Coin Identification Device Using Segmented Magnetic Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coin identification devices in automatic vending machines face challenges in accurately identifying coin denominations due to foreign particles and mutual magnetic interference, leading to increased device size and reduced accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A coin identification device employing a first magnetic sensor with an elliptical coil, a second magnetic sensor positioned to detect small-diameter coins, and a third magnetic sensor to detect large-diameter coins, with an identification control unit analyzing magnetic variations to determine coin diameters, allowing for accurate discrimination and downsizing of the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the outer diameter sensor width is set to be sufficiently greater than the outer diameters of all coins, then the outer diameter detection accuracy is improved, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection function into multiple magnetic sensors (first, second, and third magnetic sensors) positioned at different locations. Each sensor has a smaller effective detection width, but together they cover the full range of coin sizes. This segmentation allows accurate detection of both small and large coins without requiring a single oversized sensor, thus reducing the overall device size while maintaining measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are added to detect both small and large diameter coins accurately, then the identification accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple magnetic sensors into a unified detection system where the first magnetic sensor detects the arc of small-diameter coins and the second magnetic sensor detects the passage of large-diameter coins. By merging these detection functions and processing their outputs together in the control unit, the system achieves accurate identification of both coin sizes without requiring complex separate detection systems, thus improving accuracy while managing device complexity.
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 enables precise identification of coin denominations while reducing the device's size, minimizing the impact of foreign particles and magnetic interference, and maintaining high accuracy in coin discrimination.
Implementation Method 1
a first magnetic sensor that includes a coil which is wound in an elliptical shape in a manner that a long axis of the coil extends in a carrying direction of the coin and that continuously detects an amount of magnetic variation while the coin passes in the carrying direction
Data Source
AI summary
A coin identification device includes: a first magnetic sensor detecting an amount of magnetic variation while the coin passes in the carrying direction; a second magnetic sensor installed where the second magnetic sensor detects a passage of an arc of a small-diameter coin when the first magnetic sensor detects a passage of the small-diameter coin; and a third magnetic sensor installed where the third magnetic sensor does not detect a passage of an arc of the small-diameter coin when the first magnetic sensor and the second magnetic sensor detect a passage of the small-diameter coin and detects a passage of an arc of a large-diameter coin; and an identification control unit identifying an outer diameter of the small-diameter coin and the large-diameter coin based on the amount of magnetic variation of the first magnetic sensor.