US3677461A

US3677461A - Security device

Info

Publication number: US3677461A
Application number: US57699A
Authority: US
Inventors: Robert M Nitschneider; Charles G Neumann; Harvey R Krueger
Original assignee: Reynolds Products Inc
Current assignee: HONOR GARD OF ILLINOIS Inc A CORP OF ILLINOIS; Reynolds Products Inc
Priority date: 1970-07-23
Filing date: 1970-07-23
Publication date: 1972-07-18
Anticipated expiration: 1989-07-18

Abstract

An input conduit is attached to the outlet of a coin-processing mechanism and an output conduit is attached to the inlet of a coin container. The conduits are respectively provided with gates which are opened when the conduits are united to provide a passageway for coins to pass from the coin-processing mechanism to the coin container, and which are closed when the conduits are separated, to prevent withdrawal of coins from the coin container and the coin-processing mechanism.

Description

O United States Patent [151 3,677,461 Nitschneider et al. 1 July 18, 1972 [54] SECURITY DEVICE 1,983,089 12/1934 72 Inventors: Robert M. Nitsehnelder, Cary; Charles G. giggifi 5x328 Neumnnn, lfalatine; Harvey R. Krueger, 2:546:498 3/195] Carpentelsvllle, all of II]. 3,033,442 5/1962 [73] Assignee: Reynoltk Products Inc., Schaumburg, ll]. 3,|08,74l 10/1963 [22] Filed: July 1970 Primary Examiner-Francis K. Zugel [21] APPL No; 57,699 Attorney-Shenier8zO'Connor S CI 232 5 2 3 2 [57] ABS CT U. l 32 4 Int. Cl. I Gong/06 An Input condult 15 attached to the outlet of a com-processing [58] Field ofSearch ..232/15 16 43.2 31 32 mechanism and is mached inlet coin container. The conduits are respectively provided with 56] References Cited gates which are opened when the conduits are united to provide a passageway for coins to pass from the coin-processing UNITED STATES PATENTS mechanism to the coin container, and which are closed when the conduits are separated, to prevent withdrawal of coins 467,146 1/1892 Beasley ..232/ l 6 f the coin container and the coimprocessing mechanism 917,256 4/1909 Cox ...232/l5 1,062,] 34 5/19l3 Woods ..232/l5 7 Clairm, 25 Drawing figures Patented July 18, 1912 3,677,461:

6 Sheets-Sheet 1 Fm. 1 FIG,

Charles GJ/cumann ,ruey E. Bruegel Patented July 18, 1972 3,677,46

6 Sheets-Sheet 2 FIG, 5

Patented v July 18 1972 I e Sheets-Sheet a FIG. 7

as 57 35' z Patented July 18, 1972 6 Sheets-Sheet 4 5 d 9 0 1; a 2 M l 5 w n 9 0 we I 'vl L M Patented July 18, 19 72 3,617,461

6 Sheets-Sheet 6 processing mechanism by individuals who collect the money deposited therein.

Another object is to provide a security device which includes a pair of conduits respectively attached to a coinprocessing mechanism and a coin container, and a pair of gates respectively in the conduits, which are opened when the conduits are united, to allow coins to drop into the container, and which are closed when the conduits are separated to prevent pilfering from the coin-processing mechanism and from the coin container.

Still another object is to provide a security device which enables the individual who collects coins from vending machines to collect locked, money-filled containers for delivery to a central headquarters.

In connection with the foregoing object, another object is to provide a key which enables the containers to be opened for removal of the money therein.

Yet another object is to provide a security device for interconnecting a coin container to the coin-processing mechanism of a vending machine, which permits the individual collector to remove a locked, money-filled container and to replace it with a locked, empty container.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a security device which will prevent pilfering from vending machines, which is so constructed that it may be mounted into presentlyexisting machines.

Still another object is to provide a security device which includes a pair of conduits for interconnecting the coin container to the coin-processing mechanism, which conduits respectively have therein a pair of gates that are automatically released when united and are then opened by use of a key car- .ried by the individual who collects the coins.

Yet another object is to provide the security device with a switch, which switch de-energizes the coin-processing mechanism when the gates are closed, thereby causing coins deposited in the coin-processing mechanism to pass out of the coin return.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a security device having a pair of gated circuits for respective attachment to the coin-processing mechanism and the coin container, there being provided a locking arrangement for snapfitting the coin container onto its associated conduit and accommodating removal therefrom only by opening the associated gate for insertion of a releasing tool into the locking arrangement.

In summary, there is provided a security device for use with a coin container and a coin-processing mechanism, the security device comprising an output conduit for attachment to the coin container in registry with the inlet thereof, a first gate mounted in the output conduit and having open and closed positions for respectively unblocking and blocking the output conduit, an input conduit for attachment to the coinprocessing mechanism in registry with the outlet thereof, a second gate mounted in the input conduit and having open .and closed positions for respectively unblocking and blocking the input conduit, and a locking arrangement on the conduits and on the gates and having a first condition when the conduits are united wherein the gates are in the open positions thereof to afford a passageway for coins to pass from the coinprocessing mechanism to the coin container, the locking arrangement having a second condition when the conduits are separated wherein the gates are in the closed positions thereof to prevent withdrawal of coins from the coin container and the coin-processing mechanism.

Further features of the invention pertain to the particular arrangement of the parts, whereby the above-outlined and additional operating features thereof are obtained.

The invention, both as to its organization and method of operation, together with further objects and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following specification taken in connection with the accompanying drawings,'in which:

FIG. I is an elevational view of a coin-processing mechanism shown in phantom, a coin container and a security device interconnecting the coin-processing mechanism and the coin container, which security device incorporates therein features of the present invention;

FIG. 2 shows the same elements as shown in FIG. 1, except that the conduits or housings which comprise the security device are in their separated condition;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view on an enlarged scale of the coin container and the lower housing affixed thereto, and representing the article brought by the individual coin collector back to his central headquarters;

FIG. 4 is a side elevational view on a further enlarged scale of the lower housing and a fragmentary portion of the container attached thereto;

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the lower housing taken along the lines 5-5 of FIG. 4 with the gate-releasing key inserted therein;

FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the upper housing;

FIG. 7 is a view in vertical cross section of the upper housing, showing the gate therein in its closed position;

FIG. 8 is a view in horizontal cross section of the upper housing with the gate therein in its closed position, taken along the lines 8-8 of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a bottom plan view of the upper housing, showing the gate therein in its closed position, taken along the lines 9- 9 of FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a fragmentary view in horizontal section on an enlarged scale of the upper housing, taken along the lines 10- 10 of FIG. 7, certain of the tumblers and springs being omitted to show the housing construction;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of one of the tumblers in the locking mechanism in the upper housing;

FIG. 12 is a view in vertical section of the lower housing, showing the gate therein in its closed position, and a view in vertical section of the coin container, a portion thereof being broken away;

FIG. 13 is a bottom plan view of the lower housing with the gate therein in its closed position, taken along the lines 13-13 of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is a top plan view of the coin container, showing features of the locking arrangement thereon, and taken along the lines 14-14 of FIG. 12;

FIG. 15 is a fragmentary view in horizontal cross section, on an enlarged scale, taken along the lines 15-15 of FIG. 12 with certain of the springs and tumblers omitted to show the housing construction;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of one of the tumblers forming a part of the locking mechanism in the lower housing;

FIG. 17 is an enlarged view in vertical section of a portion of the upper housing, showing one of the tumblers which form part of the locking mechanism and a portion of the gate in its open position;

FIG. 18 is a view in horizontal section through the upper housing taken along the lines 18-18 of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is an enlarged view in vertical section of a portion of the upper housing, showing one of the tumblers which form part of the locking mechanism and a portion of the gate in its closed condition;

FIG. 20 is a view in horizontal section through the upper housing, taken along the lines 20-20 of FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is an enlarged view in vertical section of a portion of the lower housing, showing one of the tumblers which forms part of the locking mechanism and a portion of the gate in its open condition;

FIG. 22 is a top plan view, taken along the lines 22-22 of FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is an enlarged view in vertical section of a portion of the lowe housing, showing one of the tumblers which form part of the locking mechanism and a portion of the gate in its closed condition;

FIG. 24 is a top plan view, taken along the lines 24-24 of FIG. 23; and

FIG. 25 is a view in vertical section, on a greatly-enlarged scale, through the housings and container in the condition shown in FIG. 1, the gates being open to afford a passageway for coins to travel from the coin-processing mechanism into the container.

Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIGS. l-3 thereof, there is shown in phantom a coinprocessing mechanism 30, for use in a vending machine such as a drink dispenser, a juke box, a car wash, a laundermat, etc. The mechanism 30 is operated by electrical circuitry and motors (not shown) which, in conjunction with other well-known elements, analyze the coin deposited into a chute 31, to determine whether it is of the proper denomination, whether it is a slug, etc. The coin-processing mechanism 30 may be constructed to furnish change to a return outlet 34 if the coin deposited is of larger denomination than necessary. The money, after passing through various testing stages, will be discharged through a coin outlet 33 which, in the embodiment shown, is located in the lower right-hand corner. Slugs will be rejected by the coin-processing mechanism 30 and will be returned through the return outlet 34 when a lever 32 is depressed. There is also provided a lever 32 which, when depressed by a user, will discharge deposited coins on some mechanisms 30 through the return outlet 34. If the coinprocessing mechanism 30 does not receive electrical power, any and all coins dropped in the chute 31 will automatically be returned through the return outlet 34. Since the coinprocessing mechanism 30 is of standard construction, further details thereof will not be explained.

The coins deposited in the chute 31 and not rejected by the coin-processing mechanism 30 are discharged through the outlet 33 into a bag or container 230. In the past, the container 230 was placed directly under the mechanism 30, so that coins would drop directly thereinto. A person periodically would collect the money in the container 230 by removing the container and shaking it into a bag that he carries. He would then drop off his collections at some central location set up for that purpose. It has been found that certain dishonest collectors pilfer some of the money. Such a practice carried on for the many machines to which the coin collector goes can result, and has resulted, in substantial losses to vending machine operating companies. To overcome this practice, there has been provided a security device 35 which is mounted to the coin outlet of the coin-processing mechanism 30, and to the container 230, so as to provide a passageway for coins therebetween. The security device 35 includes a pair of conduits or

housings

40 and 140 respectively attached to the coinprocessing mechanism 30. The

housings

40 and 140 respectively have gates therein which can be opened by use of an actuator mechanism 120 only when the

housings

40 and 140 are united. Coins will drop from the outlet of the coin-processing mechanism 30 through the passageway formed through the

housings

40 and 140 and into the container 230. The gates are closed by operating the actuator mechanism 120 whereupon the

housings

40 and 140 may be separated, as shown in FIG. 2. The coin collector removes the unit consisting of the moneyfilled container 230 and the housing 140 and replaces it with a similar unit, but with an empty container 230. The gates in each of the

housings

40 and 140 are locked so as to prevent the collector from pilfering any money.

Referring now to FIGS. 6-10, the details of construction of the upper housing 40 will be described. The housing 40 has a substantially-square outline and is formed of four

mutuallyperpendicular side walls

41, 43, 46, and 48. Respectively formed on the lower end of the

walls

41 and 43 are

inwardlydirected lips

42 and 44. The lower end of the side wall 46 is cut out at 47 for receiving a correspondingly-shaped element in the lower housing 140, as will be hereinafter described. There is provided a top wall 49 having formed therein a rectangular switch-receiving opening 50 and an L-shaped chute 52. Coins from the outlet 33 of the coin-processing mechanism 30 drop into the chute, as will be explained in more detail hereinafter. There is also provided in the top wall 49 a pair of mounting holes 51. Formed on the interior of the housing 40 and preferably integral therewith, is a body 60 cut out at 61, which cutout 61 defines a space within which the associated gate may pivot. The body 60 is formed with a pair of raised pillow blocks 62 respectively having therein longitudinally-aligned semi-cylindrical grooves 64. A set of five tumbler guideways 66 (FIG. 10) is formed in the body 60, there also being formed therein a corresponding number of springcontaining chambers 67 which respectively communicate with the guideways 66.

Slidably disposed in each chamber is a tumbler 70, the details of construction of which is best shown in FIG. 11. The tumbler 70 is generally rectangular in shape and includes at one end thereof a pair of inwardly-extending slots 71 defining therebetween a finger 72. In one of the long sides of the tumbler 70 is a keyway 73, the left-hand end of which keyway (as viewed in FIG. 11) defines an engagement edge 74. The other short side of the tumbler 70 has formed in the bottom end thereof, a depending tab 75. There are five tumblers 70 located in the housing 40, the tumblers differing from one another by the distance between the tab 75 and the edge 74. The tumblers 70 are disposed in the guideways 66 and the adjoining chambers 67 with the finger 72 being directed toward the wall 43. Disposed in each chamber 67 is a spring 76, one end of which bears against the inside surface of the wall 43 and the other end of which is disposed within the slots 71 of the associated tumbler 70. As can be seen, the tumblers 70 are adapted to reciprocate within the guideways 66 in accordance with the undulations in a key inserted in the keyways 73.

The housing 40 is also provided with an elongated bar-like cover having a plurality of projections 81, the spaces between the projections 81 defining tumbler guideways. Formed near one end of the cover 80 is an abutment 83. Formed in the upper side of the cover 80 is a longitudinallyextending tongue 84, there being provided a vertically-aligned tongue 86 on an upwardly offset lug 85. The cover 80 is secured to the body 60 by means of screws 87, such that the guideways on the cover 80 are aligned with the guideways 66 in the body 60. As will be explained, a key is insertable in the space between the main length of the cover 80 and the lug until the wall 149 strikes the wall 48, such insertion serving to reciprocate the tumblers 70 according to a pre-established pattern.

Also mounted in the housing 40 is a U-shaped cover 90 having a set of projections 91, the spaces between said projections defining tumbler guideways. The cover 90 includes a pair of attachment fingers 93 which are attached to the body 60 and the pillow blocks 62, by means of screws 95. When so mounted, the guideways between the projections 91 in the U- shaped cover 90 are aligned with the guideways between the projections 81 on the cover 80 and the guideways 66 in the body 60. The tumblers 70 reciprocate within these mutuallyaligned guideways. Respectively formed on the upper side of the fingers 93 are aligned semicylindrical grooves 94 which are in registry with the semicylindrical grooves 64 in the pillow blocks 62, thereby defining cylindrical openings for pivotally mounting a gate, as will be described. Finally, the U-shaped cover 90 has a downwardly-depending mounting flange 96 on which is mounted a key member 100. The key member 100 has an attachment flange 101 which is secured to the mounting flange of the cover 80 by means of screws 102. As shown in FIG. 9, the key member 100 includes a key 103 composed of alternating peaks 104 and indentations 105, and has respectively formed on the sides thereof vertically-aligned grooves 106.

There is also provided a gate having protruding outwardly therefrom a pair of pins 111, which pins are disposed in the aligned semicylindrical grooves 64 and 94 so as pivotally to mount the gate 110. Formed on the upper side of the gate 110 is a shoulder 112 against which the tumblers 70 abut, as will be explained in more detail hereinafter. As shown in FIGS. 17 to 20, the gate 110 has extending therefrom a set of tabs 114 shaped to define L-shaped slots therebetween, each L-shaped slot consistingof an outer narrow space 115 and an inner wide space 116. When the gate 110 is in position in its.

housing 40 such that the pins 111 are located in their semicylindrical grooves 64 and 94, the narrow spaces 115 are respectively aligned with the guideways 66 in the body 60, the guideways between the projections 81 in the cover 80 and the. guideways between the projections 91 in the cover 90, whereby the tumblers 70 are free to reciprocate in the aforementioned guideways and in the narrow spaces 115. The

springs 76 urge the tumblers 70 away from the side wall 43 and cause the tabs 75 to abut against the shoulder 112. The bottom edges respectively of the tabs 75 contact the engagement surface 113, thereby to preclude pivotal movement of the gate 110. When the tumblers 70 are in this first condition, the gate 110 is locked in its closed position. By judicious movement of the tumblers 70, the tabs 75 thereof may be moved toward the side wall 43 and so positioned as to be aligned with the wide spaces 116 in the gate 110. When the tumblers 70 are in this second condition, the gate 110 is released so that it may, by a further operation, be opened. The manner in which the tumblers 70 move will be explained in more detail subsequently. Formed on the outer end of the gate 110 is a downwardly depending elongated projection 117, the outer ends of the sides of the gate 110 being tapered as shown at 1 18.

Mounted on the housing 40 is an actuator mechanism 120 including a lock 121 which may be of a standard cabinet variety. The lock carries a plate-like arm 122 having in the free end thereof a slot 123 which receives a portion of the gate 110. A key 124 may be inserted in the lock and turned, assuming the tumblers are in their release position, which turning of the key serves to pivot the gate 110 to open the same.

Finally, there is provided an L-shaped bracket 130 secured to the top wall 49 with one leg thereof depending into the opening 50. Secured to the bracket 130 is a switch 131 having wires 132 extending therefrom and connected to the electrical circuitry in the coin-processing mechanism 30. The switch 131 carries a leaf spring 133 which operates an actuator 134. The leaf spring 133 is spring-biased downwardly, whereby the switch 131 is opened when the gate 110 is open and is closed when the gate 110 is closed. When the switch 131 is closed, the electrical circuitry associated with the coin-processing mechanism 30 is deactivated so that coins deposited in the coin chute 31 will automatically pass out of the return outlet 34. On the other hand, when the gate 110 is open, the leaf spring 133 returns to its at rest" condition, thereby opening the switch 131 and causing energization of the electrical circuitry. In that condition, coins deposited in the coinprocessing mechanism 30 will be analyzed as previously explained, and if the coins are of the proper denomination, they will pass out of the coin outlet 33 and into the security device 35.

The upper housing 40 is mounted to the coin-processing mechanism 30, such that the coin chute 52 is aligned with the outlet 33 of the coin-processing mechanism 30. The L-shaped configuration of the chute 52 lends versatility to the security device 35, enabling it to be attached in such a manner that the lock 121 faces the front, as shown in FIG. 1, or the side. Attachment of the housing 40 is effected by two screws passing through the mounting holes 51 in the housing 40 and into the coin-processing mechanism 30. It is to be understood that, in accordance with a most important feature of the present invention, the security device 35 is so constructed as to be usable with most coin-processing mechanisms with very slight modification thereto. By tapping two holes in the coinprocessing mechanism 30 for receiving screws through the holes 51, the security device 35 may be installed on virtually any coin-processing mechanism.

Referring now to FIGS. 4, 5 and 12 to 15, the details of construction of the lower housing 140 and the parts associated therewith will be described. The housing 140 has essentially a square outline and includes a set of four mutually-

perpendicular side walls

141, 144, 149 and 156. Formed in the upper end of the side wall 141 is a channel 142, and on the wall 144 there is formed an elongated, relatively-thin groove 145. An inwardly-offset portion 146 is disposed on top of the side wall 144 and is separated therefrom by an elongated channel 147. The side wall 149 has in the upper right-hand corner thereof, an L-shaped keyway opening 154 which communicates with a keyway 155 (FIG. 5). Formed as an upwardly-directed extension of the side wall 156 is an end plate 157 which has a shape to correspond to the cutout 47 in the side wall 46 of the upper housing 40. As can best be seen in FIG. 12, the housing 140 includes a shelf 160 extending around a chute 161. A portion of the housing spaced from the wall 144 is cutout at 162 to accommodate pivotal movement of the gate disposed therein, there being provided a vertically-extending wall 163 disposed between the chute 161 and the cutout 162. Formed in the cutout 162 is a set of five laterally-spaced apart tumbler guideways 165. Also formed in the housing 140 adjacent the wall 144 is a set of five spring chambers 166 respectively con necting with the guideways 165. Formed on the interior of the side wall 141 is a projection 167 which consists of an engagement surface 168 which is normal to the wall and a sloping camming surface 169, which projection faces the slot 145 in the side wall 144.

Slidably disposed in each chamber 166 is a tumbler 170, the details of construction of which are best shown in FIG. 16. The tumbler 170 is generally rectangular in shape and includes therein a pair of longitudinally-extending slots 171 defining therebetween a finger 172. In one of the long sides of the tumbler 170 is a keyway 173, the left-hand end thereof, as viewed in FIG. 16, defining an engagement edge 174. The other long side of a tumbler 170 has fonned therein a depending tab 175. There are five such tumblers 170 in the embodiment shown, the tumblers differing from one another by the distance between the tab 175 and the engagement edge 174. The tumblers 170 are disposed in the guideways 165 and the adjoining chambers 166 with the finger 172 being directed toward the wall 144. Disposed in each chamber 166 is a spring 176, one end of which bears against the inside surface of the wall 144 and the other end of which is disposed within the slots 171 of the associated tumbler 170. As may be seen, the tumblers 170 are adapted to reciprocate within the guideways 165 in accordance with the undulations in a key inserted in the keyways 173.

The housing 140 is provided with a U-shaped cover having a set of projections 181, the spaces between said projections defining tumbler guideways. The cover 180 also includes a pair of attachment fingers 183 which are attached to Y the housing 140 by means of screws 185. When so mounted,

the guideways between the projections 181 in the U-shaped cover 180 are aligned with the guideways 165 in the housing 140, the tumblers 170 being reciprocable within these mutually-aligned guideways. Respectively formed on the lower side of the fingers 183 are semicylindrical grooves which are in registry with corresponding semicylindrical grooves in the housing 140, thereby defining cylindrical openings for pivotally mounting a gate, as will be described.

There is provided a key member which has an attachment flange 191 secured to the inwardly-ofi'set portion 146 of the housing 140 by means of screws 193. The key member 190 includes a key 194 composed of alternating peaks 195 and indentations 196, the key 194 also being provided with longitudinally-extending grooves 197.

The security device 35 also includes a gate 200 having protruding outwardly therefrom pins 201, which pins are disposed in the aligned semicylindrical grooves in the housing 140 and in the cover 180 so as pivotally to mount the gate 200. As is best shown in FIG. 13, a spring 202 is provided, the outer end of the spring 202 bearing against the wall 163 of the housing 140 and the inner end of the spring 202 bearing against the gate 200, whereby the gate 200 is spring-biased toward the closed position thereof. Formed on the gate 200, near one side thereof, is a plurality of spaced projections, each having a shoulder 203 against which the tumblers 170 abut, as will be explained in more detail subsequently. Respectively extending outwardly from the projections are tabs 204 shaped to define T shaped slots therebetween, each T-shaped slot consisting of a narrow space 205 and a wide space 206. The gate 200 is positioned in its housing 140 with the pins 201 being located respectively in their semicylindrical grooves. The narrow spaces 205 are then respectively aligned with the guideways 165 in the housing 140 and with the guideways between the projections 181 in the cover 180, the tumblers 170 being free to reciprocate in the aforementioned guideways and in the narrow spaces 205. The springs 176 urge the tumblers 170 away from the side wall 144, causing the opposite ends thereof to abut against the vertical wall 163 in the housing 140. The bottom edges of the tabs 175 contact the engagement surfaces 207 on the tabs 204, thereby to preclude pivotal movement of the gate 200. When the tumblers 170 are in this first condition, the gate 200 is locked in its closed position. By judicious movement of the tumblers 170 away from the wall 163 and toward the wall 144, the tabs 175 may be positioned so as to be aligned with the wide spaces 206 in the gate 200. When the tumblers 170 are in this second condition, the gate 200 is released so that it may, by further operation, be opened. The manner in which the tumblers 170 move will be explained in more detail subsequently.

Referring to FIGS. 21 and 23, there is formed on the gate 200 a depending wall 208 which carries a plurality of spaced arcuate abutments 209. The spaces between the abutments 209 are aligned with the guideways 66 in the housing 140, the guideways between the projections 181 in the cover 180 and the narrow spaces 205 between the tabs 204. Thus, when the gate 200 is pivoted, the spaces between adjacent abutments 209 will respectively receive the tumblers 170. When the tumblers 170 are positioned such that the tabs 175 are aligned with the wide spaces 206 to allow the gate 200 to be pivoted, the abutments 209 prevent withdrawal of the key. This occurs because the arcuate abutments 209 prevent the tumblers 170 from reciprocating back toward the wall 144. However, when the gate 200 is closed, the arcuate abutments 209 do not block the reciprocating movement of the tumblers 170, whereby the key inserted in the keyway 155 may be removed. Thus, once a key is inserted in the keyway 155, the key can be withdrawn only when the gate 200 is closed. As is best seen in FIGS. 19 and 20, when the gate 110 is closed, the tumblers 70 are urged by the springs away from the side wall 43 to cause the tabs 75 to abut against the shoulder 112 on the gate 110. Thus, the gate 110 is locked in its closed position. Similarly, as can be seen in FIGS. 23 and 24, the springs 176 cause the tabs 175 respectively on the tumblers 170 to contact the engagement surfaces 207 on the gate 200 so as to preclude pivotal movement thereof and thereby lock the gate 200 in its closed position.

Interconnection of the

housings

40 and 140, as shown in FIG. 25, is effected by aligning the channel 142 on the side wall 141 of the housing 140 with the lip 42 on the wall 41 of the housing 40; aligning the channel 147 on the wall 144 ofthe housing 140 with the lip 44 on the wall 43 of the housing 40; and aligning the inwardly-ofi'set portion 146 on the housing 140 with the cutout 47 in the wall 46 of the housing 40. The housing 140 is then slid into place so that the lip 42 is located in the channel 142; the lip 44 is located in the channel 147; the inwardly-offset portion 146 is located within the housing 40; and the end plate 157 closes the cutout 47. The key 194 will pass through the space between the main body 80a of the cover 80 and the lug 85, with the grooves 197 on the key 194 respectively receiving the tongues 84 and 86. As the housing 140 is slid into place, the tongues 84 and 86 and the grooves 197 guide the key 194 until the wall 149 strikes the wall 48. During movement of the key 194, the peaks 195 thereof move the tumblers 70 against the action of the springs 76 toward the wall 43. It will be noted that the key 194 has five indentations 196 of varying lateral distances from the grooves 197. As can be seen in FIGS. 17 and 18, the distances are so selected with respect to the construction of the tumblers 70 that, when the latter respectively come to rest in the indentations 196 by striking the abutment 83, the tabs 75 respectively on the tumblers 70 will be aligned with the wide spaces 116 in the gate 110. The gate 110 is thus released and it may, by a further operation, be opened. It should, of course, be clear that the key 194 must be constructed for the particularly tumblers 70 being employed, and tumblers of difierent construction and/or relative location would require a key of a different construction to release the same.

Sliding the housing 140 into place also simultaneously causes the key 103 to enter the keyway opening 154 and to pass through the keyway 155, with the grooves 106 on the key 103 respectively receiving the tongues 154a. As the housing 140 is slid into place, the tongues 154a and the grooves 106 guide the key 103, and the peaks 104 thereof move the tumblers 170 against the action of the springs 176 toward the wall 144. It will be noted that the key 103 has five indentations 105 of varying lateral distances from the grooves 106. As is best seen in FIGS. 21 and 22, the distances are so selected with respect to the construction of the tumblers 170 that, when the latter respectively come to rest in the indentations 105, the tabs 175 respectively on the tumblers 170 will be aligned with the wide spaces 206 in the gate 200. The gate 200 is thus released, and it may, by a further operation, be opened. It should, of course, be clear that the key 103 is constructed for the particular tumblers 170 being employed, and tumblers of a different construction and/or location would require a key of a different construction to release the same. There is provided a separate key 187 which has a construction exactly like that of the key 103, whereby insertion of the key 187 releases the gate 200 to enable opening thereof without uniting the

housings

40 and 140.

With the

housings

40 and 140 united, both gates and 200 have been released from their respective locked conditions. However, the gate 110 is retained in its closed position by the actuator mechanism 120, and the gate 200 is retained in its closed position by the spring 202. The key 124 may then be inserted into the lock 121 of the actuator mechanism and turned clockwise, as viewed in FIG. 1, to pivot the gate 110 about its pins 111. The outer end of the gate 110 passes into the chute 161 of the housing 140, it being noted that the tapered sides 118 conform substantially to the inclined walls of the chute 161. The depending projection 117 on the end of the gate 110 strikes the gate 200, whereby continued turning of the key 124 simultaneously pivots the gate 200 against the action of the spring 202. When the

gates

110 and 200 have been thus placed in their open positions, the key 124 may be removed, thereby locking the gates open. Separation of the housings 40 and is precluded because a portion of the gate 110 is disposed within and beyond the chute 161. To separate the

housings

40 and 140, the key 124 is inserted in the lock 121 and is rotated in the opposite direction, counterclockwise as viewed in FIG. 1, to carry the gate 110 to its closed position. The gate 200 automatically returns to its closed position by virtue of the spring-bias thereon. With the

gates

110 and 200 thus placed in their closed positions, the

housings

40 and 140 may be separated.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 to 3, and 6, the details of construction of the container 230 and the manner in which it is affixed to the lower housing 140 will be described. The container 230, in the particular form shown, is formed of heavyduty duck and includes a pair of trapezoidally-shaped sides 231. There is provided a rectangular-shaped frame 240, the construction of which is shown in FIGS. 12 and 14, the frame 240 including two side members 241 and two end members 242. Formed on one of the end members 242 is a projection 243, having a flat engagement surface 244 thereon. The opposite ends of the side members 241 and the opposite end member 242 are cut out at 245 to form a recess for slidably receiving a locking member 246. The locking member 246 includes a camming surface 247 and a flat engagement surface 248. Mounted between the ends of the locking member 246 and the adjacent ends of the side members 241 are springs 249 which spring-bias the locking member 246 outwardly and away from the other end member 242. The locking member 246 has in the top thereof a slot 250 for receiving a tool to slide the locking member against the spring-bias and toward the opposite end member 242. There is provided a pair of retaining members 251 having lips 252 on the corresponding ends thereof, which lips 252 hold the locking member 246 within the cutout 245. The retaining members 251 are secured respectively to the side members 241 by means of rivets 253. The frame 240 is so positioned that the lower portions of the side members 241 and the end members 242 are located within the rectangular opening of the container 230. A strap 254 is wrapped around the outside of the container 230 adjacent said opening, and secures the frame 240 thereto by means of rivets 255 passing through the strap 254, the container 230, and the frame 240.

To mount the container 230 to the lowe housing 140, the frame 240 is inclined to enable placement of the projection 243 in the groove 145 in the housing side wall 144. The container 230 is then pivoted until the camming surface 247 on the locking member 246 engages the camming surface 169 on the projection 167. Further pivotal movement of the frame 240 will cause the locking member 246 to move toward its opposing end member 242 until the engagement surface 248 clears the engagement surface 168 on the projection 167. The locking member 246 then snaps toward the wall 141 as a result of the action of the springs 249, thereby to place the engagement surfaces 168 and 248 in facing relationship and preclude removal of the container 230. By opening the gate 200, a tool can be slipped into the slot 250 to move the locking member 246 away from the side wall 141 until the engagement surface 248 clears the engagement surface 168, whereupon the container 230 may be pivoted about the projection 243 until the locking member 246 clears the lower end of the housing 140 to enable the container 230 to be removed.

In operation the vending machine which incorporates therein the coin-processing mechanism 30, the security device 35, and the container 230, is first opened in the usual manner. The collector carries with him the key 124 and inserts the same into the lock 121 of the upper housing 40. The key is turned in a counterclockwise direction, as previously described, to close the

gates

110 and 200 respectively in the

housings

40 and 140. With the gate 110 closed, the housing 140 may be separated from the housing 40, again as previously described. The unit consisting of the container 230 and the housing 140 having the gate 200 therein locked, in the condition shown in FIG. 3, is removed. It is most important to note that the gate 110 in the housing 40 is locked in its closed position and cannot be opened, even though the key 124 is in the lock 121, because the tumblers 70 are in their locked positions and will so remain as long as the housing 40 is separated from the housing 140. Thus, a would-be pilferer is unable to place his own bag beneath the coin outlet 33 of the coin-processing mechanism 30 for collecting coins, returning sometime later to pick up the bag. Also, the gate 200 in the housing 140 is locked in its closed position and cannot be opened because the tumblers 170 are in their locked positions and will so remain as long as the housing 140 is separated from the housing 40. Thus, the would-be pilferer cannot gain access to the container 230 to steal money collected therein. Finally, if, while the

housings

40 and 140 are united, the coin collector manipulates the container 230 so that his thumb and forefinger can grasp the gate 200 and hold it open, the tumblers 170 will not return to their original positions by virtue of the arcuate abutments 209, and, therefore, the two

housings

40 and 140 could not be separated, as previously described.

The collector then slides into place on the housing 40 a fresh unit consisting of an empty container 230 and a locked housing 140. Uniting the two

housings

40 and 140 releases the

gates

110 and 200, as explained previously. The key 124 is then turned in the counterclockwise direction simultaneously to open both

gates

110 and 200 to provide a passageway for coinsto pass from the outlet 33 of the coin-processing mechanism 30 into the container 230. He then withdraws the key 124 and locks the vending machine.

Usually there will be provided a central location for collecting the units each consisting of a filled container 230 and a locked housing 140. The containers 230 are emptied, the money is counted, and fresh units, each consisting of an empty container 230 and a locking housing 140, are given to the collector. When the counter at the central location receives a filled unit, she inserts the key 187 through the keyway opening 154 and into the keyway 155, all as previously explained, to release the tumblers 170. The counter can then insert a finger through the chute 161 and open the gate 200 against the action of the spring 202. The unit is then inverted and shaken to allow the money to fall out and be counted, etc. Alternatively, after the gate 200 has been opened, a tool such as a screwdriver can be inserted into the slot 250 in the locking member 246 for releasing the container 230 as described previously. The container 230 itself can then be inverted and shaken to obtain the money therein. This latter procedure has the advantage of increasing the effective size of the opening.

What has been described, therefore, is a security device which can be mounted on virtually any coin-processing mechanism, to prevent pilfering. Effectively, the security device 35 above described operates automatically to block the outlet 33 of the coin-processing mechanism 30 and the inlet to the coin container 230, when the coin container 230 is removed. On the other hand, when the coin container 230 is mounted in place, the outlet 33 and the inlet of the coin container 230 are respectively unblocked to accommodate gravitation of coins into the container 230.

While there has been described what is at present considered to be a preferred embodiment of the invention, it will be understood that various modifications may be made therein, and it is intended to cover in the appended claims all such modifications as fall within the spirit and scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:

l. A security device for use with a coin container and a coin-processing mechanism, said security device comprising an output conduit having a groove on the inside surface of the side wall thereof, a first gate mounted in said output conduit and having open and closed positions for respectively unblocking and blocking said output conduit, an inwardly facing first projection on said output conduit and disposed across from said groove, a frame secured in use to the coin container at the inlet thereof and carrying outwardly directed second and third projections spring-biased away from each other, said first and second projections respectively having mating first and second camming surfaces and mating first and second abutment surfaces, said third projection being disposed in said groove while the container is pivoted to cause said second camming surface to ride along said first camming surface until said second projection clears said first projection, whereupon said second projection snaps outwardly to place said abutment surfaces in facing relationship and thereby prevent separation of the container from said output conduit, an input conduit for attachment to the coin-processing mechanism in registry with the outlet thereof, a second gate mounted in said input conduit and having open and closed positions respectively for unblocking and blocking said input conduit, and locking means on said conduits and on said gates and having a first condition when said conduits are united wherein said gates are in the open positions thereof to afford a passageway for coins to pass from the coin-processing mechanism to the coin container, said locking means having a second condition when said conduits are separated wherein said gates are in the closed positions thereof to prevent withdrawal of coins from the coin container and the coin-processing mechanism.

2. The security device set forth in claim 23, wherein said second projection has a slot therein for receiving a tool to move said second projection inwardly against said spring bias to afford separation of the container from said output conduit.

3. The security device set forth in claim 23, wherein said conduits are each rectangular in transverse cross section, said groove being elongated and being formed in one side wall of said output conduit, said first projection being elongated and being formed on the other side wall of said output conduit, said frame being rectangular in transverse cross section, with said second and third projections being elongated and formed in the opposite ends thereof.

4. The security device set forth in claim 23, wherein said third projection is fixed and said second projection is movable toward said third projection against the action of said spring bias.

5. A security device for use with a coin container and a coin-processing mechanism, said security device comprising an output conduit for attachment to the coin container in registry with the inlet thereof, a first gate mounted in said output conduit and having open and closed positions for respectively unblocking and blocking said output conduit, an input conduit for attachment to the coin-processing mechanism in registry with the outlet thereof, a second gate mounted in said input conduit and having open and closed positions respectively for unblocking and blocking said input conduit, locking means on said conduits and on said gates and having a first condition when said gates are separated wherein said gates are locked in their closed positions and a second condition when said conduits are united wherein said gates are released, and actuator means operable when said conduits are united to move said gates to the open positions thereof to afford a passageway for coins to pass from the coin-processing mechanism to the coin container and to prevent separation of said conduits, said actuator means being operable to release said conduits from the interlocking condition thereof and for movement of said gates to the closed positions thereof for preventing withdrawal of coins from the coin container and the coin-processing mechanism when said conduits are separated, said gates being respectively pivotally mounted on said conduits and the gate on one of said conduits being spring-biased to the closed position thereof, said actuator means being mounted on the other of said conduits and operable when said gates are released for pivoting the gate associated with said other conduit to the open position thereof, the gate in said one conduit being constructed and arranged to be engaged by the gate in said other conduit during the pivoting thereof to its open position for simultaneously pivoting the gate in said one conduit to its open position.

6. A security device for use with a coin container and a coin-processing mechanism, said security device comprising an output conduit for attachment to the coin container in registry with the inlet thereof, a first gate mounted in said output conduit and having open and closed positions for respectively unblocking and blocking said output conduit, an input conduit for attachment to the coin-processing mechanism in registry with the outlet thereof, a second gate mounted in said input conduit and having open and closed positions respectively for unblocking and blocking said input conduit, locking means on said conduits and on said gates and having a first condition when said gates are separated wherein said gates are locked in their closed positions and a second condition when said conduits are united wherein said gates are released, and actuator means operable when said conduits are united to move said gates to the open positions thereof to afford a passageway for coins to pass from the coin-processing mechanism to the coin container and to prevent separation of said conduits, said actuator means being operable to release said conduits from the interlocking condition thereof and for movement of said gates to the closed positions thereof for preventing withdrawal of coins from the coin container and the coin-processing mechanism when said conduits are separated, said actuator means including a locking device operatively connected to said gates, and a key insertable in said locking means and turnable therein to pivot said gates between the open and closed positions thereof.

7. A security device for use with a com container and a coin-processing mechanism, said security device comprising an output conduit for attachment to the coin container in registry with the inlet thereof, a first gate pivotally mounted in said output conduit and having open and closed positions respectively for unblocking and blocking said output conduit, a set of first tumblers mounted in said output conduit for reciprocal movement therein between a first position for locking said first gate closed and a second position for releasing said first gate, an input conduit for attachment to the coinprocessing mechanism in registry with the outlet thereof, a second gate pivotally mounted in said input conduit and having open and closed positions respectively for unblocking and blocking said input conduit, a set of second tumblers mounted in said input conduit for reciprocal movement therein between a first position for locking said second gate closed and a second position for releasing said second gate, a first key on said output conduit and engageable with said second tumblers for placement thereof in their released conditions, a second key on said input conduit and engageable with said first tumblers for placement thereof in their released conditions, said sets of tumblers and said keys being so constructed and arranged that uniting said conduits causes said keys simultaneously to engage their associated sets of tumblers for simultaneously releasing said gates, and actuator means operable when said conduits are united to move said gates to the open positions thereof to define a passageway for coins to pass from the coin-processing mechanism to the coin container and to prevent separation of said conduits, said actuator means being operable to release said conduits from the interlocking condition thereof and for movement of said gates to the closed positions thereof for preventing withdrawal of coins from the coin container and the coin-processing mechanism when said conduits are separated, each of said tumblers being plate-like and having a keyway therein and a tab thereon, each of said gates having an engagement surface thereon and a set of slots therein, the tabs on said first tumblers engaging the engagement surface on said first gate when said first gate is in its closed position, the tabs on said second tumblers engaging the engagement surface on said second gate when said second gate is in its closed position, the uniting of said conduits causing said first key to pass through the keyways in said second tumblers for reciprocal movement thereof to align the associating tabs with the slots in said second gate for release thereof, the uniting of said conduits causing said second key to pass through the keyways in said first tumblers for reciprocal movement thereof to align the associated tabs with the slots in said first gate for release thereof.

I I i i 1 2 3 UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION Patent No. 3,677,461 Dated July 18, 1972 inventor) Robert M. Nitschneider, Charles G. Neumann, and

Harvey R. Krueger It is certified that error appears in the above-identified patent and that said Letters Patent are hereby corrected as shown below:

Cclumn lO line 72, change "23" to 1 Cciumn ll, line 1, change "23" to --l--; Column-ll, line 9, change "23" 'to -'-l--.

: Signed and sealed this 2nd d ay of January 1973.

(SEAL) Attest: V

EDWARD MIFLETCHERJR. I ROBERT GOTTSCHALK Attesti-ng Officer 7 Commissioner of Patents

Claims

1. A security device for use with a coin container and a coinprocessing mechanism, said security device comprising an output conduit having a groove on the inside surface of the side wall thereof, a first gate mounted in said output conduit and having open and closed positions for respectively unblocking and blocking said output conduit, an inwardly facing first projection on said output conduit and disposed across from said groove, a frame secured in use to the coin container at the inlet thereof and carrying outwardly directed second and third projections spring-biased away from each other, said first and second projections respectively having mating first and second camming surfaces and mating first and second abutment surfaces, said third projection being disposed in said groove while the container is pivoted to cause said second camming surface to ride along said first camming surface until said second projection clears said first projection, whereupon said second projection snaps outwardly to place said abutment surfaces in facing relationship and thereby prevent separation of the container from said output conduit, an input conduit for attachment to the coinprocessing mechanism in registry with the outlet thereof, a second gate mounted in said input conduit and having open and closed positions respectively for unblocking and blocking said input conduit, and locking means on said conduits and on said gates and having a first condition when said conduits are united wherein said gates are in the open positions thereof to afford a passageway for coins to pass from the coin-processing mechanism to the coin container, said locking means having a second condition when said conduits are separated wherein said gates are in the closed positions thereof to prevent withdrawal of coins from the coin container and the coin-processing mechanism.

7. A security device for use with a coin container and a coin-processing mechanism, said security device comprising an output conduit for attachment to the coin container in registry with the inlet thereof, a first gate pivotally mounted in said output conduit and having open and closed positions respectively for unblocking and blocking said output conduit, a set of first tumblers mounted in said ouTput conduit for reciprocal movement therein between a first position for locking said first gate closed and a second position for releasing said first gate, an input conduit for attachment to the coin-processing mechanism in registry with the outlet thereof, a second gate pivotally mounted in said input conduit and having open and closed positions respectively for unblocking and blocking said input conduit, a set of second tumblers mounted in said input conduit for reciprocal movement therein between a first position for locking said second gate closed and a second position for releasing said second gate, a first key on said output conduit and engageable with said second tumblers for placement thereof in their released conditions, a second key on said input conduit and engageable with said first tumblers for placement thereof in their released conditions, said sets of tumblers and said keys being so constructed and arranged that uniting said conduits causes said keys simultaneously to engage their associated sets of tumblers for simultaneously releasing said gates, and actuator means operable when said conduits are united to move said gates to the open positions thereof to define a passageway for coins to pass from the coin-processing mechanism to the coin container and to prevent separation of said conduits, said actuator means being operable to release said conduits from the interlocking condition thereof and for movement of said gates to the closed positions thereof for preventing withdrawal of coins from the coin container and the coin-processing mechanism when said conduits are separated, each of said tumblers being plate-like and having a keyway therein and a tab thereon, each of said gates having an engagement surface thereon and a set of slots therein, the tabs on said first tumblers engaging the engagement surface on said first gate when said first gate is in its closed position, the tabs on said second tumblers engaging the engagement surface on said second gate when said second gate is in its closed position, the uniting of said conduits causing said first key to pass through the keyways in said second tumblers for reciprocal movement thereof to align the associating tabs with the slots in said second gate for release thereof, the uniting of said conduits causing said second key to pass through the keyways in said first tumblers for reciprocal movement thereof to align the associated tabs with the slots in said first gate for release thereof.