79 do not overlap in a top view. Therefore, a gap may be generated between the lower end of the first curved conveying path 70 and the upper end of the first curved rail 79 in a top view, and a coin 10 may get caught in this gap.

[0104] Also, when viewed from the side, there is a gap between the lower end of the first curved conveying path 70 and the upper end of the first curved rail 79. Therefore, it is preferable to make the gap narrower than the thickness of the coin 10 being used. It is possible to narrow the path by making the conveying pin rollers 23 thinner, but considering the strength of the conveying pin rollers 23, this cannot be made thinner. Therefore, even if the conveying pin rollers 23 are not made thinner, it is necessary to provide a blocking section that prevents coins 10 from entering between the lower end of the first curved conveying path 70 and the upper end of the first curved rail 79.

[0105] In order to ensure that the transport pin rollers 23 contact the coins 10 reliably, the distance from the first curved transport path 70 to the tip of the transport pin rollers 23 is increased on the upstream side of the first curved transport path 70 in the transport direction of the coins 10. Furthermore, on the downstream side of the first curved transport path 70 in the transport direction of the coins 10, in order to ensure that the coins 10 are transported by the transport pin rollers 23, the coins 10 are prevented from moving around freely, and furthermore, the coins 10 are prevented from moving by the flange 45.

[0106] In the portion where the conveyor belt 24 meshes with the drive pulley 73, the flange 45 is preferably positioned so as to be located in the center of adjacent conveyor pin rollers 23. Furthermore, it is preferable that the distance between the flange 45 and the conveyor pin rollers 23 is smaller than the diameter of the smallest size coin 10 to be used. Furthermore, a gap is created below the flange 45 and between the first curved conveyor path 70. It is preferable that the distance between this flange 45 and the first curved conveyor path 70 is smaller than the thickness of the thinnest coin 10 to be used. Furthermore, although an example has been shown in which one flange 45 is provided between adjacent conveyor pin rollers 23, this is not limiting, and the flange 45 may be composed of multiple protrusions.

[0107] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a second example of the coin transfer area of ​​the sorting unit.

[0108] A biasing means 86 is provided at a position facing the first curved conveying path 70, and biases the coin 10 supported by the first curved rail 79 and the first curved conveying path 70 toward the first curved conveying path 70. Since the front cover 55 does not cover the first curved conveying path 70, a protruding portion is provided at the end of the front cover 55 at a position facing the first curved conveying path 70. The biasing means 86 is fixed to the protruding portion. The biasing means 86 faces the conveying direction of the coin 10 and is positioned so that the distance between the biasing means 86 and the first curved conveying path 70 is short. For example, even without the first step portion 47 and the second step portion 49, the passage of the coin 10 is narrowed to temporarily prevent free movement of the coin 10 in the conveying direction so that the coin 10 is conveyed by the following conveying pin rollers 23. The biasing means 86 can also be said to be a means for narrowing the height of the coin 10 transport path of the first curved transport path 70. The biasing means 86 is also an obstruction means for obstructing the movement of coins 10 that are not pushed by the transport pin rollers 23. In order to control the movement of the coin 10, it is necessary to transport it by the transport pin rollers 23. The biasing means 86 is provided to prevent the coin 10 from moving freely when it is supported on the first curved rail and the first curved transport path 70. [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] 1 Coin processing device 2 Inlet 3 trays 4 Withdrawal port 5 Display device 6 Separation section 7 Delivery Department 8 Identification unit 9 Sorting section 10 coins 11 Coin Passage 12 Storage container 13 Holding Base 15 discs 16 Recess 17 Disk rotation direction 18 Information Department 19 Identification sensor 20 Wheel rotation axis 21 Wheels 22 Wheel rotation direction 23 Conveyor pin roller 24 conveyor belt 25 Rail 26 Conveyor belt rotation direction 27 First Slider 29 Second Slider 31 Third Slider 33 4th Slider 35 5th Slider 37 No. 6 Slider 39 7th Slider 28 1st Coin Hopper 30 Second Coin Hopper 32 3rd Coin Hopper 34 4th Coin Hopper 36 5th Coin Hopper 38 6th Coin Hopper 40 Overflow Container 41 No. 8 Slider 42 Discharge belt 43 Dotted line coin 44 Dotted Coin 45 Tsuba 46 Protrusion 47 First step 48 1st slope part 49 Second step 50 Delivery port 51 Transport path 52 Transport path cover 53 Sensor cover 54 Lever 55 Front cover 56 First flap 57 Second flap 58 Third flap 59 2nd slope part 60 Main Unit 61 Rotating body 62 Rotating body rotation axis 63 Restriction pin 64 Dispense sensor 65 Hopper recess 66 Hopper Base 67 Fixed part 70 First curved conveying path 71 Second curved conveying path 73 Drive pulley 74 Driven pulley 75 Top of flap 76 First pulley shaft 77 Second pulley shaft 78 Case base 79 First curved rail 80 Second curved rail 81 Flap axis 82 Flap first movement direction 83 Flap second movement direction 84 First Angle 85 Second Angle 86 Actuation means

Claims

1. An identification unit that identifies the denomination of each separated coin; a conveyance path that slidably supports the coin delivered from the recognition unit; a conveyor belt that is wound around at least a first pulley and a second pulley, rotates, and has a plurality of pushing bodies that come into contact with the circumferential surface of the coin supported on the conveying path and push the coin; the transport path has a first support portion and a second support portion for supporting the coin, the first support portion has a surface inclined with respect to the horizontal direction, the coin slides on the inclined surface, the second support portion is spaced apart from a lower edge of the first support portion and is disposed along the lower edge, and supports a peripheral surface of the coin, the conveyor belt is curved in accordance with the outer periphery of the first pulley, the first support portion has a first curved portion curved along the conveyor belt, and the second support portion has a second curved portion curved along the conveyor belt, the first pulley has a flange portion that protrudes in a direction away from the rotation axis beyond the teeth that mesh with the conveyor belt, and the flange portion moves between the first curved portion and the second curved portion as the first pulley rotates, preventing the coin from entering between the first curved portion and the second curved portion; the pushing bodies are arranged at equal intervals on the conveyor belt so as to be positioned between the adjacent flange portions when the first pulley is rotated, a flap disposed on the transport path, which changes its position to switch the direction of movement of the coin based on the denomination of the coin identified by the identification unit; The second support portion has a step portion protruding from the surface in the section of the transport path where the coin does not come into contact with the flange portion and where the coin reaches the flap, and the step portion stops the coin rolling in the transport direction without being pushed by the pushing body.

2. The coin processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the flaps are arranged in a plurality on the linear portion of the second support portion.

3. 3. The coin processing device according to claim 1, wherein the step portion has an inclined surface that gradually rises from the surface of the second support portion in the conveying direction.

Images