Chip dispenser

Abstract

A chip dispenser and a method of operating the chip dispenser are disclosed. The disclosed chip dispenser may comprise: a chip case including a base unit and a cover unit capable of being coupled to the base unit, wherein the base unit and the cover unit are configured to define a cylindrical accommodation area, a plurality of chips are accommodated in the accommodation area, and the chip case is provided with a pusher inlet and a chip outlet for discharging the chips; and a dispensing device on which the chip case is mounted, the dispensing device comprising a pusher member capable of entering and exiting the pusher inlet and a driving unit for driving the pusher member, and the dispensing device being configured to enable linear reciprocating movements of the pusher member by means of the driving unit. In a state in which the chip case is mounted on the dispensing device, the pusher member may be moved into the pusher inlet to push a chip inside the chip case, thereby discharging the chip through the chip outlet.

Description

chip dispenser

[0001] The present invention relates to a mechanical device, and more particularly to a chip dispenser.

[0002] A device for dispensing chips or coins may be used in casino facilities, gaming rooms, or financial institutions.

[0003] In the case of a conventional chip dispenser, a structure (a type of chip storage container) may be included in which a plurality of tubular cylinders having an internal storage space are arranged adjacent to each other and in parallel, and chips can be discharged from the tubular cylinder while being placed therein. However, since the tubular cylinder is configured to input chips through an opening at its end, chips of each type must be input one by one, which causes problems such as reduced workability, increased work time, and increased costs.

[0004] Furthermore, existing chip dispensers have the disadvantage of easily damaging chips during the chip ejection process. Chips made of plastic, etc., are randomly stacked and moved horizontally through a designated passageway, which can easily cause damage due to friction between stacked chips. In casinos and other gaming environments, chips, which can be highly valuable depending on the type, can be manufactured with considerable precision. Damaged chips require periodic replacement, which can increase maintenance costs.

[0005] The technical problem to be achieved by the present invention is to provide a chip dispenser that can significantly improve the workability of chip injection and reduce work labor and time consumption.

[0006] In addition, the technical problem to be achieved by the present invention is to provide a chip dispenser that can accurately and easily discharge chips while suppressing (minimizing) damage to the chips.

[0007] In addition, a technical problem to be achieved by the present invention is to provide components of the chip dispenser.

[0008] In addition, a technical problem to be achieved by the present invention is to provide a method for operating the chip dispenser.

[0009] The problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0010] According to embodiments of the present invention for achieving the above-described object, a chip dispenser for dispensing chips is provided, comprising: a chip case comprising a base portion and a cover portion connectable with the base portion, wherein the base portion and the cover portion are configured to define a cylindrical receiving area, wherein a plurality of chips are received within the receiving area, and the chip case has a chip discharge port and a pusher inlet for discharging the chips; and a dispensing device on which the chip case is mounted, the device comprising a pusher member that can enter and exit the pusher inlet port and a driving unit for driving the pusher member, and the drive unit is configured to enable linear reciprocating movement of the pusher member; wherein, in a state in which the chip case is mounted on the dispensing device, the pusher member is introduced into the pusher inlet port to push chips inside the chip case, thereby discharging the chips through the chip discharge port.

[0011] A hinge member may be provided between the base part and the cover part, and the base part and the cover part may be configured to be opened and closed in a rotational manner by the hinge member.

[0012] The above base portion and the above cover portion can be configured to be joined and opened and closed in a sliding manner.

[0013] The pusher inlet may be provided at the bottom of one of the base portion and the cover portion, and the chip discharge port may be provided at the bottom of the other of the base portion and the cover portion.

[0014] The pusher inlet and the chip discharge outlet may be provided at the bottom of the base portion.

[0015] A plurality of first receiving grooves parallel to each other may be provided in the base portion, a plurality of second receiving grooves parallel to each other may be provided in the cover portion, and the cylindrical receiving area may be formed by the first receiving grooves and the second receiving grooves corresponding to the first receiving grooves.

[0016] The above cover portion may be configured to cover the open front area of ​​the base portion.

[0017] The above driving member may include a motor member that rotates the rotary shaft member, and the dispensing device may include a power transmission structure for converting the rotary motion of the rotary shaft member into a linear reciprocating motion of the pusher member.

[0018] The power transmission structure may include a rotary plate coupled to the rotary shaft member and rotated therewith; a first support member coupled to the rotary plate; a second support member coupled to the pusher member; and a connecting member arranged to connect the first and second support members.

[0019] The above dispensing device may include a support structure, and the support structure may have a first guide hole for guiding movement of the pusher member and a second guide hole for guiding movement of the second support member.

[0020] The above dispensing device may further include a sensor unit for detecting the position of the pusher member.

[0021] The dispensing device may be configured to discharge one chip per cycle by moving the position of the pusher member by driving the drive member when the pusher member is detected by the sensor unit, and thus, the pusher member becomes undetected by the sensor unit, and when the position of the pusher member moves and the pusher member becomes detected by the sensor unit again, and the drive unit stops driving.

[0022] According to embodiments of the present invention, a chip dispenser can be implemented that significantly improves chip loading efficiency and reduces labor and time consumption. Furthermore, according to embodiments of the present invention, a chip dispenser can be implemented that accurately and easily discharges chips while suppressing (minimizing) damage to the chips.

[0023] Therefore, by using the chip dispenser according to the embodiments, workability can be improved, related costs / time can be reduced, accurate dispensing work can be ensured, and maintenance costs can be reduced.

[0024] In addition, a chip case can be used to efficiently load a fixed amount of chips, and the chip case and the driving unit for discharging the chips are separated, so that the division of work between the department that manages the chips and the department that replaces the chip case while managing the chip dispenser can be clearly defined.

[0025] However, the effects of the present invention are not limited to the above effects, and can be expanded in various ways without departing from the technical spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0026] FIGS. 1 to 4 are perspective views illustrating a chip case that can be applied to a chip dispenser according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 5 is a photographic image exemplarily showing a chip case according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 6 is a perspective view exemplarily showing a chip case that can be applied to a chip dispenser according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Fig. 7 shows a modified example of the first receiving groove (G11) shown in Fig. 6.

[0030] Figure 8 is a drawing showing a base part (11) to which the first receiving grooves (G11) shown in Figure 7 are applied.

[0031] FIGS. 9 to 12 are perspective views illustrating a dispensing apparatus that can be applied to a chip dispenser according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIGS. 13 and 14 are photographic images exemplarily showing a dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIGS. 15 to 18 are perspective views illustrating a chip dispenser including a chip case and a dispensing device that are mutually coupled, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 19 is a drawing showing an outlet sensor (260) that may be included in a dispensing device (200).

[0035] * Symbol explanation for major parts of the drawing *

[0036] 2: Fastening element 4: Corresponding fastening element

[0037] 5: Hinge member 7a, 7b: Handle part

[0038] 9: Fastening member 10, 11: Base part

[0039] 20, 21: Cover part 100: Chip case

[0040] 100': Chip case G10, G11: 1st receiving groove

[0041] G20, G21: 2nd receiving groove h10: Insertion hole

[0042] H1: 1st guide hole H2: 2nd guide hole

[0043] N10, N11: Pusher inlet T10, T11: Chip discharge outlet

[0044] 200: Dispensing device 210: Pusher member

[0045] 220: Drive unit 225: Rotating shaft member

[0046] 235: First supporting part 240: Connection part

[0047] 245: Second support section 250: Sensor section

[0048] 261: Corresponding fastening member 262: Protrusion

[0049] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0050] The embodiments of the present invention described below are provided to more clearly explain the present invention to a person having ordinary skill in the art, and the scope of the present invention is not limited by the following embodiments, and the following embodiments can be modified in various other forms.

[0051] The terminology used herein is used to describe particular embodiments and is not intended to limit the present invention. The singular forms used herein may include the plural forms unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In addition, the terms "comprise" and / or "comprising" used herein specify the presence of a stated feature, step, number, operation, element, element, and / or group thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, numbers, operations, elements, elements, and / or groups thereof. In addition, the term "connected" used herein not only means that certain elements are directly connected, but also includes a concept that indirectly connects elements by interposing another element between them.

[0052] In addition, when it is said in this specification that a certain element is located "on" another element, this includes not only cases where a certain element is in contact with another element, but also cases where another element exists between the two elements. The term "and / or" as used in this specification includes any one of the listed items and any and all combinations of one or more of them. In addition, terms of degree such as "about", "substantially", etc. as used in this specification are used to mean a range of or close to the numerical value or degree, taking into account inherent manufacturing and material tolerances, and are used to prevent infringers from unfairly using the disclosure that mentions exact or absolute numbers provided to help the understanding of this specification.

[0053] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. The sizes and thicknesses of areas or parts depicted in the attached drawings may be somewhat exaggerated for clarity and convenience of explanation. Like reference numbers designate like components throughout the detailed description.

[0054] FIGS. 1 to 4 are perspective views illustrating a chip case (100) that can be applied to a chip dispenser according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, the chip case (100) may be referred to as a chip storage container or chip cassette for storing chips. Here, the "chip" may be a coin-shaped chip used in casino facilities or game rooms. Alternatively, the "chip" may be a coin having a shape similar to a general chip, or an item corresponding thereto or similar thereto. Therefore, in this specification, the "chip" may be a term encompassing general chips, coins, etc. The "chip" may be a dispensing object.

[0056] The chip case (100) may include a base portion (10) and a cover portion (20) coupled (or coupled) to the base portion (10). The cover portion (20) may be configured to cover an open area (front area) of the base portion (10). The base portion (10) and the cover portion (20) may be configured to define a cylindrical receiving area, and a plurality of chips may be accommodated within the receiving area. The plurality of cylindrical receiving areas may be arranged in parallel, for example, in a row.

[0057] According to one embodiment, a plurality of first receiving grooves (G10) that are parallel to each other may be provided in the base portion (10), and a plurality of second receiving grooves (G20) that are parallel to each other may be provided in the cover portion (20). Each of the plurality of first receiving grooves (G10) and each of the plurality of second receiving grooves (G20) that correspond thereto may form the cylindrical receiving area. When the chip dispenser according to the embodiment is used, the plurality of cylindrical receiving areas may be arranged vertically. The cylindrical receiving area may be said to have a cylindrical shape.

[0058] The chip case (100) may be provided with a chip discharge port (T10) and a pusher inlet port (N10) for discharging the chips. Here, the pusher inlet port (N10) may be an area (a type of opening) into which a pusher member (210 of FIGS. 7 to 9) to be described later is introduced. In other words, the pusher member can enter and exit through the pusher inlet port (N10). The pusher inlet port (N10) may be connected to the bottom and side of the cylindrical receiving area described above, and the chip discharge port (T10) may also be connected to the bottom and side of the cylindrical receiving area described above. When the pusher member is introduced into the pusher inlet port (N10), it pushes the chips inside the chip case (100), so that the chips can be discharged through the chip discharge port (T10).

[0059] According to one embodiment, a pusher inlet (N10) may be provided at the lower end or an adjacent area of ​​one of the base portion (10) and the cover portion (20), and a chip discharge port (T10) may be provided at the lower end or an adjacent area of ​​the other of the base portion (10) and the cover portion (20). In the present embodiment, a chip discharge port (T10) may be provided at the lower end or an adjacent area of ​​the cover portion (20), and a pusher inlet port (N10) may be provided at the lower end or an adjacent area of ​​the base portion (10). A plurality of chip discharge ports (T10) and a plurality of pusher inlets (N10) corresponding thereto may be provided.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the lower portion of the cover portion (20) may have a recessed shape at the chip discharge port (T10). For example, a concave recessed portion in a semicircular shape or a similar shape may be provided at the chip discharge port (T10) at the lower portion of the cover portion (20), and a portion of the lower surface of the lowest chip accommodated in the accommodation area may be exposed by the recessed portion. Accordingly, friction during chip discharge can be further reduced, and chip discharge can be made easier. The recessed portion may be considered to be included in the chip discharge port (T10).

[0061] According to one embodiment, at least one hinge member (5) may be provided between the base part (10) and the cover part (20). The base part (10) and the cover part (20) may be interconnected (coupled) by the hinge member (5). The base part (10) and the cover part (20) may be configured to be opened and closed by rotation by the hinge member (5). That is, the cover part (20) may be rotated around the hinge member (5) as a rotation center to cover an open one-sided area (front area) of the base part (10). Such a chip case (100) may be referred to as a hinge-type case.

[0062] According to one embodiment, a plurality of insertion holes (h10) may be provided on the lower surface of the chip case (100). The plurality of insertion holes (h10) may be provided on the lower surface of the base portion (10) and the lower surface of the cover portion (20). The plurality of insertion holes (h10) may be holes into which a plurality of protrusions (262 of FIGS. 7 to 9) of a dispensing device to be described later are inserted. By inserting the protrusions into the insertion holes (h10), alignment of the chip case (100) and the dispensing device can be more easily achieved.

[0063] According to one embodiment, a fastening element (2) may be provided on the outer side of the base portion (10), and a corresponding fastening element (4) may be provided on the outer side of the cover portion (20). In a state where the cover portion (20) covers the base portion (10), the fastening element (2) and the corresponding fastening element (4) may be fastened (coupled) to each other. If necessary, a locking device (fixing device) (not shown) for fixing this fastening may be further provided. The position, structure, fastening principle, etc. of the fastening element (2) and the corresponding fastening element (4) are not limited to those shown, and may be variously changed.

[0064] According to one embodiment, a fastening member (9) may be provided on both sides of the chip case (100). The fastening member (9) may be placed on both sides of the chip case (100) while the cover part (20) covers the base part (10). The fastening member (9) may be fastened to a corresponding fastening member (261 of FIGS. 7 to 10) of a dispensing device to be described later. Accordingly, a firm fastening (bonding) may be achieved between the chip case (100) and the dispensing device.

[0065] According to one embodiment, a handle portion (7a, 7b) may be provided on the upper surface of at least one of the base portion (10) and the cover portion (20). As a non-limiting example, a first handle portion (7a) may be provided on the upper surface of the base portion (10), and a second handle portion (7b) may be provided on the upper surface of the cover portion (20). When the cover portion (20) covers the base portion (10), the first and second handle portions (7a, 7b) may form one handle.

[0066] According to an embodiment of the present invention, for example, a plurality of chips can be aligned and placed in the first receiving groove (G10) while the chip case (100) is unfolded and laid down, and after filling the plurality of first receiving grooves (G10) with the chips, the cover part (20) can be closed to cover the front area of ​​the base part (10). Therefore, the workability of chip insertion can be greatly improved and labor and time consumption can be reduced. Fig. 5 is a photographic image exemplarily showing a chip case (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Referring to Fig. 5, the structure of the chip case (100) in which the base part (10) is covered with the cover part (20) can be confirmed. The reference numbers shown in Fig. 5 may be the same as those described with reference to Figs. 1 to 4. The pusher member (210 of Figs. 7 to 9) mentioned above is introduced into the pusher inlet (N10) to push the chip (the bottommost chip) inside the chip case (100), thereby allowing the chip to be discharged through the chip discharge port (T10).

[0068] FIG. 6 is a perspective view exemplarily showing a chip case (100') that can be applied to a chip dispenser according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Referring to Fig. 6, the chip case (100') may include a base portion (11) and a cover portion (21) that can be coupled with the base portion (11). The cover portion (21) may be configured to cover an open one-sided area (front area) of the base portion (11).

[0070] According to the present embodiment, the base part (11) and the cover part (21) can be configured to be coupled and opened and closed in a sliding manner. The cover part (21) can be coupled to the base part (11) in a sliding manner from above the base part (11) in the longitudinal direction of the base part (11). Although not illustrated, guide grooves and protrusions, etc. for coupling and opening and closing in a sliding manner may be provided in the base part (11) and the cover part (21). In addition, a locking device (fixing device) (not illustrated) for fixing the coupling of the base part (11) with the cover part (21) in a state where the base part (11) is covered may be provided in various ways. As a non-limiting example, the base part (11) may be composed of an ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) or AL (aluminum) material, and the cover part (21) may be composed of a transparent PC (polycarbonate). However, the materials of the base part (11) and the cover part (21) may be variously changed. Additionally, the cover portion (21) may be transparent, translucent or opaque.

[0071] The base portion (11) and the cover portion (21) may be configured to define a cylindrical receiving area, and a plurality of chips may be received within the receiving area. The plurality of cylindrical receiving areas may be arranged in parallel, for example, in a row. According to one embodiment, the base portion (11) may be provided with a plurality of first receiving grooves (G11) that are parallel to each other, and the cover portion (21) may be provided with a plurality of second receiving grooves (G21) that are parallel to each other. Each of the plurality of first receiving grooves (G11) and each of the plurality of second receiving grooves (G21) that correspond thereto may form the cylindrical receiving area. When the chip dispenser according to the embodiment is used, the plurality of cylindrical receiving areas may be arranged vertically. The cylindrical receiving areas may have a cylindrical shape.

[0072] The chip case (100') may be provided with a chip discharge port (T11) and a pusher inlet port (N11) for discharging the chips. Here, the pusher inlet port (N11) may be an area (a type of opening) into which a pusher member (210 of FIGS. 7 to 9) to be described later is introduced. The pusher inlet port (N11) may be connected to the bottom and side of the cylindrical receiving area described above, and the chip discharge port (T11) may also be connected to the bottom and side of the cylindrical receiving area described above. When the pusher member is introduced into the pusher inlet port (N11), it pushes the chips inside the chip case (100'), so that the chips can be discharged through the chip discharge port (T11).

[0073] According to one embodiment, a pusher inlet (N11) and a chip discharge outlet (T11) may be provided at the lower end of the base portion (11) or an area adjacent thereto. For example, a pusher inlet (N11) may be provided at the rear end of the lower end of the base portion (11), and a chip discharge outlet (T11) may be provided at the front end of the lower end of the base portion (11). A plurality of chip discharge outlets (T11) and a plurality of pusher inlets (N11) corresponding thereto may be provided. The chip discharge outlets (T11) and the pusher inlets (N11) may be arranged at positions corresponding to the lower end of the cylindrical receiving area described above.

[0074] According to an embodiment of the present invention, for example, a plurality of chips can be stacked and aligned and inserted into the first receiving groove (G11) while the base portion (11) of the chip case (100') is laid down, and after filling the plurality of first receiving grooves (G11) with the plurality of chips, the cover portion (21) can be closed to cover the front area of ​​the base portion (11). Accordingly, the workability of chip insertion can be greatly improved and labor and time consumption can be reduced.

[0075] Additionally, various additional configurations of the chip case (100) described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4 can be applied identically or similarly to the chip case (100') of FIG. 6.

[0076] Fig. 7 illustrates a modified example of the first receiving groove (G11) illustrated in Fig. 6. Referring to Fig. 7, the first receiving groove (G11) may have a 'U' shape. The first receiving grooves (G11) having a 'U' shape may be arranged in parallel, and the structure in which the first receiving grooves (G11) are arranged may be implemented as an aluminum extrusion.

[0077] Fig. 8 is a drawing showing a base portion (11) to which the first receiving grooves (G11) shown in Fig. 7 are applied. Referring to Fig. 8, the cover portion (21) shown in Fig. 6 can be implemented as a flat plate made of a transparent material. In addition, unlike that shown in Fig. 6, the cover portion (21) can open and close one side of the base portion (11) by sliding left and right.

[0078] FIGS. 9 to 11 are perspective views illustrating a dispensing apparatus (200) that can be applied to a chip dispenser according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] Referring to FIGS. 9 to 11, the dispensing device (200) may be a device to which the chip case described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8 is mounted. That is, the chip case may be mounted (coupled) to the dispensing device (200). The dispensing device (200) may include a pusher member (210) that can enter and exit through the pusher inlet (N10 of FIG. 3, N11 of FIG. 6) described above, and a driving unit (220) for driving the pusher member (210). The linear reciprocating motion of the pusher member (210) may be enabled by the driving unit (220). The linear reciprocating motion of the pusher member (210) may be, for example, performed in a horizontal direction or a substantially horizontal direction. With the chip case mounted on the dispensing device (200), the pusher member (210) is introduced into the pusher inlet (N10 of FIG. 3, N11 of FIG. 6) to push the chip inside the chip case, thereby allowing the chip to be discharged through the chip discharge port (T10 of FIG. 3, T11 of FIG. 6).

[0080] According to one embodiment, the driving unit (220) may be or include a motor unit that rotates the rotation shaft unit (225). The driving unit (220) illustrated here may be a motor unit, and the motor unit may include the rotation shaft unit (225). The motor unit may be arranged in a vertical direction, and the rotation shaft unit (225) may be arranged facing upward. For example, a plurality of driving units (220) may be arranged vertically side by side. A plurality of driving units (220) may be provided as many as the number of cylindrical receiving areas included in the chip case described above. Each driving unit (220) may be provided to correspond to each cylindrical receiving area.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the dispensing device (200) may include a 'power transmission structure' for converting the rotational motion of the rotational shaft member (225) into a linear reciprocating motion of the pusher member (210). As a specific example, the power transmission structure may include a rotation plate (230) coupled to the rotational shaft member (225) and rotated therewith, a first support member (235) coupled to the rotation plate (230), a second support member (245) coupled to the pusher member (210), and a connecting member (240) arranged to connect the first and second support members (235, 245).

[0082] The rotating plate (230) may have, for example, a circular structure. The rotating shaft member (225) may be connected (coupled) to the central portion of the rotating plate (230) from the lower portion of the rotating plate (230). The first support member (235) may be connected (coupled) to the edge of the rotating plate (230) from the upper or side of the rotating plate (230), or to the region between the central portion and the edge. The connecting portion (240) may be provided to interconnect the first and second support members (235, 245) from the upper portion of the rotating plate (230). The connecting portion (240) may have a rod or bar shape. The first support member (235) may be connected (coupled) to one end of the connecting portion (240), and the second support member (245) may be connected (coupled) to the other end of the connecting portion (240). The second support member (245) may extend upward from the connecting member (240) and be connected (coupled) to the pusher member (210). The first and second support members (235, 245) may have a vertical column, i.e., a pole shape. By the power transmission structure having such a configuration, the rotational motion of the rotational shaft member (225) may be converted into a linear reciprocating motion of the pusher member (210). However, the specific configuration of the power transmission structure may vary depending on the case. For example, the method of converting the rotational motion into the linear reciprocating motion may also be implemented in a manner such as an electric / pneumatic solenoid, a motor and a belt & pulley, a motor and a rack & pinion, etc.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the dispensing device (200) may include a first support structure (201), a second support structure (203), and a third support structure (205). The first support structure (201) may be disposed at the lower portion of the dispensing device (200). A plurality of receiving portions may be provided in the first support structure (201), and a driving portion (220) may be received and disposed in the plurality of receiving portions. The second support structure (203) may be an intermediate support portion. The second support structure (203) may have a plate shape, may be provided at the upper portion of the driving portion (220), and may have a through hole through which a rotation shaft member (225) passes. The third support structure (205) may be disposed at the upper portion of the dispensing device (200) and may serve to support a pusher member (210), etc.

[0084] A plurality of first support columns (202) connecting the first support structure (201) and the third support structure (205) may be provided, and a plurality of second support columns (204) connecting the second support structure (203) and the third support structure (205) may be provided. The first support structure (201), the second support structure (203), the third support structure (205), the first support column (202), and the second support column (204) may be combined to form a single 'support structure'. Here, the 'support structure' may also be referred to as a support frame structure or a support frame body. However, the structure, shape, connection relationship, etc. of the first support structure (201), the second support structure (203), the third support structure (205), the first support column (202), and the second support column (204) are merely exemplary and may be varied in various ways.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the third support structure (205) may have a first guide hole (H1) for guiding movement of the pusher member (210) and a second guide hole (H2) for guiding movement of the second support member (245) (see FIGS. 11 and 12). The first guide hole (H1) and the second guide hole (H2) may be formed to be in communication with each other. The first guide hole (H1) may have a first width, and the second guide hole (H2) may have a second width smaller than the first width. The second guide hole (H2) may be formed below the center portion of the first guide hole (H1).

[0086] The pusher member (210) may have a plate-shaped structure having a predetermined length and width, and its front end may have a slightly concave round shape reflecting the shape of the chip. The first guide hole (H1) may have a shape corresponding to the pusher member (210) so as to accommodate the pusher member (210). The first guide hole (H1) may have a horizontal hole structure. The pusher member (210) may protrude toward the front of the third support structure (205) or, conversely, be withdrawn according to the guide of the first guide hole (H1). In other words, the pusher member (210) may advance or retreat toward the front of the third support structure (205) according to the guide of the first guide hole (H1). Although this drawing illustrates a case where the pusher member (210) protrudes, the pusher member (210) may be placed within the first guide hole (H1) so as not to protrude toward the front of the third support structure (205).

[0087] The movement of the second support member (245) can be guided by the second guide hole (H2). The second guide hole (H2) can be formed to extend linearly (straight-linearly) along the movement direction of the pusher member (210). Accordingly, the second support member (245) can move linearly (straight-linearly) and reciprocally within the second guide hole (H2).

[0088] As the rotary plate (230) rotates, the position of the first support member (235) changes, and accordingly, the position of the second support member (245) can move. When the first support member (235) rotates, for example, to draw a circle, the second support member (245) can move linearly and reciprocally within the second guide hole (H2). As a result, the pusher member (210) coupled to the second support member (245) can linearly and reciprocally move. As the pusher member (210) linearly and reciprocally moves, chips arranged in the chip case can be discharged one by one through the chip discharge port. However, the specific operation method and configuration described herein are exemplary and may be changed as needed.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the dispensing device (200) may further include a sensor unit (250) for detecting the position of the pusher member (210). For example, the sensor unit (250) may be disposed on the upper portion of the third support structure (205) and configured to detect the position of the rear end of the pusher member (210) or a portion adjacent thereto. A plurality of sensor units (250) may be disposed to correspond to a plurality of pusher members (210). Although not illustrated, the sensor unit (250) may be connected to a controller. The controller may include a control circuit or a control board, etc. The controller may control the operation of the sensor unit (250) and collect and process the result data sensed by the sensor unit (250).

[0090] According to one embodiment, the dispensing device (200) may be configured to discharge one chip per cycle by stopping the operation of the driving unit (220) when the position of the pusher member (210) is moved by the driving unit (220) in a state where the pusher member (210) is detected by the sensor unit (250), and accordingly, the pusher member (210) is no longer detected by the sensor unit (250), and when the position of the pusher member (210) is moved and the pusher member (210) is detected again by the sensor unit (250).

[0091] When the sensor unit (250) detects the pusher member (210) every time the rotating plate (230) rotates once, the driving unit (220) can be stopped. In addition, when the rotating plate (230) rotates once, the pusher member (210) can linearly reciprocate once and one chip can be discharged. For example, as the motor rotates, it starts from a sensor detection state, then changes to a sensor non-detection state (i.e., a state in which the pusher member is inserted into the chip case), and then stops when it returns to a sensor detection state, and one chip can be discharged per such one cycle (one rotation). The sensor unit (250) can be electrically or circuit-wise connected to the driving unit (220), and the operation of the driving unit (220) can be controlled by the sensor unit (250). The sensor unit (250) can detect the position of the driving unit (220, for example, a motor, etc.). The sensor unit (250) can check whether the driving unit (220) is at a predetermined initial position before starting operation. In addition, the sensor unit (250) can check whether the driving unit (220) is operating properly. The sensor unit (250) can also be used to count the number of chip discharges.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the dispensing device (200) may further include a corresponding fastening member (261). The corresponding fastening member (261) may be provided on both side surfaces of the third support structure (205), as a non-limiting example. The corresponding fastening member (261) may be fastened (coupled) with the fastening member (9) described above in FIGS. 1 to 4. Accordingly, a firm fastening (coupled) may be achieved between the dispensing device (200) and the chip case.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the dispensing device (200) may further include a plurality of protrusions (262). The plurality of protrusions (262) may, as a non-limiting example, be provided on the upper surface of the third support structure (205). By inserting the protrusions (262) into the insertion hole (H1) described above with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, alignment of the chip case and the dispensing device (200) may be facilitated. Accordingly, mounting of the chip case to the dispensing device (200) may be more easily achieved.

[0094] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a chip dispenser capable of accurately and easily discharging chips while suppressing or minimizing damage to the chips can be implemented. Chips can be directly discharged from the chip case without a separate passage for chip discharge. Furthermore, chips can be quickly and accurately discharged using the pusher member (210) of the dispensing device (200).

[0095] FIGS. 13 and 14 are photographic images exemplarily showing a dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, the dispensing device may have a configuration as described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 11. FIG. 13 shows a state in which all of the pusher members (210) are not protruded, and FIG. 14 shows a state in which one of the pusher members (210) is protruded.

[0097] FIGS. 15 to 18 are perspective views illustrating a chip dispenser including a chip case (100) and a dispensing device (200) that are interconnected, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0098] Referring to FIGS. 15 to 18, a chip case (100) having a plurality of chips embedded therein can be mounted on a dispensing device (200). The chip case (100) can be vertically arranged. In this state, as described above, the chips embedded in the chip case (100) can be dispensed by linearly reciprocating the pusher member using the driving unit of the dispensing device (200).

[0099] FIG. 19 is a drawing showing an outlet sensor (260) that may be included in a dispensing device (200).

[0100] Referring to FIG. 19, the dispensing device (200) may further include an outlet sensor (260). The outlet sensor (260) may be positioned at the top of the chip outlet (T10) of the dispensing device (200) when the chip case (100) is coupled to the dispensing device (200). The outlet sensor (260) may count the number of chips discharged from the chip outlet (T10).

[0101] If a situation occurs such as the inside of the chip case (100) being empty or a chip being stuck in the chip outlet (T10), the sensor unit (250) may not be able to accurately count the number of chips being discharged based on the operation of the driving unit (220). The outlet sensor (260) can detect chips when they are discharged from the chip outlet (T10) and pass under the outlet sensor (260). Since the outlet sensor (260) directly senses chips discharged from the chip outlet (T10), it is possible to accurately confirm whether chips are discharged even in a situation where the inside of the chip case (100) is empty or a chip is stuck in the chip outlet (T10). The outlet sensor (260) can detect an abnormal situation such as chips not being discharged due to a malfunction of the dispensing device (200).

[0102] The dispensing device (200) may include a control unit connected to the outlet sensor (260), the driving unit (220), and the sensor unit (250), and the control unit may include a processor, a memory connected to the processor, and a communication unit connected to the processor, the memory, and an external device. The memory stores a program for controlling the dispensing device (200), and the program may receive signals from the outlet sensor (260) and the sensor unit (250) and generate a signal for controlling the driving unit (220). The control unit may be installed together with the chip dispenser (200), but it is also possible for an external computer to perform the role of the control unit.

[0103] As described above, according to embodiments of the present invention, a chip dispenser can be implemented that can significantly improve the workability of chip insertion and reduce labor and time consumption. Furthermore, according to embodiments of the present invention, a chip dispenser can be implemented that can accurately and easily discharge chips while suppressing (minimizing) damage to the chips. Therefore, using a chip dispenser according to embodiments can improve workability, reduce related costs / time, ensure accurate dispensing work, and reduce maintenance costs.

[0104] This specification has disclosed preferred embodiments of the present invention, and although specific terms have been used, they have been used in a general sense only to easily explain the technical contents of the present invention and to help understand the invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that other modifications based on the technical idea of ​​the present invention are possible in addition to the embodiments disclosed herein. For example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the chip dispenser and the operating method thereof according to the embodiments described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 19 can be modified in various ways. Therefore, the scope of the invention should not be defined by the described embodiments, but by the technical idea described in the claims.

Claims

1. As a chip dispenser for dispensing chips, A chip case comprising a base portion and a cover portion connectable with the base portion, wherein the base portion and the cover portion are configured to define a cylindrical receiving area, wherein a plurality of chips are received within the receiving area, and wherein the chip case has a chip discharge port for discharging the chips and a pusher inlet port for discharging the chips; and A dispensing device comprising: a pusher member that can enter and exit through the pusher inlet, and a driving unit for driving the pusher member, wherein the chip case is mounted thereon, and is configured to enable linear reciprocating movement of the pusher member by the driving unit; A chip dispenser configured such that the pusher member is inserted into the pusher inlet while the chip case is mounted on the dispensing device, thereby pushing the chip inside the chip case so that the chip is discharged through the chip discharge port.

2. In paragraph 1, A hinge member is provided between the base portion and the cover portion, A chip dispenser configured to open and close the base portion and the cover portion by rotation using the hinge member.

3. In paragraph 1, A chip dispenser configured such that the base portion and the cover portion are joined and opened and closed in a sliding manner.

4. In paragraph 1, The pusher inlet is provided at the bottom of one of the base portion and the cover portion, A chip dispenser having a chip discharge port provided at the bottom of the other of the base portion and the cover portion.

5. In paragraph 1, A chip dispenser having the pusher inlet and the chip outlet provided at the bottom of the base.

6. In paragraph 1, A plurality of first receiving grooves parallel to each other are provided in the above base portion, A plurality of second receiving grooves parallel to each other are provided in the above cover portion, A chip dispenser in which the cylindrical receiving area is formed by the first receiving groove and the second receiving groove corresponding to the first receiving groove.

7. In paragraph 1, A chip dispenser configured such that the cover portion covers the open front area of ​​the base portion.

8. In paragraph 1, The above driving part includes a motor member that rotates the rotating shaft member, A chip dispenser, wherein the dispensing device includes a power transmission structure for converting the rotational motion of the rotational shaft member into a linear reciprocating motion of the pusher member.

9. In paragraph 8, the power transmission structure, A rotating plate coupled to the above rotating shaft member and rotating together with it; A first supporting member coupled to the above rotating plate; A second support member coupled to the above pusher member; and A chip dispenser comprising a connecting member arranged to connect the first and second supporting members.

10. In paragraph 9, The above dispensing device includes a support structure, A chip dispenser in which the support structure has a first guide hole for guiding movement of the pusher member and a second guide hole for guiding movement of the second support member.

11. In paragraph 1, A chip dispenser wherein the dispensing device further includes a sensor unit for detecting the position of the pusher member.

12. In paragraph 11, A chip dispenser configured to discharge one chip per cycle in which the position of the pusher member is moved by the driving of the driving unit when the pusher member is detected by the sensor unit, and accordingly, the pusher member becomes undetected by the sensor unit, and when the position of the pusher member moves and the pusher member becomes detected again by the sensor unit, the driving of the driving unit is stopped.

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