Coin hopper and coin processing device

Abstract

To provide a coin hopper that can reduce wear of portions of a rotor mounted on the coin hopper, the portions abutting on a coin, prevent damage to the rotor, and suitably convey the coin, the rotor of the coin hopper, and a coin processor.SOLUTION: A rotor 70 has a three-body structure of a first resin rotor, a second resin rotor, and a metal rotor. The metal rotor is partially bent to form two pushing pieces 77, 78 that push a coin. The pushing pieces 77, 78 are respectively inserted into and fitted within through-holes 79, 80 provided in the first resin rotor for fixture. The first resin rotor and the second resin rotor are fixed with the metal rotor sandwiched therebetween for integration. The integrated rotor 70 is rotated to cause the metallic pushing pieces 77, 78 to sequentially abut on a peripheral surface of the coin on a base, thereby pushing the coin in an outer peripheral direction. Since the portions to abut on the coin are metallic, wear of and damage to the rotor can be prevented, and the coin can be suitably conveyed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 14

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

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

[0003] For example, the coin hopper described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-204156 includes a holding bowl that holds a large number of coins and a payout means that discharges the coins in the holding bowl one by one. An opening is provided at the bottom of the holding bowl. 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 through holes into which coins can enter. The coins that enter the through holes of the rotating body are held on a flat base disposed on the back surface side of the rotating body. Further, a pushing protrusion for pushing the coin is provided on the side surface of the through hole. As the rotating body rotates, the coin is pushed by the pushing protrusion 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 into the outlet passage. Further, as the rotating body rotates, the coins in the holding bowl are agitated.

[0004] The pushing protrusion abuts on the coin that has entered the through hole and pushes the coin in the moving direction as the rotating body rotates. The pushing protrusion wears or gets damaged due to contact with the coin. Therefore, a rotating body reinforced with a reinforcing material has been considered. The rotating body has a metal plate inserted into resin by integral molding. The rotating body is reinforced by the metal plate, so its durability is improved. A coin hopper considering such durability has been considered.

[0005] Furthermore, circulating currency issued by a nation includes coins of multiple denominations. Since each coin differs in diameter, thickness, material, and design, anyone can easily identify the denomination. Coin processing equipment detects the characteristics of the coins and identifies the denomination. Coin processing equipment can also store the identified coins in containers according to their denomination. Coin processing equipment identifies the denomination of coins, stores the coins by denomination, and dispenses the stored coins as needed. Coin processing equipment can store coins by denomination in a coin hopper and dispense the desired amount of coins by controlling the coin hopper.

[0006] For example, a known coin processing device is the coin deposit and dispensing machine described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-151818. Another example of a coin processing device is an automatic change dispenser. An automatic change dispenser stores the inserted coins by denomination. The automatic change dispenser then calculates the denominations and number of coins to be dispensed based on the amount of change. Based on the calculated denominations and number of coins, the automatic change dispenser controls the coin hopper corresponding to each denomination to dispense the coins.

[0007] Compared to metal rotating bodies, resin rotating bodies can be made lighter but are less durable. Therefore, it was considered to make a part of the rotating body out of metal. One method is the aforementioned rotating body in which a metal plate is inserted into the resin by integral molding. Another method is the rotating disk described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2003-20127. In this rotating disk, an extruded disk equipped with metal pushing protrusions is fixed to a resin disk by screws. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2008-204156 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-151818 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2003-20127 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] Traditionally, rotating bodies were designed by integrally molding a metal plate and resin. Conventional rotating bodies consisted of a metal plate surrounded by resin, with the metal plate providing increased strength to the resin layer. Furthermore, the pressing projection that pushes the coin was reinforced by the metal plate within the resin layer. Even with a metal plate inserted into the rotating body, the exposed resin portion was susceptible to damage from contact with the coin. Depending on the location of the damage, the rotating body may cease to function properly. Additionally, if foreign objects other than coins enter the container, the rotating body may come into contact with these objects, leading to wear and tear or damage. In the worst-case scenario, the rotating body becomes unusable and requires replacement. With integrally molded rotating bodies, even if only a small part is damaged, the entire rotating body must be replaced. Such rotating bodies have the problem of wasting usable parts, as they must be replaced even if some parts remain functional.

[0010] Rotating bodies molded integrally from resin and metal have a problem of delamination due to repeated impacts on the joint between the metal and resin. The strength of the joint can be improved by additional processing such as surface treatment of the metal parts and increasing the complexity of the shape. However, rotating bodies with improved strength at the metal-resin joint have problems such as increased manufacturing processes, increased complexity of parts, and increased time required for part manufacturing.

[0011] Furthermore, the rotating disc, to which an extruded disc equipped with a metal pressing projection for pressing the coin was screwed, had the pressing projection formed by bending a metal plate twice. The tip of the pressing projection would contact the coin to press it. Since the extruded disc was screwed to the resin disc, force was applied to the bent part of the pressing projection when the coin was pressed. Therefore, there was a risk that the bent part of the pressing projection would bend and deform. Also, in order to increase the strength sufficiently, it was necessary to use a thick metal plate, which resulted in the rotating disc becoming heavy. In addition, since the pressing projection was formed by bending a metal plate, the tip of the metal plate would contact the coin, which meant that there was a problem of the coin being scratched by the edge of the metal plate.

[0012] Furthermore, since the extruded disc is fixed to the resin disc by screws, the manufacturing process and quality control, including screw tightening and torque management, were complex. If the screws loosened, the extruded disc could move relative to the resin disc, potentially causing a coin to get stuck underneath and creating a jam.

[0013] Conventional coin processing systems using coin hoppers have a problem where coin dispensing malfunctions occur if there is a problem with the rotating part. Therefore, there is a demand for coin hoppers with high durability. There is also a demand for coin hoppers that are easy to maintain in case of malfunctions. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] The present invention provides a coin hopper comprising: a container for storing coins; a base for supporting the coins; and a rotating body having a plurality of separation holes for holding each coin individually, fixed to a rotating shaft, and positioned opposite the base, wherein the rotating body is rotated to push the coins that have entered the separation holes, move them in the outer circumferential direction of the rotating body, and discharge them, wherein the rotating body is made of resin, first of resin Department And the second made of resin of resin Department And a metal having arms that extend radially from the center outward to the outer circumference, corresponding to the separation holes. DepartmentThe arm has a pushing piece formed by bending the edge of the arm, and the first of resin Department It is arranged in correspondence with the pressing piece and has a pressing piece hole through which the pressing piece is inserted, and the metal Department is the first of resin Department and further 2 of resin Department The first is positioned between the two, and the pushing piece is fitted into the pushing piece hole. of resin Department Fixed to the first of resin Department The coin is characterized by being pushed by the pushing piece exposed from there. 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.

[0015] A coin hopper according to another aspect 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, fixed to a rotating shaft, and positioned opposite the base, wherein the rotating body is rotated to push the coins that have entered the separation holes, move them in the outer direction of the rotating body, and discharge them, wherein the rotating body comprises a first resin rotating body made of resin, a second resin rotating body made of resin, and a metal rotating body having arms that extend radially from the center outward to correspond to the separation holes, wherein the first resin rotating body has a first contact portion, the second resin rotating body has a second contact portion, and the rotating body is fixed in a state in which the metal rotating body is positioned between the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body by engaging the first contact portion and the second contact portion. Another embodiment of the present invention is a coin processing device comprising the above-described coin hopper and a coin receiving unit that receives and collects the coins discharged from the coin hopper, wherein a plurality of coin hoppers are arranged, and the coin receiving unit receives the coins discharged from each of the coin hoppers. A coin hopper according to another aspect 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 each coin individually, fixed to a rotating shaft and positioned opposite the base, wherein the rotating body is rotated to push the coins that have entered the separation holes, move them in the outer circumferential direction of the rotating body, and discharge them, wherein the rotating body comprises a first resin rotating body made of resin and a metal rotating body having metal pushing pieces for pushing the coins arranged in each of the separation holes, The present invention relates to a first resin rotating body made of resin, the first resin rotating body having a first contact portion, the second resin rotating body having a second contact portion, the metal rotating body being positioned between the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body with the pushing piece exposed from the first resin rotating body, the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body being fixed together by engaging the first contact portion and the second contact portion, and the pushing piece exposed from the first resin rotating body pushing the coin on the base. Another embodiment of the present invention is a coin processing device comprising the above-described coin hopper and a coin receiving unit that receives and collects the coins discharged from the coin hopper, wherein a plurality of coin hoppers are arranged, and the coin receiving unit receives the coins discharged from each of the coin hoppers. A coin hopper rotating body in another aspect of the present invention comprises a container for storing coins, a base for supporting the coins, and a rotating body fixed to a rotating shaft and positioned opposite the base, having a plurality of separation holes for holding each coin individually, wherein the rotating body pushes the coins that have entered the separation holes, moves them in the outer direction of the rotating body, and discharges them, wherein the rotating body comprises a first resin rotating body made of resin and a metal rotating body in which metal pushing pieces for pushing the coins are arranged for each of the separation holes. The invention comprises a rotating body and a second resin rotating body made of resin, wherein the first resin rotating body has a first contact portion and the second resin rotating body has a second contact portion, and the metal rotating body is positioned between the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body with the pushing piece exposed from the first resin rotating body, and the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body are fixed by engaging the first contact portion and the second contact portion, and the coin on the base is pushed by the pushing piece exposed from the first resin rotating body. Another embodiment of the present invention, a coin hopper, comprises a container for storing coins, a base for supporting the coins, and a rotating body fixed to a rotating shaft and positioned opposite the base, having a plurality of separation holes for holding each coin individually, wherein the rotating body is rotated to push the coins that have entered the separation holes, move them in the outer direction of the rotating body, and discharge them, wherein the rotating body comprises a first resin rotating body made of resin, a metal rotating body having metal pushing pieces for pushing the coins arranged in each of the separation holes, and a second resin rotating body The present invention relates to a metal rotating body comprising a resin rotating body and a metal rotating body, wherein the first resin rotating body has a first contact portion, the second resin rotating body has a second contact portion, and the metal rotating body is sandwiched between the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body with the pushing piece exposed from the first resin rotating body, and the first resin rotating body, the metal rotating body and the second resin rotating body are fixed by engaging the first contact portion and the second contact portion, and the coin on the base is pushed by the pushing piece exposed from the first resin rotating body. Another embodiment of the present invention is a coin processing device comprising the above-described coin hopper and a coin receiving unit that receives and collects the coins discharged from the coin hopper, wherein a plurality of coin hoppers are arranged, and the coin receiving unit receives the coins discharged from each of the coin hoppers. Another embodiment of the present invention: A coin hopper rotating body comprises a container for storing coins, a base for supporting the coins, and a rotating body fixed to a rotating shaft and positioned opposite the base, having a plurality of separation holes for holding each coin individually, wherein 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 a coin hopper rotating body, the rotating body comprises a first resin rotating body made of resin, a metal rotating body having metal pushing pieces for pushing the coins arranged in each of the separation holes, and resin The present invention comprises a first resin rotating body and a second resin rotating body, wherein the first resin rotating body has a first contact portion and the second resin rotating body has a second contact portion, and the metal rotating body is sandwiched between the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body with the pushing piece exposed from the first resin rotating body, and the first resin rotating body, the metal rotating body and the second resin rotating body are fixed by engaging the first contact portion and the second contact portion, and the coin on the base is pushed by the pushing piece exposed from the first resin rotating body. Another aspect of the coin hopper of the present invention includes a container for storing coins, a base for supporting the coins, a plurality of separation holes for holding the coins one by one, a rotating body fixed to a rotating shaft and disposed opposite to the base, and a control pin disposed in the conveyance path of the coins held by the rotating body, contacting the conveyed coins, and changing the moving direction of the coins. In the coin hopper that conveys the coins stored in the container above the base while holding the coins in the separation holes, contacts the coins with the control pin, and moves the coins in the discharge direction, the rotating body includes a first resin rotating body made of resin, a metal rotating body in which a metal pushing piece for pushing the coins is disposed for each of the separation holes, and a second resin rotating body made of resin. The metal rotating body has a first through hole, and the first resin rotating body or the second resin rotating body has a positioning protrusion at a position corresponding to the first through hole. The first resin rotating body has a first contact portion, and the second resin rotating body has a second contact portion. The metal rotating body is sandwiched between the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body in a state where the pushing piece protrudes from the first resin rotating body. The positioning protrusion fits into the first through hole and restricts relative movement in the rotational direction with the metal rotating body. By engaging the first contact portion and the second contact portion, the first resin rotating body, the metal rotating body, and the second resin rotating body are fixed. Another aspect of the coin processing apparatus of the present invention includes the above-described coin hopper and a coin receiving portion for receiving and collecting the coins discharged from the coin hopper. A plurality of the coin hoppers are arranged, and the coin receiving portion receives the coins discharged from each of the coin hoppers.

[0016] The rotating body of the coin hopper according to another aspect of the present invention includes a container for storing coins, a base for supporting the coins, a plurality of separation holes for holding the coins one by one, fixed to a rotation axis, and disposed opposite to the base; a control pin disposed in the conveyance path of the coins held by the rotating body, contacting the conveyed coins, and changing the moving direction of the coins. In the rotating body of the coin hopper that conveys the coins stored in the container above the base while holding the coins in the separation holes, contacting the coins with the control pin, and moving the coins in the discharge direction, the rotating body includes a first resin rotating body made of resin, a metal rotating body in which a pushing piece made of metal for pushing the coins is disposed for each of the separation holes, and a second resin rotating body made of resin. The metal rotating body has a first through hole, and the first resin rotating body or the second resin rotating body has a positioning protrusion at a position corresponding to the first through hole. The first resin rotating body has a first contact portion, and the second resin rotating body has a second contact portion. The metal rotating body is sandwiched between the first resin rotating body and the second resin rotating body in a state where the pushing piece protrudes from the first resin rotating body. The positioning protrusion fits into the first through hole, restricts relative movement in the rotation direction with the metal rotating body, and by engaging the first contact portion and the second contact portion, the first resin rotating body, the metal rotating body, and the second resin rotating body are fixed.

Advantages of the Invention

[0017] According to the present invention, the durability of the rotating body and the coin hopper can be improved. According to the coin hopper with improved durability, it is possible to reduce or prevent coin payout failures in the coin processing device. In addition, it is possible to provide a rotating body, a coin hopper, and a coin processing device with excellent maintainability.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the coin hopper. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the coin hopper with the coin container removed. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a solid of revolution. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the back side of the rotating body. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the back side of the rotating body. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is the first diagram illustrating the structure of a rotating body. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a second diagram illustrating the structure of a rotating body. [Figure 8] Figure 8 illustrates the operation of the coin hopper. Figure 8(a) illustrates the first state of operation of the coin hopper. Figure 8(b) illustrates the second state of operation of the coin hopper. Figure 8(c) illustrates the third state of operation of the coin hopper. Figure 8(d) illustrates the fourth state of operation of the coin hopper. Figure 8(e) illustrates the fifth state of operation of the coin hopper. Figure 8(f) illustrates the sixth state of operation of the coin hopper. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a coin processing device. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a second solid of revolution. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is the first diagram illustrating the structure of a second example of a solid of revolution. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a second diagram illustrating the structure of a second example of a solid of revolution. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a third diagram illustrating the structure of a second example of a solid of revolution. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a perspective view of the back side illustrating an example of a second solid of revolution. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a top view illustrating an example of a third solid of revolution. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is the first diagram illustrating the structure of a third example of a solid of revolution. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a second diagram illustrating the structure of a third example of a solid of revolution. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a perspective view of the back side illustrating an example of a third solid of revolution. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is the first diagram illustrating the structure of an example of a fourth solid of revolution. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is the second diagram illustrating the structure of the fourth example of a solid of revolution. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0019] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Each drawing 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 drawing are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0020] First, let's explain the coin hopper using Figure 1. Figure 1 is a perspective view of the coin hopper.

[0021] The coin hopper 1 comprises a container 2 for storing coins 10 and a main body 3 for dispensing the coins 10 one by one. The container 2 can be attached to and detached from the main body 3. A guide section 8, which is a roughly circular opening, is provided at the bottom of the container 2. A rotating body 5 is provided at the top of the main body 3. The guide section 8 is positioned along the outer circumference of the rotating body 5 and guides the coins 10 so that they accumulate on the rotating body 5.

[0022] The rotating body 5 is provided with multiple separation holes 6. The separation holes 6 are through holes that penetrate both sides of the rotating body 5. The coin 10 enters the separation hole 6 and is slid along the base 7 by the rotating body 5. Control pins are provided at predetermined positions on the base 7. When the coin 10 comes into contact with a control pin, it changes course towards the payout opening 4 and is discharged from the payout opening 4.

[0023] The main body 3 is equipped with a flat base 7 on its upper part, and a rotating body 5 rotates above it. The guide section 8 of the container 2 is positioned along the outer circumference of the rotating body 5. The rotating body 5 faces the opening of the guide section 8. The base 7 is inclined such that the side where the dispensing outlet 4 is located is higher vertically than the opposite side. Because the base 7 is inclined, coins 10 tend to accumulate 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 then carried by the rotating body 5 to the dispensing outlet 4.

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

[0025] Furthermore, each coin 10 differs in size, material, design, and other elements for each denomination. The coin processing device installs a coin hopper 1 of a predetermined denomination at a predetermined position. 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 at predetermined positions. The coin hopper 1 having the corresponding identification holes 9 is set at the predetermined position of the coin processing device.

[0026] Let's describe coin hopper 1 in more detail. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the coin hopper with the coin container removed.

[0027] The coin hopper 1 has a motor 11 for driving the rotating body 5. The rotation of the motor 11 is controlled by a control circuit (not shown). Inside the main body 3, there is a gear (not shown) that connects the motor 11 to a rotating shaft (not shown) to which the rotating body 5 is fixed. The rotating shaft passes through a through hole provided in the base 7. The rotating body 5 is fixed to the rotating shaft that protrudes from the base 7. The stirring section 12 is a projection located at the center of rotation of the rotating body 5 and stirs the coins 10 so that they do not remain in an uneven position. The stirring section 12 also has a mechanism inside that fixes the rotating body 5 to the rotating shaft. Strength can be improved by making the part fixed to the rotating shaft out of metal. For example, the stirring section 12 may be made of metal. The rotating body 5 is also provided with stirring blades 18. The stirring blades 18 are projections provided on the surface of the rotating body 5. The stirring blades 18 stir the accumulating coins 10. The stirring blades 18 are arranged radially from the center of the rotating body 5. Furthermore, in order to enhance the stirring capacity, recesses are provided between adjacent stirring blades 18, making the surface of the rotating body 5 more complex.

[0028] The uneven surface of the rotating body 5 effectively agitates the accumulating coins 10, making it easier for the coins 10 to enter the separation holes 6. Therefore, the rotating body 5 is thick. To lighten the rotating body 5, a portion of it is made of plastic and a portion of it of metal. This allows the rotating body 5 to be lightweight while maintaining its strength. Furthermore, by making the part of the rotating body 5 that contacts the coins 10 of metal, wear and damage caused by contact with the coins 10 can be prevented.

[0029] The rotating body 5 rotates counterclockwise. A groove is provided on the back side of the rotating body 5 to avoid the control pin 13. A pushing piece for pushing the coin 10 is also positioned on the back side of the rotating body 5. A groove is also provided between the outer circumference of the rotating body 5 and the separation hole 6, allowing the coin 10 to pass through. Once the coin 10 enters the separation hole 6, it comes into contact with the control pin 13 and is guided towards the dispensing outlet 4. The coin 10 is pushed in between the fixed roller 15 and the movable roller 16. The movable roller 16 is biased in the direction of the fixed roller 15. When the coin 10 is more than halfway in between the fixed roller 15 and the movable roller 16, the coin 10 passes through the gap between the fixed roller 15 and the movable roller 16. At that time, the coin 10 is moved forcefully towards the dispensing outlet 4 by the biasing force of the movable roller 16. The discharge sensor 14 detects the discharged coin 10. The detection result is output to a control circuit (not shown). The control circuit can count the discharged coins 10. The control pin 13 is positioned in the transport path through which the coin 10 is transported by the rotating body 5.

[0030] An outer wall 17 is provided on the outer circumference of the rotating body 5 to restrict the movement of the coin 10. The outer wall 17 is not provided at least between the fixed roller 15 and the moving roller 16 in order to guide the coin 10 to the dispensing opening 4. The coin 10 can be moved toward the dispensing opening 4 from this point.

[0031] Next, the rotating body 5 will be described. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the rotating body. A commonly used coin 10 is made of metal. The upper side of the rotating body 5 is a first resin part 20 made of a resin such as plastic. From the standpoint of strength, durability, and processability, engineering plastic is preferred for the material of the first resin part 20. The rotating body 5 is divided into three components, which will be described later.

[0032] The rotating body 5 wears down due to contact with the coin 10. Therefore, the rotating body 5 is equipped with metal and resin parts to reduce or prevent wear. The entire rotating body 5 can be made of metal. However, to lighten the rotating body 5, it is preferable to make a part of the rotating body 5 out of resin such as plastic. In addition, the durability of the rotating body 5 can be increased by making the parts of the rotating body 5 that experience heavy wear out of metal. The part of the rotating body 5 that experiences heavy wear out of the rotating body 5 is the pushing piece that pushes the coin 10 that is placed in the separation hole 6. The pushing piece pushes the coin 10 while it is in contact with the control pin 13 (Figure 2), the fixed roller 15 (Figure 2), and the movable roller 16 (Figure 2). Therefore, a force equivalent to the pushing force is applied to the pushing piece as a reaction force. In particular, a force is applied to the end of the pushing piece. Therefore, durability is improved by making the pushing piece out of metal. The pushing piece is located on the back side of the rotating body 5.

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

[0034] Next, we will describe the back side of the rotating body 5. Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the back side of the rotating body.

[0035] The central part of the rotating body 5 is provided with an axial hole 23 into which the rotating shaft of the rotating body 5 is inserted. The rotating shaft has a locking portion that passes through the center of the shaft and is positioned perpendicular to the axial direction. An axial locking groove 24 that engages with the locking portion is located in the central part of the rotating body 5.

[0036] The first resin part 20 is provided with five separation holes 6 that are equidistant from the center of rotation and at equal intervals. The separation holes 6 are through holes that penetrate both the front and back of the first resin part 20. The area around the separation holes 6 is formed to be thick. The part of the metal part 22 other than the pressing piece 25 is made of flat metal and is arranged parallel to the base 7 (Figure 2). The pressing piece 25 is formed by bending the edge of the flat plate approximately perpendicular to the direction of the base 7 (Figure 2). The surface of the pressing piece 25 that contacts the coin is flat. For example, the metal part 22 can be easily made by cutting out the outer circumference of a flat plate by press working and bending the part for the pressing piece 25 by press working. The metal part 22 does not require surface treatment to create minute irregularities on its surface.

[0037] On the back side of the first resin part 20 of the rotating body 5, a recess 31 is formed that opens to the back side of the rotating body 5, with a central part including the area around the shaft hole 23 and the shaft locking groove 24, the peripheral part of the first resin part 20, and the peripheral part of the separation hole 6 protruding. Positioning projections 33 are provided in the recess 31 between adjacent separation holes 6. The positioning projections 33 are protruding parts provided on the back side of the first resin part 20. A metal part 22 is housed in the recess 31. The metal part 22 has through holes in the central protruding part of the first resin part 20 and in the part corresponding to the positioning projections 33. The metal part 22 fits into the central protruding part of the first resin part 20 and is fixed to the first resin part 20. Also, the metal part 22 placed in the recess 31 fits into the positioning projections 33 and is fixed to the first resin part 20. The metal part 22 is a metal plate such as an iron alloy such as stainless steel or an aluminum alloy. The metal part 22 has a bent portion between adjacent separation holes 6, and the bent portion functions as a pushing piece 25. Each positioning projection 33 is positioned at an equidistant distance from the rotation center of the rotating body 5. The pushing pieces 25 are positioned on a circumference with a radius equal to the distance from the rotation center to the positioning projection 33. In addition, the reversing piece 26, which contacts the coin when the rotating body 5 is rotated in the reverse direction, is also positioned on a circumference with a radius equal to the distance from the rotation center to the positioning projection 33. Since the pushing pieces 25 are made by bending a flat plate, the contact surface with the coin is a flat surface.

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

[0039] A linear locking groove 37 is formed in the peripheral portion of the first resin part 20, which forms the inner wall of the recess 31. The locking groove 37 is formed in the inner wall on the outer circumference side of the recess 31. The locking groove 37 is a groove that engages with the locking projection provided on the second resin part 21, which will be described later. The locking groove 37 is arranged along the outer circumference of the first resin part 20 and has a narrow, elongated shape.

[0040] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the back side of the rotating body. It is a perspective view of the rotating body 5 as seen from the back side. The rotating body 5 comprises a metal part 22 and resin parts of a first resin part 20 and a second resin part 21. The metal part 22 is inserted into a recess 31 of the first resin part 20. The second resin part 21 is fixed to the first resin part 20. The metal part 22 is sandwiched and fixed between the first resin part 20 and the second resin part 21. The second resin part 21 is provided with a through hole, a push piece hole 30, at a position corresponding to the push piece 25 of the metal part 22. The second resin part 21 is also provided with a through hole in a portion corresponding to the positioning projection 33. The second resin part 21 covers the metal part 22 so that the metal part 22 inserted into the recess 31 does not come out. The push piece 25 passes through the push piece hole 30 and is positioned to protrude from the resin part. The metal part 22 can be fixed to the second resin part 21 by fitting the pushing piece 25 into the pushing piece hole 30. The first resin part 20 and the second resin part 21 can be said to be the first resin rotating body that forms the resin part of the rotating body 5, and the metal part 22 can be said to be the metal rotating body that forms the metal part of the rotating body 5. The pushing pieces 25 are arranged at each of the separation holes 6 provided in the rotating body 5. The central protrusion 34 corresponds to the pushing piece 25 and is provided at a position adjacent to the pushing piece 25. In other words, the central protrusion 34 is provided for each pushing piece 25, preventing deformation of the pushing piece 25 in the rotational direction of the rotating body 5. The only metal part exposed from the second resin part 21 towards the base 7 is the pushing piece 25 exposed from the pushing piece hole 30. The part of the metal part that comes into contact with the coin is minimized. It can also be said that the part of the resin part that receives strong force from the coin 10 is replaced with the metal part.

[0041] A first stepped portion 28 and a second stepped portion 29 are arranged on the outer periphery of the first resin portion 20, corresponding to each of the separation holes 6. The outer periphery of the first resin portion 20 is formed with irregularities by the first stepped portion 28 and the second stepped portion 29, which are provided corresponding to the separation holes 6. Five outer periphery protrusions 32 are formed on the outer periphery of the first resin portion 20. Recesses are formed between the outer periphery protrusions 32, allowing the coin 10 that enters the separation hole 6 to pass through. The coin 10 that enters through the separation hole 6 can move through a passage wider than the opening of the separation hole 6, which is provided on the reverse side of the first resin portion 20 and the second resin portion 21. Since the width of this passage is set to accommodate one coin 10, when a coin 10 is present, other coins 10 cannot enter through the separation hole 6.

[0042] The second resin part 21 has a radially extending base 36 and an inner circumferential projection 35 and a central projection 34 protruding from the base 36. The central projection 34 is provided with a through hole for the positioning projection 33 to pass through. The second resin part 21 is made of a resin such as plastic. Engineering plastic is preferred for the second resin part 21. It is also preferable that the second resin part 21 be made of the same material as the first resin part 20. Since the second resin part 21 does not come into contact with the coin 10, it can be made of a resin that has inferior durability in contact with the coin 10 compared to the first resin part 20.

[0043] The rotating body 5 is located above the base 7 (Figure 2). A groove is required to avoid the control pin 13 (Figure 2) in order for the rotating body 5 to rotate. The pushing piece 25, the central protrusion 34, and the reversing piece 26 are positioned between the inner circumferential protrusion 35 and the outer circumferential protrusion 32, and together they form concentric grooves. When the rotating body 5 rotates, the control pin 13 (Figure 2) passes through the concentrically formed grooves. The surfaces of the pushing piece 25, the central protrusion 34, the reversing piece 26, the inner circumferential protrusion 35, and the outer circumferential protrusion 32 are formed to be substantially flush. The positioning projection 33 is either flush with the central protrusion 34 or provided so as not to protrude.

[0044] The coin 10, which has entered the separation hole 6, is surrounded by the pushing piece 25, the reversing piece 26, the central protrusion 34, and the outer peripheral protrusion 32, and is transported while its range of movement is restricted. When the rotating body 5 rotates forward, it is pushed and moved by the pushing piece 25. When the rotating body 5 rotates backward, it is pushed and moved by the reversing piece 26. The reversing piece 26 is made of resin, but like the pushing piece 25, it can also be formed by bending a metal part 22. The rotating body 5 is reversed less often than it is rotated forward. Therefore, the reversing piece 26 is less likely to wear or be damaged by contact with the coin 10 compared to the pushing piece 25. The reversing piece 26 can be made of resin, but it is more preferably made of metal. Like the pushing piece 25, the reversing piece 26 can be made by bending a part of the metal part 22. The metal part 22 is made of a harder material than the first resin part 20 and the second resin part 21. The rotating body 5 can be made sufficiently durable by the metal part 22. If the durability of the rotating body 5 is sufficiently high, the frequency of replacement of the rotating body 5 will decrease. If the durability of the rotating body 5 is sufficient, the first resin part 20 and the second resin part 21 may be fixed with adhesive. Alternatively, the fixing method between the first resin part 20 and the second resin part 21 may be a combination of a fitting mechanism and adhesive. In the case of fixing by adhesive, it is possible to replace the parts by peeling off the adhesive part. Also, the resin part can be replaced while leaving the metal part 22 in place.

[0045] Coins 10 accumulate on the first resin part 20. The first resin part 20 may be hit by coins 10 falling from above, so it needs to be sufficiently durable. Comparing the thickness of the first resin part 20 and the second resin part 21 between adjacent separation holes 6 in the rotational direction of the rotating body 5, the first resin part 20 is thicker than the second resin part 21. Preferably, at the aforementioned location, the first resin part 20 is thicker than the combined thickness of the second resin part 21 and the metal part 22. By making the first resin part 20 thicker, its durability can be increased. The durability of the rotating body 5 is improved by the metal part 22 that pushes the coins 10 and the first resin part 20. Such a rotating body 5 can reduce the possibility of fatal damage that would require replacement.

[0046] Next, the second resin part 21 and the metal part 22 will be explained using Figures 6 and 7. Figure 6 is the first diagram illustrating the structure of the rotating body. Figure 7 is the second diagram illustrating the structure of the rotating body. Figure 6 is a view from the metal part 22 side, and Figure 7 is a view from the second resin part 21 side.

[0047] The second resin part 21 is provided with a push-button hole 30 corresponding to the push-button 25. The push-button hole 30 is a through hole that penetrates both the front and back surfaces of the second resin part 21. The push-button 25 fits into the push-button hole 30.

[0048] A first through-hole 38 with a circular opening is provided in the center of the second resin part 21. A third through-hole 40 with a circular opening is provided in the center of the metal part 22. The first through-hole 38 and the third through-hole 40 have the same diameter. The central protruding portion of the first resin part 20 (Figure 5) fits into the first through-hole 38 and the third through-hole 40. The metal part 22 is equipped with five arms, each having a pushing piece 25. Each of the five arms has a pushing piece 25. The five pushing pieces 25 are made of a single integrated part. The metal part 22 and the second resin part 21 are easily attached and detached.

[0049] Each of the five arms extending radially from the center of the second resin part 21 is provided with a second through-hole 39 having a circular opening. Each of the five arms extending radially from the center of the metal part 22 is provided with a fourth through-hole 41 having a circular opening. The second through-hole 39 and the fourth through-hole 41 have the same diameter opening. The second through-hole 39 and the fourth through-hole 41 have openings with a shape corresponding to the positioning projection 33 (Figure 5). In other words, the second through-hole 39 and the fourth through-hole 41 are through-holes with the same opening shape. The positioning projection 33 (Figure 5) fits into the second through-hole 39 and the fourth through-hole 41. The positioning projection 33 (Figure 5) positions the push piece 25 and the central protrusion 34 in predetermined positions. That is, by fitting the second through-hole 39 and the fourth through-hole 41 into the positioning projection 33, the push piece 25 can be positioned adjacent to the central protrusion 34. The positioning projection 33 can also be described as an engaging projection that engages the second resin part 21 and the metal part 22 with the first resin part 20.

[0050] The second resin part 21 and the metal part 22 overlap when viewed from above. When viewed from above, the metal part 22 is positioned so that it does not protrude from the second resin part 21 except for the portion of the pushing piece 25.

[0051] The arm sides 44 at the tips of the five radially extending portions of the second resin portion 21 are arc-shaped, corresponding to the recesses 31 (Figure 4). A locking fitting projection 42 is provided on the arm side 44. The locking fitting projection 42 is a linear projection provided on the arm side 44. The locking fitting projection 42 fits into the locking fitting groove 37 (Figure 4). By fitting the locking fitting projection 42 into the locking fitting groove 37 (Figure 4), the metal portion 22 and the second resin portion 21 can be fixed to the first resin portion 20 (Figure 4). In other words, the first resin portion 20 (Figure 4) is provided with a first connecting part in the form of the locking fitting groove 37, and the second resin portion 21 is provided with a second connecting part in the form of the locking fitting projection 42. By connecting the first connecting part and the second connecting part, the first resin portion 20 and the second resin portion 21 are fixed together. Furthermore, the first resin part 20 and the second resin part 21 can be firmly fixed together using an adhesive.

[0052] Thickened sections 43 are provided at the tips of five radially extending portions from the center of the second resin section 21. The thickened sections 43 are positioned equidistant from the rotation center of the second resin section 21. The thickened sections 43 improve the strength of the outer circumference of the second resin section 21 and prevent deformation such as bending or twisting when fixed to the first resin section 20 (Figure 4). The thickened sections 43 improve the strength so that the locking fitting projection 42 does not deform. The thickened sections 43 are approximately equal in thickness to the metal section 22 and twice as thick as the base section 36. The locking fitting projection 42 is positioned in the center of the thickness direction of the thickened section 43.

[0053] The central projection 34, which protrudes from the base 36 of the second resin part 21, is provided adjacent to the push piece hole 30. That is, when the second resin part 21 and the metal part 22 are fitted together, the push piece 25 and the central projection 34 are adjacent to each other. When the coin is pushed by the push piece 25, force is applied to the push piece 25. When force is applied to the push piece 25, deformation of the push piece 25 is prevented by the adjacent central projection 34. Although the central projection 34 is made of resin, it is not worn down by the coin because the coin does not come into direct contact with it. When the coin is in contact with the control pin 13 (Figure 2) or the moving roller 16, and the push piece 25 pushes the coin, the push piece 25 is subjected to a strong force. If the push piece 25 is made of plastic, there is a risk that it will break. Even if the push piece 25 is made of metal, there is a risk that it will bend in the opposite direction to the direction of rotation. Since the central protrusion 34 is positioned adjacent to the pushing piece 25, the central protrusion 34 can prevent deformation of the pushing piece 25. In addition, the entire surface of the pushing piece 25 that contacts the central protrusion 34 is in contact with and supported by the central protrusion 34. Because the entire surface is supported, the pushing piece 25 can be prevented from bending due to contact with the coin 10. The width of the central protrusion 34 is approximately the same as that of the pushing piece 25, but the length of the central protrusion 34 is made longer than its width to increase its strength in the rotational direction. The central protrusion 34 does not deform even if force is applied from the pushing piece 25.

[0054] Next, we will explain the operation of discharging coins from the coin hopper using Figure 8. Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the coin hopper. Figure 8(a) is a diagram illustrating the first state illustrating the operation of the coin hopper. Figure 8(b) is a diagram illustrating the second state illustrating the operation of the coin hopper. Figure 8(c) is a diagram illustrating the third state illustrating the operation of the coin hopper. Figure 8(d) is a diagram illustrating the fourth state illustrating the operation of the coin hopper. Figure 8(e) is a diagram illustrating the fifth state illustrating the operation of the coin hopper. Figure 8(f) is a diagram illustrating the sixth state illustrating the operation of the coin hopper.

[0055] Figures 8(a) to 8(f) are top views with the container 2 (Figure 1) and the first resin part 20 (Figure 3) removed, showing the contact state between the coin 10 and the rotating body 5. The changes in state are shown in the order from Figure 8(a) to Figure 8(f). The coin 10 is indicated by a dashed line.

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

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

[0058] As the rotating body 5 rotates, the coin 10 is pushed in the direction of rotation of the rotating body 5 by the pushing piece 25. However, the movement of the coin 10 in the direction of rotation of the rotating body 5 is restricted by the control pin 13. Therefore, the direction of movement of the coin 10 changes to the direction of the payout opening 4. A force that changes the direction of movement of the coin 10 is applied to the pushing piece 25.

[0059] Figure 8(b) shows the state in which the coin 10 is moving in the direction of the four dispensing outlets and in contact with the moving roller 16. As the rotating body 5 rotates, the coin 10 is pushed by the pushing piece 25. The coin 10 moves away from the control pin 13 on the center side of the rotating body 5 and comes into contact with the control pin 13 on the outside. As the rotation progresses, the contact position of the pushing piece 25 with the coin 10 moves away from the center of the rotating body 5.

[0060] Figure 8(c) shows the state in which the coin 10 moves toward the dispensing port 4 as the rotating body 5 rotates, and comes into contact with the fixed roller 15 and the movable roller 16. Pushed by the pushing piece 25, the coin 10 moves toward the dispensing port 4 and away from the control pin 13. When the coin 10 is not in contact with the fixed roller 15 and the movable roller 16, the distance between the fixed roller 15 and the movable roller 16 is smaller than the diameter of the coin 10. However, as the rotating body 5 rotates, the movable roller 16 is pushed by the coin 10, and the distance between the fixed roller 15 and the movable roller 16 widens. Since the movable roller 16 can move toward the fixed roller 15, the coin 10 can move toward the dispensing port 4. A force is applied to the pushing piece 25 that pushes the movable roller 16.

[0061] Figure 8(d) shows the state in which the coin 10 is moving between the fixed roller 15 and the movable roller 16 towards the dispensing opening 4. When the coin 10 is in contact with both the fixed roller 15 and the movable roller 16 and is further pushed by the pushing piece 25, the movable roller 16 moves away from the fixed roller 15. The coin 10 then moves further towards the dispensing opening 4, passing between the fixed roller 15 and the movable roller 16.

[0062] Figure 8(e) shows the state where the distance between the fixed roller 15 and the movable roller 16 is equal to the diameter of the coin 10. The coin 10 is pushed by the pushing piece 25 until it moves further in the four directions of the dispensing outlet and the distance between the fixed roller 15 and the movable roller 16 exceeds the diameter of the coin 10.

[0063] Since the outer circumferential end of the rotating body 5 of the pushing piece 25 comes into contact with the coin 10, the reaction force when the coin 10 is pushed is applied to the end of the pushing piece 25. In other words, a strong force is applied to the pushing piece 25, so if the pushing piece 25 is made of resin, it will deform and wear down. For example, if the edge of the coin 10 hits the resin part hard, the resin part may be scraped away.

[0064] Figure 8(f) shows the state in which the coin 10 has moved away from the pushing piece 25 and is moving toward the dispensing port 4. The moving roller 16 is biased by a spring in the direction toward the fixed roller 15. The coin 10 is pushed by the pushing piece 25 until the distance between the fixed roller 15 and the moving roller 16 is equal to the diameter of the coin 10. Beyond that point, the coin 10 is pushed by the moving roller 16 and moves toward the dispensing port 4. The moving roller 16 moves toward the fixed roller 15 while pressing the side of the coin 10. The moving roller 16 returns to its original position.

[0065] Since the movable roller 16 is biased by a spring in the direction toward the fixed roller 15, the movable roller 16 moves toward the fixed roller 15 due to the biasing force of the spring. The coin 10 is pushed by the movable roller 16 and pushed toward the dispensing opening 4. The discharge sensor 14 also detects that the coin 10 has passed.

[0066] The end of the pushing piece 25 that contacts the rotating body 5 is designated as the first end, and the end that is further away from the center is designated as the second end. When the coin 10 is in contact only with the control pin 13 on the side closer to the center of the rotating body 5, the first end of the pushing piece 25 makes contact. When the coin 10 is in contact only with the control pin 13 on the side further from the center of the rotating body 5, the second end of the pushing piece 25 makes contact. That is, in a top view, the surface of the pushing piece 25 that contacts the coin 10 is positioned in a direction intersecting the line passing through the center of the rotating body 5. As the rotating body 5 rotates, the contact position between the pushing piece 25 and the coin 10 moves from the direction of the center of rotation of the rotating body 5 to the direction away from the center of rotation. The coin 10 moves away from the center of rotation as the rotating body 5 rotates. Since the control pin 13 is positioned in a predetermined location on the base 7, when the coin 10 is transported to this predetermined location, its direction of movement is changed and it is ejected.

[0067] The pushing piece 25, at the position where it contacts the control pin 13, changes the direction of movement of the coin 10 from the direction of rotation of the rotating body 5 to the direction between the fixed roller 15 and the movable roller 16. As a result, a force is applied to the coin 10 in a direction intersecting the direction of rotation of the rotating body 5. Depending on the direction of the applied force, the rotation of the rotating body 5 may stop, causing a jam. In the worst case, the parts may be damaged.

[0068] Furthermore, the length of the surface of the pushing piece 25 that contacts the coin 10 is smaller than the distance between the two control pins 13. That is, as the rotating body 5 rotates, the pushing piece 25 passes between the two control pins 13. Also, since the end of the surface of the pushing piece 25 that contacts the coin 10 is in contact with the coin 10, a strong force is applied to the end. For this reason, it is preferable to use a metal, especially a hard metal such as an iron alloy such as stainless steel, a titanium alloy, or an aluminum alloy.

[0069] Next, we will describe a coin processing device. Figure 9 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a coin processing device.

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

[0071] The coin processing device 50 consists of a separation unit 51, an identification unit 52, and a sorting unit 53. Coins 10 of different denominations are introduced into the storage container 60 in a mixed state. The separation unit 51 passes the coins 10 one by one to the identification unit 52. The identification unit 52 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 52 to the sorting unit 53. The sorting unit 53 stores the identified coins 10 into the corresponding coin hopper 1.

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

[0073] Coins 10 whose denomination has been identified are either stored in one of the four coin hoppers 1, or guided to the reject passage 61 and discharged into the payout tray 62. 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 59 from multiple coin hoppers 1 arranged in a row. In other words, the discharge belt 59 can also be said to be a coin receiving section that receives the coins 10 discharged from multiple coin hoppers 1 arranged in a row. By rotating the discharge belt 59, the coins 10 can be collected in one place.

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

[0075] Next, a second example of a rotating body will be described using Figures 10 to 14. The second rotating body 70 can be applied to the rotating body of the coin hopper described above. Figure 10 is a perspective view illustrating the second example of a rotating body.

[0076] The second rotating body 70 sandwiches a second metal part, which is a metal rotating body described later, between two resin rotating bodies, the third resin part 72 and the fourth resin part 73. The resin rotating bodies are preferably made of plastics that are easy to process and highly durable, such as engineering plastics. The material of the metal rotating body is preferably a metal that is easy to process and highly durable, such as an iron alloy, titanium alloy, or aluminum alloy.

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

[0078] The fourth resin part 73 is provided with a wall portion 76 that is erected along its outer circumference. The wall portion 76 is provided with a plurality of locking projections 75. The locking projections 75 hook onto predetermined positions on the outer circumference of the third resin part 72, fixing the third resin part 72 and the fourth resin part 73 together. The fourth resin part 73 is provided with an discharge groove 27 through which coins discharged from each separation hole 6 pass.

[0079] Downstream of the second rotating body 70 in the rotational direction of the separation hole 6, there is a reversing piece 26 that contacts the coin when the second rotating body 70 is rotated in the reverse direction. The discharge groove 27 allows the coin to move from the inner circumference to the outer circumference of the wall portion 76.

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

[0081] The third shaft hole 83 at the rotation center of the second metal part 74 is through which the rotation shaft is inserted. The second metal part 74 has metal plate arms that radiate in three directions at equal intervals around the third shaft hole 83 between adjacent separation holes 6. Each of the metal plate arms extending in the three directions has a bent portion that is bent at approximately a right angle at its tip. The bent portions are the second pressing piece 77 and the third pressing piece 78 that press the coin. The second pressing piece 77 is inserted into the second pressing piece hole 79 that penetrates both sides of the fourth resin part 73, and its tip protrudes from the back side of the fourth resin part 73. The third pressing piece 78 is inserted into the third pressing piece hole 80 that penetrates both sides of the fourth resin part 73, and its tip protrudes from the back side of the fourth resin part 73.

[0082] An outer peripheral through-hole 82 is provided along the base of the wall portion 76 of the fourth resin portion 73. The outer peripheral through-hole 82 is a through-hole that penetrates both the front and back surfaces of the fourth resin portion 73. The outer peripheral through-hole 82 is provided at a position corresponding to the locking projection 75. This makes the wall portion 76 more flexible when the third resin portion 72 is hooked onto the locking projection 75, thereby preventing damage.

[0083] Two locking protrusions 75 are positioned between adjacent separation holes 6. A third pushing piece 78 is positioned between adjacent locking protrusions 75. The rotation center of the second metal part 74 of the second rotating body 70 is fixed to the rotation axis.

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

[0085] The fourth resin part 73 is provided with a seventh through-hole 102 at a position corresponding to the fifth through-hole 84. The seventh through-hole 102 is a through-hole that penetrates both the front and back surfaces of the fourth resin part 73. The projections, described later, fit into the fifth through-hole 84 and the seventh through-hole 102, and the rotational looseness of the second metal part 74 and the fourth resin part 73 is prevented by the projections.

[0086] The fourth resin part 73 is provided with a second shaft hole 87. The second shaft hole 87 is provided with a rotation stop hole 88. A rotating shaft is inserted into the second shaft hole 87, and a rotation stop lever fixed perpendicularly to the rotating shaft is fitted into the rotation stop hole 88. The rotating shaft and the fourth resin part 73 are fixed so that the rotation of the fourth resin part 73 is linked to the rotation of the rotating shaft. Alternatively, the rotation of the rotating shaft may be transmitted to the fourth resin part 73 by making the cross-section of the rotating shaft non-circular and making the rotation stop hole 88 a corresponding shape.

[0087] Next, the third resin part 72 will be described. Figure 13 is a third diagram illustrating the structure of an example of the second rotating body.

[0088] The front side of the third resin part 72 is provided with a stirring section 12. The back side of the third resin part 72 is provided with a second recess 89 for housing the second metal part 74. The second recess 89 is formed to conform to the outer shape of the second metal part 74.

[0089] The rotation center of the third resin part 72 is provided with a fourth shaft hole 93. The rotation shaft is inserted into the fourth shaft hole 93.

[0090] The second recess 89 is provided with three third positioning protrusions 90. The third positioning protrusions 90 are positioned to correspond to the fifth through hole 84 of the second metal part 74 and the seventh through hole 102 of the fourth resin part 73, and fit into the respective holes. The third positioning protrusions 90 fit into the fifth through hole 84 and the seventh through hole 102, and rotational play between the third resin part 72, the fourth resin part 73, and the second metal part 74 is prevented by the third positioning protrusions 90. The second rotating body 70 rotates as a single unit of the three members. The cross-section of the third positioning protrusions 90 is circular, but it is not limited to this shape; it may also be polygonal or elliptical, but a shape that is easy to process is preferred.

[0091] A locking recess 92 is provided on the circumferential surface 91, which is the side surface of the third resin part 72. The locking recess 92 is positioned to correspond to the locking projection 75. The locking projection 75 and the locking recess 92 engage, fixing the third resin part 72 and the fourth resin part 73 together. The second metal part 74 is sandwiched and fixed between the third resin part 72 and the fourth resin part 73. The second rotating body 70 can be easily assembled and disassembled. The locking recess 92 is a contact part that abuts against the locking projection 75, and the locking projection 75 can also be said to be a contact part that abuts against the locking recess 92.

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

[0093] The fourth resin part 73 is positioned on the back side of the second rotating body 70. The back side of the fourth resin part 73 is provided with grooves to avoid the control pin when the second rotating body 70 rotates. The first relief groove 100 and the second relief groove 101 of the fourth resin part 73 are grooves through which the control pin passes without contact. To form these grooves, the fourth resin part 73 is provided with a second central protrusion 97, a second inner circumferential protrusion 98, and a second outer circumferential protrusion 99.

[0094] The second inner circumferential protrusion 98 is positioned between the first relief groove 100 and the second relief groove 101. The second inner circumferential protrusion 98 is positioned upstream of the second pushing piece 77 in the rotational direction of the second rotating body 70. The second inner circumferential protrusion 98 is adjacent to the second pushing piece 77 and resists the force when the second pushing piece 77 comes into contact with a coin, preventing deformation of the second pushing piece 77.

[0095] A seventh through-hole 102 is located in the second inner circumferential protrusion 98. The seventh through-hole 102 is positioned on the upstream side of the second rotating body 70 in the direction of rotation of the second pushing piece 77, and the third positioning projection 90 fits into the seventh through-hole 102. When a coin is pushed by the second pushing piece 77, the greatest force is applied to the upstream side of the second rotating body 70 in the direction of rotation of the second pushing piece 77. Therefore, the third positioning projection 90 is provided on the upstream side of the second rotating body 70 in the direction of rotation of the second pushing piece 77. The third positioning projection 90 firmly connects the third resin part 72, the fourth resin part 73, and the second metal part 74 so that they do not shift relative to each other.

[0096] A second push-hole 79 is provided adjacent to the second inner circumferential protrusion 98 on the downstream side of the second rotating body 70 in the direction of rotation of the second inner circumferential protrusion 98. A first buffer portion 94 is provided on the side of the second inner circumferential protrusion 98 on the direction of the rotation center of the second rotating body 70 on the second push-hole 79. A third push-hole 80 is provided adjacent to the second outer circumferential protrusion 99 on the downstream side of the second rotating body 70 in the direction of rotation of the second outer circumferential protrusion 99. A second buffer portion 95 and a third buffer portion 96 are provided on the side of the third push-hole 80 of the second outer circumferential protrusion 99 on the direction of the rotation center of the second rotating body 70 and on the outer circumferential side.

[0097] The first buffer portion 94 prevents the coin from contacting the edge of the second pressing piece 77. The coin may be scratched if it comes into contact with the edge of the second pressing piece 77. The first buffer portion 94 covers the edge on the side that the coin first contacts with the second pressing piece 77 when the second rotating body 70 rotates. This is because this part is prone to scratching the coin. In this example, it covers one side of the edge of the second pressing piece 77, but it may cover both sides. The second buffer portion 95 and the third buffer portion 96 cover the edges on both sides of the third pressing piece 78, preventing the edge from coming into contact with the coin. The first buffer portion 94, the second buffer portion 95, and the third buffer portion 96 do not press the coin with strong force, so they can be made of resin.

[0098] The second shaft hole 87 is wider than the third shaft hole 83. Therefore, the area around the third shaft hole 83 of the second metal part 74 is exposed from the second shaft hole 87. The second metal part 74 is fixed in contact with the rotating shaft. By fixing the area around the third shaft hole 83 in contact with a predetermined position on the rotating shaft, the distance between the second metal part 74 and the base can be kept constant. The parts are fixed in contact with predetermined positions. An example is shown in which a projection is arranged on the third resin part 72 and a through hole is arranged on the fourth resin part 73, but a configuration in which a through hole is arranged on the third resin part 72 and a projection is arranged on the fourth resin part 73 is also acceptable.

[0099] Next, a third example of a rotating body will be described using Figures 15 to 18. The third rotating body 110 can be applied to the rotating body of the coin hopper described above. First, the external shape of the third rotating body 110 will be described using Figures 15 and 18. Figure 15 is a top view illustrating an example of the third rotating body. Figure 15 is a view of the third rotating body 110 from directly above. Figure 18 is a perspective view of the reverse side illustrating an example of the third rotating body.

[0100] The third rotating body 110 has three separation holes 6. Stirring protrusions 71 extend radially from the stirring section 12 to the upper surface of the third rotating body 110.

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

[0102] The second locking recess 115 is located on the outer circumference of the fifth resin portion 111 and is provided between adjacent separation holes 6, sandwiching the stirring projection 71.

[0103] From a predetermined position on the sixth resin part 112, the fourth pushing piece 116 and the fifth pushing piece 117 protrude to the reverse side and push the coin.

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

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

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

[0107] Next, the interior of the third rotating body 110 will be described. Figure 16 is the first diagram illustrating the structure of an example of the third rotating body. It is a perspective view showing the fifth resin part 111 and the third metal part 113 fixed together.

[0108] The back side of the fifth resin part 111 is provided with a recess for housing the third metal part 113, and the third metal part 113 is housed in the recess. The recess is provided with a fourth positioning projection 119. The recess is also provided with a second locking recess 115.

[0109] The third metal part 113 is provided with a fifth shaft hole 118 at its center of rotation. A rotating shaft is inserted into and fixed in the fifth shaft hole 118. Arms extend radially from the fifth shaft hole 118 of the third metal part 113 in three directions at equal angles. The third metal part 113 is provided with a through hole into which a fourth positioning projection 119 is fitted. The tip side of the third metal part 113 is provided with a fourth pushing piece 116 and a fifth pushing piece 117.

[0110] Next, the interior of the third rotating body 110 will be described from a different perspective. Figure 17 is a second diagram illustrating the structure of an example of the third rotating body. It is a perspective view showing the sixth resin part 112 and the third metal part 113 fixed together.

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

[0112] The sixth resin part 112 is provided with a second locking projection 114. The second locking projection 114 is a snap-fit ​​and engages with the second locking recess 115 to fix the fifth resin part 111 and the sixth resin part 112. The second locking projection 114 and the second locking recess 115 have contact portions that abut against each other. In addition, the third metal part 113 has an eighth through hole 121 positioned to correspond to the fourth positioning projection 119.

[0113] Next, a fourth example of a rotating body will be described using Figures 19 and 20. The fourth rotating body 140 can be applied to the rotating body of the coin hopper described above. The fourth rotating body 140 is an example in which the pushing pieces are divided rather than being a single unit and arranged for each separation hole. Figure 19 is the first diagram illustrating the structure of the example of the fourth rotating body. Figure 19 shows an example of divided pushing pieces. Figure 20 is the second diagram illustrating the structure of the example of the fourth rotating body. Figure 20 shows an example of a rotating body that fixes the divided pushing pieces.

[0114] The fourth metal part 130 is cut out from the portion of the third metal part 113 described in Figures 16 and 17 that includes the fourth pushing piece 116, the fifth pushing piece 117, and the eighth through hole 121. The fourth metal part 130 is formed by bending sheet metal to create the fourth pushing piece 116 and the fifth pushing piece 117, and by drilling a hole in the sheet metal to create the eighth through hole 121. By making the part smaller by using multiple pushing pieces, material can be saved. However, the manufacturing process becomes more complex because multiple parts are assembled.

[0115] The fourth rotating body 140 sandwiches the fourth metal part 130 between the seventh resin part 141 and the eighth resin part 142. The fourth pushing piece 116 and the fifth pushing piece protrude from the back side of the fourth rotating body 140.

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

[0117] The seventh resin part 141 has a projection similar to the fourth positioning projection 119 described in Figures 16 and 17, located in a recess of the seventh resin part 141 that houses the fourth metal part 130. When the fourth metal part 130 is housed in the recess, the eighth through hole 121 fits into the fourth positioning projection 119. The fourth metal part 130 is prevented from rattling in the rotational direction of the fourth rotating body 140 by the fourth positioning projection 119.

[0118] The eighth resin part 142 is provided with four locking projections and locking recesses similar to the second locking projection 114 and second locking recess 115 described in Figures 16 and 17. The seventh resin part 141 is provided with a locking recess at a position corresponding to the second locking projection 114. When the second locking projection 114 engages with the locking recess, the seventh resin part 141 and the eighth resin part 142 are fixed together, sandwiching the fourth metal part 130 between them. [Industrial applicability]

[0119] This invention can be used in a coin hopper that dispenses coins one at a time, and in a coin processing device equipped with a coin hopper. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0120] 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 Motor 12. Stirring section 13 control pins 14. Discharge sensor 15 Fixed rollers 16 Mobile rollers 17 Exterior Wall 18. Agitator blade 20. First resin part 21 Second resin part 22 Metal parts 23 Shaft hole 24 Shaft locking groove 25 Push piece 26 Reversal Piece 27 Discharge groove 28 First step section 29 Second step section 30 Pushing piece holes 31 Recess 32 Outer peripheral protrusion 33 Positioning protrusion 34 Central protrusion 35 Inner Circumferential Convexity 36 Base 37 Locking fitting groove 38 First through hole 39 Second through hole 40 Third through hole 41 Fourth through hole 42 Locking fitting protrusion 43 Thick part 44 Arm side 50 Coin Processing Units 51 Separation part 52 Identification unit 53 Sorting section 54 Transport pins 55 Distribution Flap 56 Slider 57 Guide Route 58 rails 59. Discharge belt 60 Storage containers 61 Rejection Passage 62 Withdrawal Trays 75 Locking protrusion 76 Wall 77 2nd push piece 78 3rd push piece 91 Peripheral surface 92 Locking recess 94 1st buffer section 95 Second buffer section 96 Third buffer section

Claims

1. A container for storing coins, A base that supports the aforementioned coin, A rotating body having multiple separation holes for holding each of the aforementioned coins, fixed to a rotating shaft, and positioned opposite the base, 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 rotating body comprises a first resin part made of resin, a second resin part made of resin, and a metal part having arms that extend radially from the center outward to the outer circumference corresponding to the separation hole. The arm has a pushing piece formed by bending the edge of the arm, The first resin part is arranged in correspondence with the pressing piece and has a pressing piece hole through which the pressing piece is inserted. The metal part is positioned between the first resin part and the second resin part, and is fixed to the first resin part by fitting the pushing piece into the pushing piece hole. A coin hopper characterized by pushing the coin with the pushing piece exposed from the first resin part.

2. The coin hopper according to claim 1, characterized in that the surface of the pressing piece that contacts the coin is flat.

3. 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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