LED Sensor Array for Coin Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coin counters are bulky and inefficient due to their reliance on multiple 'chutes' designs, which are limited by the variety of coin denominations and require numerous moving parts and hardware elements, making them unable to accommodate new or diverse coin issuances effectively.
Innovation Solution
A compact coin detection apparatus using a single coin path with an LED sensor array that transmits light beams to detect coin characteristics, such as size and shape, and communicates data via wireless channels to external devices for accurate denomination identification, eliminating the need for multiple chutes and reducing hardware complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple 'chutes' designs are used to identify coins, then coin denomination identification is achieved, but device complexity and size increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical chute-based coin sorting system with an optical sensing system using LED arrays and photodetectors. Instead of physically directing coins through multiple chutes based on size, the system uses light beams to detect coin characteristics and electronically identifies denominations, eliminating the need for complex mechanical sorting infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal coin detection system that can identify multiple coin denominations using a single multi-functional sensor array. The LED array with multiple photodetectors can detect various coin characteristics (diameter, thickness, material properties) and identify different denominations through software algorithms, allowing one system to handle diverse coin types that previously required separate chute pathways.
2Measurement precision
If multiple 'chutes' designs are used to sort coins, then coin categorization is achieved, but the device becomes bulky and requires extensive hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical chute-based coin sorting system with an optical sensing system using LED arrays and photodetectors. Instead of physically directing coins through multiple chutes based on size, the system uses light beams to detect coin characteristics and electronically identifies denominations, eliminating the need for complex mechanical sorting infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple coin detection functions into a single integrated sensor array. Instead of having separate physical pathways for each denomination, the system combines multiple LEDs and photodetectors in one location, using optical signals to perform what previously required separate mechanical sorting channels, thereby dramatically reducing device volume.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional chute designs are used, then coin paths are defined, but adaptability to new coin denominations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic, software-based coin identification system that can adapt to new denominations without physical reconfiguration. The LED sensor array collects optical data from coins, and programmable algorithms process this information to identify denominations, allowing the system to be updated via software to recognize new coin types issued by various currencies, unlike fixed mechanical chute systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal coin detection system that can identify multiple coin denominations using a single multi-functional sensor array. The LED array with multiple photodetectors can detect various coin characteristics (diameter, thickness, material properties) and identify different denominations through software algorithms, allowing one system to handle diverse coin types that previously required separate chute pathways.
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 provides a streamlined, resource-efficient design capable of identifying various coin denominations using light information, allowing for compact integration in devices like vending machines and enabling communication with user devices for tracking and management of coin counting activities.
Implementation Method 1
detecting an interference of a set of light beams within the several light beams
Implementation Method 2
detecting a size of coin by determining which of the light beams of the plurality of LEDs are blocked by a coin travelling through the coin path
Data Source
AI summary
An object of the present invention is to provide a coin detection apparatus that includes a coin path and a light emitting diode (LED) sensor array positioned within the coin path and configured to transmit light beams within the coin path in order to detect characteristics of coins travelling through the coin path based on information from the LED sensor array and transmit data regarding a coin type based on the detected characteristics of the coin to an external application.