Automated Coin Tray Refilling System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coin dispenser refilling processes are manual, time-consuming, and tedious, requiring repetitive handling for each denomination, which slows down the replenishment of coin hoppers and canisters.
Innovation Solution
An automated coin tray refilling system comprising a processor, coin reservoirs, and dispensers, with a collector point distribution member and an interface module that adjusts to facilitate coin placement into specific trays, utilizing a drive system and coin reading sensors to optimize coin distribution and filling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual refilling process is used with funnel and canister loading device, then coin distribution can be optimized to even out usage, but refilling operation becomes time-consuming and tedious
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service refilling by automatically distributing coins from bulk reservoirs to individual canister columns without human intervention. The processor-controlled dispensers autonomously monitor coin levels and transfer coins as needed, eliminating the manual pouring and positioning operations that make traditional refilling tedious and time-consuming.
Solution Approach 2:
Coins are pre-stored in bulk reservoirs organized by denomination before the refilling operation begins. The system prepares the distribution plan in advance, calculating optimal transfer quantities to even out coin usage across all canister columns. This preliminary organization allows rapid automated dispensing without manual sorting or measurement during the actual refilling process.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual funnel positioning and coin pouring is used for each denomination, then precise coin placement can be achieved, but the process must be repeated for each denomination making it repetitive and slow
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple denomination refilling operations into a single coordinated process. All coin dispensers operate simultaneously under processor control, with each dispenser targeting its specific denomination column in the canister. This consolidation eliminates the sequential repetition of positioning and pouring operations for each denomination, dramatically increasing refilling speed while maintaining precision through electronic control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that monitor coin levels in real-time within the canister columns. This feedback allows the processor to dynamically adjust dispenser operations, ensuring precise coin placement without overfilling or underfilling. The feedback mechanism eliminates the need for manual level checking and adjustment for each denomination, automating the precision aspect while accelerating the overall process.
3Productivity
If automated dispensers and collector point distribution member are used, then refilling speed is significantly increased, but system complexity increases with multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The collector point distribution member serves multiple functions: it receives coins from various dispensers, sorts them by denomination through integrated sensors, and distributes them to the appropriate canister columns. This multi-functional component consolidates what would otherwise require separate sorting mechanisms for each denomination, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high refilling speed through automated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The processor acts as an intelligent intermediary between the coin reservoirs, dispensers, and canister columns. It coordinates all operations, manages coin distribution logic, and adjusts parameters in real-time based on sensor feedback. This centralized control mediates the complexity by providing a single point of coordination rather than requiring complex mechanical linkages between each component, simplifying the system architecture while enabling rapid automated refilling.
Data Source
AI summary
An automated coin tray refilling system includes a plurality of coin reservoirs and a plurality of coin dispensers for regulating the dispensing of coins from an associated one of the plurality of coin reservoirs. A collector point distribution member is adapted to receive coins from each of the plurality of coin dispensers at one portion thereof and to output the coins at another portion thereof. An interface module having an input end is disposed substantially adjacent the collector point distribution member output and includes an output end for dispensing coins. A coin interface tray is adapted to receive at least one coin tray and at least one processor is provided. The interface module and/or coin interface tray includes a drive system configured to move interface module and/or coin interface tray relative to one another.