Jointed Coin Pipe Geometry for Variable Cash Drawer Positions
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coin handling apparatuses lack flexibility in accommodating varying cash drawer configurations and coin compartment positions, leading to inefficiencies and increased manufacturing costs due to the need for multiple configurations.
Innovation Solution
A coin handling apparatus featuring a jointed pipe with a rigid elongate and curved element, allowing adjustable angles and lengths to accommodate different coin positions, ensuring coins can be transported between first and second positions with minimal risk of sticking, and enabling adaptation to various cash drawer configurations without requiring separate manufacturing lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed configuration of coin handling apparatus is used, then manufacturing is simpler, but adaptability to different cash drawer configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe is divided into multiple rigid sections that can be independently positioned and connected. Each section can be adjusted to different angles and orientations, allowing the pipe to be configured for various cash drawer layouts while maintaining structural integrity and manufacturing simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipe configuration is made adjustable rather than fixed. The rigid sections can be repositioned and reconnected to create different pathways, enabling the same apparatus to adapt to varying cash drawer configurations without requiring complete redesign or additional manufacturing lines.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple configurations of coin handling apparatus are manufactured, then adaptability to different preferences is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single coin handling apparatus design incorporates an adjustable pipe system that can serve multiple cash drawer configurations. This universal design eliminates the need for manufacturers to produce separate apparatus for different configurations, reducing manufacturing costs and resource usage while maintaining the ability to support various customer preferences.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipe configuration parameters (angle, orientation, position) can be changed to accommodate different cash drawer layouts. By adjusting these parameters rather than manufacturing different physical structures, the same apparatus can be adapted to various applications, significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
3Ease of operation
If a rigid straight pipe is used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but flexibility in positioning is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe is segmented into rigid sections that maintain structural simplicity while enabling positioning flexibility. Each section remains structurally simple and rigid, but the ability to connect and orient these sections differently provides the necessary flexibility for various coin transport pathways without increasing overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A coin handling apparatus having: a first coin position; a second coin position; and a pipe for transporting coins from the first to the second coin position. The pipe is jointed and has a rigid, elongate element having a straight, elongate portion and a curved portion at a first end of the straight, elongate portion. The pipe further includes a rigid, curved element. The curved portion and the curved element are connected to define a continuous passageway through the curved element and the elongate element. The curved element, at least before mounting of the pipe in the coin handling apparatus, is rotatable in relation to the elongate element, such that an angle between a first opening of the curved element and a direction extending along the straight elongate portion is variable.