JP2023136779A - Coin image sensor, coin identification device, coin processing apparatus, and coin image capturing method - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a coin image sensor which improves the contrast of a coin's outer edge in a coin image and reduces the sensor's size to cut costs.SOLUTION: A coin image sensor 1a captures an image of a coin C and comprises: a light source unit 11 which emits light to a surface of the coin C; an optical path changing unit 12 which changes optical paths of light beams L2 going to parts other than the surface of the coin, out of light beams L1 and L2 emitted from the light source unit 11 to emit light to the coin from the side of the coin; and a light receiving unit 13 which receives reflected light from the coin.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to a coin image sensor, a coin identification device, a coin processing device, and a coin image acquisition method.

A coin image is obtained by emitting light from a light source to the coin and receiving the reflected light, and the obtained image and a template, which is a reference image of a genuine coin stored in advance in the control unit in the processing machine, are Coins are identified by comparison.

As a method of acquiring an image of an object, a line sensor of the type used in scanners, copy machines, faxes, etc., in which sensors are arranged in a line, is used to capture the coin image in a band shape, and the band images are arranged to form an entire image of the coin. There are known ways to do this.
Since the use of line sensors can be expected to reduce device costs, the use of line sensors as sensors for capturing images of coins is being considered.

Patent Document 1 discloses a coin discrimination device in which a plurality of light sources are arranged around a line sensor sensor and a SELFOC lens, and the peripheral edge of a coin is uniformly irradiated with light.

Patent No. 3609285

The configuration described in Patent Document 1 requires a large number of light sources to uniformly irradiate the peripheral edge of the coin with light, resulting in an increase in the size of the device and high costs.

Therefore, an attempt was made to simplify the configuration of the device by irradiating the surface of the coin with a linear light beam from the light source. With this method, it was possible to irradiate the surface of the coin with light and acquire an image using a line sensor with a simple structure. However, a problem has arisen in that the image of the outer periphery of the coin in the obtained coin image becomes blurred, or in other words, the contrast of the outer periphery of the coin in the coin image is insufficient.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned current situation, and provides a coin image sensor and coin identification that can improve the contrast of the outer periphery of a coin in a coin image and reduce the cost by downsizing the coin image sensor. The object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus, a coin processing apparatus, and a coin image acquisition method.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the objectives, (1) the coin image sensor of the present disclosure is a coin image sensor that collects an image of a coin, and includes a light source unit that irradiates the surface of the coin with light; , an optical path changing unit that changes the optical path of the light directed toward a direction other than the surface of the coin, out of the light irradiated from the light source unit, and irradiates the coin from the side of the coin; and reflection from the coin. A light receiving section that receives light.

(2) The coin image sensor according to (1) above may include a plurality of the optical path changing sections.

(3) In the coin image sensor according to (1) or (2) above, the optical path changing surface of the optical path changing section may have a flat or curved surface.

(4) In the coin image sensor according to any one of (1) to (3) above, the optical path changing section may be a reflective member that reflects incident light.

(5) In the coin image sensor according to any one of (1) to (4) above, the optical path changing section may be a refraction member that refracts incident light.

(6) In the coin image sensor according to any one of (1) to (5) above, the light source unit may irradiate a linear light beam onto the surface of the coin.

(7) In the coin image sensor according to (6) above, the light source section may include a light emitting element and a rod-shaped light guide.

(8) In the coin image sensor according to (6) above, the light source section may be formed by arranging a plurality of light emitting elements in a line.

(9) In the coin image sensor according to any one of (6) to (8) above, the shape of the optical path changing portion may be inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the linear light beam. .

(10) In the coin image sensor according to any one of (1) to (9) above, the light receiving section may be a line sensor in which a plurality of light receiving elements are arranged in a line.

(11) The coin image sensor according to any one of (1) to (10) above includes a box-shaped casing with one side open, in which the light source section and the light receiving section are installed, and the casing. and a plate-shaped transparent part provided in the opening of the coin, and the optical path changing part may be arranged on a surface of the transparent part opposite to a surface with which the coin comes into contact.

(12) The coin image sensor according to any one of (1) to (11) above includes a box-shaped casing with one side open, in which the light source section and the light receiving section are installed, and the casing. further comprising a plate-like transparent part provided in an opening of the transparent part, the light source part irradiates a linear light beam toward the transparent part, and a light component in a central part of the linear light beam is transmitted to the transparent part. The optical path of the light component that is transmitted through the part and irradiated onto the main surface of the coin and located at at least one end of the linear light beam is changed by the optical path changing part and is directed from the side of the coin to the coin. may be irradiated.

(13) The coin identification device of the present disclosure includes the coin image sensor according to any one of (1) to (12) above, and an identification unit that performs coin identification processing using the coin image collected by the coin image sensor. Equipped with.

(14) The coin identification device according to (13) above includes a transport section that transports the coin along a transport direction, and the shape of the optical path changing section provided in the coin image sensor is different from the transport direction. The shape may be inclined.

(15) A coin processing device of the present disclosure includes the coin identification device according to (13) or (14) above.

(16) The coin image collection method of the present disclosure is a coin image collection method for collecting an image of a coin, in which light is irradiated from a light source unit to an area including the main surface of the coin, and in an optical path changing unit, Among the light irradiated from the light source section, the optical path of the light directed toward a region other than the main surface of the coin is changed, the light is irradiated onto the coin from the side of the coin, and the light is reflected from the coin at the light receiving section. Receive light.

In the coin image acquisition method described in (16) above, a plurality of optical path changing units may be used.
Further, the optical path changing surface included in the optical path changing section may have a flat surface or a curved surface.
Further, the optical path changing section may be a reflecting member that reflects the incident light.
Further, the optical path changing section may be a refraction member that refracts the incident light.

In the coin image acquisition method described in (16) above, the light source unit may irradiate the surface of the coin with a linear light beam.
Further, the light source section may include a light emitting element and a rod-shaped light guide.
Further, the light source section may be formed by arranging a plurality of light emitting elements in a line.
Further, the shape of the optical path changing portion may be inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the linear light beam.
Further, the light receiving section may be a line sensor in which a plurality of light receiving elements are arranged in a line.

In the coin image collection method described in (16) above, a box-shaped casing with one side open, in which a light source section and a light receiving section are installed, and a plate-shaped transparent section provided in the opening of the casing. A coin image sensor further comprising: and the optical path changing section may be arranged on the surface of the transparent section opposite to the surface with which the coin comes into contact.

In the coin image collection method described in (16) above, a box-shaped casing with one side open, in which a light source section and a light receiving section are installed, and a plate-shaped transparent section provided in the opening of the casing. A coin image sensor may be used which further comprises: a light source unit emits a linear beam of light toward the transparent portion, and a central light component of the linear beam is transmitted through the transparent portion to detect the coin. The coin may be irradiated from the side of the coin by changing the optical path of the light component that is irradiated onto the surface and located at at least one end of the linear light beam by an optical path changing section.

According to the present disclosure, a coin image sensor, a coin identification device, a coin processing device, and a coin image acquisition device are capable of improving the contrast of the outer periphery of a coin in a coin image and reducing the size and cost of the coin image sensor. method can be provided.

FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of the configuration of a coin image sensor according to this embodiment. FIGS. 2(a) and 2(b) are cross-sectional views schematically showing an example of a cross section of a coin including the side surface of the coin and its surroundings, for explaining an example of the position of the side surface and edge portion of the coin. be. FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b) are photographs showing differences in coin images depending on whether or not light is irradiated from the side of the coin. FIG. 4 is a top view schematically showing an example of the arrangement of the optical path changing section. FIG. 5 is a top view schematically showing another example of the arrangement of the optical path changing section. FIG. 6 is a top view schematically showing another example of the arrangement of the optical path changing section. FIG. 7(a) is a perspective view schematically showing a prism that is a reflective member as an example of an optical path changing section, and FIG. 7(b) is a side view of the prism shown in FIG. 7(a). FIG. 8(a) is a perspective view schematically showing a prism that is a reflecting member and a refractive member as an example of an optical path changing section, and FIG. 8(b) is a side view of the prism shown in FIG. 8(a). 8(c) is a top view schematically showing an example of the position where the optical path changing unit shown in FIGS. 8(a) and 8(b) is arranged on the coin image sensor 1e. 9(a) is a perspective view schematically showing a diffraction grating that is a refractive member as an example of an optical path changing section, and FIG. 9(b) is a side view of the diffraction grating shown in FIG. 9(a). , FIG. 9(c) is a top view schematically showing an example of the position where the optical path changing unit shown in FIGS. 9(a) and 9(b) is arranged on the coin image sensor 1f. FIG. 10(a) is a perspective view schematically showing a prism whose optical path changing surface is a reflective member having a curved surface as an example of the optical path changing section. 1g is a top view schematically showing an example of a position where it is placed. FIG. FIG. 11 is a perspective view schematically showing an example of a coin image sensor including a fan-shaped light guide. FIG. 12 is a perspective view schematically showing an example of a coin image sensor including a plurality of light emitting elements. FIG. 13 is a top view schematically showing an example of a coin image sensor. FIG. 14 is a sectional view along YZ plane of the coin image sensor shown in FIG. 13. FIG. 15(a) is a top view schematically showing an example of a transparent part provided with an optical path changing part, and FIG. 15(b) is a sectional view taken along line BB of the transparent part shown in FIG. 15(a). It is. FIG. 16 is a perspective view schematically showing an example of a coin image sensor. FIG. 17 is a perspective exploded schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the coin image sensor shown in FIG. 16. FIG. 18 is a perspective view schematically showing an example of a coin identification device. FIG. 19 is a block diagram schematically showing an example of the configuration of a coin identification device. FIG. 20 is a perspective view schematically showing an example of a coin processing device. FIG. 21 is a top view schematically showing an example of a coin image sensor including a displacement sensor. FIG. 22 is a top view schematically showing an example of measuring the amount of movement of a coin by a displacement sensor. FIG. 23 is a top view schematically showing another example of measuring the amount of movement of a coin by a displacement sensor. FIGS. 24(a) and 24(b) are top views schematically showing an example of measurement of the amount of movement of a coin over time by a displacement sensor. FIGS. 25(a) and 25(b) are top views schematically showing another example of measuring the amount of movement of a coin by a displacement sensor over time.

Embodiments of a coin image sensor, a coin identification device, a coin processing device, and a coin image acquisition method according to the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following, the present disclosure will be explained by taking as examples a coin image sensor, a coin identification device, a coin processing device, and a coin image acquisition method that target coins as money. In addition to coins used in games, it also includes coins used in gaming machines. Note that the following description is an example of a coin image sensor, a coin identification device, a coin processing device, and a coin image collection method.

In the following description, the same reference numerals are appropriately used for components having the same or similar functions in different embodiments and drawings, and repeated explanations of the components are omitted as appropriate. Further, in the drawings explaining the structure, mutually orthogonal XYZ coordinate systems are appropriately shown.

In addition, in this specification, the front side of a coin means either the front side (omotemen) or the back side (uramen) of the coin. The surface of a coin does not include the sides of the coin.
Further, the front surface of the coin is the surface facing the light receiving section.

(Embodiment 1)
The configuration of the coin image sensor according to this embodiment will be explained using FIG. 1.
FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of the configuration of a coin image sensor according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the coin image sensor 1a according to the present embodiment includes a light source unit 11 that irradiates light onto the surface of a coin C, and a light receiver that receives reflected light that is irradiated from the light source unit 11 and reflected by the coin C. 13.
The coin image sensor can be used, for example, by being installed in a coin processing device that processes coins C. The coin C to be identified may be conveyed in the X direction within the XY plane.

Light L1 directed toward the surface of the coin C and light L2 directed toward a surface other than the surface of the coin C are emitted from the light source section 11. The direction of the light L1 and the direction of the light L2 immediately after being emitted from the light source section 11 are substantially parallel. The direction of the light L2 emitted from the light source section 11 and before its optical path is changed by the optical path changing section is not completely different from the direction of the light L1.
The light L1 directed toward the surface of the coin C is irradiated onto the surface of the coin C and is reflected by the surface of the coin C. The light L1 is a linear light beam, and the portion of the coin C that is irradiated with the light L1 is indicated by reference numeral R1.
The optical path of the light L2 directed toward other than the surface of the coin C is changed by the optical path changing unit 12, and the coin C is irradiated with light from the side of the coin C. The portion of the coin C that is irradiated with the light L2 is indicated by reference numeral R2.
In this specification, "the coin is irradiated with light from the side" means that light is irradiated onto the side surface of the coin and/or the peripheral portion of the coin including the edge portion. Moreover, "from the side" can also be said to be "from the side (Y direction) with respect to the coin conveyance direction (X direction in FIG. 1) on the conveyance plane (XY plane in FIG. 1)."
Further, irradiation from the side means irradiation from at least one of one side (+Y direction) and the other side (-Y direction) of the coin.

FIGS. 2(a) and 2(b) are cross-sectional views schematically showing an example of a cross section of a coin including the side surface of the coin and its surroundings, for explaining an example of the position of the side surface and edge portion of the coin. be.
2(a) and 2(b) show the front surface Cf of the coin, the back surface Cb of the coin, the side surface Cs of the coin, and the edge portion Ce of the coin.
The edge portion Ce of the coin is an area including the intersection of the front surface Cf of the coin, the back surface Cb of the coin, and the side surface Cs of the coin.
FIG. 2A shows an example of an edge portion Ce having an angular shape.
FIG. 2(b) shows an example of a rounded edge portion Ce.

FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b) are photographs showing differences in coin images depending on whether or not light is irradiated from the side of the coin.
FIG. 3(a) is a coin image obtained by irradiating light from the right side of the coin. FIG. 3(b) is a coin image obtained without irradiating the coin with light from the side.
In FIG. 3A, the outer periphery of the coin is clearly seen in white on the right side of the coin image, and the contrast is high. On the other hand, in FIG. 3(b), it can be seen that the outer periphery of the coin is blurred on the right side of the coin image, and the contrast is low.

In this way, when the optical path of the light directed toward other than the surface of the coin is changed by the optical path changing section, and the coin is irradiated with light from the side of the coin, the light irradiated from the light source section to the periphery of the coin is changed. can increase the amount of light. Therefore, the contrast of the outer periphery of the coin in the coin image is improved. In addition, there is no need to increase the number of light sources, and the effect can be achieved simply by providing an optical path changing section for a portion of the light emitted from the light source section that irradiates the surface of the coin, so it is possible to achieve this effect without increasing the size of the device. Does not require high costs.

In addition, the light directed toward areas other than the surface of the coin is light that is irradiated from the light source but does not irradiate the coin, so it can be said that the light is not used in conventional coin image sensors and is wasted light. . Since this light is used to illuminate the coin from the side, there is no need to increase the amount of light or increase the number of light sources, resulting in excellent efficiency and cost.

Furthermore, by irradiating the coin with light from the side of the coin, the contrast of the outer periphery of the coin in the coin image is improved. When the contrast of the outer periphery of the coin in the coin image is improved, the diameter of the coin can be measured by measuring the portion where the contrast has been improved, so the accuracy of measuring the diameter of the coin can be improved.

The explanation will be given below with reference to FIG. 1 again.
Light L1 directed toward the surface of the coin C and light L2 directed toward a surface other than the surface of the coin C are emitted from the light source section 11. The light source section 11 may irradiate the surface of the coin with a linear light beam. When the light source unit 11 irradiates the surface of the coin C with a linear light beam, the length of the linear light beam (the length in the Y direction in FIG. 1) may be larger than the diameter of the coin C. If the length of the linear light beam irradiated from the light source section 11 is larger than the diameter of the coin C, when the center of the coin reaches the detection position of the light receiving section, the portion of the light corresponding to the diameter of the coin C will be emitted from the coin. The light L1 is directed toward the surface of the coin C, and the portion of the light protruding from the portion corresponding to the diameter of the coin C becomes the light L2 directed toward other than the surface of the coin C. By changing the optical path of the light L2 directed toward other than the surface of the coin C by the optical path changing unit 12, the coin C is irradiated with light from the side of the coin C, and the light is irradiated from the light source unit to the peripheral part of the coin. can increase the amount of light.

The light source section 11 may include a light emitting element 116 and a rod-shaped light guide 115. The rod-shaped light guide 115 shown in FIG. 1 is a rod-shaped (linear) light guide.
The light emitting element 116 may be provided to face two end surfaces of the light guide 115. Further, the light emitting element 116 may be arranged only on one of the two end surfaces of the light guide 115.

The light guide may be a transparent rod-shaped optical member, and the rod-shaped light guide guides the light from the light emitting element and directs the rod-shaped light toward the coin that is the irradiation target. It irradiates the light emitted from the light emitting element into a rod shape.

As the light emitting element, a light emitting element such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode) can be used. By using a plurality of LEDs capable of emitting light in different wavelength ranges as light emitting elements, it is possible to emit light in different wavelength ranges (for example, ultraviolet light, red light, green light, blue light, and infrared light). It may be .

As the light receiving section 13, a line sensor in which a plurality of light receiving elements are arranged in a line may be used. That is, the light receiving section 13 may include a plurality of light receiving elements (light receiving pixels) arranged in a line in the Y direction, and may constitute a linear image sensor.

Next, an example of the arrangement of the optical path changing section will be described.
The coin image sensor may include a plurality of optical path changing sections.
Moreover, the light source part may irradiate a linear light beam onto the surface of the coin, and the shape of the optical path changing part may be inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the linear light beam.
In the example of the arrangement of the optical path changing section shown in FIGS. 4, 5, and 6 below, the optical path changing section is a reflecting member that reflects the light incident on the optical path changing section.

FIG. 4 is a top view schematically showing an example of the arrangement of the optical path changing section.
FIG. 4 shows a coin image sensor 1b including two light guides as light sources.
The coin image sensor 1b includes two optical path changing sections (optical path changing sections 12a and 12c), and both the optical path changing section 12a and the optical path changing section 12c are reflective members.

The optical path changing section 12a changes the optical path of the light emitted from the light source section 11a, and causes the coin C to be irradiated with light from one side of the coin C.
The optical path changing section 12c also changes the optical path of the light emitted from the light source section 11a, and causes the coin C to be irradiated with light from the other side of the coin C.
The optical path changing section 12a and the optical path changing section 12c are inclined in different directions (opposite directions) with respect to the longitudinal direction of the linear light beam. The longitudinal direction of the linear light ray corresponds to the longitudinal direction of the region indicated by region R2 in FIG.
By providing two such optical path changing sections, the coin C can be irradiated with light from both sides.
The positional relationship between the light source section and the optical path changing section is the same as that of the coin image sensor 1a shown in FIG.

The optical path of the light emitted from the light source section 11b is not changed by the optical path changing section. Only the light directed toward the surface of the coin is used as the light emitted from the light source section 11b.
Further, in the configuration of the coin image sensor shown in FIG. 4, the light source section may be only the light source section 11a.

FIG. 5 is a top view schematically showing another example of the arrangement of the optical path changing section.
FIG. 5 shows a coin image sensor 1c that includes two light guides as light sources.
The coin image sensor 1c includes two optical path changing sections (optical path changing sections 12a and 12b), and both the optical path changing section 12a and the optical path changing section 12b are reflective members.

The optical path changing section 12a changes the optical path of the light emitted from the light source section 11a, and causes the coin C to be irradiated with light from one side of the coin C.
The optical path changing section 12b changes the optical path of the light emitted from the light source section 11b, and causes the coin C to be irradiated with light from the other side of the coin C.
The optical path changing section 12a and the optical path changing section 12b are inclined in the same direction with respect to the longitudinal direction of the linear light beam. The longitudinal direction of the linear light ray corresponds to the longitudinal direction of the region indicated by region R2 in FIG.
By providing two optical path changing parts, the coin C can be irradiated with light from both sides.

The coin image sensor may include only one optical path changing section.
FIG. 6 is a top view schematically showing another example of the arrangement of the optical path changing section.
FIG. 6 shows a coin image sensor 1d that includes two light guides as light sources.
The coin image sensor 1d includes one optical path changing section (optical path changing section 12a), and the optical path changing section 12a is a reflective member.

The optical path changing section 12a changes the optical path of the light emitted from the light source section 11a, and causes the coin C to be irradiated with light from one side of the coin C.
In the optical path changing unit 12a, the longitudinal direction of the linear light beam that is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the linear light beam corresponds to the longitudinal direction of the region shown as region R2 in FIG.
By providing one optical path changing section, the coin C can be irradiated with light from one side. The contrast of the outer periphery of the coin in the coin image on the side irradiated with light can be increased.

The optical path of the light emitted from the light source section 11b is not changed by the optical path changing section. Only the light directed toward the surface of the coin is used as the light emitted from the light source section 11b.
Further, in the configuration of the coin image sensor shown in FIG. 6, the light source section may be only the light source section 11a.

In the examples of the coin image sensor shown in FIGS. 4, 5, and 6, the light source section can irradiate the surface of the coin with a linear light beam, and the optical path changing section has a shape that is similar to the linear light beam. It is tilted with respect to the longitudinal direction of the ray. Since the shape of the optical path changing portion is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the linear light beam, the optical path of the linear light beam can be changed to a direction in which light can be irradiated from the side of the coin.

Note that in the examples of the coin image sensor shown in FIGS. 4, 5, and 6, the optical path changing section is shown as a reflective member, but other forms of optical path changing section such as a refractive member described later may be used.

Next, examples of other forms of the optical path changing section will be described.
As the optical path changing section, a reflecting member that reflects the light incident on the optical path changing section can be used. Furthermore, a refraction member that refracts the light incident on the optical path changing section can be used. Further, a refractive/reflective member that refracts and reflects the light incident on the optical path changing portion can also be used.

As specific members of the optical path changing section, a mirror or a prism as a reflecting member, a diffraction grating or a prism as a refractive member can be used. Furthermore, a prism that is both a reflective member and a refractive member can be used.
The optical path changing surface provided in the optical path changing section may have a flat surface or a curved surface.
The optical path changing surface is a reflective surface when the optical path changing section is a reflecting member, and is a refractive surface (an incident surface or an exit surface) when the optical path changing section is a refractive member. When the optical path changing section is both a reflection member and a refraction member, it is a reflection surface and a refraction surface.
An example of the optical path changing section will be described below.

Light L2 that enters the optical path changing section shown below is light directed toward a direction other than the surface of the coin among the light irradiated from the light source section.
FIG. 7(a) is a perspective view schematically showing a prism that is a reflective member as an example of an optical path changing section, and FIG. 7(b) is a side view of the prism shown in FIG. 7(a).
In the prism 21 as a reflecting member shown in FIG. 7(a), the reflecting surface 21a, which is an optical path changing surface, is a flat surface. The light L2 incident on the prism 21 is reflected by the reflective surface 21a of the prism 21, its optical path is changed, and the coin is irradiated from the side of the coin.
Furthermore, when the optical path changing section is a reflecting member, its shape is not limited to a prism, but may be a plate-shaped mirror member.
Examples of the positions in which the optical path changing section, which is a reflective member shown in FIGS. 7(a) and 7(b), is arranged on the coin image sensor are shown in FIGS. 4, 5, and 6.

FIG. 8(a) is a perspective view schematically showing a prism that is a reflecting member and a refractive member as an example of an optical path changing section, and FIG. 8(b) is a side view of the prism shown in FIG. 8(a). be. FIG. 8(c) is a top view schematically showing an example of a position where the optical path changing unit shown in FIGS. 8(a) and 8(b) is arranged on the coin image sensor 1e.

The prism 22 as a reflective member shown in FIG. 8A is a combination of a prism 22b and a prism 22c, and the boundary surface between the prism 22b and the prism 22c becomes a reflective surface 22a. The reflective surface 22a is a flat surface. The light L2 incident on the prism 22 is refracted at an incident surface 22d of the prism 22c located on the incident side, reflected at a reflective surface 22a, and refracted at an exit surface 22e from the prism 22c. The entrance surface 22d and the exit surface 22e are refractive surfaces.
The optical path changing surfaces are a reflecting surface 22a, an entrance surface 22d and an exit surface 22e, which are refracting surfaces, all of which are flat.
The optical path of the light incident on the prism 22 is changed by a combination of reflection and refraction, and the light is irradiated onto the coin from the side of the coin.

FIG. 9(a) is a perspective view schematically showing a diffraction grating that is a refractive member as an example of an optical path changing section, and FIG. 9(b) is a side view of the diffraction grating shown in FIG. 9(a). . FIG. 9(c) is a top view schematically showing an example of the position where the optical path changing unit shown in FIGS. 9(a) and 9(b) is arranged on the coin image sensor 1f.
In the diffraction grating 23 as a refractive member shown in FIGS. 9(a) and 9(b), it is assumed that the diffraction grating (slit) is formed on the output surface 23e. Note that the diffraction grating (slit) may be formed on the incident surface.
The optical path changing surface is the exit surface 23e, which is a surface on which a diffraction grating is formed. The output surface 23e is a flat surface. The light incident on the diffraction grating 23 is refracted by the diffraction grating 23, its optical path is changed, and the light is irradiated onto the coin from the side of the coin.
The shape of the diffraction grating may be rectangular or may be a blazed shape with a large first-order diffraction intensity.

FIG. 10(a) is a perspective view schematically showing a prism whose optical path changing surface is a reflective member having a curved surface as an example of the optical path changing section. 1g is a top view schematically showing an example of a position where it is placed. FIG.
In the prism 24 shown in FIG. 10(a), the reflective surface 24a is a curved surface. Therefore, a lens effect occurs, and the light incident on the prism 24 is focused, reflected, and the optical path is changed, so that the light is irradiated onto the coin from the side of the coin.
By setting the point where the light is focused to be the diameter portion of the coin when the center of the coin reaches the detection position of the light receiving section, the accuracy of measuring the diameter of the coin can be further improved.
When the optical path changing section is a curved reflective member, a resin molded product may be used.

The light source section is not limited to one that includes a rod-shaped light guide.
Modifications of the light source section will be described below.
The light source unit may include a fan-shaped light guide as a rod-shaped light guide.
FIG. 11 is a perspective view schematically showing an example of a coin image sensor including a fan-shaped light guide.
FIG. 11 shows a coin image sensor 1h including a fan-shaped light guide as a light source.
The coin image sensor 1h includes two optical path changing sections (optical path changing sections 12a and 12c), and both the optical path changing section 12a and the optical path changing section 12c are reflective members.
Light L1 directed toward the surface of the coin C and light L2 directed toward a surface other than the surface of the coin C are emitted from the light source section 11c. The light L2 directed toward a surface other than the surface of the coin C has its optical path changed by the optical path changing sections 12a and 12c, and is irradiated onto the coin C from the side of the coin C.

The light source section may be formed by arranging a plurality of light emitting elements in a line.
FIG. 12 is a perspective view schematically showing an example of a coin image sensor including a plurality of light emitting elements.
FIG. 12 shows a coin image sensor 1i including a plurality of light emitting elements as a light source.
The coin image sensor 1i includes two optical path changing sections (optical path changing sections 12a and 12c), and both the optical path changing section 12a and the optical path changing section 12c are reflective members.
As light-emitting elements, a light-emitting element 14b that emits light L1 toward the surface of the coin C, and light-emitting elements 14a and 14c that emits light L2 toward other than the surface of the coin C are shown.
The number of light emitting elements 14b, 14a, and 14c is not particularly limited. The reference numerals of the light emitting elements 14b, 14a, and 14c are representatively attached to only one light emitting element.

By arranging a plurality of light emitting elements in a linear manner, the light emitting elements as a whole become a light source unit that can emit a linear light beam. Further, the light emitting elements may be arranged in a straight line or in a curved shape such as a fan shape. FIG. 12 shows an example in which light emitting elements are arranged in a fan shape.

The light L2 emitted from the light emitting elements 14a and 14c and directed toward a surface other than the surface of the coin C has its optical path changed by the optical path changing sections 12a and 12c, and is irradiated onto the coin C from the side of the coin C.

(Embodiment 2)
The coin image sensor according to the present disclosure further includes a box-shaped casing with an opening on one side in which a light source section and a light receiving section are installed, and a plate-shaped transparent section provided in the opening of the casing. The optical path changing section may be disposed on a surface of the transparent section opposite to a surface with which the coin comes into contact.
FIG. 13 is a top view schematically showing an example of a coin image sensor, and FIG. 14 is a sectional view along YZ plane of the coin image sensor shown in FIG. 13.

The coin image sensor 1j shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 includes a box-shaped housing 119 with one side open, and a plate-shaped transparent part 121 provided in the opening of the housing 119.
Further, inside the housing 119, a light source section 11a, a light source section 11b, and a light receiving section 13 are installed.
The surface of the coin C comes into contact with the transparent portion 121 and the coin C is conveyed.
An optical path changing section 12a and an optical path changing section 12b are provided on the surface of the transparent section 121 opposite to the surface with which the coin comes into contact.

The transparent section provided with the optical path changing section will be explained.
FIG. 15(a) is a top view schematically showing an example of a transparent part provided with an optical path changing part, and FIG. 15(b) is a sectional view taken along line BB of the transparent part shown in FIG. 15(a). It is.
FIG. 15A shows a first surface 121a and a second surface 121b of the transparent portion 121. The first surface 121a is the surface (conveyance surface) that the coin C comes into contact with, and the optical path changing section 12a and the optical path changing section 12b are arranged on the second surface 121b, which is the surface opposite to the first surface 121a.

The transparent portion 121 may be made of glass (cover glass) such as sapphire glass. Moreover, the materials of the optical path changing part and the transparent part may be the same or different. The optical path changing part may be made of a material such as glass or transparent resin into a predetermined shape, and the optical path changing part may be integrated with the transparent part by adhering it to the transparent part.

The transparent portion is a member included in a conventional coin image sensor, and the surface of the coin C is conveyed while being in contact with the transparent portion. When the optical path changing portion is provided on the surface of the transparent portion opposite to the surface with which the coin comes into contact, the optical path changing portion does not interfere with the conveyance of the coin. Furthermore, when the optical path changing section is provided in the transparent section, it is only necessary to replace the transparent section in a conventional coin image sensor including the transparent section, so the device configuration is simple. Therefore, the contrast of the outer periphery of the coin in the coin image can be improved at low cost.

Further, the coin image sensor according to the present disclosure includes a box-shaped casing with an opening on one side in which a light source section and a light receiving section are installed, and a plate-shaped transparent section provided in the opening of the casing. The light source unit irradiates a linear light beam toward the transparent portion, and a central light component of the linear light beam passes through the transparent portion and is irradiated onto the surface of the coin. The optical path of the light component located at one end may be changed by the optical path changing section and irradiated onto the coin from the side of the coin.

FIG. 14 shows only the light source part 11a as a light source part, and shows light L1 emitted from the light source part 11a, transmitted through the transparent part 121, and irradiated onto the surface of the coin, and light L2 directed toward other than the surface of the coin. It shows.
The light beam emitted from the light source part 11a toward the transparent part 121 is a linear light beam, and the central light component of the linear light beam passes through the transparent part 121 and is irradiated onto the surface of the coin, L1. Become. The light component located at the end of the linear light beam is light L2 directed toward a direction other than the surface of the coin, and the optical path of the light L2 is changed by the optical path changing section and is irradiated onto the coin from the side of the coin.
FIG. 14 shows light L2 emitted from the light source section 11a and whose optical path is changed by the optical path changing section 12a. The coin image sensor 1j shown in FIG. 13 includes a light source section 11b not shown in FIG. 14. As shown in FIG. 13, the optical path changing section 12b changes the optical path of the light L2 emitted from the light source section 11b. In FIG. 14, the optical path related to the optical path changing section 12b is not shown.

(Embodiment 3)
FIG. 16 is a perspective view schematically showing an example of a coin image sensor, and FIG. 17 is a perspective exploded schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the coin image sensor shown in FIG. 16.

The coin image sensor 110 shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 includes two light source sections 111a, a light source section 111b, optical path changing sections 12a and 12b, a light receiving section 113, and a substrate 114. The light sources 111a and 111b each include a rod-shaped light guide 115 and a plurality of types of light emitting elements 116 that face each end face of the light guide 115 and emit light of a plurality of wavelengths, and each of the light sources 111a and 111b is provided with a rod-shaped light guide 115 and a plurality of types of light emitting elements 116 that respectively irradiate light of a plurality of wavelengths. The surface of the light receiving unit 113 side is sequentially irradiated with light of a plurality of wavelengths. Both ends of each light guide 115 are held by the holder 117 by being inserted into holes formed in the holder 117, and a substrate 118 on which a light emitting element 116 is mounted is placed adjacent to each holder 117. There is. The condensing lens 112 is composed of, for example, a rod lens array in which a plurality of rod lenses are arranged in the main scanning direction (Y direction) of the coin image sensor. Collects the reflected light. These members are assembled in a box-shaped housing 119 with one side open, and the opening of the housing 119 is covered with a plate-shaped transparent part 121.
An optical path changing section 12a and an optical path changing section 12b are arranged on the second surface 121b of the transparent section 121.
The light receiving section 113 includes, for example, a linear image sensor in which a plurality of light receiving elements (light receiving pixels) are arranged in the main scanning direction (Y direction) of the coin image sensor, and each light receiving element is connected to the light source section 111a and the light source section. It is sensitive to the wavelength band of light of multiple wavelengths irradiated by 111b.
For each light receiving element, for example, a silicon (Si) photodiode having sensitivity from at least the visible region to the infrared region with a wavelength of 1100 nm can be used. Each light-receiving element is mounted on a substrate 114 attached to the back side of the housing 119, receives the light condensed by the condenser lens 112, converts it into an electric signal according to the amount of incident light, and sends it to the substrate. 114. Each light receiving element receives light of each wavelength in accordance with the irradiation timing of light of each wavelength by the light source section 111a and the light source section 111b. The substrate 114 includes, for example, a drive circuit for driving the light receiving element and a signal processing circuit for processing and outputting a signal from the light receiving element. The substrate 114 amplifies the output signal of the light receiving section 113 (each light receiving element), performs A/D conversion to digital data, and then outputs the signal.
A plurality of ventilation holes 123 for air circulation are formed in the housing 119. Air circulation can prevent dew condensation on the transparent portion 121.

(Embodiment 4)
The coin image sensor of the present disclosure can be used in coin identification devices and coin processing devices.
Below, an example of a coin identification device including the coin image sensor of the present disclosure and an example of a coin processing device of the present disclosure including the coin identification device will be described.
The coin processing device of the present disclosure described below is a coin processing device including the coin image sensor of the present disclosure because it includes a coin identification device including the coin image sensor of the present disclosure.
FIG. 18 is a perspective view schematically showing an example of a coin identification device.
FIG. 19 is a block diagram schematically showing an example of the configuration of a coin identification device.

The coin identification device 100 shown in FIG. 18 includes a magnetic detection sensor 150, a coin image sensor 110, a fitness detection sensor (optical detection sensor) 160, a phosphorescence detection sensor 170, and a fluorescent A detection sensor 180 is provided, and these plurality of sensors are integrated. The arrow in FIG. 18 indicates the conveyance direction of the coin C passing through the conveyance path.

In the coin identification device, various other sensors may be installed around the coin image sensor. By arranging individual sensors corresponding to each detection element of the coin C, highly accurate detection is possible, and the identification ability (identification accuracy) of the coin identification device is improved. Further, it is possible to determine the denominations of a wide variety of coins C, and the sensor unit can be applied globally. Furthermore, by combining a plurality of sensors into one, it is possible to reduce costs and save space. As for the sensors other than the coin image sensor, a detailed description thereof will be omitted because common sensors in the field of coin identification devices can be applied.

The coin identification device 100 shown in FIG. 18 includes a transport unit 190 that transports coins C along the transport direction, and continuously transports a large number of coins and continuously acquires coin images using a coin image sensor 110. It may also be possible to do so.
The transport section 190 that transports the coins C includes, for example, a transport belt 190a stretched above the transport surface (+Z direction side) along the transport path, and transport pins 190b fixed at regular intervals to the transport belt 190a. It is possible to use a configuration provided with the following.
The conveyor belt 190a is driven by a drive device including a pulley, a motor, and the like. The cylindrical conveyance pin 190b contacts the outer edge of the coin C, and the conveyance belt 190a moves, so that the coins C are conveyed one by one along the conveyance path at intervals. Note that the configuration of the conveying section 190 is not limited to the illustrated configuration as long as it can convey the coin C, and the conveying pin 190b may be omitted and only the conveying belt 190a may be used, or the shape of the conveying pin 190b may be omitted. and the size may be changed. When the conveyance pin 190b is omitted, the conveyance belt 190a moves together with the coin C while pressing the surface of the coin C. By providing the conveyance belt 190a, the coin C can be slid while being in contact with the surface of the conveyance path or the conveyance guide, so that the accuracy of detection by sensors such as the coin image sensor 110 can be improved. Further, by providing the conveyance pin 190b, the position of the coin C during conveyance can be regulated, so that the accuracy of detection by sensors such as the coin image sensor 110 can be improved. The coin C can slide on the conveyance surface while being biased toward the end of the conveyance path.
Note that the coin identification device including the coin image sensor of the present disclosure may be a device that images a coin that is not being transported.
Further, the shape of the optical path changing section included in the coin image sensor may be inclined with respect to the transport direction.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 19, the coin identification device 100 uses the coin image acquired by the coin image sensor 110 to identify and determine the type, authenticity, integrity (defacement), etc. of the coin C. It may also include an identification section 181 and a storage section 182.
The storage unit 182 stores coin information regarding the coin C to be processed, and stores a coin image (image for identification processing) captured by the coin image sensor 110 as the coin C is processed. The identification unit 181 identifies and determines the type, authenticity, integrity (defacement), etc. of the coin C by comparing the coin information and the image for identification processing.

The physical configuration of the identification unit includes, for example, a software program for realizing various processes, a CPU (central processing unit) that executes the software program, and various hardware controlled by the CPU (for example, an FPGA (field Programmable Gate Array)). A storage unit, a separately provided memory such as RAM or ROM, a hard disk, etc. are used to store software programs and data necessary for the operation of each part.

Examples of the physical configuration of the storage unit include storage devices such as volatile or nonvolatile memory and hard disks. The storage unit is used to store various data necessary for processing performed by the coin identification device.

A coin identification device including the coin image sensor of the present disclosure can be used in the coin processing device of the present disclosure.
In addition to the coin identification device, the coin processing device includes a portion having a function other than coin identification.
The coin processing device is configured to perform processing for depositing and dispensing coins, generating wrapped coins, dispensing wrapped coins, and the like. Note that the wrapped coins are composed of a predetermined number of coins (for example, 50 coins), and these predetermined number of coins may be wrapped with a packaging material.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view schematically showing an example of a coin processing device.
The coin processing device 2 includes a coin identification device 100 (not shown in FIG. 20) in a housing 200, and further includes a coin input section 201, a reject section 206, a return box 207, a payout box 210, and a collection section. 211, a packaged coin dispensing section 231, a packaged coin bulk box 232, a packaged coin dispensing section 233, and the like.
These components can be housed within the housing 200 of the coin processing device 2.
Further, the coin processing device 2 may include an operation display section 260 outside the housing 200.

The coin input section 201 is a section into which coins to be processed are input.
The reject section 206 is a section to which coins that are identified by the coin identifying device 100 and should be rejected (reject coins) are guided.
The return box 207 is configured to store coins to be returned. The return box 207 is configured to be detachable from the housing 200 of the coin processing device 2 and can be pulled out from the front of the housing 200.
The payout box 210 is a part where coins to be paid out are stored. The dispensing box 210 is configured to be detachable from the casing 200 of the coin processing device 2 and can be pulled out from the front of the casing 200.
The collection unit 211 is a part that stores coins to be collected. The collection unit 211 is configured to be detachable from the housing 200 of the coin processing device 2 and can be pulled out from the front surface of the housing 200.

The wrapped coin dispensing unit 231 is a part that accumulates wrapped coins (wrapped coins to be dispensed). The packaged coin dispensing unit 231 is provided with a dispensing port that opens on the front surface of the casing 200 of the coin processing device 2, and the dispensing port is provided with a shutter. Then, by opening the shutter, the operator can take out the packaged coin from the packaged coin dispensing section 231.
The packaged coin bulk box 232 is a part that accumulates packaged coins (packaged coins to be dispensed), and has a larger accumulation capacity than the packaged coin dispensing section 231. The packaged coin bulk box 232 is configured to be detachable from the coin processing device 2 (specifically, the housing 200).
The wrapped coin dispensing unit 233 is a part that dispenses wrapped coins to the outside of the coin processing device 2 .

The operation display section 260 is configured to be operated by an operator and to input information in accordance with the operation by the operator. Thereby, the operator can cause the coin processing device 2 to perform various processes.

In the coin image sensor, coin identification device, and coin processing device described in the embodiments so far, a line sensor may be used as the light receiving section, or an area sensor may be used as the light receiving section.
Further, this coin image sensor, coin identification device, and coin processing device may be used for objects other than coins, and may be used for paper sheets including banknotes. For example, it may be used to detect folded bills or wrinkled bills.

Below, examples of other embodiments applicable to the coin image sensor will be described. The embodiments may be applied to the coin image sensor of the present disclosure, or may be applied to coin image sensors other than the coin image sensor of the present disclosure. It may also be applied to a sensor.

(Other embodiments)
A coin image sensor according to another embodiment includes a plurality of displacement sensors arranged in a direction perpendicular to the coin transport direction on the coin transport surface.
The plurality of displacement sensors may be provided above and below the center of the coin, respectively, when the coin transport surface is viewed from above and the vertical direction is orthogonal to the coin transport direction. good.
The displacement sensor may be provided at three locations above, below, and near the center of the coin.

By measuring the transported coin with a displacement sensor, the amount of movement along the transport direction and the amount of height movement (floating) at the position of the displacement sensor can be measured.
Examples of specific embodiments will be described below.

FIG. 21 is a top view schematically showing an example of a coin image sensor including a displacement sensor.
The displacement sensors 300a and 300b are provided on the upstream side of the conveyance path with respect to the housing 119 of the coin image sensor. Moreover, the displacement sensors 300a and 300b are provided above (+Z direction side) with respect to the coin.
Note that the coin image sensor shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 can be used. Each figure after FIG. 21 shows the housing 119 and the light receiving section 113. The coin image sensor used together with the displacement sensor does not need to be provided with an optical path changing section.

In the explanation using the drawings shown below, the magnitude of the amount of movement along the conveyance direction measured by the displacement sensor 300a and the displacement sensor 300b is indicated by the length of the arrow. It is assumed that the longer the arrow, the greater the measured amount of movement.
It is also assumed that the coin moves from left to right (+X direction) in the figure.
The coin C is transported along the transport direction (X direction) by the transport unit 190 and passes below the displacement sensor (−Z direction).
Note that the amount of movement per unit time by the displacement sensor is determined by [amount of movement measured by the displacement sensor/sampling period].

FIG. 22 is a top view schematically showing an example of measuring the amount of movement of a coin by a displacement sensor.
In FIG. 22, the coin C is moving along the conveyance direction without rotating, and the amount of movement measured by the displacement sensor 300a and the displacement sensor 300b is the same.

FIG. 23 is a top view schematically showing another example of measuring the amount of movement of a coin by a displacement sensor.
In FIG. 23, the coin C is moving along the transport direction while rotating clockwise. In this case, the amount of movement measured by displacement sensor 300a is smaller than the amount of movement measured by displacement sensor 300b.

FIGS. 24(a) and 24(b) are top views schematically showing an example of measurement of the amount of movement of a coin over time by a displacement sensor.
FIG. 24(a) shows the point in time when the leading end of the coin C passes through the displacement sensor 300a and the displacement sensor 300b, and FIG. 24(b) shows the point in time when the rear end of the coin C passes through the displacement sensor 300a and the displacement sensor 300b. It shows.
Since the amount of movement measured by the displacement sensor in FIGS. 24(a) and 24(b) is the same, it can be said that the coin is in uniform linear motion.

FIGS. 25(a) and 25(b) are top views schematically showing another example of measuring the amount of movement of a coin by a displacement sensor over time.
FIG. 25(a) shows the point in time when the leading end of the coin C passes through the displacement sensor 300a and the displacement sensor 300b, and FIG. 25(b) shows the point in time when the rear end of the coin C passes through the displacement sensor 300a and the displacement sensor 300b. It shows.
Since the amount of movement measured by displacement sensor 300a and displacement sensor 300b in FIG. 25(a) is smaller than the amount of movement measured by displacement sensor 300a and displacement sensor 300b in FIG. 25(b), the coin moves while being accelerated. It can be said that

If there is a difference in the amount of movement for each displacement sensor, an image without distortion can be obtained by performing image correction (calculation and correction of parallel movement and rotation angle) according to the amount of movement.

Although each embodiment has been described above with reference to the drawings, the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiment. Furthermore, the configurations of each embodiment may be combined or modified as appropriate without departing from the gist of the present disclosure.

As described above, the present disclosure is a technique useful for improving the contrast of the image of the outer periphery of a coin in a coin image.

1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f, 1g, 1h, 1i, 1j: Coin image sensor 2: Coin processing device 11, 11a, 11b, 11c: Light source section 12, 12a, 12b, 12c: Optical path changing section 13 : Light receiving parts 14a, 14b, 14c: Light emitting elements 21, 22, 22b, 22c, 24: Prisms 21a, 22a, 24a: Reflection surface 23: Diffraction grating 22d: Incident surface (refraction surface)
22e, 23e: Output surface (refraction surface)
100: Coin identification device 110: Coin image sensors 111a, 111b: Light source section 112: Condensing lens 113: Light receiving section 114: Substrate 115: Light guide 116: Light emitting element 117: Holder 118: Substrate 119: Housing (coin image sensor housing)
121: Transparent part 121a: First surface of transparent part (conveyance surface)
121b: Second surface of transparent part 123: Ventilation hole 150: Magnetic detection sensor 160: Good/damage detection sensor (optical detection sensor)
170: Phosphorescence detection sensor 180: Fluorescence detection sensor 181: Identification section 182: Storage section 190: Conveyance section 190a: Conveyance belt 190b: Conveyance pin 200: Housing (casing of coin processing device)
201: Coin input section 206: Reject section 207: Return box 210: Dispensing box 211: Collection section 231: Wrapped coin dispensing section 232: Wrapped coin bulk box 233: Wrapped coin dispensing section 260: Operation display section 300a, 300b : Displacement sensor C: Coin Cb: Back side of the coin Ce: Coin edge Cf: Front side of the coin (front side)
Cs: Side of the coin L1: Light directed toward the surface of the coin L2: Light directed toward other than the surface of the coin R1: Portion of the coin irradiated with light L1 R2: Portion of the coin irradiated with light L2

Claims (16)

A coin image sensor that collects an image of a coin,
a light source unit that irradiates light onto the surface of the coin;
an optical path changing unit that changes the optical path of light directed toward a surface other than the surface of the coin among the light irradiated from the light source unit, and irradiates the coin with light from a side of the coin;
A coin image sensor comprising: a light receiving section that receives reflected light from the coin. The coin image sensor according to claim 1, comprising a plurality of said optical path changing sections. The coin image sensor according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the optical path changing surface of the optical path changing section has a flat surface or a curved surface. 4. The coin image sensor according to claim 1, wherein the optical path changing section is a reflecting member that reflects incident light. 5. The coin image sensor according to claim 1, wherein the optical path changing section is a refraction member that refracts incident light. The coin image sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the light source unit irradiates a linear light beam onto the surface of the coin. The coin image sensor according to claim 6, wherein the light source section includes a light emitting element and a rod-shaped light guide. 7. The coin image sensor according to claim 6, wherein the light source section includes a plurality of light emitting elements arranged in a line. The coin image sensor according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the shape of the optical path changing portion is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the linear light beam. 10. The coin image sensor according to claim 1, wherein the light receiving section is a line sensor in which a plurality of light receiving elements are arranged in a line. a box-shaped casing with one side open, in which the light source section and the light receiving section are installed;
further comprising a plate-shaped transparent part provided in the opening of the housing,
The coin image sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the optical path changing section is arranged on a surface of the transparent section opposite to a surface with which the coin comes into contact. a box-shaped casing with one side open, in which the light source section and the light receiving section are installed;
further comprising a plate-shaped transparent part provided in the opening of the housing,
The light source section irradiates a linear light beam toward the transparent section,
A central light component of the linear light beam passes through the transparent part and is irradiated onto the surface of the coin,
12. The light component located at at least one end of the linear light beam has its optical path changed by the optical path changing section and is irradiated onto the coin from a side of the coin. The coin image sensor according to any one of the above. A coin image sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 12,
A coin identification device comprising: an identification unit that performs coin identification processing using a coin image taken by the coin image sensor. Equipped with a transport section that transports coins along the transport direction,
14. The coin identification device according to claim 13, wherein the optical path changing section included in the coin image sensor has a shape that is inclined with respect to the transport direction. A coin processing device comprising the coin identification device according to claim 13 or 14. A coin image collection method for collecting an image of a coin, the method comprising:
Irradiating light from a light source to the surface of the coin,
in the optical path changing unit, changing the optical path of the light directed toward other than the surface of the coin among the light irradiated from the light source unit, and irradiating the coin from the side of the coin,
A method for collecting a coin image, the method comprising receiving reflected light from the coin in a light receiving section.

Images