Coin processing device

Abstract

It is positioned along the transport path and dampens vibrations in the sorting gates that sort coins by denomination after their denomination has been identified. [Solution] A gate slider 72 is positioned between a first solenoid 70 and a second solenoid 71, with a second distribution gate 57 engaged between them. The gate slider 72 has a first plunger 73 of the first solenoid 70 connected to one end and a second plunger 75 of the second solenoid 71 connected to the other end. Driving one of the solenoids moves the gate slider 72, and in response to this movement, the second distribution gate 57 rotates around the distribution gate axis 59 as its center of rotation, changing the direction of coin movement. The vibrations generated when the position of the gate slider 72 is changed are damped by a braking mechanism, shortening the vibration convergence time and speeding up the operation of the gate slider 72 and the second distribution gate 57.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a coin processing device that stores coins in containers for each denomination and delivers the coins stored in the containers one by one.

Background Art

[0002] Generally, the circulating currency issued by a country includes coins of multiple denominations. Since coins have different diameters, thicknesses, materials, and designs for each denomination, anyone can easily identify the denomination. Because each denomination has different characteristics, the denomination of a coin can be identified by a machine. A coin processing device identifies the denomination of a coin, stores the coin in a storage container for each denomination according to the identification result, and pays out the stored coins as needed.

[0003] For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-166367 describes a coin processing device. This coin processing device includes a step of delivering a plurality of coins inserted into a storage container one by one, a step of identifying the denomination of each coin being conveyed one by one, and a step of storing the identified coins separately for each denomination, so that the inserted coins are stored for each denomination.

[0004] In the step of identifying the denomination, the denomination of each coin being conveyed one by one is identified. In the step of storing the coins separately for each denomination, the coins whose denominations were identified in the previous step are transferred between the conveying pins arranged on the belt and pushed by the conveying pins. A coin sorting unit is arranged in the middle of the coin conveying path. The coin sorting unit has a distribution gate that changes the moving direction of the coin and guides the conveyed coins to predetermined coin hoppers for each denomination. The coin hoppers arranged for each denomination store coins of the same denomination.

[0005] A coin hopper containing coins of the same denomination can be controlled by a control mechanism to dispense a desired number of coins. An example of a coin processing device is an automatic change dispenser. An automatic change dispenser stores the inserted coins by denomination and calculates the denomination and number of coins to be dispensed based on the amount of change. Based on the calculated denomination and number, the automatic change dispenser dispenses coins from the coin hopper corresponding to each denomination. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-166367 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] The sorting gate, which changes the direction of movement of the transported coins, guides the coins to the path leading to the coin hopper of the corresponding denomination by changing its orientation according to the denomination identified by the identification unit and the position of the coin during transport. After guiding the coins, the sorting gate changes its orientation according to the denomination of the next coin to be transported. If a coin approaches the sorting gate before the vibration of the sorting gate has subsided, there was a risk of malfunction in coin transport, such as the coin being stored incorrectly.

[0008] The present invention provides a coin processing device that can suitably transport coins in a sorting unit. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The present invention relates to a coin processing device which comprises a sorting gate arranged in a coin transport path and which switches the transport direction of the coins, and an actuator which changes the orientation of the sorting gate, and which changes the orientation of the sorting gate according to the denomination of the deposited coins and transports the coins by switching the transport direction according to the denomination, wherein the orientation of the sorting gate has at least a first orientation and a second orientation, and which comprises a braking means which biases the sorting gate in a direction to maintain the first orientation when the actuator transitions the sorting gate from the first orientation to the second orientation, and biases the sorting gate in a direction to move the sorting gate to the first orientation when the actuator transitions the sorting gate from the second orientation to the first orientation. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, the time it takes for the vibration of the sorting gate to subside can be shortened, coins can be guided while the sorting gate maintains a stable posture, and the coin transport speed can also be improved. Furthermore, according to the present invention, a coin processing device can be provided that can suitably transport coins in the sorting section. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the coin processing device. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a coin processing device. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the main components of the coin processing device. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a top view of the main part of the coin processing device. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the distribution section of a coin processing device. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is the first diagram illustrating the drive mechanism of the distribution gate. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a second diagram illustrating the drive mechanism of the distribution gate. [Figure 8]Figure 8 is a third diagram illustrating the drive mechanism of the distribution gate. [Figure 9] Figure 9 illustrates another example of a drive mechanism for a distribution gate. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 1 to 9. Each figure is only a schematic representation to the extent that the present invention can be fully understood. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated examples. In addition, common or similar components in each figure are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0013] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the exterior of the coin processing device. The coin processing device 1 is covered by a roughly rectangular outer case. The coin processing device 1 is equipped with a coin slot 2 for inserting coins and a tray 3 for receiving dispensed coins.

[0014] The opening of the coin slot 2 for inserting coins is located on the front side of the top surface of the outer case. The tray 3 for receiving dispensed coins is located on the front surface of the outer case. The dispensing slot 4, which penetrates the inside and outside of the coin processing device 1, is located on the front surface of the outer case at a position corresponding to the tray 3. The tray 3 receives the coins dispensed through the dispensing slot 4. A display device 5 is located next to the coin slot 2 on the front side of the top surface of the outer case. The display device 5 displays the status of the coin processing device 1, the amount deposited, the amount withdrawn, and other information. The device that separates, identifies, stores, and dispenses the inserted coins is covered by the outer case.

[0015] For example, the coin processing device 1 is a device for depositing and withdrawing coins, such as an automatic change machine or an automatic currency exchange machine. Coins are inserted into the insertion slot 2. The inserted coins are acquired by a control unit (not shown) according to the denomination, the conveyance is controlled, and the coins are stored in a coin hopper corresponding to the denomination. When paying out coins, the control unit (not shown) calculates the denomination and number of coins to be paid out, controls the coin hopper, and discharges the coins. The discharged coins are sent to the tray 3.

[0016] Next, the configuration of the coin processing device 1 will be described using a schematic diagram. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the coin processing device. Coins generally used are composed of multiple denominations. Coins have different elements such as size, material, and design for each denomination.

[0017] The coin processing device 1 separates the inserted coins one by one and identifies the denominations of the separated coins. The coin processing device 1 stores the identified coins according to the denomination. Further, the coin processing device 1 reuses the coins stored separately according to the denomination for payout.

[0018] The coin processing device 1 is divided into three parts. The three parts are a separation unit 6 that separates and sends out the inserted coins one by one, an identification unit 8 that identifies the denominations of the coins, and a distribution unit 9 that stores the coins separately according to 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 10 inserted into the insertion slot 2 passes through the coin passage 11 and is stored in the storage container 12. In FIG. 2, the insertion slot 2, the coin passage 11, and the storage container 12 are shown by dashed lines. The coin 10 inserted into the insertion slot 2 is temporarily stored in the storage container 12 until it is separated and conveyed one by one.

[0020] A disk 15 is positioned on a holding base 13 of the base of the coin processing device 1 so as to be rotatable in the direction of disk rotation 17 indicated by the arrow, with respect to the disk rotation axis 14. A storage container 12 is positioned below the disk 15. The storage container 12 has a bottom formed in a shape that follows the outer circumference of the disk 15. The storage container 12 covers approximately the lower half of the disk 15. The holding base 13 and the disk 15 are also positioned at an inclination with respect to the horizontal direction. The coins 10 lean against the disk 15. The disk 15 has multiple recesses 16 at equal angles around the disk rotation axis 14, for example, three recesses at 120-degree intervals. By rotating the disk 15, the coins 10 leaning against the disk 15 enter the recesses 16 and are transported with their sides in contact with the inner wall of the recesses 16. The disk 15 has three recesses 16 in which coins 10 are accommodated. The area on the outer periphery side of the recess 16 of the disk 15 is open.

[0021] The inclination angle of the retaining base 13 is preferably around 30 to 80 degrees, with 40 to 50 degrees being more preferable. If the inclination angle is too small, unwanted coins 10 will not be able to slide out of the recess 16, and if the inclination angle is too large, it will be difficult to get coins into the recess 16. In addition, the height of the inner wall of the recess 16 is set to be lower than the thickness of the coin 10 so that only one coin 10 can fit inside.

[0022] The coin 10 is held in a position where its front or back surface faces the flat bottom surface of the recess 16. Guide walls are arranged on the outer circumference of the disk 15 to guide the coin 10 in the direction of disk rotation. The coin 10 is transported with its circumferential surface in contact with the guide walls or the inner walls of the recess 16. A lever, described later, is provided in each recess 16. When the coin 10 is transported to the transfer unit 7, this lever moves the coin 10 in the direction of the outer circumference of the disk 15, i.e., in the direction of the identification unit 8, allowing the coin 10 to be transferred to the identification unit 8. The coin 10 is pushed out of the disk 15 of the separation unit 6 and picked up by the wheel 21 of the identification unit 8. The coin 10 passes through the area of ​​the recess 16 without an inner wall and is passed on to the next process.

[0023] The wheel 21 has receiving bodies arranged radially at 120-degree intervals around the wheel rotation axis 20. The wheel 21 rotates in the direction of wheel rotation 22, indicated by the arrow. One coin 10 is placed between each receiving body. The coins 10 are pushed by the pushing walls on the sides of the receiving bodies. The coins 10 pushed by the wheel 21 slide on the holding base 13. The wheel 21 rotates in conjunction with the disk 15, but in opposite directions.

[0024] The transfer unit 7, which receives the coins 10 one by one from the separation unit 6 to the identification unit 8, is located above the separation unit 6 and below the identification unit 8. Since the coins 10 slide from the separation unit 6 to the identification unit 8 via the transfer unit 7, the separation unit 6, transfer unit 7, and identification unit 8 are all arranged without any steps, forming a flat surface. Figure 2 shows an example where the identification unit 8 and separation unit 6 are arranged vertically, but as shown in Figure 3 later, the identification unit 8 and separation unit 6 can also be arranged horizontally.

[0025] In the identification unit 8, the coin 10 moves by being pushed by the wheel 21 with either its face or face in contact with the holding base 13. The holding base 13 is a flat surface. The identification unit 8 is equipped with a linear guide section 18. The identification unit 8 is equipped with an identification sensor 19 that detects the size, material, and other characteristics of the coin 10. The identification sensor 19 detects the characteristics of the coin 10 as it moves along the guide section 18 on the holding base 13. A control unit (not shown) identifies the denomination of the coin 10 based on the detection results of the identification sensor 19. Since the coins 10 are separated one by one by the wheel 21, the identification sensor 19 can suitably detect the characteristics of each coin 10 individually. The coins 10 whose denomination has been identified in the identification unit 8 are passed on to the sorting unit 9 in the next process.

[0026] In the sorting unit 9, a rail 25 is provided to guide the coins 10. The coins 10 are passed from the identification unit 8 to the rail 25 in the sorting unit 9. A conveyor belt 24 is provided along the rail 25. Conveyor pin rollers 23 are provided 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 conveyed along the rail 25. The conveyor pin rollers 23 can also be described as pushers that push and convey the coins 10. The conveyor belt 24 is an endless belt and rotates in the direction of the conveyor belt rotation direction 26 indicated by the arrow, in conjunction with the disc 15 and the wheel 21.

[0027] Along the rail 25, the first slider 27, second slider 29, third slider 31, fourth slider 33, fifth slider 35, sixth slider 37, and seventh slider 39 are arranged. These sliders are connected to coin hoppers of predetermined denominations. Coins 10 identified by the identification unit 8 are dropped onto the slider of the corresponding denomination and stored in the coin hopper of the corresponding denomination.

[0028] The first slider 27 is connected to the first coin hopper 28. The second slider 29 is connected to the second coin hopper 30. The third slider 31 is connected to the third coin hopper 32. The fourth slider 33 is connected to the fourth coin hopper 34. The fifth slider 35 is connected to the fifth coin hopper 36. The sixth slider 37 is connected to the sixth coin hopper 38.

[0029] Furthermore, the seventh slider 39 is connected to the overflow container 40. If the number of coins 10 stored in the coin hopper exceeds a predetermined amount, a malfunction may occur. Therefore, if the number of coins 10 stored in the coin hopper exceeds a predetermined amount, the storage of coins 10 into the coin hopper is stopped. When the storage of coins 10 into the coin hopper is stopped, the coins 10 that are not stored are stored in the overflow container 40. The overflow container 40 may be a coin hopper, or it may be a storage container that does not have a function to discharge coins.

[0030] The eighth slider 41 guides the coins 10 onto the discharge belt 42. Coins 10 whose denomination cannot be identified or unusable coins 10 are guided onto the discharge belt 42 and discharged into the tray 3 via the dispensing port 4. The sorting unit 9 drives the discharge belt 42 to transport the coins 10 discharged from each coin hopper to the tray 3. In this way, the coins 10 placed in the input port 2 can be reused as coins 10 for dispensing.

[0031] Next, the main parts of the coin processing device 1 will be described. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the main parts of the coin processing device.

[0032] In the separation unit 6, the inserted coins 10 are temporarily stored in the storage container 12. The stored coins 10 are transported one by one by the disk 15. The disk 15 rotates counterclockwise. When the coins 10 are transported to the position of the transfer unit 7, the lever 54 operates and pushes the coins 10 toward the identification unit 8. The pushed-out coins 10 pass through the transfer unit 7 and enter between the receiving bodies of the wheel 21. The wheel 21 rotates clockwise.

[0033] Figure 3 shows the sensor cover 53, which covers the identification unit 8, in an open state. In normal use, the sensor cover 53 is closed so as to cover the wheel 21.

[0034] In the identification unit 8, the wheel 21 moves the coins 10 one by one on the holding base 13. Below the identification unit 8, a guide unit 18 is located. The guide unit 18 is part of a guide wall located on the outside of the outer circumference of the wheel 21. The guide unit 18 is arranged in a straight line to detect the coins 10 under certain conditions. The coins 10 slide along the guide unit 18, pushed by the wheel 21 on the holding base 13. Because the holding base 13 is inclined with respect to the horizontal, gravity exerts a downward force on the coins 10 along the holding base 13. The circumferential surface of the coins 10 is in contact with the guide wall, and either the front or back surface is in contact with the holding base 13. After passing the lowest point, the wheel 21 transports the coins 10 upward against gravity. The coins 10 are transported while in contact with the guide unit 18. The circumferential surface of the coins 10 slides or rolls while in contact with the guide unit 18. The coin 10 can be allowed to pass through the detection area of ​​the identification sensor 19 under certain conditions.

[0035] The coins 10, whose denomination has been identified by the identification sensor 19, pass through the transfer slot 50 and are transferred from the identification unit 8 to the sorting unit 9.

[0036] The transfer opening 50 is a through-hole that penetrates both the front and back of the holding base 13. Behind the transfer opening 50 are the transport path 51 and rail 25 of the sorting unit 9. The transport path 51 and rail 25 are guide paths for the coins 10. The coins 10 are pushed by the wheel 21 and dropped into the transfer opening 50. The coins 10 pass through the transfer opening 50 and reach the transport path 51 and rail 25. In other words, the part facing the transfer opening 50 is the coin transfer area of ​​the sorting unit 9.

[0037] The transport path 51 is positioned at an inclination with respect to the horizontal direction. It is inclined at an angle of approximately 45 degrees. To facilitate the transfer of the coins 10 from the identification 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 plus or minus 10 degrees. The coins 10 lean against the rail 25 with their outer circumferential surfaces (sides) in contact with the rail 25 and their front or back surfaces in contact with the transport path 51, and are pushed by the transport pin rollers 23 to move along the transport path 51 and the rail 25. The coins 10 slide while leaning against the inclined surface of the transport path 51 as they are pushed by the transport pin rollers 23, and also roll or slide on the rail 25. The transport pin rollers 23 can also be described as pushing bodies that contact and push the coins 10. In other words, the coin 10 is supported by a support system with the transport path 51 as the first support and the rail 25 as the second support, and is transported by being pushed by a pusher. The components that make up the passage for transporting the coin 10, such as the transport belt 24, transport pin rollers 23, transport path 51, and rail 25, and the drive mechanism are covered by the transport path cover 52 and the front cover 55. Also, since the identification unit 8 is located above the transport path 51, the transfer area where the coin 10 is transferred from the identification unit 8 to the sorting unit 9 is not covered by the front cover 55.

[0038] The transport path 51 and the rail 25 are separated, and the transport pin roller 23 passes between them. The transport belt 24, on which the transport pin roller 23 is mounted, is wrapped around two pulleys (not shown). The pulleys are equipped with flanges 45. The flanges 45 narrow the passage for the transport pin roller 23, preventing the handed coins 10 from entering the passage.

[0039] Figure 4 is a top view of the main part of the coin processing device. Figure 4 shows the sensor cover 53 in the closed position and the front cover 55 (see Figure 3) removed, viewed from above. In explaining Figure 4, refer to the configuration in Figure 2.

[0040] The separation unit 6 separates the coins 10 accumulated in the storage container 12 one by one and passes the separated coins 10 to the identification unit 8. The identification unit 8 identifies the denomination of the coins 10 and passes them one by one to the sorting unit 9.

[0041] In the sorting section 9, the coin 10 is pushed along the rail 25 by the transport pin roller 23. The first sorting gate 56, the second sorting gate 57, and the third sorting gate 58 are arranged along the rail 25. The first sorting gate 56 can maintain one of three positions: a first position that allows the coin 10 to pass through, a second position that moves the coin 10 to the first slider 27, or a third position that moves the coin 10 to the fourth slider 33. The first sorting gate 56 is transitioned to one of the first, second, or third positions by a drive unit described later. The second sorting gate 57 and the third sorting gate 58 are in one of three positions, similar to the first sorting gate 56. The second distribution gate 57 can guide coin 10 to the second slider 29 and the fifth slider 35, and the third distribution gate 58 can guide coin 10 to the third slider 31 and the sixth slider 37. With this configuration, coin 10 is guided to one of several paths.

[0042] The first coin hopper 28, the second coin hopper 30, and the third coin hopper 32 are arranged in a line along the rail 25, and the fourth coin hopper 34, the fifth coin hopper 36, and the sixth coin hopper 38 are also arranged in a line along the rail 25.

[0043] The seventh slider 39 is positioned at the end of the rail 25 in the direction of coin transport, and guides the coins 10 that have passed through the first sorting gate 56, the second sorting gate 57, and the third sorting gate 58 to the overflow container 40. The end of the rail 25 is curved when viewed from above, and the seventh slider 39 is positioned on the curved portion. This allows the coins 10 to be guided to the overflow container 40 without the need for sorting gates.

[0044] A transport path 51 is provided in the transport path cover 52. The transport path 51 is an inclined surface provided on the rail 25 side of the transport path cover 52. The front or back surface of the coin 10 comes into contact with the transport path 51. The coin 10 slides along the transport path 51. A predetermined gap is provided between the lower edge of the transport path 51 and the rail 25. The transport pin roller 23 protrudes outward from this gap. That is, the rail 25 is arranged along the lower edge of the transport path 51. The area between the lower edge of the transport path 51 and the upper edge on the opposite side is an inclined surface. The surface of the coin 10 comes into contact with the inclined surface, and the coin 10 leans against it as it is transported. The transport pin roller 23 moves between the transport path 51 and the rail 25. The coin 10 is pushed and moved by the transport pin roller 23. The denomination of the coins 10 is identified, and the sorting unit 9 determines the path for each denomination, and the coins are stored in the coin hopper.

[0045] Next, the distribution unit 9 of the coin processing device 1 will be explained using a cross-sectional view including the second distribution gate 57. Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the distribution unit of the coin processing device. Figure 2 will also be referred to as needed during the explanation. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view at the location of the second distribution gate 57, and the explanation will use the second distribution gate 57 as an example, but the other distribution gates have a similar configuration.

[0046] The transport path 51 provided in the transport path cover 52 is inclined with respect to the horizontal. For example, the transport path 51 is inclined at a 45-degree angle. Coins 10 leaning against the transport path 51 are transported by transport pin rollers 23 fixed to the transport belt 24. The transport belt 24 is wrapped around a driven pulley 62 and a drive pulley (not shown). The front cover 55 is positioned opposite the transport path 51 to prevent the coins 10 from deviating from the transport path. In addition, the top of the sorting gate 63 is positioned flush with the rail 25 and constitutes part of the transport path for the coins 10.

[0047] The transport pin roller 23 protrudes 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 roller 23 is positioned diagonally upward at a 45-degree angle from that surface. The transport path 51 is inclined at a 45-degree angle to the horizontal direction. The axis of rotation of the transport pin roller 23 is approximately perpendicular to the transport path 51. The axis of rotation of the transport pin roller 23 is aligned with the thickness direction of the coin 10. When the transport pin roller 23 pushes the coin 10, if a force other than that along the transport path 51 or the rail 25 is applied, the transport pin roller 23 rotates. By rotating the transport pin roller 23, the excess force is released, and the coin 10 is directed in the transport direction.

[0048] The second distribution gate 57 can move in the direction of the first movement direction 60 or the second movement direction 61, indicated by the arrows in the figure, with the distribution gate axis 59 as the center of rotation. The orientation of the second distribution gate 57 can be switched using a drive mechanism described later.

[0049] When the second distribution gate 57 is in a first position where the surface of the rail 25 that is in contact with the side of the coin 10 and the top of the distribution gate 63 are flush, that is, when the second distribution gate 57 maintains the first orientation, the coin 10 passes through the second distribution gate 57.

[0050] When the second distribution gate 57 is driven in the direction of the first movement direction 60 and is in the second position, that is, when the second distribution gate 57 maintains the second posture, the rail 25 is disconnected 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 the second slider 29 and is guided to the second coin hopper 30 (Figure 2).

[0051] When the second distribution gate 57 is driven in the direction of the second movement direction 61 and is in the third position, that is, when the second distribution gate 57 maintains the third posture, the rail 25 is disconnected 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 the fifth slider 35 and is guided to the fifth coin hopper 36 (Figure 2).

[0052] In this manner, the second distribution gate 57 can be oscillated around the distribution gate shaft 59 as the center of rotation. By switching the position of the top portion 63 of the distribution gate, the coins 10 can be guided in three directions. The other first distribution gate 56 and third distribution gate 58 can similarly guide the coins 10 in three directions. The distribution unit 9 can switch the orientation of the three distribution gates based on the denomination of the coins 10 identified by the identification unit 8, and store the coins 10 in the coin hopper corresponding to the denomination.

[0053] Next, the drive mechanism of the distribution gate will be explained using Figures 6 to 8, with the second distribution gate 57 as an example. Figure 6 is the first diagram illustrating the drive mechanism of the distribution gate. Figure 7 is the second diagram illustrating the drive mechanism of the distribution gate. Figure 8 is the third diagram illustrating the drive mechanism of the distribution gate.

[0054] The second distribution gate 57 is driven by an actuator. The actuator is, for example, a solenoid or a motor. The second distribution gate 57 is driven by a first solenoid 70 and a second solenoid 71. If neither the first solenoid 70 nor the second solenoid 71 is driven, the second distribution gate 57 transitions to a first position where the coin 10 passes through the second distribution gate 57. If only the first solenoid 70 is driven, the second distribution gate 57 transitions to a second position 84, indicated by the dashed line, where the coin 10 slides down in the direction of the second slider 29 (see Figure 5). That is, the second distribution gate 57 rotates around the distribution gate axis 59 in the direction of the first movement direction 60. When only the second solenoid 71 is driven, the second distribution gate 57 transitions to a third position 85, indicated by the dashed line, in which the coin 10 slides down in the direction of the fifth slider 35 (see Figure 5). That is, the second distribution gate 57 rotates around the distribution gate shaft 59 in the direction of the second movement direction 61. The shaft support 86 pivotally supports the distribution gate shaft 59.

[0055] The gate slider 72 slides on the sliding surface 78 of the frame 77. The tip of the first plunger 73 of the first solenoid 70 is fixed to one end of the gate slider 72, and the tip of the second plunger 75 of the second solenoid 71 is fixed to the other end. When not driven, the first plunger 73 is extended by the first spring 74. When not driven, the second plunger 75 is extended by the second spring 76. When the first solenoid 70 and the second solenoid 71 are not driven, the gate slider 72 is pushed by the first spring 74 and the second spring 76, and is moved to the center position on the sliding surface 78. At this time, the second distribution gate 57 is in the first position.

[0056] The gate slider 72 moves by driving or stopping the first solenoid 70 or the second solenoid 71, but it vibrates from the start to the end of its movement due to the influence of the first spring 74 and the second spring 76, and it may take a long time for the vibration to subside. By shortening the vibration subsidence time, the operating time of the gate slider 72 and the second distribution gate 57 can be shortened. The brake mechanism 46 is a braking means that can suitably apply a load to the movement of the gate slider 72, dampen vibrations, and shorten the vibration subsidence time. In particular, when the current to the first solenoid 70 or the second solenoid 71 is interrupted and the second distribution gate 57 is transitioned from the second or third position to the first position, the gate slider 72 is greatly affected by the first spring 74 and the second spring 76, resulting in vibrations with large amplitude and long subsidence times. In such cases, the brake mechanism 46 is effective.

[0057] The brake mechanism 46 will now be described. The gate slider 72 has an inclined surface 79, which is a surface inclined with respect to the direction of movement, for example, a recess with a curved surface. An arc-shaped inclined surface 79 is provided approximately in the center of the direction of movement of the gate slider 72, and a ball 83 is placed on this inclined surface 79. The inclined surface 79 may be a surface having a straight surface, a curved surface, or both. The stopper 80 restricts the movement of the ball 83. The directions in which the stopper 80 restricts the movement of the ball 83 are the direction of movement of the gate slider 72 and the vertical direction. The stopper 80 is fixed in position and does not move even when the gate slider 72 moves. The stopper 80 restricts the ball 83 from coming out from the vertical direction. The stopper 80 is a cylindrical body with an inner wall 82, which houses the ball 83 and is fixed to the frame 77 by a fixing member 81. The stopper 80 has a reduced diameter at the top of its inner wall 82 to prevent the ball 83 from slipping out from the top, and allows the ball 83 to move vertically within a predetermined range. The gate slider 72 is pushed by the ball 83 which is in contact with the inclined surface 79. The ball 83's movement other than vertical movement is restricted by the stopper 80.

[0058] The gate slider 72 receives a force from the vertically moving ball 83 that is divided into a force in the direction of movement and a force perpendicular to it, depending on the inclination of the inclined surface 79. If the inclined surface 79 is curved, the ratio of the force divided into the direction of movement and the direction perpendicular to it differs depending on the position of the ball 83. If the inclined surface 79 is straight, the ratio of the force divided is constant and is not affected by the position of the ball 83. When the ball 83 is at the lowest position of the recess in the inclined surface 79, no force is distributed in the direction of movement of the gate slider 72, and in this case, the second distribution gate 57 is in the first position. The brake mechanism 46 acts a force on the gate slider 72 in a direction that moves the gate slider 72 so that the ball 83 is at the lowest position of the inclined surface 79. If the ball 83 is at the lowest position of the inclined surface 79, a force acts in a direction that keeps it in that position. Furthermore, when the second distribution gate 57 transitions from the second or third posture to the first posture, a force from the ball 83 acts from the position of the gate slider 72 corresponding to the second or third posture toward the position of the gate slider 72 corresponding to the first posture. In addition, the gate slider 72 is subjected to a vertical force from the ball 83, and the frictional force between it and the sliding surface 78 increases in proportion to the applied force. The gate slider 72 receives forces from the ball 83 in the opposite direction to the direction of movement and in a vertical direction. .

[0059] The ball 83 is spherical, which reduces the frictional force generated during movement. When moving the gate slider 72, the force acting directly between the ball 83 and the gate slider 72 is minute, making it easy to manage the load on the ball 83. Because the frictional force between the ball 83 and the gate slider 72 is small, this force has little effect on the frictional force with the sliding surface 78 in the direction of movement of the gate slider 72. Therefore, problems such as the gate slider 72 stopping midway due to friction can be prevented.

[0060] The second distribution gate 57 is engaged with the gate slider 72 and rotates around the distribution gate axis 59 in the direction of the first movement direction 60 or the second movement direction 61 in accordance with the movement of the gate slider 72.

[0061] Next, we will explain the case where the second distribution gate 57 is moved to the second position using Figure 7.

[0062] When current is applied to the first solenoid 70 and it is driven, the first plunger 73 retracts and compresses the first spring 74. At this time, the gate slider 72 slides toward the first solenoid 70, the second plunger 75 protrudes, and the second spring 76 extends. The ball 83 rolls along the slope of the inclined surface 79, moves upward through the stopper 80, and stops at the first corner portion 89, which is the edge of the inclined surface 79. The gate slider 72 is provided with an elongated hole 88, which engages with a protrusion 87 provided on the second distribution gate 57.

[0063] When the gate slider 72 moves in the direction of the first solenoid 70, the protrusion 87 also moves in the direction of the first solenoid 70. As the protrusion 87 moves in the direction of the first solenoid 70 relative to the position of the pivot 86, the second distribution gate 57 rotates in the direction of the first movement direction 60 around the distribution gate axis 59 and moves to the second orientation position.

[0064] When the current to the first solenoid 70 is interrupted and the drive is released, a force acts on the gate slider 72 in the direction that the first spring 74 extends and the second spring 76 compresses. The ball 83 moves downward along the inclined surface from the first corner 89, and the gate slider 72 is pushed by the ball 83 accordingly. The second distribution gate 57 returns to its first position due to the action of the first spring 74 and the second spring 76, as well as the action of the brake mechanism 46. The gate slider 72 vibrates in the direction of the first solenoid 70 and the second solenoid 71 around the position corresponding to the first position of the second distribution gate 57, and the vibration is dampened by the brake mechanism 46, so the vibration subsides over time and eventually stops. If there is no brake mechanism 46 to dampen the movement of the gate slider 72, it will take a long time for the second distribution gate 57 to return to its first position. The braking mechanism 46 can shorten the time it takes for the second distribution gate 57 to complete the transition from the second attitude position to the first attitude position.

[0065] Next, we will explain the case where the second distribution gate 57 is moved to the position of the third orientation using Figure 8.

[0066] When current is applied to the second solenoid 71 and it is driven, the second plunger 75 retracts and compresses the second spring 76. At this time, the gate slider 72 slides in the direction of the second solenoid 71, the first plunger 73 protrudes, and the first spring 74 extends. The ball 83 rolls along the slope of the inclined surface 79, moves upward through the stopper 80, and stops at the second corner section 90, which is the edge of the inclined surface 79.

[0067] When the gate slider 72 moves in the direction of the second solenoid 71, the protrusion 87 (see Figure 7) also moves in the direction of the second solenoid 71. As the protrusion 87 (see Figure 7) moves in the direction of the second solenoid 71 relative to the position of the pivot 86, the second distribution gate 57 rotates in the direction of the second movement direction 61 around the distribution gate axis 59 and moves to the third orientation position.

[0068] When the current to the second solenoid 71 is interrupted and the drive is released, a force acts on the gate slider 72 in the direction that the second spring 76 extends and the first spring 74 compresses. The ball 83 moves downward along the inclined surface from the second corner 90, and the gate slider 72 is pushed by the ball 83 accordingly. The second distribution gate 57 returns to its first position due to the action of the first spring 74 and the second spring 76, as well as the action of the brake mechanism 46. The gate slider 72 vibrates in the direction of the first solenoid 70 and the second solenoid 71 around the position corresponding to the first position of the second distribution gate 57, and the vibration is dampened by the brake mechanism 46, so the vibration subsides over time and eventually stops. If there is no brake mechanism 46 to dampen the movement of the gate slider 72, it will take a long time for the second distribution gate 57 to return to its first position. The braking mechanism 46 can shorten the time it takes for the second distribution gate 57 to complete the transition from the third attitude position to the first attitude position.

[0069] Another example of the brake mechanism 46 will be explained using Figure 9. Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating another example of the drive mechanism for the distribution gate.

[0070] The stopper 80 is provided with an elongated hole 91 that is perpendicular to the direction of movement of the gate slider 72. A pressing roller 92 is positioned inside the stopper 80, and a rotating shaft 93 is pivotally supported in the elongated hole 91. The pressing roller 92 rotates along the inclined surface of the inclined portion 79 of the gate slider 72 in accordance with the movement of the gate slider 72. The pressing roller 92, which presses the gate slider 72, has a small frictional force with the gate slider 72, and therefore functions similarly to the ball 83 described in Figure 6, etc.

[0071] Alternatively, the pressure roller 92 may be supported not by its own weight, but by a spring-like mechanism attached to the fixing member 81, with the pressure roller rotatably supported at its tip, and the pressure roller 92 in contact with the inclined surface 79. Furthermore, instead of the pressure roller 92, a configuration in which a curved member is pressed against the gate slider 72 by a spring or the like is also conceivable. While this would not reduce the frictional force with the gate slider 72 as effectively as a roller or sphere, the frictional force can be reduced by curving the contact surface.

[0072] The braking mechanism 46 can also be described as a means of applying a force from a direction away from the center toward the center so that the gate slider 72 is positioned in the center of the sliding surface 78. This force is weaker than the force required to switch the posture of the second distribution gate 57, that is, it is less than the driving force of the first solenoid 70 and the second solenoid 71, and also weaker than the expansion and contraction forces of the first spring 74 and the second spring 76. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0073] 1. Coin processing device 2 Inlet 3 trays 4 Withdrawal port 5 Display device 6 Separation part 7 Delivery Department 8 Identification section 9 Sorting section 10 coins 11 Coin Passage 12 Storage containers 13 Retaining base 14. Disk rotation axis 15 discs 16 recesses 17. Disk rotation direction 18 Information Department 19 Identification Sensor 20 Wheel rotation axis 21 wheels 22 Wheel rotation direction 23 Conveyor pin rollers 24 Conveyor belts 25 rails 26 Conveyor belt rotation direction 27. First slider 28. First Coin Hopper 29. Second slider 30. Second Coin Hopper 31. Third slider 32. Third Coin Hopper 33. Fourth slider 34. 4th Coin Hopper 35. Fifth slider 36. 5th Coin Hopper 37. Sixth slider 38. 6th Coin Hopper 39. 7th Slider 40 Overflow containers 41. 8th Slider 42. Discharge belt 43 coins 44 coins 45 Guard section 46 Brake mechanism 50 Delivery port 51 Conveyor path 52 Conveyor path cover 53 Sensor cover 54 Lever 55 Front Cover 56 First Distribution Gate 57 Second Distribution Gate 58 Third Distribution Gate 59 Distribution gate shaft 60 First direction of movement 61 Second direction of movement 62 Driven pulley 63 Distribution Gate Top 70 First Solenoid 71. Second solenoid 72 Gate Slider 73. First Plunger 74 First spring 75. Second Plunger 76. Second spring 77 frames 78 Sliding surface 79 Slope 80 Stopper 81 Fixing member 82 Inner wall 83 Ball 84. Second Stance 85. The Third Stance 86 Axial branch 87 Convex part 88 long hole 89 First Corner 90 Second corner 91 long hole 92 Pressure rollers

Claims

1. A sorting gate is positioned in the coin transport path and switches the direction of transport of the coins, An actuator that changes the orientation of the aforementioned distribution gate, A coin processing device having a mechanism that changes the orientation of the sorting gate according to the denomination of the deposited coins, and switches the direction of transport of the coins according to the denomination, The orientation of the distribution gate has at least a first orientation and a second orientation. A coin processing device characterized by having a braking means that biases the distribution gate in a direction to maintain it in the first position when the distribution gate is transitioned from the first position to the second position by the actuator, and biases the distribution gate in a direction to move it to the first position when the distribution gate is transitioned from the second position to the first position by the actuator.

2. The coin processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a spring that changes the orientation of the distribution gate together with the actuator, wherein the braking means dampens vibrations of the distribution gate caused by the spring.

3. The orientation of the distribution gate further has a third orientation, The distribution gate is capable of transitions between the first and second attitudes, and between the first and third attitudes, with the transition between the second and third attitudes occurring via the first attitude. The coin processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that when the actuator causes the distribution gate to transition from the first position to the third position, the braking means biases the distribution gate in a direction to maintain it in the first position, and when the actuator causes the distribution gate to transition from the third position to the first position, the braking means biases the distribution gate in a direction to move it to the first position.

4. The distribution gate is connected to a gate slider driven by the actuator, The actuator allows the gate slider to transition between a position corresponding to the first orientation of the distribution gate, a position corresponding to the second orientation, and a position corresponding to the third orientation, and the orientation of the distribution gate changes according to the position of the moving gate slider. The coin processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the braking means comprises a conversion mechanism that decomposes a force acting in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the gate slider into a force acting in the direction of movement and a force acting in the direction perpendicular to the direction of movement, and the conversion mechanism is characterized in that the force acting in the direction of movement is minimized when the distribution gate is in the first position.

5. The braking means is, A weight that moves in a direction perpendicular to the aforementioned direction of movement, The gate slider has a surface that is inclined with respect to the direction of movement, The weight contacts the inclined surface, When the distribution gate is in the first position, the weight contacts the lowest position of the inclined surface, When the distribution gate is in the second position, the weight contacts the uppermost position of the inclined surface, The coin processing device according to claim 4, characterized in that the weight moves while in contact with the lowest and highest positions of the inclined surface, and applies a force to the gate slider in the direction of movement.

6. The distribution gate is connected to a gate slider driven by the actuator, The actuator allows the gate slider to transition between a position corresponding to the first orientation of the distribution gate and a position corresponding to the second orientation, and the orientation of the distribution gate changes according to the position of the moving gate slider. The braking means comprises a conversion mechanism that decomposes a force acting in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the gate slider into a force acting in the direction of movement and a force acting in the direction perpendicular to the direction of movement, wherein the conversion mechanism minimizes the force acting in the direction of movement when the distribution gate is in the first position, as described in claim 1 or 2.

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