FR2768535A1 - COIN MECHANISM IN PARTICULAR FOR VENDING MACHINES - Google Patents

Abstract

Coin mechanism preventing fraudulent use of a vending machine. A magnet (54) is housed in the arm (51) of a rocker arm (50) which is biased away from a part housing (42) of a part conveyor (40). The attractive force of the magnet (54) on a coin or magnetic token (1) inserted in the coin holder (42) overcomes the force urging the arm (51) of the rocker arm (50) by causing it to move towards the coin or token (1). In a magnetic coin mechanism, a latch (55) provided on the arm (51) of the rocker arm (50) withdraws from a rotating element (90), allowing the latter to rotate and thereby allowing the mechanism to operate. In a non-magnetic coin mechanism, a latch (56) provided on the arm (53) of the rocker arm (50) engages with the rotating member (90), preventing the latter from rotating and thereby preventing the mechanism (10) to operate. Application to automatic devices for dispensing products which can range from objects such as balls of chewing gum to parameter tickets.

Description

The present invention relates to a coin mechanism for

  automatic product dispensing machines. In particular, this invention relates to a coin mechanism for vending machines or other devices having a magnetic unlocking system which, in one embodiment, prevents the mechanism from triggering if a magnetic coin is deposited in the mechanism, and which, in another embodiment, prevents the mechanism from triggering if a non-magnetic coin is deposited in

the mechanism.

  o0 Rotary coin mechanisms are widely used in automatic product dispensing devices, such as

  vending machines for chewing gum balls or other small items.

  Vending machines are designed to be self-service with minimal maintenance, and are therefore frequently placed in locations where they cannot be easily monitored. So, such vending machines are constantly subjected to theft attempts

  products, usually by children and adolescents.

  A common type of theft from vending machines involves the use of "counterfeit coins" approximately the size of the

  coin that the coin mechanism is intended to accept.

  This has led to the development of very precise tolerance measurement mechanisms capable of determining the thickness and diameter of the workpiece.

  introduced currency, and this to a few thousandths of a centimeter.

  While counterfeits were once commonly cut or stamped from sheet metal, counterfeits made of plastics or hardboard have more recently become popular due to their low cost and the ease with which such counterfeits can be produced to the required size. Counterfeit cardboard coins present a particular problem in vending machines, since repeated attempts to force the mechanism to trip by placing a too large false cardboard piece in the coin holder can result in wear and tear gradual edges of the counterfeit until the edges are worn to a dimension within the tolerance limits of the cleat

  measurement, which means that the mechanism will accept the counterfeit coin.

  Another problem is raised by the use of coins from other countries which may have a lower relative value than that of a coin of the intended denomination, but which roughly coincide with the size and shape of the coin. coin intended to operate the dispenser. In some cases, such coins can be used in place of the intended coin, which similarly results in losses for the operator of the coin.

vending machine.

  In some cases, the coin intended to be accepted by the coin mechanism is a magnetic coin. It is therefore desirable to provide a system making it possible to prevent the mechanism from triggering unless the deposited coin is a magnetic coin, so that false plastic or cardboard coins, as well as coins non-magnetic currency from a foreign country, will not be accepted by the mechanism

  coin, even if these are the correct size.

  In other cases, the coin intended to be accepted by the coin mechanism is not a magnetic coin. It is therefore desirable to provide a system making it possible to prevent the mechanism from triggering unless the deposited coin is a non-magnetic coin, so that false steel coins, magnetic tokens, as well as coins magnetic coins from other countries, will not be accepted by the coin mechanism, even if they are of the correct size. It is particularly desirable to provide a system which can be easily adapted to these two cases by using substantially the same

various components.

  The present invention solves the above-mentioned problems by providing a coin mechanism for a vending machine which creates a magnetic unlocking system which can be adapted, in one magnetic coin embodiment, for use in a mechanism for accepting a magnetic coin or which can be adapted, in an embodiment to non-magnetic coins, for use in a mechanism for accepting a non-magnetic coin. In the magnetic coin embodiment, false plastic or cardboard coins, false metal coins containing no magnetic element, as well as non-magnetic coins from other countries, do not

  cannot be used to operate the coin mechanism.

  In the non-magnetic coin embodiment, counterfeit coins containing steel, as well as magnetic coins from other countries, cannot be used to operate the coin mechanism. This is done in the invention without interfering with existing security features such as coin measuring devices, and the invention thus creates an additional method of discriminating between coins of the intended denomination and others coins or counterfeit coins. In addition, in the preferred embodiments, this is done because the invention uses the same basic elements for both embodiments, only slight adaptations being necessary for each mode.

of achievement.

  The invention achieves the above by providing a rocker arm having a magnetized arm which is caused to move away from the housing for the magnetic parts or other receptacle in which a metal part is deposited.

in order to activate the mechanism.

  In the first embodiment, hereinafter called the "magnetic coin embodiment", in the stressed position, a latch acting on the magnetized rocker falls in the path of rotation of a rotating element, preventing the rotating element and preventing

  thus the magnetic coin mechanism to rotate and deliver the product.

  When a magnetic coin is deposited in the coin slot, the arm of the magnetized rocker arm moves toward the coin by magnetic attraction, thereby moving away from the rotating member, removing the latch and releasing the rotating element, allowing the mechanism

  to run throughout its distribution cycle.

  In the second embodiment, hereinafter called the "non-magnetic coin embodiment", the arm of the magnetized rocker does not have a lock and, in the stressed position, it does not interfere with the rotation of the rotating element or coin mechanism. When a coin or counterfeit magnetic coin is placed in the coin slot, the arm of the magnetized rocker arm moves towards the coin or counterfeit coin by magnetic attraction and thereby moves away from the rotating member , which causes an opposite arm on the opposite side of the rocker pivot axis to move toward the rotating member. In this embodiment, the opposite arm has a latch which thus falls into the rotation path of a housing or opening formed in the rotating member and prevents the rotating member from rotating, thereby preventing the mechanism from coins to be rotated and dispensed as long as the coin or counterfeit magnetic coin remains in the housing

for coins.

  The present invention thus creates a coin mechanism comprising a fixed frame having a cover plate having a coin opening, a handle fixed to a shaft extending through the cover plate, a coin conveyor comprising a coin receiving part, rotated with the shaft so that the coin receiving part is substantially aligned with the coin opening when the coin transporter is in a rest position, a rotating element spaced from the coin conveyor and engaged in rotation therewith, a movable rocker arm comprising a magnetized arm and a latch, mounted between the coin conveyor and the rotating element in a fixed relation in rotation with respect to the fixed frame, the rocker arm being movable between a locked position in which the latch falls into the rotation path of the rotating element to substantially prevent rotation of the rotating element, and an unlocked position in which the latch is removed from the rotation path of the rotating element to allow rotation of the rotating element, the magnetized arm of the rocker arm being biased towards the rotating element by a biasing force when the coin conveyor is in the rest position, so that when a coin or a magnetic token is deposited in the coin receiving portion, an attractive force of the magnetized arm on the coin or token is sufficient to overcome the biasing force and pull the magnetized arm toward the coin or token. causing the lock either to fall in the rotation path of the rotating element or to withdraw from the rotation path of the rotating element. The present invention further provides a coin mechanism comprising a fixed frame having a cover plate having a coin opening, a handle attached to a shaft extending through the cover plate, a coin conveyor comprising a coin receiving part, rotated with the shaft so that the coin receiving part is substantially aligned with the coin opening when the coin conveyor located in a rest position, a rotating element spaced from the coin conveyor and engaged in rotation with it, comprising a disc having an opening or a housing in which engages a lock for locking the rotating element in l preventing from turning, a movable rocker arm comprising a magnetized arm with a latch, mounted between the parts conveyor nnaie and the rotating element in a fixed relationship in rotation relative to the fixed frame, the rocker arm being movable between a locked position in which the latch falls in the rotation path of the rotating element in order to substantially prevent the rotation of the rotating element, and an unlocked position in which the lock is removed from the rotation path of the rotating element to allow the rotation of the rotating element, the magnetized arm of the rocker arm being biased towards the rotating element by a biasing force when the coin conveyor is in the rest position, so that when a coin or magnetic token is deposited in the coin receiving portion, an attractive force of the magnetized arm on the coin or token is sufficient to overcome the biasing force and pull the magnetized arm toward the coin or token by bringing the lock to be withdrawn from the rotation path of the rotating element. The present invention further provides a coin mechanism comprising a fixed frame having a cover plate having a coin opening, a handle attached to a shaft extending through the cover plate, a coin conveyor coin comprising a coin receiving part, rotated with the shaft in such a way that the coin receiving part is substantially aligned with the coin opening o0 when the coin transporter located in a rest position, a rotating element spaced from the coin conveyor and engaged in rotation therewith, comprising a disc having an opening or a housing in which engages a lock for locking the rotating element in l preventing from turning, a movable rocker arm comprising a magnetized arm having a pivot axis and an opposite arm arranged s on the opposite side of the pivot axis relative to the magnetized arm, mounted between the coin conveyor and the rotating element in a fixed relation in rotation relative to the fixed frame, the rocker arm being movable between a locked position in wherein the latch falls in the rotation path of the rotating element to substantially prevent rotation of the rotating element, and an unlocked position in which the latch is removed from the rotation path of the rotating element to allow rotation of the rotating element, the magnetized arm being biased towards the rotating element by a biasing force when the coin transporter is in the rest position, so that when a coin or a magnetic token is deposited in the coin receiving part, a force of attraction of the magnetized arm on the coin or the token is sufficient to build up the stress and pull the magnetized arm towards the coin or token, causing the lock to fall

  in the path of rotation of the rotating element.

  The invention will be better understood and other aims, characteristics,

  details and advantages thereof will become more apparent from the description

  Explanatory which will follow made with reference to the appended schematic drawings given solely by way of examples illustrating embodiments of the invention and in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of an automatic dispenser implementing the mechanism coins according to the invention, FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a coin mechanism according to the invention, FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the coin mechanism of FIG. 2, Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment with magnetic coins according to the invention, Figure 5 is a side elevation of the coin mechanism of Figure 4, partly in section and showing the rocker arm in a locked position, Figure 6 is a side elevation of the coin mechanism of Figure 4, partly in section and showing the rocker arm in an unlocked position Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment with non-magnetic coins according to the invention, Figure 8 is a side elevation of the coin mechanism of Figure 7, partly in section and showing the rocker arm in an unlocked position, Figure 9 is a side elevation of the coin mechanism of Figure 7, partly in section and showing the rocker arm in a locked position, Figure 10 is a front elevation of the rocker arm and the rotating element, Figure 11 is a side elevation of the coin conveyor and the rotating element, and it shows a preferred way of mounting the rocker arm, Figure 12a is a rear elevation of the rocker arm with the latch of the opposite arm removed by grinding in order to be used in an embodiment with magnetic coins according to the invention, Figure 12b is a rear elevation of the head With the lock of the magnetized arm removed by grinding for use in an embodiment with non-magnetic coins according to the invention, Figure 13 is an enlarged cross section of the arm of the magnetized rocker arm showing preferred to mount a magnet there, Figure 14 is an exploded perspective view of another magnetic coin embodiment of the coin mechanism according to the invention, and Figure 15 is a rear elevation of the rotating element and

  rocker mechanism of the coin mechanism of Figure 14.

  Referring now to the drawings, Figure 1 illustrates an automatic product dispensing apparatus, commonly known as an automatic dispenser and referenced 2, in which the coin mechanism 10 according to the invention can be used. The automatic dispenser 2 traditionally comprises a lower case 4 surrounding the system of the coin mechanism and a coin box (not illustrated) for collecting coins or tokens 1 which have been deposited, a transparent compartment 5 for storing objects for storing products such as chewing gum balls or other objects to be distributed, and a plate 6 which is rotated by a rotation of the coin mechanism 10 in order to align one a set of product holders with the opening of a distribution chute 8, as is moreover well known. It should be understood that, although the invention will be described below with reference to a coin, the term "coins" as used herein includes coins or tokens as well as the like and is in no way limited to coins having monetary value. It will also be understood that the coin mechanism according to the invention can be used in other types of apparatus actuated by a coin which does not however distribute products, such as for example parking meters, and that the invention is not limited to a particular application of the mechanism to

coins 10.

  As is well known to those skilled in the art, a traditional coin mechanism for a vending machine 2 is

  consists of a rotating part which rotates inside a fixed frame.

  The rotating part comprises a handle 30 fixed to a frustoconical shaft 32 which engages with the coin conveyor 40 through an opening 38. The shaft 32 has a flat (or slightly concave) longitudinal surface 32a for engaging in rotation the coin conveyor 40, and ends with a square end 32a which engages in a square housing 64a formed in a toothed wheel 64. Thus, a rotation of the handle 30 is transmitted via the shaft 32 to the drive gear 64 in order to rotate the plate 6 and deliver a

product to the user.

  The fixed frame comprises a cover plate 20 and a rear plate 80. The cover plate 20 has an opening 24 through which a coin can be deposited to actuate the mechanism, and it typically has a circular recess 22 in its rear face (as for example shown in Figures 4 and 7) in which the coin conveyor 40 rotates, with an opening 26 centered in the recess 22 and through which the shaft 32 extends in the mechanism. The rear plate 80 covers the coin conveyor 40 and is fixed to the cover plate 20 so as to be integral with the latter, for example by bolts 81. The rear plate 80 holds a coin 1 in a coin housing 42 along a rotation path followed by the coin 1 when the mechanism is caused to rotate. Thus, the cover plate 20 and the rear plate 80 remain fixed, integral with the automatic distributor 2 or any other device actuated by a coin, while the coin transporter 40 and the toothed wheel 64 are engaged in

  rotation with the shaft 32 and rotates when the handle 30 is caused to rotate.

  The coin transporter 40 comprises a coin receiving part for receiving a coin 1, and which, in the embodiment shown, comprises a coin housing 42 in which the coin is located 1 when transported on the rotation cycle of the coin mechanism. The coin housing 42 has a dimension corresponding to that of the coin 1 provided for actuating the mechanism, so that larger coins cannot be deposited in the mechanism. The coin receiving part of the coin conveyor 40 may, additionally or optionally, comprise a pair of pegs 42a spaced from each other, a flange (not

  illustrated) or any other means capable of supporting a coin 1.

  In the illustrated embodiment, the coin conveyor 40 is provided with peripheral ratchet teeth 41, teeth which cooperate with a pawl 66 urged against the teeth 41 by springs 66a to prevent reverse rotation of the mechanism 10 during the most of the distribution cycle. A separate gear could also be

used for this purpose.

  The coin mechanism illustrated comprises measuring devices making it possible to measure the thickness and the diameter of a coin deposited in the coin housing 42. A cleat 70 making it possible to measure the thickness of a coin 1 is mounted on the back plate 80, it is pressed against the coin housing 42 by a spring 70a, and it catches the rear edge of the coin housing 42 if a coin or a counterfeit coin which has been inserted is thinner than the intended coin 1, so as to stop the rotation of the mechanism. Another cleat 34 making it possible to measure the diameter of the coin 1 is mounted on the cover plate 20, it is pressed against the coin conveyor 40 by a spring 34a, and it catches the rear outer corner 35 of the housing of coins 42 if a coin or counterfeit coin that has been inserted does not have the diameter

  correct, so as to stop the rotation of the mechanism.

  The coin mechanism described so far will be well known to those skilled in the art. The coin mechanism 10 according to the present invention, of which preferred embodiments are illustrated in Figures 2 to 8, introduces a magnetic system to prevent rotation of the mechanism in two main embodiments: i) In the case of a mechanism 10 provided for accepting a magnetic coin 1, the invention prevents rotation of the mechanism 10 unless a magnetic coin is deposited in the coin housing 42. As defined herein, a coin coin is a magnetic coin if it contains a sufficient amount of a magnetic substance, such as iron, so as to allow a magnet 54 to exert a force of attraction on the coin. This embodiment is referred to herein as the "magnetic coin embodiment". ii) In the case of a mechanism 10 designed to accept a non-magnetic coin 1, the invention prevents the rotation of the mechanism 10 if a magnetic coin is deposited in the coin housing 42. This mode of embodiment is referred to herein as the "non-magnetic coin embodiment". As defined here, a coin is a non-magnetic coin if it does not contain a sufficient amount of a magnetic substance to allow a magnet 54

  to exert a force of attraction on the coin.

  In the two embodiments above, the device according to the invention comprises a movable rocker arm 50 fixed in rotation relative to the fixed frame, so that the rocker arm 50 can move axially but does not rotate with the shaft 32. The rocker arm 50 includes an arm 51 provided with a magnetic element such as a disc-shaped magnet 54 which is embedded in a hole in the arm 51 disposed in the vicinity of the coin housing 42 when the mechanism 10 is in the rest position, preferably so as to be at the front and rear faces of the arm 51. The magnet 54 may be a permanent magnet or an electromagnet. The magnet 54 can be fixed in position by crimping around the periphery of the hole, as shown in Figure 13, or it can alternatively be fixed using an epoxy resin or any suitable adhesive or by other ways. The arm 51 is hereinafter called the "magnetized arm" due to the magnetic attraction provided by the magnet 54 which

went up there.

  In the preferred embodiment, the rocker arm 50 is mounted on the rear plate 80. The rear plate 80 is thus provided, on both sides of the opening 86, with a pair of ribs 88 between which are placed one or two projections 57, as shown in Figure 11. Preferably, the depth of projections 57 is such that, when the rocker arm 50 is mounted around the shaft 32, the opening 52 is substantially centered in the space between the plate

  rear 80 and the rotating element 90.

  In the preferred embodiment, the opening 52 of the rocker arm is

  mounted around the hub 97 of a locking plate 92, described above

  below, in order to resist movement of the rocker arm 50, but the opening 52 is sufficiently larger than the hub 97 so as not to interfere with the rotation of the shaft 32 or with the rocking movement of the rocker arm 50. The arm 51 thus moves back and forth relative to the coin conveyor 40 (with the back plate 80 interposed between them), by pivoting on the projections 57 which form a pivot axis and separate the rocker arm 50 from the plate back 80 so the rocker 50

  can rotate between locked and unlocked positions.

  Because both the projections 57 and the ribs 88 are preferably rounded to facilitate free axial movement of the rocker arm 50, in the preferred embodiment, the rotational resistance of the rocker arm 50 is enhanced by a pair of bosses or pins 83 extending from the rear plate and which come into abutment with the lateral edges of the rocker arm 50 in order to prevent any rotation, that is to say to keep the rocker arm oriented in a fixed position in rotation with respect to to the fixed frame. It will however be understood that the projections 57 located between the ribs 88 will provide a certain degree of resistance to the rotation of the rocker arm 50 and that therefore it may not be necessary to mount the rocker arm 50 around the shaft 32 or to provide pins 83 acting to prevent rotation of the rocker arm 50. It will also be understood that the rocker arm 50 could be articulated to the rear plate 80 or otherwise fixed in position so as to be rotationally fixed but able to move axially, and that the invention is not

  not intended to be so limited.

  The rocker arm 50 is provided with a lock which cooperates with a rotary element 90 engaged with the shaft 32 to prevent the shaft 32 from being driven in rotation when the rocker arm 50 is in the locked position. In the preferred embodiment, the rotating element 90 comprises a disc-shaped locking plate 92 engaged with the shaft 32 at an opening 93 so as to rotate with the shaft 32 when the handle 30 is

driven in rotation.

  The magnetized arm 51 is biased towards the locking plate 92, in the preferred embodiment, by a magnetic mass 96 such as a steel pin or the like housed in the locking plate 92 near the position of the magnet 54 when the mechanism 10 is in the rest position shown in Figures 5 and 8. A magnetic coin 1 deposited in the coin housing 42 will overcome the force of attraction of the magnet 54 on the pin 96 and bring the rocker arm 50 has to move, so that the magnetized arm 51 will move towards coin 1 in coin holder 42. 10 In order to be sure that rocker arm 50 will move under the effect of the force d magnetic attraction exerted by the magnet 54 on a magnetic coin 1, the magnetic pin 96 is made significantly weaker than the magnetic element of a magnetic coin. Preferably, the pin 96 is placed in the locking plate 92 while being offset from the axis of the magnet 54, for example slightly below and laterally off-center as shown in FIG. 10, so that the magnet 54 does not will never approach too close to the magnetic pin 96. A biasing force making it possible to bring the rocker arm 50 to the locked position may alternatively be provided by an elastic element, such as a spring, a block or a rubber filament, etc. (not shown), provided that the stressing force of this element is less than the force of attraction exerted by the magnet 54 on the magnetic coin I placed in the housing of

coins 42.

  We will see that the back plate 80, being disposed between the coin housing 42 and the magnet 54, must be made of a non-magnetic material so as not to interfere with the magnetic attraction of the magnet 54 on a magnetic coin 1. In the preferred embodiment, all of the elements of the mechanism 10 (except the magnet 54 and the magnetic pin 96) are cast or otherwise formed from aluminum or zinc of so as not to be magnetic. This is particularly important for those of the elements in the vicinity of

the magnet 54.

  As seen above, the rotary element 90 cooperates with a latch protruding from the rocker arm 50 to stop the rotation of the mechanism 10 when the rocker arm 50 is in the locked position. However, the locked position of the rocker arm 50 differs depending on whether the mechanism 10 is intended to accept a magnetic coin or a coin.

non-magnetic currency.

  Magnetic Coin Embodiment A preferred form of the magnetic coin embodiment is illustrated in Figures 4 to 6. The magnetic arm 51 of the rocker arm 50 is provided with a latch 55 which projects toward the locking plate 92. The locking plate 92 has an opening or housing 94, clearly visible in Figure 10, in which engages the lock 55

  when the mechanism 10 is in the rest position.

  In use, the mechanism 10 begins in the rest position shown in Figures 2 and 5, the coin housing 42 being aligned

  with the coin opening 24 of the cover plate 20.

  In this position, the magnet 54 is attracted towards the magnetic pin 96 housed in the locking plate 92, so that the magnetized arm 51 is pulled towards the locking plate 92 and the rocker arm 50 is thus biased towards the locked position, the latch 55 engaging in the housing 94 of the latch plate 92, as shown in Figure 5. Because the rocker arm 50 is rotationally fixed relative to the fixed frame, the latch plate 92 is prevented from also rotating as long as the latch 55 remains engaged in the housing 94. Since the locking plate 92 is engaged in rotation with the shaft 32, the shaft 32 is likewise prevented from rotating and the

  handle 40 cannot be made to rotate.

  When a magnetic coin 1 of the intended denomination is deposited through the coin opening 24, it is placed in the coin holder 42 of the coin transporter 40, as shown in FIG. 5 The coin 1 now being very close to the magnet 54, the force of attraction of the magnet 54 on the magnetic pin 96 is overcome by the force of attraction of the magnet 54 on the magnetic coin 1, the latter having a significantly larger magnetic element. The magnetized arm 51 thus pivots towards the coin housing 42, removing the latch 55 from the housing 94 and allowing the locking plate 92 to rotate, as shown in Figure 6. This releases the shaft 32 and allows the handle 30 to be rotated to the point of the rotation cycle where the measuring devices 34, 70 can measure the coin 1 to ensure that it is of the correct diameter and thickness. If the coin 1 is of the intended denomination, the measuring cleats 34, 70 will allow the mechanism

  to be able to run throughout the entire distribution cycle.

  When the handle 30 is turned, the toothed wheel 64 rotates the plate 6 so that an opening of the plate 6 comes into alignment with the distribution chute 8 and delivers a product to the user. The coin 1 is typically released from the mechanism 10 up to the midpoint of the rotation cycle of the mechanism 10, so that the locking plate 92 returns to the rest position only if the magnetic pin 96 is present for influence the magnet 54, the rocker arm 50 being pulled back towards the locked position and, when the housing 94 returns in alignment with the latch 55, the latch 55 re-engages the recess 94 under the effect of force

  of attraction of the magnet 54 on the magnetic pin 96.

  If a non-magnetic coin or counterfeit coin is deposited in the coin holder 42, the rocker arm 50 remains in the locked position with the latch 55 engaged in the holder 94, and the mechanism 10 cannot be brought to turn. It can be seen that, in the magnetic coin embodiment, the mechanism 10 will not work if a non-magnetic coin or counterfeit coin is deposited in the coin holder 42, regardless of

  the size of the coin or counterfeit coin.

  Embodiment with Non-Magnetic Coins A preferred form of the embodiment with non-magnetic coins is illustrated in Figures 7 to 9. In this embodiment, the rocker arm 50 is provided with an opposite arm 53 which extends from the side of the pivot axis (projections 57) opposite the magnetized arm 51. The opposite arm 53 need not be diametrically opposed to the magnetized arm 51, provided that the opposite arm 53 is placed on the opposite side of the pivoting axis of the rocker arm 50 so that, when the magnetized arm 51 moves in an axial direction, the opposite arm 53 moves in the other axial direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the opposite arm 53 of the rocker arm 50 is oriented at an oblique angle away from the coin ejection opening 89 provided in the back plate 80, so as not to interfere

  with the coins coming out of the mechanism 10.

  In the embodiment with non-magnetic coins, the housing or the opening 94 (FIG. 10) provided in the locking plate 92 is not used. The lock 55 provided on the magnetized arm 51 is ground or filed before the mechanism 10 is assembled, leaving only a lock 56 remaining on the opposite arm 53 as shown in Figures 7 and 12b. The lock 56 protrudes towards the locking plate 92, and the locking plate 92 has an opening or a housing 95, clearly visible in FIG. 10, with which the lock 56 is aligned when the mechanism 10

is in the rest position.

  To provide additional resistance to the rotation of the rocker arm 50 in the magnetic coin embodiment, a rib 87 protrudes from the back plate 80 along the lower edge of the opposite arm 53, as shown in Figure 7. The rib 87 may have a boss 87a so that the rocker arm 50 cannot be pinched between the rib 87 and the locking plate 92 due to the application of a force on the handle 30. The rib 87 and the boss 87a thus create a stop surface against which the opposite arm 53 of the rocker arm 50 rests if the handle is caused to rotate when the opposite arm 53 is in the locked position. In operation, the mechanism 10 begins in the rest position shown in Figures 2 and 8, the coin housing 42 being aligned with the coin opening 24 provided in the cover plate 20. In this position, I the magnet 54 is attracted towards the magnetic pin 96 housed in the locking plate 92, so that the magnetized arm 51 is pulled towards the locking plate 92, which has the effect of pulling the opposite arm 53 away from it the locking plate 92 and the rocker arm 50 is thus urged towards the unlocked position, the latch 56 being removed from the housing 95 of the locking plate 92, as shown in FIG. 8. The handle 30 is then free to turn towards the point of the rotation cycle where the measuring devices 34, 70 measure a coin which

has been filed.

  1'7 If a non-magnetic coin 1 of the intended denomination is deposited through the coin opening 24 in the coin compartment 42, the coin 1 has no influence on the magnetized arm 51, which thus remains attracted towards the magnetic pin 96, and the mechanism 10 can therefore be caused to rotate beyond the measuring devices 34, 70 and over the entire distribution cycle of the mechanism, in the same way as the one described above. When the magnetic pin 96 returns to the rest position, it attracts the magnet 54 and maintains the rocker arm

in the unlocked position.

  If a coin or a fake magnetic coin is deposited in the coin holder 42, the force of attraction of the magnet 54 on the magnetic pin 96 is overcome by the force of attraction of the magnet 54 on the coin or the counterfeit magnetic coin. The magnetized arm 51 thus pivots towards the coin housing 42, which has the effect of pulling the opposite arm 53 toward the locking plate 92, by engaging the latch 56 in the opening or housing 95 and stopping the rotation of the locking plate 92, as shown in Figure 9. The locking plate 92 is prevented from rotating as long as the rocker arm 50 remains in the locked position, the latch 56 being engaged in the opening or housing 95, and l the shaft 32 is thus prevented from rotating so that the handle 30 cannot be caused to rotate. It can be seen that, in the non-magnetic coin embodiment, the mechanism 10 will not work if a coin or counterfeit magnetic coin is deposited in the coin housing 42, regardless of the

  size of the coin or counterfeit coin.

  In the preferred embodiments of the invention, the coin mechanism 10 is designed to take into account both the magnetic coin embodiment and the non-magnetic coin embodiment. The locking plate 92 has both the housings 94 and 95. Similarly, both the magnetized arm 51 has a latch 55 and the opposite arm 53 has a latch 56. However, in service, one of the latch 55 or 56 must be removed before the rocker arm 50 is assembled to form the coin mechanism 10. If the mechanism is intended to accept magnetic coins, the latch 56 of the opposite arm 53 is ground or filed so that the rocker arm 50 has the configuration shown in Figure 12a when assembled in the mechanism 10. If the mechanism 10 is designed to accept non-magnetic coins, it is the latch 55 of the magnetized arm 51 which is then ground or filed so that the rocker arm 50 has the configuration

  shown in Figure 12b when assembled in mechanism 10.

  It will be noted that, in the preferred embodiments, the arms 51, 53 have slightly different lengths, and that the latches 55, 56 are thus placed at different radial positions. This allows the housings 94, 95 to be placed at different radial positions on the locking plate 92, which ensures that the latch 55 cannot inadvertently engage the housing 95 of the coin-operated embodiment. magnetic coins and that, conversely, the latch 56 cannot inadvertently engage in the housing 94 of the non-magnetic coin embodiment. This is desirable because, once the coin conveyor 40 is rotated past the rest position, so that both a magnetic coin and the magnetic pin 96 are too far from the magnet 54 to magnetically influence the rocker arm 50, the rocker arm 50 is neither stressed nor towards the

  locked position or to the unlocked position and can tilt freely.

  The housings 94 and 95 are therefore not aligned radially so as to ensure that each does not interfere with the operation of the mechanism 10 in the embodiment in which only the other housing

94 or 95 should be used.

  In preferred embodiments, it may be desirable to form the housings 94, 95 of the locking plate 92 so that they are longer than the width of the respective latches 55, 56. This will allow some 'free play' in the handle 30, which can be beneficial for maintaining a uniform distribution of the products in the storage container 5 for objects from the automatic dispenser 2. Due to the positioning of the ratchet teeth 41, the rest position is the only one point in the cycle of rotation at which the mechanism 10 can be made to rotate in the opposite direction (anticlockwise in the illustrated embodiment) and even a slight rotation in the opposite direction helps to sufficiently disperse the products, around the storage container 5 of the objects, to prevent

local accumulation.

  In the preferred embodiments above, the rotating element 90 is in the form of a locking plate 92, which avoids potential problems such as structural weakness and poor axial alignment between the latches 55, 56 and the rotating element 90. However, it will be noted that the rotating element 90 could have any structure which rotates with the shaft 32 and cooperates with the latch 55 or 56 to stop the rotation of the mechanism 10, and for example a bar or rigid finger o10 98 as shown in Figures 14 and 15 o, in the locked position,

  the latch 55 or 56 projects in the path of rotation of the bar 98.

  It will also be seen that, in the embodiment with magnetic coins, the opposite arm 53 of the rocker arm 50 is not necessary because the magnetized arm 51 of the rocker arm 50 carries both the magnet 54 and the latch 55 which engages in the locking plate 92 to prevent the mechanism 10 from rotating. It is however convenient to provide the opposite arm 53 in this embodiment, so that a unique configuration of the rocker arm 50 can be used for both the magnetic coin embodiment and the coin embodiment non-magnetic coins. Likewise, the opposite arm 53 can, at some point, act as a counterweight, which can make the movement of the rocker arm 50 somewhat more uniform. However, the magnetic coin embodiment will work very well without the opposite arm 53, as in the

  embodiment illustrated in Figure 14.

  It can thus be seen that, in the magnetic coin embodiment according to the invention, the coin mechanism 10 will not operate in response to non-magnetic coins and counterfeit coins. This dramatically narrows the range of coins and counterfeit coins which will be accepted by the coin mechanism 10, and eliminates the possibility of accepting counterfeit cardboard and plastic coins. Likewise, in the non-magnetic coin embodiment according to the invention, the coin mechanism 10 will only operate in response to coins and counterfeit magnetic coins, which narrows the range considerably coins and counterfeits which will be accepted by the coin mechanism 10, and eliminates the possibility of accepting magnetic coins from countries

  foreigners, as well as steel washers.

  The preferred embodiments of the invention thus create a security characteristic which, independently of the existing measurement devices, reduces the number of coins and counterfeits that the coin mechanism 10 will accept, either by rejecting coins and counterfeit magnetic coins, either by rejecting coins and counterfeit non-magnetic coins, depending on whether the coin provided 1 is a magnetic coin or a non-magnetic coin. It is also desirable to provide other additional security features such as measuring devices in order to further discriminate between the intended coin 1 and other coins or counterfeit coins. However, by reducing the number of coins and counterfeits that the coin mechanism 10 will accept, and particularly when used in conjunction with other security features such as traditional type devices for measuring the diameter and thickness, the invention creates a means of significantly reducing the theft of products from a vending machine 2 or from another coin-operated device, such as being delivered from fraudulently the ticket of a parking meter. The invention is however not limited to the embodiments shown and described in detail in the case of various modifications.

  made without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (17)

CLAIMS:   1. A coin mechanism characterized in that it is made up of: a fixed frame comprising a cover plate having an opening for coins, a handle fixed to a shaft extending through the cover plate, a coin transporter comprising a coin receiving part, rotated with the shaft so that the coin receiving part is substantially aligned with the coin opening when the coin conveyor coins is in a rest position, a rotating element spaced from the coin conveyor and engaged in rotation therewith, a movable rocker arm comprising a magnetized arm and a latch, mounted between the coin conveyor and the rotating element in a fixed relation in rotation relative to the fixed frame, the rocker arm being movable between a locked position in which the worm rou falls into the rotation path of the rotating element to substantially prevent rotation of the rotating element, and an unlocked position in which the latch is removed from the rotating path of the rotating element to allow rotation of the rotating element, the magnetized arm of the rocker arm being biased towards the rotating element by a biasing force when the coin transporter is in the rest position, so that when a coin or a magnetic token is deposited in the coin receiving part, an attractive force of the magnetized arm on the coin or token is sufficient to overcome the biasing force and pull the magnetized arm towards the coin or token. causing the lock either to fall in the rotation path of the rotating member or to withdraw from the rotation path of the rotating element.   2. Mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that the fixed frame comprises a rear plate mounted relative to the cover plate   between the coin transporter and the rocker arm.   3. Mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that the rocker arm is maintained in a fixed relation in rotation relative to the fixed frame by one or more pins projecting from the rear plate and abutting against the rocker.   4. Mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that the   rocker arm is mounted around the shaft.   5. Mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that the rocker arm includes a pivot axis and moves between the locked position and the unlocked position by tilting around the pivot axis. 6. Mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that the rotating element comprises a disc having an opening or a housing in which the lock engages to lock the rotating element and prevent it from turning. 7. Mechanism according to claim 6, in which the lock extends to   from an outer end of the rocker arm.   8. Mechanism according to claim 7, in which the housing is larger than the latch, allowing a slight rotation of the mechanism when   the rocker arm is in the locked position.   9. Mechanism according to claim 1, in which the magnetized arm is biased towards the rotating element by a magnetic mass housed in the rotating element, a magnetic mass which is sufficiently weak that the force of attraction exerted by the magnetized arm on the magnetic mass is less than the force of attraction exerted by the magnetized arm on a piece of change or a magnetic token.   10. Mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that the part for receiving coins comprises a housing for coins   currency provided in the coin transporter.   11. Mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that the latch projects from the magnetized arm and falls in the path of rotation of the element   rotating when the magnetized arm is biased towards the rotating element.   12. Mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that the latch projects from an opposite arm disposed on the opposite side of a pivot axis relative to the magnetized arm and falls in the path of rotation of the rotating element the magnetized arm is pulled toward the coin or token. 13. Mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that the rocker arm comprises a pivot axis, a magnetized arm having a latch disposed on one side of the pivot axis and an opposite arm having a latch disposed on the opposite side of the 'pivot axis, one of the locks being removed from the rocker before assembling the rocker in the mechanism. 14. Apparatus for dispensing products and having a   coin mechanism as defined in one of claims 1 to   13. 15. A coin mechanism characterized in that it comprises: a fixed frame comprising a cover plate having an opening for coins, a handle fixed to a shaft extending through the cover plate, a coin conveyor comprising a coin receiving portion, rotated with the shaft so that the coin receiving portion is substantially aligned with the coin opening when the coin conveyor coins is in a rest position, a rotating element spaced from the coin conveyor and engaged in rotation therewith, comprising a disc having an opening or a housing in which a lock engages in order to lock the rotating element preventing it from rotating, a movable rocker arm comprising a magnetized arm with a lock, mounted between the coin conveyor and the rotating member in a fixed rotational relation to the fixed frame, the rocker arm being movable between a locked position in which the latch falls in the rotation path of the rotating member in order to substantially prevent the rotation of the rotating element, and an unlocked position in which the latch is removed from the rotation path of the rotating element to allow rotation of the rotating element, the magnetized arm of the rocker arm being biased toward the rotating element by a biasing force when the coin conveyor is in the rest position, so that when a coin or magnetic token is deposited in the coin receiving portion, a force of attraction of the magnetized arm on the coin or token is sufficient to overcome the biasing force and pull the magnetized arm toward the coin or token by bringing the lock to withdraw from the path of rotation of the rotating element.   16. Mechanism according to claim 15 characterized in that the rocker arm is provided with a pivot axis and an opposite arm disposed on the   opposite side of the pivot axis with respect to the magnetized arm.   17. Mechanism according to claim 15 in which the magnetized arm is biased towards the rotating element by a magnetic mass housed in the rotating element, this magnetic mass being sufficiently weak that the force of attraction exerted by the magnetized arm on the evening magnetic mass lower than the force of attraction exerted by the magnetized arm on a coin or magnetic token.   18. Apparatus for dispensing products and having a mechanism for   coins as defined in one of claims 15 to 17.   19. Coin mechanism characterized in that it comprises a fixed frame comprising a cover plate having an opening for coins, a handle fixed to a shaft extending through the cover plate, a coin conveyor comprising a coin receiving part, rotated with the shaft so that the coin receiving part is substantially aligned with the coin opening when the coin conveyor located in a rest position, a rotating element spaced from the coin conveyor and engaged in rotation with it, comprising a disc having an opening or a housing in which a lock engages to lock the rotating element in l preventing from turning, a movable rocker arm comprising a magnetized arm having a pivot axis and an opposite arm disposed on the op side posed of the pivot axis relative to the magnetized arm, mounted between the coin conveyor and the rotating element in a fixed relation in rotation relative to the fixed frame, the rocker arm being movable between a locked position in which the lock falls into the rotation path of the rotating element to substantially prevent rotation of the rotating element, and an unlocked position in which the latch is removed from the rotating path of the rotating element to allow rotation of the rotating element, the magnetized arm of the rocker arm being biased towards the rotating element by a biasing force when the coin conveyor is in the rest position, so that when a coin or a magnetic token is deposited in the coin receiving part, a force of attraction of the magnetized arm on the coin or the token is sufficient to surmo nter the biasing force and pull the magnetized arm towards the coin or token, causing the lock to fall in the path of rotation of the rotating element.   20. Mechanism according to claim 19, in which the magnetized arm is biased towards the rotating element by a magnetic mass housed in the rotating element, this magnetic mass being sufficiently weak that the force of attraction exerted by the magnetized arm on the magnetic mass is less than the force of attraction exerted by the magnetized arm on a coin or magnetic token.   21. Apparatus for dispensing products and having a mechanism for   magnetic parts as defined in one of claims 17 to 20.