Changer Operation
As the coins roll along the ramp, they pass two
electronic sensors embedded in the plastic behind the
coin path and Acceptor lid (Figure 10). The recognition
sensors measure coin diameter/metal content and coin
thickness. These values, which are sent to the changer's
microcomputer for analysis, determine whether the coin
will be accepted.
The microcomputer compares the information received
about the inserted coin to the predetermined coin
acceptance criteria stored in memory. If a coin falls
within the range of acceptable specifications, it is
accepted. The microcomputer sends a signal to the
Accept Gate, opening the Accept Gate and routing the
coin to the Separator section.
As the coin enters the Separator section, it passes the
Strobe Sensor. This electromagnetic coil signals the
microcomputer that a coin has been accepted.
The microcomputer then accumulates credit equal to the
value of the accepted coin, and closes the Accept Gate in
preparation for the next inserted coin.
Coin Rejection
Coins not meeting the acceptable specifications are
rejected. The Accept Gate remains closed, and the
rejected coin rolls off the top of the gate, down a ramp
to the reject chute, and drops into the coin return cup.
Changer Operation
General Operation
When coins are inserted into the coin
changer, they pass two electronic sensors
that measure coin diameter, metal content
and coin thickness. These measurements
are sent to the coin changer
microcomputer where they are compared
with predetermined coin acceptance
criteria.
If the coin does not meet the acceptance
criteria, the Accept Gate remains closed
and the coin is rejected. If it fits the criteria,
the coin is accepted. The Accept Gate
opens to allow the coin into the Separator
section. As it enters, it passes the Strobe
Sensor, which signals the microcomputer
to accumulate credit.
Each time a transaction occurs, the
microcomputer checks the status of the
upper coin tube sensors to see if the tubes
are full. If the tube corresponding to the
accepted coin is full, the Separator Gate
remains open and the coin is sent to the
cash box. If the appropriate tube can accept
coins, the Separator Gate closes and the
coin is routed to that tube.
Once a vend price has been reached, the
microcomputer checks the lower coin tube
sensors for change requirements. Coins of
the highest denomination available are
selected and the dispensers pay out the
change.
Coin Acceptance
When coins are inserted into the vending
machine, they enter via the Coin Cup of the
Acceptor/Gate Assembly. The coins hit two
snubbers that absorb the impact and allow
the coins to roll smoothly down the coin
ramp.
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