GB2375647A - Apparatus for testing tokens of varied sizes - Google Patents

Abstract

Apparatus for testing tokens of varied sizes comprises opposite walls in part defining a chute trough which a token is adapted to pass. The chute has an entrance end 108 and a discharge end. one of the opposite walls 102 has a plurality of token guide ribs 196 thereon and the ends of the guide ribs are disposed contiguous along said entrance end 108, and a wall 106 at least partially overlies and protects selected ones of said rib ends to prevent damage to said rib ends upon insertion of tokens into said entrance end 108. The said wall may in part define a token entrance slot at said chute entrance end 108. The wall 106 may be a removable cover which can be removed from said chute. The wall 106 may include an inclined token guiding surface for directing tokens away from said rib ends and towards another of said opposite walls. The width of the chute may be adjusted and its depth may be adjusted by having its walls pivotally connected. The chute may have a transparent wall which has an integral lens for use by an optical sensor for on-axis token sensing. There is also disclosed a token for use with token operated devices.

Description

Apparatus for testing tokens of varied sizes FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to token validation devices wherein the term "token" is intended 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 inclusive in the term "token" is virtually any element used as a form of currency or as a substitute therefore.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

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 by others.

"Genuine" tokens utilized in the marketplace are also diverse for the saline reason, namely, to allow one specific proprietor to distinguish its genuine token/tokens from the token/tokens of another. Sucl 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 (or 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

:: :: i:::: 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 Title 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 bimetallic tokens in which an inner metal disk portion of the token is node of one metal/alloy which differs from the metal/alloy of one or more outer annular rings, as described in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,O94,922 and 5,630,288. While multi-metal tokens have long since made their debut in the marketplace, Ploy 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 multi-signature nature of multi-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 radially 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

:: token is guided by the coin chute to pass over the center of the optical code reader Similarly, in the case of multi-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 Title 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; 5,293,980 and 5,439,089. Surly 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 tool and a common lathe to cut annular rings into the surface of a metal disk (slug) or by

::: 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 rise 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 tl e 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-shapecl 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-shal ecl 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 throttle which tokens travel with each token center travailing 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

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opposite sides of the token cl ute 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 travailing through the token chute can be accurately sensed optically ancl/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 Title 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-l alf the distance between tl e 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 onaxis 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 clanging 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 s

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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 tl e 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 light 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 light sources, lenses and light-sensing means at each of opposite sides of the chute, and the 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.

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- i - -! -.,,,,,,,,.,,, j, all; a: 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 1, 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 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.

::;:: Aft:::: Hi:: 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 between 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 board/sensing housing, a coil for actuating a gate, an opening in a metallic mounting plate of the rear housing, a pivotally mounted springbiased 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 tl e 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 howling, a main circuit board carried by the front housing carrying a lisle 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 photons 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

:: ':. i::::: circuit boards, and curved lenses of the transparent chutedefining 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 token 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 ligl t 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-shapecl configuration thereof.

FIGURE l is a highly enlarged cross sectional view taken generally along l ine 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 Chicle 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.

:::: At: 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 front 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 housing carrying slidably adjustable token guides spaced a minimum distance from each other.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

A novel token constructed in accordance Title this invention is illustrated in Figures 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7 of the drawings and is generally designated by the reference numeral 10.

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, thus 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 "counterfeit" tokens. However, throughout this disclosure the token 10 and other tokens disclosed

herein will be described structurally and in terms of verification in the sense of being a "genuine" token.

The token 10 of Figures 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7 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 tile token ID 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 annular bands 14, 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 "owners' 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 IS, 19 being defined by surfaces Sl, 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 corner Fc defined between adjacent surfaces Sl, S2 includes a maximum radius of.005" and the distance d between adjacent facet corners Pc is 0.020" minimum and 0.025" maximum. The surfaces S1, S2 are polished to SPE/SPI 2 or better. Preferably the facet corners Fc defined by adjacent facet surfaces S I, 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 15, 16 with a plane through the uppermost surface (unnumbered) of the guard bead 20 Iying in the corresponding plane of the surfaces 12, 13. The guard beads 20

: thereby protect the highly polished surfaces Sl, S2 of the facets 18, 19 preventing abrasion, marring, dings, etc. The guard beads 20 on opposite faces 12, 13 of the token 10 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 tl e center A of the token 10 and a line EF (Figure 8) intersecting AB at point of the particular band (16 in Figure 8) under consideration.

The radial line AB and the line EF define an included angle of 15 increments as measured in a clockwise direction relative to the radial line AB. The angle O in Figure 8 is approximately 60 [15 x 4 (multiple) = 60 1. This orients each facet in skewed relationship to the radial line AB. In otl er words, none of the facets 18 or 19 lie upon any radial line AB of the token 10, but instead are in substantially tangential relationship to a chord of the token 10, which cord corresponds to the angular orientation of the line EF. However, in accordance with the invention, eacl facet is not only skewed relative to radial line AB of the token 10, but the cl ordal 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 arcshaped line G-H, a line DC is drawn normal to the line EF passing through the center X and an arc AC is Glen drawn with the center X as the radius.

The point C of intersection of the lines DC, AC becomes the axis for the arc-shapecl 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 = Tan l d (AX)(cos0) where d is the perpendicular distance between adjacent facet corners or peaks Fc (Figure 7) and AX is the length along to radius R or the radial line AD between the token center A and the annular band center X of the annular band 16.

The peak to peak perpendicular facet distance d must be chosen so cleat 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 16, as just described, characteristic of all of the facets 18, 19 is their skewed (chordal) orientation disposed substantially along a chord whicl1 is also curved with respect to an arc passing through a center point X midway between tl e inner and outer diameters' di and do, respectively (Figure 8), of the specific annular band involved.

Reference is made to another token 10' of Figures 3 and 4 whirls 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 IO of Figures 1, 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 of metallic material or a metallic alloy 17' which differs in its inductive signature from that of the metallic disk 14'. As will be noted further herein, the metallic alloy disk 14' and the annular metallic bend 17' can be sensed/tested inductively whereas the annular bands 15', 16' can be tested or sensed optically reflectively (opaque) anct 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'

-A: it:: T:: -A i- a:::: a:::;; am:: :: E are constructed in accordance with the description of the fabrication of the facets

heretofore described specifically relative to Figure 8.

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/or validating tokens, such as the tokens 10, 10' or the equivalent thereof, is frilly 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 and a front housing 101 (Figures 9-13).

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 or 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 7O, 71 (Figures 9-11 and 13). The screws 70, 71 are shown threaded into the respectivethreaded 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

:;;.' -I:::. i:: \:::: :::: A::: :::: I:::::.: ::: :: ::::: i::::::^ 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 positions, thus the reason for the three threaded holes 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, 10 and 13) 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 hi 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, 131 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 fingers 73 of a pivotally mounted gate 74 which project through the slot 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

-at: go::::: at:: :::::: if: 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 74 against the bias of the spring 76 pivoting the gate fingers 73 out of the token partly 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 11) 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 11 and vice versa. A circuit board 90 (Fixtures I I and 14) is supported he substantially spaced parallel relationship to the transparent rear wall 81, and,t! e..ir.c 'it board 90 carries first token characteristic sensh g Means 9 1 ( Figures 11, 1 2 and 1 4) 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 arcanely spaced 15 from each other in a ''sru b rst" 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.

The bottom or rear wall 81 (Figure 8) 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 10 during its descent and prevent scuffing of the optical surfaces by the passing token.

The front housing 101 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 tile 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, 1 11 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 119, 113 (Figure 11). The distance between the ribs 112, 113 establishes the maximum diameter of a tolled 10 which can pass through the validation device 50 when the housings 51, 101 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 11) passing through the openings 65 of the flanges 63, 64 and threaded into threaded openings 115 (Figure 112) in upper and lower corner walls (unnumbered) of the peripheral wall 103. A spring 116 (Figures 11-13) is conventionally secured to the rear wall 53 (Figure 12) of the rear housing 51 and by a screw 1 17 (Figure I I) to the

front wall 102 of the front housing IOI which normally holds the hotlines 51, 101 closed (Figures 9, 10, 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 158 (Figures 11, 14 and IS), a wall portion 118 having a cam or camming surface 120, lens means or lens 193, a circular cylindrical cup-sl aped recess 194 (Figures 1 1, 14 and 15) and slots or recesses 127 (Figures 11 and 15) in the token edge guides 112, 113. The ribs 96, 196 are vertically aligned in opposing spaced pairs 96, 196; 96, 196, etc. and defined therel etween a token climate TC (Figures 13-lS) extending vertically downwardly from the opening O along which the tokens 10 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 SO 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 deptl or thickness T (Figure 14) 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 IS of the drawings, chute wield changing means 130 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 IS a relatively small diameter token 10 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 I I 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 191 192.

The chute width changing means 130 is in the form of equally sized edge guides members ribs or bars 131 (Figure 11) of one-piece injection molded polymeric/copolymeric synthetic plastic material each leaving pairs of connecting bars or fastening detente 132 opposite guide surfaces 133 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 ol tl e token chute TC (Figure 15) 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 10 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 he the slots 122 of to guide ribs 112 1 13. This places the guide ribs or guide bars 13 I with their opposing surfaces 133 a distance Wt from each other which corresponds to the diameter of the token 10 illustrated in Figure IS. Each of the surfaces 133 is of course spaced substantially the exact distance from the token center line path of travel P and thins 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 eacl 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 15 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 agah without altering in any fashion sensing by the sensing means 91 92 191 192 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 (Figures9 10 11 13 and 15) and includesas 'bstantially L-

shaped or J-shaped member defined by a central portion 141 a leg 142 normal thereto and a return radius portion 143 defining a channel (unnumbered) having an innermost or bight surface 144. A locl<-ing detent 145 projects toward the central portion 141. The side wall 61 of the rear hocusing 51 includes a downwardly tapering edge 146 (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 102 of the front housing 101 abuts against the flange 142 (Figure 15) 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 ad lusting member 140 along the edge 146 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 plaice

in turn essentially fixes the distance T between the ribs 96, 196 (Figure 14) lo 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 line path or center line token sensing path P. As will ofttimes occur, tokens 10 can jam within the validation device SO during descent through the token chute TC for a variety of reasons, and in order to unjam tokens and restore operation absent damage to the validation device 50 or any of its components, means generally designated by the reference numeral 220 (Figures 10 and 11) are carried by the plate 52 of the rear hocusing 51 for cooperation with the camming surface 120 of the wall portion 118 of the front wall 102 of the front housing 101. The antijamming means 220 includes a metallic plate 271 pivotally connected by a pivot 222 to the wall 53 and is spring- biased to the position ill stratecl in Figures 10 and 11 by a conventional torsion spring 223 having an end (unnumbered) bearing against the underside of a finger tab 224. A guide tab 225 (Figure 12) is struck from the plate 221 and projects into the opening 55 in riding overlying relationship to the back side of the plate 53 along Llle edge 56 of the opening 55 (Figure 12). A cam portion 226 of the plate 221 is located just below an upper edge (unnumbered) of the opening 54 and in alignment with the cam surface 120 of the front housing 101 when the validation device 50 is closed (Figure 10).

The wall portion 118 projects a substantial distance through the opening 54 of the wall 53 (Figure 10) when the housings 51, 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 Jane the token chute TC, flee finger tab 222 is simply depressed which pivots the plate 221 clockwise (Figure 10) 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 pins 114 and against the bias of the

: spring 1 I6 thereby widening/opening the token chute TC and releasing jammed coins/tokens therein.

Reference is now made specifically to Figures 15-18 of the drawings which illustrates details of cooperative means 230, 250 for mounting the sensing means 191, 192 relative to the associated circuit board 190, and the structure hereinafter immediately described applies equally to the sensing means 91, 92 and the circuit board 90 thereof. The circuit board 190 includes a locating and mounting opening 230 which is circular except for a generally radial leg 231 descending from the twelve o'clock position of the locating and mounting opening 230 and terminating in a rounded end 232 which includes an axis Sa which is the axis of the opening 230 and also lies on the token centerline palm P along which the center A of each token 10 descends as it moves through the token chute TC tinder 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 cylindrical inductive coil 1921 aving an end (unnumbered) received in the recess 194 of the front wall 102 (Figure 18) of the front housing 101. A central axis la defines the axis of the inductor 192 which also lies on the axis of token travel defined by the path axis P. The locating and housing opening 230 of the circuit board 190 houses at least two holding means or holders 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 holders 250 for both the radiant energy source and the radiant energy detector or detectors is identical. Each holder 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

::.: 6,::.:.:...!:.:: go,,,,,.:,., t,,,,.::,:..

252, converging/diverging faces 253, 254 and end faces 255, 256 through which pass a bore/counterbore 257. A radial foot 258 projects from the end surface 255 and functions to abut against and seat in an accurately located slot 249 (Figures 15 and 16) 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 25S, 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 limply source emitting or generating means 260 (6 o'clock position in Figure 16) and at least one light source sensing means 261 (8 o'clock position in Figure 16), though further light sensing means 262 (4 o'clock position in Figure 16) can be provided to collectively sense multiple bands 15, 16 (Figures 1 and 2) of facets 18, 19, respectively, arcuately spaced differing from each other by at least 15 , as was earlier described. The light generating means 260 can be a conventional light emitting diode, such as a Siemens SFH 409 infra red LED in a T-1 plastic package, whereas the sensing means 261 and/or 262 is a matched photodetector. stick as a Siemens silicon NPN phototransistor model SFH 309. Pairs of leads (unnumbered) of the light emitting diode 260 and the phototransistor 262, 263 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 means

: i:: . ::: :::::::::::::: go: i::::::::: At:::::::: 260 ([Figure 16) it passes through lens 193 but the light reflected back from the facets 18, 19 of a particular token 10 will only be received by the phototransistor 261 or 262 if the reflective facets of token 10 are perpendicular to a line L2 bisecting the optical axes of the light source and light detector 260, 261, as viewed in Figure 16, arid perpendicular to the parallel rays emanath g 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 travelling 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 1 to the photodetector 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 coh,/token 10 to continue along its "acceptance" path P to an 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 LEDs 260,262 and one phototransistor 261 on each side of the token chute TC. The microcontroller first turns on transistor Q4 to discharge transistor C1. Then transistor Q4 is turned off and transistor Q2 is turned on and causes current to flow through LED D2 (260) thus emitting light through the lens 193 into the token chute TC. If a token 10 is present and positioned so that its facets 18 or 19 are coincident with the Piglet emanating from lens 193 and if the facets are perpendicular to the line bisecting the optical axes of the light source and light detector 260, 261 as viewed in Figure 16, and perpendicular to the parallel rays emanating from far side of in sites molded lens 193 toward the token 10 as viewed in Figure 18, then a significant portion of the light will be reflected back

:::: 4: : Hi -:::: : I: i:: in::: : :' :::::. -::.:::: through lens 193 to phototransistor Q3 (261). Photocurrent proportional to the received light will flow through phototransistor Q3 into C I causing the voltage on C I to rise at a rate proportional to the pl otocurrent and therefore proportional to the received light intensity. The relative intensity of the reflective light is inversely proportional to the time it 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 inductive coils 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 area 17 or the circular area 14 or both of the token 10, or the similar separately formed areas 14' anti 17' of the token 10'. Suffice it to say that due to travel of any of the tokens 10, 10', etc. Fitly the center A thereof at all times moving along the center axis 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 ancl/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 mttst interface with all coin operated devices in a manner which allows one standard acceptor to emulate the

:: i I: electrical interface of otl er older acceptors, most of which leave 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, time consuming and ofttimes difficult adaptation, the present invention includes as part of the circuit means 300 novel electric plug connector means (Figures 12 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 is a so-called "personality plug" 400 which 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 circuit board 400 includes a female pin connector 402 which can be connected to pins 300' of the circuit 300 of the circuit board 190. A plug connector 403 is connectable to a specific coin/token operated device. Thus, no matter the "acceptance" signal transmitted throttle 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 plug connector 403 for "personalizing" the validation device to such other coin/token operated device. Therefore, by providing a half dozen or so specifically designed personality plugs 400 with differing circuits 401 and connectors 403, the validation device 50 is adapted for utilization with the vast majority of cointtoken operated crevices principally utilized in today's commercial environment.

::: .. I'::;. - : i. A::. .. a: 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 51'. However, in liens of the snap-secured token centering guides or ribs 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 token 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 travelling along the token sensing axis P1.

Claims (7)

-28 THE CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. Apparatus for testing tokens 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.

2. The apparatus for testing tokens as defined in claim 1 wherein said wall in part defines a token entrance slot at said chute entrance end. 3. The apparatus for testing tokens as defined in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein said wall is a removable cover which can be removed from said chute. 4. The apparatus for testing tokens as defined in claim 1, claim 2 or claim 3 wherein said guide ribs are in substantially parallel relationship to each other.

5. The apparatus for testing tokens as defined in any one of preceding claims 1 to 4 wherein said wall includes an inclined token guiding surface for directing tokens away from said rib ends and toward another of said opposite walls.

6. The apparatus for testing tokens as defined in any one of preceding claims 1 to 5 wherein said wall is a slidably removable cover which can be slidably removed from said chute.

-29 7. Apparatus for testing tokens as clai ed in claim 1 and substantially as described herein with reference to and as shown in the accompanying drawings.

Amendments to the claims have been filed as follows (! THE CLAIMS

What is claimed is: 1. Apparatus for testing tokens 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 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.

2. The apparatus for testing tokens as defined in claim 1 wherein said wall in part defines a token entrance slot at said chute entrance end.

3. The apparatus for testing tokens as defined in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein said wall is a removable cover which can be removed from said chute.

4. The apparatus for testing tokens as defined in claim 1, claim 2 or claim 3 wherein said guide ribs are in substantially parallel relationship to each other.

5. The apparatus for testing tokens as defined in any one of preceding claims 1 to 4 wherein said wall includes an inclined token guiding surface for directing tokens away from said rib ends and toward another of said opposite walls.

6. The apparatus for testing tokens as defined in any one of preceding claims 1 to 5 wherein said wall is a slidably removable cover which can be slidably removed from said chute.

7. Apparatus for testing tokens as claimed in claim 1 and substantially as described herein with reference to and as shown in the accompanying drawings.