Coin Return Passage Reservoir for Compact Temporary Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coin processing devices are bulky due to complex configurations, particularly in the temporary storage mechanisms, which hinder size reduction and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The coin processing device incorporates a returning passage on the upper side of the feeder, with a rotatable shutter forming a reservoir, and a control circuit to manage coin flow through multiple passages, allowing for temporary storage with a simplified configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a temporary storage mechanism is added to the coin processing device, then coin storage capability is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the temporary storage function with the returning passage structure. The returning passage, which already exists for returning coins to the feeder, is configured to also serve as a temporary storage reservoir when the shutter is closed. This eliminates the need for a separate temporary storage mechanism, thereby improving coin storage capability without increasing device size.
Solution Approach 2:
The returning passage is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both a transport path for returning coins to the feeder and as a temporary storage reservoir. By controlling the shutter, the same structural space can be used for coin return or coin storage, achieving multi-functionality that resolves the contradiction between storage capability and device size.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a complex temporary storage mechanism is used, then coin storage and sorting functions are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the temporary storage function with the existing returning passage structure rather than adding a separate mechanism. The shutter assembly integrates with the returning passage to create a reservoir, eliminating the need for complex independent storage and sorting mechanisms while maintaining versatile coin handling capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The returning passage is designed to serve multiple purposes: coin transport, temporary storage, and sorting preparation. By making this single structure multi-functional, the patent achieves versatile coin storage and sorting functions without increasing overall device complexity.
3Quantity of substance
If the shutter is kept closed to reserve coins in the returning passage, then temporary storage capability is improved, but coin flow speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter is designed to be dynamically controllable, switching between open and closed states based on operational needs. When temporary storage is required, the shutter closes to reserve coins in the returning passage; when coin flow speed is prioritized, the shutter opens to allow free movement. This dynamic control resolves the contradiction between storage capability and flow speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter operates periodically, alternating between closed (storage) and open (flow) states according to the operational cycle. During deposit operations, the shutter may close to store coins; during dispensing operations, it opens to enable rapid coin flow. This periodic action allows the system to achieve both temporary storage capability and maintained coin flow speed at different times in the operational cycle.
Data Source
AI summary
A coin processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is provided with: a conveyance unit that conveys coins along a conveyance path; a delivery unit that delivers the coins to the conveyance path; a return passage that is a part of the conveyance path, and that returns the conveyed coins to the delivery unit; and an openable/closable shutter that is provided in the return passage. The return passage and the shutter in the closed state constitute a storage part for storing the coins.