JP5368128B2 - Coin processing equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a coin processor processing a lot of denominations, and having a comparatively simple configuration of a conveyance path used for both money reception processing and replenishment processing. <P>SOLUTION: This coin processor includes: a first conveyance part 5 having a first conveyance path 5B conveying a coin with the coin pinched between opposite portions of two annular belts B4, B5; and a second conveyance part 20 conveying the coin with the coin pinched between opposite portions of two annular belts B1, B3 different from the two annular belts B4, B5, and having a second conveyance path 20B joining the first conveyance path 5B in a confluence part 30. In the confluence part 30, a second rotation plane wherein a center line of one or two annular belts B1 constituting the second conveyance path 20B rotates is disposed such that the second rotation plane is parallel to a first rotation plane wherein a center line of one or two annular belts B5 constituting the first conveyance path 5B rotates and that the second rotation plane is positioned in a position distant in a perpendicular direction Y of the first rotation plane at a prescribed distance. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a coin processing apparatus. Specifically, in the coin processing, a plurality of denomination coins can be processed in a large amount in a short time, and the replenishment conveyance unit that conveys the replenishment coins merges with the deposit conveyance unit that conveys the received coins The present invention relates to a coin processing device having a section.

  The coin processing device is used in, for example, a vending machine or a ticket vending machine, calculates and displays the total amount of coins deposited from the coin deposit slot, and displays the amount of purchased goods, tickets, etc. It is a device that pays out the change deducted from. Both deposit and withdrawal processes can be performed, multiple denomination coins can be processed in large quantities in a short time, and deposit coins can be circulated and reused as withdrawal coins. Circulation-type coin processing devices that enable replenishment corresponding to the shortage of gold coins are widely used.

Conventionally, there are various types of circulating coin processing devices, and various types of coins have been adopted for conveying coins. For example, there were the following.
(A) A replenisher is installed in the equipment frame, and replenishment and depositing are performed using a common coin feeding unit, coin transport unit, and distribution unit. Coins stored in the coin replenisher are timely, coins It is dropped onto a conveyor belt via a passage (chute) and conveyed to a coin feeding portion. The replenishment coins sent to the coin feeding part can be replenished through a common conveyance path with the deposited coins. (For example, see Patent Document 1)
(B) A transport path for coins inserted from the deposit slot and a transport path for coins stored in the coin replenishing cabinet are provided separately, so that the authenticity of coins and the denomination of coins are identified on separate transport paths. The coin can be replenished without stopping the coin deposit process. (For example, refer to Patent Document 2).

JP 07-234952 (FIGS. 1-5, paragraphs 0012-0045) JP-A-10-255102 (FIGS. 1 to 14, paragraphs 0016 to 0045)

  However, in the coin processing apparatus using the common transport path of (a), even if there is a deposit process during the replenishment process, it is not possible to deposit until the coin being replenished is processed, and replenishment until the deposit process is completed. There is a problem that processing cannot be performed and it takes time to switch between replenishment processing and deposit processing. Moreover, in the coin processing apparatus which uses a separate conveyance path for the deposit process and the replenishment process of (b), there has been a problem that the apparatus becomes large.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and is a coin processing apparatus that can process a plurality of denominations in large quantities, and has a relatively simple configuration of a conveyance path that can be used for both deposit processing and replenishment processing. An object is to provide a coin processing apparatus. It is another object of the present invention to provide a coin processing apparatus that can quickly switch between replenishment processing and deposit processing.

  In order to achieve the above object, the coin processing apparatus 1 according to the first aspect of the present invention, for example, as shown in FIG. 9, sandwiches coins between the opposed portions of two annular belts B4, B5, The coin is sandwiched between the first conveying portion 5 having the first conveying path 5B for conveying the coin and the opposing portions of the two annular belts B1 and B3 different from the two annular belts B4 and B5. A second transport path 20B, and a second transport section 20 having a second transport path 20B that joins the first transport path 5B at the merge section 30. In the merge section 30, One or two constituting the second conveyance path 20B with respect to the first rotation surface on which the center line of one or two annular belts B5 (or B4, B5) constituting one conveyance path 5B rotates. The second rotation of the center line of the two annular belts B1 (or B1, B3) Surface is disposed so as to position a predetermined distance away in the vertical direction Y of the parallel, the first rotational surface.

  Here, the coin typically includes a plurality of denominations used domestically. However, it does not exclude coins used in a single denomination or in foreign countries. Further, the first transport unit 5 may have a transport path other than the first transport path 5B, and the second transport unit 20 may have a transport path other than the second transport path 20B. For example, you may have a conveyance path which conveys a coin by pinching | interposing between a belt and a sheet metal with a smooth surface. In addition, the rotation surface may be substantially formed including variations in manufacturing and assembly of parts, and parallel and vertical should be substantially parallel and vertical including variations in manufacturing and assembly of components. good. Also, the predetermined distance is preferably larger than the approximate belt width and smaller than the sum of the belt width and the coin width because it is easy to transfer coins. In addition, one or two annular belts typically have a rotating surface (a surface including the center line of the annular belt) on which the center line of the two annular belts rotates, but the belt width is the same. It may mean that the rotational surface is slightly deviated due to differences or the like, and this case is also included. If comprised like this aspect, since it was set as the structure which joins the receipt conveyance part 5 and the replenishment conveyance part 20 in the merge part 30, it is a coin processing apparatus which can process a several denomination in large quantities, Comprising: Deposit process and replenishment process It is possible to provide a coin processing apparatus having a relatively simple structure for the conveyance path that can be used for both of the above. In addition, conveyance from two different conveyance paths to a common processing system (denomination identification and distribution) is possible, and space saving and cost reduction of the coin processing apparatus are possible.

The coin processing apparatus 1 according to the second aspect of the present invention is the coin processing apparatus according to the first aspect. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the second conveyance path 20B to the first conveyance path 5B at the junction 30 are provided. A guide G1 is provided along the second conveyance path 20B so that the coins are moved a predetermined distance in the vertical direction Y when the coins C3 to C5 are delivered to the machine.
If comprised in this way, the delivery of a coin can be smoothly performed by the apparatus which has a position shift in the advancing direction between the two conveyance paths concerning the delivery of a coin.

The coin processing apparatus 1 according to the third aspect of the present invention is the coin processing apparatus according to the first or second aspect. For example, as shown in FIG. The extended line of the conveyance path 20B is disposed so as to contact the curved portion formed by the ring of one annular belt B5 constituting the first conveyance path 5B, and the first conveyance path 5B and the second conveyance path 20B. The angle formed is 30 degrees or less.
Here, the curved portion formed by the ring of the annular belt B5 is typically an arc portion formed in a portion hung on the pulley P5, but may be a portion formed in a convex shape by a tension roller. . If comprised like this aspect, the delivery of the coin from the 2nd conveyance path 20B to the 1st conveyance path 5B can be performed smoothly. Further, the angle formed by the first conveyance path 5B and the second conveyance path 20B can be 45 degrees or less, but 30 degrees or less is suitable for smoothly transferring coins.

  The coin processing apparatus 1 according to the fourth aspect of the present invention is the coin processing apparatus according to the third aspect. For example, as shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. When the coin C5 is delivered to the conveyance path 5B, the coin C5 comes into contact with one other annular belt B4 different from the one annular belt B5 constituting the first conveyance path 5B, and the first conveyance path 5B is The two annular belts B4 and B5 are configured to be drawn into the first conveyance path 5B by rotation of the two annular belts B4 and B5. The first conveyance unit 20 is disposed between the opposed portions of the two annular belts B4 and B5. Two annular belts so as to convey the coin C5 and allow the coin C5 to escape when the coin C5 is transferred from the second conveyance path 20B to the first conveyance path 5B at the junction 30. At least one other annular belt of B4 and B5 Having 4 to tension the first tension applying means for applying a (tension) (indicated by a tension T11~T21 etc.).

  Here, when the coin C5 comes into contact with the annular belt B4, the annular belt B4 allows the coin C5 to escape by the tension of the first tension applying means (tensions T11 to T21, etc.), but temporarily rises at that portion. Due to the rotation of the two annular belts B4 and B5, the coin C5 is sandwiched between the opposing portions of these B4 and B5 and drawn into the first transport path 5B, and the swell disappears. If comprised in this way, a coin can be smoothly delivered by the junction part 30 without damage using the tension | tensile_strength by rotation of cyclic | annular belt B4, B5 and a 1st tension provision means (tension T11-T21 etc.). That is, since the guide member of the switching mechanism is not used in the merging portion 30, there is no collision of the coin with the guide member, there is no need for periodic replacement due to wear of the contact portion of the guide member, and there is no abnormal coin. The behavior can be suppressed, and troubles caused by coins and jams can be reduced. Further, since there is no switching mechanism using an actuator, the apparatus is not complicated, and space saving and cost reduction are possible.

The coin processing device 1 according to the fifth aspect of the present invention is, in the coin processing device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, for example, as shown in FIG. 9, two annular members constituting the first transport path 5B. At least one of the belts B4 and B5 and at least one of the two annular belts B1 and B3 constituting the second transport path 20B are driven independently of each other.
Here, since it is at least one, one of the two annular belts B4, B5 or B1, B3 may be directly driven by a driving means such as a motor, and the other may be driven by one rotation. If comprised in this way, since the 1st conveyance part 5 and the 2nd conveyance part 20 can be driven independently, when there is a coin in the 1st conveyance part 5, the drive of the 2nd conveyance part 20 is stopped, etc. By performing this control, it is possible to avoid the collision of coins at the junction.

The coin processing device 1 according to the sixth aspect of the present invention is the coin processing device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein one of the first transport unit 5 and the second transport unit 20 is deposited. Is a deposit transport unit 5 having a transport path 5B for transporting the coins sandwiched between opposing portions of the two annular belts B4, B5, and the other is a coin taken out from the replenishment unit 10 (see FIG. 1) Is a replenishment transport unit 20 having a transport path 20B that transports the belt between the opposed portions of the two annular belts B1 and B3.
If comprised in this way, it is a coin processing apparatus which can process a plurality of denominations in large quantities by using one as the deposit conveyance unit 5 and the other as the replenishment conveyance unit 20, and a conveyance path that can be used for both the deposit process and the supplement process. A coin processing apparatus having a relatively simple configuration can be provided. Further, it is possible to transfer the deposit processing path 5B and the replenishment transport path 20B to the transport path 5C of a common processing system (identification and distribution of denomination), and it is possible to reduce the space and cost of the coin processing apparatus.

  The coin processing apparatus 1 according to the seventh aspect of the present invention is a control for controlling the driving of the deposit conveyance section 5 and the replenishment conveyance section 20, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 9, for example, in the coin processing apparatus according to the sixth aspect. Unit 13 and a sensor unit 40 that detects whether a coin has been deposited and whether or not the deposited coin is present in the deposit transport unit 5, and during the replenishment process that drives both the deposit transport unit 5 and the replenishment transport unit 20. When the sensor unit 40 detects that the coin has been deposited, the control unit 13 stops driving the replenishment transport unit 20, and the sensor unit 40 detects that the deposited coin has disappeared from the deposit transport unit 5. Sometimes, the control unit 13 resumes driving of the replenishment transport unit 20, and the replenishment transport unit 20 is configured to have a transport path 20B that transports coins in a direction having a vertical component, and constitutes the transport path 20B. Annular belt B1, A second tension is applied to at least one of the three belts 2 so that the two annular belts B1 and B3 can hold and hold a coin between the opposing portions of the two annular belts B1 and B3 when stationary. It has tension applying means (tensions are indicated by T31 to T33 etc.).

  Here, the sensor unit 40 includes, for example, a sensor for detecting the deposit of coins in the vicinity of the deposit port 3, and a sensor for detecting the presence / absence of deposited coins in the deposit transport unit 5 in the first transport unit 5. In addition, they may be distributed in each part, and may include other sensors such as sensors for detecting the presence or absence of coins in the temporary storage unit 6 and the replenishment transport unit 20. In addition, the detection of the presence / absence of coins in the deposit transport unit 5 is preferable to detect the entire deposit transport unit 5 in order to improve the avoidance of coin collision in the merge unit 30, but for example, from the deposit feeding unit 4 to the merge unit Even if it is limited to a part of the conveying path up to 30 or the like, it is possible to avoid the collision of coins at the junction 30. If comprised like this aspect, the coin processing apparatus which can switch a replenishment process and a receipt process quickly by controlling the drive of the replenishment conveyance part 20 at the time of the start / end of a receipt process using a sensor part. Can be provided. That is, if depositing is performed during the replenishment process, the driving of the replenishment transport unit 20 can be stopped and switched to the depositing process in a short time. Moreover, since the coins can be held between the belts even when the belt is stationary by using the second tension applying means, the replenishment transport unit 20 can be started and the coins can be delivered to the deposit transport unit 5 immediately. . In addition, since the switching mechanism is not used, the coins can be delivered smoothly without any damage that may occur when the joining portion 30 contacts the components of the switching mechanism.

  According to the present invention, since the deposit conveyance unit and the replenishment conveyance unit are merged at the merge unit, the coin processing apparatus can process a plurality of denominations in large quantities, and can be used for both the deposit process and the replenishment process. It is possible to provide a coin processing device having a relatively simple transport path. Further, according to a preferred aspect of the present invention, a coin process that can quickly switch between the replenishment process and the deposit process by controlling the driving of the replenishment transport unit at the start / end of the deposit process using the sensor unit. Equipment can be provided.

It is a block diagram which shows the flow of the money_receiving | payment process in a coin processing apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows the flow of the replenishment process and withdrawal process in a coin processing apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows the flow of the control signal in a coin processing apparatus. It is a figure which shows the longitudinal cross-sectional view of a temporary storage part. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a money_receiving | payment process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of coin collection | recovery. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of coin replenishment. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a payment process. It is the schematic which showed the structure of the conveyance means in a coin processing apparatus. It is an enlarged view of the confluence | merging part in a coin processing apparatus. It is a figure which shows the detailed flow (the 1) of a coin replenishment process. It is a figure which shows the detailed flow (the 2) of a coin replenishment process. 6 is an enlarged view of a merging portion in Embodiment 2. FIG.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description is omitted.

[Configuration of coin processing device]
1, 2, and 3 are block diagrams illustrating a configuration of a coin processing device 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the flow of deposit processing in the coin processing apparatus 1. The flow of incoming coins (L1) is indicated by a thick straight line, the flow of coins returned (L2) when the user cancels the transaction, and the flow of rejected coins (L3) is indicated by a thick and short broken line. The flow (L4) of the recovered coins to be recovered is indicated by a thick dotted line. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the flow of replenishment processing and withdrawal processing in the coin processing device 1. Withdrawal coins to be withdrawn after the transaction with the user is completed, the flow of supplementary coins (L5) is indicated by a thick one-dot chain line, and the flow of supplementary reject coins to which supplementation has been rejected (L6) is indicated by a thick two-dot chain line. Is indicated by a thick broken line (L7). FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the flow of control signals in the coin processing device 1. The flow of the control signal is indicated by a thin dotted line (L8).

  The coin processing apparatus 1 includes a box-shaped apparatus main body 2 and a deposit port 3, a deposit feeding section 4, a deposit transport section 5, a temporary storage section 6, a stacker section 7, and a withdrawal transport section disposed in the apparatus body 2. 8, a withdrawal port 9, a replenishment unit 10, a replenishment transport unit 20, a safe unit 11, a replenishment rejection box 12, and a control unit 13. Further, the deposit conveyance unit 5 and the replenishment conveyance unit 20 merge at the merge unit 30. Sensors are arranged in each part, but these sensors belong to the sensor part 40 as well.

  The deposit port 3 is provided in an opening on the customer service surface (not shown), and a coin (money) (not shown) to be put in one or a plurality of coins (not shown) in the transaction from the user (not shown) is stored in the coin processing device 1. accept. A deposit detector (not shown) as a sensor for detecting the deposit is provided near the deposit port 3 to detect the deposit. The deposit detector belongs to the sensor unit 40.

  The deposit feeding unit 4 separates the coins received by the deposit port 3 one by one and feeds them to the deposit transport unit 5.

The deposit conveyance unit 5 (see FIG. 9) as the first conveyance unit includes deposit conveyance paths 5A to 5C, a first conveyance driving unit, a first tension applying unit, a first sensor unit, and the like. , An identification unit 14, a distribution unit 15, and a merge unit 30. The first sensor unit belongs to the sensor unit 40 in addition to the deposit conveyance unit 5. The deposit conveyance paths 5 </ b> A to 5 </ b> C are driven by first conveyance drive means (including the drive motor M <b> 1), and convey coins fed from the deposit feeding unit 4 to the sorting unit 15 through the identification unit 14. The deposit conveyance unit 5 is a deposit conveyance unit that conveys coins between an annular belt (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as a belt) B4 and a roller (roller guide, tension roller, etc.) between the deposit feeding unit 4 and the junction unit 30. In the path 5A and the merging section 30, the surface of the belt B4 and the distribution section 15 are smooth in the deposit conveyance path 5B as the first conveyance path that conveys coins between the belts B4 and B5 facing each other and the distribution section 15. Between the sheet metal (distribution board) 17, it has the deposit conveyance path 5C which pinches and conveys a coin. The first transport drive means is composed of a deposit / distribution transport drive motor M1, pulleys P1 to P3, and the like, and directly drives a main driving belt B4 hung thereon. Further, the driven belt B5 is contacted and rotated indirectly by the rotation of the main driving belt B4. The first tension applying means applies tension to the belts B4 and B5 with a tension roller (the tension is indicated by T11 to T21) or the like. In the first sensor unit, sensors S11 to S17 are provided at appropriate positions in the deposit conveyance paths 5A to 5C, and the conveyance of coins is monitored by blocking light when the coins pass. A signal that detects the passage of the coin is transmitted to the control unit 13.

  The identification part 14 identifies the authenticity of the coin to be conveyed, and the denomination one by one. A sensor, a detection circuit, a CPU (central processing unit), a data storage unit, and the like for identifying the outer shape or size are provided inside, and the authenticity and type of the coin are identified, and the identification information is output to the control unit 13. In this embodiment, the denominations are four denominations of 10 yen, 50 yen, 100 yen, and 500 yen. It is also possible to add 6 denominations by adding 1 yen and 5 yen. The true / false identification of coins is the identification of genuine coins (true coins) and false coins, the distinction between regular-shaped regular coins and extremely worn / deformed regular coins, For example, if the device is installed in Japan, it is possible to distinguish between Japanese coins and foreign coins. Includes identification. Among these coins, those listed in the latter are called reject coins.

  The sorting unit 15 includes a reject unit 16 and a sorting plate 17 (see FIG. 9), and the reject unit 16 sorts coins between regular coins and reject coins. Furthermore, the regular coins are sorted by denomination by the sorting plate 17. The sorting plate 17 is made of a sheet metal having a smooth surface, has a hole of a size of each denomination, and distributes the coins conveyed by the conveying annular belt B4 to the temporary holding units 6 corresponding to each denomination. . Note that the denomination distribution is not limited to the distribution plate, and may have a plurality of distribution claws. The reject unit 16 includes a sorting claw (not shown) provided upstream of the sorting plate 17 and a chute (not shown) below it. In the case of a depositing operation, deposits other than regular coins are rejected, and coins are distributed to the withdrawal port 9. In the case of the replenishment operation, replenishment coins (other than regular coins) that cannot be replenished are rejected, and the coins are distributed to the replenishment reject box 12. In the reject unit 16, each reject coin is output by an operation timing signal output from the control unit 13 based on the identification information from the identification unit 14, and is distributed by operating a sorting claw by a driving means (solenoid) or a link mechanism (not shown). . In the case of the present embodiment, switching between deposit and replenishment is performed by deposit / replenishment distribution means 18 of the temporary storage unit 6 described later, and a chute (not shown) below the reject unit 16 is also the same as the temporary storage unit 6. Provided in the unit.

  The temporary holding unit 6 temporarily holds, for each denomination, the deposited coins that the user has thrown in and the supplementary coins that the clerk has replenished. The temporary storage unit 6 distributes the stored deposit coins to the stacker unit (circulation change unit) 7 side by confirming the deposit process. Further, when there is a cancellation of the deposit process due to the cancellation of the transaction or a mistake in transporting the coins, the temporary holding unit 6 distributes the deposited coins to the withdrawal transport unit 8 side without sending them to the stacker unit 7. The deposited coins distributed to the stacker unit 7 and stored for each denomination are sent from the stacker unit 7 to the user through the withdrawal transport unit 8 and the withdrawal port 9 for withdrawal after the end of the transaction with the user. Withdrawal.

  The temporary holding unit 6 confirms the replenishment processing of the temporarily replenished coins (for example, when a predetermined number of replenished sheets are replenished to the temporary holding unit 6 or when the replenishment to the temporary holding unit 6 is completed). To the stacker unit 7 side. When there is an error in the replenishment process, the temporary storage unit 6 distributes the replenishment coins to the replenishment reject box 12, and the sorted replenishment coins are stored in the replenishment reject box 12.

  FIG. 4 shows a longitudinal sectional view of the temporary holding chamber 19 of the temporary holding unit 6. The temporary storage unit 6 includes a payment / replenishment distribution unit 18 and temporary storage chambers 19 (total in FIG. 4) arranged horizontally in a row for each denomination (4 denominations) on the deposit side. 4), temporary holding chambers 19 (four in total) arranged horizontally in a line for each denomination (4 denominations) on the replenishment side, and coins remaining in the temporary holding chamber 19 on the deposit side and the replenishment side Each has a residual coin detection means (not shown) for detection. The deposit / replenishment distribution means 18 is disposed on the upper chute 51 and has a shutter 56 (a total of four) that switches the receipt of coins between the deposit side and the supplement side. For example, the shutter 56 is configured to be rotatable around a rotation shaft 57, and accepts coins on the deposit side at the solid line position in FIG. 4, and accepts coins on the replenishment side at the one-dot chain line position. Depending on the position of the shutter 56, the coin falls to either the deposit side or the replenishment side. Reference numeral 28 denotes an inner wall surface of the temporary holding chamber 19. Corresponding to the depositing / replenishing operation of the apparatus, the coins distributed for each denomination by the sorting plate 17 (see FIG. 9) are sent downward toward the upper chute 51 in the vertical direction (Z direction in FIG. 4). Then, the shutter 56 sorts the temporary holding chamber 19 on the deposit side (left side in FIG. 4) and the temporary holding chamber 19 on the replenishment side (right side in FIG. 4).

The temporary storage unit 6 further has shutter mechanisms 21 at the bottom of the temporary storage chamber 19 on the deposit side and the bottom of the temporary storage chamber 19 on the replenishment side. The rotation mechanism drives the shutter mechanism 21 and rotates the shutter 22 around the rotation shaft 27. Each shutter mechanism 21 has a shutter 22 (22 ₁ and 22 _2). The deposit side, in a state where the shutter 22 ₁ and the shutter 22 ₂ are closed together (Fig. 4 in the position indicated by the solid line), the coin is held in the escrow chamber 19, opened the shutter 22 ₁ (FIG. 4 in dashed lines position) coin fall to the stacker portion 7, opened the shutter 22 ₂ (position of the one-dot chain line in FIG. 4) coin falls to the path leading to the dispensing port 9. Supplemented side, in a state where the shutter 22 ₁ and the shutter 22 ₂ are closed together (Fig. 4 in the position indicated by the solid line), the coin is held in the escrow chamber 19, opened the shutter 22 ₁ (FIG. 4 in dashed lines position) coin fall to the stacker portion 7, opened the shutter 22 ₂ (position of the one-dot chain line in FIG. 4) coin falls to the path leading to replenishment reject box 12. The temporary holding unit 6 further includes an upper chute 51 (four in total) and a temporary holding chamber on the depositing side and the replenishment side, which are arranged above the temporary holding chamber 19 on the depositing side and the temporary holding chamber 19 on the replenishing side, respectively. 19 has a partition plate 23 (four in total) arranged at the lower part. The partition plate 23 on the deposit side partitions the path to the stacker unit 7 after the coin has dropped and the path to the withdrawal port 9, and the partition plate 23 on the replenishment side connects to the stacker unit 7 after the coin has dropped. The route and the route to the replenishment reject box 12 are partitioned.

  The temporary storage unit 6 further has a chute chamber (not shown) on the depositing side and a replenishment side (one each) below the rejecting unit 16. The chute chamber has an upper chute in the upper part, a lower chute on the deposit side that branches from the upper chute in the lower part, and a lower chute on the replenishment side. The lower chute on the deposit side communicates with the withdrawal port 9. The lower chute on the replenishment side communicates with the replenishment reject box 12.

  The stacker unit 7 is configured to include four stackers 50 for each denomination. Each stacker 50 includes a storage unit (not shown) that stores a large amount of coins, and a discharge mechanism (not shown) that discharges coins. It is comprised including. The release mechanism is activated when a transaction requires a withdrawal to a trader or when a stored coin is collected. The release mechanism has a distribution claw (not shown), and when the distribution claw is on the withdrawal conveyance unit 8 side, the distribution claw releases the coin as a withdrawal coin to the withdrawal conveyance unit 8, When the dividing claw is on the safe unit 11 side, coins are discharged to the safe unit 11 as recovered coins by the sorting claw. The withdrawal coin is, for example, a change coin, and usually includes a plurality of coins, but may be a single coin.

  The withdrawal conveyance unit 8 includes a withdrawal conveyance path 8 and a conveyance driving unit (not shown). The withdrawal / conveyance path 8 is configured to include an annular belt (not shown) for conveyance. The conveyance drive means includes a pulley (not shown) that is looped around the annular belt and moves the annular belt to convey coins, and a drive motor (not shown) as a rotation drive means that rotationally drives the pulley. Composed. In addition to the withdrawal coin (withdrawal as change after the transaction), a rejection coin from the rejection unit 16 and a return coin from the temporary storage unit 6 (returned by canceling the transaction) are also discharged to the withdrawal conveyance path 8. .

  The withdrawal port 9 is provided so as to open on the customer service surface (not shown). A withdrawal coin, a reject coin, and a return coin conveyed by an annular belt (not shown) for conveyance of the dispensing conveyance unit 8 are discharged to the dispensing port 9. Further, the foreign matter remaining in the deposit feeding unit 4 can be discharged from the deposit feeding unit 4 by the operation of the deposit feeding unit 4 and discharged toward the dispensing port 9.

  The replenishment unit 10 replenishes the stacker unit 7 with coins replenished by a staff member, and includes a storage unit (not shown) and a discharge mechanism (not shown). The storage unit stores a large amount of replenishment coins (for example, a total of about 1400 coins including 500 10-yen coins, 200 50-yen coins, 500 100-yen coins, and 200 500-yen coins). The discharging mechanism discharges the stored supplementary coins one by one, and a coin feeding device similar to the deposit feeding unit 4 can be used.

  The replenishment conveyance unit 20 (see FIG. 9) as a second conveyance unit conveys coins fed out from the replenishment unit 10, and includes replenishment conveyance paths 20A and 20B, second conveyance driving means, and second tension application. Means (tensions T31 to T33, etc.), second sensor parts (sensors S21 to S23, etc.), etc., and further, the joining part 30 is configured to join the deposit conveyance part 5. The second sensor unit belongs to the sensor unit 40 in addition to the replenishment transport unit 20. The replenishment conveyance path 20B of the replenishment conveyance unit 20 and the deposit conveyance path 5A of the deposit conveyance unit 5 are configured to join the deposit conveyance path 5B, and the coins conveyed by the replenishment conveyance paths 20A and 20B are received by the deposit conveyance unit 5. Are transferred by the deposit transfer paths 5B and 5C, identified by the identification unit 14, distributed by the distribution unit 15, and replenished with coins to the stacker unit 7.

  The replenishing transport unit 20 transports the coins released from the replenishing unit 10 from the substantially horizontal direction to the vertical direction with the coins sandwiched between the belts B1 and B2 facing each other. A replenishing conveyance path 20B as a second conveyance path that conveys the coins between the belts B1 and B3 facing each other from a portion that rises to a junction 30 through a substantially vertical path. The second transport drive means is composed of a replenishment transport drive motor M2, a pulley, etc., and directly drives the main driving belt B1 hung thereon. Further, the driven belt B2 and the driven belt B3 are rotated and driven indirectly by the rotation of the main driving belt B1. The second tension applying means applies tension to the belts B1 to B3 with a tension roller (the tension is indicated by T31 to T33) or the like. In the second sensor unit, sensors S21 to S23 are provided at appropriate positions in the replenishment transport paths 20A and 20B, and the transport of coins is monitored by blocking light when the coins pass. A signal that detects the passage of the coin is transmitted to the control unit 13.

  The safe unit 11 has a safe for collecting and storing coins stored in the stacker unit by a collecting operation by an operator.

  The replenishment reject box 12 stores replenishment reject coins that are released from the replenishment unit 10 and are determined to be reject coins by the identification unit 14.

  The merging section (see FIGS. 9 and 10) 30 is a merging portion between the deposit conveyance path (first conveyance path) 5B of the deposit conveyance section 5 and the replenishment conveyance path (second conveyance path) 20B of the replenishment conveyance section 20. Say. In the case of the present embodiment, the merging unit 30 and the allocating unit 15 are described as being included in the deposit conveyance unit 5, but may be configured independently from the deposit conveyance unit 5 and the replenishment conveyance unit 20. The deposit conveyance path 5A of the deposit conveyance section 5 and the replenishment conveyance path 20B of the replenishment conveyance section 20 join the common conveyance path (included in the deposit conveyance section) 5B at the merge section 30. The coins transported from these transport paths 5A and 20B are transferred to the common transport path (the deposit transport path 5B of the deposit transport section 5) at the merging section 30, and further, the common transport path (the deposit transport section). 5 are transferred to the discriminating section 14 and the sorting section 15 provided in the depositing conveyance path 5C), and the coins are identified and sorted.

  The sensor unit 40 mainly uses an optical sensor that detects the interruption of light projection when coins are present / passed, and deposits coins into the deposit port 3, presence / absence of coins in the deposit transport unit 5 and replenishment transport unit 20, transport The passage of coins at an appropriate position on the road, the number of passed coins, the presence or absence of coins in the temporary storage unit 6 and the replenishment unit 10 are detected. Also, the shutter position is detected using an optical sensor. The sensor unit 40 shares the deposit conveyance unit 5 and the first sensor unit, and shares the replenishment conveyance unit 20 and the second sensor unit. A signal detected by the sensor unit 40 is transmitted to the control unit 13.

  The control unit 13 includes components (a deposit port 3, a deposit feeding unit 4, a deposit transport unit 5, a temporary storage unit 6, a stacker unit 7, a withdrawal transport unit 8, a withdrawal port 9, a replenishment unit that constitute the coin processing apparatus 1. 10, the replenishing and conveying unit 20, the safe unit 11, the replenishing reject box 12, the merging unit 30, the sensor unit 40, and the like) so that the function as the coin processing device 1 can be exhibited. In particular, the driving of the deposit transport unit 5 and the replenishment transport unit 20 is controlled by monitoring information of sensors (S11 to S17, S21 to S23, etc.) appropriately disposed in the deposit transport unit 5 and the replenishment transport unit 20. For example, the output timing of the stop signal to the driving means of the replenishment transport unit 20 is controlled. Further, based on the identification information from the identification unit 14, the rejection operation of the rejection unit 16, the distribution operation of the distribution unit 15, and the operations of the shutters 22 and 56 in the temporary storage unit 6 are controlled.

[Operation of coin processing unit]
Below, operation | movement of the coin processing apparatus 10 is demonstrated.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of the deposit process. Refer to the deposit coin flow (L1) in FIG. Moreover, the flow (L2) of coins returned when the user cancels the transaction and the flow (L3) of rejected coins whose deposit has been rejected will be described together.
First, it waits for the payment from a user (S100). When the user inserts coins into the deposit port 3 (S101), a deposit detector (not shown) detects it, and the coin processing device 10 starts deposit processing according to a command from the control unit 13 (S102). That is, the deposit conveyance unit 5 is driven by the deposit / sorting conveyance drive motor M1, and the coins inserted into the deposit port 3 are supplied to the deposit feeding unit 4 (S103). The deposit feeding unit 4 feeds the supplied coins one by one to the deposit transport unit 5 (S104). The reason for feeding out one sheet at a time is to ensure the certainty of distribution in the identification unit 15. Coins fed one by one from the deposit feeding unit 4 are transported by the deposit transport unit 5 (S105). The deposit conveyance section 5 has a deposit conveyance path 5A that conveys between the belt B4 and the roller through the coin between the deposit feeding section 4 and the merge section 30, and within the merge section 30, the coin is transferred between the belts B4 and B5 facing each other. In the deposit conveyance path 5 </ b> B and the distribution unit 15, the coins are sequentially conveyed using the deposit conveyance path 5 </ b> C that conveys the coin between the belt B <b> 4 and the sheet metal 17 having a smooth surface.

Coins that have passed through the merging unit 30 reach the identification unit 14 provided in the deposit conveyance unit 5. The identification unit 14 identifies the authenticity of the conveyed coin (S106), and outputs the identification result to the control unit 13. The coins that have passed through the identification unit 14 are continuously conveyed to the distribution unit 15 by the deposit conveyance unit 5 (S107). The distribution unit 15 distributes the conveyed coins according to the signal of the control unit 13 transmitted according to the authenticity of the coins in the identification result in the identification unit 14 (S108). In this embodiment, the denomination is distributed by a hole of a denomination size provided in the distribution plate 17. Those determined to be true coins (YES in S108) are temporarily held in the temporary holding unit 6 (S109), and other foreign coins, coins other than those to be processed, etc. (NO in S108) are sent to the sorting hole in the reject unit 16. It falls and returns as a deposit reject coin (S110). A coin detection sensor (not shown) is provided between the allocating unit 15 and the temporary storage unit 6 to detect light shielding during the passage of coins, and to count the number of coins that pass through during distribution (S111). The counting result is output to the control unit 13 as deposit data. Coins held in the temporary holding unit 6 are stored in the stacker unit 7 when the transaction ends (NO in S112) (S113). Further, when the user performs an operation to cancel the transaction (YES in S112), the coins held in the temporary holding unit 6 are returned to the withdrawal port 9 via the withdrawal transport unit 8 (S114). .

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of coin recovery. Refer to the flow of recovered coins (L4) in FIG.
First, a collection operation of the coin processing apparatus 1 is performed by an attendant (S121). The collection signal is transmitted to the control unit 13, and the coin processing device 1 starts the collection process in response to a command from the control unit 13 (S122). In response to a command from the control unit 13, a sorting claw (not shown) is operated by the release mechanism of the stacker unit 7 to release coins as a collection side (S123). Coins discharged from the stacker unit 7 are stored in the safe unit 11 (S124).

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of coin replenishment. Please refer to the flow of replenished coins (L5) and the flow of replenished rejected coins (L6) rejected for replenishment in FIG.
First, replenishment coins are stored in the replenishment unit 10 of the coin processing apparatus 1 by the clerk (S131). Further, a replenishment start signal is input by the attendant, and the coin processing device 1 starts the replenishment process according to a command from the control unit 13 (S132). That is, the replenishment conveyance unit 20 is driven by the replenishment conveyance drive motor M2. In the present embodiment, typically, the deposit conveyance unit 5 is driven by the deposit conveyance / distribution drive motor M1 before the replenishment conveyance unit 20 is driven (or at the same time). Further, the replenishing unit 10 stores the supplied coins in the coin storage unit, and feeds the stored coins one by one to the replenishment transport unit 20 (S133). The reason for feeding out one sheet at a time is to ensure the certainty of distribution in the identification unit 15. The replenishment coins fed out one by one from the replenishment unit 10 are conveyed by the replenishment conveyance unit 20 (S134). The replenishing transport unit 20 transports the coins released from the replenishing unit 10 from the substantially horizontal direction to the vertical direction with the coins sandwiched between the belts B1 and B2 facing each other. The coins are sequentially transported from a portion that rises to a junction 30 through a substantially vertical path using a replenishment transport path 20B that transports the coins between belts B1 and B3 facing each other.

The replenishment coins join the deposit transport unit 5 at the join unit 30 (S135) and arrive at the identification unit 14 provided in the deposit transport unit 5. The identification unit 14 identifies the authenticity of the conveyed coin (S136), and outputs the identification result to the control unit 13. Coins that have passed through the identification unit 14 are conveyed to the distribution unit 31 (S137). The allocating unit 15 distributes the conveyed coins according to the signal of the control unit 13 transmitted according to the authenticity of the coins in the identification result in the identification unit 14 (S138). In this embodiment, the denomination is distributed by a hole of a denomination size provided in the distribution plate 17. Those determined to be true coins (YES in S138) are temporarily held in the temporary holding unit 6 (S139), and other foreign coins, coins other than the processing target (NO in S138) are sent to the sorting hole in the reject unit 16. It falls and is stored in the supplementary reject box 12 as a supplementary reject coin (S140). A coin detection sensor (not shown) is provided between the allocating unit 15 and the temporary storage unit 6 to detect light shielding during the passage of coins, and to count the number of coins that pass through during distribution (S141). The counting result is output to the control unit 13 as supplementary data. The coins held in the temporary holding unit 6 are stored in the stacker unit 7 after completion of replenishment or every predetermined number of replenishments (NO in S142) (S143). The predetermined replenishment number is, for example, about 30 sheets. When the replenishment is stopped for some reason (YES in S142), the coins (including those remaining in the replenishment conveyance path) held in the temporary holding unit 6 are stored in the refill reject box 12 (S144). ).

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the flow of the withdrawal process. Refer to the flow of withdrawal coins (L7) withdrawn after the end of the transaction with the user in FIG.
When the deposit process is started (S102), the control unit 13 compares the deposited amount with, for example, the amount necessary for the transaction confirmed by the user's operation, and the surplus amount, that is, the coin necessary for withdrawal. The denominations and the number of each denomination are calculated (S151). Based on the calculation result, the control unit 13 determines whether or not withdrawal is required (S152). If no withdrawal is required (NO in S152), the control unit 13 ends the operation without performing the withdrawal process. (S100). If withdrawal is required (YES in S152), the control unit 13 outputs a payout instruction signal that instructs the stacker unit 7 of the corresponding denomination to pay out the required number (S153). Thereby, each stacker 50 of the stacker unit 7 discharges a necessary number of coins to the dispensing transport unit 8 (S154). The coins discharged to the withdrawal transport unit 8 are transported to the withdrawal port 9 (S155), and the withdrawal process ends.

Next, the switching process between the replenishment process and the deposit process will be described in detail in relation to the merge unit 30.
FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the transport means (payment transport unit 5, replenishment transport unit 20, merge unit 30) in the coin processing apparatus 1. The deposit conveyance unit 5 includes deposit conveyance paths 5A to 5C, a first conveyance driving unit, a first tension applying unit, a first sensor unit, and the like. The deposit conveyance path is defined as a deposit conveyance path 5A between the deposit feeding section 4 and the merging section 30, and after coins are fed out from the deposit feeding section 4, it rises diagonally up to the merging section 30 (at least linearly from the middle). And the coins are conveyed between the annular belt B4 and the roller guide (G2 etc.). The inside of the merging portion 30 is a deposit conveyance path 5B as a first conveyance path, and rises linearly and obliquely upward with the same gradient as the deposit conveyance path 5A, and between the belts B4 and B5 facing each other, the belts B4 and B5 The coin is sandwiched and transported to the position of the approximate center line. From the merging portion 30 to the allocating portion 15 is set as a deposit conveyance path 5C, from the merging portion 30 to the horizontal allocating portion 15, and in the allocating portion 15, the position and surface of the substantially center line of the belt B4 is smooth. A coin is sandwiched between the sheet metal (distribution plate) 17 and conveyed. The first transport driving means includes a deposit transport / distribution drive motor M1, pulleys P1 to P3, and the like, and directly drives a main belt B4 hung thereon by the deposit transport / distribution drive motor M1. Further, the driven belt B5 hung on the pulleys P4 and P5 is indirectly driven by rotating in contact with the belt B4. The center line of the main belt B4 and the driven belt B5 rotates to form a rotation surface. In this example, the rotation surface on which the center line of the driven belt B5 rotates is the first rotation surface, but the rotation surface on which the center line of the main belt B4 rotates is also in the same plane. Some pulleys P1 to P5 also serve as tension rollers. The first tension applying means applies tension to the belts B4 and B5 with a tension roller (tensions T11 to T21) or the like. The coins sandwiched between them are transported in close contact with the belt, and tension is applied to the belt B4 so as to allow the coins to escape at the portion where the transport path is bent. In the first sensor unit, sensors S11 to S17 are provided at appropriate positions on the deposit conveyance paths 5A to 5C, and monitor the conveyance of coins.

  The replenishment conveyance unit 20 includes replenishment conveyance paths 20A and 20B, a second conveyance driving unit, a second tension applying unit, a second sensor unit, and the like. The replenishment conveyance path is a replenishment conveyance path 20A that extends from a substantially horizontal direction to a vertical direction after coins are discharged from the replenishing unit 10, and is located at a position of a substantially central line between the belts B1 and B2 facing each other. Transport it with a pinch in between. Further, a replenishment conveyance path 20B as a second conveyance path is formed from a portion that rises in the vertical direction to a junction through a substantially vertical path, and a coin is sandwiched between the belts B1 and B3 facing each other at a substantially central line position. Transport by. The second transport drive means has a replenishment transport drive motor M2 and pulleys P6 to P10 and the like, and directly drives the main belt B1 hung on the pulleys P6 to P10 by the supplement transport transport drive motor M2. Further, the driven belt B2 hung on the pulleys P11 to P13 and the driven belt B3 hung on the pulleys P14 and P15 and the like are rotated in contact with the belt B1 and indirectly driven. The center line of the main belt B1 and the driven belts B2 and B3 rotates to form a rotation surface. In this example, the rotation surface on which the center line of the main belt B1 rotates is the second rotation surface, but the rotation surface on which the center lines of the driven belts B2 and B3 rotate is also in the same surface. The second rotating surface is parallel to the first rotating surface and is disposed at a position separated by a predetermined distance in the vertical direction Y of these rotating surfaces. The predetermined distance is substantially equal to the belt width in the present embodiment, but a distance larger than the approximate belt width and smaller than the sum of the belt width and the coin width is preferable for easy coin delivery. Some pulleys P6 to P15 also serve as tension rollers. The second tension applying means applies tension to the belts B1 and B2 with a tension roller (tensions T31 to T33) or the like, and holds coins sandwiched between the belts B1 and B2 facing each other and between the belts B1 and B3 facing each other. The two annular belts B1, B2 and the two annular belts B1, B3 are opposed to the two annular belts B1, B2 and the two annular belts B1, B3 when stationary. Tension is applied to the belt so that a coin can be held between the portions. In the second sensor unit, sensors 21 to 23 are provided at appropriate positions in the replenishment transport paths 20A and 20B, and monitor the transport of coins.

  In the merge unit 30, the replenishment conveyance unit 20 is configured to merge with the deposit conveyance unit 5. The deposit conveyance unit 5 has a deposit conveyance path 5 </ b> A up to the junction unit 30, and has a deposit conveyance path 5 </ b> B as a first conveyance path in the junction unit 30. The deposit conveyance path 5B conveys the coins between the belts B4 and B5 facing each other. The deposit conveyance path 5A conveys coins between the annular belt B4 and the roller guide (G2 etc.), and delivers the coins to the deposit conveyance path 5B without changing the traveling direction of the coins. The replenishment conveyance part 20 conveys a coin to the confluence | merging part 30 by the replenishment conveyance path 20B as a 2nd conveyance path, and delivers a coin to the money_receiving | payment conveyance path 5B by the confluence | merging part 30. The replenishment conveyance path 20B conveys the coins between the belts B1 and B3 facing each other.

  FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of the merging unit 30 in the coin processing apparatus 1. FIG. 10A is an enlarged view of the merging portion 30, FIG. 10B is an arrow view seen from the AA section, and FIG. 10C is an arrow view seen from the BB section. In the replenishment transport unit 20, the second transport drive means transmits the rotation to the pulleys P6 to P10 and the like by the replenishment transport drive motor M2, and imparts the rotation to the main belt B1. In the figure, the replenishment conveyance drive motor M2 rotates counterclockwise, and imparts counterclockwise rotation to the main belt B1. The main driving belt B1 comes into contact with the driven belt B3, and imparts a clockwise rotation to the driven belt B3 by a frictional force. The main driving belt B1 and the driven belt B3 that constitute the replenishing conveyance path 20B as the second conveyance path convey the coins between the portions facing each other with a coin sandwiched in the approximate center of the belt. In this way, the coin moves in position from C3 to C4, and is moved between C4 and C5 by being sandwiched between the belt B1 and the roller guide G2 at the junction. Then, the coin is delivered to the deposit conveyance path 5B as the first conveyance path of the deposit conveyance section 5. In the replenishment conveyance path 20B, the pulleys P6 to P10 and the like on which the main driving belt B1 is hung and the pulleys P14 and P15 on which the driven belt B3 is hung also function as tension rollers. The second tension applying means (tensions T31 to T33, etc.) applies tension to the main belt B1 and the driven belt B3, and conveys the coins sandwiched between the belts B1 and B2 facing each other in close contact with the belt, In addition, tension is applied to the belt so that the two annular belts B1 and B3 can hold and hold a coin between the opposed portions of the two annular belts B1 and B3 when stationary.

  In the merging unit 30, the deposit conveyance path 5B as the first conveyance path receives coins from the replenishment conveyance path 20B as the second conveyance path. The main driving belt B4 and the driven belt B5 constituting the deposit conveyance path 5B convey the coins between the portions facing each other with a coin sandwiched in the approximate center of the belt. In the deposit conveyance unit 5, the first conveyance drive means transmits the rotation to the pulleys P1 to P3 and the like by the deposit / distribution conveyance drive motor M1, and imparts the rotation to the main belt B4. In the figure, the deposit / distribution conveyance drive motor M1 rotates clockwise and gives clockwise rotation to the main belt B4. The main belt B4 comes into contact with the driven belt B5 at the junction 30 and imparts counterclockwise rotation to the driven belt B5 by the frictional force. The pulleys P1 to P3 and the like on which the main driving belt B4 is hung and the pulleys P4 and P5 on which the driven belt B5 is hung also function as tension rollers. The first tension applying means (tensions T11 to T21, etc.) applies tension to the main belt B4 and the driven belt B5, and conveys the coins sandwiched between the belts B4 and B5 facing each other in close contact with the belt, In addition, the coins are allowed to escape at the portion where the conveyance path is bent. On the other hand, the coins fed out from the deposit feeding section 4 are sandwiched between the main driving belt B4 and the tension roller and the main driving belt B4 and the roller guide G2 in the deposit conveying path 5A, and the position is moved from C1 to C2. To. During this period, the main driving belt B4 is stretched in a substantially straight line, and is arranged such that the driven belt B5 is positioned on an extension line of contacts with a plurality of tension rollers in contact with the main driving belt B4. For this reason, the coin C2 enters straight from the deposit conveyance path 5A to the deposit conveyance path 5B at the junction 30 without changing the traveling direction. In the deposit conveyance path 5 </ b> B, the main belt B <b> 4 and the driven belt B <b> 5 convey the coins between the portions facing each other with a coin sandwiched in the approximate center of the belt. Further, in the deposit conveyance path 5C, the merging portion 30 leads to the horizontal allocating portion 15, and within the allocating portion 15, the coin B is sandwiched and conveyed between the belt B4 and the sheet metal (distribution plate) 17 having a smooth surface. To do.

  In the merge unit 30, the replenishment conveyance unit 20 merges with the deposit conveyance unit 5. Coins are transferred from the replenishment conveyance path 20B to the deposit conveyance path 5B at the junction. Coins conveyed by the main driving belt B1 and the driven belt B3 constituting the replenishing conveyance path 20B are transferred to the main driving belt B4 and the driven belt B5 constituting the deposit conveyance path 5B. The main driving belt B1 and the driven belt B3 in the replenishing conveyance path 20B are arranged with a phase shifted from the main driving belt B4 and the driven belt B5 in the deposit conveyance path 5B. In the arrow view seen from the AA cross section of FIG.10 (b), and the arrow view seen from the BB cross section of FIG.10 (c), it seems that it has arrange | positioned adjacently in parallel. That is, the second rotation surface on which the center line of the main belt B1 of the replenishment conveyance unit 20 rotates is parallel to the first rotation surface on which the center line of the driven belt B5 of the deposit conveyance unit 5 rotates. It is arranged so as to be at a predetermined distance in the vertical direction Y of the rotating surface. The predetermined distance is substantially the belt width in this embodiment. When transferring coins from the replenishment conveyance path 20B to the deposit conveyance path 5B, the sheet metal guide G1 along the replenishment conveyance path 20B so that the coins can be smoothly moved by a predetermined distance in the belt width direction (vertical direction, Y direction). Is provided. Further, when viewed from the belt width direction (vertical direction, Y direction), an extension line of the replenishment conveyance path 20B is an arc formed by a portion where the ring of one annular belt B5 constituting the deposit conveyance path 5B is hung on the pulley P5. In this way, coins can be delivered smoothly. Further, at the time of delivery, the coin comes into contact with one annular belt B4 different from one annular belt B5, and is drawn into the deposit conveyance path 5B by the rotation of these two annular belts B4, B5. In addition, since the guide member of the switching mechanism is not used, there is no coin collision with the guide member, there is no need to periodically replace the contact portion due to wear, and troubles due to coin entry can be suppressed. Further, the angle formed by the deposit conveyance path 5B and the replenishment conveyance path 20B can be 45 degrees or less, but 30 degrees or less is suitable for smoothly transferring coins.

  In the present embodiment, when the replenishment transport unit 20 is driven, the deposit transport unit 5 is also driven, and the switching of each transport unit is monitored by a deposit detector as a sensor provided in the vicinity of the deposit port 3. When the deposit is detected, the driving of the replenishment transport unit 20 is stopped, and the deposited coin is not in the deposit transport unit 5 by the first sensor unit (sensors S11 to S17) in the deposit transport unit 5. After confirming the above, the replenishment conveyance unit 20 is driven again.

  11 and 12 show the detailed flow of coin replenishment processing. Please refer to FIG. 7 and FIG. 9 together. First, a description will be given with reference to FIG. First, replenishment coins are set in the replenishing unit 10 by an attendant (S201) (corresponding to S131). As a general rule, the clerk operates a button provided on the coin processing device 1, a replenishment start signal is input to the control unit 13, and the coin processing device 1 starts the replenishment process according to a command from the control unit 13 (S202). (Equivalent to S132). Note that when the deposit process during the replenishment process is completed, the clerk's operation is omitted, and the process automatically returns to the replenishment process. When the replenishment process is started, the control unit 13 outputs a drive signal to the deposit / replenishment distribution unit 18 of the temporary storage unit 6 (S203). The deposit / replenishment distribution means 18 is operated, and the shutter 56 is set to the replenishment side, so that the temporary storage unit 6 can accept coins to the replenishment side. Next, the control unit 13 starts driving the deposit conveyance unit 5 and monitors the flow of coins by the first sensor unit (sensors S11 to S17 and the like) (S204). That is, the shutter position of the deposit / replenishment distribution unit 18 of the temporary holding unit is determined by an input from a detector (shutter position detection unit; not shown), and a drive signal is output to the deposit transport unit 5. Further, the deposit / distribution transport drive motor M1 of the first transport drive means of the deposit transport unit 5 starts to drive, and the annular belts B4 and B5 constituting the deposit transport paths 5A to 5C rotate. Moreover, the control part 13 starts the monitoring of the flow of coins by the sensors (S11 to S17) appropriately provided in the deposit conveyance paths 5A to 5C of the deposit conveyance section 5. Next, the control unit 13 starts driving the replenishment transport unit 20 (S205). That is, the control unit 13 outputs a drive signal to the replenishment transport unit 20, and the replenishment transport drive motor M2 of the second transport driving unit of the replenishment transport unit 20 starts to drive, and the recirculation transport paths 20A and 20B are configured in an annular shape. The belts B1 to B3 rotate. In addition, the control unit 13 starts monitoring the coin flow by the sensors (S21 to S23) of the second sensor unit that are appropriately provided in the replenishment conveyance paths 20A and 20B of the replenishment conveyance unit 20. Next, the control unit 13 starts driving the discharge mechanism of the replenishment unit 10 (S206). That is, a drive signal is output to the drive mechanism of the release mechanism. Thereby, the coins in the storage unit of the replenishing unit 10 are discharged one by one from the discharge mechanism to the replenishment transport unit 20 (corresponding to S133). Furthermore, the control unit 13 starts monitoring (detecting) whether or not the replenishment unit 10 is in an empty state (a state in which there is no coin) simultaneously with the operation of the discharge mechanism of the replenishment unit 10 (S207). Next, the replenishment coins are discharged / conveyed / sorted (S208). The replenishment coins released from the replenishment hopper of the replenishment unit 10 are conveyed by being sandwiched between the main belt B1 and the driven belt B3 in the replenishment conveyance path 20B of the replenishment conveyance unit 20 (corresponding to S134), and deposited at the junction unit 30. It is transferred to the deposit conveyance path 5B of the conveyance unit 5 (corresponding to S135), is conveyed by being sandwiched between the main belt B4 and the driven belt B5 in the deposit conveyance path 5B, and is further coupled to the main belt B4 in the deposit conveyance path 5C. It is sandwiched between the sheet metals 17 and conveyed, and the authenticating unit 14 recognizes the authenticity of the coin (corresponding to S136), and distributes the money by the distributing unit 15 (corresponding to S137).

  In the vicinity of the delivery portion of the merging portion 30, tension is applied to the main driving belt B1 and the driven belt B3 constituting the replenishing conveyance path 20B by a tension roller (tensions T11 to T21, etc.) as second tension applying means. The main driving belt B4 and the driven belt B5 constituting the deposit conveyance path 5B are given tension by a tension roller as a first tension applying means. Coins can be delivered smoothly and without damage at the junction by the tension by the first tension applying means. That is, when the coins are received by the two annular belts B4 and B5 facing each other and transferred, tension is applied to the annular belt B4 so as to allow the coins to escape, and the guide member of the switching mechanism is not used. There is no collision of coins, the abnormal behavior of coins is suppressed, and troubles due to coin entry and jam occurrence are reduced. Further, there is no need for periodic replacement due to wear of the contact portion of the guide member.

  In the above replenishment operation, the control unit 13 continuously performs deposit monitoring with a deposit detector provided near the deposit port 3 (S211). If there is no deposit during the replenishment process (N in S211), it is confirmed whether the replenishment number becomes a predetermined number (S212). Here, the predetermined number is the full number of the stacker 50 of the stacker unit 7. When the replenishment number reaches the predetermined number, the control unit 13 stops driving the discharge mechanism of the replenishment unit 10 (S214). That is, a stop signal is output to the discharge mechanism of the replenishment unit 10, the discharge mechanism is stopped, and coin discharge is stopped. Further, in the confirmation of the replenishment number (S212), the control unit 13 also determines that the replenishment number does not reach the predetermined number and all the coins in the storage unit of the replenishment unit 10 are discharged and empty detection is detected (S213). The drive of the discharge mechanism of the unit 10 is stopped (S214). The control unit 13 outputs a stop signal to the discharge mechanism of the replenishment unit 10, and the discharge mechanism of the replenishment unit 10 stops. Next, the presence or absence of coins in the replenishment transport unit 20 is confirmed by the sensors (S21 to S23, etc.) of the second sensor unit in the replenishment transport unit 20 (S215). The conveyance at the unit 20 is continued (S216), and the coin is transferred to the deposit conveyance unit 5 at the junction unit 30. If it is determined that the replenishment transport unit 20 detects empty (no coins) (S217), a stop signal is output to the second transport drive means of the replenishment transport unit 20, and the annular belts B1 to B3 of the replenishment transport unit 20 Stops (S218).

  Further, the control unit 13 confirms the presence or absence of coins on the transfer path passed to the deposit transfer path 5B (in the merging unit 30) and the deposit transfer path 5C (in the sorting unit 15 etc.) of the deposit transfer section 5 (S221). . The replenishment coins that have already been transported to the deposit transport paths 5B and 5C are sorted by the sorting unit 15 and replenished to the stacker unit 7 (S222). When it is determined that the coins in the deposit conveyance unit 20 are empty in these deposit conveyance paths 5B and 5C (S223), the control unit 13 outputs a stop signal to the first conveyance drive unit of the deposit conveyance unit 20, The drive of the deposit conveyance part 5 is stopped (S224). This completes the replenishment process.

  Next, a description will be given with reference to FIG. When the deposit monitoring by the deposit detector detects the light shielding due to the coin insertion and detects that there is deposit during the replenishment process (Y in S211), the detection result is output to the control unit 13. The control unit 13 shifts to deposit processing upon detection of coin insertion (S231). First, in order to temporarily stop the replenishment process from the replenishment unit 10, the discharge operation of the discharge mechanism is stopped (S232). Next, the presence / absence of coins in a predetermined range (described later) of the replenishment transport unit 20 is detected by the second sensor unit (sensors S21 to S23, etc.) (S233). If coins are detected within a predetermined range (NO in S233), an operation is performed until the replenishment coins remaining in the deposit conveyance path 5B in the merge section 30 of the deposit conveyance section 20 and the deposit conveyance path 5C in the distribution section 15 are distributed. . In addition, when the empty detection of the coin is confirmed within the predetermined range of the replenishment conveyance unit 20 (YES in S233), the driving of the replenishment conveyance unit 20 is stopped (S234). However, in (S233), it is not necessary for coins to be empty in the entire area of the replenishment conveyance paths 20A and 20B of the replenishment conveyance unit 20, and if there are no remaining coins near the junction 30 of the replenishment conveyance path 20B being monitored. If it can be determined, the replenishment conveyance unit 20 can be stopped. In this determination, the arrangement of the sensor S12 arranged in the deposit conveyance path 5B through which coins are delivered and the sensor S21 arranged in the replenishment conveyance path 20B are arranged in the vicinity of the junction 30 so that this can be estimated. Is assumed. These sensors S <b> 12 and S <b> 21 detect the presence / absence of light projection / light shielding, and output the detection result to the control unit 13.

The sensors near the junction 30 are arranged as follows.
Minimum interval of coin discharge from the replenishment mechanism of the replenishment unit 10 set in advance = A [mm],
Distance (theoretical value) = B [mm] in which the annular belts B1 and B3 constituting the replenishing conveyance path 20B convey coins from the input of the drive stop signal of the replenishing conveyance unit 20
When the interval from the sensor S21 arranged in the replenishment conveyance path 20B to the sensor S12 arranged in the deposit conveyance path 5B of the junction 30 is set to C [mm],
A>B> C.
When the theoretical value B is small, it is possible to input a drive stop signal after taking a certain margin with a timer.

  That is, when the replenishment coin outputs a drive stop signal for the replenishment transport unit 20 immediately after passing through the sensor S21 by setting the distance that the coin is transported from the stop signal shorter than the minimum interval of coin discharge, the replenishment transport path 20B Even if the next replenishment coin remaining in the position does not reach the sensor S21 and is transported to the vicinity thereof, it stops between the sensor S22 and the sensor S21. Further, the coin that has passed the sensor S21 immediately before the driving of the replenishment transport unit 20 is transferred from the replenishment transport path 20B to the deposit transport path 5B of the merge unit 30 until the replenishment transport unit 20 stops, and the sensor S12. Therefore, the process proceeds immediately from the deposit conveyance path 5B of the merging unit 30 to the deposit conveyance path 5C of the distribution unit 15. Therefore, if it can be determined that there is no next coin in the vicinity of the merging portion 30 of the replenishing conveyance path 20B, specifically, a range (predetermined range) from the sensor S12 to C [mm] upstream immediately after the coin passes the sensor S12. A drive stop signal for the transport unit 20 can be output. For this reason, the sensor S22 is arranged C [mm] upstream of the sensor S21, and it is only necessary to confirm that there is no replenishment coin between the sensor S21 and the sensor S22 (predetermined range) of the replenishment conveyance path 20B in (S233).

  As a result, as described above, when there is no coin in the confirmation of the empty detection in the predetermined range of the replenishment conveyance unit 20 (YES in S233), the control unit 13 immediately drives the replenishment conveyance unit 30 to the second A stop signal is output to the conveyance driving means, and the driving of the replenishment conveyance unit 20 is stopped (S234). When coins are found in the confirmation of empty detection in the predetermined range of the replenishment transport unit 20 (NO in S233), the replenishment transport unit is detected when it is detected that there is no coin in the predetermined range of the replenishment transport unit 20. A stop signal is output to the second transport driving means for driving 20 and the driving of the replenishment transport unit 20 is stopped (S234).

  Next, the control unit 13 continues to drive the deposit / distribution transport drive motor M <b> 1, and the replenishment coins remaining in the deposit transport path 5 </ b> B at the junction 30 of the deposit transport unit 5 and the deposit transport path 5 </ b> C at the sort unit 15. Then, confirmation of the presence or absence of coins on the conveyance path (S241), sorting of the coins, replenishment to the stacker unit 7 (S242), and determination of empty detection of replenishment coins in the deposit conveyance unit 5 (S243) are performed. These processes are the same as (S221) to (S223). It should be noted that a margin may be taken after a lapse of a certain time from the output of the driving stop signal of the second transport driving means, and it may be determined that the sky has been detected. Even if the driving of the replenishment transport unit 20 is stopped, the remaining replenishment coins are distributed after reaching the deposit transport path 5B of the confluence unit 30 and the deposit transport path 5C of the sorting unit 15 having different transport drive systems. Is done.

  Next, from the start of the replenishment process (S133), the drive signal to the deposit / replenishment distribution means 18 of the temporary storage unit 6 where the drive output continues is stopped (S251). That is, by stopping the drive signal to the deposit / replenishment distribution unit 18 of the temporary storage unit 6, the shutter 56 of the temporary storage unit's deposit / replenishment distribution unit 18 becomes the deposit side, and the temporary storage unit 6 moves to the deposit side. It is possible to accept coins. Next, the control unit 13 starts driving the feeding motor of the deposit feeding unit 4 (S252). That is, the position of the shutter 56 of the deposit / replenishment distribution unit 18 of the temporary storage unit 6 is determined by an input from a detector (shutter position detection unit), and a drive signal is output to the feeding motor of the deposit feeding unit 4. The feeding motor of the deposit feeding unit 4 starts driving, and coins are fed from the deposit feeding unit 4 one by one. Next, the control unit 13 inputs the count of the detector provided between the deposit feeding unit 4 and the deposit transport unit 5 (S253). In response to the first counting input of the detector, the control unit 13 starts detecting empty in the depositing and feeding unit 4 (S254). The coins fed out from the deposit feeding unit 4 are transferred to the deposit transport unit 5 and sorted and deposited by the sorting unit 15 (S255). When the empty detection of the deposit feeding unit 4 is detected (S256), for example, the control unit 13 receives, for example, the projection of a residual detector (not shown) of the coin storage unit 39 of the deposit feeding unit 4, and the deposit feeding unit 4 Is output to stop the driving of the feeding motor (S257).

  Further, the control unit 13 in the deposit transport unit 5 receives coins fed to the deposit transport path 5A from the deposit feed unit 4 to the merge unit 30, the deposit transport path 5B in the merge unit 30, and the deposit transport path 5C in the distribution unit 15. The presence / absence detection of the coins transferred to the transfer paths 5A to 5C is performed (S261). The coins are transported and distributed until the coins disappear on these transport paths 5A to 5C of the deposit transport unit 5 (S262). When the control unit 13 confirms that there is no coin on the deposit conveyance unit 5 (S263), the replenishment process from the input of the replenishment start signal (S132) to the distribution replenishment (S139) is resumed. Due to the resumed replenishment process, the transport and distribution of the replenishment coins that have been stopped on the replenishment transport path 20A and the replenishment transport path 20B for the deposit process are started, and the replenishment of the replenishment coins from the replenishment unit 10 is resumed. Counts are accumulated. By the second tension applying means (tensions T31 to T33, etc.), in the replenishment conveyance path 20B, the two annular belts B1 and B3 are held by holding a coin between the opposed portions of the two annular belts B1 and B3 when stationary. Tension is applied to the belt so that the two belts B1 and B2 can be held between the opposing portions of the two belts B1 and B2 when the belt is stationary. Apply tension. For this reason, at the time of shifting to the depositing process, the annular belts B1 and B3 and the annular belts B1 and B2 are respectively connected between the belts B1 and B3 and between the belts B1 and B2 in the drive stop of the replenishment conveyance unit 20 (S234) Stop with the coins held and keep holding the coins until the refill process resumes. When the driving of the replenishment transport unit 20 is stopped (S234), some coins on the replenishment transport path 20B stop between the sensor S22 and the sensor S21. Therefore, the coins in the replenishment conveyance path 20B can be immediately transferred to the deposit conveyance path 5B by resuming the replenishment process. In this way, the second tension applying means (tensions T31 to T33, etc.) can be used to hold coins between the belts B1 and B2 and between the belts B1 and B3 even when the belts B1 to B3 are stationary. The driving of the transport unit 20 is started, and the coins can be transferred to the deposit transport unit 5 immediately. In addition, when deposit is detected in the resumed replenishment process, the operation from the shift to the deposit process (S231) is performed.

  According to the present embodiment, since the deposit transport unit 5 and the replenishment transport unit 20 are joined at the merge unit 30, it is a coin processing apparatus capable of processing a plurality of denominations in large quantities, It is possible to provide the coin processing apparatus 1 having a relatively simple configuration of the conveyance path that can be used for both. Further, by using the sensor unit 40 to control the driving of the replenishment transport unit 20 at the start / end of the depositing process, it is possible to provide the coin processing apparatus 1 that can quickly switch between the replenishing process and the depositing process.

In the first embodiment, an example in which the conveyance path 5B of the deposit conveyance section 5 and the conveyance path 20B of the replenishment conveyance section 20 are arranged in parallel and at a predetermined distance is described. An example in which the conveyance path 5B of the conveyance unit 5 and the conveyance path 20B of the replenishment conveyance unit 20 are disposed in the same plane will be described.
FIG. 13 shows an enlarged view of the merging portion 30 in the present embodiment. 13 (a) is an enlarged view at the junction of the conveying means, FIG. 13 (b) is an arrow view seen from the AA cross section, and FIG. 13 (c) is an arrow view seen from the BB cross sectional view. is there. Differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described. The annular belts B1 and B3 of the replenishment conveyance unit 20 viewed from the AA arrow view (FIG. 13B) and the BB arrow view (FIG. 13C) are the same as the annular belt B5 of the deposit conveyance unit 5. It is on the same line (the rotation plane formed by the center line of the annular belt is in the same plane). As a result, coins are delivered on the same line, and the sheet metal guide G1 of the junction 30 does not exist. Instead, the distance between the belts from the belt B1 of the replenishment transport unit 20 to the belt B5 of the deposit transport unit 5 is increased. For this reason, roller guides G3 and G4 are added so that coins do not deviate from the conveyance path. Further, small roller guides G5 to G7 are used so that the deposit conveyance unit 5 and the replenishment conveyance unit 20 can be arranged in the same plane. As a result, the size of the apparatus can be reduced in the belt width direction, but it may become longer in the traveling direction. Further, although the sheet metal guide G1 is not necessary, since the distance between the belts related to the transfer of coins becomes long, the reliability of the transfer may be lowered. Other apparatus configurations and processing flows are the same as those in the first embodiment. As in the first embodiment, the coin processing apparatus can process a plurality of denominations in large quantities, and can be used for both deposit processing and replenishment processing. It is possible to provide a coin processing device having a relatively simple path. Further, it is possible to provide a coin processing device that can quickly switch between replenishment processing and deposit processing.

  Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and it is obvious that various modifications can be made to the embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention. .

  For example, in the above embodiment, the coin processing apparatus has been described. However, the present invention is also incorporated into a vending machine, an automatic ticket vending machine, etc., in which the coin processing apparatus is traded and used alone. It is also applicable to those that are traded and used. In the above embodiment, the example in which the deposit conveyance unit has three deposit conveyance paths and the replenishment conveyance unit has two replenishment conveyance paths has been described, but any number depending on the positioning and distance of each conveyance path Combinations of these are possible. Further, the example has been described in which the deposit conveyance path 5A conveys coins between the annular belt and the roller, but some may convey the coins between the belts facing each other, and some of the belt and the surface may be conveyed. A thing which conveys a coin between smooth sheet metal may be used. Moreover, although the example in which the distribution part has the hole of the size of a money type was demonstrated, you may have a distribution claw. In addition, the detection of the presence or absence of coins in the deposit conveyance unit 5 is preferable to detect the entire deposit conveyance unit in order to increase the avoidance of coin collision in the junction unit, but for example, between the deposit feeding unit and the junction unit Even if it is limited to a part of the conveyance path, it is possible to avoid the collision of coins at the junction. In addition, when the distance B in which the belt conveys coins from the input of the drive stop signal of the replenishment transport unit is small with respect to the sensor arrangement in the vicinity of the junction, the drive stop signal is input after taking a certain margin with a timer. It is also possible. In addition, the number of temporary holding chambers, the number of holes in the sorting section, etc. can be changed according to the details of each processing flow and the number of denominations, and the number and arrangement of drive motors, pulleys, tension rollers, roller guides, and sensors. Etc. can be appropriately changed.

  The present invention can be used for a coin processing device such as a vending machine or an automatic ticket vending machine.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Coin processing apparatus 2 Apparatus main body 3 Deposit port 4 Deposit delivery part 5 Deposit conveyance part 5A-5C Deposit conveyance path 6 Temporary storage part 7 Stacker part 8 Discharge conveyance part 9 Discharge port 10 Replenishment part 11 Safe part 12 Replenishment rejection store 13 Control unit 14 Identification unit 15 Distribution unit 16 Rejection unit 17 Distribution plate (sheet metal)
18 Deposit / Replenishment Distributing Means 19 Temporary Reservation Chamber 20 Replenishment Conveying Sections 20A, 20B Replenishment Conveying Path 21 Shutter Mechanisms 22, 22 ₁ , 22 ₂ Shutter 23 Partition Plate 27 Rotating Shaft 28 Inner Wall Surface 30 Converging Section 40 Sensor Unit 50 Stacker 51 Upper chute 56 Shutter 57 Rotating shaft B1 to B5 Annular belt C1 to C5 Coin G1 Sheet metal guides G2 to G7 Roller guides L1 to L7 Coin flow L8 Signal flow M1 Deposit / distribution conveyance drive motor M2 Supplementary conveyance drive motor P1 P15 Pulleys S11 to S17, S21 to S23 Sensors T11 to T21, T31 to T33 Tension

Claims (6)

A first transport unit having a first transport path for transporting the coins, with the coins sandwiched between opposing portions of the two annular belts;
A second transport path for transporting coins by sandwiching coins between opposing portions of two annular belts different from the two annular belts, the second transport path joining the first transport path at a junction. A second transport unit having two transport paths;
In the merging portion, one or two of the first conveyance path is configured with respect to the first rotation surface on which the center line of the one or two annular belts configuring the first conveyance path rotates. the second surface of revolution is parallel to the rotating center line of the circular belt, it is disposed so as to position a predetermined distance away in the vertical direction of the first surface of revolution;
One of the first transport unit and the second transport unit is a deposit transport unit having a transport path for transporting the received coins between the opposing portions of the two annular belts, The other is a replenishment transport unit having a transport path for transporting the coins taken out from the replenishment unit between the opposing portions of the two annular belts;
Coin processing device. When transferring coins from the second transport path to the first transport path at the junction, the coins are moved along the second transport path so as to move the predetermined distance in the vertical direction. A guide is provided;
The coin processing apparatus according to claim 1. An extension line of the second conveyance path is disposed at the junction portion so as to contact a curved portion formed by a ring of one annular belt constituting the first conveyance path when viewed from the vertical direction;
An angle formed by the first transport path and the second transport path is 30 degrees or less;
The coin processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2. When transferring coins from the second conveyance path to the first conveyance path at the junction, the coin is different from one annular belt constituting the first conveyance path, and another one annular belt. And is drawn into the first conveyance path by rotation of two annular belts constituting the first conveyance path;
The first transport unit is configured to transport coins between the opposing portions of the two annular belts, and from the second transport path to the first transport path at the junction. First tension applying means for applying tension to at least the other annular belt of the two annular belts so as to allow the coins to escape when the coin is delivered;
The coin processing apparatus according to claim 3. At least one of the two annular belts constituting the first conveyance path and at least one of the two annular belts constituting the second conveyance path are driven independently of each other;
The coin processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. A control unit for controlling driving of the deposit conveyance unit and the replenishment conveyance unit;
A sensor unit that detects that a coin has been deposited and whether or not the deposited coin is present in the deposit conveyance unit;
In the replenishment process for driving both the deposit conveyance unit and the replenishment conveyance unit, when the sensor unit detects that a coin has been deposited, the control unit stops driving the replenishment conveyance unit, and the sensor unit When the control unit detects that the deposited coin is lost from the deposit conveyance unit, the control unit resumes driving the replenishment conveyance unit;
The replenishment transport unit is configured to have a transport path for transporting coins in a direction having a vertical component, and applies tension to at least one of the two annular belts constituting the transport path so as to form the two annular belts. Second tensioning means for allowing the belt to hold a coin between the opposing portions of the two annular belts when stationary;
The coin processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 .

Images