Coin hopper and coin processing device

Abstract

To prevent a portion of a rotor abutting a coin from being damaged, the rotor inserting coins stored in a container into a separation hole one by one and pushing and conveying the coin.SOLUTION: A rotor includes a metal rotor 32, a first resin rotor, and a second resin rotor 21. The metal rotor 32 is fixed so as to be interposed between the first resin rotor and the second resin rotor 21. The metal rotor 32 includes pushing pieces 40 each having an arm partly bent and pushing a coin. The pushing piece 40 of the metal rotor 32 protrudes from a pushing piece hole 23 provided in the second resin rotor 21 so as to push a coin on a base. The arm has a third through-hole 38 for engagement with a positioning protrusion 28 protruding from the second resin rotor 21. The metal rotor 32 engages with the positioning protrusions 28 to reduce a behavior such as a displacement of the metal rotor due to a force applied to the pushing pieces 40 when the coin is pushed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a coin hopper that discharges coins one by one, a rotating body used in the coin hopper, and a coin processing device including the coin hopper.

Background Art

[0002] A coin hopper that includes a container for storing a plurality of coins and discharges the coins stored in the container one by one is known.

[0003] For example, the coin hopper described in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2022-48988 includes a container that holds a large number of coins and a payout means that discharges the coins in the container one by one. An opening is provided at the bottom of the container. A rotating body is disposed on the upper surface of the payout means so as to face the opening. The rotating body is provided with a plurality of separation holes into which coins enter. The coins that enter the separation holes of the rotating body are held on a flat base that faces and is spaced apart from the back surface of the rotating body. Further, a pushing piece that pushes the coin is provided on the side surface of the separation hole. As the rotating body rotates, the coin is pushed by the pushing piece and moves on the base. The coin that has moved to a predetermined position on the base is redirected by the pin of the payout means and discharged from the payout opening. Further, as the rotating body rotates, the coins in the container are agitated.

[0004] The pushing piece abuts against the coin that has entered the separation hole and pushes and conveys the coin in the moving direction as the rotating body rotates. The pushing piece is made of metal in order to reduce wear and damage caused by contact with the coin.

[0005] Further, a coin processing device equipped with such a coin hopper is known. The coin processing device includes a plurality of coin hoppers, stores coins in the coin hoppers for each denomination, and can control the coin hoppers to payout coins of a desired amount. For example, coin processing devices such as automatic change machines and money changers are known. An automatic change machine stores the inserted coins for each denomination and discharges the coins based on the amount of change. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-48988 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] Conventional rotating bodies consist of a metal rotating body sandwiched between two resin rotating bodies. The pressing piece is formed by bending a part of the metal rotating body. The contact surface of the pressing piece with the coin is flat. The coin is pressed against the contact surface and moves along it. As the rotating body rotates, the coin gradually moves outward. The coin gradually moves outward while rubbing against the surface of the pressing piece. The pressing piece pushes the coin outward, preventing it from moving in the rotational direction by the pin. Therefore, it is desirable for the component of the force acting on the coin in the outward direction by the pressing piece to be large. Also, since a strong force is applied to the contact surface with the coin, the rotating body needs to have rigidity and durability to prevent bending.

[0008] There was a need for a coin hopper equipped with a highly rigid rotating body that could improve the durability of the rotating body that contacts the coins, while also allowing the coins to move smoothly. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The coin hopper of the present invention comprises a container for storing coins, a base for supporting the coins, and a rotating body having a plurality of separation holes for holding the coins one by one, positioned opposite the base, and having a metal rotating body equipped with a metal pushing piece for pushing the coins between a first resin rotating body and a second resin rotating body, wherein the separation holes penetrate the rotating body so that the coins can pass through both sides of the rotating body, and by rotating the rotating body, the coins that have entered the separation holes are pushed, moved in the outer direction of the rotating body, and discharged, wherein the metal rotating body has arm portions that extend radially from the rotation center of the rotating body and are positioned between the separation holes, and the arm portions protrude from the surface and are between the rotation center and the tip of the arm portion The rotating body has a protrusion positioned between adjacent separation holes, a pushing piece formed by bending the end of the arm portion, and a through hole positioned between the protrusion and the pushing piece. The first resin rotating body or the second resin rotating body has a projection protruding from its surface at a position corresponding to the through hole. The rotating body is fixed with the metal rotating body in between, and the engaging portions of the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body are engaged, so that the pushing piece is exposed from the second resin rotating body toward the base and the projection is inserted through the through hole. The coin, which is placed in the separation hole and supported by the base, is pushed by the pushing piece and slides on the base. In another embodiment of the coin hopper, a coin hopper comprises a container for storing coins, a base for supporting the coins, and a rotating body having a plurality of separation holes for holding the coins one by one, positioned opposite the base, and having a metal rotating body positioned between a first resin rotating body and a second resin rotating body, the rotating body pushes the coins that have entered the separation holes, moves them in the outer circumferential direction of the rotating body, and discharges them. In this coin hopper, the downstream end in the direction of rotation of the metal rotating body is bent in the thickness direction of the metal rotating body, and has a groove on the extension of the bent portion, and the pushing piece includes a portion that protrudes along the groove of the portion bent at the bent portion, and the protruding portion intersects with respect to the bending direction. The first resin rotating body or the second resin rotating body has a wall portion that contacts the side surface of the metal rotating body, and the rotating body is fixed with the metal rotating body in between, with the metal rotating body sandwiched between them, and the engaging portions of the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body engaging with each other, so that the pushing piece is exposed from the second resin rotating body toward the base and the pushing piece is positioned between adjacent separation holes, and the coin supported by the base and placed in the separation hole is pushed by the pushing piece and slides on the base. Another embodiment of a coin hopper includes a container for storing coins, a base for supporting the coins, a rotating body having a plurality of separation holes for holding the coins one by one, positioned opposite the base, and having a metal rotating body with a metal pushing piece for pushing the coins between a first resin rotating body and a second resin rotating body, and a control projection positioned in the transport path of the coins held by the rotating body, which contacts the transported coins and changes the direction of movement of the coins, and transports the coins stored in the container over the base while holding them in the separation holes, causing the coins to contact the control projection and changing the direction of movement of the transported coins. The coin hopper for discharging the coins to the outside comprises, the metal rotating body having arm portions arranged radially from the rotation center of the rotating body, convex portions protruding from the surface of the arm portions and positioned between the rotation center and the tip of the arm portion and between adjacent separation holes of the rotating body, and a pushing piece formed by bending the end of the arm portion, the second resin rotating body being positioned opposite the base, the metal rotating body being sandwiched between the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body, the pushing piece being exposed from the second resin rotating body toward the base and the convex portion being housed between the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body.

[0010] The coin processing device of the present invention comprises a coin hopper as described above, and a coin receiving unit that receives and collects the coins discharged from the coin hopper, wherein a plurality of coin hoppers are arranged, and the coin receiving unit receives the coins discharged from each of the coin hoppers.

[0011] The rotating body of the coin hopper of the present invention is characterized by being a rotating body used in the coin hopper described above. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present invention, the durability of the rotating body and coin hopper can be improved, and their rigidity can be increased, allowing for smoother movement of coins in the coin hopper. Furthermore, a coin processing device equipped with the coin hopper of the present invention can reduce or prevent coin dispensing failures. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the coin hopper. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a solid of revolution. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the second resin rotating body that constitutes the rotating body. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the metal rotating body that constitutes the rotating body. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the second resin rotating body and the metal rotating body combined. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the rotating body from the back side. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the first resin rotating body as seen from the back side. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a perspective view of the rotating body from the back side, with the second resin rotating body removed. [Figure 9] Figure 9 illustrates the operation of the coin hopper. Figure 9(a) shows the first state of the coin hopper, Figure 9(b) shows the second state of the coin hopper, Figure 9(c) shows the third state of the coin hopper, and Figure 9(d) shows the fourth state of the coin hopper. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a coin processing device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Each figure only schematically shows the invention to an extent that it can be fully understood. Therefore, the present invention is not limited only to the illustrated examples. Also, in each figure, common components and similar components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0015] First, the coin hopper will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the coin hopper. The coin 10 is a coin, medal, token, etc. Also, the coin 10 is a circular or polygonal metal plate.

[0016] The coin hopper 1 includes a container 2 for storing the coins 10 and a main body 3 for separating and dispensing the coins 10 one by one. The container 2 can be attached to and detached from the main body 3. A guide portion 8, which is a substantially circular opening, is provided at the lower part of the container 2. A rotating body 5 is arranged at the upper part of the main body 3. The guide portion 8 is arranged along the outer periphery of the rotating body 5 and guides the coins 10 so that they accumulate on the rotating body 5.

[0017] The rotating body 5 is provided with a plurality of separation holes 6. The separation holes 6 are through holes that penetrate the front and back of the rotating body 5. The base 7 has a flat surface, and the rotating body 5 is rotatably arranged at a position facing the flat surface of the base 7. The flat surface of the base 7 and the rotating body 5 are separated by a predetermined interval into which a coin 10 cannot enter. The coin 10 enters the separation hole 6 and is held on the base 7. As the rotating body 5 rotates, the coin 10 is pushed by the rotating body 5 and slides on the base 7. The rotating body 5 is provided with a groove through which the coin 10 can pass between the outer periphery and the separation hole 6. At a predetermined position of the base 7, there is provided a control projection (to be described later) that prevents the movement of the coin 10 conveyed by the rotating body 5. The control projection protrudes from the surface of the base 7. For example, the control projection is a control pin such as a pin or a control plate such as a plate. The control projection prevents the coin 10 from moving in the rotational direction, changes the moving direction of the coin 10, and guides the coin 10 in the outer peripheral direction. The coin 10 that abuts against the control projection changes its path in the direction of the payout port 4, passes through the groove provided between the separation hole 6 and the outer periphery of the rotating body 5, and is discharged from the payout port 4 in the discharge direction. When the coin 10 held by the rotating body 5 is conveyed to a predetermined position, it is guided in the direction of the payout port 4 by the control projection.

[0018] On the upper part of the main body 3, there is provided a flat base 7, and the rotating body 5 rotates above it. Along the outer periphery of the rotating body 5, the guide portion 8 of the container 2 is arranged. The base 7 is inclined with respect to the horizontal direction such that the payout port 4 is high and the opposite side is low. Since the base 7 is inclined, the coins 10 gather on the lower side of the container 2. As the rotating body 5 passes under the accumulated coins 10, the coins 10 enter the separation hole 6. The coins 10 are conveyed by the rotating body 5.

[0019] Thus, the coin hopper 1 uses a rotating body 5 equipped with separation holes 6, and by rotating the rotating body 5, the coins 10 in the container 2 are placed one by one into the separation holes 6 and discharged from the outlet 4. For example, if the rotating body 5 wears out or deforms and a coin 10 gets stuck between the base 7 and the rotating body 5, the coin hopper 1 will experience poor transport of the coins 10, and in the worst case, the coin hopper 1 may be damaged. The coin hopper 1 can transport the coins 10 effectively by using a rotating body 5 that prevents or reduces wear and deformation.

[0020] Furthermore, each coin 10 differs in size, material, design, and other elements for each denomination. The coin processing device is equipped with a coin hopper 1 for each denomination at a predetermined location. For this purpose, the coin hopper 1 is equipped with identification holes 9 corresponding to the denomination. The coin processing device has protrusions corresponding to the identification holes 9 positioned at predetermined locations. The coin hopper 1 equipped with the corresponding identification holes 9 is set in the predetermined location of the coin processing device. The identification holes 9 and the corresponding protrusions can prevent incorrect installation of the coin hopper 1. The position and shape of the identification holes 9 and the corresponding protrusions can be changed.

[0021] The main body 3 contains a motor (not shown) and a control circuit (not shown) for driving the rotating body 5. The motor and the rotating body 5 are connected by a transmission mechanism comprising gears and a rotating shaft (not shown). The motor rotates under the control of the control circuit, driving the rotating body 5 connected to the motor. The rotating shaft passes through a through hole in the base 7, and the rotating body 5 is fixed to the rotating shaft protruding from the base 7.

[0022] Next, the rotating body 5 will be explained using Figure 2. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the rotating body. The upper side of the rotating body 5 is a first resin rotating body 20 made of a resin such as plastic. The back side of the rotating body 5 is a second resin rotating body 21 made of a resin such as plastic. The rotating body 5 is provided with three separation holes 6 that penetrate through both the front and back sides of the rotating body 5. The rotating body 5 is provided with at least one separation hole 6. The maximum number of separation holes 6 that can be placed in the rotating body 5 is determined based on the size of the rotating body 5 and the size of the coin. The discharge groove 22 is located on the back side of the rotating body 5 and is a groove provided between the separation hole 6 and the outer circumference of the rotating body 5. The coin passes through the discharge groove 22 and is discharged to the outside of the rotating body 5 from the separation hole 6.

[0023] The materials of the first resin rotating body 20 and the second resin rotating body 21 are preferably engineering plastics in terms of strength, durability, processability, and weight. The first resin rotating body 20 and the second resin rotating body 21 are fixed together, with a metal rotating body, described later, sandwiched between them. The stirring projection 14 is a projection located on the surface side of the rotating body 5, that is, on the surface of the first resin rotating body 20. The stirring projection 14 stirs the accumulating coins. The stirring projection 14 also prevents the coins from remaining on the surface of the first resin rotating body 20. The shaft hole 11 is provided at the rotation center of the rotating body 5 and is a hole for positioning the rotating shaft.

[0024] The rotating body 5 experiences wear and damage due to contact with the coin. Therefore, to reduce or prevent wear, a portion of the rotating body 5 is made of metal. While it is possible to make the entire rotating body 5 out of metal, it is preferable to make a portion of the rotating body 5 out of resin such as plastic in order to lighten the rotating body 5. By making the parts of the rotating body 5 that experience heavy wear out of metal, the durability of the rotating body 5 can be increased. The part of the rotating body 5 that experiences heavy wear out is the part that pushes the coin that has entered the separation hole 6. The part that pushes the coin pushes the coin when the coin is in contact with the control pin 13 (see Figure 9), fixed roller 55 (see Figure 9), and movable roller 56 (see Figure 9), which will be described later. A force equivalent to the pushing force is applied as a reaction force to the part that pushes the coin. In particular, a large force is applied to the part that is in contact with the coin. Therefore, it is necessary to make the part that pushes the coin out of metal to improve its durability. The part that pushes the coin is located on the back side of the rotating body 5.

[0025] Next, we will explain using Figure 3. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the second resin rotating body that constitutes the rotating body.

[0026] At the center of the second resin rotating body 21, a shaft hole frame portion 31 is erected from the bottom surface portion 27 of the second resin rotating body 21, forming a shaft hole for inserting a rotating shaft. A frame portion 15 is formed on the outer circumference of the second resin rotating body 21, also erected from the bottom surface portion 27. The frame portion 15 has an ejection groove 22, which is a recess through which coins pass when they are ejected. A push pin hole 30 is provided in the thickened portion that protrudes inward from the frame portion 15, through which a push pin 42 (see Figure 6), described later, is inserted.

[0027] The bottom portion 27 is provided with a push-button hole 23 corresponding to the separation hole 6. The push-button 40 (see Figure 4) of the metal rotating body 32 (see Figure 4), which will be described later, is fitted into the push-button hole 23. The bottom portion 27 is provided with a first through-hole 29 along the frame portion 15. The hook 47 (see Figure 7) of the first resin rotating body 20, which will be described later, is inserted into the first through-hole 29 and catches on the second resin rotating body 21, fixing the second resin rotating body 21 and the first resin rotating body 20 (see Figure 6).

[0028] Positioning projections 28 are erected on the bottom surface 27, corresponding to the push-piece holes 23. The positioning projections 28 protrude from the flat surface of the second resin rotating body 21. Three positioning projections 28 are provided. Each positioning projection 28 fits into the corresponding third through-hole 38 (see Figure 4) of the metal rotating body 32 (see Figure 4), which will be described later, and the flat surface on which the positioning projection 28 is provided contacts the flat surface of the metal rotating body 32 (see Figure 4). The positioning projections 28 are projections that protrude from the bottom surface 27, and their tips are divided into multiple columnar bodies. The positioning projections 28 erected from the bottom surface 27 are provided with grooves 25, and their tip side is divided into multiple columnar parts 26. The tip of each positioning projection 28 is inserted into a hole in the first resin rotating body 20 (see Figure 7) and fixed in place. Since the column portion 26 is inserted into the hole in a bent state, the reaction force increases the frictional force, making it difficult for the column portion 26 to come out of the hole. The bottom surface portion 27 side of the positioning projection 28 does not have a groove portion 25 and forms a base portion 24. The inner circumference of the third through hole 38 (see Figure 4) contacts and fits onto the outer circumference of the base portion 24.

[0029] Next, we will explain using Figure 4. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the metal rotating body that constitutes the rotating body.

[0030] The metal rotating body 32 is provided with a second through hole 35 at its center of rotation and three arm portions 34 extending radially from the central part 33 of the metal rotating body 32. The metal rotating body 32 can be formed by processing a single metal plate. For example, the metal rotating body 32 can be easily made by cutting out the outer circumference and through hole portion from a flat metal plate using press working, and then bending the pushing piece 40 and the first rib 37 portion using press working. The metal rotating body 32 is a metal plate such as an iron alloy such as stainless steel or an aluminum alloy. Each arm portion 34 is provided with a first rib 37 to improve strength. The first rib 37 is a convex portion that protrudes in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape from the surface of the arm portion 34. The back side of the convex portion is recessed. In addition to deforming the metal rotating body, the convex portion may also be made by fixing another metal plate of a desired shape by welding or the like. Furthermore, the dimensions and shape of the first rib 37 may be changed. The first rib 37 is positioned approximately in the center of each arm portion 34 in the direction of rotation. It is positioned along a line extending from the center 33 of the metal rotating body 32 towards the tip. The first rib 37 extends in a direction intersecting the direction of rotation of the metal rotating body 32. The longitudinal direction of the first rib 37 is positioned at an angle of approximately 90 degrees to the direction of rotation. The first rib 37 resists forces in various directions, including the direction of rotation, applied to the arm portion 34, and prevents the arm portion 34 from bending. In addition, each arm portion 34 is provided with a stepped portion 36 on its side. The stepped portion 36 isolates each arm portion 34 and makes it difficult for forces to be transmitted to other arm portions 34. The arm portions 34 can be formed without the stepped portion 36, but it is preferable to have it. The stepped portion 36 also serves as a branching point separating the center 33 from the arm portion 34.

[0031] If the metal rotating body 32 moves inside the first resin rotating body 20 (see Figure 8) and the second resin rotating body 21 (see Figure 5), the inside of the first resin rotating body 20 (see Figure 8) and the second resin rotating body 21 (see Figure 5) will be damaged, and the damage will gradually worsen with each use, causing the metal rotating body 32 to become loose. The arm portion 34 on which the first rib 37 is located has high rigidity and is resistant to bending. The metal rotating body 32, which has multiple arm portions 34, has high rigidity, and bending is suppressed even if a strong force is applied when it comes into contact with a coin.

[0032] Each arm portion 34 is provided with a third through hole 38 at its tip. Each arm portion 34 is provided with a pushing piece 40 at its tip. The third through hole 38 is positioned upstream in the rotational direction of the pushing piece 40 on the same arm portion 34. The pushing piece 40 is formed by bending a projection provided at the tip of the arm portion 34 by approximately 90 degrees at the curved portion 39. There is a groove at the base of the projection, and the tip side of the pushing piece 40 is separated from the arm portion 34. The tip side of the projection separated from the arm portion 34 is curved towards the center 33 to form a curved portion 41. The curved portion 39 is the base of the projection and is the part bent from the end of the groove of the projection. The curved portion 39 is bent along the extension of the groove. The pushing piece 40 is provided with the curved portion 41. The pushing piece 40 is formed by bending the projection twice. The first curved section for forming the push piece 40 is the curved section 39, and the second curved section is the curved section 41. The shape of the curved section 41 can be changed by changing the position and amount of bending. Since the curved section 41 is separated from the main body of the arm section 34 by a groove, it can be bent independently of the arm section 34. Furthermore, by standardizing the basic parts of the metal rotating body 32 and changing only the shape of the push piece 40, it is possible to easily manufacture metal rotating bodies 32 with push pieces 40 that can accommodate coins 10 of various sizes. The end of the arm section 34 on which the push piece 40 is provided is the part including the edge of the arm section 34, and is not necessarily the tip. Also, the tip of the arm section 34 is the area of ​​approximately half of the arm section 34 on the tip side, including the tip. For example, this can be determined based on the distance from the rotation center of the metal rotating body 32 to the base and tip of the arm section 34.

[0033] Next, we will explain using Figure 5. Figure 5 is a perspective view of the second resin rotating body and the metal rotating body combined. It shows the metal rotating body 32 fitted into the second resin rotating body 21.

[0034] The shaft hole frame portion 31, which is erected from the bottom portion 27, fits into the second through hole 35, the respective position-fixing projections 28, which are erected from the bottom portion 27, fit into the third through hole 38, and the pushing piece 40 fits into the pushing piece hole 23 provided in the bottom portion 27, thereby fixing the metal rotating body 32 and the second resin rotating body 21. The second resin rotating body 21 and the metal rotating body 32 can be separated and joined. The pushing piece hole 23 is provided in the second resin rotating body 21 according to the shape of the pushing piece 40. If the shape of the pushing piece 40 changes, the shape of the pushing piece hole 23 also needs to be changed.

[0035] The side of the metal rotating body 32 opposite to the side with the first rib 37 is flat and rests on the flat bottom surface 27 of the second resin rotating body 21. Each arm portion 34 is positioned between adjacent separation holes 6. The metal rotating body 32 may have the protruding portion of the first rib 37 on both its front and back surfaces, or it may have the protruding portion on only one side. For example, if the protruding portion of the first rib 37 is provided on the side of the metal rotating body 32 facing the second resin rotating body 21, a recess is provided at the corresponding position on the second resin rotating body 21. The first rib 37 is sandwiched and housed between the second resin rotating body 21 and the first resin rotating body 20 (see Figure 8).

[0036] Next, let's explain Figure 6. Figure 6 is a perspective view of the rotating body as seen from the back side.

[0037] The rotating body 5 consists of a first resin rotating body 20 and a second resin rotating body 21, which are fixed together by hooks 47. The hooks 47 are positioned correspondingly between adjacent separation holes 6. In this example, there are three hooks 47. The position and shape of the hooks 47 may be changed. The arrangement of the hooks and the parts that engage with them may also be reversed. The first resin rotating body 20 and the second resin rotating body 21 can be separated and joined together. The rotating body 5 is easy to assemble, replace parts, and maintain.

[0038] When the bottom surfaces of the discharge groove 22 and the pin relief groove 46 are the back bottom surfaces of the second resin rotating body 21, the inner rib 43, the middle rib 44, and the outer rib 45 are erected from the back bottom surface. The back bottom surface is a flat surface.

[0039] The inner rib 43 is provided with a shaft hole 11 through which a rotating shaft passes. The middle rib 44 is provided with a push piece hole 23 at the base of the end of the rotating body 5 in the direction of rotation. The push piece 40, which is passed through the push piece hole 23, penetrates the push piece hole 23 and contacts the side surface of the end of the middle rib 44 adjacent to the push piece hole 23. The push piece 40 is exposed from the push piece hole 23 of the second resin rotating body 21. The middle rib 44 receives the force applied when the push piece 40 pushes the coin, preventing deformation and rattling of the push piece 40. The middle rib 44 contacts the surface of the push piece 40 opposite to the surface that contacts the coin, and supports the push piece 40. The pushing piece 40 is preferably supported by a wide surface on the side of the central rib 44, and more preferably, the side of the central rib 44 is in contact with the entire surface of one side of the pushing piece 40. The central rib 44, together with the pushing piece 40, receives the force applied to the pushing piece 40, so its thickness in the rotational direction of the rotating body is made at least greater than that of the pushing piece 40 to prevent bending. The shape of the portion of the central rib 44 that contacts the pushing piece 40 corresponds to the shape of the pushing piece 40. The central rib 44 has a shape that follows the shape of at least a part of the curved portion 41. The central rib 44 may also have a shape that follows the entire surface of the curved portion 41. The pushing piece hole 23 is a through hole with a shape corresponding to the shape of the pushing piece 40, and the pushing piece 40 fits into the pushing piece hole 23. Furthermore, the pushing piece 40 protrudes from the pushing piece hole 23 on the back side of the second resin rotating body 21 in the direction of the base 7 (see Figure 9). The pushing piece 40 has a curved portion 41 and a curved surface, so the coin moves smoothly as it rubs against the surface of the pushing piece 40. Also, as the rotating body 5 rotates, the pushing piece 40 moves between the center of the rotating body and the coin, and the contact point between the pushing piece 40 and the coin gradually approaches the line connecting the center of the rotating body 5 and the center of the coin.

[0040] The central rib 44 has a shape in which its periphery protrudes from the surface of the second resin rotating body 21 and its center is recessed. Furthermore, because the central rib 44 is shaped to correspond to the curved portion 41 of the pressing piece 40, it protrudes in the direction of rotation of the rotating body 5. Therefore, the central rib 44 is less prone to elastic deformation compared to the case where the pressing piece 40 is flat. The contact portion of the rotating body 5 with the coin has a hard surface, but the central rib 44 allows for a very slight deflection.

[0041] The pin receiver 48 of the outer rib 45 is positioned on the opposite side of the rotation direction of the push pin 42 to the rotating body 5, and receives the force applied when the push pin 42 comes into contact with the coin. A push pin hole 30 is provided at the base of the end of the outer rib 45. The push pin 42, which passes through the push pin hole 30, comes into contact with the pin receiver 48 at the end of the outer rib 45. The pin receiver 48 of the outer rib 45 receives the force applied to the push pin 42 and prevents deformation and rattling of the push pin 42. The side of the push pin 42 opposite to the surface that comes into contact with the coin is supported by the pin receiver 48 of the outer rib 45. The outer rib 45 forms the outer circumferential surface of the second resin rotating body 21. The push pin 42 is cylindrical and has a curved surface. The coin moves while rubbing its side against the surface of the push pin 42. Because the surface of the push pin 42 is curved, the coin moves smoothly without getting caught on the push pin 42 as it rubs against its surface. The push pin 42 is positioned to protrude from the outer rib 45 in the direction of rotation of the rotating body 5, thus preventing contact with the resin part of the coin. The push pin 42 is positioned upstream of the push piece 40 in the direction of rotation of the rotating body 5. The push pin 42 pushes the coin that has been pushed by the push piece 40, following the push piece 40.

[0042] A pin relief groove 46 is formed between the inner rib 43 and the middle rib 44. Another pin relief groove 46 is formed between the middle rib 44 and the outer rib 45. The pin relief groove 46 is a groove in which the control pin 13 (see Figure 9), which will be described later, is positioned so as not to come into contact with the rotating body 5.

[0043] Since the first resin rotating body 20 and the second resin rotating body 21 are separable, the push pin 42 can be attached and detached, and each part can be easily replaced.

[0044] Next, we will explain using Figure 7. Figure 7 is a perspective view of the first resin rotating body as seen from the back side.

[0045] The first resin rotating body 20 is provided with hooks 47 and rib-shaped wall portions 49 that rise from the bottom surface 51. The first resin rotating body 20 has hooks 47 at three locations on its outer circumference. The hooks 47 are positioned between adjacent separation holes 6. The tip of each hook 47 has a projection that protrudes outward, allowing it to be fixed to other parts by hooking onto the projection. The wall portions 49 are formed concentrically around the shaft hole 11.

[0046] The rib relief groove 50 is provided at a position corresponding to the protruding portion of the first rib 37 (see Figure 8) of the metal rotating body 32 (see Figure 8). The rib relief groove 50 supports the metal rotating body 32 (see Figure 8) with the wall portion 49 avoiding the first rib 37 (see Figure 8). The positioning projection receiving hole 58 is fitted with the corresponding positioning projection 28 (see Figure 5). The positioning projection 28 (see Figure 5) may have a different shape and dimensions, or may be placed on the first resin rotating body 20. In this case, the corresponding positioning projection receiving hole 58 will be placed on the second resin rotating body 21 (see Figure 5).

[0047] Next, we will explain using Figure 8. Figure 8 is a perspective view of the rotating body from the back side, with the second resin rotating body removed. It shows the metal rotating body 32 and the push pin 42 placed on the wall portion 49 of the first resin rotating body 20.

[0048] The first rib 37 of the metal rotating body 32 is positioned between adjacent separation holes 6. In addition, a pushing piece 40 is positioned corresponding to each separation hole 6.

[0049] The end of the push pin 42 is provided with an enlarged diameter portion 54, which is wider than the diameter of the cylindrical pin. The diameter of the enlarged diameter portion 54 is larger than the diameter of the opening of the push pin hole 30 (see 6), so the push pin 42 cannot pass through the push pin hole 30.

[0050] The first rib 37 protrudes from the surface of the metal rotating body 32 in the direction of the first resin rotating body 20, but the back surface of the metal rotating body 32 is recessed. The first rib 37 is positioned in a location corresponding to the rib relief groove 50 (see Figure 7) of the first resin rotating body 20, the third through hole 38 is positioned in a location corresponding to the positioning projection 28 (see Figure 5), and the shaft hole frame portion 31 is positioned in a location corresponding to the second through hole 35.

[0051] The pushing piece 40 is curved. The tip of the pushing piece 40 protrudes to a position where it overlaps with the thick portion 53 of the wall portion 49 in a top view, but it does not overlap with the opening of the separation hole 6. The pushing piece 40 is designed so that no force is applied to it in any direction other than the direction in which the coin is pushed. For example, the arm portion 34 is positioned so that it does not overlap with the separation hole 6 in a top view, so the coin comes into contact with the pushing piece 40 after entering the separation hole 6 and is pushed. The arm portion 34 is covered by the first resin rotating body 20, so it does not directly hit the coin as it falls when it is inserted.

[0052] The wall portion 49 that forms the edge of the separation hole 6 has a thin portion 52 and a thick portion 53, corresponding to the shape of the stepped portion 36 on the side surface of the metal rotating body 32. The transition point between the thin portion 52 and the thick portion 53 corresponds to the shape of the stepped portion 36. A part of the side surface of the metal rotating body 32, including the stepped portion 36, is in contact with the wall portion 49. The contact between the wall portion 49 and the side surface of the metal rotating body 32 determines and fixes the position of the metal rotating body 32 on the first resin rotating body 20. Furthermore, by bringing a part of the side surface of the metal rotating body 32, including the stepped portion 36, into contact with the wall portion 49, the rotational force applied to the pushing piece 40 when the coin is pushed can be received over a wide area, and the force can be distributed and received. Furthermore, the first rib 37 engages with the corresponding rib relief groove 50 (see Figure 7), the third through hole 38 engages with the corresponding positioning projection 28 (see Figure 5), and the side surface of the arm portion 34 engages with the corresponding wall portion 49. These engagements restrict and prevent rattling of the metal rotating body 32 in the rotational direction. The metal rotating body 32 is supported by multiple parts of the first resin rotating body 20.

[0053] An example has been described in which the wall portion 49, which is in contact with the side surface of the metal rotating body 32 including the stepped portion 36, is arranged on the first resin rotating body 20. However, the wall portion 49 may also be arranged on the second resin rotating body 21 (see Figure 5), and its shape and dimensions may be changed.

[0054] Next, we will explain using Figure 9. Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the coin hopper. Figure 9(a) shows the first state of the coin hopper, Figure 9(b) shows the second state of the coin hopper, Figure 9(c) shows the third state of the coin hopper, and Figure 9(d) shows the fourth state of the coin hopper. Figures 9(a) to 9(d) show the states changing in the order indicated by the arrows. The operation of ejecting the coins 10 that have entered the separation hole 6 will be explained using Figures 9(a) to 9(d). Figure 9 is a top view of the rotating body 5. Parts that are hidden from view on the back of the rotating body 5, such as the pin relief groove 46, control pin 13, push piece 40, and push pin 42, are shown with dashed lines. The coins 10 are also shown with dashed lines. The control pins 13 are located in two places: one close to the rotation axis 12 and another close to the outer circumference. The rotating body 5 rotates counterclockwise around the rotation axis 12. The control pin 13 is positioned in the transport path through which the coin 10 is transported by the rotating body 5. The pin relief grooves 46 are arranged concentrically around the rotation axis 12 so that the control pin 13 does not come into contact with the rotating body 5.

[0055] The fixed roller 55, the movable roller 56, and the guide 57 are a mechanism for forcefully ejecting the coin 10 to the outside. The movable roller 56 is movable along the guide 57 and is biased by a spring toward the fixed roller 55. The movable roller 56 is pushed by the coin 10 and moves toward the fixed roller 55. The coin 10 is pushed between the movable roller 56 and the fixed roller 55. As the movement of the coin 10 progresses and the distance between the fixed roller 55 and the movable roller 56 exceeds the diameter of the coin 10, the force of the spring causes the movable roller 56 to move toward the fixed roller. The coin 10 is pushed by the movable roller 56, passes through the discharge groove 22, and is forcefully ejected to the outside.

[0056] First, in the diagram showing the first state in Figure 9(a), the coin 10 that has entered the preceding separation hole 6 of the rotating body 5 is being pushed and transported by the pushing piece 40, and is shown to be just about to contact the control pin 13. Also, the coin 10 is about to enter the subsequent separation hole 6.

[0057] After this, the coin 10, pushed by the push piece 40, first contacts the control pin 13, which is close to the rotation axis 12, and changes its direction of movement toward the discharge groove 22. As the push piece 40 pushes the coin 10 that has contacted the control pin 13, a large force is applied to the push piece 40.

[0058] Next, in the second state shown in Figure 9(b), the coin 10 is pushed by the pushing piece 40, and a portion of the coin 10 is pushed out to the outside of the rotating body 5. The coin 10 moves away from the control pin 13 close to the rotation axis 12, and while contacting the control pin 13 close to the outer circumference of the rotating body 5, it passes through the discharge groove 22, and a portion of the coin 10 is pushed out to the outside of the rotating body 5. The coin 10 contacts the moving roller 56 and pushes the moving roller 56 to move. The coin 10 moves while changing its contact position with the pushing piece 40. As the rotation of the rotating body 5 progresses, the contact position of the pushing piece 40 with the coin 10 moves away from the center of the rotating body 5. The curved portion 41 makes it possible to increase the distance the coin 10 moves on the pushing piece 40 per unit rotation angle of the rotating body 5. Because the pushing piece 40 is curved, the pushing piece 40 moves so that it fits between the coin 10 and the rotation axis 12. The coin 10 moves so as to be pushed along the surface of the pushing piece 40 in a direction away from the rotation axis 12. The coin 10 can move while smoothly sliding along the surface of the pushing piece 40.

[0059] Next, in the diagram showing the third state in Figure 9(c), the coin 10 is shown moving while being further pushed by the push piece 40. The direction of movement of the coin 10 is guided by the control pin 13 and the fixed roller 55. Pushed by the push piece 40, the coin 10 moves between the fixed roller 55 and the movable roller 56, pushing and moving the movable roller 56. Even as the movement of the coin 10 progresses and the coin 10 moves away from the push piece 40, the coin 10 is pushed by the push pin 42. The coin 10 moves outward between the fixed roller 55 and the movable roller 56. The coin 10 is pushed by at least the push piece 40 or the push pin 42 until the distance between the fixed roller 55 and the movable roller 56 reaches the diameter of the coin 10 and the movable roller 56 changes direction of movement toward the fixed roller 55.

[0060] Next, in the diagram showing the fourth state in Figure 9(d), the movement of the coin 10 progresses, and after the distance between the fixed roller 55 and the movable roller 56 reaches the diameter of the coin 10, the movable roller 56 is shown moving in the direction of the fixed roller 55. Since the movable roller 56 is biased in the direction of the fixed roller 55, the movable roller 56 moves in the direction of the fixed roller 55. At that time, the coin 10 is pushed out by the returning force of the movable roller 56. The coin 10 moves vigorously in the discharge direction. The push pin 42 is positioned so that the coin 10 does not come into contact with the resin part.

[0061] When the coin 10 is in contact with the control pin 13, the fixed roller 55, or the movable roller 56, and the pushing piece 40 or pushing pin 42 pushes the coin 10, a strong force is applied to the pushing piece 40 or pushing pin 42. If the contact portion of the pushing piece 40 or pushing pin 42 with the coin 10 is made of resin, it will deform and wear down. The rotating body 5 can reduce or prevent deformation and wear by making the pushing piece 40 or pushing pin 42 out of metal.

[0062] Next, we will explain the coin processing device using Figure 10. Figure 10 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a coin processing device.

[0063] The coins 10 stored in the storage container 70 of the coin processing device 60 are a mixture of multiple denominations. The coin processing device 60 separates the coins 10 stored in the storage container 70 by denomination and stores them in the coin hopper 1. The coin processing device 60 also discharges the coins 10 from the coin hopper 1 based on instructions from an external device. Such a coin processing device 60 is installed in POS systems, currency exchange machines, and the like.

[0064] The coin processing device 60 consists of a separation unit 61, an identification unit 62, and a sorting unit 63. Coins 10 of different denominations are mixed together and placed into a storage container 70. The separation unit 61 passes the coins 10 one by one to the identification unit 62. The identification unit 62 uses a sensor (not shown) to detect the characteristics of the coins 10 being transported one by one and identifies their denomination. The identified coins 10 are then passed from the identification unit 62 to the sorting unit 63. The sorting unit 63 stores the identified coins 10 into the corresponding coin hopper 1.

[0065] In the sorting section 63, the coins 10 are transported along the rail 68 by the transport pin 64. A sorting flap 65 is positioned along the rail 68. The sorting flap 65 changes the path of the coins 10 by a drive unit (not shown). Depending on the state of the sorting flap 65, the coins 10 are either dropped onto the slider 66 or pass through without being dropped. If the coins 10 are dropped onto the slider 66, they pass through the guide path 67 and are stored in the container 2 of the coin hopper 1.

[0066] Coins 10 whose denomination has been identified are either stored in one of the four coin hoppers 1, or guided to the reject passage 71 and discharged into the payout tray 72. Since there are four coin hoppers 1, four types of coins 10 can be stored, and other denominations are not accepted and are discharged. Coins 10 are discharged onto the discharge belt 69 from multiple coin hoppers 1 arranged in a row. In other words, the discharge belt 69 can also be said to be a coin receiving section that receives the coins 10 discharged from multiple coin hoppers 1 arranged in a row. By rotating the discharge belt 69, the coins 10 can be collected in one place.

[0067] The coins 10 discharged from the payout port 4 of the coin hopper 1 are placed on the discharge belt 69. The discharge belt 69 is driven by a drive unit (not shown) and transports the coins 10 to the payout tray 72. [Industrial applicability]

[0068] The present invention can be used in a coin hopper that dispenses coins one at a time, a rotating body used in a coin hopper, and a coin processing device equipped with a coin hopper. [Explanation of symbols]

[0069] 1 Coin Hopper 2 containers 3 Main unit 4. Discount Outlet 5. Solids of revolution 6 separation hole 7 Base 8 Guide section 9 identification holes 10 coins 11 Shaft hole 12 rotation axes 13 control pins 14 Stirring projection 15 Frame section 20 First resin rotating body 21. Second resin rotating body 22 Discharge groove 23 Pushing piece hole 24 base 25 groove 26 Pillar section 27 Bottom part 28 Positioning projection 29 First through hole 30 Push pin holes 31 Axle hole frame 32 Metal Rotating Body 33 Center 34 Arm section 35 Second through hole 36 Stepped section 37. First Rib 38 Third through hole 39 Music section 40 Push piece 41 Curved section 42 Push pins 43 Inner Rib 44. Middle rib 45 Outer rib 46 Pin Relief Grooves 47 hooks 48 pin receiver 49 Wall 50 Rib relief groove 51 Bottom 52 Thin-walled section 53 Thick part 54 Expanded diameter part 55 Fixed roller 56 Mobile rollers 57 Guide 58 Positioning protrusion hole 60 Coin Processing Units 61 Separation part 62 Identification Unit 63 Sorting section 64 transport pins 65 Distribution Flap 66 Slider 67 Guide Route 68 rails 69. Discharge belt 70 Storage containers 71 Rejection Passage 72 Withdrawal Trays

Claims

1. A container for storing coins, A base that supports the aforementioned coin, A rotating body having multiple separation holes for holding each of the aforementioned coins, positioned opposite the base, and having a metal rotating body equipped with a metal pushing piece for pushing the coins between a first resin rotating body and a second resin rotating body, It has, The separation hole penetrates the rotating body so that the coin can pass through both sides of the rotating body. In a coin hopper that rotates the rotating body to push the coins that have entered the separation hole, move them in the outer circumferential direction of the rotating body, and discharge them, The metal rotating body has arm portions that extend radially from the center of rotation of the rotating body and are positioned between the separation holes, The arm portion has a protrusion that protrudes from the surface and is located between the rotation center and the tip of the arm portion and between adjacent separation holes of the rotating body, a pushing piece formed by bending the end of the arm portion, and a through hole located between the protrusion and the pushing piece. The first resin rotating body or the second resin rotating body has a projection that protrudes from the surface at a position corresponding to the through hole, The rotating body is fixed in such a state that the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body are engaged with each other, with the metal rotating body sandwiched between them, the pushing piece is exposed from the second resin rotating body toward the base, and the projection is inserted through the through hole, and the first resin rotating body, the second resin rotating body and the metal rotating body are fixed in this state. A coin hopper characterized in that the coins supported on the base and placed in the separation holes are pushed by the pushing piece to slide on the base.

2. The coin hopper according to claim 1, characterized in that the projection is provided on a flat surface of the first resin rotating body or the second resin rotating body, and the metal rotating body has a flat surface that contacts the flat surface of the first resin rotating body or the second resin rotating body.

3. The coin hopper according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the projection has a groove at its tip and the tip is divided into a plurality of columnar sections.

4. The coin hopper according to claim 1, It has a coin receiving section that receives and collects the coins discharged from the coin hopper, A coin processing device characterized in that multiple coin hoppers are arranged, and the coins discharged from each of the coin hoppers are received by the coin receiving unit.

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