Dynamic Coin Receptacle Limit Control for Volume Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current coin processing machines often fail to fully utilize their receptacle volume due to pre-set limits based on assumed coin mixes, which do not reflect actual mixes in various facilities, leading to inefficient use and increased costs for emptying the bins.
Innovation Solution
A coin processing system that uses sensors and a controller to dynamically adjust the upper limit of coins allowed in the receptacle based on real-time data of the coin mix, optimizing the usable volume and preventing overfilling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a pre-set number of coins is used as the receptacle limit, then the machine can operate with a simple control system, but the receptacle volume is not fully utilized when the actual coin mix differs from the assumed mix
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static, pre-set coin limit to a dynamic limit that adjusts based on real-time sensor data about the actual coin mix in the receptacle. The control system continuously monitors coin denominations and recalculates the receptacle capacity limit to match the actual volume occupied by the current coin mixture, thereby maximizing receptacle utilization while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using sensors to detect the actual coin mix in the receptacle and feeding this information back to the control system. The control system then adjusts the receptacle limit based on this feedback, creating a closed-loop system that optimizes receptacle capacity utilization. This feedback mechanism allows the system to adapt to varying coin mixes without requiring complex manual intervention.
2Ease of manufacture
If the receptacle limit is set based on an assumed coin mix, then the control system is easy to program, but the bin may not be fully utilized leading to increased emptying costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the control system to automatically determine and adjust the receptacle limit based on sensor data about the actual coin mix. Instead of requiring manual programming for different coin mixes, the system autonomously calculates the appropriate limit by monitoring the coin denominations present in the receptacle. This self-adjusting capability eliminates the need for complex pre-programming while maximizing receptacle utilization to reduce service costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by dynamically modifying the receptacle limit parameter based on the detected coin mix composition. Rather than using a fixed limit based on assumed proportions, the system adjusts the limit parameter in response to changes in the actual coin mixture, allowing the receptacle to be fully utilized regardless of the specific denominations present. This parameter adaptation reduces unnecessary service interventions.
3Reliability
If the machine stops receiving transactions after a pre-set number of coins, then the coin mix assumption is maintained, but the receptacle volume is wasted when the actual mix occupies less space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by replacing the static assumption-based approach with a dynamic, measurement-based system. Instead of maintaining a fixed coin mix assumption that causes premature stopping, the system continuously measures the actual coin mix and adjusts the receptacle limit accordingly. This dynamic adjustment allows the receptacle to be filled to its actual physical capacity rather than stopping based on erroneous assumptions about coin volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical/manual approach of setting fixed limits based on assumptions with an automated sensor-based system. Optical or other sensors detect the actual coin denominations and provide data to the control system, which then calculates the true receptacle capacity. This substitution eliminates the need to maintain coin mix assumptions and allows precise utilization of the receptacle volume based on actual physical occupancy.
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, a method for optimizing a usable volume of a coin receptacle associated with a coin-processing device is provided. This method includes the steps of obtaining data from at least one sensor and adjusting, responsive to such data, an upper limit of coins which may be input into the receptacle or an available number of coins which may be input into the receptacle.