US3885660A

US3885660A - Vending machine with plural conveyors

Info

Publication number: US3885660A
Application number: US304094A
Authority: US
Inventors: Howard L Burks
Original assignee: JACK FOLLRATH
Current assignee: JACK FOLLRATH
Priority date: 1972-11-06
Filing date: 1972-11-06
Publication date: 1975-05-27
Anticipated expiration: 1992-05-27

Abstract

The invention features a vending machine and an improved coin meter therefor. The vending machine comprises a housing enclosing support means for a pair of endless conveyors, one surrounding the other. Each conveyor carries a plurality of containers for the articles being dispensed. A separate drive means is provided for each conveyor to sequentially bring the containers of that conveyor to a dispensing station when its drive means is energized by an appropriate signal from the coin meter. The coin meter has a coin intake slot for each conveyor and each coin slot leads to its own channel which terminates in divergent legs. The legs of each channel are so sized and configured that when the required number of correct coins are introduced into its coin slot, switch means are closed to energize the drive means of the conveyor corresponding to that coin slot. Means are also provided to discharge the coins from the channel lets to a coin receptacle, to reject incorrect coins and to block off each coin channel when the article containers of the corresponding conveyor are empty or the power source necessary for movement of the conveyor has failed.

Description

United States Patent [191 [111 3,885,660

Burks 1 May 27, 1975 1 1 VENDING MACHINE WITH PLURAL Primary ExaminerStanley H. Tollberg CONVEYORS [75] Inventor: Howard L. Burks, Lake Park, Fla.

[73] Assignee: Jack Follrath, Jensen Beach, Fla.

[22] Filed: Nov. 6, 1972 [21] Appl. No.: 304,094

[52] US. Cl 194/9 T; l94/DIG. 2; 221/76; 221/119 [51] Int. Cl. G07f 5/12; G07f 11/58 [58] Field of Search 194/10, 2, 1 G, DIG. 1, 194/DIG. 2, 9 T, 20; 221/129, 130, 132, 221/150 B, 76, 119; 312/97, 97.1

[56] References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 2,074,351 3/1937 Zeigler 221/130 X 2,497,748 2/1950 Von Stoeser 221/129 X 2,610,100 9/1952 Childers 194/DIG. 20 2,647,608 8/1953 Dahlberg ct al... 194/9 T X 2,773,579 12/1956 Lutes 194/D1G. 20 2,776,035 1/1957 Hcbel..... 221/150 B X 3,002,602 10/1961 Giepen 194/10 3,194,432 7/1965 Breitenstein et a1 221/129 X 3,235,054 2/1966 Hall 194/9 T 3,416,429 12/1968 Torsiello et a1. 221/150 HC X Assistant ExaminerFrancis J. Bartuska Attorney, Agent, or Firm-Jerome P. Bloom [5 7 ABSTRACT The invention features a vending machine and an improved coin meter therefor. The vending machine comprises a housing enclosing support means for a pair of endless conveyors, one surrounding the other. Each conveyor carries a plurality of containers for the articles being dispensed. A separate drive means is provided for each conveyor to sequentially bring the containers of that conveyor to a dispensing station when its drive means is energized by an appropriate signal from the coin meter. The coin meter has a coin intake slot for each conveyor and each coin slot leads to its own channel which terminates in divergent legs. The legs of each channel are so sized and configured that when the required number of correct coins are introduced into its coin slot, switch means are closed to energize the drive means of the conveyor corresponding to that coin slot. Means are also provided to discharge the coins from the channel lets to a coin receptacle, to reject incorrect coins and to block off each coin channel when the article containers of the corresponding conveyor are empty or the power source necessary for movement of the conveyor has failed.

24 Claims, 9 Drawing Figures VENDING MACHINE WITH PLURAL CONVEYORS BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to a vending machine including an improved coin meter and featuring separate article dispensing conveyors disposed one within the other. The invention units are so constructed as to be more economical to manufacture, more efficient and satisfactory in use and adaptable to a wide variety of applications. They are easy to assemble, service and maintain.

The prior art reveals a wide variety of vending or dispensing machines designed for all manner of products. While reasonably satisfactory, such machines are generally bulky, complex structures which are expensive to manufacture and difficult to service and maintain. Moreover, when used out-doors, or in other places subject to high humidity, their problems in use are compounded by rapid deterioration of their parts, influenced by moisture and consequence rust.

The present invention is directed to overcoming the above noted problems. It provides a machine of simple, compact, construction, one which may be easily and rapidly serviced.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention have several unique features lending themselves to not only an improved vending machine but improved controls for the vending procedure. In a preferred embodiment here illustrated article carrying conveyors of endless form are disposed one within the other and each provided with its own separate drive mechanism. The drive mechanisms are so designed as to be readily interchangeable. Their nature is such that they may be easily and quickly applied to or removed from the vending machine, as and when required.

The invention features an improved coin meter having a plurality of separate coin slots, one for each included conveyor. Each coin slot is arranged open to its own coin channel, the lower end of which terminates in divergent legs so sized and shaped that when the required number of correct coins are introduced in the coin slot, a switch means will be closed to energize the drive means ofa related conveyor. The coin meter is so constructed as to be substantially fool-proof in use. Its controls can be actuated only by the insertion of a required number of proper coins. Moreover, it includes means for rejecting improper coins and preventing the deposit of coins by a customer when the vending machine is empty of the product sought by the customer or where there has been a loss of machine power.

In any event, the invention apparatus is extremely versatile in use and application and unlikely to malfunction. While embodiments may be used to dispense a wide variety of articles, they are particularly advantageous for use under conditions of extremes in temperatures. Therefore, they will be illustrated as referenced to a vending machine applied to the dispensing of ice.

A primary object of. the invention is to provide a vending machine which is economical to manufacture, more efficient and satisfactory in use, adaptable to a wide variety of applications and unlikely to malfunction.

Another object of the invention is to provide an improved coin meter for a vending machine.

A further object of the invention is to provide an improved conveyor arrangement in the vending machine.

Another object of the invention is to provide improved controls for the dispensing of articles from a vending machine.

An additional object of the invention is to provide apparatus of the type described possessing the advantageous structural features, the inherent meritorious characteristics and the means and mode of use herein described.

With the above and other incidental objects in view as will more fully appear in the specification, the invention intended to be protected by Letters Patent consists of the features of construction, the parts and combinations thereof, and the mode of operation as hereinafter described or illustrated in the accompanying drawings, or their equivalents.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a rear elevation view of the conveyor and drive mechanism of a vending machine in accordance with the present invention, a section of its cabinet being shown in fragmentary form;

FIG. 2 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the structure of FIG. 1 a portion of which is taken along the section line 22 of FIG. 1 and another portion thereof being at a location where the section line 2-2 is offset to include a side elevation view of the coin meter such as contemplated by the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the coin meter;

FIG. 4 is a further side elevational view of the coin meter, with a portion broken away to illustrate switch controls;

FIG. 5 is a sectional view taken along the section line 5-5 of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a sectional view taken along the section line 66 of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a fragmentary sectional view taken along the section line 77 of FIG. 4;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the frame structure supporting the conveyor system; and

FIG. 9 is a diagrammatic representation of the electrical circuitry of the vending machine and coin meter of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT ILLUSTRATED FIG. 1 of the drawings shows the conveyor system of the invention and the support therefor. The support is comprised of an open framework 2 having a three dimensional H-shaped configuration. This framework includes vertical leg portions 4 and 6 spaced by a horizontally disposed bridging portion 8. The latter is positioned immediately above a medial horizontally extending line of the entire framework.

The respective portions of the framework are made up, in the example illustrated, of sections of angle iron connected together into a rectangular form. As will be obvious, rather than angle iron one may use tubing or rod elements. However, angle iron is preferred for ease of assembly. The portion 8 may be bolted or otherwise fixedly secured at its ends to the respectively adjacent

outer sides

5 and 7 of the framework vertical leg portions 4 and 6.

The inner surfaces of the sides, top and bottom of the central portion 8 of the framework 2 are lined by plates ll, 12, I3 and 14, respectively. Fixed to the remote surfaces of the

outer sides

5 and 7 of the vertical leg portions of the framework 2 are transversely and vertically spaced brackets 16. The eight brackets 16 utilized are disposed in a rectangular arrangement and provide means for mounting four

shafts

17, 18, 19 and 20. The shafts 17-20 are so disposed to extend from front to rear of the framework 2 and to define four corners of a rectangle surrounding and spaced outwardly from the framework portion 8. Each of the shafts 17 through 20 have fixed thereto a pair of sprocket wheels 22 which are identically spaced in a sense longitudinally of the related shafts. This provides 2 sets of sprocket wheels 22, each set in a different vertical plane and each set being circumscribed by an endless sprocket chain 24. As thus mounted the chains 24 have 2

vertical runs

25 and 26 and two horizontal runs. Of the latter the upper run 27 is spaced immediately above the top of framework portion 8 and the lower run 28 is spaced immediately below the bottom of portion 8.

The remote vertical outer side surfaces of the vertical leg portions 4 and 6 of framework 2 mount vertically and transversely spaced brackets 30. Brackets 30 are arranged in pairs spaced in a sense from front to rear of the framework 2. Each such pair rotatively supports a shaft 32 in bearing relation thereto, This provides a rectangular arrangement of four shafts 32, each mounting, in fixed relation thereto within the framework 2, a pair of sprocket wheels 34. This provides two sets of four sprocket wheels 34, the sets respectively occupying a different one of the two parallel planes occupied by the sprocket wheels 22. Each set of wheels 34 mounts an endless chain 36 in a concentric spaced relation to one of the chains 24.

Fixed in bridging relation to the chains 24, equidistantly spaced about their outer periphery, is a series of tubular receptacles 38 open to either end to receive therein, for example, a bag of ice. The outer chains 36 similarly mount identical receptacles 40.

As thus provided the chains 24 constitute a first conveyor for moving its mounted receptacles, in succession, to a dispensing station 42. The chains 36 constitute a second conveyor for successively moving its receptacles 40 t0 the same dispensing station, but in a position spaced upwardly of the receptacle 38 therebelow. The dispensing station 42 is constituted by means defining a vertically oriented opening in the front wall of the rectangular enclosure H constituting a housing for the conveyor system and the framework 2 above described. Since the details of the enclosure H are not significant, except to the extent required to understand the present invention, they are neither unnecessarily shown nor described.

The plates 11-14 define a rectangular opening extending from front to rear of framework 2. As shown, this opening is divided by open framework type partitions 44 into three rectangular, vertically elongated sections. Viewing the framework and conveyor systems from the rear, as seen in FIG. 1, the left of these sections, identified as 46, and the right, identified as 48, have slip fit, into the rear thereof in each instance, a right angled plate structure 50. Referring to section 46, the structure is comprised of an elongate plate-like leg portion 52 which bears against the inner surface of plate 11, generally coextensive therewith, and, at right angles thereto, a short plate-like leg portion 54. The portion 54 is adapted to bridge and provide a closure plate for the rear opening from the section 46, appropriate stops being provided to insure this position and function of the portion 54. The leg portion 52 of the structure 50 has appropriate openings aligning with openings in the side plate 11 through which bolts 53 may be thrust and wing nuts applied to secure the plate structure 50 in place. It is noted that the open framework partitioning the opening defined by the plates 1 1 through 14 facilitates an ease of application and removal of the plate structure 50. i

As may be seen in FIG. 2 of the drawings the leg portion 52 mounts thereon a motor 55 the drive shaft 56 of which projects through an opening in the leg portion 54, perpendicular thereto. Outwardly of the framework the projected end of shaft 56 mounts, in fixed relation thereto, a sprocket wheel 58. Immediately below the motor 55 the leg portion 52 mounts longitudinally spaced bearing units 60 which rotatably support a shaft 62. The latter is fixed against axial movement and one end thereof projects through the leg portion 54 in a position below and parallel to the drive shaft 56. The outer end of the shaft 62 mounts, in fixed relation thereto, a sprocket wheel 64 which occupies a plane commonly occupied by the sprocket wheel 58. As observed in FIG. 2, between the bearings 60 the shaft 62 is notched to provide it with a recessed flat 66 operatively related to a pair of

switches

68 and 70, the purpose of which shall be further described.

Viewing FIGS. 1 and 2, shaft 20 has oneend thereof projected to the rear of framework 2. Fixedly mounted on the projected extremity of the shaft 20 is a large sprocket wheel 72 positioned in the plane of the

sprocket wheels

64 and 58. The

wheels

72, 64 and 58 mount an endless sprocket chain 74. It will be seen that when the motor 55 is energized its shaft 56 will drive the sprocket wheel 58 and the chain 74, as a consequence of which the chain will drive the

wheels

64 and 72. Drive of the wheel 72 produces, in turn, a drive of the chains 24 and the receptacles 38 which mount thereon. As will be seen, the commonly driven shaft 62 will cause an operation of the switches 68 and at a predetermined moment in its operating cycle.

Accordingly, both drive means and controls related to the conveyor system mounting the receptacles 38 are uniquely packaged to be inserted in and extracted from the framework 2. The only elements that need be manipulated for the extraction and replacement thereof are the wing nuts which secure theleg portion 52 to the side plate 11 and the sprocket chain 74.

An assembly identical to the plate structure 50 and related elements as just described is applied in the section 48 of the opening defined within the framework section 8. In this case the respective components are shown in the drawings to be identified by similar num-.

bers having added thereto a prime" symbol. Thus, the structure inserted in the section 48 will comprise a structure 50 mounting a motor 55' including a drive shaft 56', the projected extremity of which has fixed thereto a drive sprocket 58'. As well as mounting the motor 55', the leg portion 52' of the structure 50 mounts bearings 60' in which is rotatably secured a shaft 62', the projected extremity of which mounts a sprocket wheel 64' and a portion of which intermediate bearings 60' is flatted at 66'. The flatted portion66' of shaft 62 is operatively related to switches 68' and 70' which, as will be seen, have a function similar to the

switches

68 and 70. The only difference in applying the structure 50 is that it has to be rotated from the;

orientation of the structure 50 as inserted in the framework 2. This will place the leg portion 52 in bearing abutment with the side plate 12. Attention is directed to H6. 1 of the drawings wherein it may be observed that the projected end of a shaft 32 at the upper right hand corner of the framework 2 has fixed for rotation therewith a sprocket wheel 78. The sprocket wheel 78 occupies a plane common to the sprocket wheels 58 and 64' and together therewith serves to mount a continuous chain 74. As the motor 55' is energized it will, of course, drive the shaft 56' and consequently the

wheels

58, 64' and 78. Consequently the chains 36 will be driven and carry therewith the receptacles 40.

Looking to FIG. 1 of the drawings, mounted in the rear of the middle section 47 of the opening defined by the plates 11 through 14 is a heating lamp 83. Also included are

receptacles

85 and 87 which afford connections to a source of power. The purpose of these will be further described.

Suitable means are provided for mounting a platelike element 86 to close the rear opening from the section 47. Latch elements 90 are pivotally mounted on the adjacent leg portions 54 and 54' of the structures 50 and 50' so that they can be swung into a position to releasably retain the plate 86 in place in a manner believed obvious. The plate 86 has a slot 88 which facilitates insertion of the fingers of one hand for its application and removal.

A coin meter 91 is releasably inserted in the front end of the section 47. In the preferred embodiment illustrated, meter 91 includes a box-like housing comprised of front, side, top and bottom walls, all of which are fabricated of clear plastic sheet or plate material. lts front wall 92 is a plate, peripheral portions of which project to provide shoulders for seating and mounting the coin meter to the framework 2. The mounting may be achieved by bolts and nuts, or any other suitable securing means, in a manner believed obvious. Each of the meter side walls 94 has a double thickness, including

superposed plates

96 and 98, the plate 98 being innermost. A brace bar 104 is secured to and between the side walls 94 adjacent but spaced below the meter top wall 100. The back of the meter housing is otherwise open to provide easy access to operating components of the coin meter system. It is to be noted that the bottom wall 102 of the meter 91 is spaced slightly above the lower extremities of the side walls 94. The purpose of this will soon become obvious.

The meter front wall 92 is formed with two vertical coin slots 106, which are laterally spaced to position one thereof between the remote outer surfaces of the

plates

96 and 98 forming each side wall 94, adjacent their upper ends. Referring to FIGS. 4, 6 and 7 of the drawings, the outer plate 96 in each side wall has a rectangular groove 108 formed in the side surface thereof which abuts the inner plate 98. The surface portion of the plate 98 which overlies the groove 108, forms therewith a coin channel 110, the upper end of which opens to a coin slot 106. As will be observed in the drawings, each coin channel has a configuration providing it with an upper section 112 angled rearwardly and downwardly from the related coin slot 106. The section 112 is extended downwardly, by a vertically oriented section 114 which terminates in a bifurcation dividing it into

divergent leg sections

116 and 118 which open from the bottom of the side wall in which the coin channel is incorporated.

A motor 120 is secured on the top wall of the coin meter housing and connected in driving relation to a shaft 122. The shaft 122 is mounted to depend vertically through the center of the coin meter housing, and to have its dependent extremity project through the bottom wall 102. Immediately below the meter hous ing, the shaft 122mounts in fixed relation thereto a metering disc 124 which is also formed of clear plastic. At each of four locations on its outer periphery, spaced 90 apart, the disc 124 is provided with a rectangular notch 126. In an inoperative position of the shaft 122, the projected portions on the periphery of the disc 124 intermediate the notches 126 are adapted to close the openings from the

leg sections

116 and 118 at the lower extremities of the respective coin channels formed in the coin meter side walls 94.

The front wall 92 of the coin meter housing has a central horizontally extended coin return slot 128 positioned below the coin slots 106.

A plastic plate segment 130 of rectangular form is positioned within the coin meter housing to extend between its side walls 94. The plate 130 is inclined upwardly and rearwardly of the housing. Its lower end connects to the inner surface of front wall 92 below the coin return slot 128 and its rearmost extremity terminates adjacent the brace bar 104. An aperture in the plate segment 130 accommodates the projection therethrough of the shaft 122. With the side walls 94, the plate segment 130 forms a coin return chute. In this respect note that in the downwardly and rearwardly sloping section 112 of each coin channel, above the plate segment 130, the surface of the plate 98 forming a wall portion of the coin channel is provided with an elongate depression 132. In the upper end of the depression is anchored one end of a leaf-type coin ejecting spring 134. The opposite end of the spring 134 is, in each case, biased into the related coin channel and towards an aperture 136 directly opposite the same, in the adjacent plate portion 96 of the side wall in which the spring is incorporated. In each case the aperture 136 is so sized and shaped that, in the event a coin or other object is introduced into a coin channel which is not of the proper character or size, the spring 134 will induce such coin or object to be ejected through the related aperture 136 to fall onto and be guided by the plate segment 130 to the coin return slot 128. In this manner there is insured a prompt rejection of a false coin or one of inadequate value, before it can activate the dispensing system in a manner which will be soon described. Mounted on the front wall 92 of the coin meter, adjacent and to one side of the upper end of each coin channel is a solenoid 138 having a normally retracted plunger 139. The adjacent meter wall portions defining a coin channel in line with each plunger are suitably apertured to accommodate the projection of the plunger into the coin channel adjacent the related coin slot 106. The solenoids 138 are arranged to function in this manner to block a coin channel or channels in the event there is a failure of the power supply to the vending machine in which the coin meter is incorporated or in the event all of the receptacles, whether they be the

receptacles

38 or 40, related to a coin channel are empty. This last is achieved by providing a triggering element 140 on one of each of the

receptacles

38 and 40. Each of the triggering elements 140 has associated therewith, suitably mounted on the framework 2, a switch 142. As the last receptacle on a conveyor holding an article to be dispensed is brought to the dispensing station 42, the triggering element related to the conveyor will position to close the related switch 142. This will cause the energizing of a solenoid 138, the projection of its plunger 139 and blocking of the re lated coin channel. This will be further described.

It is noted that in the instance illustrated the coin channels are arranged to receive and accept only quarters and the length of each of the

divergent leg sections

116 and 118 at the bottom thereof is so designed that it will accommodate only two quarters. Moreover, to bring a receptacle to the dispensing station 42 requires three quarters. The arrangement is such that the first two quarters will move into the leg section 116 and be retained therein by the metering disc 124, whereupon the third quarter will be diverted into the leg section 118. Contained in the leg section 118, in the path of the quarter which moves therein, is a spring type control arm 144. The latter is connected to operate a normally open switch 146 supported on the adjacent side wall 94. Upon the movement of the third quarter into the leg section 118, it will engage and pivot the element 144. As a consequence, switch 146 will close a circuit energizing, for example, the drive motor 55, which operates the conveyor system including the chains 24 to bring a filled receptacle 38 to the dispensing station of the vending machine. Similar structure and controls are provided for the drive motor 55'.

It will be seen from the foregoing that the drive means for the conveyor chains 24 and the receptacles 38 and the drive means for the conveyor chains 36 and the receptacles 40 are identical. Moreover, each drive means is related to an identical system for energizing thereof, through the medium of insertion of the proper coins and the proper number of coins in a related coin slot 106. The deposit of the proper coins, in their entirety, produces a closing of the pertaining drive motor start switch 146. FIG. 9 of the drawings schematically illustrates the circuitry involved in the energizing and function of one or the other conveyor systems as dictated by the unique coin meter unit of the invention. For purpose of convenience in an understanding of the circuitry, where identical numbers are related to identical parts in the respective conveyor systems, the num bers pertinent to the conveyor system including the chains 36 are distinguished by prime symbols.

It is to be understood that the respective shafts 62 and 62' are in effect timing shafts. In their inoperative position they present, respectively, their flats 66 and 66' to control elements projected from the related switches so that such switches are in a normally open position. Once the related drive motor, one or the other, is energized, the turning of the

shaft

62 or 62, as the case may be, will cause the related switches, either 68 and 70 or 68 and 70 to close to insure the proper cycling of the conveyor system which is energized. As will be seen, the

switches

68 and 68 respectively serve as drive motor stop switches and the swtiches 70 and 70 respectively serve as coin meter motor start switches for operation of the system in which they are incorporated.

Looking now to FIG. 9 of the drawings, it will'be seen that the

receptacles

85 and 87 are respectively associated with the systems incorporating, respectively, the drive motor 55 and the drive motor 55. The schematic illustrates a source of power 148 connected through

suitable plugs

152 and 154 to the

respective receptacles

85 and 87. The heat lamp 83 is connected across the source of power in an obvious manner. It should be understood that the heat lamp 83 has a very important function. By virtue of its position and being constantly energized it will insure that the operatingcomponents of the coin meter unit will receive its full energy, to preclude the accumulation of moisture which is normally so detrimental to the life and function of .vending machine apparatus. Of course, the nature of the construction provided facilitates the full application, of the effect of the heat lamp 83.

Since the operation of the respective conveyor systems will be identical, only one need be particularly described for a full understanding of the invention structure. Let us assume that there is deposited in the reccptacles 38 bags of crushed ice and in the receptacles 40 ice cubes. A customer desires to purchase a bag of crushed ice and in such event, the cost in this case being 75 the customer will be required to deposit three quarters in the coin slot 106 specific to the inner conveyor system including chains 24, which mount the receptacles 38. At the time of deposit of the coins, the receptacle 38 accessible through a door at the dispensing station 42 will be empty, while the next following receptacle will be filled with the article desired. As the three coins are dropped into the pertinent coin channel 110, provided they are legitimate coins, they will pass the coin ejecting spring 134 in the channel as well as the opposite aperture 136 and move through the

sections

112 and 114. The arrangement of the

divergent legs

116 and 118 at the bottom of the channel is such that the first two coins will automatically be directed into the leg 116, the first coin abutting a portion of the disc 124 which is in closing relation to the opening trol arm 144 related to the switch 146. The latter con-.

stitutes a start switch for the drive motor 55.

The closing of the switch 146 by the third quarter completes a circuit, thereby to energize the drive motor 55 which through the medium of its drive shaft. 56 drives the sprocket wheel 58. The sprocket wheel 58, in turn, drives the chain 74 which produces a simultaneous drive of the timing shaft 62 and the sprockets 22 in a manner believed obvious. This initiates and continues the movement of the chains 24 until a filled receptacle 38 next appears in the dispensing station 42. As the timing shaft 62 is energized simultaneously with the drive from the motor 55, the control elementsfor the switches 68 and will come off the flat 66 and be radially displaced to close the

switches

68 and 70. The switch 70 is a coin meter start switch while the switch 68 functions as the drive motor stop switch. Closing the switch 70 completes a circuit to energize the motor .120 to thereby rotate the shaft 122 and the disc 124. As the disc 124 rotates, notches 126 will align with openings from the bottom of the

legs

116 and 118 of the perti nent coin channel, whereupon the three coins will drop into a receptacle R, relieving the bias on the control arm 144 of the switch 146. Though this causes an opening of the switch 146 which closed a circuit to energize the drive motor 55, power continues to be directed to the motor 55 due to the fact the switch 68 remains closed. This insures that the movement of the drive chains 24 will continue until a filled receptacle 38 is precisely aligned at the dispensing station 42. At this point there has been a complete rotation of the shaft 62, whereupon the flat 66 will once more present its face to the control elements of the

switches

68 and 70, permitting their movement to a position to open the switches in a conventional manner.

At this point the shaft 122 will nevertheless continue I to rotate, since its drive motor 120 is still energized, until a cam surface 123 provided thereon and related to a control arm for a switch 125 permits the control arm for the switch 125 to adjust and open this switch. This will open the circuit energizing the motor 120 and stop the rotation of the shaft 122 at a point where the opening from the

legs

116 and 118 of the pertinent coin channel are blocked. It should be understood that the function of the switch 125 is to condition the coin unit so that it will be ready to serve its function as the next demand is made for an article in one of the receptacles 38.

If the receptacle 38 brought to the dispensing station 42 is the last one mounted on the conveyor chains 24 to contain a product to be dispensed, the triggering element 140 provided on one of the empty receptacles 38, as illustrated, will position to engage and close a related switch 142. The closing of the switch 142 creates a closed circuit providing a dual function. It provides power to light a lamp 137 exposed by an opening in the wall of housing l-l, indicating that all of the receptacles 38 are empty. Simultaneously, a circuit is closed to energize the solenoid 138 to cause the projection of its plunger 139 to block the coin channel adjacent the slot 106 through which coins are inserted to demand an article which should be contained in the receptacles 38.

Of course, as previously noted, if a customer should insert his coins in the slot 106 related to the coin channel functioning in respect to drive motor 55', a similar sequence of events will take place.

The simplicity and economy as well as the efficiency of the coin meter and conveyor system of the invention should now be readily obvious. The invention has been particularly described in relation to the dispensing of articles which tend to create an environment normally causing a substantial accumulation of moisture within a vending machine. In the case of the present invention structure and system, particularly utilizing the preferred material indicated, one obviates basic problems inherent in the use of vending machines under such conditions. Nevertheless, apart from the advantage of the invention in this respect, the coin meter and the conveyor system of the invention, individually and mutually afford substantial improvements in the art. Of particular consequence in the conveyor system is the simplicity of maintenance and the ease of application to the framework 2 of the drive motor and control system. In respect to the coin meter, its components are not only simple but easily accessible for servicing, including replacement and repair. While the coin channels are here described to function with respect to the introduction of three quarters, they may be designed to accept only a coin or coins of different value and number. The modification necessary will be obvious to a mechanic with the foregoing disclosure before him.

From the above description it will be apparent that there is thus provided a device of the character described possessing the particular features of advantage before enumerated as desirable, but which obviously is susceptible of modification in its form, proportions, de-

tail construction and arrangement of parts without departing from the principle involved or sacrificing any of its advantages.

While in order to comply with the statute the invention has been described in language more or less specific as to structural features, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific features shown, but that the means and construction herein disclosed comprise but one of several modes of putting the invention into effect and the invention is therefore claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the legitimate and valid scope of the appended claims.

Having thus described my invention, I claim:

1. A product dispensing machine including a plurality of conveyors, each including means for delivering like or different products to a dispensing station, there being at least two said conveyors, said two conveyors each comprising an endless conveyor, one of which endless conveyors is surrounded by the other, said two conveyors being supported on drive elements which are spaced in vertical planes, means for the independent drive of said two conveyors through said drive elements, to move a selected one of said conveyors to successively present the products carried thereby to its dispensing station, and a framework commonly supporting said conveyors and providing a receptacle for said drive means which is central to and surrounded by said two conveyors.

2. A product dispensing machine as in claim 1, characterized by means for a releasable mounting of each said independent drive means for said conveyors in said receptacle, said mounting means being identical and reversely oriented in said framework.

3. A product dispensing machine as in claim 1 characterized by moisture inhibiting heat means incorporated in said framework in an exposed relation to said independent drive means receptacle.

4. A product dispensing machine as in claim 1 characterized by means to initiate the function of the independent drive means for a selected one of said conveyors, said one conveyor having in operative relation thereto a timing means which is energized by the functioning thereof, said timing means being operatively connected to said one conveyor to interrupt the drive of its drive means when a product carried by said one conveyor is delivered to its dispensing station.

5. A product dispensing machine as in claim 1 characterized by said independent drive means including a drive motor and timing means for control of the opera- -tion of said drive motor mounted on plate-like means which have a releasable fit in said receptacle, adapting the drive means and said timing means for a quick connection thereof to the related conveyor.

6. A product dispensing machine as in claim 5 characterized by said receptacle including a box-like opening for slip fit therein of each said plate-like means to bear on a wall portion thereof and to be releasably secured in such position.

7. A product dispensing machine as in claim 6 characterized by said plate-like means including a plate structure comprised of at least two wall segments at right angles to each other, one of which segments serves as a closure plate for at least a portion of said receptacle.

8. A product dispensing machine as in claim 1 characterized by said independent drive means for said two conveyors each including a drive unit comprising at least a drive motor and a timing shaft interrelated by a loop formed element which drivingly relates them to a selected one of said conveyors.

9. A product dispensing machine as in claim 8 characterized by a coin meter mounting in said framework including control means operatively related to each said drive unit whereby to provide for a proper coin or coins to activate a selected one of said conveyors to bring a product thereon to its dispensing station.

10. A product dispensing machine as in claim 9 characterized by said coin meter including a coin channel related to each of said conveyors wherein the deposit of a predetermined coin or coins in a particular portion thereof will initiate the energizing of the related one of said conveyors and there being means in connection with said coin meter for retaining a coin or coins in the coin channel thereof until a particular related one of said conveyors is energized.

11. A coin meter for a vending machine incorporating therein conveyor type dispensing means comprising means defining a coin channel opening from a front wall of said coin meter and extending rearwardly and downwardly of said meter to terminate in a plurality of divergent leg portions which open from the bottom of said coin meter, said leg portions receiving selective of the coins deposited in said channel, means in connection with said coin meter for normally blocking the discharge of coins from said leg portions until a related dispensing mechanism is energized, and drive means mounted on said coin meter functioning with means in a portion of said coin channel to provide a control for drive means related to said dispensing mechanism.

12. A coin meter as in claim 11 characterized by means in connection with said coin channel conditioned to operate in response to an empty condition of the related dispensing mechanism to block the insertion of coins in said coin channel.

13. A coin meter as set forth in claim 11 characterized by said coin meter being comprised of a box-like housing one wall of which contains said coin channel, said wall including two plate elements adjacent facing portions of which form opposite surfaces of said coin channel, one of said plate elements having an aperture and the opposite of said plate elements including means for ejecting from the coin channel, by way of said aperture, any improper objects placed in said coin channel.

14. A product dispensing vending machine and coin meter therefor, said vending machine comprising an endless conveyor, a plurality of product containers mounted on said conveyor, a dispensing station, said conveyor being so positioned as to bring said containers thereon sequentially to said dispensing station when driven, drive means for said conveyor actuable by a start signal from said coin meter, timing means to continue actuation of said conveyor drive means, once actuated, until the next of said product containers in sequence reaches said dispensing station, said coin meter having a coin slot accessible to the customer, means defining a coin channel in said meter leading downwardly and rearwardly from said coin slot and terminating in a pair of divergent legs, start switch means for said drive means in association with at least one of said legs. said legs being so configured that the last of the coins providing the total required to operate said vending machine closes said start switch means to produce said start signal to actuate said drive means and means controlled by said timing means to retain said coins in said legs until a time subsequent to closing of said start switch.

15. The structure claimed in claim 14 wherein said drive means comprises an electric drive motor operatively connected to said conveyor, an electric circuit containing said drive motor and connected to a source of electric .current, said start switch being in said circuit to temporarily complete said circuit and start said drive motor, said timing means comprising a timing shaft driven by said drive motor, cam means on said timing shaft, a drive motor switch in said circuit actuable by said cam means to maintain said circuit and said actuation of said drive motor until said next of said product containers reaches said dispensing station and to interrupt said circuit and stop said drive motor thereafter.

16. The structure claimed in claim 14 including means actuable by one of said product Containers to prevent further deposition of coins in said coin slot and channel when the last filled one of said product containers reaches said dispensing station.

17. The structure claimed in claim 14 wherein said coin meter comprises a front panel having said coin slot therein, a second panel affixed to the rear surface of said front panel and extending rearwardly thereof, said second panel comprising two plies joined together with adjacent faces thereof in abutting relationship, said coin channel including the divergent legs thereofbeing formed in one of said abutting faces, said start switch being affixed to said second panel with the actuator thereof being located in one of said legs.

18. A product dispensing vending machine and coin meter therefor, said vending machine comprising an endless conveyor, a plurality of product containers mounted on said conveyor, a dispensing station, said conveyor being so positioned as to bring saidcontainers thereon sequentially to said dispensing station when driven, drive means for said conveyor, said drive means being actuable by a start signal from said coin meter, timing means to continue actuation of said conveyor drive means until the next of said product containers in sequence reaches said dispensing station, said coin meter having a coin slot accessible to the customer, a coin channel leading downwardly and rearwardly from said coin slot andterminating in a pair of divergent legs, start switch means for said drive meansin association with at least one of said legs, said legs being so configured that the last of the total required coins to operate said vending machine closes said start switch means to produce said start signal to actuate said drive means and means to retain said coins in said legs at least until said start switch means is closed, said means to retain said coins in said legs comprising a coin meter motor mounted on said coin meter, a vertical shaft driven by said meter motor, a horizontally oriented disc-like member non-rotatively affixed to said shaft, the periphery of said disc-like member being adjacent to and underlying said legs whereby to retain coins in said legs, at least one notch formed in the periphery of said disclike structure, said disc-like structure being rotatable by said shaft to positions wherein said at least one notch is in alignment with each of said legs to permit the dropping of coins therefrom, means to actuate said meter motor after said start switch has been closed and means to deactivate said meter motor after the dropping of said coins with said at least one notch out of alignment with either of said channel legs.

19. A product dispensing vending machine of the type actuable by a coin meter upon insertion therein of the correct number of required coins, including a framework surrounded by an exterior casing, said framework comprising a pair of frame elements with a box-like structure therebetween, said box-like structure including a top panel, a bottom panel, end panels and open front and rear sides, two sets of rotatable shafts mounted on said frame elements, one of which sets mounts a first conveyor and the other of which mounts a second conveyor in surrounding relation to said first conveyor, said conveyors as so mounted being in surrounding relation to said box-like structure, a plurality of product carriers connected to each said conveyor, said vending machine having a dispensing station for the product carriers of each said conveyor, said conveyors being so positioned as to bring said carriers thereon sequentially to the respective dispensing station therefor when driven, drive means for said conveyors, said conveyor drive means being respectively conditioned to start by coin operated means associated with said coin meter, timing means to continue actuation of a drive means for one of said conveyors, once actuated, until the next of the product carriers on said one conveyor in sequence reaches said dispensing station therefor, a pair of plates each mounting a drive means and a timing means for one of said conveyors and constituting a drive assembly, each of said drive assemblies being removably mounted in said framework and being interchangeable, said drive means of each said drive assembly including in the drive means thereof a motor shaft mounting a drive sprocket and in the timing means thereof a timing shaft also mounting a sprocket, which sprockets are connected by a drive chain drivingly related to one of said sets of rotatable shafts to drive the conveyor mounted thereon.

20. A product dispensing vending machine according to claim 19, wherein said drive assemblies are mounted within said box-like structure, each drive assembly being removably affixed to one of said end panels,

21. A product dispensing vending machine according to claim 20, wherein said casing forms a closure panel for said front side of said box-like structure, said mounting plates each have lateral extensions thereon forming partial closure panels for said rear side of said box-like structure, a removable panel between said lateral extensions completing the closure of said rear side.

22. A coin meter for a vending machine of the type having a dispensing mechanism responsive to a signal from said coin meter upon the depositing therein of the proper number of correct coins, a start switch to generate said signal, said coin meter providing a coin channel leading downwardly and being so configured that the last of the total correct coins required to operate said vending machine closes said start switch to produce said signal to actuate said dispensing means, a horizontally oriented disc-like member underlying said coin channel whereby to retain coins therein, said disc-like member having at least one aperture therein which when aligned with said coin channel allows coins to drop therefrom through said aperture and means for rotatively positioning said disc-like member in a synchronized relation to operation of said dispensing mechanism.

23. A coin meter according to claim 22 including means to block the coin channel to prevent depositing of coins, said blocking means being actuable by said dispensing mechanism when empty, said blocking means comprising a solenoid actuable by said dispensing mechanism, said solenoid means having a core shiftable into said coin channel when said solenoid is actuated.

24. A product dispensing machine including a plurality of conveyors, each including means for delivering like or different products to a dispensing station, there being at least two said conveyors, said two conveyors each comprising an endless conveyor, one of which endless conveyors is surrounded by the other, means for the independent drive of said conveyors to move a selected one thereof to successively present the products carried thereby to its dispensing station, a framework commonly supporting said conveyors and the said drive means for said conveyors being releasably fit in said framework and surrounded by said conveyors, means to initiate the function of the independent drive means for a selected one of said conveyors, said one conveyor having in operative relation thereto a timing means which is energized by the functioning thereof, said timing means responding to operation of said conveyor to interrupt the drive of said drive means when a product carried by said one conveyor is delivered to its dispensing station, said one conveyor drive means comprising an electric drive motor positioned in a circuit adapted for connection to a source of electric power, an actuable start switch in said circuit for temporarily completing the circuit to energize said drive motor, said timing means including a timing shaft operatively related to and driven from said one conveyor, cam means on said timing shaft, switch means in said circuit actuable by said cam means to maintain said circuit and the actuation of said drive motor until a product carried by said one conveyor is directed to its dispensing station and operable to interrupt and break said circuit as a consequence thereof whereby to stop said drive motor.

UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION O PATENTNO. 3,885,660

DATED May 27, 1975 INVENTOR(S) Howard L. Burks It is certified that error appears in the ab0ve-identified patent and that said Letters Patent are hereby corrected as shown below:

In the ABSTRACT, line 18, "lets is corrected to read legs Col. 7, line 46, quote marks are applied before and Q after "prime;

' Col. 7, line 59 "swtiches" is corrected to read switches Col. 8, line 15 "recc-" is corrected to read rece- Q Col. 8, line 19 is inserted after "75 Signed and Scaled this [SEAL] v seventh D a Of October 19 75 Anesr:

RUTH C. MASON Arresting Officer C MARSHALL DANN ummrsswner ufPaIents and Trademarks UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION Q I I 27 19.75 Patent No. 3?885 P660 Dated May Inventor(s) Howard L. Burks It is certified that error appears in the above-identified patent and that said Letters Patent are hereby corrected as shown below:

The essignee should read:

. Assigneez Jack Follrath, Jensen Beach, Fla. 33457; a part interest Signed and Scaled this 9 second Day of December 1975 [SEAL] Attest:

RUTH C. MASON C. IAISIIALL DAN" A nesting Officer Commissioner of Patents and Trudtnllrks

Claims

5. A product dispensing machine as in claim 1 characterized by said indEpendent drive means including a drive motor and timing means for control of the operation of said drive motor mounted on plate-like means which have a releasable fit in said receptacle, adapting the drive means and said timing means for a quick connection thereof to the related conveyor.

14. A product dispensing vending machine and coin meter therefor, said vending machine comprising an endless conveyor, a plurality of product containers mounted on said conveyor, a dispensing station, said conveyor being so positioned as to bring said containers thereon sequentially to said dispensing station when driven, drive means for said conveyor actuable by a start signal from said coin meter, timing means to continue actuation of said conveyor drive means, once actuated, until the next of said product containers in sequence reaches said dispensing station, said coin meter having a coin slot accessible to the customer, means definIng a coin channel in said meter leading downwardly and rearwardly from said coin slot and terminating in a pair of divergent legs, start switch means for said drive means in association with at least one of said legs, said legs being so configured that the last of the coins providing the total required to operate said vending machine closes said start switch means to produce said start signal to actuate said drive means and means controlled by said timing means to retain said coins in said legs until a time subsequent to closing of said start switch.

15. The structure claimed in claim 14 wherein said drive means comprises an electric drive motor operatively connected to said conveyor, an electric circuit containing said drive motor and connected to a source of electric current, said start switch being in said circuit to temporarily complete said circuit and start said drive motor, said timing means comprising a timing shaft driven by said drive motor, cam means on said timing shaft, a drive motor switch in said circuit actuable by said cam means to maintain said circuit and said actuation of said drive motor until said next of said product containers reaches said dispensing station and to interrupt said circuit and stop said drive motor thereafter.

17. The structure claimed in claim 14 wherein said coin meter comprises a front panel having said coin slot therein, a second panel affixed to the rear surface of said front panel and extending rearwardly thereof, said second panel comprising two plies joined together with adjacent faces thereof in abutting relationship, said coin channel including the divergent legs thereof being formed in one of said abutting faces, said start switch being affixed to said second panel with the actuator thereof being located in one of said legs.

18. A product dispensing vending machine and coin meter therefor, said vending machine comprising an endless conveyor, a plurality of product containers mounted on said conveyor, a dispensing station, said conveyor being so positioned as to bring said containers thereon sequentially to said dispensing station when driven, drive means for said conveyor, said drive means being actuable by a start signal from said coin meter, timing means to continue actuation of said conveyor drive means until the next of said product containers in sequence reaches said dispensing station, said coin meter having a coin slot accessible to the customer, a coin channel leading downwardly and rearwardly from said coin slot and terminating in a pair of divergent legs, start switch means for said drive means in association with at least one of said legs, said legs being so configured that the last of the total required coins to operate said vending machine closes said start switch means to produce said start signal to actuate said drive means and means to retain said coins in said legs at least until said start switch means is closed, said means to retain said coins in said legs comprising a coin meter motor mounted on said coin meter, a vertical shaft driven by said meter motor, a horizontally oriented disc-like member non-rotatively affixed to said shaft, the periphery of said disc-like member being adjacent to and underlying said legs whereby to retain coins in said legs, at least one notch formed in the periphery of said disc-like structure, said disc-like structure being rotatable by said shaft to positions wherein said at least one notch is in alignment with each of said legs to permit the dropping of coins therefrom, means to actuate said meter motor after said start switch has been closed and means to deactivate said meter motor after the dropping of said coins with said at least one notch out of alignment with either of said channel legs.

20. A product dispensing vending machine according to claim 19, wherein said drive assemblies are mounted within said box-like structure, each drive assembly being removably affixed to one of said end panels.