Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02475848 2004-08-27
TOKEN HAVING PI~EDETEI~MINED OI'1'ICAL CHARACTERISTICS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
. 'Ilae present invention relates to token validation devices wherein the
term:
"token"~is intecided to mean metal currency, coins, metal and non-metallic
tokens or
a combination thereof which function as a substitute for valid coins or
currency,
transparent or opaque tokens or a combination thereof, disk shapes being
preferable,
and indlusive in the term "token" is virtually any element used; as a form of
currency
oc as a substitute therefore.
BACKGROUND OF THE tNVENTION
The variety of "genuine" coins~utilized in the marketplace is extremely
diverse
because each, government makes an attempt ~to keep their own form of currency
or
value of exchange unique enough to distinguish from that issued 6y others.
"Genuine" tokens utilized in the marketplace are also diverse for the same
.reason,
namely, to allow one specific proprietor to distinguish its genuine
tokenJtokens from
the tokenltokens of another. Such tremendous diversity in genuine coins and
genuine
tokens. indirectly pressures manufacturers, be they governments or private
individuals,
to produce coin and token validation devices which are designed flexible
enough so
that They may be field configured to accept and validate for invalidate) the
widest
possible variety of coins or tokens, genuine or counterfeit. To that. end, the
body of
validation design knowledge and products are replete with methods for dealing
with
different metallurgies and sizes of coins. However; with the combination of
increased
world travel and increasing number of issuing establishments, particularly
gaming
casinos, there has become an ever increasing need for additional
distinguishable
characteristics to prevent cross-play of unwanted, though genuine, tokens, and
the
total accurate elimination of counterfeits. The ability of simple combinations
of useful
CA 02475848 2004-08-27 . ~.~_ . '
alloys and token sizes to satisfy the needs of the casino market has long been
exhausted.
DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART
To address the market 'need for more distinguishable tokens, there have been
two noteworthy developments in token fabrication technology. First, tokens
with
minted optical codes, such as those disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,046,841
and
5,216,234, have been marketed for use with coin validation devices capable of
reading such .optical codes. Second is the development of bimetallic and
trimetallic
tokens in which an inner metal disk portion of the token is made of one
metallalloy
which differs from the metal/alloy of one or more outer annular rings, as
described
in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,094,922 and 5,630,288. While rnulti-metal tokens have
long
since made their debut in the marketplace, they have been primarily produced
for ease
of visual discrimination via the use of two differently colored metals.
Although
inductive sensing has long been used to validate metallic tokens of all types,
there has
been little done to take advantage of the mufti-signature nature of mufti-
metal tokens.
In order to make minted optical codes practical, it is required that minted
reflective facets be distributed in an annular band that is substantially
radiaily
orientation independent of token orientation so that tokens may be deposited
in the
coin validator without concern for radial orientation. The latter is disclose,
for
example; in U.S. Patent No. 5,046,841. However, this distribution causes the
relative angular relationship of minted facets presented to an associated
optical code
reader of the validator, as the coin passes the optical code reader, to be
dependent on
the lateral offset of the coin path relative to optical code reader position.
It can be
mathematically shown that the token path with the least sensitivity to small
variations
in lateral offset is the token path which is centered on the optical code
reader. In
other words, the optimum token path of the token is the one wherein the center
of the
2
~ 02475848 2004-08-27~ , .. .. .
token is guided by the coin chute to pass over the center of the optical code
reader.
Similarly, in the case of mufti-metal tokens, it is likewise true that the
optimum path
of token travel to take full advantage of the inductive signatures of the
individual
metal/metal alloy components arranged in concentric annular bands with respect
to an
associated token would be the one where the center of the token is guided by
the coin
chute to pass over the center of the inductive sensor and wherein the
inductive sensor
is physically small enough so that separate responses can be generated with
respect
to different metal alloy areas of the token. Accordingly, no matter the
specifics of
the sensors, be they inductive, light-sensitive (reflective or transmissive),
or both.
maximum sensitivity and accuracy is achieved when sensing is centered on a
center
line of a token path defined by the movement of the token center therealong.
Thus, apart from the present disclosure, the importance of controlling the
path
of the token to ensure sensing is substantially coincident with the path of
the token
center lacks disclosure in known prior art, including not only the latter-
noted patents;
but such disclosures as found in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,437,558; 4,441,602;
4,488.116;
4,601;380; 4,705,154; 3,596,744; 4,448, 297; 5,293.98~ and 5.439,089: Such
patents disclose inductive sensors having a fixed reference relative to an
edge of an
associated token or coin which is forced against an edge of an associated
chute or a
chute which is fully encompassed/surrounded by a wound coil which
automatically
dismisses from consideration the lateral position of an associated token
moving along
the chute.
In addition to the issue of precise token sensing and the location of token
sensors with respect to token travel, the present disclosure also resolves
potential
problems associated with purely annular or radial facets of the type disclosed
in U.S.
Patent No. 5,046,841 and 5,216,234. Counterfeit tokens or counterfeit coins
(slugs)
can be produced with annular or radial facets by, for example, using a cutting
toot
and a common lathe to cut annular rings into the surface of a metal disk
(slug) or by
3
. . _ . ;. ,
CA 02475848 2004-08-27 ~ ~ ,~', _ .. . '~' .. " ~ .
pressing a softer metal disk (such as a lead disk) into the surface of a
"valid" or
"genuine" coin or token and produce a mirror image of the annular facets
thereof.
Although a mirror image is created by the latter "counterfeit" pressing
operation.
symmetrical facet structures will in most cases produce mirror image facets
that are
the same as the original.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a novel and unobvious validation device having
adjustable guide edges for selectively adjusting the width of an associated
token chute
to adapt the validation device for use with a wide variety of different token
diameters
such that the position of associated sensors are maintained substantially
fixed along
the center of the token chute and the center of the token passing
therethrough. This
arrangement provides for configuration flexibility in the field and the
ability to
optimally and reliability sense properties of the tokens that are
substantially radially
symmetrically disposed about the tokens.
Furthermore, the tokens include facets having skewed orientations that are
other
than 0° or 90° relative to a radial line which essentially
eliminates the possibility of
making counterfeit faceted tokens on a lathe or by pressing a soft metal
against a valid
token. Moreover, such facets are additionally arc-shaped or curved along their
length
relative to a chord associated with each facet. Accordingly, the combination
of sensor
location along token center travel and specifically angled, skewed and arc-
shaped
token facets virtually preclude simple forms of counterfeiting and assures
repetitive
and reliable validation.
In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the
sensors
are desirable fixed relative to a token chute through which tokens travel with
each
token center travelling along a center line of a path of travel coincident
with sensor
detection. Preferably, sensors are located on the line of travel of the token
center at
4
..._ .. , ~ 02475848 2004-08-27
opposite sides of the token chute as either optical sensors; inductive
sensors, or pairs
thereof which allow the detection of tokens having one or more annular bands
of
skewed facet optical codes and/or one or more bands of differing metal alloys.
Thus,
tokens travelling through the.token chute can be accurately sensed optically
and/or
inductively.
Preferably, the plurality of facets associated with each token have the
property
of a facet wherein the effective surface normal of the facet is aligned along
a
predetermined vector angle with an elevation angle preferably between
30° and 60°
and an azimuthal angle other than substantially along a radial line of the
token or
substantially along a line tangent to an annular ring centered on the token.
Irrespective of the precise optical characteristics or the angles of the
facets, each facet
lies in an annular band substantially along a chordal line of the token with
each facet
being curved or arc-shaped with respect to its associated chordal line.
The validation device or apparatus includes a token chute having edge guides
spaced a predetermined distance from each other corresponding substantially to
the
diameter of a token passing through the chute. The latter structure ensures
that each
token center moves along a path substantially one-half the distance between
the edge
guides. First token characteristic sensing means and/or second token
characteristic
sensing means are provided for sensing respective first and second token
characteristics during token movement along the token path. The sensing means
sense
each token substantially along the token center whereby on-axis or on-center
token
sensing is effected. The latter sensing means are located on one side or both
sides of
the token chute, and the distance between the edge guides is changed by moving
the
edge guides toward each other without changing the point of token sensing,
namely.
along the center line of the centered token,path of travel. Preferably, one of
the first
token characteristic sensing means senses an optical property of the token and
the
-. .. _ ,, , ~CA 02475848 2004-08-27 _ ' . , - . ,,
other of the token characteristic sensing means senses an inductive property
of the
token.
The token testing or validating device of.the present invention also includes
means for adjusting the thickness of the chute to accommodate testing tokens,
coins
or the like of different thicknesses.
The validation or testing apparatus of the present invention also includes
opposite walls defining the chute of which at least one wall is constructed
from
transparent material, one of the sensing means includes a light source for
emitting
light toward a token passing through the chute, and the transparent wall
includes an
in-situ formed lens for directing (fight rays at a predetermined angle toward
light-
sensing means to thereby detect optical characteristic of associated tokens.
The token testing/validation device preferably includes one or more tight
sources, lenses and light-sensing means at each of opposite sides of the
chute, and the
a
sensing means can be selectively located to detect different optical
characteristics
(different codes) of different tokens.
In further accordance of the invention, a circuit is provided which is
responsive
to associated sensors for generating an acceptance output signal through a
plurality of
conductor pins of a circuit board. In order to facilitate direct interface of
the token
acceptor to a variety of token operated devices, such as slot machines,
vending
machines etc., provision is made within the token acceptor enclosure to
include one
of a variety of electric plug conversion adapters, each of which plug onto the
plurality
of conductor pins. and each of which provide a second connector specific to
the needs
of one of the token operated devices.
CA 02475848 2005-08-22
There is provided, in accordance with one aspect of the
present invention, an apparatus for testing tokens of varied
diameters comprising opposite walls in part defining a chute
through which a token is adapted to pass, a pair of spaced
token edge guides between said opposite walls and further
defining therewith said chute, said edge guides being spaced
a substantially predetermined distance from each other
corresponding substantially to the diameter of the token
passing through said chute whereby each token axis moves
along a center line of a centered token path of travel
corresponding to substantially one-half said substantially
predetermined distance, first token characteristic sensing
means for sensing a first token characteristic during token
movement along said token path, said first token
characteristic sensing means being constructed and arranged
for sensing each token substantially along said token path
center line whereby on-axis token sensing is effected, and
means for changing the perpendicular distance between said
edge guides while maintaining token path center line sensing
thereby adapting the same testing apparatus for sensing
tokens of different diameters.
There is provided, in accordance with another aspect of the
present invention, an apparatus for testing tokens of varied
sizes comprising opposite walls in part defining a chute
through which a token is adapted to pass, a pair of spaced
token edge guides between said opposite walls and further
defining therewith said chute, said edge guides being spaced
a substantially predetermined distance from each other
corresponding substantially to the diameter of a token
passing through said chute whereby each token axis moves
along a center line of a centered token path of travel
corresponding to substantially one-half said substantially
6a
CA 02475848 2005-08-22
predetermined distance, first token characteristic sensing
means for sensing a first token characteristic during token
movement along said token path, said first token
characteristic sensing means being constructed and arranged
for sensing each token substantially along said token path
center line whereby on-axis token sensing is effected, and
means for selectively changing the spacing between said
opposite walls.
There is provided, in accordance with yet another aspect of
the present invention, an apparatus for testing token of
varied sizes comprising opposite walls in part defining a
chute through which a token is adapted to pass, said chute
having an entrance end and a discharge end, one of said
opposite walls having a plurality of relatively shallow
narrow token guide ribs thereon, ends of said guide ribs
being disposed contiguous along said entrance end, and a
wall at least partially overlying protecting selected ones
of said rib ends to prevent damage to said rib ends upon
insertion of tokens into said entrance end.
There is provided, in accordance with yet another aspect of
the present invention, an apparatus for testing tokens of
varied sizes comprising opposite walls in part defining a
chute through which a token is adapted to pass, first token
characteristic sensing means for sensing a first token
characteristic during token movement along said token path,
said first token characteristic sensing means being
constructed and arranged for sensing each token
substantially along a token path center line of said token
path whereby on-axis token sensing is effected, at least one
of said opposite walls being transparent, light source means
for emitting light through said transparent wall toward said
6b
CA 02475848 2005-08-22
chute, said transparent wall including in situ formed lens
means for directing light rays at a predetermined angle to
thereby properly impinge upon tokens moving through said
chute, and means for sensing light emanating form each token
during movement thereof along said token path.
There is provided, in accordance with yet another aspect of
the present invention, an apparatus for testing tokens of
varied sizes comprising opposite walls in part defining a
chute through which a token is adapted to pass, first token
characteristic sensing means for sensing a first token
characteristic during token movement along said token path,
said first token characteristic sensing means being
constructed and arranged for sensing each token
substantially along a token path center line of said token
path whereby on-axis token sensing is effected, each of said
opposite walls being transparent, light source means for
emitting light through said transparent walls, each of said
transparent walls including in situ formed lens means for
directing light rays at a predetermined angle to thereby
properly impinge upon tokens moving through said chute, and
means for sens-ing light emanating from each token during
movement thereof along said token path.
There is provided, in accordance with yet another aspect of
the present invention, an apparatus for testing tokens of
varied sizes comprising opposite walls in part defining a
chute through which a token is adapted to pass, first and
second token characteristic sensing means for sensing
different first and second token characteristics during
token movement along said token path, said first and second
token characteristic sensing means being located for sensing
sequential first and second token characteristics of each
6c
CA 02475848 2005-08-22
token substantially along a token path center line of said
token path whereby on-axis token sensing is effected, and
means for adjusting the size of said chute without altering
the position of said token path center line and without
altering the position of said first and second token
characteristic sensing means relative to said token path
center line.
6d
. _ CA 02475848 2004-08-27 ' ~ ' -
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIGURE 1 is a top plan view of a token constructed in accordance with this
invention, and illustrates two annular code areas or surfaces each provided
with a
plurality of skewed and arc-shaped facets therein.
FIGURE 2 is an enlarged cross sectional view taken through the center or axis
of the token of Figure l, and illustrates opposite faces with the two annular
code
surfaces shown in Figure 1 being replicated in a lower face of the token of
Figure 2.
FIGURE 3 is a top plan view of another token constructed in accordance with
this invention; and illustrates a central circular disk formed from a metallic
alloy, an
annular metallic ring having a plurality of skewed and arc-shaped facets
therein. an
annular ring of transparent material having a plurality of arc-shaped facets
therein.
and an outermost annular metallic alloy ring.
FIGURE 4 is an enlarged cross sectional view taken through the axis of the
a
token of Figure 3, and illustrates the various component thereof including
facets in
both upper and lower faces of the innermost two annular rings of the token.
FIGURE 5 is a top plan schematic view of the token of Figure I , and
illustrates
a protective guard bead between the pair of annular bands of facets to provide
protection thereof.
FIGURE 6 is an enlarged axial cross sectional view taken through the axis of
the token of_Figures 1 and 5, and illustrates the relationship of the guard
beads to the
facets of the token.
FIGURE 7 is a highly enlarged fragmentary cross sectional view taken through
adjacent facets of any of the tokens of Figures 1-6, and illustrates details
thereof.
FIGURE 8 is a schematic fragmentary view of a geometrical layout of a token
and a single annular facet band, and diagrammatically illustrates the geometry
associated with laying out and fabricating the facets in the annular band.
~ ' CA 02475848 2004-08-27 - ~ . . . -
FIGURE 9 is a front perspective view of a novel validation device or apparatus
for testing tokens in accordance with the present invention, and illustrates a
token
positioned for descent through a chute formed betv~!een opposite pivotally
connected
front and rear housings of the validation device.
FIGURE 10 is a rear perspective view of the token testing apparatus of Figure
9, and illustrates the rear housing carrying a rear circuit boardlsensing
housing, a coil
for actuating a gate, an opening in a metallic mounting plate of the rear
housing. a
pivotally mounted spring-biased cam and a cam surface portion;of the front
housing
projecting through the opening to release token jamming, and a step adjustment
mechanism between the front and rear housings for accommodating tokens of
different
thicknesses.
FIGURE 11 is an exploded perspective view of the token testing apparatus of
the invention, and illustrates a transparent cover exposing a rear circuit
board of the
rear housing carrying a light source, light sensing means and a sensing coil
,adjacent
a transparent token chute-defining wall, a similar transparent token chute-
defining wall
of the front housing having focusing lens and a pair of interchangeable edge
guides
for adapting the token. testing apparatus for testing tokens of different
diameters.
FIGURE 12 is an exploded perspective view of the token testing apparatus, and
illustrates interiors of both the rear housing and the front housing, a main
circuit
board carried by the front housing carrying a light source, light sensors and
a sensing
coil, and a transparent front cover which is slidably removed from and
applied. to the
front housing.
FIGURE 13 is a top plan view of the. token testing apparatus, and in phantom
outline illustrates the manner in which the front housing can be pivoted away
from the
rear housing to gain access to the interior of the token testing apparatus.
FIGURE 14 is a cross sectional view taken generally along line 14-14 of Figure
13, and illustrates light sensors and inductive sensors carried by the front
and rear
s
W . CA 02475848 2004-08-27 ,. ,
circuit boards, and curved lenses of the transparent chute-defining walls for
focusing
light rays to scan token facets as a token drops through the token chute.
FIGURE 15 is a highly enlarged cross sectional view taken generally along line
15-15 of Figure 13, and illustrates the location of the light source, light
sensors, lens
and the inductive sensor or coil essentially along a token path center line
defining the .
center of the token/coin chute along which travels the axis of each token
guided
during its descent by the opposite edge guides of the taken chute.
FIGURE 16 is a fragmentary front elevational view of a light and inductive
sensing area of the main or front circuit board with the construction of the
rear circuit
board sensing area being identical, and illustrates a light source carried'by
a light
source holder and a pair of detectors carried. by a pair of identical detector
holders fit
into a substantially circular opening of the circuit board.
FIGURE 17 is a perspective view of one of several identical light source and
detector or sensor holders, and illustrates the generally pie-shaped or wedge-
shaped
configuration thereof.
FIGURE 18 is a highly enlarged cross sectional view taken generally along tine
18-18 of Figure 15, and illustrates the manner in which light rays are focused
by lens
upon and reflected by lens from facets of the token for sensing/validating the
same
depending upon specific facet or code parameters.
FIGURE 19 is a fragmentary perspective view of a portion of the main circuit
board, and illustrates a plurality of conductor pins thereof to which can be
selectively
plugged any one of several electrical converter plugs to accommodate the
testing of
a specific token associated with a specific .acceptor mechanism, such as a
specific.
casino slot machine of a specific manufacturer to accommodate the required
physical
and electrical connector interface associated with a specific brand or style
of slot
machine or vending machine.
_ ~ . . CA 02475848 2004-08-27 '- ' - . .
FIGURE 20 is a simplified electrical schematic, and illustrates a circuit for
testing tokens and activating a gate relay to pass validated/accepted tokens
along an
"accept" path of the token testing apparatus:
FIGURE 21 is a schematic perspective view of another validation device, and
illustrates a pair of pivotally connected front and rear housings with the
front housing
carrying slidably adjustable token guides spaced a maximum distance from each
other.
FIGURE 22 is a schematic perspective view of another validation device, and
illustrates a pair of pivotally connected front and rear housings with the
front housin~,~
carrying slidably adjustable token guides spaced a minimum distance from each
other.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
A novel token constructed in accordance with this invention is illustrated in
Figures 1, 2, S, fl and 7 of the drawings and is generally designated by the
reference
a
numeral I0. w
The term "token" is used predominantly herein to mean genuine or valid metal
currency, coins, metallic and/or nonmetallic tokens or disks or a combination
thereof
of the same or different alloys, or transparent or opaque tokens, or a
combination
thereof which are a substitute for valid coins or currency, such as tokens
used in
casino slot machines or at gaming tables, or for car washes, automotive
parking area
gate opening acceptors, etc. Such "genuine" tokens are ofttimes counterfeited,
thlts
at times herein the term "token" might well mean a. counterfeit coin or
counterfeit
tokens, slugs of all kinds, and virtually any element used as a form of
counterfeit
currency. The context will clearly distinguish between a "genuine" token and a
"counterfeit" token. Accordingly, the intent is that of not only providing a
"genuine"
token which can be readily, accurately and repetitively verified as such, but
essentially
cannot be easily reproduced and can be accurately distinguished from
"co~interfeit"
tokens. However, throughout this disclosure the token 10 and other tokens
disclosed
t
CA 02475848 2004-08-27
herein will be described structurally and in terms of verification in the
sense of being a
"genuine" token.
The token 10 of Figures 1 and 2 is preferably made from metallic or metallic
alloy material and is therefore totally opaque, and an outermost
circumferential or
peripheral surface 11 imparts a circular or disk-like configuration to the
overall token
10. Opposite generally circular faces or surfaces 12, 13 of the token 10
define
therebetween an innermost central circular portion 14 having a center or axis
A which
also defines the center A of the overall token 10, an innermost annular
portion or band
15, a next innermost annular portion or band 16, and an outermost annular
portion or
band 17. The circular portion 14 and the annular band 17 at each of the
opposite faces
12, 13 lack any type of surface configurations which are specifically designed
for
detection/verification, although these surfaces can include desired indicia,
such as the
value of the token, the name/address of the "owner" thereof, such as a
particular
casino, the manufacturer, etc.
In keeping with the present invention, the token 10 includes in each of the
annular portions, surfaces or bands 15, 16 a plurality of means 18, 19,
respectively, in
the form of reflective facets with each facet 18, 19 being defined by surfaces
S l, S2
(Figure 7) with each facet being inclined at substantially
45°(~2°) relative to the faces
or surfaces 12, 13 and/or to a line Fl perpendicular to the faces or surfaces
12, 13.
Each included facet comer Fc defined between adjacent surfaces S1; S2 includes
a
maximum radius of .005" and the distance d between adjacent facet corners Fc
is
0.020" minimum and 0.025" maximum. The surfaces S1, S2 axe polished to SPE/SP1
2 or better. Preferably the facet corners Fc defined by adjacent facet
surfaces Sl, S2
lie below a plane taken through the surfaces or faces 12, 13, and preferably
an annular
protective guard bead 20 (Figures 5 and 6) is located between the annular
bands 1 S, 16
with a plane through the uppertxiost surface ,(unnumbered) of the guard bead
20 lying
in the corresponding plane of the surfaces 12, 13. The guard beads 20 thereby
protect
the highly polished surfaces S 1, S2 of the facets - 18, 19 preventing
abrasion,
marring, dings, etc. The guard beads 20 on opposite faces 12, 13 of the token
10
1I
f
CA 02475848 2004-08-27
also physically separate the annular bands 15, 16 such that the facets 18, 19
of the
respective annular bands 15, 16 can be readily distinguished.
Each facet 18 or 19 is specifically oriented with respect to a radial line AB
(Figure 8) emanating from the center A of the token 10 and a line EF (Figure
8)
intersecting AB at point X of the particular band (16 in Figure 8) under
consideration. The radial line AB and the line EF define an included angle 8
of
15° increments as measured in a clockwise direction relative to the
radial line
AB. The angle 8 in Figure 8 is approximately 60° [15°x 4
(multiple) = 60°]. This
orients each facet in skewed relationship to the radial line AB. In other
words,
none of the facets 18 or 19 lie upon any radial lime AB of the token 10, but
instead are in substantially tangential relationship to a chord of the token
10,
which chord corresponds to the angular orientation of the line EF. However, in
accordance with the invention, each facet is not only skewed relative to
radial
line AB of the token 10, but the chordal relationship along the line EF is
also
curved or arc-shaped along a curved line or arc G-H which passes through the
center point X of the band 16. In order to obtain the curved or arc-shaped
line
G-H, a line DC is drawn normal to the line EF passing through the center point
X
and an arc AC is then drawn with the center point X as the radius. The point C
of
intersection of the lines DC, AC becomes the axis for the arc-shaped line or
curve
G-H which passes through the center point X of the band 16. Thus, a 60°
skewed
(chordal) facet is defined substantially along the chord line EF but is also
arc-
shaped or curved along the curved or arc-shaped line G-H. This produces a
single facet, and the token 10 must then be repositioned for fabricating the
next
succeeding facets by rotating the token about its axis A by a rotation angle
RA
defined by the equation:
RA = Tari 1 d
(AX}(cos8}
12
CA 02475848 2004-08-27
where d is the perpendicular distance between adjacent facet corners or peaks
Fc
(Figure 7) and AX is the length along the radius R o~r the radial line AB
between
the token center A and the center point X of the annular band 16.
The peak to peak perpendicular facet distance d must be chosen so that
360° is evenly divisible by the rotation angle (RA). Thus, no matter
whether the
facets 18 are formed in the annular band 15 or the facets 19 are formed in the
annular band I6, as just described, characteristic of all of the facets 18, 19
is their
skewed (chordal) orientation disposed substantially along a chord which is
also
curved with respect to an arc passing through a center point X midway between
the inner and outer diameters, di and do, respectively (Figure 8), of the
specific
annular band involved.
Reference is made to another token IO° of Figures 3 and 4 which
has
identical though primed reference numerals applied thereto to identify
structure
corresponding to that heretofore described relative to the token 10. However,
the
token 10' is constructed not as a one-piece metallic alloy token, such as the
token
of Figures l, 2, 5, 6 and 7, but instead an innermost central circular portion
14'
is a disk of metal or metal alloy surrounded by another annular band 15' of
metal
(opaque) material, which in turn is surrounded by a transparent annular band
16'
of plastic material and in turn is surrounded by an annular band 17' of
metallic
material or a metallic alloy which differs in its inductive signature from
that of
the metallic disk 14'. As will be noted further herein, the metallic alloy
disk I4'
and the annular band 17' are inboard of an outermoe~t peripheral surface I 1'
and
can be sensed/tested inductively whereas the annular bands 15', 16' can be
tested
or sensed optically reflectively (opaque) and optically transmissive
(transparent),
respectively, while the metallic alloy annular band 15' can also be sensed
inductively. However, the respectively opaque and transparent facets 18', 19'
are
constructed in accordance with the description of the fabrication of the
facets
heretofore described specifically relative to Figure 8.
13
CA 02475848 2004-08-27
As may be appreciated from the foregoing descriptions, there are
numerous possible code configurations and embodiments possible based upon
relative location of the bands, number of annular bands, skew angle of facets
in
the bands or metal composition of the bands, and implementation of the facets,
be they reflective, refractive, or diffractive.
A novel apparatus or device for testing and/ar validating tokens, such as
the tokens 10, 10' or the equivalent thereof, is fully illustrated in Figures
9-19 of
the drawings, and is generally identified by the reference numeral 50. The
token
testing apparatus or validation device 50 includes a rear housing 51 (Figures
9
and 10) and a front housing 101 (Figure I I).
The rear housing 51 includes a main mounting and support plate 52
(Figures 9-12) constructed from relatively rigid though bendable metallic
material which includes a relatively polygonal o:r rectangular rear wall 53
having formed therein a square or polygonal opening 54 (Figure 12), thereabove
a generally polygonal opening 55 having an arcuate surface or edge 56, a
rectangular opening 57 (Figure 12), and a narrow inclined rectangular opening
58 (Figures 10-12). The support plate 52 includes laterally spaced side walls
61, 62 bent into generally parallel relationship and with the side wall 62
being
further bent at upper and lower ends (Figure 12) into flanges 63, 64 having
identical pivot pin receiving openings 65. The side walls 61, 62 also include
three identical threaded openings 66 through 68 (Figure 12) into any two of
which can be threaded screws 70, 71 (Figure 10). T:he screws 70, 71 are shown
threaded into the respective threaded openings 67, 68 of each side wall 61, 62
which adapts the token testing apparatus or token validation device 50 to be
snap-fit into bayonet slots (not shown) of a compatible bracket of a token
operated device (also not shown), such as a casino slot machine. The bayonet
slots of such a casino slot machine permit the validation device 50 to be
readily
snapped into and removed from the' bracket. Brackets for different token
operated devices typically have slots located at two of the three different
14
CA 02475848 2004-08-27
positions, thus the reason for the three threaded openings 66-68 in each of
the
side walls 61, 62. The screws 70, for example, can be removed from the
threaded openings 67 and then can be threaded into the openings 66 to
accommodate the validation device 50 for utilization with a different slot
machine with a bracket having differently spaced bayonet slots.
An upper edge portion 72 of the support plate 52 is bent outwardly and in
part defines an entrance opening O at the top of the validation device 50
(Figures 9 and 10) through which the token 10 (Figure 9), for example, can be
inserted/dropped for travel along a generally vertical token path of travel
identified by the vertical headed arrow P in Figures 12 and 15. The center A
of
the token 10 is guided in a manner to be described hereinafter substantially
centered along the token path of travel P and the token path of travel P lies
substantially along the centers of optical and inductive sensing means with
such
accurate movement of the token 10 along the path P being controlled by a pair
of guide edges or guide ribs (112, 113; 131, I3I in Figure 11) which are in
turn
spaced from each other a distance substantially that of the token diameter, as
will be described more fully hereinafter. Counterfeit tokens descending along
the token path of travel P are sensed not to be valid, strike a plurality of
gate
fingers 73 of a pivotally mounted gate 74 which project through the
rectangular
opening 58, and are angulated or inclined to deflect invalid/counterfeit
tokens to
the right, as viewed in Figure 12, along the dot/dash headed arrow associated
therewith. The gate 74 is pivotally mounted to a bracket 75 which is in turn
connected to the rear wall 53 of the support plate :52. The pivotally mounted
gate 74 is biased by a spring 76 to the position shown in Figures 10 and 12
with
the fingers 73 thereof projecting through the opening 58 and into the token
path
of travel P to deflect invalid, fraudulent and/or counterfeit tokens or coins
to the
right, again as viewed in Figure 12. However, upon the sensing of a valid
token
or coin 10, through appropriate sensing means, circuitry, etc. to be described
hereinafter, a coil 77 secured to the bracket 75 is energized and draws the
gate
CA 02475848 2004-08-27
74 against the bias of the spring 76 pivoting the gate fingers 73 out of the
token
path of travel P and valid/genuine tokens 10 continue vertical descent
therealong into an appropriate receptacle (not shown) of the acceptor
mechanism (slot machine or the like).
A rear sensing and circuit housing 80 is constructed of transparent plastic
material and includes a bottom wall 81 (Figures 12 and 14) of which a
rectangular portion 82 is aligned with the rectangular opening 57 (Figure 12)
of
the rear wall 53. A peripheral wall 83 of the rear sensing and circuit housing
80
has oppositely directed flanges 84 and 85 (Figure II) for matingly; slidingly
engaging opposite side channels (not shown) of a transparent cover 86 which
can be removed from the position shown in Figures 9 and 10 by simply sliding
the cover 86 upwardly to the position shown in Figure I1 and vice versa. A
circuit board 90 (Figures 11 and 14) is supported in substantially spaced
parallel
relationship to the transparent bottom wall 81, and the circuit board 90
carries
first token characteristic sensing means 91 (Figures I 1, 12 and 14) for
sensing a
first token characteristic during token movement along the token path P and
second token characteristic sensing means 92 for sensing a second token
characteristic during token movement along the token path P. The first sensing
means 91 includes an optical sensing system which includes as part thereof in
situ lens means 93 (Figures 12 and 14) and a plurality of optical element
holder
detents 249 arcuately spaced 1 S° from each other in a "sunburst"
pattern in situ
molded during the molding of the housing 80 in the rectangular portion 82 of
the bottom wall 81 thereof. The rectangular portion 82 of the bottom wall 81
also has integrally in situ molded therein a shallow cylindrical cup-shaped
recess 94 (Figure 14) in which bottoms or seats the second token
characteristic
sensing means 92 which is a conventional inductive sensing coil. The specifics
of the circuit board 90, the sensing means 91, 92 and the lens 93 will be
described more fully hereinafter.
16
CA 02475848 2004-08-27
The bottom wall' 81 (Figure 12) also includes four relatively narrow
parallel ribs 96 (Figures 12 and 13) which project into and through the
rectangular opening 57 (Figure 12) and are essentially in parallel
relationship to
the token path of travel P. The ribs 96 provide minimal contact with each
token
I O during its descent and prevent scuffing of the optical surfaces by the
passing
token.
The front housing 10l is constructed substantially entirely from
transparent material and includes a front wall 102 (Figures 11, 14 and 15),
and a
peripheral wall 103 including opposite vertical side walls (unnumbered) having
oppositely . directed flanges ( 104, 105) which slidably mate with channels
(unnumbered) of a transparent front cover 106 (Figures 9, 10, 11, 12 and 14)
which can be removed by sliding upwardly from or reinserted by sliding
downwardly upon the flanges 104, 105. An upper rearwardly projecting portion
107 of the front cover 106 includes a tapering slot or groove 108 and two
rearwardly projecting fingers 110, 111 which are in generally parallel
relationship to each other. With the transparent cover 106 closing the front
housing 101, the projecting fingers 110, 111 thereof are in overlying
protective
relationship to uppermost end portions (unnumbered) of the respective token
edge guides or ribs 112, 113 (Figure 11). The distance between the ribs 112,
113 establishes the maximum diameter of a token 10 which can pass through the
validation device 50 when the housings 51, I01 are closed relative to each
other, as, is illustrated in Figures 9, 10, 13 and 14 of the drawings. The
front
housing 101 is preferably pivotally secured to the rear housing 51 by
identical
screws 114 (Figures 10 and 1I) passing through the openings 65 of the flanges
63, 64 and threaded into threaded openings 115 (Figure 12) in upper and lower
corner walls (unnumbered) of the peripheral wall 103. A spring 1 I6 (Figures
11-13) is conventionally secured to the rear wall >3 (Figure 12) of the rear
housing 51 and by a screw 117 (Figure 11) to the _E'ront wall I02 of the front
housing 101 which normally holds the housings 51, 1O1 closed (Figures 9, I0,
17
CA 02475848 2004-08-27
13 and 14), though pivoting movement to an open position, as shown in
phantom outline in Figure 13, for inspection and to relieve token jamming is
readily accommodated.
The entire front housing 101, excluding the front cover 106 and a circuit
board 190, is of a one-piece molded plastic construction, preferably
copolymeric/polymeric synthetic plastic material, such as transparent
polycarbonate. Integrally molded as part of the overall front housing 101 and
principally the front wall 102 thereof are four generally parallel ribs 196
(Figures 11 and 15), an inclined rectangular recess 1.58 (Figures 11, 14 and
15),
a wall portion 118 having a cam or camming surface 120, lens means or lens
193, a circular cylindrical cup-shaped recess 194 (:Figures 1l, 14 and 15) and
slots or recesses 122 (Figures I1 and 15) in the token edge guides 112, 113.
The parallel ribs 96; 196 are vertically aligned in opposing spaced pairs, and
defined therebetween is a token chute TC (Figures 13-15) extending vertically
downwardly from the opening O along which the tokens I O pass during sensing,
detection, validation and sorting (acceptance/rejection).
It is highly desirable to alter a variety of the physical characteristics of
the validation device 50 in the field, as for example, changing the width W
(Figure 15) of the token chute TC, as measured normal to the guide ribs 112,
113, and the depth or thickness T (Figure I4) of the token chute TC, as a
measurement of the space between the ribs 96, 196 to accommodate
coins/tokens 10 of different thicknesses.
As is best illustrated in Figures 11 and 15 of the drawings, chute width
changing means I30 are provided for changing the perpendicular distance
between the edge guides 112, 113 while at the same time maintaining the center
of token path P of the token chute TC centered on sensing means 91, 92, 191
and 192. In Figure 15 the normal distance between the edge guides 112, 113
corresponds to the maximum diameter of a token 10 which can pass along the
token chute TC and be essentially guided by the edge guides 112, 113. In
Figure
18
CA 02475848 2004-08-27
15 a relatively small diameter token i 0 is illustrated and if unguided the
same
would not fall with its center A maintained substantially coincident to the
path P
because its peripheral edge 11 would not contact the edge guides ,112, 113:
However, by utilizing the chute width changing means 130, the width or
distance
W can be changed and specifically changed equal distances from each of the
ribs
112, 113 so that no matter the diameter of the token 10 its center A will at
all
times descend along and in coincidence with the center line path of travel P
of the
token which, of course, Lies along the centers of sensing of the sensing means
91,
92 and 19I , 192.
The chute width changing means 130 is in the form of equally sized edge
guides members, ribs or bars 131 (Figure 1I) of one-piece injection molded
polymeric/copolymeric synthetic plastic material each having pairs of
connecting
bars or fastening detents I32 opposite guide surfaces I33 of the guide ribs
131.
Since the width of the guide ribs 131 are the same, when each guide rib 131 is
snap-secured with its fastening detents 132 in the slots 122, the width W of
the
token chute TC (Figure 1 S) is reduced identical distances from each side and
thus,
each guide surface 133 is spaced an identical distance from the token sensing
center line or token path P and sensing again will occur along the token
center A
as the token IO descends through the token chute TC. In Figure 15, a pair of
the
guide ribs 131 are illustrated in phantom outline snap-secured by the
fastening
detents 132 in the slots 122 of the guide ribs I 12, 113. This places the
guide ribs
or guide bars 131 with their opposing guide surfaces I33 a distance Wt from
each
other which corresponds to the diameter of the token 10 illustrated in Figure
15.
Each of the guide surfaces I33 is, of course, spaced substantially the exact
distance from the token center Line path of.travel P, and thus the token 10.
will
descend with its peripheral edge 11 contiguous the guide surfaces 133, 133 as
a
consequence of which its center A is in coincidence with the path P.
Obviously,
the thickness of the bars 131, 131 can be varied but varied equally so that no
matter the pair of bars snap-inserted into the slots, 122, the distance
between
19
CA 02475848 2004-08-27
each opposing guide surface 133 and the path P of token axis travel is
identical.
Thus, edge guides, ribs or bars 131 of lesser or greater width than those
illustrated in Figures 11 and 1 S can be similarly utilized to readily and
rapidly
field-change the width of the token chute TC to accommodate validation of
tokens 10 of differing diameters, again without altering in any fashion
sensing
by the sensing means 91, 92, 19I, 192 along the center A of the token 10, or
any
other tokens of differing diameters, as they descend along the center line P
through the token chute TC.
The means for selectively varying the thickness T of the token chute TC
to accommodate tokens 10 of different thicknesses is generally designated by
the reference numeral 140 (Figures 9, I0, II and I3) and includes a
substantially L-shaped or J-shaped member defined by a central portion 141, a
Ieg I42 normal thereto, and a return radius portion 143 defining a channel
(unnumbered} having an innermost or bight surface 144. A locking detent 145
projects toward the central portion 141. The side wall 6I of the rear housing
51
includes a downwardly tapering edge I46 (Figures 9-11) along which are
located a plurality of circular openings 147 equally spaced from each other.
The member 140 is slipped upon the side wall 61 such that the central portion
141 is innermost and the detent 145 is outermost with the bight surface 144
contacting the edge 146. The front wall I02 of the front housing I01 abuts
against the flange 142 (Figure 1 S) and is held in this abutting position by
the
spring 116. Since the edge 146 is tapered toward the bottom of the side wall
61,
the depth or thickness T of the token chute TC will be established at a
minimum
when the detent 145 is in the lowest of the openings 147, whereas the
thickness
T of the token chute TC will be the greatest when the detent 145 is in the
highest of the openings 147. Thus, by selectively moving the thickness
adjusting member 140 along the edge I46 and positioning the detent 145
selectively in one of the openings 147, the inwardly spring-biased pivoting
position of the front housing 101 is fixed which in turn essentially fixes the
CA 02475848 2004-08-27
distance T between the ribs 96, 196 (Figure 14) to accommodate the token chute
TC for tokens of different thicknesses, again absent any change in center-line
sensing as tokens of virtually any thickness descend along the center Iine
path
or center line token sensing path P.
As will ofttimes occur, tokens IO can jam within the validation device
SO during descent through the token chute TC for a variety of reasons, and in
order to unjarri tokens and restore operation absent damage to the validation
device SO or any of its components, means generally designated by the
reference
numeral 220 (Figures 10 and 1I) are carried by the plate S2 of the rear
housing
S 1 for cooperation with the camming surface I20 of the wall portion 118 of
the
front wall 102 of the front housing 10I. The anti jamming means 220 includes a
metallic plate 221 pivotally connected by a pivot 222 to the wall S3 and is
spring-biased to the position illustrated in Figures 10 and I I by a
conventional
torsion spring 223 having an end (unnumbered) bearing against the underside of
a finger tab 224. A guide tab 22S (Figure 12) is struck from the plate 221 and
projects into the opening SS in riding overlying relationship to the back side
of
the plate S3 along the edge 56 of the opening SS (Figure I2). A cam portion
226 of the plate 22I is located just below an upper edge (unnumbered) of the
opening S4 and in alignment with the cam surface 120 of the front housing 101
when the validation device SO is closed (Figure 10). The wall portion II8
projects a substantial distance through the opening S4 of the wall S3 (Figure
10)
when the housings S1, 101 are closed, and therefore a.substantial portion of
the
camming surface 120 similarly projects rearwardly beyond the cam 226 of the
plate 221. If tokens jam the token chute TC, the pivot 222 is simply depressed
which pivots the plate 22I clockwise (Figure IO) bringing the cam portion 226
down against and along the camming surface 120 causing the front housing 101
to progressively pivotally open about the pivot pin; 114 and against the bias
of
the spring 116 thereby widening/opening the token chute TC and releasing
jammed coinsltokens therein.
z1
CA 02475848 2004-08-27
Reference is now made specifically to Figures 15, 16 and 17 of the
drawings which illustrate details of respective cooperative means 230 and 250
for mounting the sensing means 191, I92 relative to the associated circuit
board
190, and the structure hereinafter immediately described applies equally to
the
sensing means 9I, 92 (Figure 12) and the circuit board 90 (Figure 14) thereof.
The circuit board 190 includes cooperative means 230 which is a circular
opening except for a generally radial leg 231 descending from the twelve
o'clock position of the cooperative means 230 and terminates in a rounded end
232 which includes an axis Sa which is the axis of the cooperative means 230
and also lies on the token centerline path P along which the center A of each
token 10 descends as it moves through the token chute TC under the influence
of gravity (Figure 15). A plurality of lead openings 233 are formed through
the
circuit board 190 for purposes to be described more fully hereinafter. A pair
of
lead openings 234 are also formed through the circuit board 190 into which
project leads 235 of the sensing means 192 having an end (unnumbered)
received in the recess 194 of the front wall 102 (Figure I8) of the front
housing
101. A central axis Ia defines the axis of the sensing means 192 which also
lies
on the axis of token travel defined by the path axis P.
The cooperative means 230 of the circuit board 190 houses at least two
cooperative means 250, one for carrying a source of radiant energy and the
other
for carrying a radiant energy detector, but irrespective of the number of
radiant
energy detectors employed, which can vary, the cooperative means 250 for bath
the radiant energy source and the radiant energy detector or detectors is
identical. Each cooperative means 250 (Figure 17) is generally of a pie-shaped
or wedge-shaped configuration having a narrowest innermost radial face 251
which can be substantially flat or slightly concavely curved, a radially
outboardmost larger convexly curved surface 252, convergingldiverging faces
253, 254 and end faces 255, 256 through which pass a bore/counterbore 257. A
radial foot 258 projects from the end face 255 and functions to abut against
and
22
CA 02475848 2004-08-27
seat in an accurately located slot 249 (Figure 15) of the transparent wall 102
to
accurately locate the holder in the opening 230 and also relative to the lens
means
193, as will be described more fully hereinafter. The seating of one such
radial
foot 258 relative to a radial locating slot 249 of the wall 102 is illustrated
in
Figure 18. A circumferential ledge 259 seats against the opposite surface
(unnumbered) of the circuit board 190, as is shown in Figure 18. Thus, the
radial
foot 258, the radial locating slot 249, and the circumferential ledge 259
accurately locate each holder 250 spatially with respect to the lens means and
the
path P.
The bore 257 of each holder 250 is precisely bored and counterbored
(Figure 18) to accurately receive and locate therein at least one light source
emitting or generating means 260 (6 o'clock position in Figure 16) and at
least
one light source sensing means 26I (8 o'clock position in Figure I6), though
further light source sensing means 262 (4 o'clock position in Figure 16) can
be
provided to collectively sense multiple bands 15, I6 (Figures 1 and 2) of
facets
18, 1-9, respectively, arcuately spaced differing from each other by at least
l5°, as
was earlier described. The light source emitting or generating means 260 can
be
a conventional light emitting diode, such as a Siemens SFH 409 infra red LED
in
a T-I plastic package, whereas the light source sensing means 261 and/or 262
is a
matched photodetector, such as a Siemens silicon NPN phototransistor model
SFH 309. Pairs of leads (unnumbered) of the light source emitting or
generating
means 260 and the light source sensing means 261, 262 are inserted in the lead
openings 233, soldered and define portions of verification circuitry generally
designated by the reference numeral 300 in Figure 20 of the. drawings which
will
be described more fully hereinafter. Suffice it to say that the axis Sa
corresponds
to the axis of development of the lens 193 or the lens axis La (Figure 15),
and as
light is emitted from the light source emitting or generating means 260
(Figure
I6) it passes through lens 193 but the light reflected back from the facets
18, 19
of a particular taken 10 will only be received by the light source sensing
means
23
CA 02475848 2004-08-27
261 or 262 if the reflective facets of token 10 are perpendicular to a line L2
bisecting the optical axes of the light source emitting or generating means
260
and the light source sensing means 261, as viewed in Figure 16, and
perpendicular to the parallel rays emanating from far side of in situ molded
lens
193 toward the token 10, as viewed in Figure 18. Thus, as is best illustrated
in
Figure 18, the curvature (unnumbered) of the lens 193 depicts light traveling
through the lens 193, being refracted thereby to impinge upon the facets 18,
19
at a 90°angle thereto and being reflected from each token facet once
again back
along line Ll to the light source sensing means 261 (and/or 262). A genuine or
valid token 10 thus sensed will through the circuit 300 of Figure 20 result in
the
coil 77 being energized to pivot the gate 74 allowing the coin/token 10 to
! continue along its "acceptance" path P to a coin/token reservoir.
The circuit 300 of Figure 20 is representative of the functionality of a
single optical sensor validation device, whereas multiple optical sensor
devices
are created by duplicating the LED drive circuitry and placing additional
phototransistors in parallel with Q3. A single microcontroller distinguishes
between optical sensors by knowing which LED has been activated. Preferably
there are two light source emitting or generating means 260 and one light
source
sensing means 26I on each side of the token chute TC. The microcontroller
first
turns on transistor Q4 to discharge transistor Cl. Then transistor Q4 is
turned
off and transistor Q2 is turned on and causes current to flow through the
light
source emitting or generating means D2 (260) thus emitting light through the
lens I93 into the token chute TC. If a token 10 is present and positioned so
that
its facets I8 or I9 are coincident with the light emanating from lens 193 and
if
the facets are perpendicular to the line bisecting the optical axes of the
light
source emitting or generating means 260 and the light source sensing means 26I
as viewed in Figure 16, and perpendicular to the parallel rays emanating from
far side of in situ molded lens 193 toward the token 10 as viewed in Figure
18,
then a significant portion of the light will be reflected back through lens
193 to
24
CA 02475848 2004-08-27
the light 'source sensing means Q3 (261). Photocurrent proportional to the
received light will flow through phototransistor Q3 into C 1 causing the
voltage
on C 1~ to rise at a rate proportional to the photocurrent and therefore
proportional to the received light intensity. The relative intensity of the
reflective light is inversely proportional, to the time i takes to charge a
capacitor
Cl to the reference voltage Vref of a conventional comparator U2. The output
of the comparator U2 is monitored by the microcontroller Ul and the time taken
to charge the capacitor Q2 to Vref volts is measured by the microcontroller
U1.
The latter generates a signal to turn on the transistor Ql if the token/coin
is
acceptable resulting in the gate relay Kl corresponding to coil 77 being
activated. The gate 74 is pivoted to its open position permitting the accepted
coin/token 10 to continue on its vertical path P toward deposit in a
coin/token
reservoir.
Conventional circuitry is utilized for each of the sensing means 92, 192,
once again sensing along the token axis path of travel P and any conventional
sensing circuitry, such as that disclosed in the aforementioned patents, can
be
utilized to sense the annular band 17 or the innermost central portion 14 or
both
of the token 10, or the similar separately formed innermost central circular
portions 14' and the annular band 17' of the token 10'. Suffice it to say that
due
to travel of any of the tokens 10, 10', etc. with the center A thereof at all
times
moving along the vertical token path of travel P of the token chute TC, as
established by half the distance by any of the guide ribs 112, 113, 133, 133,
accurate reliable validation is continually achieved by the validation device
50
of the present invention.
Due to the fact the validation device 50 is readily adapted for sensing,
testing and validating a variety of tokens differing in diameter, thickness,
transparency and/or opaqueness, alloy content, etc., the same can be utilized
with many different coin/token operated devices either in retrofit
applications or
for different original equipment manufacturers. However, the circuitry 300
CA 02475848 2004-08-27
must interface with all coin operated devices in a manner which allows one
standard acceptor to emulate the electrical interface of other older
acceptors,
most of which have different electrical plug connectors. This could be done by
time consuming rewiring of the various token operated devices to mate with the
chosen electrical plug connector style chosen for the token acceptor of this
invention. However, to avoid such laborious, tirxie consuming and ofttimes
difficult adaptation, the present invention includes as part of the
verification
circuitry 300 novel electric plug connector means (Figures I2 and 19)
generally
designated by the reference numeral 400 for accommodating the output of the
circuit 300 forming part of the circuit board 190 for utilization with various
coin/token operated devices. The electric plug connector means 400 includes a
circuit board 401 with appropriate circuitry thereon (not shown) which
accommodates the specific electrical connector 403 for utilization with a
particular token operated device. , The electrical plug connector means 400
includes a female pin connector 402 which can be connected to pins 300' of the
circuit 300 of the circuit board 190. An electrical connector 403 is
connectable
to a specific coin/token operated device. Thus, no matter the "acceptance"
signal transmitted through the pins 300' of the circuit 300, the specific
coin/token operated device will be properly activated through the personality
plug 400. Thus, the personality plug 400 is utilized as an adaptor for
assuring
proper validation with a specific coin/token acceptor, but for another OEM
coin/token acceptor another personality plug is provided including the
identical
plug connector 402, but appropriate different circuitry associated with the
circuit board 401 and a different electrical connector 403 for "personalizing"
the
validation device to such other coin/token operated device. Therefore, by
providing a half dozen or so specifically designed electrical plug connector
means 400 with differing circuits 401 and connectors 403, the validation
device
50 is adapted for utilization with the vast majority of coin/token operated
devices principally utilized in today's commercial environment.
26
CA 02475848 2004-08-27
Reference is made to Figures 21 and 22 of the drawings in which front and rear
housings 101', 51', respectively, are illustrated in pivoted relationship to
each other with
respective light and inductive sensing means 91' and 92' being
diagrammatically shown
associated with the front housing 101', though identical light and inductive
sensing
means can also be associated with the rear housing S 1'. 1-lowever, in lieu of
chute width
changing means 130 of Figure 11, comparable token edge guiding means 130' are
provided in the form of individual guide ribs 131' each having legs or flanges
132'
slidably received in slots or openings 129' of the front wall 102' of the
front housing
101'. Fasteners 119' are selectively threaded through threaded holes
(unnumbered) in
the flanges 132' and bottom against the wall 102' to lock the individual
guiding ribs 131'
at desired perpendicular distances from each other, at all times each being
spaced an
identical perpendicular distance from the center line or token path of travel
Pl. Thus,
large diameter tokens (Figure 21) or small diameter tokens (Figure 22). can
equally be
validated during passage thereof past the sensors 91', 92' with the axes of
such tokens at
all times traveling along the vertical token path of travel P1.
27
