Coin Handling Apparatus Dynamic Storage Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional coin handling apparatuses are limited in their ability to store and dispense coins of combinations different from preset denominations and numbers, leading to extended dispensing times and lack of miniaturization.

Innovation Solution

A control method and apparatus that dynamically adjust coin storage and dispensing by recognizing coin denominations, transferring coins between storage units based on predetermined conditions such as time, ratio, or deposit status, allowing for flexible storage and dispensing of coins of varying denominations and numbers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If coins are stored in preset combinations of denominations and numbers, then dispensing accuracy is improved, but dispensing time increases and device size cannot be miniaturized

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedispensing accuracyVSAvoiddispensing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by enabling the coin handling apparatus to dynamically switch between preset combination storage and mixed storage modes. The storage structure transitions from static preset combinations to dynamic mixed storage, allowing the system to adapt to different operational scenarios and reduce dispensing time while maintaining accuracy through control unit management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the storage configuration parameters from fixed preset combinations to variable mixed storage. The control unit adjusts the storage parameters based on operational needs, allowing coins to be stored in flexible combinations rather than rigid preset structures, thereby reducing dispensing time without sacrificing accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If coins are stored in preset combinations of denominations and numbers, then dispensing accuracy is improved, but device size cannot be miniaturized

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedispensing accuracyVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies merging by combining multiple storage functions into a single mixed storage structure. Instead of maintaining separate storage areas for different preset combinations, the system merges all coin storage into one flexible structure that can hold various denominations and quantities, enabling miniaturization while preserving dispensing accuracy through control unit management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements universality by creating a multi-functional storage structure that can accommodate both preset combinations and mixed storage modes. This universal storage design eliminates the need for multiple dedicated storage areas, allowing device miniaturization while maintaining the ability to dispense accurate coin combinations through dynamic control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Volume of moving object

If mixed storage is used to reduce device size, then device miniaturization is achieved, but dispensing time may increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice sizeVSAvoiddispensing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-organizing coins in the mixed storage structure according to denominations and quantities. The control unit prepares the storage configuration in advance, sorting and arranging coins before dispensing operations begin, which eliminates time-consuming sorting processes during actual dispensing and reduces overall dispensing time despite the mixed storage format.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback through the control unit's monitoring and adjustment mechanisms. The system continuously monitors the mixed storage configuration and dispensing operations, providing real-time feedback to optimize the dispensing process. This feedback mechanism ensures that even with mixed storage, the system can maintain efficient dispensing times by dynamically adjusting the dispensing sequence and selection based on current storage states.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

4Volume of moving object

If mixed storage is used to reduce device size, then device miniaturization is achieved, but operational complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice sizeVSAvoidoperational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by implementing automated control through the control unit that manages the mixed storage structure. The system automatically sorts, selects, and dispenses coins based on the mixed storage configuration without requiring manual intervention or complex operational procedures. This automation reduces operational complexity despite the increased storage flexibility, allowing the system to handle mixed storage efficiently through self-managed processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP4425455A1Control method for coin handling apparatus and coin handling apparatus
Publication Date: 2024.09.04 GLORY LTD
  • EP4425455A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4425455A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4425455A1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3D

AI summary

A method according to the present disclosure is a method for the coin handling apparatus according to the present disclosure includes: performing a preparatory operation including: recognizing by a recognition unit a denomination of a coin fed from a first storage unit that stores one or more coins, and storing, in a second storage unit, a certain number of coins for each denomination of a first combination from among the one or more coins based on the denomination recognized; and dispensing at least a part of the certain number of coins stored in the second storage unit to an outlet in response to a dispensing instruction, in which a predetermined condition is satisfied, a certain number of coins for each denomination of a combination different from the first combination are stored in the second storage unit.