EP0570692B1 - Automatic coin collector - Google Patents

Automatic coin collector Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP0570692B1
EP0570692B1 EP93105593A EP93105593A EP0570692B1 EP 0570692 B1 EP0570692 B1 EP 0570692B1 EP 93105593 A EP93105593 A EP 93105593A EP 93105593 A EP93105593 A EP 93105593A EP 0570692 B1 EP0570692 B1 EP 0570692B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
computer
card
housing
coin collector
automatic coin
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP93105593A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0570692A1 (en
Inventor
Edouard Menoud
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Journomat AG
Original Assignee
Journomat AG
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Journomat AG filed Critical Journomat AG
Publication of EP0570692A1 publication Critical patent/EP0570692A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0570692B1 publication Critical patent/EP0570692B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F11/00—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles
    • G07F11/02—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines
    • G07F11/04—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines in which magazines the articles are stored one vertically above the other
    • G07F11/045—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines in which magazines the articles are stored one vertically above the other for sheet shaped or pliable articles
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F9/00—Details other than those peculiar to special kinds or types of apparatus
    • G07F9/02—Devices for alarm or indication, e.g. when empty; Advertising arrangements in coin-freed apparatus

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a coin-operated automated teller machine, consisting of a housing with an opening for operating and maintaining its contents, a closing element for closing the opening, a locking element which locks the closing element in the closed position, an actuating element for unlocking the locking element, a coin validator with a slot for Inserting coins and a device for data exchange with a portable information carrier.
  • Vending machines for newspapers and magazines or food and beverages but also e.g. Parking meters often have coin teller machines.
  • These coin-operated cash machines are housed within a housing, of which e.g. a lid can be opened to e.g. collect the collected coins, revise the machine or refill products at vending machines.
  • a vending machine for newspapers in which the newspapers are offered for sale in a stack in a cupboard-shaped stand.
  • the stand has a lockable door on the front.
  • a sales facility with a coin validator and a locking device for locking and releasing the stand door is arranged on the stand.
  • Data collected by the vending machine can be fed to a central data processing system using a portable data transmission unit with a keypad and digital display.
  • a disadvantage of the known device is that after the release of the column door, the stack of newspapers is accessible and, as a result, there is the possibility of improper removal of more than one newspaper.
  • Another disadvantage is that either each operator has to carry an unwieldy data transmission unit on the assembly tour or that additional personnel have to be used to collect the sales data.
  • US 4 654 513 discloses a vending machine for flat materials, particularly for newspapers.
  • the stack formed by the newspapers stacked in an inclined position is held upright on the one hand by a vertical rear wall and on the other hand by a telescopic rod device.
  • a motor drives a gear connected to the rod device, the rod device moving downward releasing the uppermost newspaper of the stack, which, under the action of gravity, slides off the stack and falls into the output gap.
  • the movement of the motor is controlled by control and storage means, which in turn are connected to a magnetic card reader. Data such as machine code, subscriber code, number of issues per subscriber and day as well as specific issue days are transmitted to the control and storage means by means of a magnetic card readable by the card reader.
  • a disadvantage of the known devices is that the newspaper is only produced by gravity. Depending on the nature of the paper and the air humidity, the newspaper to be output may not always slide off the stack, which leads to disruptions and annoyed newspaper buyers. Another disadvantage is the unidirectional data exchange, which prevents versatile use of the vending machine.
  • EP-A-0 387 972 a method for operating an automatic machine is known which is suitable for example for the sale of stamps or tickets. Payment is made by coins or prepaid cards. To withdraw the money received, the authorized service person first takes a settlement card from the money container after opening the housing and inserts it into a reading device. Then she decides whether the entire container should be replaced or not. In the described method, the billing card is located inside the machine.
  • the present invention is based on the object of designing a coin-operated cash dispenser in such a way that it can be operated easily and safely. This object is achieved by the combination of features according to claim 1.
  • the operator receives a card, in a newspaper machine conveniently together with the newspapers to be refilled.
  • the card authorizes the person to open the machine.
  • the card contains on its electronic information carrier data about the machine (s) to be operated, e.g. their numbers, about the operator and about the work to be carried out, e.g. about the number of products to be refilled and their current price, as well as data about the coins of the current national currency .
  • the operator inserts the card into the corresponding slot in the machine.
  • the data transmission element reads the data from the information carrier.
  • the data are stored in the memory by means of the computer.
  • the computer at least the data generated during the last operation are transferred to the information carrier on the card via the data transmission element, for example information about the person and time of the last operation, the time of the current operation, the number of products sold, the time of sale, the number and type of coins received.
  • data can be transmitted about the operation of the machine, for example about the number and type of rejected coins, battery status, acceptance or dispensing problems.
  • the computer unlocks the locking of the locking element via the power element, so that the work commissioned, e.g. the refilling of the products and collection of the collected coins can be carried out.
  • the operator receives a key for opening the machine in exchange for data.
  • she takes back a delivery note for the collected coins to the operator with her card.
  • the same person can therefore easily be used to refill the products and collect the coins, which considerably reduces the personnel expenditure.
  • the data stored on the card are read into a computer.
  • the operator not only receives a receipt for the coins collected, but also valuable information about the planning of the Maintenance and commitment of the operating team. If, for example, an automat is often sold out considerably before the next operation, its operating cycle can be adjusted accordingly. If a machine frequently rejects coins of one type, the coin validator of this machine can be set differently by a mechanic. Batteries do not need to be serviced prophylactically. Different products can be sold on one and the same machine, for example a different magazine every weekday, whereby the machine of the machine is automatically programmed to the current price of the magazine offered, which is displayed, for example, on a liquid crystal display.
  • the automat according to the invention can therefore be operated considerably more cost-effectively.
  • the automat according to the invention enables, for example, the issue of customer subscriptions to customers.
  • a customer card does not open the machine, but when inserted, causes a newspaper to be handed in and at the same time this card is blocked for that day.
  • the customer can therefore use the card every day to obtain one from any machine according to the invention which contains the subscribed newspaper.
  • the customer card acts as a prepaid card.
  • the corresponding purchase price will be debited when a product is issued.
  • the card can e.g. be upgraded on a separate machine.
  • bingo cards Another option is to issue so-called bingo cards, which e.g. enables the free delivery of a certain number of a certain article for advertising purposes.
  • a housing 1 and 4 has a housing 1 which is open at the top and closed by a lid 2 which can be hinged about a hinge 3.
  • a hook 4 is attached, which is behind in the closed position a pawl 5 pivotably articulated on the housing 1 engages.
  • the pawl 5 is loaded by a spring 6 into the locked position and can be pulled into the unlocked position by an electromagnet 7.
  • a coin validator 9 is mounted in the housing 1.
  • a coin insertion slot 10 is connected to a coin check channel 11.
  • a section through the coin validator 9 is shown schematically in FIG.
  • the channel 11 is formed by the circuit board 12, an opposing printed circuit board 14 and a metal rail 15 on which the coins 17 roll.
  • the tester 9 is held together by screws 16.
  • the measuring elements 13 mounted on the plates 12, 14 comprise at least two light barriers each formed from a light-emitting diode 20 and a photo receiver 21. Diode 20 and receiver 21 are mounted at a distance from the plates 12, 14.
  • a very precise, sharply defined position of the light barrier is achieved in that the light from the diode 20 passes through two narrow bores 19 in the plates 12, 14 before it reaches the receiver 21. As a result, the diameter of the coins 17 can be measured precisely.
  • the tester 9 comprises electromagnetic measuring elements 22, which e.g. measure the thickness of the coin 17, its material and / or weight.
  • a switch 25 which can be set in two positions by means of an electromagnet 26. In the basic position shown, the switch 25 guides the accepted coins 17 into an intermediate check 30 designed as a tray. In the other position, the switch 25 guides the refused coins 17 into a return tray 33.
  • the intermediate checkout 30 can be swiveled in both directions from the horizontal basic position shown about an axis 31 by means of an electromagnet 32. In one swivel position, the coins slide through an opening 34 into the return tray 33, in the other swivel position into a collection container 35.
  • a slot 40 for inserting a card 41 is provided in the housing 1.
  • the card 41 has on both sides at one end a programmable data carrier 42 (FIG. 3) in the form of an integrated circuit which is connected to electrically conductive contact surfaces 43.
  • contact tongues 44 are connected to the contact surfaces 43.
  • the contact tongues 44 are mounted on a carrier 45, which is conveniently part of the Circuit board 12 is.
  • the contact tongues 44 are connected to a programmable computer 50, which is also mounted on the circuit board 12.
  • a memory 51 is assigned to the computer 50.
  • the computer 50 processes the data generated by the measuring elements 13, 22 and controls the electromagnets 7, 26 and 32 via an amplifier 52 each.
  • the power supply of the machine is formed from photovoltaic cells 55 arranged on the housing 1 and an accumulator 56.
  • FIG. 4 schematically shows the part of the machine in which newspapers and magazines 61 are issued.
  • the stack of newspapers is stacked on a height-adjustable table 60.
  • the table 60 can be adjusted in height so that the top newspaper 61 of the stack is always at the same height.
  • Two toothed rollers 62, 63 are rotatably mounted on the cover 2.
  • the roller 63 is connected to the output shaft of a reversible motor 64.
  • An endless toothed belt 65 is stretched over the rollers 62, 63.
  • a carrier 66 is fastened to the toothed belt 65 and an arm 67 is articulated to it.
  • a roller 68 is rotatably mounted.
  • the angular range of the rotary movement of the roller 68 is limited to approximately 60 ° by stops, not shown. In the one limit position shown, spikes 69 protrude from the roller 68 forward and downward. In this Position, the uppermost newspaper 61 is detected when the motor 64 is switched on and pushed out from an output slot 73.
  • the motor 64 is switched on by the computer 50 as soon as the correct amount of coins is in the cash register 30.
  • the motor 64 reverses as soon as the carrier 66 has reached a limit switch, not shown.
  • the roller 68 first rolls on the newspaper 61 so that the spikes 69 are lifted off, and then slides on this newspaper 61 to the next one until the carrier 66 switches a further limit switch in the rear limit position shown.
  • a sensor 74 shown as a light barrier, is attached in front of the output slot 73 and reports the newspaper 61 to the computer 50 when it is pushed out.
  • the computer 50 actuates the magnet 32 in response to this signal, so that the amount collected falls from the intermediate checkout 30 into the collecting container 35.
  • a predetermined time for example 5 seconds
  • the magnet 32 is controlled via the computer 50 in such a way that the intermediate checkout 30 is emptied into the return tray 33 becomes.
  • This money can also be returned if, for example, no further coins are inserted for a certain time, although the purchase price has not yet been paid in full, or if other disruptions make it impossible to issue the newspaper. This means that there is no need to attach a return button.
  • the described machine is extremely user and user-friendly and is very well protected against willful damage, since it has no levers or buttons to be operated. It brings extraordinary advantages for management, which was explained in the introduction to the description.
  • vending machines without a coin validator 9, cash register 30, collecting container 35 and return tray 33 can also be used. These vending machines are cheaper to manufacture, more reliable and easier to maintain.

Landscapes

  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Control Of Vending Devices And Auxiliary Devices For Vending Devices (AREA)
  • Noodles (AREA)
  • Control Or Security For Electrophotography (AREA)
  • Pinball Game Machines (AREA)
  • Developing Agents For Electrophotography (AREA)
  • Compositions Of Macromolecular Compounds (AREA)
  • Graft Or Block Polymers (AREA)

Abstract

The automatic machine has a housing (1), the cover (2) of which is blocked by a pawl (5) in the closing position. Coins are inserted through a slot (10), are tested by an electronic coin tester (9) and finally pass into a collecting container (35), an electric motor at the same time pushing out one item of the products offered. For the maintenance of the automatic machine, for example the refilling of the products and the gathering of the collected coins, the service engineer pushes a card (41) having a data carrier into a slot (40), and contact tongues (44) read off the data on the card and store them in a memory (51) via a computer (50). Subsequently, particulars relating to the amount collected and to the operation of the automatic machine are transmitted to the data carrier of the card (41) and the cover (2) is released, so that the automatic machine can be serviced. The automatic machine is easy to service and is user-friendly and affords advantages in terms of management. <IMAGE>

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft einen Münzenkassierautomat, bestehend aus einem Gehäuse mit einer Öffnung zum Bedienen und Warten seines Inhaltes, einem Schliesselement zum Verschliessen der Öffnung, einem Sperrorgan welches das Schliesselement in der geschlossenen Stellung sperrt, einem Betätigungsorgan zum Entsperren des Sperrorgans, einem Münzenprüfer mit Schlitz zum Einschieben von Münzen sowie einer Einrichtung zum Datenaustausch mit einem portablen Informationsträger.The invention relates to a coin-operated automated teller machine, consisting of a housing with an opening for operating and maintaining its contents, a closing element for closing the opening, a locking element which locks the closing element in the closed position, an actuating element for unlocking the locking element, a coin validator with a slot for Inserting coins and a device for data exchange with a portable information carrier.

Verkaufsautomaten für Zeitungen und Zeitschriften oder Lebensmittel und Getränke, aber auch z.B. Parkuhren haben häufig Münzenkassierautomaten. Diese Münzenkassierautomaten sind innerhalb eines Gehäuses untergebracht, von dem mit einem Schlüssel z.B. ein Deckel geöffnet werden kann, um z.B. die kassierten Münzen einzusammeln, den Automaten zu revidieren oder bei Verkaufsautomaten Produkte nachzufüllen.Vending machines for newspapers and magazines or food and beverages, but also e.g. Parking meters often have coin teller machines. These coin-operated cash machines are housed within a housing, of which e.g. a lid can be opened to e.g. collect the collected coins, revise the machine or refill products at vending machines.

Leider muss immer wieder festgestellt werden, dass einzelne der mit dem Einsammeln von Münzen betrauten Personen unzuverlässig arbeiten, wobei sich nachträglich schwer nachprüfen lässt, ob ein Fehlbetrag auf einen fehlerhaften Münzenprüfer oder eine falsche Abrechnung der einsammelnden Person zurückzuführen ist. Aus diesem Grunde wurde schon vorgeschlagen, den Münzenprüfkanal in einen Sammelbehälter zu leiten, der automatisch schliesst, wenn er aus dem Automaten entnommen wird (US-Patent Nr. 4 889 221). Der Sammelbehälter ist von aussen über eine separate, mit einem Schlüssel verschlossene Klappe zugänglich. Diese Lösung ist aufwendig. Ausserdem muss für das Einsammeln der Münzen und das Nachfüllen des Automaten separates Personal eingesetzt werden.Unfortunately, it has to be found again and again that some of the people entrusted with collecting coins work unreliably, whereby it is difficult to check afterwards whether a shortfall is due to a faulty coin validator or an incorrect accounting of the collecting person. For this reason, it has already been suggested that the coin inspection channel be placed in a collecting container which closes automatically when removed from the machine (U.S. Patent No. 4,889,221). The collection container is accessible from the outside via a separate flap, which is locked with a key. This solution is complex. In addition, separate staff must be employed to collect the coins and refill the machine.

Aus der Patentschrift US 4 845 484 ist ein Verkaufsautomat für Zeitungen bekannt, bei dem die Zeitungen in einem schrankförmigen Ständer gestapelt zum Verkauf angeboten werden. Frontseitig weist der Ständer eine verriegelbare Türe auf. Auf dem Ständer ist eine Verkaufseinrichtung mit einem Münzprüfer und einer Schliesseinrichtung für die Verriegelung und Freigabe der Ständertür angeordnet. Vom Verkaufsautomaten gesammelte Daten wie Nachfüllzeit, Verkaufszahlen, Verkaufszeiten und einkassierte Geldmenge können mittels einer portablen Datenübertragungseinheit mit Tastenfeld und Digitalanzeige einer zentralen Datenverarbeitungsanlage zugeführt werden.From US Pat. No. 4,845,484, a vending machine for newspapers is known, in which the newspapers are offered for sale in a stack in a cupboard-shaped stand. The stand has a lockable door on the front. A sales facility with a coin validator and a locking device for locking and releasing the stand door is arranged on the stand. Data collected by the vending machine, such as refill time, sales figures, sales times and cash collected, can be fed to a central data processing system using a portable data transmission unit with a keypad and digital display.

Ein Nachteil der bekannten Einrichtung liegt darin, dass nach der Freigabe der Ständertür der Zeitungsstapel zugänglich ist und dadurch die Möglichkeit der missbräuchlichen Entnahme von mehr als einer Zeitung gegeben ist. Ein weiterer Nachteil ist darin zu sehen, dass entweder jeder Bediener eine unhandliche Datenübertragungseinheit auf der Bestückungstour mitführen muss oder dass zusätzliches Personal zum Einsammeln der Verkaufsdaten eingesetzt werden muss.A disadvantage of the known device is that after the release of the column door, the stack of newspapers is accessible and, as a result, there is the possibility of improper removal of more than one newspaper. Another disadvantage is that either each operator has to carry an unwieldy data transmission unit on the assembly tour or that additional personnel have to be used to collect the sales data.

Die Patentschrift US 4 654 513 offenbart einen Verkaufsautomat für flache Materialien, insbesondere für Zeitungen. Der durch die in geneigter Lage gestapelten Zeitungen gebildete Stapel wird einerseits von einer vertikalen Rückwand und andererseits von einer teleskopartig wirkenden Stabeinrichtung aufrecht gehalten. Zur Ausgabe einer Zeitung treibt ein Motor ein mit der Stabeinrichtung in Verbindung stehendes Getriebe an, wobei die sich nach unten bewegende Stabeinrichtung die oberste Zeitung des Stapels freigibt, welche unter Einwirkung der Schwerkraft vom Stapel abgleitet und in die Ausgabelucke fällt. Die Bewegung des Motors wird durch Steuer- und Speichermittel kontrolliert, die wiederum mit einem Magnetkartenleser in Verbindung stehen. Daten wie Maschinencode, Abonnentencode, Anzahl Ausgaben pro Abonnent und Tag sowie spezifische Ausgabetage werden an die Steuer- und Speichermittel mittels einer vom Kartenleser lesbaren Magnetkarte übertragen.US 4 654 513 discloses a vending machine for flat materials, particularly for newspapers. The stack formed by the newspapers stacked in an inclined position is held upright on the one hand by a vertical rear wall and on the other hand by a telescopic rod device. To output a newspaper, a motor drives a gear connected to the rod device, the rod device moving downward releasing the uppermost newspaper of the stack, which, under the action of gravity, slides off the stack and falls into the output gap. The movement of the motor is controlled by control and storage means, which in turn are connected to a magnetic card reader. Data such as machine code, subscriber code, number of issues per subscriber and day as well as specific issue days are transmitted to the control and storage means by means of a magnetic card readable by the card reader.

Ein Nachteil der bekannten Einrichtungen liegt darin, dass die Ausgabe der Zeitung lediglich durch Schwerkraft bewirkt wird. Je nach Papierbeschaffenheit und Luftfeuchtigkeit gleitet die auszugebende Zeitung nicht in jedem Fall vom Stapel, was zu Störungen und verärgerten Zeitungskäufern führt. Ein weiterer Nachteil liegt im unidirektionalen Datenaustausch, der eine vielseitige Verwendung des Verkaufsautomaten verhindert.A disadvantage of the known devices is that the newspaper is only produced by gravity. Depending on the nature of the paper and the air humidity, the newspaper to be output may not always slide off the stack, which leads to disruptions and annoyed newspaper buyers. Another disadvantage is the unidirectional data exchange, which prevents versatile use of the vending machine.

Aus der EP-A-0 387 972 ist ein Verfahren zum Betrieb eines Automaten bekannt geworden, welches sich beispielsweise für den Verkauf von Briefmarken oder Fahrkarten eignet. Die Bezahlung erfolgt durch Münzen oder Wertkarten. Zur Entnahme des eingenommenen Geldes entnimmt die berechtigte Serviceperson nach Öffnung des Gehäuses dem Geldbehälter zunächst eine Abrechnungskarte und führt diese in ein Lesegerät ein. Danach entscheidet sie, ob der gesamte Behälter ausgetauscht werden soll oder nicht. Bei dem beschriebenen Verfahren befindet sich die Abrechnungskarte innerhalb des Automaten.From EP-A-0 387 972 a method for operating an automatic machine is known which is suitable for example for the sale of stamps or tickets. Payment is made by coins or prepaid cards. To withdraw the money received, the authorized service person first takes a settlement card from the money container after opening the housing and inserts it into a reading device. Then she decides whether the entire container should be replaced or not. In the described method, the billing card is located inside the machine.

Der vorliegenden Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, einen Münzenkassierautomaten derart auszubilden, dass er einfach und sicher zu bedienen ist. Diese Aufgabe wird durch die Merkmalskombination gemäss Anspruch 1 gelöst.The present invention is based on the object of designing a coin-operated cash dispenser in such a way that it can be operated easily and safely. This object is achieved by the combination of features according to claim 1.

Beim Automaten gemäss der Erfindung erhält die Bedienungsperson eine Karte, bei einem Zeitungsautomaten zweckmässig zusammen mit den nachzufüllenden Zeitungen. Die Karte autorisiert die Person, den Automaten zu öffnen. Die Karte enthält dazu auf ihrem elektronischen Informationsträger Daten über den oder die zu bedienenden Automaten, z.B. deren Nummern, über die Bedienperson und über die auszuführenden Arbeiten, z.B. über die Anzahl der nachzufüllenden Produkte und deren aktuellen Preis wie auch Daten über die Münzen der aktuellen Landeswährung. Die Bedienperson schiebt die Karte beim Automaten in den entsprechenden Schlitz. Das Datenübertragungselement liest die Daten des Informationsträgers ab. Die Daten werden mittels des Rechners im Speicher abgespeichert. Gleichzeitig werden vom Rechner mindestens die seit der letzten Bedienung angefallenen Daten über das Datenübertragungselement auf den Informationsträger der Karte übertragen, z.B. Angaben über Person und Zeit der letzten Bedienung, Zeitpunkt der jetzigen Bedienung, Anzahl der verkauften Produkte, Zeitpunkt des Verkaufs, Anzahl und Art der kassierten Münzen. Ferner können Daten übertragen werden über den Betrieb des Automaten, z.B. über Anzahl und Art der zurückgewiesenen Münzen, Batteriezustand, Annahme- oder Ausgabestörungen.In the machine according to the invention, the operator receives a card, in a newspaper machine conveniently together with the newspapers to be refilled. The card authorizes the person to open the machine. For this purpose, the card contains on its electronic information carrier data about the machine (s) to be operated, e.g. their numbers, about the operator and about the work to be carried out, e.g. about the number of products to be refilled and their current price, as well as data about the coins of the current national currency . The operator inserts the card into the corresponding slot in the machine. The data transmission element reads the data from the information carrier. The data are stored in the memory by means of the computer. At the same time, the computer at least the the data generated during the last operation are transferred to the information carrier on the card via the data transmission element, for example information about the person and time of the last operation, the time of the current operation, the number of products sold, the time of sale, the number and type of coins received. Furthermore, data can be transmitted about the operation of the machine, for example about the number and type of rejected coins, battery status, acceptance or dispensing problems.

Sobald diese Daten auf den Informationsträger der Karte übertragen sind, entsperrt der Rechner über das Leistungsglied die Sperre des Schliesselementes, so dass nun die beauftragte Arbeit, z.B. das Nachfüllen der Produkte und Einsammeln der kassierten Münzen durchgeführt werden kann.As soon as this data has been transferred to the information carrier of the card, the computer unlocks the locking of the locking element via the power element, so that the work commissioned, e.g. the refilling of the products and collection of the collected coins can be carried out.

Die Bedienungsperson erhält also gewissermassen einen Schlüssel zum Oeffnen des Automaten im Austausch gegen Daten. Sie nimmt mit ihrer Karte gewissermassen einen Lieferschein für die einkassierten Münzen zum Betreiber zurück. Es kann deshalb ohne weiteres die gleiche Person zum Nachfüllen der Produkte und Einsammeln der Münzen eingesetzt werden, was den Personalaufwand erheblich reduziert. Nach der Rückkehr der Bedienungsperson werden die auf der Karte gespeicherten Daten in einen Computer eingelesen. Der Betreiber erhält nicht nur eine Quittung über die kassierten Münzen, sondern wertvolle Angaben über die Planung des Unterhalts und des Einsatzes der Bedienungsmannschaft. Ist z.B. ein Automat häufig wesentlich vor der Zeit der nächsten Bedienung ausverkauft, kann dessen Bedienungszyklus entsprechend angepasst werden. Weist ein Automat häufig Münzen einer Sorte zurück, kann der Münzenprüfer dieses Automaten gezielt durch einen Monteur anders eingestellt werden. Batterien brauchen nicht prophylaktisch gewartet zu werden. An ein und demselben Automaten können unterschiedliche Produkte verkauft werden, z.B. an jedem Wochentag eine andere Zeitschrift, wobei der Rechner des Automaten automatisch auf den aktuellen Preis der angebotenen Zeitschrift programmiert wird, der z.B. an einer Flüssigkristallanzeige angezeigt wird.To a certain extent, the operator receives a key for opening the machine in exchange for data. In a way, she takes back a delivery note for the collected coins to the operator with her card. The same person can therefore easily be used to refill the products and collect the coins, which considerably reduces the personnel expenditure. After the operator returns, the data stored on the card are read into a computer. The operator not only receives a receipt for the coins collected, but also valuable information about the planning of the Maintenance and commitment of the operating team. If, for example, an automat is often sold out considerably before the next operation, its operating cycle can be adjusted accordingly. If a machine frequently rejects coins of one type, the coin validator of this machine can be set differently by a mechanic. Batteries do not need to be serviced prophylactically. Different products can be sold on one and the same machine, for example a different magazine every weekday, whereby the machine of the machine is automatically programmed to the current price of the magazine offered, which is displayed, for example, on a liquid crystal display.

Der erfindungsgemässe Automat kann deshalb erheblich kostengünstiger betrieben werden.The automat according to the invention can therefore be operated considerably more cost-effectively.

Ausserdem ermöglicht der erfindungsgemässe Automat z.B. die Ausgabe von Kunden-Abonnementen an Kunden. Eine Kundenkarte öffnet selbstverständlich den Automaten nicht, sondern bewirkt beim Einstecken, dass eine Zeitung abgegeben und gleichzeitig diese Karte für diesen Tag gesperrt wird. Der Kunde kann also mit der Karte täglich an jedem beliebigen erfindungsgemässen Automaten, welcher die abonnierte Zeitung enthält, eine solche beziehen.In addition, the automat according to the invention enables, for example, the issue of customer subscriptions to customers. Of course, a customer card does not open the machine, but when inserted, causes a newspaper to be handed in and at the same time this card is blocked for that day. The customer can therefore use the card every day to obtain one from any machine according to the invention which contains the subscribed newspaper.

Eine weitere Möglichkeit besteht darin, dass die Kundenkarte als Wertkarte wirkt. In diesem Fall wird bei der Ausgabe eines Produktes der entsprechende Kaufpreis abgebucht. Die Karte kann z.B. an einem separaten Automaten aufgewertet werden.Another possibility is that the customer card acts as a prepaid card. In this case, the corresponding purchase price will be debited when a product is issued. The card can e.g. be upgraded on a separate machine.

Eine weitere Möglichkeit ist die Ausgabe sogenannter Bingo-Karten, welche z.B. zu Werbezwecken die Gratisabgabe einer bestimmten Anzahl eines bestimmten Artikels ermöglicht.Another option is to issue so-called bingo cards, which e.g. enables the free delivery of a certain number of a certain article for advertising purposes.

Nachfolgend wird ein Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung anhand der Zeichnungen erläutert. Darin zeigt:

Fig. 1
einen schematischen Querschnitt durch einen Teil eines Zeitungsverkaufsautomaten,
Fig. 2
ein Detail des Münzenprüfers im Schnitt,
Fig. 3
eine Bediener-Karte, und
Fig. 4
einen schematischen Querschnitt durch einen andern Teil des Automaten.
An exemplary embodiment of the invention is explained below with reference to the drawings. It shows:
Fig. 1
1 shows a schematic cross section through part of a newspaper vending machine,
Fig. 2
a detail of the coin validator on average,
Fig. 3
an operator card, and
Fig. 4
a schematic cross section through another part of the machine.

Der Zeitungsverkaufsautomat nach Fig. 1 und 4 hat ein Gehäuse 1, das oben offen und durch einen um ein Scharnier 3 klappbaren Deckel 2 verschlossen ist. Am Deckel 2 ist ein Haken 4 angebracht, der in der geschlossenen Stellung hinter einer am Gehäuse 1 schwenkbar angelenkten Klinke 5 einrastet. Die Klinke 5 ist durch eine Feder 6 in die Sperrstellung belastet und kann durch einen Elektromagneten 7 in die Entsperrstellung gezogen werden.1 and 4 has a housing 1 which is open at the top and closed by a lid 2 which can be hinged about a hinge 3. On the cover 2, a hook 4 is attached, which is behind in the closed position a pawl 5 pivotably articulated on the housing 1 engages. The pawl 5 is loaded by a spring 6 into the locked position and can be pulled into the unlocked position by an electromagnet 7.

Im Gehäuse 1 ist ein Münzenprüfer 9 montiert. Ein Münzeneinwurfschlitz 10 ist mit einem Münzenprüfkanal 11 verbunden. Dieser enthält auf einer gedruckten Schaltungsplatte 12, welche die eine Seitenwand des Kanals 11 bildet, mehrere elektromagnetische und elektrooptische Messelemente 13. In Fig. 2 ist schematisch ein Schnitt durch den Münzenprüfer 9 dargestellt. Der Kanal 11 wird gebildet durch die Schaltungsplatte 12, eine gegenüberliegende gedruckte Schaltungsplatte 14 und eine Metallschiene 15, auf welcher die Münzen 17 rollen. Der Prüfer 9 wird durch Schrauben 16 zusammengehalten. Die auf den Platten 12, 14 montierten Messelemente 13 umfassen mindestens zwei Lichtschranken je gebildet aus einer lichtemittierenden Diode 20 und einem Photoempfänger 21. Diode 20 und Empfänger 21 sind mit Abstand von den Platten 12, 14 montiert. Eine sehr präzise, scharf definierte Position der Lichtschranke wird dadurch erreicht, dass das Licht der Diode 20 durch zwei enge Bohrungen 19 in den Platten 12, 14 passiert, bevor es den Empfänger 21 erreicht. Dadurch kann der Durchmesser der Münzen 17 genau gemessen werden.A coin validator 9 is mounted in the housing 1. A coin insertion slot 10 is connected to a coin check channel 11. This contains a plurality of electromagnetic and electro-optical measuring elements 13 on a printed circuit board 12, which forms the one side wall of the channel 11. A section through the coin validator 9 is shown schematically in FIG. The channel 11 is formed by the circuit board 12, an opposing printed circuit board 14 and a metal rail 15 on which the coins 17 roll. The tester 9 is held together by screws 16. The measuring elements 13 mounted on the plates 12, 14 comprise at least two light barriers each formed from a light-emitting diode 20 and a photo receiver 21. Diode 20 and receiver 21 are mounted at a distance from the plates 12, 14. A very precise, sharply defined position of the light barrier is achieved in that the light from the diode 20 passes through two narrow bores 19 in the plates 12, 14 before it reaches the receiver 21. As a result, the diameter of the coins 17 can be measured precisely.

Ferner umfasst der Prüfer 9 elektromagnetische Messelemente 22, welche z.B. die Dicke der Münze 17, deren Material und/oder Gewicht messen.Furthermore, the tester 9 comprises electromagnetic measuring elements 22, which e.g. measure the thickness of the coin 17, its material and / or weight.

Am Ende des Prüfkanals 11 befindet sich eine Weiche 25, welche mittels eines Elektromagneten 26 in zwei Stellungen gestellt werden kann. In der dargestellten Grundstellung leitet die Weiche 25 die akzeptierten Münzen 17 in eine als Schale ausgebildete Zwischenkasse 30. In der andern Stellung leitet die Weiche 25 die refusierten Münzen 17 in eine Rückgabeschale 33.At the end of the test channel 11 there is a switch 25 which can be set in two positions by means of an electromagnet 26. In the basic position shown, the switch 25 guides the accepted coins 17 into an intermediate check 30 designed as a tray. In the other position, the switch 25 guides the refused coins 17 into a return tray 33.

Die Zwischenkasse 30 ist aus der dargestellten horizontalen Grundstellung um eine Achse 31 mittels eines Elektromagneten 32 in beiden Richtungen schwenkbar. In der einen Schwenkstellung gleiten die Münzen durch eine Oeffnung 34 in die Rückgabeschale 33, in der andern Schwenkstellung in einen Sammelbehälter 35.The intermediate checkout 30 can be swiveled in both directions from the horizontal basic position shown about an axis 31 by means of an electromagnet 32. In one swivel position, the coins slide through an opening 34 into the return tray 33, in the other swivel position into a collection container 35.

Im Gehäuse 1 ist ein Schlitz 40 zum Einstecken einer Karte 41 angebracht. Die Karte 41 hat auf beiden Seiten am einen Ende je einen programmierbaren Datenträger 42 (Fig. 3) in Form einer integrierten Schaltung, der mit elektrisch leitenden Kontaktflächen 43 verbunden ist. In der eingeschobenen Stellung der Karte 41 stehen Kontaktzungen 44 mit den Kontaktflächen 43 in Verbindung. Die Kontaktzungen 44 sind auf einem Träger 45 montiert, der zweckmässig Teil der Schaltungsplatte 12 ist. Die Kontaktzungen 44 sind mit einem programmierbaren Rechner 50 verbunden, der ebenfalls auf der Schaltungsplatte 12 montiert ist. Dem Rechner 50 ist ein Speicher 51 zugeordnet. Der Rechner 50 verarbeitet die von den Messelementen 13, 22 erzeugten Daten und steuert über je einen Verstärker 52 die Elektromagnete 7, 26 und 32. Die Stromversorgung des Automaten wird aus auf dem Gehäuse 1 angeordneten photovoltaischen Zellen 55 und einem Akkumulator 56 gebildet.A slot 40 for inserting a card 41 is provided in the housing 1. The card 41 has on both sides at one end a programmable data carrier 42 (FIG. 3) in the form of an integrated circuit which is connected to electrically conductive contact surfaces 43. In the inserted position of the card 41, contact tongues 44 are connected to the contact surfaces 43. The contact tongues 44 are mounted on a carrier 45, which is conveniently part of the Circuit board 12 is. The contact tongues 44 are connected to a programmable computer 50, which is also mounted on the circuit board 12. A memory 51 is assigned to the computer 50. The computer 50 processes the data generated by the measuring elements 13, 22 and controls the electromagnets 7, 26 and 32 via an amplifier 52 each. The power supply of the machine is formed from photovoltaic cells 55 arranged on the housing 1 and an accumulator 56.

In Fig. 4 ist der Teil des Automaten schematisch dargestellt, in welchem die Ausgabe von Zeitungen und Zeitschriften 61 erfolgt. Der Zeitungsstapel ist auf einem höhenverstellbaren Tisch 60 gestapelt. Der Tisch 60 kann in der Höhe so verstellt werden, dass die oberste Zeitung 61 des Stapels immer auf derselben Höhe ist.4 schematically shows the part of the machine in which newspapers and magazines 61 are issued. The stack of newspapers is stacked on a height-adjustable table 60. The table 60 can be adjusted in height so that the top newspaper 61 of the stack is always at the same height.

Am Deckel 2 sind zwei verzahnte Rollen 62, 63 drehbar gelagert. Die Rolle 63 ist mit der Abtriebswelle eines reversierbaren Motors 64 verbunden. Ueber die Rollen 62, 63 ist ein endloser Zahnriemen 65 gespannt. Am Zahnriemen 65 ist ein Träger 66 befestigt, an welchem ein Arm 67 angelenkt ist. Am freien Ende des Arms 67 ist eine Walze 68 drehbar gelagert. Der Winkelbereich der Drehbewegung der Walze 68 ist durch nicht dargestellte Anschläge auf etwa 60° begrenzt. In der einen, dargestellten Grenzstellung ragen von der Walze 68 Stacheln 69 nach vorn und unten ab. In dieser Stellung wird beim Einschalten des Motors 64 die oberste Zeitung 61 erfasst und aus einem Ausgabeschlitz 73 ausgeschoben.Two toothed rollers 62, 63 are rotatably mounted on the cover 2. The roller 63 is connected to the output shaft of a reversible motor 64. An endless toothed belt 65 is stretched over the rollers 62, 63. A carrier 66 is fastened to the toothed belt 65 and an arm 67 is articulated to it. At the free end of the arm 67, a roller 68 is rotatably mounted. The angular range of the rotary movement of the roller 68 is limited to approximately 60 ° by stops, not shown. In the one limit position shown, spikes 69 protrude from the roller 68 forward and downward. In this Position, the uppermost newspaper 61 is detected when the motor 64 is switched on and pushed out from an output slot 73.

Der Motor 64 wird vom Rechner 50 eingeschaltet, sobald der korrekte Münzenbetrag in der Zwischenkasse 30 liegt. Der Motor 64 reversiert, sobald der Träger 66 einen nicht dargestellten Endschalter erreicht hat. Beim Zurückfahren des Trägers 66 rollt die Walze 68 zunächst auf der Zeitung 61 ab, so dass die Stacheln 69 abgehoben werden, und gleitet anschliessend auf dieser Zeitung 61 auf die nächstfolgende, bis der Träger 66 in der dargestellten hinteren Grenzstellung einen weiteren Endschalter schaltet.The motor 64 is switched on by the computer 50 as soon as the correct amount of coins is in the cash register 30. The motor 64 reverses as soon as the carrier 66 has reached a limit switch, not shown. When the carrier 66 moves back, the roller 68 first rolls on the newspaper 61 so that the spikes 69 are lifted off, and then slides on this newspaper 61 to the next one until the carrier 66 switches a further limit switch in the rear limit position shown.

Vor dem Ausgabeschlitz 73 ist ein Fühler 74, dargestellt als Lichtschranke, angebracht, der die ausgeschobene Zeitung 61 dem Rechner 50 meldet. Der Rechner 50 betätigt auf dieses Signal hin den Magneten 32, so dass der kassierte Betrag von der Zwischenkasse 30 in den Sammelbehälter 35 fällt.A sensor 74, shown as a light barrier, is attached in front of the output slot 73 and reports the newspaper 61 to the computer 50 when it is pushed out. The computer 50 actuates the magnet 32 in response to this signal, so that the amount collected falls from the intermediate checkout 30 into the collecting container 35.

Sollte bei der Zeitungsausgabe eine Störung auftreten, z.B. wenn eine Zeitung 61 verklemmt ist, wird eine vorbestimmte Zeit, z.B. 5 Sekunden, nach dem Einschalten der Motor 64 reversiert und in die Grundstellung gefahren. Gleichzeitig wird über den Rechner 50 der Magnet 32 so angesteuert, dass die Zwischenkasse 30 in die Rückgabeschale 33 entleert wird. Diese Geldrückgabe kann auch erfolgen, wenn z.B. eine gewisse Zeit keine weiteren Münzen eingeworfen werden, obwohl der Kaufpreis noch nicht voll bezahlt ist, oder wenn andere Störungen die Zeitungsausgabe verunmöglichen. Dadurch kann auf das Anbringen einer Rückgabetaste verzichtet werden.If a malfunction occurs during newspaper delivery, for example if a newspaper 61 is jammed, a predetermined time, for example 5 seconds, is reversed after the motor 64 is switched on and moved into the basic position. At the same time, the magnet 32 is controlled via the computer 50 in such a way that the intermediate checkout 30 is emptied into the return tray 33 becomes. This money can also be returned if, for example, no further coins are inserted for a certain time, although the purchase price has not yet been paid in full, or if other disruptions make it impossible to issue the newspaper. This means that there is no need to attach a return button.

Der beschriebene Automat ist ausserordentlich bedienungs- und benützerfreundlich und sehr gut gegen mutwillige Beschädigung geschützt, da er keine zu betätigenden Hebel oder Knöpfe aufweist. Er bringt für die Bewirtschaftung ausserordentliche Vorteile, was in der Beschreibungseinleitung erläutert wurde.The described machine is extremely user and user-friendly and is very well protected against willful damage, since it has no levers or buttons to be operated. It brings extraordinary advantages for management, which was explained in the introduction to the description.

Falls sich der Bezug von Zeitungen mittels Kundenkarten eingeführt hat, können auch Verkaufsautomaten ohne Münzenprüfer 9, Zwischenkasse 30, Sammelbehälter 35 und Rückgabeschale 33 eingesetzt werden. Diese Verkaufsautomaten sind entsprechend preiswerter herstellbar, betriebssicherer und einfacher zu warten.If the purchase of newspapers by means of customer cards has been introduced, vending machines without a coin validator 9, cash register 30, collecting container 35 and return tray 33 can also be used. These vending machines are cheaper to manufacture, more reliable and easier to maintain.

Claims (10)

  1. Automatic coin collector for automatic vending machines for the delivery of products or services, in particular newspapers and journals, consisting of a housing (1) with an opening and a closing element (2) for the closing thereof, which in its closed setting is latched by a locking organ (5), which is unlatchable by an actuating organ (7), as well as with a programmable computer (50) and a storage device (51) connected therewith and for the storage of data, furthermore with a coin-checking device (9), which is arranged within the housing, with a slot for the insertion of coins and a checking channel (11), which is connected therewith and comprises measuring elements (13, 22), which stand in connection with the computer (50), for the checking of the coins and with an intermediate cash register (30) arranged in the housing as well as with a collecting container (35), which is arranged in the housing and into which the checking channel (35) opens, characterised thereby, that a data-transmitting element (44, 45), which is arranged in the housing and connected with the programmable computer (50) is provided for the reading of data from a card (41) with a programmable data carrier (42) and for the transfer of data onto the card (41), that an operating member (52), which is connected with the computer (50) and the actuating organ (7), is provided for the activation of the actuating organ (7) on a command of the computer (50) and the actuating organ (7) is activated by mere insertion of an appropriately programmed card (41) into a slot at the housing (1) and the collecting container (35) becomes accessible to an authorised operating person after opening of the closing element (35).
  2. Automatic coin collector according to claim 1, characterised thereby, that the data-transmitting element (45) comprises several electrically conductive contacts (44), which lie against corresponding contact surfaces (43) of the card (41) when it is inserted.
  3. Automatic coin collector according to claim 1 and 2, characterised thereby, that the intermediate cash register (30) comprises an electromagnet (32), which is controlled by the computer (50) and which empties the contents of the intermediate cash register (30) into the collecting container (35) in the case of the delivery of a product and into a return pan (33) in all other cases.
  4. Automatic coin collector according to one of hte claims 1 to 3, characterised thereby, that at least one of both the side walls of the checking channel (11) is formed by a printed circuit board (12, 14), at which the measuring elements (13, 22) are arranged.
  5. Automatic coin collector according to claim 4, characterised thereby, that the measuring elements (13, 22) are electromagnetic measuring elements (22) and comprise at least two light barriers (20, 21) with an emitter (20) and a receiver (21), wherein narrow bores (19) are present between the emitter (20) and the receiver (21) in the circuit boards (12, 14) for the exact positioning of the light barrier.
  6. Automatic coin collector according to one of the claims 1 to 5, characterised by a delivery opening (73), for the products (61) and an electrical motor (64), which is controlled by the computer (50), for the ejection of the products (61).
  7. Automatic coin collector according to claim 6, characterised thereby, that a sensor (74), which stands in connection with the computer (50), for the ascertaining of the delivery of the product (61) concerned is arranged in front of the delivery opening (73) and that the computer (50) is programmed in such a manner that, on a signal of the sensor (74), it empties the intermediate cash register (30) into the collecting container (35).
  8. Automatic coin collector according to one of the preceding claims, characterised thereby, that a current supply is provided, which is formed of photo-voltaic cells (55) and an accumulator (56).
  9. Automatic coin collector according to one of the claims 1 to 7, characterised thereby, that a vertically displaceable table (60), which is arranged in the housing (1), is provided for the offered products (61), that an electrical motor (64) which is controlled by the computer (50), is provided with an actuating equipment (67, 68, 69) for the delivery of a respective one of the products (61) through a delivery opening (73) of the housing (1) and that a current supply is provided, which is formed of photo-voltaic cells (55) and an accumulator (56).
  10. Automatic coin collector for automatic vending machines according to one of the preceding claims, characterised thereby, that the delivery of products or services ensues on the insertion of an appropriately programmed customer card (41) into the slot (40).
EP93105593A 1992-05-22 1993-04-05 Automatic coin collector Expired - Lifetime EP0570692B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CH165992 1992-05-22
CH1659/92 1992-05-22

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0570692A1 EP0570692A1 (en) 1993-11-24
EP0570692B1 true EP0570692B1 (en) 1997-07-16

Family

ID=4215635

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP93105593A Expired - Lifetime EP0570692B1 (en) 1992-05-22 1993-04-05 Automatic coin collector

Country Status (8)

Country Link
US (1) US5415264A (en)
EP (1) EP0570692B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE155599T1 (en)
DE (1) DE59306912D1 (en)
DK (1) DK0570692T3 (en)
ES (1) ES2106913T3 (en)
FI (1) FI107197B (en)
NO (1) NO303854B1 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE10353250A1 (en) * 2003-11-13 2005-06-23 Eldomat Innovative Sicherheit Gmbh Method for servicing automatic vending machines with security, has an identification system and a keyless lock to the service opening

Families Citing this family (39)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5816083A (en) * 1991-10-21 1998-10-06 Bianco; James S. Electronic lock system
FR2685113B1 (en) * 1991-12-17 1998-07-24 Gemplus Card Int PROCESS OF INTERVENTION ON A TERMINAL OF GOODS OR SERVICES.
IT235078Y1 (en) * 1994-11-25 2000-03-31 Vitrifrigo S N C Di Vitri Alce ROOM REFRIGERATOR WITH ELECTRONIC KEY FOR CONSUMPTION RECORDING
US5654595A (en) * 1994-12-29 1997-08-05 Ferguson; Thomas R. Electrical current regulating device for a power tool
US5780842A (en) * 1996-04-10 1998-07-14 Murphey; James D. Item dispensing control system for use in vending devices
US6295482B1 (en) * 1996-06-26 2001-09-25 Sun Microsystems, Inc. Electronic newspaper vending machine
US5799768A (en) * 1996-07-17 1998-09-01 Compunetics, Inc. Coin identification apparatus
US5907141A (en) * 1996-07-19 1999-05-25 Mars Incorporated Use of security coupons in connection with locking mechanisms for vending and gaming machines
JPH10143720A (en) * 1996-11-12 1998-05-29 Showa Yuuen Kk Coin collecting device
US5926796A (en) * 1997-05-05 1999-07-20 Walker Asset Management Limited Partnership Method and apparatus for selling subscriptions to periodicals in a retail environment
US7546277B1 (en) 1997-10-09 2009-06-09 Walker Digital, Llc Method and apparatus for dynamically managing vending machine inventory prices
US7233912B2 (en) 1997-08-26 2007-06-19 Walker Digital, Llc Method and apparatus for vending a combination of products
US7383200B1 (en) 1997-05-05 2008-06-03 Walker Digital, Llc Method and apparatus for collecting and categorizing data at a terminal
US7162434B1 (en) 1997-05-05 2007-01-09 Walker Digital, Llc Method and apparatus for facilitating the sale of subscriptions to periodicals
US7894936B2 (en) 1997-10-09 2011-02-22 Walker Digital, Llc Products and processes for managing the prices of vending machine inventory
US6125988A (en) * 1998-04-13 2000-10-03 Agent Systems, Inc. System and method for providing farebox accountability
GB2342115B (en) * 1998-09-30 2001-04-18 Marconi Comm Ltd Improvements in or relating to locking arrangements for a vending machine
US6028516A (en) * 1998-10-01 2000-02-22 Murphey; James D. Trigger circuit
US6735498B2 (en) 1999-05-11 2004-05-11 Kim Marie Hertz Automated newspaper rack inventory and alert management system
US6502012B1 (en) * 1999-05-11 2002-12-31 Kim Marie Nelson Newspaper rack automated inventory monitoring request apparatus and method
AU5135400A (en) * 1999-06-30 2001-01-22 Walker Digital, Llc Vending machine system and method for encouraging the purchase of profitable items
KR20020063566A (en) * 1999-10-28 2002-08-03 모션트 커뮤니케이션즈 인코포레이티드 System and method of aggregating data from a plurality of data generating machines
US7089322B1 (en) 1999-10-28 2006-08-08 Motient Communications Inc. System and method of aggregating data from a plurality of data generating machines
FR2817584B1 (en) * 2000-12-01 2003-09-05 Schlumberger Systems & Service DEVICE FOR SECURING ACCESS TO CONTENT LOCATED WITHIN A SPEAKER
US20030232760A1 (en) * 2001-09-21 2003-12-18 Merck & Co., Inc. Conjugates useful in the treatment of prostate cancer
US7184857B1 (en) 2002-02-28 2007-02-27 Kim Marie Hertz Automated news rack inventory and alert management system
US7529597B1 (en) * 2002-02-28 2009-05-05 Kim Marie Hertz Automated news rack inventory and alert management system
US20040015395A1 (en) * 2002-07-21 2004-01-22 Charles Acosta Method and system of generating an incentive at a point of sale
EP1418551A1 (en) * 2002-10-23 2004-05-12 Smedefirmaet Boka A/S Apparatus for individually dispensing flat objects
EP1638704B1 (en) * 2003-06-09 2011-04-27 Big Belly Solar, Inc. Solar powered compaction apparatus
US7481159B2 (en) * 2003-06-09 2009-01-27 Seahorse Power Company Solar powered compaction apparatus
US20080067227A1 (en) * 2003-06-09 2008-03-20 Poss James A Eletrically-powered programmable package deposit enclosure
US7014114B2 (en) * 2003-10-02 2006-03-21 Symbol Technologies, Inc. Image capture device for and method of electro-optically reading indicia at low ambient light levels
US20080017473A1 (en) * 2004-06-24 2008-01-24 Nunn Michael D Removable Hinged Cashbox
US8364520B1 (en) 2008-08-15 2013-01-29 Freeosk Marketing, Inc. Method for measuring effectiveness of sampling activity and providing pre-market product feedback
US10319173B2 (en) * 2008-10-22 2019-06-11 Newzoom, Inc. Vending store inventory management and reporting system
US8538587B2 (en) * 2009-05-21 2013-09-17 Lennox Industries Inc. HVAC system with automated blower capacity dehumidification, a HVAC controller therefor and a method of operation thereof
US8479648B2 (en) * 2010-09-28 2013-07-09 Marathon Equipment Company Solar-powered waste compactor and method of operation thereof
US9398833B2 (en) 2012-04-25 2016-07-26 Sca Hygiene Products Ab Paper product dispensing system and related methods

Family Cites Families (27)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2432415A (en) * 1947-12-09 Newspaper dispensing apparatus
US2819817A (en) * 1953-06-12 1958-01-14 Mackenzie John Newspaper, magazine, or like vending machines
BR7303397D0 (en) * 1973-05-10 1974-12-31 Diverama Diversoes Automaticas PROCESS OF COLLECTION APPLICABLE IN DEVICES OF DIVAS ERSOES SALES IN AUTOMATIC SERVICES ACTIVATED BY FICKS OR MOE
GB1458407A (en) * 1974-01-30 1976-12-15 Gross M Newspaper or like article vending machine
CH601870A5 (en) * 1976-07-19 1978-07-14 Autelca Ag
US4369442A (en) * 1977-09-06 1983-01-18 Robert L. Werth Code controlled microcontroller readout from coin operated machine
US4272757A (en) * 1979-04-05 1981-06-09 Mars, Incorporated Vending machine accountability system
FR2457524B1 (en) * 1979-05-23 1985-11-15 Chauvat & Sofranq Reunis CODED CARD DOOR FOR SELECTIVE DOOR OPENING
DE3113946A1 (en) * 1981-04-07 1982-10-28 Hollmann Gmbh & Co, 4800 Bielefeld Vending machine, especially self-service vending machine
DE3207148A1 (en) * 1982-02-27 1983-09-15 Harting Elektronik Gmbh, 4992 Espelkamp Accessory device for mechanical product-vending machine
US4598378A (en) * 1983-02-07 1986-07-01 H.R. Electronics Company Management information system and associated vending control device
US4598810A (en) * 1984-04-17 1986-07-08 Abm Industries, Inc. Apparatus and method for vending and accepting return of re-usable articles
US4696385A (en) * 1984-06-05 1987-09-29 Digital Products Corporation Electronic coin detection apparatus
JPH0682427B2 (en) * 1985-03-22 1994-10-19 サンデン株式会社 vending machine
US4654513A (en) * 1985-07-31 1987-03-31 Hennessy Products, Inc. Newspaper vending machine
GB8614620D0 (en) * 1986-06-16 1986-07-23 Schlumberger Electronics Uk Commodity metering systems
US5136284A (en) * 1987-03-06 1992-08-04 Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha Security system
US4967895A (en) * 1987-04-16 1990-11-06 Pom, Incorporated Parameter control system for electronic parking meter
GB2207910B (en) * 1987-07-28 1991-02-27 Journomat Ag Vending machine for newspapers or periodicals
US5147021A (en) * 1987-09-29 1992-09-15 Nippon Conlux Co., Ltd. Vending machine
US4845484A (en) * 1987-10-09 1989-07-04 Bellatrix Systems, Inc. Retrofit, newspaper tracking audit system for newspaper rack machines
DK546087A (en) * 1987-10-19 1989-04-20 Gn Telematic A S METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR THE EXAMINATION OF MOUNTS
DE3802186C2 (en) * 1987-11-02 1996-03-28 Nsm Ag System for evaluating data from a coin-operated gaming device
US4907250A (en) * 1988-01-15 1990-03-06 Ricks Jeffery D Method and apparatus for counting events in a vending machine and the like
DE3909323A1 (en) * 1989-03-17 1990-09-20 Kluessendorf Ag METHOD FOR OPERATING AN AUTOMATE
ES2020410A6 (en) * 1990-01-29 1991-08-01 Azkoyen Ind Sa Electronic method and circuit for analyzing analog signals
DE4108180A1 (en) * 1991-03-09 1992-09-10 Francotyp Postalia Gmbh METHOD AND DEVICE FOR PROCESSING POST GOODS

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE10353250A1 (en) * 2003-11-13 2005-06-23 Eldomat Innovative Sicherheit Gmbh Method for servicing automatic vending machines with security, has an identification system and a keyless lock to the service opening

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FI107197B (en) 2001-06-15
ES2106913T3 (en) 1997-11-16
DE59306912D1 (en) 1997-08-21
NO931775D0 (en) 1993-05-14
NO931775L (en) 1993-11-23
EP0570692A1 (en) 1993-11-24
US5415264A (en) 1995-05-16
FI932226A (en) 1993-11-23
FI932226A0 (en) 1993-05-17
ATE155599T1 (en) 1997-08-15
NO303854B1 (en) 1998-09-07
DK0570692T3 (en) 1997-12-29

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP0570692B1 (en) Automatic coin collector
DE3222445C2 (en)
DE69835685T2 (en) MEHRTRANSAKTIONSMÜNZGERÄT
DE69725011T2 (en) SAFETY AUTHORIZATION CERTIFICATE FOR ELECTRONIC LOCKING DEVICE IN SALES MACHINES
DE69421866T2 (en) Electronic franking system with a mechanical device for handling mail items
EP0744719A2 (en) Device for processing coins
DE2730587C2 (en)
EP1709604A1 (en) Self service teller system
DE3641806C2 (en) Currency exchange facility in a gaming facility
EP2215608A1 (en) Device for receiving and/or issuing payment means and/or for processing value documents
EP0006596A2 (en) Circuitry for indicating a credit balance
DE2530984C3 (en) Day / night safe system
EP2452321B1 (en) Apparatus for managing, accepting and/or dispensing valuables
DE3412695C2 (en)
EP1659549A1 (en) Method and system for collecting article data
EP0287049B1 (en) Process for the settlement and collection of money in coin-activated automatic machines, and installation for carrying out the process
DE60027583T2 (en) Cash processing device
DE102011109392B4 (en) Vending Machine
EP0716765B1 (en) Card dispenser comprising a coin counter
DE102010037316A1 (en) Device for managing value documents, comprises strong box having value document receiving container for safe-keeping of value documents, where input or output unit is arranged on one side for input or output of value documents
DE202004020790U1 (en) Data processing system for keeping track of goods in supermarket has mobile unit with data reader for barcode or RFID chip industrial robot incorporates store for data
DE4237041A1 (en) Item e.g. magnetic video cassette, compact disc, audio cassette dispensing machine for lending library - has front panel loading for identification of magnetic or chip data card to control selection delivered through front slot
DE19702400B4 (en) Method for activating a coin operated amusement machine with profit opportunity
DE19806648A1 (en) Checking control system for self-scanned supermarket goods
DE60123473T2 (en) MACHINE AND METHOD FOR SUBMITTING BANKNOTES

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE DK ES FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE

RBV Designated contracting states (corrected)

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE DK ES FR GB IT LI LU MC NL PT SE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 19940418

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 19950301

GRAG Despatch of communication of intention to grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS AGRA

GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE DK ES FR GB IT LI LU MC NL PT SE

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 155599

Country of ref document: AT

Date of ref document: 19970815

Kind code of ref document: T

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 59306912

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 19970821

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PFA

Free format text: JOURNOMAT AG,RAEFFELSTRASSE 12,CH-8045 ZUERICH (CH) TRANSFER- JOURNOMAT AG,NEUHOFSTRASSE 1,6340 BAAR (CH)

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: NV

Representative=s name: INVENTIO AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT

GBT Gb: translation of ep patent filed (gb section 77(6)(a)/1977)

Effective date: 19970811

ET Fr: translation filed
ITF It: translation for a ep patent filed
RAP4 Party data changed (patent owner data changed or rights of a patent transferred)

Owner name: JOURNOMAT AG

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FG2A

Ref document number: 2106913

Country of ref document: ES

Kind code of ref document: T3

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DK

Ref legal event code: T3

BECA Be: change of holder's address

Free format text: 970716 *JOURNOMAT A.G.:NEUHOFSTRASSE 1,CH-6340 BAAR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: PT

Ref legal event code: SC4A

Free format text: AVAILABILITY OF NATIONAL TRANSLATION

Effective date: 19970919

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed
PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19981031

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: IF02

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SE

Payment date: 20020327

Year of fee payment: 10

Ref country code: DK

Payment date: 20020327

Year of fee payment: 10

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Payment date: 20020328

Year of fee payment: 10

Ref country code: AT

Payment date: 20020328

Year of fee payment: 10

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20020402

Year of fee payment: 10

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: PT

Payment date: 20020404

Year of fee payment: 10

Ref country code: LU

Payment date: 20020404

Year of fee payment: 10

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Payment date: 20020412

Year of fee payment: 10

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20020416

Year of fee payment: 10

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Payment date: 20020418

Year of fee payment: 10

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20030405

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20030405

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20030405

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20030406

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20030407

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20030430

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20030430

BERE Be: lapsed

Owner name: *JOURNOMAT A.G.

Effective date: 20030430

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20031031

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20031101

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20030405

NLV4 Nl: lapsed or anulled due to non-payment of the annual fee

Effective date: 20031101

EUG Se: european patent has lapsed
REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DK

Ref legal event code: EBP

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20031231

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST

Ref country code: PT

Ref legal event code: MM4A

Free format text: LAPSE DUE TO NON-PAYMENT OF FEES

Effective date: 20031031

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FD2A

Effective date: 20030407

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20050405

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20090422

Year of fee payment: 17

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CH

Payment date: 20090715

Year of fee payment: 17

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20100430

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20101103

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20100430