Coin Deflection Device Segmentation for Cleanability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing deflection devices in vending machines are prone to jamming and maintenance issues, as they are not easily cleanable and can lead to operational inefficiencies due to design limitations.
Innovation Solution
A deflection device comprising two spaced, opposing flat elements with spacers that form a path for coins, allowing for smooth deflection from an inclined to a vertical position, featuring a strip-shaped area to limit the path and hook-like ends for secure fixation, with optional screw locking for easy disassembly and cleaning, and made from materials like sheet metal or plastic for optimal performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex deflection mechanism with multiple components is used, then the coin deflection function is achieved, but the device becomes difficult to clean and maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The deflection device is divided into two separate wall-like elements that can be easily detached from each other. This segmentation allows each element to be independently removed and cleaned, solving the problem of difficult maintenance while maintaining the complete deflection function when assembled together.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacers are designed to be removable from the wall-like elements through engagement with openings. This extraction capability allows the spacers to be taken out for cleaning or replacement without damaging the main structural elements, facilitating easy maintenance while preserving the deflection mechanism's integrity.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed deflection structure is used, then the coin path is stable, but the device cannot be easily disassembled for cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between wall-like elements and spacers is designed to be dynamically adjustable - firmly engaged during operation to maintain stable coin path, but easily detachable when cleaning is needed. The engagement system transitions between a fixed state during use and a removable state for maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The wall-like elements are pre-designed with openings that anticipate the need for disassembly. These openings are prepared in advance to receive spacers, allowing for quick assembly and disassembly without requiring complex alignment or adjustment during maintenance operations.
3Volume of moving object
If a compact deflection device is used, then space is minimized, but the coin throughput capacity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The deflection device utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement with wall-like elements positioned at different heights and angles. By employing vertical and angular dimensions rather than only horizontal expansion, the device achieves compact footprint while maintaining sufficient passage width for high coin throughput capacity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The device (1) has flat base sheets (2) lying opposite to each other and made of metal, plastic or coated material, where the sheets form a path for coins or coin substitutes by spacers (10, 18). The spacers engage into openings (11) of the base sheets. The spacer (10) is formed with a bar-like area in one-piece, where the bar-like area serves as a boundary for the path. The spacer (10) is designed in a hook-shape at an end area. The sheets are detachably fixed relative to each other by a screw (12) e.g. knurled screw, that is arranged at a protruding guide remote from the path of the coins.