A vending machine comprises a chassis, a shelf system including a plurality of product rows, a plurality of product gates each coupled to an associated one of the plurality of product rows, a movable stage, a retrieval platform, and a vending machine controller coupled to at least one memory. The vending machine controller is configured to determine a product code and a storage location of a selected product for vending, retrieve, from the at least one memory, timing parameters associated with at least one of the product code or the storage location of the selected product, and control one or more timings of one of the plurality of product gates associated with the determined storage location of the selected product, based on the retrieved timing parameters, to release the selected product from the shelf system to the retrieval platform.
B65G 1/137 - Dispositifs d'emmagasinage mécaniques avec des aménagements ou des moyens de commande automatique pour choisir les objets qui doivent être enlevés
G07F 11/42 - Appareils déclenchés par des pièces de monnaie pour distribuer ou délivrer d'une façon analogue, des articles d'une façon discontinue sortant de magasins fixes dans lesquels les magasins sont horizontaux les articles étant distribués par des moyens mus par moteur
2.
PAYMENT ACCEPTOR WITH A MULTIFUNCTION IMAGING SENSOR
A payment acceptor (500) includes an inlet, a payment media transport path to transport payment media such as a banknote or a coin from the inlet to an interior of the payment acceptor, and an imaging sensor (501) to capture an image of an object inserted in the payment media transport path. The imaging sensor is configured to capture an image of a user (504) attempting to insert an object (505) into the inlet. At least one processor (3902) is configured to receive one or more images of the media captured by the imaging sensor via at least one of the one or more fiber optic sensors (1121, 1122), analyze at least one of the one or more images to determine at least one media characteristic of the media, store the at least one media characteristic in the memory (3904), and cause the payment acceptor to perform an action based on the at least one media characteristic.
A banknote deposit-withdrawal system (300) for assisting in a financial transaction includes an opening (415) to receive banknotes in an orientation where the short edge of the banknotes is the leading-edge. A transportation mechanism (303) transports received banknotes to a separation area in the short edge leading-edge orientation. A separator mechanism (22014) separates banknotes from bulk in the separation area and transports banknotes serially to a sensing unit (1402) in a long edge leading-edge orientation. The sensing unit validates the authenticity of inserted banknotes in the long edge leading-edge orientation. After authentication, if rejected, banknotes are returned to the user in short edge leading-edge orientation. After authentication banknotes deemed genuine are sent to storage units (1406) in the long edge leading-edge orientation. The opening (415) is operated in a single banknote insertion mode, a bulk banknote insertion mode, a rejection of unacceptable banknote mode, and a banknote dispense mode.
B65H 3/06 - Rouleaux ou séparateurs rotatifs analogues
B65H 5/02 - Transfert des articles retirés des piles; Alimentation des machines en articles par courroies ou chaînes
G06Q 20/18 - Architectures de paiement impliquant des terminaux en libre-service, des distributeurs automatiques, des bornes ou des terminaux multimédia
4.
Multipurpose cashbag level and banknote presence in escrow detector
This disclosure relates to a cashbag sealing system. The system comprises a banknote transport mechanism operable to transport a banknote to a storing unit. The storing unit includes a banknote storing bag detachably coupled to the storing unit, and an escrow plate operable to escrow the banknote before the banknote transported to the storing unit is stored in the banknote storing bag, wherein the escrow plate is operable to move from a horizontally extending hold position to a downwardly or obliquely downwardly extending release position, and wherein the banknote transported to the storing unit is escrowed on the escrow plate when the escrow plate is located at the hold position. The system further comprises a sensor configured to detect a presence of the banknote on the escrow plate, and measure a level of banknotes in the banknote storing bag.
B65B 5/06 - Emballage de groupes d'objets, chaque groupe étant traité comme un seul objet
B65B 57/10 - Dispositifs de commande automatique, de vérification, d'alarme ou de sécurité sensibles à l'absence, à la présence, à l'alimentation anormale ou au mauvais positionnement des objets ou matériaux à emballer
B65H 31/02 - Récepteurs de piles avec support d'extrémité fixe contre lequel la pile s'entasse
B65H 31/34 - Dispositifs pour aligner des articles empilés
G07D 11/00 - Dispositifs acceptant des pièces de monnaie; Dispositifs acceptant, distribuant, triant ou comptant des papiers de valeur
G07D 11/23 - Moyens de mesure ou de détection pour mesurer la quantité de papiers de valeur dans des récipients
B65B 51/10 - Application ou production de chaleur ou de pression ou les deux à la fois
A banknote recycler (100) including an externally accessible banknote transport path comprises a spine module (112) operable to support and couple with one or more other modules, an accepting module (106) operable to couple to the spine module (112) and to receive and transport banknotes through a portion of the banknote recycler (100), a sensing module (104) operable to recognize banknotes received in the banknote recycler (100), a recycling module (108) operable to receive banknotes from, and dispense banknotes to, one or more other modules in the banknote recycler (100), and a cashbox module (110) operable to store banknotes received from one or more other modules in the banknote recycler (100), wherein one or more of the accepting module (106), the sensing module (104), the recycling module (108), and the cashbox module (110) include at least one openable panel (410) providing access to a banknote transport path.
B65H 5/06 - Transfert des articles retirés des piles; Alimentation des machines en articles par rouleaux
B65H 5/02 - Transfert des articles retirés des piles; Alimentation des machines en articles par courroies ou chaînes
B65H 7/06 - Commande de l'alimentation en articles, de l'enlèvement des articles, de l'avance des piles ou d'appareils associés permettant de tenir compte d'une alimentation incorrecte, de la non présence d'articles ou de la présence d'articles défectueux par palpeurs ou détecteurs sensibles à la présence d'articles défectueux ou à l'enlèvement ou à une alimentation incorrecte
G07D 11/13 - Récipients pour les papiers de valeur avec des moyens internes de manipulation des papiers de valeur
G07D 11/237 - Moyens de mesure ou de détection pour détecter les dysfonctionnements pour détecter les dysfonctionnements de transport, p.ex. le bourrage ou le blocage
One or more example embodiments provide a vending machine (105) that detects refrigerant leaks. The vending machine includes a main cabinet (605), a sensor circuit (615), and control equipment (830). The sensor circuit is configured to detect a refrigerant leaked in the main cabinet. The control equipment is configured to operate a component (620) of the refrigerated vending machine based on the detected refrigerant.
F25B 49/02 - Disposition ou montage des dispositifs de commande ou de sécurité pour machines, installations ou systèmes du type à compression
A47F 3/02 - Vitrines ou meubles d'exposition avec systèmes de distribution
A47F 3/04 - Vitrines ou meubles d'exposition à air conditionné ou réfrigéré
A47F 10/02 - Meubles ou installations spécialement adaptés à des systèmes de service particuliers, non prévus ailleurs pour des systèmes de type libre-service, p.ex. pour des supermarchés
A coin payout apparatus 100 is provided. The coin payout apparatus 100 includes a coin canister 101. The coin canister 101 includes a tube 102 for storing coins. The coin canister 101 also includes a coin ejector 202 operable to eject a coin from the tube 102. The coin canister 101 further includes a hopping disc 318 operable to rotate and engage the coin ejector 202 to eject the coin from the tube 102 when the tube 102 is moved into position with the hopping disc 318.
G07D 9/06 - Dispositifs pour empiler ou disposer de toute autre façon sur un support des pièces de monnaie, p.ex. plateau à orifices utilisables pour compter des pièces de monnaie
G07D 1/02 - Distributeurs de pièces de monnaie faisant de la monnaie
G07F 5/24 - Mécanismes actionnés par des pièces de monnaie; Verrouillages rendant la monnaie
9.
DUAL RIB COIN RESISTANT GATE FOR A PAYMENT INTERFACE
The present disclosure relates to a coin resistant gate (114) for a payment interface (102). The coin resistant gate comprises a body (502) moveably connected within the payment interface (102), a front surface (804) connected to the body (502), the front surface (804) operable to prevent objects from entering the payment interface (102), and, two or more protruding members (302) connected to the front surface (804), the two or more protruding members (302) for interacting with a payment card (402), wherein, upon an interaction between the two or more protruding members (302) and the payment card (402), the body (502) moves to allow the payment card (402) to pass the front surface (804) of the body (502) of the coin resistant gate (114).
G06K 13/08 - Alimentation en cartes ou délivrance de cartes
G06K 19/04 - Supports d'enregistrement pour utilisation avec des machines et avec au moins une partie prévue pour supporter des marques numériques caractérisés par la forme
G06Q 20/34 - Architectures, schémas ou protocoles de paiement caractérisés par l'emploi de dispositifs spécifiques utilisant des cartes, p.ex. cartes à puces ou cartes magnétiques
10.
SECONDARY BUS COMMUNICATION BETWEEN DEVICES IN AN AUTOMATED TRANSACTION MACHINE
An embodiment of this disclosure provides an apparatus for use in an automated transaction system. The apparatus includes a first interface coupled to a primary bus, the first interface configured to permit communication of data. The apparatus also includes a second interface coupled to a secondary bus, the second interface configured to permit communication of the data. A network topology of the primary bus is different from a network topology of the secondary bus. The apparatus also includes at least one processing device coupled to the first interface and second interface. The at least one processor is configured to communicate the data over at least one of the first interface or second interface.
An embodiment of this disclosure provides a sealing system for cash bags. The system includes a banknote validator, a head coupled to the banknote validator, a bag of a roll of bags, the bag configured to mount to the head, a first sealing mechanism coupled to the head and configured to seal a top portion of the bag, a second sealing mechanism configured to seal a bottom portion of the bag, and a vacuum pump configured to connect to the bag and configured to pump air from the bag.
An open banknote system comprises a first banknote path plate and a second banknote path plate coupled to a frame, wherein the first banknote path plate and the second banknote path plate are disposed a distance apart, a banknote path disposed in a space between the first banknote path plate and the second banknote path plate, wherein each of a first side and a second side of the banknote path open to an area wider than a central portion of the banknote path, and a plurality of rollers each coupled to one of the first banknote path plate and the second banknote path plate, wherein each one of the plurality of rollers forms a banknote pinch point with another one of the plurality of rollers.
G07D 11/40 - Architecture des dispositifs, p.ex. construction modulaire
G07F 7/04 - Mécanismes actionnés par des objets autres que des pièces de monnaie pour déclencher ou actionner des appareils de vente, de location, de distribution de pièces de monnaie ou de papier-monnaie, ou de remboursement par du papier-monnaie
This disclosure relates to a cashbag sealing system. The system comprises a banknote transport mechanism operable to transport a banknote to a storing unit. The storing unit includes a banknote storing bag detachably coupled to the storing unit, and an escrow plate operable to escrow the banknote before the banknote transported to the storing unit is stored in the banknote storing bag, wherein the escrow plate is operable to move from a horizontally extending hold position to a downwardly or obliquely downwardly extending release position, and wherein the banknote transported to the storing unit is escrowed on the escrow plate when the escrow plate is located at the hold position. The system further comprises a sensor configured to detect a presence of the banknote on the escrow plate, and measure a level of banknotes in the banknote storing bag.
B65B 5/06 - Emballage de groupes d'objets, chaque groupe étant traité comme un seul objet
B65B 51/10 - Application ou production de chaleur ou de pression ou les deux à la fois
B65B 57/10 - Dispositifs de commande automatique, de vérification, d'alarme ou de sécurité sensibles à l'absence, à la présence, à l'alimentation anormale ou au mauvais positionnement des objets ou matériaux à emballer
G07D 11/00 - Dispositifs acceptant des pièces de monnaie; Dispositifs acceptant, distribuant, triant ou comptant des papiers de valeur
G07D 11/23 - Moyens de mesure ou de détection pour mesurer la quantité de papiers de valeur dans des récipients
The present disclosure relates to a vending machine. The vending machine comprises an access port, a chassis including a plurality of trays and a plurality of columns, a movable stage, and a product catch coupled to the movable stage. The product catch is operable to move in a first direction to accept a product from one of the plurality of trays, and the product catch is operable to move in a second direction to deposit the product in the access port.
G07F 11/32 - Appareils déclenchés par des pièces de monnaie pour distribuer ou délivrer d'une façon analogue, des articles d'une façon discontinue sortant de magasins fixes dans lesquels les magasins sont inclinés plusieurs de ces magasins ayant une glissière de distribution commune
18.
Single-stage active integrator with multiplication of photodiode current
An embodiment of this disclosure provides an automated payment apparatus. The apparatus includes a photodiode current integrator configured to charge an integration capacitor. The photodiode current integrator includes a first feedback resistor connected along a negative feedback path of an operational amplifier between an output of the operational amplifier and a negative input of the operational amplifier. The photodiode current integrator also includes a second feedback resistor connected along a positive feedback path of the operational amplifier between the output of the operational amplifier and a positive input of the operational amplifier. The photodiode current integrator also includes an integration capacitor connected to the positive input of the operational amplifier and to common circuit ground. The photodiode current integrator also includes a reset switch connected to the positive input of the operational amplifier and to common circuit ground or to additional voltage source. The photodiode current integrator also includes a photodiode connected to the positive input and the negative input of the operational amplifier.
G07F 7/04 - Mécanismes actionnés par des objets autres que des pièces de monnaie pour déclencher ou actionner des appareils de vente, de location, de distribution de pièces de monnaie ou de papier-monnaie, ou de remboursement par du papier-monnaie
G01J 1/46 - Circuits électriques utilisant une capacité
G07D 5/00 - Vérification spécialement adaptée à la détermination de l'identité ou de l'authenticité des pièces de monnaie, p.ex. pour séparer les pièces qui ne peuvent pas être acceptées ou qui sont en monnaie étrangère
G07D 7/121 - Appareil caractérisé par les détails du détecteur
H03F 1/08 - Modifications des amplificateurs pour réduire l'influence défavorable de l'impédance interne des éléments amplificateurs
H03F 3/08 - Amplificateurs comportant comme éléments d'amplification uniquement des tubes à décharge ou uniquement des dispositifs à semi-conducteurs comportant uniquement des dispositifs à semi-conducteurs commandés par la lumière
H03K 17/785 - Commutation ou ouverture de porte électronique, c. à d. par d'autres moyens que la fermeture et l'ouverture de contacts caractérisée par l'utilisation de composants spécifiés par l'utilisation, comme éléments actifs, de dispositifs opto-électroniques, c. à d. des dispositifs émetteurs de lumière et des dispositifs photo-électriques couplés électriquement ou optiquement commandant des commutateurs à transistors à effet de champ
An automated payment system is disclosed. The automated payment system comprises a housing, a door coupled to the housing, wherein the door covers a side of the housing when in a closed position, a payment apparatus within an interior of the housing, the payment apparatus fixedly coupled to an extendable base, wherein the extendable base is slidably coupled to the housing and configured to extend out from within the housing and through the side when the door is in an open position, and a handle coupled to the door, the handle operable, when the door is in the open position, to contact the ground to provide additional support for the weight of the payment apparatus.
This disclosure relates to a banknote validator. The banknote validator comprises a banknote path formed within an interior of the banknote validator to transport a banknote from an opening of the banknote path through an interior of the banknote validator, a banknote imaging zone defined within a portion of the banknote path, the banknote imaging zone including a reflective region in a first portion of the banknote imaging zone, and a dark region in a second portion of the banknote imaging zone, and an image sensor configured to capture one or more images of at least a portion of the banknote imaging zone.
G07D 7/121 - Appareil caractérisé par les détails du détecteur
G01V 8/12 - Détection, p.ex. en utilisant des barrières de lumière en utilisant un émetteur et un récepteur
B65H 9/00 - Positionnement des articles, p.ex. orientement; Dispositifs à cet effet
B65H 5/06 - Transfert des articles retirés des piles; Alimentation des machines en articles par rouleaux
B65H 7/06 - Commande de l'alimentation en articles, de l'enlèvement des articles, de l'avance des piles ou d'appareils associés permettant de tenir compte d'une alimentation incorrecte, de la non présence d'articles ou de la présence d'articles défectueux par palpeurs ou détecteurs sensibles à la présence d'articles défectueux ou à l'enlèvement ou à une alimentation incorrecte
B65H 9/16 - Bande inclinée, rouleau ou positionneurs latéraux analogues, servant à l'avance des articles
This disclosure relates to a banknote validator. The banknote validator comprises a banknote path formed within an interior of the banknote validator to transport a banknote from an opening of the banknote path through the interior of the banknote validator, one or more banknote edge detection surfaces each configured to provide images of edges of a banknote in the banknote path, an image sensor configured to capture the images of the edges of the banknote provided by the one or more banknote edge detection surfaces, a steerable drive wheel at least partially disposed within the banknote path, the steerable drive wheel operable to reorient a banknote in the banknote path, and the steerable drive wheel operable to move from a first position to a second position to angle the steerable drive wheel in relation to the banknote path.
B65H 9/00 - Positionnement des articles, p.ex. orientement; Dispositifs à cet effet
B65H 5/06 - Transfert des articles retirés des piles; Alimentation des machines en articles par rouleaux
B65H 7/06 - Commande de l'alimentation en articles, de l'enlèvement des articles, de l'avance des piles ou d'appareils associés permettant de tenir compte d'une alimentation incorrecte, de la non présence d'articles ou de la présence d'articles défectueux par palpeurs ou détecteurs sensibles à la présence d'articles défectueux ou à l'enlèvement ou à une alimentation incorrecte
B65H 9/16 - Bande inclinée, rouleau ou positionneurs latéraux analogues, servant à l'avance des articles
22.
Multi-purpose imaging system for active steering system, recognition and string detection system
This disclosure relates to a banknote validator. The banknote validator comprises a banknote path disposed within an interior of the banknote validator, the banknote path including a banknote imaging zone, one or more banknote edge detection surfaces each configured to provide images of edges of a banknote in the banknote path, a banknote imaging sensor configured to provide an image of at least one portion of the banknote imaging zone, and an image sensor configured to capture the images of the edges of the banknote provided by the one or more banknote edge detection surfaces, and capture the image of the at least one portion of the banknote imaging zone provided by the banknote imaging sensor.
G06K 9/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture ou la reconnaissance de caractères imprimés ou écrits ou pour la reconnaissance de formes, p.ex. d'empreintes digitales
B65H 9/00 - Positionnement des articles, p.ex. orientement; Dispositifs à cet effet
B65H 5/06 - Transfert des articles retirés des piles; Alimentation des machines en articles par rouleaux
B65H 7/06 - Commande de l'alimentation en articles, de l'enlèvement des articles, de l'avance des piles ou d'appareils associés permettant de tenir compte d'une alimentation incorrecte, de la non présence d'articles ou de la présence d'articles défectueux par palpeurs ou détecteurs sensibles à la présence d'articles défectueux ou à l'enlèvement ou à une alimentation incorrecte
B65H 9/16 - Bande inclinée, rouleau ou positionneurs latéraux analogues, servant à l'avance des articles
23.
Secondary bus communication between devices in an automated transaction machine
An embodiment of this disclosure provides an apparatus for use in an automated transaction system. The apparatus includes a first interface coupled to a primary bus, the first interface configured to permit communication of data. The apparatus also includes a second interface coupled to a secondary bus, the second interface configured to permit communication of the data. A network topology of the primary bus is different from a network topology of the secondary bus. The apparatus also includes at least one processing device coupled to the first interface and second interface. The at least one processor is configured to communicate the data over at least one of the first interface or second interface.
G07F 19/00 - Systèmes bancaires complets; Dispositions à déclenchement par carte codée adaptées pour délivrer ou recevoir des espèces ou analogues et adresser de telles transactions à des comptes existants, p.ex. guichets automatiques
G07F 11/00 - Appareils déclenchés par des pièces de monnaie pour distribuer ou délivrer d'une façon analogue, des articles d'une façon discontinue
G07F 9/00 - APPAREILS DÉCLENCHÉS PAR DES PIÈCES DE MONNAIE OU APPAREILS SIMILAIRES - Parties constitutives autres que celles particulières à des genres ou types particuliers d'appareils
G06Q 20/10 - Architectures de paiement spécialement adaptées aux systèmes de banque à domicile
One example embodiment in this disclosure provides an apparatus comprising an opening configured to receive a banknote into a banknote path. The apparatus also includes a plurality of inboard transport wheels positioned in the banknote path and configured to transport the banknote in a direction longitudinal to the banknote path. The apparatus also includes at least one initial transport wheel positioned in the banknote path and nearer to the opening than the plurality of inboard transport wheels, the at least one initial transport wheel configured to transport the banknote from the opening to a first of the plurality of inboard transport wheels. The at least one initial transport wheel causes the banknote to pivot around the first inboard transport wheel when a leading edge of the banknote contacts the first inboard transport wheel. Pivoting causes banknote to contact a second of the plurality of inboard transport wheels.
A document handling apparatus for recycling documents includes an authentication unit, a first recycling storage unit, a document cassette, and a controller. The authentication unit is for receiving an input document and classifying the input document as having a class that is one of a plurality of classes. The first recycling storage unit is adapted to store documents belonging to two or more of the plurality of classes. The document cassette is adapted to store received documents. The controller is adapted to direct the input document to one of the document cassette and the first recycling storage unit based on content of the first recycling storage unit and the class of the input document. Related apparatus, systems, techniques, and articles are also described.
An apparatus includes a bi-modal roller configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the bi-modal roller. The bi-modal roller includes two ends and a rolling outer surface. The rolling outer surface is divided into a convex portion and concave portion. The concave portion includes at least one concave curve extending longitudinally between the two ends. The concave portion is configured to, when a film physically contacts the concave portion, affect translation of the film in response to a stick condition or a slip condition. The convex portion includes at least one convex curve extending longitudinally between the two ends. The convex portion is configured to, when the film physically contacts the convex portion, affect translation of the film in response to a stick condition or a slip condition.
G07F 7/04 - Mécanismes actionnés par des objets autres que des pièces de monnaie pour déclencher ou actionner des appareils de vente, de location, de distribution de pièces de monnaie ou de papier-monnaie, ou de remboursement par du papier-monnaie
B65H 23/038 - Commande du positionnement transversal de la bande par des rouleaux
B65H 29/00 - Délivrance ou progression des articles à la sortie des machines; Progression des articles vers ou dans les piles
A document bundler for a bill validator includes a document path, a transportation unit, and a clamp mechanism. The transportation unit is adapted to move a plurality of documents in series through the document path. The clamp mechanism includes a pushing member. The clamp mechanism is adapted to clamp a first document of the plurality of documents with the pushing member to inhibit movement of the first document by the transportation unit while a second document of the plurality of documents is transported substantially alongside the first document in the document path. The second document residing substantially alongside the first document forms a document bundle. Related apparatus, systems, techniques, and articles are also described.
B65H 33/00 - Formation de lots comptés dans les piles ou dans le courant de délivrance des articles
B65H 31/26 - Dispositifs auxiliaires pour retenir les articles dans la pile
G07D 11/00 - Dispositifs acceptant des pièces de monnaie; Dispositifs acceptant, distribuant, triant ou comptant des papiers de valeur
B65H 29/14 - Délivrance ou progression des articles à la sortie des machines; Progression des articles vers ou dans les piles au moyen du resserrement entre deux rubans ou courroies mobiles, ou entre deux jeux de rubans ou courroies et introduisant les articles dans une pile
B65H 29/22 - Délivrance ou progression des articles à la sortie des machines; Progression des articles vers ou dans les piles par contact avec des éléments rotatifs à friction, p.ex. rouleaux, brosses ou cylindres et introduisant les articles dans une pile
A document handling apparatus for recycling documents includes an authentication unit, a first recycling storage unit, a document cassette, and a controller. The authentication unit is for receiving an input document and classifying the input document as having a class that is one of a plurality of classes. The first recycling storage unit is adapted to store documents belonging to two or more of the plurality of classes. The document cassette is adapted to store received documents. The controller is adapted to direct the input document to one of the document cassette and the first recycling storage unit based on content of the first recycling storage unit and the class of the input document. Related apparatus, systems, techniques, and articles are also described.
G07F 7/04 - Mécanismes actionnés par des objets autres que des pièces de monnaie pour déclencher ou actionner des appareils de vente, de location, de distribution de pièces de monnaie ou de papier-monnaie, ou de remboursement par du papier-monnaie
G07D 11/00 - Dispositifs acceptant des pièces de monnaie; Dispositifs acceptant, distribuant, triant ou comptant des papiers de valeur
A sensing system to process at least one valuable document is described herein. The system includes a light source to generate a light beam. The system also includes at least one light pipe having one or more diverting surfaces to direct the light beam at a predetermined angle of incidence onto the valuable document. At least one reflective surface, to receive a first portion of the light beam transmitted through the valuable document and to reflect off the first portion of the light beam towards the valuable document, is included. A light detector is configured to receive at least a second portion of the light beam re-transmitted through the valuable document.
An actuated castellation plate can be arranged across a length of a currency passageway of a currency acceptor assembly and configured in an open state. Pressure from an attempted string fraud, such as pulling in reverse a bill across the castellation plate, can actuate the castellation plate to a closed state, obstructing the currency passageway so that the bait bill cannot be retrieved. Embodiments can include a currency acceptor including a currency passageway, mounting assembly, currency storage assembly having an entrance, the currency passageway being arranged to guide a currency denomination to the entrance of the currency storage assembly, and an actuated castellation plate including an array of teeth coupled to a baseplate including a receptacle and two opposing mounting ends, the castellation plate being configured at the entrance of the cashbox assembly to transfer between an open and closed state. Related apparatus, systems, techniques, and articles are also described.
G07D 13/00 - Manipulation de pièces de monnaie ou de papiers de valeur, caractérisée par une combinaison de mécanismes non couverts par un seul des groupes
G07D 11/00 - Dispositifs acceptant des pièces de monnaie; Dispositifs acceptant, distribuant, triant ou comptant des papiers de valeur
G07F 7/04 - Mécanismes actionnés par des objets autres que des pièces de monnaie pour déclencher ou actionner des appareils de vente, de location, de distribution de pièces de monnaie ou de papier-monnaie, ou de remboursement par du papier-monnaie
A gate assembly can include a housing, a main body, at least one member, and an activation rib. The housing can define at least a portion of a card path of a payment interface. The main body can be coupled to the housing and can be movable between a closed position and an open position. The at least one member can extend from the main body such that, when the main body is in the closed position, the at least one member extends into the card path and can be oriented to inhibit an item from traveling through the card path. The activation rib can extend from the main body and can be located such that, when the main body is in the closed position, the activation rib extends into the card path. Related apparatus, systems, techniques, and articles are also described.
G06K 13/06 - Guidage des cartes; Contrôle du fonctionnement correct des mécanismes de transport des cartes
G06K 13/08 - Alimentation en cartes ou délivrance de cartes
G07F 7/08 - Mécanismes actionnés par des objets autres que des pièces de monnaie pour déclencher ou actionner des appareils de vente, de location, de distribution de pièces de monnaie ou de papier-monnaie, ou de remboursement par carte d'identité codée ou carte de crédit codée
A handling apparatus comprising an offset sampling module and a digital processing module is described herein. The offset sampling module is configured to provide a sampled signal by sampling at least one signal at a sampling frequency that is offset from a fundamental frequency of the signal by an offset factor; and the digital processing module configured to convert the sampled signal into a frequency domain signal. The handling apparatus further includes an authentication module to determine at least one characteristic property based at least on the frequency domain signal; and to classify the inserted item of value based on the determination.
G07D 7/00 - Vérification spécialement adaptée à la détermination de l’identité ou de l’authenticité de papiers de valeur ou pour discriminer ceux qui sont inacceptables, p.ex. qui ne correspondent pas à une monnaie
G07D 5/00 - Vérification spécialement adaptée à la détermination de l'identité ou de l'authenticité des pièces de monnaie, p.ex. pour séparer les pièces qui ne peuvent pas être acceptées ou qui sont en monnaie étrangère
G07D 5/08 - Test des propriétés magnétiques ou électriques
An ADA compliant vending machine ensures provides a user control for entering an ADA mode, and displays all user-actuated vend transaction controls below a first specified height when operating in the ADA mode. A delivery bucket surface on which vended products are supported moves between a lowered position below a second specified height and a raised position above the second specified height in coordinate operation with opening of the delivery bin door. Products are dropped below the second specified height during delivery but are raised above that height for customer retrieval. Mechanical force required to open the delivery bin door is less than five pounds, even with closing of anti-pilfer flaps also being coordinated with opening of the delivery bin door.
G07F 9/02 - Dispositifs pour donner l'alarme ou une indication, p.ex. quand l'appareil est vide; Aménagements publicitaires des appareils déclenchés par des pièces de monnaie
A document validator includes a sensor, a transportation unit, an actuator, and a controller. The transportation unit is adjacent the sensor and has a document path, at least a portion of which has an adjustable path height. The transportation unit is configured to transport a document from a first location past the sensor to a second location. The actuator is operable to transition the adjustable path height between a first path height and a second path height different from the first path height. The controller is configured to automatically cause the actuator to transition the adjustable path height between the first path height and the second path height. Related apparatus, systems, techniques, and articles are also described.
B65H 5/02 - Transfert des articles retirés des piles; Alimentation des machines en articles par courroies ou chaînes
B65H 7/06 - Commande de l'alimentation en articles, de l'enlèvement des articles, de l'avance des piles ou d'appareils associés permettant de tenir compte d'une alimentation incorrecte, de la non présence d'articles ou de la présence d'articles défectueux par palpeurs ou détecteurs sensibles à la présence d'articles défectueux ou à l'enlèvement ou à une alimentation incorrecte
B65H 7/14 - Commande de l'alimentation en articles, de l'enlèvement des articles, de l'avance des piles ou d'appareils associés permettant de tenir compte d'une alimentation incorrecte, de la non présence d'articles ou de la présence d'articles défectueux par palpeurs ou détecteurs par palpeurs ou détecteurs photo-électriques
B65H 5/06 - Transfert des articles retirés des piles; Alimentation des machines en articles par rouleaux
B65H 5/26 - Alimentations en double, alternées, sélectives ou associées
A coin comprises a core made of a first metal, an outer ring surrounding the core concentrically and made of a further metal, and a central ring between the core and outer ring fixedly connected thereto. The central ring consists of an electrically insulating material. Further, the central ring is transparent to electromagnetic waves of a first wavelength range and is less transparent or not transparent to a second wavelength range. Methods for testing the coin are also described.
A44C 21/00 - Pièces de monnaie; Jetons; Pièces ou jetons à usage privé ou de jeu, ou similaires
G07D 5/00 - Vérification spécialement adaptée à la détermination de l'identité ou de l'authenticité des pièces de monnaie, p.ex. pour séparer les pièces qui ne peuvent pas être acceptées ou qui sont en monnaie étrangère
G07D 5/02 - Vérification des dimensions, p.ex. de l'épaisseur, du diamètre; Vérification de la déformation
A stacking mechanism for a cassette to store documents, a document cassette assembly comprising a stacking mechanism, and a method of stacking a document into a document cassette are described. The stacking mechanism can include a pusher plate that is adapted to push documents into the cassette. At least two shutter members of the stacking mechanism can be arranged to define a gap between each other. The shutter members can be movable. During a stacking operation, the shutter members can be moved so that the gap between the shutter members is enlarged. The documents can be pushed into the cassette through the enlarged gap by the pusher plate. Related apparatus, systems, techniques, and articles are also described.
A sensing system is described herein. The sensing system includes a sampling module configured to define a sampling interval. The sensing system also includes a plurality of sensors to sample an inserted item based at least on the sampling interval. The sensing system includes a tracking module configured to obtain start sensor data from the sensors, determine if start sensor data is absent, increment an absence count based at least on the determination, compare the absence count with a threshold absence count, and reject the inserted item based at least on the comparison.
G07D 7/00 - Vérification spécialement adaptée à la détermination de l’identité ou de l’authenticité de papiers de valeur ou pour discriminer ceux qui sont inacceptables, p.ex. qui ne correspondent pas à une monnaie
G06K 7/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture de supports d'enregistrement
G06K 9/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture ou la reconnaissance de caractères imprimés ou écrits ou pour la reconnaissance de formes, p.ex. d'empreintes digitales
G07F 7/04 - Mécanismes actionnés par des objets autres que des pièces de monnaie pour déclencher ou actionner des appareils de vente, de location, de distribution de pièces de monnaie ou de papier-monnaie, ou de remboursement par du papier-monnaie
38.
Cash validator and method for detecting tape on a document
A device and a system for detecting a tape or a piece of glue on a document and methods for detecting a tape or a piece of glue on a document are described. The device comprises at least one light source, at least one light receiver and at least one light barrier. The at least one light source is arranged on a first side of the at least one light barrier and the at least one light receiver is arranged on a second side of the at least one light barrier opposite to the first side. The light barrier is configured to come into contact with a document to prevent or reduce light emitted from the light source on the first side of the light barrier to be transmitted to the light receiver on the second side of the light barrier.
The present subject matter relates to a capacity detector, a waveguide and a manifold for use with a coin sensor as well as methods for sensing a capacity of a coin receptacle. In one aspect, the waveguide for use with a coin sensor comprises an excitation end for receiving an acoustic signal, a horn end for disposition adjacent to a coin receptacle, and a conduit interconnecting the horn end and the excitation end. In embodiments, the horn end of the waveguide may define a horn selected from a tapered horn, an exponential horn, a tractrix horn, or a modified tractrix horn.
A payment interface apparatus, system and method is disclosed. In particular, a payment interface apparatus for use in vending machines, gaming machines, or other, typically unattended machines that accept payments via a variety of payment methods is disclosed. Also disclosed is a system and method for determining and processing a transaction as a particular transaction type based upon the type of media used on a standardized financial transaction card. The interface apparatus includes a plurality of sensors to read one or a plurality of media on a single standardized financial transaction card in a single presentation of the card.
G07F 19/00 - Systèmes bancaires complets; Dispositions à déclenchement par carte codée adaptées pour délivrer ou recevoir des espèces ou analogues et adresser de telles transactions à des comptes existants, p.ex. guichets automatiques
G06K 7/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture de supports d'enregistrement
G06Q 20/34 - Architectures, schémas ou protocoles de paiement caractérisés par l'emploi de dispositifs spécifiques utilisant des cartes, p.ex. cartes à puces ou cartes magnétiques
G07F 7/08 - Mécanismes actionnés par des objets autres que des pièces de monnaie pour déclencher ou actionner des appareils de vente, de location, de distribution de pièces de monnaie ou de papier-monnaie, ou de remboursement par carte d'identité codée ou carte de crédit codée
42.
Generating a single audit file from multiple sources
A vending machine audit system includes a vending machine including a vending machine controller configured to generate device data representative of the operations of the vending machine. At least one peripheral device is operatively coupled to the vending machine and is configured to generate device data representative of the operations of the peripheral device. An audit module includes a data storage component and is operatively coupled to the vending machine controller and the at least one peripheral device. The audit module is configured to receive device data from each of the vending machine controller and the at least one peripheral device and to perform a merging operation to generate a single merged audit data record representative of the operations of the vending machine and the at least one peripheral device.
G07F 11/00 - Appareils déclenchés par des pièces de monnaie pour distribuer ou délivrer d'une façon analogue, des articles d'une façon discontinue
G07F 9/02 - Dispositifs pour donner l'alarme ou une indication, p.ex. quand l'appareil est vide; Aménagements publicitaires des appareils déclenchés par des pièces de monnaie
G06F 17/30 - Recherche documentaire; Structures de bases de données à cet effet
Apparatus for preventing unauthorized removal of currency items from a currency handling apparatus is provided. A removable security gate mechanism (500) is provided that comprises a housing (501), a rotatable gate (510), a drive wheel and a positioning member. The positioning member is selectively engageable with the drive wheel for positioning the rotatable gate (510).
G07F 1/00 - Dispositions pour l'introduction de pièces de monnaie; Pièces de monnaie spécialement adaptées pour faire fonctionner des mécanismes déclenchés par des pièces de monnaie
Apparatus and methods for handling items of currency using a triple gate diverter are provided. An apparatus is provided that comprises first, second and third diverter members (100, 200, 300) that are adapted for rotational/pivotal movement with respect to another. Each of the diverter members (100, 200, 300) is coupled to a longitudinal shaft (400), itself defining a central longitudinal axis of the triple gate diverter.
Automatic planogram programming for a glass front snack or cold drink vending machine is accomplished using tray, product and price barcodes, each preferably a different type of barcode. Trays within the vending machine are labeled with unique barcodes, and a set of price barcodes for predetermined prices is provided together with a USB-connected scanner. The barcode label affixed to any tray is scanned by the route driver. The UPC/EAN barcodes on products are then scanned for each selection progressing across the tray, together with a price barcode for the first selection and each subsequent selection having a different price from the prior selection on the tray. Planogram data for the tray may be reviewed and corrected on a customer interface display for the vending machine before moving on to another tray, with the trays programmed in any order. The planogram for the entire vending machine is quickly and accurately programmed.
G07F 9/02 - Dispositifs pour donner l'alarme ou une indication, p.ex. quand l'appareil est vide; Aménagements publicitaires des appareils déclenchés par des pièces de monnaie
G07F 9/00 - APPAREILS DÉCLENCHÉS PAR DES PIÈCES DE MONNAIE OU APPAREILS SIMILAIRES - Parties constitutives autres que celles particulières à des genres ou types particuliers d'appareils
G07F 11/00 - Appareils déclenchés par des pièces de monnaie pour distribuer ou délivrer d'une façon analogue, des articles d'une façon discontinue
47.
Synchronization of time critical activities across vending machine networks
Synchronization of activities requiring coordinated timing across a bank of vending machines, such as harmonious actuation of illumination elements, is performed by specifying, in an application layer (e.g., Zigbee) of a network protocol, actions to be synchronized to a distributed timing event and distributing notice of the specified timing event using physical and media access control layers of the network protocol.
G07F 11/00 - Appareils déclenchés par des pièces de monnaie pour distribuer ou délivrer d'une façon analogue, des articles d'une façon discontinue
G07F 9/02 - Dispositifs pour donner l'alarme ou une indication, p.ex. quand l'appareil est vide; Aménagements publicitaires des appareils déclenchés par des pièces de monnaie
A multi media payment device includes a banknote acceptor and a RF card reader, and also may include a magnetic card reader. A bezel assembly for connection to the bill acceptor preferably includes a reader unit to read magnetic swipe cards and contactless chip cards.
G06F 7/08 - Tri, c. à d. rangement des supports d'enregistrement dans un ordre de succession numérique ou autre, selon la classification d'au moins certaines informations portées sur les supports
A document storage assembly for storing documents such as banknotes in a stacked configuration includes a support plate assembly for biasing the stack of documents toward an opening in the housing of the document storage assembly. The housing can include an assist mechanism to facilitate displacement of the stack of documents during the stacking of a newly received document.
A system and method for directing a consumer through a vending machine transaction. The system and method include a UI guide comprising visual cues to direct a consumer to insert a minimum amount of money, make a production selection and confirm the product selection. The system and method provide for the consumer to cancel the transaction and request that return of inserted coins.
A system and method for providing a satellite vend operation. A first (parent) vending machine is operable to dispense a product from a product storage display area located in a second (child) vending machine. The first (parent) vending machine can control or interact with the functions of the second (child) vending machine. A programming menu on the first (parent) vending machine is automatically configured for a satellite vend operation when the first (parent) vending machine pairs with the second (child) vending machine. An operator is provided, in the programming menu located on the parent vending machine, relevant information associated with the child vending machine and relevant information associated with the parent vending machine.
G06F 17/00 - TRAITEMENT ÉLECTRIQUE DE DONNÉES NUMÉRIQUES Équipement ou méthodes de traitement de données ou de calcul numérique, spécialement adaptés à des fonctions spécifiques
A modular infuser includes a back plate assembly containing drive mechanisms and supporting a belt assembly, and infusing and mixing chambers. The belt assembly includes rollers rotating a continuous filter belt in either direction, an annular seal, and a funnel directing liquid to a removable, rotatable spout. The infusing chamber moves between having the bottom clamped to the seal through the filter belt and being spaced apart from the filter belt to allow waste removal by rotation of the filter belt. The mixing chamber receives and mixes ingredient and water, passing the mixture into the infusing chamber below. Replacement of the filter belt with different mesh sizes and of the removable spout with different inner diameters allows the mechanism to be easily adapted for different beverages, such as coffee or tea. Multiple instances of the modular infuser may be mounted in a single vending machine.
A47J 31/40 - Appareils à préparer des boissons avec des moyens de distribution pour ajouter une quantité mesurée d'ingrédients, p.ex. du café, de l'eau, du sucre, du cacao, du lait, du thé
A money handling device for accepting, storing and dispensing valuable documents in exchange for goods or services includes a validation module (100), a recycler module (200) and a note storage module (300). The validation module determines acceptable and non-acceptable valuable documents, and the storage module stores acceptable valuable documents. The recycler is arranged to dispense a temporarily stored valuable document to the validation module for dispensing as change or to dispense a temporarily stored valuable document to the note storage module.
G07F 7/04 - Mécanismes actionnés par des objets autres que des pièces de monnaie pour déclencher ou actionner des appareils de vente, de location, de distribution de pièces de monnaie ou de papier-monnaie, ou de remboursement par du papier-monnaie
G07D 11/00 - Dispositifs acceptant des pièces de monnaie; Dispositifs acceptant, distribuant, triant ou comptant des papiers de valeur
B65H 7/12 - Commande de l'alimentation en articles, de l'enlèvement des articles, de l'avance des piles ou d'appareils associés permettant de tenir compte d'une alimentation incorrecte, de la non présence d'articles ou de la présence d'articles défectueux par palpeurs ou détecteurs sensibles à la présence d'articles défectueux ou à l'enlèvement ou à une alimentation incorrecte sensibles à une alimentation ou enlèvement en double
B65H 85/00 - Recirculation d'articles, c. à d. fourniture et délivrance de chaque article plus d'une fois au même poste de travail de la machine
B65H 29/00 - Délivrance ou progression des articles à la sortie des machines; Progression des articles vers ou dans les piles
B65H 29/68 - Réduction de la vitesse des articles en mouvement
G07D 7/00 - Vérification spécialement adaptée à la détermination de l’identité ou de l’authenticité de papiers de valeur ou pour discriminer ceux qui sont inacceptables, p.ex. qui ne correspondent pas à une monnaie
57.
Security gate mechanism for a currency handling device
A security gate mechanism for a currency handling apparatus having a currency passageway includes a rotatable gate having a slit therein. The slit is aligned with the currency passageway when the rotatable gate is in an initial position. A drive wheel is coupled to the rotary gate for driving the rotatable gate in first and second directions, wherein the second direction is opposite the first direction. A positioning member is selectively engageable with the drive wheel for positioning the rotatable gate in the initial position such that the slit in the rotatable gate is substantially aligned with the passageway. The positioning member is arranged to be engageable with the drive wheel when the drive wheel rotates the rotatable gate in the second direction, but it is not engageable with the drive wheel when the drive wheel rotates the rotatable gate in the first direction.
A bulk document feeder module is adapted for connection to a document acceptor and is operable, when attached to the document acceptor, to feed one document at a time, from a bundle of documents, to the document acceptor. The bulk document feeder module can include a document transport mechanism, a portion of which includes a removable cartridge, to facilitate removal of a jammed object from the feeder module. The document acceptor can form part of a bill or other document validator.
B65H 5/22 - Transfert des articles retirés des piles; Alimentation des machines en articles par jet d'air ou dispositifs aspirant
G07F 7/04 - Mécanismes actionnés par des objets autres que des pièces de monnaie pour déclencher ou actionner des appareils de vente, de location, de distribution de pièces de monnaie ou de papier-monnaie, ou de remboursement par du papier-monnaie
A sensor arrangement for a banknote validator or other document acceptor using optical transmissive measurements includes at least one light source located on a first side of a document path and arranged to transmit light around the document path to a second side of the document path, the second side being opposite the first side. Optical detectors are located on the first side of the document path and arranged to receive light sent from the light source and passing through the document transport path.
A system and method for discharging a selected product into a dispensing chamber of a vending machine are provided. In the system and method of this disclosure, a selected product from a vending machine is received in a product delivery cup. The product delivery cup is moved to a dispensing chamber of the vending machine. Near the dispensing chamber, the product delivery cup moves in a horizontal direction which causes or activates a delivery cup sleeve within the product delivery cup to pivot or move from a non-dispensing position to a dispensing position. The dispensing position of the delivery cup sleeve releases the selected product from the delivery cup sleeve to the dispensing chamber where a consumer is able to access the selected product.
B65G 47/14 - Dispositifs pour alimenter en objets ou matériaux les transporteurs pour alimenter en objets à partir de piles d'objets en désordre ou de tas d'objets en vrac disposant ou présentant les objets par des moyens mécaniques ou pneumatiques durant l'alimentation
A system and method for providing a satellite vend operation. A first (parent) vending machine is operable to dispense a product from a product storage display area located in a second (child) vending machine. The first (parent) vending machine can control or interact with the functions of the second (child) vending machine. A programming menu on the first (parent) vending machine is automatically configured for a satellite vend operation when the first (parent) vending machine pairs with the second (child) vending machine. An operator is provided, in the programming menu located on the parent vending machine, relevant information associated with the child vending machine and relevant information associated with the parent vending machine.
G06F 17/00 - TRAITEMENT ÉLECTRIQUE DE DONNÉES NUMÉRIQUES Équipement ou méthodes de traitement de données ou de calcul numérique, spécialement adaptés à des fonctions spécifiques
A value sheet store from which value sheets may be dispensed. The value sheet store includes a housing having an aperture from which value sheets are dispensed, and a shutter operable to block the aperture. The aperture may be at least partially defined by at least one roller. The shutter may be formed to interleave with the aperture to block the aperture. The shutter may also be formed to interleave with the roller. The value sheet store may be adapted to be removably engageable with a value sheet transporter for transporting sheets to or away from the store. The value sheet store may be configured so that the shutter blocks the aperture when the value sheet store blocks the aperture when the value sheet store and the transporter are not engaged and unblock the shutter when the value sheet store and the transporter are engaged.
An apparatus for use with a store for storing value sheets in a stack having at least one variable dimension. In one aspect, the apparatus can include a plate that is adapted to engage the stack for movement therewith in the direction of the variable dimension. The apparatus can also include an indicator that is disposable between a first, operational position and a second, rest position. The plate engages the indicator such that the indicator alternates between the rest position and the operational position in response to crossing of a predetermined position by the plate.
B65H 1/08 - Supports ou magasins pour les piles dans lesquelles on prélève des articles avec moyens pour faire avancer la pile en vue de présenter les articles à un dispositif d'enlèvement
A multi media payment device includes a banknote acceptor and a RF card reader, and also may include a magnetic card reader. A bezel assembly for connection to the bill acceptor preferably includes a reader unit to read magnetic swipe cards and contactless chip cards.
G06F 7/08 - Tri, c. à d. rangement des supports d'enregistrement dans un ordre de succession numérique ou autre, selon la classification d'au moins certaines informations portées sur les supports
68.
Vending machine user interface guide; electronic coin return; and hinged delivery bin
A system and method for directing a consumer through a vending machine transaction. The system and method include a UI guide comprising visual cues to direct a consumer to insert a minimum amount of money, make a production selection and confirm the product selection. The system and method provide for the consumer to cancel the transaction and request that return of inserted coins.
A vending machine includes first and second release mechanisms mounted to front portions of adjacent shelf dividers extending along a product shelf and establishing a product queue. A product transport system is arranged in the cabinet to carry a selected product container from the product queue towards a delivery chamber. A drive mechanism, operatively connected to each of the first and second release mechanisms, is mounted to an underside of the product shelf to simultaneously shift the first and second release mechanisms in order to release a selected product to the product transport system.
Methods and systems for detecting a state of a field asset using a packet capture agent is disclosed. A method may include capturing one or more packets transmitted on a shared bus in a field asset and determining the occurrence of a door event based at least one the one or more captured packets.
G06F 3/00 - Dispositions d'entrée pour le transfert de données destinées à être traitées sous une forme maniable par le calculateur; Dispositions de sortie pour le transfert de données de l'unité de traitement à l'unité de sortie, p.ex. dispositions d'interface
G06F 13/00 - Interconnexion ou transfert d'information ou d'autres signaux entre mémoires, dispositifs d'entrée/sortie ou unités de traitement
71.
Systems and methods for data acquisition and transmission
In a system for a field asset site having a plurality of field assets, a first transport module interfaces with a first field asset, the first transport module operable to communicate via a first transport with a communication center outside of the field asset site. A second transport module interfaces with the first field asset. A third transport module interfaces with an associated field asset and is operable to communicate via a second transport to the second transport module. Each of a plurality of audit devices interfaces with an associated field asset from which operation data is acquired by the audit device. Each of a plurality of routing modules interfaces between an associated field audit device and at least one of the second transport module and the third transport module, with each routing module operable to provide transport-agnostic communication between its associated audit device and at least one of the communication center and another audit device.
G06F 15/16 - Associations de plusieurs calculateurs numériques comportant chacun au moins une unité arithmétique, une unité programme et un registre, p.ex. pour le traitement simultané de plusieurs programmes
H04L 12/66 - Dispositions pour la connexion entre des réseaux ayant différents types de systèmes de commutation, p.ex. passerelles
G06Q 20/20 - Systèmes de réseaux présents sur les points de vente
G07F 5/18 - Mécanismes actionnés par des pièces de monnaie; Verrouillages spécialement adaptés pour commander d'un même point plusieurs appareils déclenchés par des pièces de monnaie
G07F 9/02 - Dispositifs pour donner l'alarme ou une indication, p.ex. quand l'appareil est vide; Aménagements publicitaires des appareils déclenchés par des pièces de monnaie
G07F 11/00 - Appareils déclenchés par des pièces de monnaie pour distribuer ou délivrer d'une façon analogue, des articles d'une façon discontinue
H04L 29/08 - Procédure de commande de la transmission, p.ex. procédure de commande du niveau de la liaison
72.
Systems and methods for monitoring performance of field assets
A system and method for monitoring performance of field assets are disclosed. A method may include transmitting packets on a shared bus located in a field asset may be captured. The captured packets may be analyzed to determine one or more operational parameters associated with one or more peripheral devices coupled to the shared bus. The one or more operational parameters may be analyzed to determine an operational efficiency of the field asset.
A coin sensor performs time-domain eddy-current testing using an inductance in one arm of a Maxwell bridge which is driven by a bipolar square wave having randomly-selected intervals between transitions, the output of the bridge being sampled at a high frequency. A processor stores a model which receives the drive signal and adjusts coefficients of the model so that the output matches the sampled measurements. Acceptance criteria are applied to the adjusted coefficients for coin classification purposes.
G07F 9/08 - Décompte total des pièces de monnaie introduites
G06F 7/00 - Procédés ou dispositions pour le traitement de données en agissant sur l'ordre ou le contenu des données maniées
G06F 9/00 - Dispositions pour la commande par programme, p.ex. unités de commande
G06F 19/00 - Équipement ou méthodes de traitement de données ou de calcul numérique, spécialement adaptés à des applications spécifiques (spécialement adaptés à des fonctions spécifiques G06F 17/00;systèmes ou méthodes de traitement de données spécialement adaptés à des fins administratives, commerciales, financières, de gestion, de surveillance ou de prévision G06Q;informatique médicale G16H)
A lighting system for a vending machine is provided. The lighting system includes an LED light source extending along a first inner surface of the vending machine and a reflective surface extending along a second inner surface of the vending machine. The reflective surface is capable of reflecting light emitted by the light source in one direction in order to provide light to the interior of the vending machine from multiple directions.
A remote data acquisition and transmission system for vending machines may be provided. The system may comprise a vending machine and at least one host device. The vending machine may comprise a vending machine controller; and an Internet Protocol (IP) network interface operable to communicate operation data to and from the vending machine controller. The at least one host device may be communicatively coupled to the IP network interface via at least one IP network, and the host device may be operable to communicate operation data to and from the IP network interface.
G06Q 20/00 - Architectures, schémas ou protocoles de paiement
H04L 29/08 - Procédure de commande de la transmission, p.ex. procédure de commande du niveau de la liaison
G06G 1/14 - Dispositifs de calcul manipulés manuellement dans lesquels une ligne droite ou une ligne courbe doit joindre des points donnés sur une ou plusieurs échelles d'entrée à un ou plusieurs points sur une échelle de résultat
G07F 19/00 - Systèmes bancaires complets; Dispositions à déclenchement par carte codée adaptées pour délivrer ou recevoir des espèces ou analogues et adresser de telles transactions à des comptes existants, p.ex. guichets automatiques
A vending machine includes a cabinet having a product storage zone and a product delivery mechanism that transports a selected product to a consumer. The vending machine includes a door assembly pivotally mounted relative to the cabinet for selectively providing access to the product storage zone. The door assembly includes an outer, exposed surface and an inner surface that are spaced to define an inner door zone including a vertical drop zone that terminates in a delivery area. A portal is formed in the inner surface of the door assembly and leads from the product storage zone into the door zone. A discharge element is provided on the inner surface of the door assembly and cooperates with the product delivery mechanism to dispense the selected product through the portal as the product delivery mechanism moves past the portal.
An apparatus, method and vending system mixes a dry product mix with liquid to produce a mixed beverage. The apparatus includes a product canister containing the dry product mix. The product canister includes a dispensing mechanism that dispensed a portion of the mix through an outlet. During dispensing, a plurality of agitators positioned within the product canister and in contact with the product mix displaces the product mix, thereby keeping the product mix loose and lifted and resulting in a more evenly distributed product mix feed for dispensing through the outlet.
A dual heater element for heating a liquid for use in a vending apparatus is provided. The heater element includes two elements. A first heating element is operable for use at a conventional first operating voltage or range (e.g., 120 VAC) while a separate second heating element is operable for use with a conventional second operating voltage or range (e.g., 230 VAC). A first pair of terminals coupled to the first heating element and a second pair of terminals coupled to the second heating element are selectively and/or interchangeably connected to a pair of line voltage terminals. The configuration of the line voltage electrical system and the use of a heater element with dual elements each operating (normal operation) at different voltages or voltage ranges allows the vending apparatus to be manufactured without variation in components and enables dual voltage source operation for two different line voltages (e.g., line voltage supply is either 120 VAC or 230 VAC).
H05B 3/60 - Dispositions pour le chauffage dans lesquelles le courant de chauffage circule dans un matériau granuleux, en poudre ou fluide, p.ex. pour fours à bains de sel, chauffage électrolytique
B67D 7/80 - Aménagements des dispositifs de réchauffage ou de refroidissement des liquides à transférer
79.
Automatic cup detection and associated customer interface for vending apparatus and method therefor
A vending machine automatically detects the size of a customer-selected container or cup placed in the dispensing area of the vending apparatus to receive a dispensed beverage. A plurality of sensors positioned proximate the container receiving area detects the container's size (e.g., small/large; small/medium/large). In response, the vending machine conveys or illuminates to the customer one or more of the available beverage selections (provided by the vending machine) indicating which of the beverage selections is available based on the detected cup size.
G06F 17/00 - TRAITEMENT ÉLECTRIQUE DE DONNÉES NUMÉRIQUES Équipement ou méthodes de traitement de données ou de calcul numérique, spécialement adaptés à des fonctions spécifiques
80.
System for whipping a fluid slurry and method therefor
An apparatus, method and vending system mixes a dry mix with water to produce a whipped fluid slurry for a beverage. The mixing apparatus includes an inlet for receiving an unwhipped fluid slurry and an outlet for discharging the whipped fluid slurry. A whipping chamber is connected to the inlet for whipping the unwhipped fluid slurry and further includes an impeller that induces fluid turbulence to produce the whipped fluid slurry when the impeller rotates above one or more indentations in the surface of the whipping chamber.
A vending machine includes a product detection system for signaling a vending controller that a selected product has released from a product support shelf. The vending machine includes a product delivery device that, upon initiation of a vending operation, transports the selected product from the product support shelf towards a delivery area. Upon initiation of a vending operation, a motor moves a product delivery device to a position adjacent the selected product. A dispensing mechanism then releases the selected product which falls into the delivery device, imparting a downward force which is sensed at the motor. A sensor detects the downward force and signals the vending controller that the product has been received by the product delivery device. At this point, the vending controller continues with the vending operation.
G07F 11/10 - Appareils déclenchés par des pièces de monnaie pour distribuer ou délivrer d'une façon analogue, des articles d'une façon discontinue sortant de magasins fixes dans lesquels les articles sont stockés verticalement l'un au-dessus de l'autre plusieurs de ces magasins ayant une glissière de distribution commune
B65H 5/00 - Transfert des articles retirés des piles; Alimentation des machines en articles
82.
Rich content management and display for use in remote field assets
A field asset such as a vending machine includes a coin acceptor, a bill validator, and a card reader all operatively connected to a shared bus. A rich content display device displays color graphics and an extended function adapter (EFA) coupled to the shared bus includes a rich content agent (RCA) to manage rich content displayed on the display. The RCA may include a content management agent (CMA) coupled to a rich content player that executes rich content file for display on the display device. The EFA may include a cashless agent to generate procedural state information. The CMA detects the procedural state information and controls the presentation of rich content on the display device based at least in part on the detected procedural state information. The EFA may include an analytic agent to determine a substantive state of the vending machine including an inventory state and an environmental state.
G06F 7/08 - Tri, c. à d. rangement des supports d'enregistrement dans un ordre de succession numérique ou autre, selon la classification d'au moins certaines informations portées sur les supports
83.
Currency cassette capacity monitoring and reporting
An indicator, such as an alarm or warning, is generated to indicate that a document storage cassette attached to a document handling device (e.g., a currency validator) has reached a particular capacity or is approaching its full capacity.
B65H 43/00 - Utilisation de dispositifs de commande de vérification ou de sécurité, p.ex. dispositifs automatiques comportant un élément pour détecter une variable
G06F 7/00 - Procédés ou dispositions pour le traitement de données en agissant sur l'ordre ou le contenu des données maniées
Tracking information in a note handling facility, such as an amusement gaming facility, involves, in some implementations, communications between components of the system to facilitate tracking the location and movement of note acceptors and cassettes for storing notes. Such components can include host machines, note acceptors, cassettes for storing notes, databases, and/or note counting machines. RF tag chips can be embedded in or mounted to some of the components to facilitate the communications. RF tag readers can be provided at appropriate locations within the facility to facilitate reading information from and writing information to the RF tag chips.
G06F 7/08 - Tri, c. à d. rangement des supports d'enregistrement dans un ordre de succession numérique ou autre, selon la classification d'au moins certaines informations portées sur les supports
G07D 11/00 - Dispositifs acceptant des pièces de monnaie; Dispositifs acceptant, distribuant, triant ou comptant des papiers de valeur
G07F 7/04 - Mécanismes actionnés par des objets autres que des pièces de monnaie pour déclencher ou actionner des appareils de vente, de location, de distribution de pièces de monnaie ou de papier-monnaie, ou de remboursement par du papier-monnaie
A method of controlling a banknote store comprising at least one winding means and at least one elongate support means which can be wound and/or unwound from the winding means for storing and/or transporting a banknote, comprises determining the radius or diameter of a spool comprising at least the winding means using the degree of rotation of the winding means and the corresponding linear amount of movement of the elongate support means.
Means for superposing a bundle of value sheets which have been misfed from a value sheet store is disclosed. Also disclosed is a value sheet handler which includes a first value sheet store for receiving value sheets from, and dispensing value sheets to, a user and a second value sheet store where the second value sheet store provides value sheets to resupply the first value sheet store. The handler may include means for detecting a misfeed from the second value sheet store and a bundle of misfed value sheets may be stored in a third store after superposition of the bundle, where it includes overlapping value sheets.
B65H 83/00 - Combinaisons d'opérations d'empilage et d'enlèvement d'articles, p.ex. simultanées, présentant un intérêt autre que l'opération individuelle d'empilage ou d'enlèvement des articles
A store for storing value sheets such as banknotes in a stack and for dispensing the value notes from the stack. When more than a single value sheet is dispensed from the stack, the store returns all but one of the value sheets to the stack while moving the stack to reduce friction between the returning value sheet and the topmost value sheet of the stack. Means for securing the stack are also provided: a support for the stack is anchored and/or extra pressure is applied to the stack. The store includes means for indicating when the stack contains more than a predetermined number of value sheets and means for preventing securing of the store when the predetermined number of value sheets is exceeded. A value sheet store with part of a sidewall integrally formed with the lid. A value sheet store which includes a lid attached to a housing by a hinge located on an edge of the housing. Apparatus and a method for determining the height of a stack of value sheets. A shutter arrangement in a value sheet store which acts to block an aperture through which value sheets are dispensed.
A method and system are provided for estimating consumer demand at remotely located equipment and establishing dispatch schedules for servicing the remotely located equipment. Data from the remotely located equipment may be classified into a hierarchy or various levels of reliability for use in calculating a consumer demand estimate for each product and/or each service available at the remotely located equipment. A full set of sales data for each product or service over multiple time intervals with no equipment problems, no out of stock conditions and no other operating problems may be classified as the highest level of reliability and predictability possible for calculating a consumer demand estimate. The lowest level of data used to calculate a consumer demand estimate may be a historical average of daily sales for all products or services sold over a long period of time at the remotely located equipment.
A product delivery system for a vending machine includes first and second guide rails and a carriage rail. The guide rails are fixedly mounted in the vending machine spaced from and parallel to each other and extend along respective first and second axes. The carriage rail extends along a third axis and includes first and second ends that are slidably connected to the respective ones of the first and second guide rails. A carrier member is slidably mounted to the carriage rail for movement along the third axis. A first drive belt is coupled to the carriage rail and a first drive motor to selectively shift the carrier member along the third axis. A second drive belt, extending in multiple axes, is connected to each of the first and second ends of the carriage rail and a second drive motor. The second drive motor selectively shifts the carriage rail along the first and second axes upon driving the second drive belt.
B65H 3/44 - Enlèvement des articles de plusieurs piles, simultanément, alternativement ou sélectivement
G07F 11/00 - Appareils déclenchés par des pièces de monnaie pour distribuer ou délivrer d'une façon analogue, des articles d'une façon discontinue
G07F 11/12 - Appareils déclenchés par des pièces de monnaie pour distribuer ou délivrer d'une façon analogue, des articles d'une façon discontinue sortant de magasins fixes dans lesquels les articles sont stockés verticalement l'un au-dessus de l'autre avec moyens permettant de passer automatiquement sur des piles de réserve
A coin dispenser includes a coin canister that automatically locks into the dispenser. A remotely operated mechanism may unlock the canister from the dispenser. The dispenser may serve as a loading stand for the canister. The canister may be adapted for manual loading of coins into the canister without removing the canister from the dispenser. The canister may include a receptacle for coins and an aperture adapted to facilitate loading coins into the receptacle and to retain coins in the receptacle. The canister may include a repositionable handle that covers an aperture of the canister in one position and serves as a carrying handle in another position. A system for dispensing coins includes a controller electrically connected to a coin dispenser. The dispenser includes a coin canister and a latch that locks the canister to the dispenser. The controller can send an electrical signal that unlocks the canister.
A vending machine includes first and second integrated dispensing systems mounted at front portions of adjacent product shelf dividers establishing at least first, second and third product queues. Each of the first and second dispensing systems includes first and second release mechanisms having a plurality of hinged plates supported by a frame. The plurality of hinged plates are selectively shifted into and out of corresponding ones of the first, second and third product queues, such that each product queue has associated therewith two opposing release mechanisms. Preferably, at least one of the first and second release mechanisms for each dispensing system includes a queue spacing member which is mounted to one of the hinged plates and projects into the product queue to establish a desired spacing between the release mechanisms.
A vending machine includes first and second release mechanisms mounted to front portions of adjacent shelf dividers extending along a product shelf and establishing a product queue. A product transport system is arranged in the cabinet to carry a selected product container from the product queue towards a delivery chamber. A drive mechanism, operatively connected to each of the first and second release mechanisms, is mounted to an underside of the product shelf to simultaneously shift the first and second release mechanisms in order to release a selected product to the product transport system.
A product discharge and delivery system for a vending machine includes a product delivery cup including a carriage portion and a shroud portion having an open bottom section and a discharge element. After receiving a selected product, the product delivery cup is shifted toward a dispensing chamber causing the discharge element to engage with a discharge member mounted within the vending machine. Engagement of the discharge element and discharge member causes the shroud portion to pivot relative to the carrier portion exposing the open bottom section allowing a selected product to release into a dispensing chamber. A delivery port is mounted in the dispensing chamber that rotated between a product receiving position and a product delivery position.
A cassette for storing bills is described. The cassette includes a shutter, a link which engages the shutter; and a helicoidal drive shaft which engages the link. As the cassette is inserted or removed from a chassis, an actuator fixed to the chassis actuates the drive shaft such that the shutter opens or closes. In some embodiments, the cassette may prevent persons without proper authorization from accessing bills inside the cassette.
A first sensing means, which may form part of a banknote authenticator, is used to determine the profile of, for example, at least the leading edge of a banknote. Actuators located elsewhere in the banknote handling machine are operated in accordance with the outputs of other sensors, after taking the measured profile into consideration, so as to correct for errors due to the banknote being damaged in the area sensed by the other position detectors.
G07F 7/04 - Mécanismes actionnés par des objets autres que des pièces de monnaie pour déclencher ou actionner des appareils de vente, de location, de distribution de pièces de monnaie ou de papier-monnaie, ou de remboursement par du papier-monnaie
B65H 7/02 - Commande de l'alimentation en articles, de l'enlèvement des articles, de l'avance des piles ou d'appareils associés permettant de tenir compte d'une alimentation incorrecte, de la non présence d'articles ou de la présence d'articles défectueux par palpeurs ou détecteurs
B65H 7/06 - Commande de l'alimentation en articles, de l'enlèvement des articles, de l'avance des piles ou d'appareils associés permettant de tenir compte d'une alimentation incorrecte, de la non présence d'articles ou de la présence d'articles défectueux par palpeurs ou détecteurs sensibles à la présence d'articles défectueux ou à l'enlèvement ou à une alimentation incorrecte
96.
Document processor with optical sensor arrangement
An apparatus for document processing comprises an optical sensor including a light source, a light detector and an optical element. The optical sensor is adapted so that, during operation of the apparatus, at least a first portion of light from the source that enters the optical element travels along paths in the optical element so as to be re-directed by total internal reflection toward the detector and wherein the total internal reflection is maintained when the optical element is wet. Signals form the optical sensor may be used to determine, for example, the state of a document storage cassette or the location of a document with respect to the cassette.
G06K 5/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour vérifier l'exactitude du marquage sur un support d'enregistrement; Dispositifs de localisation de colonne
G06K 11/00 - Procédés ou dispositions pour la lecture d'un graphique ou pour transformer la configuration de paramètres mécaniques, p.ex. une force ou une présence, en signaux électriques
H01J 3/14 - Dispositifs pour la focalisation ou la réflexion du rayon ou du faisceau
97.
Product positioning mechanism for a vending machine
A positioning mechanism for a vending machine is provided to properly align product containers for vending purposes. The vending machine includes a cabinet that establishes a product storage zone, a product delivery zone and a dispensing chamber. Arranged within the product storage zone are a plurality of shelves which include dividers that separate the shelves into a plurality of product queues. Each product queue includes an dispensing mechanism that releases a selected product from the product queue for delivery to the dispensing chamber. In addition, each product queue includes a positioning mechanism to align products in the product queue. The positioning mechanism includes a support member secured to the divider and a spacer bar pivotally secured to the support member. The spacer bar automatically adjusts to a width of a product container placed in the product queue in order to assure proper alignment of the product for dispensing.
An assembly includes a currency cassette, a pressure plate, and a plurality of gears rotatably connected to at least two opposite edges of the pressure plate. In an implementation, a plurality of substantially parallel racks are configured to engage a plurality of the gears.
B65H 31/10 - Récepteurs de piles avec support d'extrémité mobile disposé pour reculer au fur et à mesure que la pile se forme les articles étant empilés les uns sur les autres et par le sommet de la pile
99.
Method and system for predicting the services needs of remote point of sale devices
A method, system and apparatus for identifying malfunctioning remote devices, such as point of sale devices, are disclosed. In operation, a performance history for one or more remote devices is built and a normal operating day is determined from the performance history. Also extracted from this performance history are average and variance values for various aspects of satisfactory remote device performance. During remote device evaluations, the current operating performance of each remote device is compared with the normal day and the average and variance values for the respective remote device. For remote devices operating outside of the normal day, average and variances values, a likelihood estimate that the remote device is actually malfunctioning is calculated. For remote devices determined likely to be malfunctioning, an approximation of the remote device's losses are made such that the remote device with the greatest losses may be prioritized for maintenance or other purposes.
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