Coin Insertion Device Self-Cleaning Flap Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coin insertion devices are vulnerable to manipulation and clogging by foreign objects like paper and wire, which impairs their functionality and leads to frequent service events and potential damage to downstream coin checkers.
Innovation Solution
A self-cleaning slot lock with a rotatable drum covered by a flap that can be opened to eject foreign materials, utilizing sensors and a cam-controlled mechanism to detect and remove foreign objects, combined with position sensors to ensure effective slot blocking and prevent jamming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a drum with receiving area is used to accept coins, then coin insertion functionality is improved, but foreign objects like paper and wire can be inserted and cause clogging
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of foreign objects using sensors (light barriers, capacitive sensors) before the drum completes its rotation. When foreign objects are detected, the system preemptively activates the ejection mechanism to prevent clogging, rather than waiting for the objects to cause problems during subsequent operations.
Solution Approach 2:
A flap is introduced as an intermediary element between the drum and the external environment. This flap can be opened to eject foreign objects and closed to prevent their entry, serving as a protective barrier that allows the drum to function normally while blocking harmful foreign objects.
2Productivity
If the drum rotates to deliver coins, then coin forwarding is improved, but foreign objects jam the drum rotation
Solution Approach 1:
Position sensors and current sensors provide continuous feedback about the drum's rotation status and load conditions. When foreign objects cause abnormal current draw or position deviations, the control unit receives this feedback and activates the ejection mechanism to remove the obstructing objects, restoring reliable rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to automatically detect and eject foreign objects without requiring manual intervention. The control unit monitors sensor signals and automatically activates the ejection mechanism, allowing the device to service itself and maintain reliable operation without external assistance.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If sensors and detectors are added to detect foreign objects, then detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it processes signals from various sensors (light barriers, capacitive sensors, position sensors), controls the drum rotation, monitors current draw, and activates the ejection mechanism. By making the control unit multi-functional, the patent avoids adding separate dedicated control systems for each function, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple detection functions (light barrier detection, capacitive sensing, position sensing) are merged into a unified detection system that feeds into a single control unit. The ejection mechanism is also integrated with the existing drum rotation system rather than being a completely separate subsystem, reducing overall system complexity.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If a flap is added to cover the drum, then foreign object ejection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flap opening mechanism replaces complex multi-component mechanical linkages with a cam-controlled system. The cam profile directly translates drum rotation into flap opening motion, eliminating the need for separate actuators, linkages, and adjustment mechanisms, thereby simplifying the overall mechanical structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam profile serves as an intermediary that converts the rotational motion of the drum into the linear motion required to open the flap. This intermediate element simplifies the connection between the drum and flap, making the mechanism easier to implement and control.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution significantly reduces service events by automatically removing foreign objects and preventing damage to coin checkers, ensuring the device remains functional and reduces manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
The flap is preferably equipped with a return spring which is under pretension and by means of which it can be brought back into the closed position.
Implementation Method 2
position sensors for detecting the position of the drum are advantageously provided, with these being designed as light barriers
Implementation Method 3
designed as light barriers and/or as Hall sensor arrangements in an advantageous embodiment
Implementation Method 4
the flap covering the drum opens wide in the direction of gravity and thus in most cases the foreign bodies downwards or outwards again due to the movement of the drum and the flap
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention proposes an insertion device for coins for transferring said coins to a coin tester or to a coin-operated machine, having an insertion slot and having a coin outlet, between which is arranged a rotatable drum having a receiving region for receiving a coin, wherein in a receiving position, the receiving region is accessible to a coin which can be inserted through the insertion slot, and the insertion slot can be closed off by means of rotation of the drum. The drum having the receiving region is covered by a flap which can be opened in a controlled fashion in an ejection position for ejecting foreign material.