Coin Discrimination Apparatus L-Shaped Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional coin discrimination and conveyance apparatuses are large due to the elongated shape of the separation and discrimination units, making it difficult to downsize without altering the fundamental structure of the denomination discrimination unit.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus features a coin separation unit that sends coins in a first direction, followed by a coin discrimination unit that changes the direction to a second direction perpendicular to the first, allowing for a compact L-shaped layout with the coin conveyance and distribution unit, utilizing plate-shaped rotating members and a direction-changing mechanism to achieve downsizing without altering the basic structure of the discrimination unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the coin separation and discrimination section is combined with the coin conveyance and distribution unit in a conventional linear arrangement, then the coins can be processed through separation and denomination discrimination, but the apparatus size increases inevitably due to the elongated shape of the separation and discrimination section
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the conventional linear arrangement to an L-shaped configuration where the coin discrimination unit is oriented perpendicular to the coin conveyance and distribution unit. This dimensional change allows the elongated discrimination section to be arranged in a different spatial direction, reducing the overall footprint of the apparatus while maintaining full processing capability.
2Volume of stationary object
If the fundamental structure of the denomination discrimination unit is altered to downsize the apparatus, then the apparatus size can be reduced, but the basic structure and functionality of the discrimination unit is changed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves downsizing without modifying the fundamental structure of the discrimination unit by changing its spatial orientation to be perpendicular to the conveyance unit. The discrimination unit itself remains structurally intact, but its perpendicular arrangement allows the elongated section to utilize vertical space more efficiently, reducing the horizontal footprint without structural changes.
3Area of stationary object
If the coin separation unit and coin discrimination unit are arranged in a conventional linear fashion, then the coin flow path is simple, but the apparatus occupies a large area due to the elongated configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent arranges the coin discrimination unit perpendicular to the coin conveyance and distribution unit, creating an L-shaped flow path. This perpendicular arrangement reduces the apparatus footprint by utilizing vertical space, while the coin flow path remains straightforward through the L-shaped configuration, maintaining ease of operation without requiring complex routing.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for discrimination and conveyance of coins achieves downsizing of this apparatus itself with a simple and low-cost structure compared with conventional ones. The apparatus includes a coin separation unit, a coin discrimination unit, and a coin conveyance and distribution unit. Coins separated in the coin separation unit are moved in a first direction through a first delivering region and delivered to the coin discrimination unit. The coins whose denomination and authenticity are discriminated in the coin discrimination unit are moved in a second direction approximately perpendicular to the first direction in a plan view through a second delivering region and delivered to the coin conveyance and distribution unit. In the second delivering region, a conveying direction of the coins is changed from the first direction to the second direction. The coins are distributed while being conveyed in the second direction in the coin conveyance and distribution unit.