EP0657855B1 - Method and device for identifying coins - Google Patents

Method and device for identifying coins Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0657855B1
EP0657855B1 EP94118461A EP94118461A EP0657855B1 EP 0657855 B1 EP0657855 B1 EP 0657855B1 EP 94118461 A EP94118461 A EP 94118461A EP 94118461 A EP94118461 A EP 94118461A EP 0657855 B1 EP0657855 B1 EP 0657855B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
coins
disc
coin
measurement
measuring
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EP94118461A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0657855A1 (en
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Rudolf Stöckli
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Individual
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Individual
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    • GPHYSICS
    • G07CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07DHANDLING OF COINS OR VALUABLE PAPERS, e.g. TESTING, SORTING BY DENOMINATIONS, COUNTING, DISPENSING, CHANGING OR DEPOSITING
    • G07D3/00Sorting a mixed bulk of coins into denominations
    • G07D3/14Apparatus driven under control of coin-sensing elements

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a method and a Device for identifying coins according to The preamble of claim 1 and claim 16.
  • a method and a device of this type, but with the disc gradually rotated, are from the GB-A-2 128 795 known. With this solution they run Side edges of the compartments that are against the scope of the Disk are open towards the center of the disk together. With this measure, the coins regardless of their size during the measurement in one precisely defined measuring position held. When going through The coins are opened by two fixed measuring stations their size, i.e. their diameter, scanned out. For this a light barrier arrangement is used at each measuring station a number of light barriers along a radial extending line are arranged. Depending on the size of the Coins are passed as they pass Measuring stations more or less light barriers interrupted. The signals obtained in this way are used in an evaluation unit determines the coin sizes. The Disk is in the same cycle as that Evaluation unit is operated, gradually rotated.
  • a method and an identification device of coins of the type mentioned is from GB-A-2 203 582 known.
  • This device has compartments for coins that are in a radial, outward direction extending direction have a V-shaped constriction. When the compartments are rotated, the centrifugal or gravity occurring a coin against the V-shaped narrowing of the receiving compartment pressed while doing so stabilized in terms of their location, so the coin during the measurement regardless of their size in one precisely defined measuring position is held.
  • a disadvantage This known device can be seen in the fact that a only inaccurate identification of the coins is possible.
  • the device due to the design of the Sorting device and the receiving compartments, only with one very low working speed.
  • the object of the present invention is a Method and device for identifying To provide coins that are capable of Identification at high speed and low Reliable effort.
  • the measurement can be carried out in this way be that the beam of light from a light transmitter and Existing light barrier on the disc in the light receiver Area of the receiving compartments is directed and that on the Size of each, in the storage compartments of the disc contained coins from the signals of the light receiver is closed.
  • the light beam can be Photoelectric switch should be directed to a location that is radial is inside or outside the web, which is due to the geometrical centers of the holes of the perforated disk described is.
  • Other scanning devices such as, for example an inductive and / or capacitive scanning device can be used in the device according to the invention.
  • the receiving compartments of the disk are preferably enlarged chosen as the diameter of the largest expected coins, however, advantageously less than double Diameter of the smallest expected coin and it will a measurement along a chord using the light beam the respective ones located in the receiving compartments Coins carried.
  • the individual coins in the respective Receiving compartments thus influence the light beam Light barrier with its front edge and with your rear edge.
  • the light barrier is used as a transmission light barrier realized, i.e. with the light transmitter on the one side of the pane and with the light receiver on the other side of the pane, so the beam of light that first through the free space between the edge of the Receptacle and the front edge of the coin extends interrupted by the front edge and then by the released rear edge of the coin.
  • the measure of Distance between the corresponding falling edge and the subsequently rising edge of the signal of the Photoelectric sensor is a measure for a chord length of the coin and this chord length is characteristic of one certain type of coin that is in the receiving compartment of the disc located.
  • a Control can be carried out by measuring the second free space is carried out. As with the measurement of the first free space, there is also a characteristic one Value. Now interpret both measured values to the same Diameter, can be assumed in practice be that the disc and thus the coins in Have moved the measuring range largely uniformly. This However, this is not necessarily the case since the coins go back and forth swing.
  • this type of measurement then requires that the rotational speed of the perforated disc during the Measurement remains constant. This can be checked if necessary and only such measurements are used for further evaluation exploited where this criterion is met. Not properly recognized coins or coins where the Measurement due to changing disk speed is imperfect when switching on the device, for example ejected from the disc and the measurement again be fed.
  • the measurement can also be carried out as a distance measurement be, with a measuring device, for example.
  • An incremental encoder which is used which with the disc is coupled directly or indirectly, so that a certain Rotation of the disc also to a corresponding movement leads the measuring device.
  • the measuring signals of the Displacement measuring devices can then be used to evaluate the distance between the corresponding edges of the Light barrier signal can be used, making this Measurement then independent of changes or fluctuations the speed of rotation of the disc.
  • a corresponding signal can be obtained by sampling Markings on the disc or on the edge of the disc be generated. These markings can also be from the Position measuring device can be read, for example Resolution of the measuring device so that everyone thousandth pulse the edge of a compartment on the Point of intersection with the light beam or a adjacent point marked, which is the same for the measurement can serve.
  • To stabilize the position of the coins in the Compartments of the disc can also be one of the circular shape deviating hole shape, for example Hole shape with two in the direction of rotation of the disc or this oppositely converging straight sides are used will.
  • the coin identification and sorting device consists of a collecting funnel 10 for receiving the coins to be identified, one rotatable perforated disc 12, which corresponds to an inclined position 2 and around an axis of rotation 14 of to a motor 16 via a transmission 18 and a shaft 20 a rotational movement directed in the direction of arrow 22 is.
  • the part located below the shaft 20 the perforated disc 12 dips into the collecting funnel 10, so that individual coins (not shown in Figs. 1 and 2) by means of the holes in the perforated disc 12 upwards and through one on the frame 24 of the coin identification and sorting device
  • Fixed light barrier arrangement 26 be transported through. In a manner known per se It is ensured that two coins are not one at the same time Occupy the hole in the perforated disc.
  • the perforated disc 12 is a part-circular ring 30, the is arranged behind the perforated disc 12 and only in Area of the light barrier 26 has a recess and the end edge of which is identified by reference numeral 31 in FIG. 1 is marked.
  • an electromagnetic actuated ejector 32 which serves not perfectly identifiable coins from perforated disk 12 push out so that this in the collecting funnel 10th fall behind.
  • the ejection device 32 can also be designed differently, and for example by means of a Blow air to eject the coins.
  • the reference number 36 indicates another electromagnetic Ejection device, the perfectly recognized foreign coins sends into a foreign coin compartment 38 and that in that the ejector 36 the corresponding Foreign coins pushes down from the rail 34.
  • This too Ejection device can be designed differently.
  • the Ejector 36 is synchronized with the Perforated disc actuated at the right time or for fine tuning controlled with a sensor when a foreign coin arrives. Immediately below the sloping down directed rail 34, the ring 30 starts again.
  • the sorting device has a number of deflectors 40 on at different distances d1 to d7 from the Rail 34 are arranged and the coins accordingly convey their diameters into the respective compartments 42.
  • the reference numeral 45 indicates an operating keyboard depending on the actual purpose the coin identification device is formed and to an evaluation computer, indicated only schematically 44 is connected to which the light barrier arrangement 26 and the ejection devices 32 and 36 and if necessary, other coin identification devices or others Computer, for example when used in banks, connected (control lines not shown) while the Reference numeral 46 represents a display which is also on connected to the evaluation computer 44, the total value of displays counted real coins.
  • the sorting can also be carried out according to other principles will.
  • E.g. can the inclined rail instead of with fixed bumpers equipped with autonomously working bumpers will.
  • a forced guidance sorter e.g. a belt or chain sorter with fixed, autonomously working or controlled deflectors are used.
  • the light barrier 26 consists of a light transmitter 48 and a light receiver 50, both are connected to the evaluation computer 44.
  • An incremental encoder 52 can also be seen from FIG. its disc at the end of the motor shaft 54 of the motor 16 is appropriate. As usual with such incremental encoders, generates the detection part 53 due to the rotation of the Disk a finely resolved pulse train, which is also on the computer 44 is created. The identification process the coins are subsequently based on the others Figures explained in more detail.
  • 3 shows one Detail from the perforated disc 12 of FIGS. 1 and 2 with three circular successive holes 28, the centers of which 56 when rotating the perforated disc 12 about the axis of rotation 14 describe a circular path 58 which is shown in FIG. 3 is shown in broken lines. At 60 there is a cross section shown by the light beam from the light barrier 26, where this light beam reaches the plane of the perforated disc 12 traverses.
  • the light beam 60 is radial lies within the path 56 so that this light beam too the smallest and largest expected real coins.
  • light beam 60 could also be radially outside the path 58 are provided that it is ensured that even the smallest Coins are captured by him.
  • the light beam 60 describes a circular path 80 on the surface of the perforated disk 12th
  • Fig. 3 also shows two markings 62, which at one Design variant with a corresponding sensor (not shown) work together when scanning the markings Generates signals that create a measurement window can serve or represent a time measurement window.
  • the markings 62 the shape of holes with a transparent or dark (light reflecting) plastic are filled and by a sensor in the form of a light barrier (not shown) can be scanned. Through the Filling the holes 62 with plastic will clog them these holes with dirt effectively avoided. Becomes generates a measurement time window, this can be used for this be that a measurement only within the measurement window between two successive holes 62 is possible.
  • the "holes" 62 can also be purely electronic certain pulses from the pulse train of the incremental encoder 52 are marked and serve the same purpose, i.e. it there need not be any actual holes 62.
  • the hole edge 66 crosses the light beam 60, so that so far by the material of the perforated disc 12 interrupted light beam is released and the rising edge A of the light barrier output signal is created 68 of Fig. 5. It is understood that it is here is a manipulated flank, which, for example. by differentiating the actual output signal is generated to achieve a steep switching edge.
  • the light beam remains in the further stage up to FIG. 4C 60 then interrupted, namely by the coin 24 in Area between the front edge 72 and the rear edge Edge 74.
  • the rear edge 74 blocks the light beam 60 crosses and increasingly releases it, the rising edge C in Fig. 5, and the output signal of the The light barrier then reaches its maximum height H.
  • the signal level remains at the value H when the light beam continues to move Free space 76 is located. If the hole edge 66 in the stage of 4D crosses the light beam, the light beam becomes interrupted again and the signal goes up again the value 0.
  • the measurement in hole 28 with coin 64 is now finished and another measurement for the next hole 28, being the corresponding one, again rising edge of the light barrier signal in FIG. 5 is shown only by a dashed line.
  • the distance between the two vertical flanks A and B 5 thus corresponds to the dimension of the free space 70 measured along the circular path 80.
  • the distance between edges B and C in Fig. 5 corresponds to Dimension of the coin 64 along the circular Lane 80 described tendon 79.
  • the distance between the Flanks C and D of FIG. 5 again correspond to the dimension of the free space 76, also here along the circular path 80 measured.
  • the determination of these lengths can either be a time measurement be carried out under the assumption that the rotational speed the perforated disc during the measurement period is constant, or can be carried out as a distance measurement.
  • the angle is preferably measured for the path by the Covers the perforated disc. This angle can be at the Perforated disc itself can be measured, but this is relative imprecise and the angle is preferably measured with the Incremental disk 52 on the motor shaft, for example, with 2700 revolutions per minute. That kind of Angle detection requires rigid gear ratios between the incremental disc on the motor shaft and the perforated disc, which is often the case, if there is a transmission in between, preferably should be run free of play. Technically there are many Solutions conceivable.
  • the Computer 44 Based on the signals from the incremental encoder, the Computer 44 but also whether the speed of rotation of the perforated disc 12 is constant during the measurement. Should this be not be the case, for example when starting the Perforated disk 12, so can via the ejection device 32nd the coins are returned to the collecting container 10 until the speed of rotation of the perforated disc 12 is constant. Generally the tarnish and that Stopping the perforated disc is not ideal for performing of measurements. By taking measurements in these phases are not taken into account, or the coins in these Phases are returned to the collection container an additional stop motor is unnecessary.
  • the signals from the incremental encoder 52 by the evaluation computer 44 to determine the Path lengths between flanks A and B or B and C and / or C and D are used.
  • FIG. 6 shows how different values of dimension of the give information about both spaces 70 and 76 can that the coin is not a stable position within the Has hole. In this case, the Coin back into the collecting container 10.
  • Fig. 7 shows in principle the same facts, however with a five mark piece, which in this example is the largest Has diameter of the coins to be sorted.
  • the two free spaces 70, 76 differ from one another, whereby but these are much smaller than because of the size of the coin this is the case in the example of FIG. 6. Still can such changes in position of the coin due to the signals of the Light barrier 26 can be recognized.
  • Fig. 8 shows a modified form of the hole 28, the serves to stabilize the position of the coins.
  • This modified form is circular in the upper area, shows however in the lower area two converging inwards straight pages 90 and 92 on the one back and forth movement avoid coins as much as possible.
  • Fig. 9 shows a modified device, in addition for measuring the chord length of the coin or the Length of the corresponding free spaces using the light barrier beam 60 one probe 84 is provided to another To determine the property of the coins, for example the alloy. The result of this measurement can also be sent to the evaluation computer 44 be created and in the identification of the Coin are taken into account.
  • Probe 84 may for example an inductive probe or scanner, as known for example from GB-A-2 135 492, and / or act as a capacitive probe.
  • Fig. 9 also shows the possibility of the ejector Position 32 so that it is just the respective coin can poke out of the hole. This is cheap in that as a delay in the control signal for the Ejection device 32 is no longer required here.
  • the positions marked by the markings 62 or the corresponding electronic signals from the incremental encoder can replace the edges A and D of the light barrier signal 5 for measuring the dimensions of the Free spaces 70 and 76 of the coin 64 can be used.
  • this measurement means that Size of the round coin 64 determined, if this is correct in the Hole 28 is.
  • a characteristic measured value can be in the Machine to be learned.
  • a transmission light barrier must be, but also a reflection light barrier can be at which the light receiver is arranged on the same side of the perforated disc as the light transmitter.
  • Sorting machine includes, it is easily possible to to dispense with the sorting principle and set up only as a cash counter or coin validator operate.
  • FIG. 10 shows a first example of such a positioning device 100, here in the form of a brush 102 formed mechanical braking device, which from a fixed one, on the other side of the perforated disc arranged support assembly 104 is worn, it is in this support arrangement 104, for example by one modified version of the ring 30 or the frame 24 can act.
  • the brush 102 is one Bracket 106 worn, which with the support assembly 104th is screwed.
  • the length of the bristles can be longer or shorter than shown, it is only essential that the bristles all possible coins must touch to make one Braking on the coins.
  • FIG. 11 illustrates, wherein it can also be seen from FIG. 11 that the long side of the rectangular brush towards the Arrow XI of Fig. 10 seen in this example is selected slightly shorter than the diameter of the Holes 28 of the perforated disk 12. From Fig. 11 is also it can be seen that the brush 102 is circular Has recess 108 so that the light beam 60 Light barrier can go through the brush.
  • the Light transmitter (not shown) is used in this example arranged for example in the holder 106 during the Light receiver (also not shown) on the Support assembly 104 is mounted.
  • Fig. 12 shows a modified embodiment in which instead of a light barrier, an inductive and / or capacitive scanning device 84 is used.
  • the circular recess 108 of the brush designed larger in diameter to provide enough space for to create the inductive or capacitive probe 84.
  • Fig. 13 shows an arrangement similar to the embodiment of 10 and 11, but in which the holes 28 of the Perforated disk 12 have a special shape so that Coins after being positioned by brush 102 are positively guided and assume an absolutely stable situation.
  • the holes 28 have the embodiment 13 a shape similar to that of FIG. 8, wherein but here the rectilinear areas 90 and 92 of the hole shape do not converge radially inwards, but in Circumferential direction of the perforated disk in the region of the web 58 Hole centers, in the direction of rotation 22 of the Perforated disc seen rear area of holes 28.
  • the mechanical braking effect Positioning device can also be designed differently be as shown in Figs. 10 to 13.
  • the braking effect accomplished by a sheet member 110, which here as movable flap and formed around a hinge 112 on the Bracket 106 is pivoted.
  • a schematic compression spring 114 shown presses the movable flap 110 in the direction of the perforated disc, so that the free end 116 the flap 110 in contact with those to be identified Coins can get into a hole the perforated disc on the brake device 100 be transported past.
  • the brake has a recess 108 so that the Light beam from the light barrier does not pass through the flap 110 is interrupted.
  • the flap 110 or their The side facing the perforated disc can be made of plastic, so that sufficient friction without pronounced Wear can be achieved.
  • the braking device can also be designed differently will.
  • it can be formed by an air nozzle (not shown), which by means of a directed Air jet the coins towards the one behind the other Presses holes.
  • air nozzle not shown
  • electromagnetic ones Braking devices also not shown
  • the positioning device does not have to be a braking device be trained, it can also be used as an acceleration device be trained to, for example the coins towards the leading edge of the hole to press. Finally, it would also be conceivable for the coins by means of a positioning device also on the upper ones or lower edge of the hole or also to any one Place to press the holes.
  • 16 and 17 show a positioning device that so is formed that the coins on the leading edge of the holes are pressed.
  • the positioning device 100 in this example two circumferential belts 120, 122 on the two deflecting rollers or rollers 124 and 126 and one roller 130 driven by a motor 128.
  • the Axes of the deflection rollers 124 and 126 and the drive roller 130 are parallel to each other and to the plane of the perforated disc.
  • the deflection rollers 124 and 126 are on in this example sprung suspensions 132 and 134 worn so that the respective rollers 124 and 126 always in the direction of the perforated disc are pressed and thus when one passes Hole 28 are partially pushed into the hole and in this way reliably in contact with the respective Coins are coming. This ensures that the positioning effect the belt 120, 122 reliably on the Coins are exercised.
  • the rotational speed of the belts 120, 122 so is chosen that this is higher than the surface speed the perforated disc in the area of the belt, see above are those in the individual holes 28 of the perforated disc arranged coins accelerated opposite the perforated disc and pressed against the leading edge of the hole, so that it is here assume a stable position for the duration of the measurement.
  • the device shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 could, however also serve as a braking device. In this case it would be Circulation speed of belts to choose smaller or in to go in the opposite direction than that Surface speed of the perforated disc in the range of Belt.
  • a coin 64 coming from the perforated disc 12 by rotating the same in the direction of arrow 22 to the Positioning device is brought up.
  • the measurement takes place in this example by the light beam 60 Light barrier (not shown).
  • the perforated disc moves 12 from the position shown in FIG. 18 to the position in FIG. 19 shown position, the coin 24 comes into the effective range the strap 120, 122 and is on the front edge of the hole positioned as shown in Fig. 19.
  • the measurement of leading edge of the coin 64 is in this embodiment preferably triggered electronically, since each according to the specific design of the facility, little to none Clearance between the leading edge of hole 28 and the coin 64 is present in the region of the light beam 60.
  • the light beam 60 is interrupted by the coin 64. Only when the position according to FIG. 21 is reached is the light beam 60 of the coin released, and until the rear edge of the hole 28 according to FIG. 22 the light beam 60 has crossed.
  • Fig. 23 shows that the coin 64 is different Layer 69 in hole 28 assumes when the area of effect the belt has left 120, 122.
  • the positioning device of Fig. 16 to 23 also with other scanning devices, for example with an inductive and / or capacitive Scanner can work and that several differently designed scanning devices, for example a light barrier and an inductive or capacitive measuring device are used simultaneously can.
  • Positioning devices 100 together with the various scanning devices can be used can, i.e. e. also with an image reader.

Abstract

To identify coins, these are individualised by an individualisation equipment designed as a rotatable perforated disc (12). An identification measurement is subsequently carried out as long as the coins are still located in the holes (28) of the perforated disc (12). To carry out the measurement, a light barrier (26), for example, or an inductive or capacitive scanning equipment can be used. By means of a positioning equipment, which acts in an accelerative or decelerative manner on the coins which are located in the holes (28), the coins are held in a specific, exactly defined position during the measurement. <IMAGE>

Description

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren sowie eine Vorrichtung zur Identifizierung von Münzen gemäss Oberbegriff des Anspruches 1 bzw. des Anspruches 16.The present invention relates to a method and a Device for identifying coins according to The preamble of claim 1 and claim 16.

Ein Verfahren und eine Vorrichtung dieser Art, jedoch mit schrittweise gedrehter Scheibe, sind aus der GB-A-2 128 795 bekannt. Bei dieser Lösung laufen die Seitenränder der Aufnahmefächer, die gegen den Umfang der Scheibe hin offen sind, zum Zentrum der Scheibe hin zusammen. Durch diese Massnahme werden die Münzen unabhängig von ihrer Grösse während der Messung in einer genau definierten Messposition gehalten. Beim Durchlaufen von zwei ortsfesten Messstationen werden die Münzen auf ihre Grösse, d.h. ihren Durchmesser, hin abgetastet. Hierzu dient an jeder Messstation eine Lichtschrankenanordnung mit einer Anzahl von Lichtschranken, die entlang einer radial verlaufenden Linie angeordnet sind. Je nach Grösse der Münzen werden beim Vorbeilaufen derselben an den Messstationen mehr oder weniger Lichtschranken unterbrochen. Aus den dadurch gewonnenen Signalen werden in einer Auswertungseinheit die Münzengrössen ermittelt. Die Scheibe wird dabei im selben Takt, wie die Auswertungseinheit betrieben wird, schrittweise gedreht.A method and a device of this type, but with the disc gradually rotated, are from the GB-A-2 128 795 known. With this solution they run Side edges of the compartments that are against the scope of the Disk are open towards the center of the disk together. With this measure, the coins regardless of their size during the measurement in one precisely defined measuring position held. When going through The coins are opened by two fixed measuring stations their size, i.e. their diameter, scanned out. For this a light barrier arrangement is used at each measuring station a number of light barriers along a radial extending line are arranged. Depending on the size of the Coins are passed as they pass Measuring stations more or less light barriers interrupted. The signals obtained in this way are used in an evaluation unit determines the coin sizes. The Disk is in the same cycle as that Evaluation unit is operated, gradually rotated.

Bei dieser bekannten Vorrichtung ist die Mess- und Auswerteelektronik verhältnismässig aufwendig. Zudem hat die taktgebundene Arbeitsweise dieser Vorrichtung zur Folge, dass keine sehr hohen Arbeitsgeschwindigkeiten möglich sind.In this known device, the measurement and Evaluation electronics are relatively complex. It also has the clock-based operation of this device Consequence that no very high working speeds possible are.

Ein Verfahren sowie eine Vorrichtung zur Identifizierung von Münzen der eingangs genannten Art ist aus der GB-A-2 203 582 bekannt. Diese Vorrichtung weist Aufnahmefächer für Münzen auf, welche in radialer, nach aussen verlaufender Richtung eine V-förmige Verengung aufweisen. Bei einer Rotation der Aufnahmefächer wird durch die auftretende Flieh- bzw. Schwerkraft eine Münze gegen die V-förmige Verengung des Aufnahmefaches gedrückt und dabei bezüglich deren Lage stabilisiert, so dass die Münze während der Messung unabhängig von ihrer Grösse in einer genau definierten Messposition gehalten ist. Ein Nachteil dieser bekannten Vorrichtung ist darin zu sehen, dass eine nur ungenaue Identifizierung der Münzen möglich ist. Zudem ist die Vorrichtung, auf Grund der Ausgestaltung der Sortiervorrichtung und der Aufnahmefächer, nur mit einer sehr geringen Arbeitsgeschwindigkeit betreibbar. A method and an identification device of coins of the type mentioned is from GB-A-2 203 582 known. This device has compartments for coins that are in a radial, outward direction extending direction have a V-shaped constriction. When the compartments are rotated, the centrifugal or gravity occurring a coin against the V-shaped narrowing of the receiving compartment pressed while doing so stabilized in terms of their location, so the coin during the measurement regardless of their size in one precisely defined measuring position is held. A disadvantage This known device can be seen in the fact that a only inaccurate identification of the coins is possible. In addition is the device, due to the design of the Sorting device and the receiving compartments, only with one very low working speed.

Es ist auch bekannt, Münzen auf andere Weise als mittels einer Messung ihrer Abmessungen zu identifizieren. So wird beispielsweise in der GB-A-2 135 492 ein Verfahren zur Erkennung von Münzen beschrieben, bei dem ein Wirbelstrom in der jeweilige Münze induziert, das Abklingen dieses Wirbelstroms überwacht und der dadurch gewonnene Istwert anschließend mit einem Sollwert verglichen wird, wobei bei Übereinstimmung der verglichenen Werte die jeweilige Münze erkannt wird.It is also known to use coins other than by means of identify a measurement of their dimensions. So will for example in GB-A-2 135 492 a method for Detection of coins described in which an eddy current induced in the respective coin, the decay of this Eddy current is monitored and the resulting actual value is then compared with a target value, with at Match the compared values of the respective coin is recognized.

Die Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung liegt darin, ein Verfahren sowie eine Vorrichtung zur Identifizierung von Münzen vorzusehen, das bzw die imstande ist, die Identifizierung bei hoher Geschwindigkeit und geringem Aufwand zuverlässig durchzuführen.The object of the present invention is a Method and device for identifying To provide coins that are capable of Identification at high speed and low Reliable effort.

Diese Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäss durch die Merkmale des Anspruches 1 bzw. des Anspruches 16 gelöst.According to the invention, this object is achieved by the features of claim 1 and claim 16 solved.

Beispielsweise kann die Messung dadurch durchgeführt werden, daß der Lichtstrahl einer aus einem Lichtsender und Lichtempfänger bestehenden Lichtschranke auf die Scheibe im Bereich der Aufnahmefächer gerichtet wird und daß auf die Größe der einzelnen, in den Aufnahmefächern der Scheibe enthaltenen Münzen aus den Signalen des Lichtempfängers geschlossen wird.For example, the measurement can be carried out in this way be that the beam of light from a light transmitter and Existing light barrier on the disc in the light receiver Area of the receiving compartments is directed and that on the Size of each, in the storage compartments of the disc contained coins from the signals of the light receiver is closed.

Bei lochförmigen Aufnahmefächern kann der Lichtstrahl der Lichtschranke auf eine Stelle gerichtet sein, die radial innerhalb oder außerhalb der Bahn liegt, welche durch die geometrischen Mitten der Löcher der Lochscheibe beschrieben ist. Auch andere Abtasteinrichtungen wie beispielsweise eine induktive und/oder kapazitive Abtasteinrichtung können in der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung verwendet werden.With hole-shaped compartments, the light beam can be Photoelectric switch should be directed to a location that is radial is inside or outside the web, which is due to the geometrical centers of the holes of the perforated disk described is. Other scanning devices such as, for example an inductive and / or capacitive scanning device can be used in the device according to the invention.

Da die Messung dann stattfindet, wenn die Münzen in der Scheibe vereinzelt vorliegen, entfällt ein zusätzlicher Aufwand für die Anbringung einer Meßeinrichtung nach der Scheibe.Since the measurement takes place when the coins are in the If there is a single pane, there is no additional one Effort for attaching a measuring device according to the Disc.

Vorzugsweise werden die Aufnahmefächer der Scheibe größer gewählt als der Durchmesser der größten erwarteten Münzen, jedoch vorteilhafterweise kleiner als der doppelte Durchmesser der kleinsten erwarteten Münze, und es wird mittels des Lichtstrahles eine Messung entlang einer Sehne der jeweiligen sich in den Aufnahmefächern befindlichen Münzen durchgeführt. Die einzelnen Münzen in den jeweiligen Aufnahmefächern beeinflussen somit den Lichtstrahl der Lichtschranke mit ihrer vorderen Kante und mit ihrer hinteren Kante. Wird die Lichtschranke als Transmissionslichtschranke realisiert, d.h. mit dem Lichtsender auf der einen Seite der Scheibe und mit dem Lichtempfänger auf der anderen Seite der Scheibe, so wird der Lichtstrahl, der sich zunächst durch den freien Raum zwischen dem Rand des Aufnahmefaches und der vorderen Kante der Münze erstreckt, durch die vordere Kante unterbrochen und dann durch die hintere Kante der Münze wieder freigegeben. Das Mass des Abstandes zwischen der entsprechenden abfallenden Flanke und der anschliessend ansteigenden Flanke des Signals der Lichtschranke, ist ein Mass für eine Sehnenlänge der Münze und diese Sehnenlänge ist charakteristisch für eine bestimmte Münzensorte, die sich im Aufnahmefach der Scheibe befindet. The receiving compartments of the disk are preferably enlarged chosen as the diameter of the largest expected coins, however, advantageously less than double Diameter of the smallest expected coin and it will a measurement along a chord using the light beam the respective ones located in the receiving compartments Coins carried. The individual coins in the respective Receiving compartments thus influence the light beam Light barrier with its front edge and with your rear edge. The light barrier is used as a transmission light barrier realized, i.e. with the light transmitter on the one side of the pane and with the light receiver on the other side of the pane, so the beam of light that first through the free space between the edge of the Receptacle and the front edge of the coin extends interrupted by the front edge and then by the released rear edge of the coin. The measure of Distance between the corresponding falling edge and the subsequently rising edge of the signal of the Photoelectric sensor is a measure for a chord length of the coin and this chord length is characteristic of one certain type of coin that is in the receiving compartment of the disc located.

Anstatt oder zusätzlich zu der soeben beschriebenen Messung besteht auch die Möglichkeit, eine Messung des Freiraumes zwischen dem jeweiligen Rand des Aufnahmeraumes und der vorderen Kante der Münze durchzuführen. Zusätzlich oder alternativ hierzu besteht auch die Möglichkeit, die Größe des entsprechenden Freiraumes zwischen der hinteren Kante der jeweiligen Münze und dem Rand des Aufnahmeraumes zu messen. Jede dieser drei Messungen oder Kombinationen davon können zur Identifizierung von einzelnen Münzen herangezogen werden, da die gemessenen Werte charakteristisch für die jeweiligen Münzgrößen sind. Da nicht ausgeschlossen werden kann, daß beispielsweise eine echte Münze und eine Fremdmünze die gleiche Größe aufweisen, können ggf. auch weitere Meßergebnisse, bspw. durch Messung der Legierung, Dicke, Relief, Bild, Rillen erzeugte Meßergebnisse, zur Unterscheidung zwischen den einzelnen Münzen und Fremdmünzen herangezogen werden. Diese weiteren Meßergebnisse können auf herkömmliche Art und Weise erzeugt werden, wobei auch mindestens einige der vorgenannten Messungen ebenfalls dann durchgeführt werden können, während die Münzen sich in der Scheibe befinden.Instead of or in addition to the measurement just described there is also the possibility of measuring the free space between the respective edge of the recording space and the leading edge of the coin. In addition or alternatively there is also the option of size of the corresponding free space between the rear edge the respective coin and the edge of the receiving space measure up. Any of these three measurements or combinations thereof can be used to identify individual coins can be used because the measured values are characteristic of the respective coin sizes. There it cannot be excluded that, for example, a real coin and a foreign coin have the same size, can possibly also further measurement results, for example by Measurement of the alloy, thickness, relief, image, grooves generated Measurement results, to differentiate between the individual Coins and foreign coins are used. These others Measurement results can be generated in a conventional manner be, at least some of the aforementioned Measurements can also be performed while the coins are in the disc.

Leider ist es aber so, daß die Münzen nicht mehr richtig in den Aufnahmefächern liegen, sobald sich die Scheibe nicht gleichförmig bewegt, was zu Meßfehlern führen kann. Eine Kontrolle kann ausgeführt werden, indem die Messung des zweiten Freiraumes durchgeführt wird. Wie bei der Messung des ersten Freiraumens, ergibt sich auch hier ein charakteristischer Wert. Deuten nun beide Meßwerte auf den gleichen Durchmesser hin, kann in der Praxis davon ausgegangen werden, daß sich die Scheibe und somit die Münzen im Meßbereich weitgehend gleichförmig fortbewegt haben. Dies ist jedoch nicht unbedingt so, da die Münzen hin- und herschwingen.Unfortunately, however, the coins are no longer properly in the compartments as soon as the disc is not moves uniformly, which can lead to measurement errors. A Control can be carried out by measuring the second free space is carried out. As with the measurement of the first free space, there is also a characteristic one Value. Now interpret both measured values to the same Diameter, can be assumed in practice be that the disc and thus the coins in Have moved the measuring range largely uniformly. This However, this is not necessarily the case since the coins go back and forth swing.

Ebenfalls denkbar ist die Messung eines Freiraumes und die Messung der Sehne der Münze. Als vollkommene Methode kann das Messen beider Freiräume und der Messung der Sehne bezeichnet werden. In diesem Falle müssen drei Werte auf den gleichen Durchmesser hindeuten, um eine Münze einwandfrei zu identifizieren. Dies erfordert jedoch einen größeren elektronischen Aufwand, da der Rechner während des ganzen Meßbereichs mit der Durchmesserbestimmung beschäftigt ist.The measurement of a free space and the Measuring the chord of the coin. As a perfect method can measuring both free spaces and measuring the tendon be designated. In this case, three values must be on suggest the same diameter to get a coin properly to identify. However, this requires one greater electronic effort, since the computer during the whole measuring range deals with the diameter determination is.

Die Möglichkeit besteht, die Messung als Zeitmessung durchzuführen, wobei diese Art der Messung dann erfordert, daß die Umlaufgeschwindigkeit der Lochscheibe während der Messung konstant bleibt. Dies kann ggf. kontrolliert werden und nur solche Messungen werden für die weitere Auswertung ausgenutzt, bei denen dieses Kriterium erfüllt ist. Nicht einwandfrei erkannte Münzen oder Münzen, bei denen die Messung aufgrund sich ändernder Geschwindigkeit der Scheibe bspw. beim Einschalten des Gerätes unvollkommen ist, können aus der Scheibe ausgestoßen und der erneuten Messung wieder zugeführt werden.It is possible to carry out the measurement as a time measurement, this type of measurement then requires that the rotational speed of the perforated disc during the Measurement remains constant. This can be checked if necessary and only such measurements are used for further evaluation exploited where this criterion is met. Not properly recognized coins or coins where the Measurement due to changing disk speed is imperfect when switching on the device, for example ejected from the disc and the measurement again be fed.

Die Messung kann aber auch als Wegmessung durchgeführt werden, wobei eine Meßeinrichtung, bspw. ein Inkrementalgeber verwendet wird, welche bzw. welcher mit der Scheibe direkt oder indirekt gekoppelt ist, so daß eine bestimmte Drehung der Scheibe auch zu einer entsprechenden Bewegung der Wegmeßeinrichtung führt. Die Wegmeßsignale der Wegmeßeinrichtung können dann zur Auswertung des Abstandes zwischen den entsprechenden Flanken des Lichtschrankensignals herangezogen werden, wodurch diese Messung dann unabhängig von Änderungen oder Schwankungen der Drehgeschwindigkeit der Scheibe ist.The measurement can also be carried out as a distance measurement be, with a measuring device, for example. An incremental encoder which is used which with the disc is coupled directly or indirectly, so that a certain Rotation of the disc also to a corresponding movement leads the measuring device. The measuring signals of the Displacement measuring devices can then be used to evaluate the distance between the corresponding edges of the Light barrier signal can be used, making this Measurement then independent of changes or fluctuations the speed of rotation of the disc.

Es ist nicht unbedingt erforderlich, den Anfang oder das Ende der Messung durch die Ermittlung des vorderen bzw. hinteren Randes der Aufnahmefächer mittels des Lichtstrahls zu bestimmen, sondern dies kann durch ein anderes Signal erreicht werden, bspw. ein Signal, das diesen Rand oder einen diesem benachbarten Ausgangspunkt markiert.It is not essential to start or that End of measurement by determining the front or rear edge of the compartments by means of the light beam to determine but this can be done by another signal can be reached, for example a signal that this edge or marked a starting point adjacent to this.

Ein entsprechendes Signal kann durch die Abtastung von Markierungen auf der Scheibe bzw. am Rande der Scheibe erzeugt werden. Diese Markierungen können aber auch von der Wegmeßeinrichtung abgelesen werden, bspw. kann die Auflösung der Wegmeßeinrichtung so sein, daß jeder tausendste Impuls den Rand eines Aufnahmefaches an dem Überschneidungspunkt mit dem Lichtstrahl oder einen benachbarten Punkt markiert, der genauso für der Messung dienen kann.A corresponding signal can be obtained by sampling Markings on the disc or on the edge of the disc be generated. These markings can also be from the Position measuring device can be read, for example Resolution of the measuring device so that everyone thousandth pulse the edge of a compartment on the Point of intersection with the light beam or a adjacent point marked, which is the same for the measurement can serve.

Es ist auch möglich, Meßzeitfenster zu definieren, während denen die Aufnahmefächer der Scheibe sich durch den Lichtstrahl hindurchbewegen, und nur solche Meßsignale auszuwerten, die während dieser Meßzeitfenster entstehen.It is also possible to define measurement time windows while which the storage compartments of the disc through Move light beam through, and only such measurement signals evaluate that arise during this measurement time window.

Zur Stabilisierung der Lage der Münzen in den Aufnahmefächern der Scheibe kann auch eine von der kreisrunden Gestalt abweichende Lochform, bspw. eine Lochform mit zwei in Drehrichtung der Scheibe oder dieser entgegengesetzt konvergierenden geraden Seiten verwendet werden. To stabilize the position of the coins in the Compartments of the disc can also be one of the circular shape deviating hole shape, for example Hole shape with two in the direction of rotation of the disc or this oppositely converging straight sides are used will.

Im allgemeinen gilt, daß alle Messungen, die nicht zu einer einwandfreien Identifizierung einer jeweiligen Münze führen, dazu ausgenützt werden, mittels einer entsprechenden Ausstoßeinrichtung die Münzen in einen die Scheibe speisenden Sammeltrichter zurückzuschicken, so daß die Münze erneut von der Scheibe aufgenommen und gemessen wird.In general, that all measurements, which do not lead to the correct identification of a lead the respective coin, to be used by means of the coins into a corresponding ejection device to send back the disc feeding funnel, see above that the coin was picked up again by the disc and is measured.

Obwohl das Verfahren bzw. die Vorrichtung nach der Erfindung eine eindeutige Erkennung von Fremdmünzen ermöglicht, ist es immer denkbar, daß die erfolgte Messung unter irregulären, evtl. nicht einwandfrei als solche erkannten Bedingungen erfolgt, so daß an der Zuverlässigkeit der Messung gezweifelt werden soll. Aus diesem Grund wird eine Fremdmünze nicht direkt in ein Fremdgeldfach geschickt, sondern erstmals in den Trichter zurückgeführt.Although the method and the device according to the invention enables clear recognition of foreign coins, it is always conceivable that the measurement taken under irregular, possibly not correctly recognized as such Conditions so that the reliability of the Measurement should be doubted. For this reason, a Foreign coin is not sent directly to a foreign currency compartment, but returned to the funnel for the first time.

Dies führt dazu, daß am Ende einer Meßreihe die Konzentration von Fremdmünzen steigt, so daß dann unmittelbar nacheinander mehrere, bspw. zwei, drei oder mehr Fremdmünzen festgestellt werden. Dies kann als Maß dafür verwertet werden, daß die Messungen zuverlässig unter regulären Bedingungen erfolgt sind und es sich tatsächlich um Fremdmünzen handelt. Diese können dann in das Fremdgeldfach aussortiert oder zur näheren Inspektion ausgesondert werden.This means that at the end of a series of measurements the concentration of foreign coins rises, so that then immediately one after the other several, for example two, three or more foreign coins be determined. This can be used as a measure of this be that the measurements are reliable under regular Conditions have occurred and are actually Foreign coins. These can then be placed in the borrowed money compartment sorted out or sorted out for closer inspection will.

Mit diesem Verfahren bzw. dieser Vorrichtung versucht man daher nicht durch immer steigenden Aufwand die Fremdmünzen besser und einwandfreier zu erkennen, sondern führt sie einer erneuten Durchmesserprüfung zu, was insgesamt einen reduzierten Aufwand darstellt. One tries with this method or this device therefore not foreign coins due to ever increasing effort to recognize better and more impeccably, but leads them a new diameter test to what a total represents reduced effort.

Nach der Identifizierung der einzelnen Münzen in der Lochscheibe können diese wie bspw.in der EP-A-209 675 beschrieben, einer Sortierstrecke zugeführt werden oder man kann einfach aufgrund der Identifizierung und der Anzahl der jeweiligen Münzen den Gesamtwert der Münzen ohne Sortierung ermitteln.After identifying the individual coins in the perforated disc these can be found, for example, in EP-A-209 675 described, fed to a sorting line or one can simply because of identification and number of the respective coins the total value of the coins without Determine sorting.

Die Erfindung wird nachfolgend anhand von Ausführungsbeispielen näher erläutert unter Bezugnahme auf die Zeichnung, in welcher zeigen:

Fig. 1
eine erfindungsgemäße Münzidentifizier- und Sortiereinrichtung,
Fig. 2
eine Seitenansicht der Münzidentifizier- und Sortiereinrichtung der Fig. 1,
Fig. 3
eine schematische Darstellung eines Teils der Lochscheibe der Ausführung nach den Fig. 1 und 2,
Fig. 4A bis 4D
verschiedene Stadien bei der Ermittlung der Identität eines Ein-DM-Stückes,
Fig. 5
eine graphische Darstellung des Lichtschrankensignals bei der Durchführung der Messung nach den Fig. 4A bis 4D,
Fig. 6
eine schematische Darstellung von drei möglichen Lagen eines Zehnpfennigstückes bei der Durchführung einer Messung,
Fig. 7
eine schematische Darstellung von drei verschiedenen Lagen eines Fünfmarkstückes bei der Durchführung einer Messung,
Fig. 8
eine abgewandelte Lochform zur Stabilisierung der Lage der gemessenen Münze.
Fig. 9
eine abgewandelte Ausführungsform der Erkennungseinrichtung.
Fig. 10
eine erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung mit einer Positioniereinrichtung in Form einer stationär angeordneten Bürste,
Fig. 11
eine schematische Darstellung der Lochscheibe der Fig. 10 mit Bürste in Pfeilrichtung XI der Fig. 10 betrachtet,
Fig. 12
eine schematische Darstellung ähnlich der Fig. 11, jedoch von einer abgewandelten Ausführungsform,
Fig. 13
eine schematische Darstellung ähnlich der Fig. 11, jedoch mit einer besonderen Lochform,
Fig. 14
eine Darstellung ähnlich der Fig. 11, jedoch mit einer Positioniereinrichtung in Form eines Blatteils,
Fig. 15
eine schematische Darstellung der Einrichtung der Fig. 14 entsprechend den Pfeilen XV-XV,
Fig. 16
eine schematische Darstellung ähnlich der Fig. 14, jedoch von einer abgewandelten Ausführungsform mit einer anderen Positioniereinrichtung,
Fig. 17
eine schematische Ansicht der Ausführungsform der Fig. 16 entsprechend der Schnittebene XVII-XVII gesehen, und
Fig. 18
bis 23 Darstellungen ähnlich der Fig. 16 zur Erläuterung der Wirkungsweise der Vorrichtung der Fig. 16 bei Umdrehung der Lochscheibe.
The invention is explained in more detail below on the basis of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawing, in which:
Fig. 1
a coin identification and sorting device according to the invention,
Fig. 2
2 shows a side view of the coin identification and sorting device of FIG. 1,
Fig. 3
2 shows a schematic illustration of part of the perforated disk of the embodiment according to FIGS. 1 and 2,
4A to 4D
different stages in determining the identity of a one-DM piece,
Fig. 5
4A to 4D, a graphical representation of the light barrier signal when performing the measurement according to FIGS.
Fig. 6
1 shows a schematic representation of three possible positions of a ten pfennig piece when carrying out a measurement,
Fig. 7
1 shows a schematic representation of three different layers of a five-mark piece when carrying out a measurement,
Fig. 8
a modified hole shape to stabilize the position of the measured coin.
Fig. 9
a modified embodiment of the detection device.
Fig. 10
a device according to the invention with a positioning device in the form of a stationary brush,
Fig. 11
10 shows a schematic illustration of the perforated disk of FIG. 10 with a brush in the direction of arrow XI of FIG. 10,
Fig. 12
11 shows a schematic illustration similar to FIG. 11, but of a modified embodiment,
Fig. 13
11 shows a schematic illustration similar to FIG. 11, but with a special hole shape,
Fig. 14
11 shows a representation similar to FIG. 11, but with a positioning device in the form of a sheet part,
Fig. 15
14 shows a schematic representation of the device of FIG. 14 according to the arrows XV-XV,
Fig. 16
14 shows a schematic illustration similar to FIG. 14, but of a modified embodiment with a different positioning device,
Fig. 17
is a schematic view of the embodiment of FIG. 16 seen along the section plane XVII-XVII, and
Fig. 18
to 23 representations similar to FIG. 16 to explain the mode of operation of the device of FIG. 16 when the perforated disk is rotated.

In allen Figuren werden die gleichen Bezugszeichen für die gleichen Bauteile oder Bauteile mit gleicher Funktion verwendet.In all figures, the same reference numerals for the same components or components with the same function used.

Die erfindungsgemäße Münzidentifizierungs- und Sortiereinrichtung der Fig. 1 und 2 besteht aus einem Sammeltrichter 10 zur Aufnahme der zu identifizierenden Münzen, einer drehbaren Lochscheibe 12, welche eine geneigte Lage entsprechend der Fig. 2 aufweist und um eine Drehachse 14 von einem Motor 16 über ein Getriebe 18 und eine Welle 20 zu einer in Pfeilrichtung 22 gerichteten Drehbewegung antreibbar ist. Der sich unterhalb der Welle 20 befindliche Teil der Lochscheibe 12 taucht in den Sammeltrichter 10 ein, so daß einzelne Münzen (in den Fig. 1 und 2 nicht gezeigt) mittels der Löcher der Lochscheibe 12 nach oben und durch eine am Gestell 24 der Münzidentifizier- und Sortiereinrichtung ortsfest befestigte Lichtschrankenanordnung 26 hindurchtransportiert werden. Auf an sich bekannte Weise wird dafür gesorgt, daß zwei Münzen nicht gleichzeitig ein Loch der Lochscheibe besetzen. The coin identification and sorting device according to the invention 1 and 2 consists of a collecting funnel 10 for receiving the coins to be identified, one rotatable perforated disc 12, which corresponds to an inclined position 2 and around an axis of rotation 14 of to a motor 16 via a transmission 18 and a shaft 20 a rotational movement directed in the direction of arrow 22 is. The part located below the shaft 20 the perforated disc 12 dips into the collecting funnel 10, so that individual coins (not shown in Figs. 1 and 2) by means of the holes in the perforated disc 12 upwards and through one on the frame 24 of the coin identification and sorting device Fixed light barrier arrangement 26 be transported through. In a manner known per se It is ensured that two coins are not one at the same time Occupy the hole in the perforated disc.

Um zu verhindern, daß die Münzen aus den Löchern 28 der Lochscheibe 12 herausfallen, befindet sich auf der Rückseite der Lochscheibe 12 ein teilkreisförmiger Ring 30, der hinter der Lochscheibe 12 angeordnet ist und lediglich im Bereich der Lichtschranke 26 eine Ausnehmung aufweist und dessen Endkante durch das Bezugszeichen 31 in Fig. 1 gekennzeichnet ist. Im Endbereich des Ringes 30 nach der Lichtschranke 26 befindet sich eine elektromagnetisch betätigte Ausstoßeinrichtung 32, welcher dazu dient, nicht einwandfrei identifizierbare Münzen aus der Lochscheibe 12 herauszustoßen, so daß diese in den Sammeltrichter 10 zurückfallen. Die Ausstoßeinrichtung 32 kann aber auch anders ausgebildet sein, und beispielsweise mittels eines Luftstoßes für das Ausstoßen der Münzen sorgen.To prevent the coins from the holes 28 of the Hole plate 12 fall out, is on the back the perforated disc 12 is a part-circular ring 30, the is arranged behind the perforated disc 12 and only in Area of the light barrier 26 has a recess and the end edge of which is identified by reference numeral 31 in FIG. 1 is marked. In the end region of the ring 30 after the Light barrier 26 is an electromagnetic actuated ejector 32, which serves not perfectly identifiable coins from perforated disk 12 push out so that this in the collecting funnel 10th fall behind. The ejection device 32 can also be designed differently, and for example by means of a Blow air to eject the coins.

Nicht ausgestoßene Münzen werden aufgrund der geneigten Lage der Lochscheibe 12 automatisch auf eine schräg nach unten gerichtete Schiene 34 der Sortiereinrichtung gegeben und rollen entlang dieser Schiene hinunter. Das Bezugszeichen 36 deutet auf eine weitere elektromagnetische Ausstoßeinrichtung hin, die einwandfrei erkannte Fremdmünzen in ein Fremdmünzfach 38 hineinschickt und zwar dadurch, daß die Ausstoßeinrichtung 36 die entsprechenden Fremdmünzen von der Schiene 34 herabstößt. Auch diese Ausstoßeinrichtung kann anders ausgebildet sein. Die Ausstoßeinrichtung 36 wird durch Synchronisation mit der Lochscheibe zeitrichtig betätigt oder zur Feinabstimmung mit einem Sensor beim Eintreffen einer Fremdmünze angesteuert. Unmittelbar unterhalb der schräg nach unten gerichteten Schiene 34 fängt der Ring 30 wieder an.Coins not ejected will be inclined due to the Position of the perforated disc 12 automatically at an angle given below directed rail 34 of the sorting device and roll down this rail. The reference number 36 indicates another electromagnetic Ejection device, the perfectly recognized foreign coins sends into a foreign coin compartment 38 and that in that the ejector 36 the corresponding Foreign coins pushes down from the rail 34. This too Ejection device can be designed differently. The Ejector 36 is synchronized with the Perforated disc actuated at the right time or for fine tuning controlled with a sensor when a foreign coin arrives. Immediately below the sloping down directed rail 34, the ring 30 starts again.

Die Sortiereinrichtung weist eine Reihe von Abweisern 40 auf, die in verschiedenen Abständen d1 bis d7 von der Schiene 34 angeordnet sind und die Münzen entsprechend ihren Durchmessern in die jeweiligen Fächer 42 hineinbefördern. Das Bezugszeichen 45 deutet auf eine Bedienungstastatur hin, welche je nach dem tatsächlichen Verwendungszweck der Münzenidentifiziervorrichtung ausgebildet ist und an einen lediglich schematisch angedeuteten Auswertungsrechner 44 angeschlossen ist, an den die Lichtschrankenanordnung 26 sowie die Ausstoßeinrichtungen 32 und 36 und ggf. andere Münzenidentifiziereinrichtungen oder weitere Rechner, beispielsweise beim Einsatz in Banken, angeschlossen sind (Steuerleitungen nicht gezeigt), während das Bezugszeichen 46 eine Anzeige darstellt, die ebenfalls an den Auswertungsrechner 44 angeschlossen, den Gesamtwert der gezählten Echtmünzen anzeigt.The sorting device has a number of deflectors 40 on at different distances d1 to d7 from the Rail 34 are arranged and the coins accordingly convey their diameters into the respective compartments 42. The reference numeral 45 indicates an operating keyboard depending on the actual purpose the coin identification device is formed and to an evaluation computer, indicated only schematically 44 is connected to which the light barrier arrangement 26 and the ejection devices 32 and 36 and if necessary, other coin identification devices or others Computer, for example when used in banks, connected (control lines not shown) while the Reference numeral 46 represents a display which is also on connected to the evaluation computer 44, the total value of displays counted real coins.

Die Sortierung kann auch nach anderen Prinzipien durchgeführt werden. Bspw. kann die Schrägschiene anstatt mit festen Abweisern mit autonom arbeitenden Abweisern ausgestattet werden. Auch kann ein Zwangsführungssortierer, z.B. ein Band- oder Kettensortierer mit festen, autonom arbeitenden oder angesteuerten Abweisern zum Einsatz kommen.The sorting can also be carried out according to other principles will. E.g. can the inclined rail instead of with fixed bumpers equipped with autonomously working bumpers will. A forced guidance sorter, e.g. a belt or chain sorter with fixed, autonomously working or controlled deflectors are used.

Wie aus Fig. 2 hervorgeht, besteht die Lichtschranke 26 aus einem Lichtsender 48 und einem Lichtempfänger 50, die beide an den Auswertungsrechner 44 angeschlossen sind.As can be seen from FIG. 2, the light barrier 26 consists of a light transmitter 48 and a light receiver 50, both are connected to the evaluation computer 44.

Aus Fig. 2 ist auch ein Inkrementalgeber 52 ersichtlich, dessen Scheibe am Ende der Motorwelle 54 des Motors 16 angebracht ist. Wie üblich bei solchen Inkrementalgebern, erzeugt das Erfassungsteil 53 aufgrund der Drehung der Scheibe eine fein aufgelöste Pulsfolge, die ebenfalls an den Rechner 44 angelegt wird. Das Verfahren zur Identifizierung der Münzen wird nachfolgend anhand der weiteren Figuren näher erläutert. Die Fig. 3 zeigt zunächst einen Ausschnitt aus der Lochscheibe 12 der Fig. 1 und 2 mit drei kreisrunden aufeinanderfolgenden Löchern 28, deren Mittelpunkte 56 bei Drehung der Lochscheibe 12 um die Drehachse 14 eine kreisförmige Bahn 58 beschreiben, die in Fig. 3 strichpunktiert dargestellt ist. Mit 60 wird ein Querschnitt durch den Lichtstrahl der Lichtschranke 26 gezeigt, wo dieser Lichtstrahl die Ebene der Lochscheibe 12 durchquert. Man erkennt, daß der Lichtstrahl 60 radial innerhalb der Bahn 56 liegt, damit dieser Lichtstrahl auch die kleinsten und größten erwarteten Echtmünzen erfaßt. Der Lichtstrahl 60 könnte aber auch radial außerhalb der Bahn 58 liegen, sofern sichergestellt ist, daß auch die kleinsten Münzen von ihm erfaßt werden. Der Lichtstrahl 60 beschreibt eine Kreisbahn 80 auf der Oberfläche der Lochscheibe 12.An incremental encoder 52 can also be seen from FIG. its disc at the end of the motor shaft 54 of the motor 16 is appropriate. As usual with such incremental encoders, generates the detection part 53 due to the rotation of the Disk a finely resolved pulse train, which is also on the computer 44 is created. The identification process the coins are subsequently based on the others Figures explained in more detail. 3 shows one Detail from the perforated disc 12 of FIGS. 1 and 2 with three circular successive holes 28, the centers of which 56 when rotating the perforated disc 12 about the axis of rotation 14 describe a circular path 58 which is shown in FIG. 3 is shown in broken lines. At 60 there is a cross section shown by the light beam from the light barrier 26, where this light beam reaches the plane of the perforated disc 12 traverses. It can be seen that the light beam 60 is radial lies within the path 56 so that this light beam too the smallest and largest expected real coins. Of the However, light beam 60 could also be radially outside the path 58 are provided that it is ensured that even the smallest Coins are captured by him. The light beam 60 describes a circular path 80 on the surface of the perforated disk 12th

Fig. 3 zeigt außerdem zwei Markierungen 62, die bei einer Ausführungsvariante mit einem entsprechenden Sensor (nicht gezeigt) zusammenarbeiten, der bei Abtastung der Markierungen Signale erzeugt, die der Schaffung eines Meßzeitfensters dienen können oder ein Zeitmeßfenster darstellen. Bei einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform weisen die Markierungen 62 die Form von Löchern auf, die mit einem transparenten oder dunklen (lichtreflektierenden) Kunststoff gefüllt sind und von einem Sensor in Form einer Lichtschranke (nicht gezeigt) abgetastet werden. Durch die Füllung der Löcher 62 mit Kunststoff wird ein Verstopfen dieser Löcher mit Verschmutzungen wirksam vermieden. Wird ein Meßzeitfenster erzeugt, so kann dieses dazu ausgenutzt werden, daß eine Messung nur innerhalb des Meßzeitfensters zwischen zwei aufeinanderfolgenden Löchern 62 möglich ist. Die "Löcher" 62 können auch rein elektronisch durch bestimmte Impulse aus der Pulsfolge des Inkrementalgebers 52 markiert werden und dem gleichen Zweck dienen, d.h. es müssen keine tatsächlichen Löcher 62 vorhanden sein.Fig. 3 also shows two markings 62, which at one Design variant with a corresponding sensor (not shown) work together when scanning the markings Generates signals that create a measurement window can serve or represent a time measurement window. In a preferred embodiment, the markings 62 the shape of holes with a transparent or dark (light reflecting) plastic are filled and by a sensor in the form of a light barrier (not shown) can be scanned. Through the Filling the holes 62 with plastic will clog them these holes with dirt effectively avoided. Becomes generates a measurement time window, this can be used for this be that a measurement only within the measurement window between two successive holes 62 is possible. The "holes" 62 can also be purely electronic certain pulses from the pulse train of the incremental encoder 52 are marked and serve the same purpose, i.e. it there need not be any actual holes 62.

Die Fig. 4A bis 4D zeigen nun das Messprinzip während der Drehung der Lochscheibe 12 in Anwesenheit eines Ein-DM-Stückes 64 im Loch 28.4A to 4D now show the measuring principle during the Rotation of the perforated disc 12 in the presence of a DM piece 64 in hole 28.

Im Stadium der Fig. 4A überquert der Lochrand 66 den Lichtstrahl 60, so daß der bisher durch das Material der Lochscheibe 12 unterbrochene Lichtstrahl freigegeben wird und es entsteht die ansteigende Flanke A des Lichtschrankenausgangssignals 68 der Fig. 5. Es versteht sich, daß es sich hier um eine manipulierte Flanke handelt, welche bspw. durch Differenzierung des eigentlichen Ausgangssignals erzeugt wird, um eine steile Schaltflanke zu erreichen.4A, the hole edge 66 crosses the light beam 60, so that so far by the material of the perforated disc 12 interrupted light beam is released and the rising edge A of the light barrier output signal is created 68 of Fig. 5. It is understood that it is here is a manipulated flank, which, for example. by differentiating the actual output signal is generated to achieve a steep switching edge.

Im ersten Freiraum 70 zwischen dem Lochrand 66 und der vorderen Kante 72 der Münze 64 bleibt der Lichtstrahl 60 ununterbrochen, so daß das entsprechende Ausgangssignal der Lichtschranke seine maximale Amplitude H in Fig. 5 aufweist.In the first free space 70 between the hole edge 66 and the The light beam 60 remains at the front edge 72 of the coin 64 continuously, so that the corresponding output signal of the Photoelectric barrier has its maximum amplitude H in FIG. 5 having.

Im Stadium der Fig. 4B erreicht und überquert die vordere Kante 72 der Münze 64 den Lichtstrahl 60 und es entsteht die abfallende Flanke B des Lichtschrankensignals. Das Ausgangssignal der Lichtschranke geht auf den Wert 0 zurück.In the stage of Fig. 4B, the front reaches and crosses Edge 72 of the coin 64, the light beam 60 and it is created the falling edge B of the light barrier signal. The The output signal of the light barrier goes to the value 0 back.

Im weiteren Stadium bis zu der Fig. 4C bleibt der Lichtstrahl 60 dann unterbrochen, und zwar durch die Münze 24 im Bereich zwischen deren vorderer Kante 72 und deren hinterer Kante 74. Wenn die hintere Kante 74 den Lichtstrahl 60 überquert und diesen zunehmend freigibt, entsteht die steigende Flanke C in Fig. 5, und das Ausgangssignal der Lichtschranke erreicht dann wieder seine maximale Höhe H. Bei Weiterdrehung der Lochscheibe 12 bleibt der Signalpegel auf dem Wert H wenn der Lichtstrahl sich im weiteren Freiraum 76 befindet. Wenn der Lochrand 66 im Stadium der Fig. 4D den Lichtstrahl überquert, wird der Lichtstrahl noch einmal unterbrochen und das Signal sinkt wieder auf den Wert 0. Die Messung im Loch 28 mit der Münze 64 ist jetzt zu Ende und es folgt dann eine weitere Messung für das nächstfolgende Loch 28, wobei die entsprechende, wieder ansteigende Flanke des Lichtschrankensignals in Fig. 5 lediglich durch eine strichlierte Linie gezeigt ist.The light beam remains in the further stage up to FIG. 4C 60 then interrupted, namely by the coin 24 in Area between the front edge 72 and the rear edge Edge 74. When the rear edge 74 blocks the light beam 60 crosses and increasingly releases it, the rising edge C in Fig. 5, and the output signal of the The light barrier then reaches its maximum height H. As the perforated disk 12 continues to rotate, the signal level remains at the value H when the light beam continues to move Free space 76 is located. If the hole edge 66 in the stage of 4D crosses the light beam, the light beam becomes interrupted again and the signal goes up again the value 0. The measurement in hole 28 with coin 64 is now finished and another measurement for the next hole 28, being the corresponding one, again rising edge of the light barrier signal in FIG. 5 is shown only by a dashed line.

Der Abstand zwischen den zwei senkrechten Flanken A und B in Fig. 5 entspricht somit der Abmessung des Freiraumes 70 gemessen entlang der kreisförmigen Bahn 80. Der Abstand zwischen den Flanken B und C in Fig. 5 entspricht der Abmessung der Münze 64 entlang der durch die kreisförmige Bahn 80 beschriebenen Sehne 79. Der Abstand zwischen den Flanken C und D der Fig. 5 entspricht wiederum der Abmessung des Freiraumes 76, auch hier entlang der Kreisbahn 80 gemessen.The distance between the two vertical flanks A and B 5 thus corresponds to the dimension of the free space 70 measured along the circular path 80. The distance between edges B and C in Fig. 5 corresponds to Dimension of the coin 64 along the circular Lane 80 described tendon 79. The distance between the Flanks C and D of FIG. 5 again correspond to the dimension of the free space 76, also here along the circular path 80 measured.

Unter der Annahme, daß sich die Münze 64 genau in der dargestellten Position im Loch befindet, entsprechen sowohl die Abmessung des Freiraumes 70 als auch die Abmessung des Freiraumes 76 und auch die Länge der Sehne 79 einwandfrei den jeweiligen charakteristischen Längen für eine Ein-DM-Münze, so daß diese Münze durch die Ermittlung der Abstände zwischen den Flanken A und B, B und C bzw. C und D einwandfrei identifiziert werden kann. Assuming that the coin 64 is exactly in the position shown in the hole correspond to both the dimension of the free space 70 and the dimension of the Clearance 76 and the length of the tendon 79 perfectly the respective characteristic lengths for a one DM coin, so this coin by determining the distances between the flanks A and B, B and C or C and D can be easily identified.

Sollte die jeweilige Münze aufgrund der durchgeführten und ausgewerteten Messungen nicht einwandfrei identifiziert werden können, so wird sie in den Sammelbehälter 10 mittels der Ausstoßeinrichtung 32 zurückgeworfen und erneut geprüft. Diese Methode erlaubt engere Toleranzen, da im Zweifelsfall "nein" gesagt werden kann. Da die Toleranzen enger gezogen werden können, ist die Zuverlässigkeit der Identifizierung besser.Should the respective coin be carried out on the basis of and evaluated measurements not correctly identified can be, it is in the collecting container 10 by means of the ejector 32 is thrown back and again checked. This method allows tighter tolerances because in If in doubt "no" can be said. Because the tolerances is the reliability of the Identification better.

Als Grundmessung kann alleine die bogenförmige Sehne 79, die durch die Münze während der Umdrehung der Lochscheibe abgedeckt wird, gemessen werden. So wird die Lochgeometrie nicht einbezogen.As a basic measurement, the bow-shaped tendon 79, by the coin during the rotation of the perforated disc is covered, measured. So the hole geometry not included.

Die Ermittlung dieser Längen kann entweder als Zeitmessung durchgeführt werden, unter der Annahme, daß die Drehgeschwindigkeit der Lochscheibe während des Meßzeitraums konstant ist, oder kann als Wegmessung durchgeführt werden. Für den Weg wird vorzugsweise der Winkel gemessen, den die Lochscheibe zurücklegt. Dieser Winkel kann zwar an der Lochscheibe selbst gemessen werden, dies ist jedoch relativ ungenau und der Winkel wird vorzugsweise gemessen mit der Inkrementalscheibe 52 an der Motorwelle, die sich bspw. mit 2700 Umdrehungen pro Minute dreht. Diese Art der Winkelerfassung setzt voraus, daß starre Übersetzungsverhältnisse zwischen der Inkrementalscheibe an der Motorwelle und der Lochscheibe herrschen, was häufig der Fall ist, wenn ein Getriebe dazwischen liegt, das bevorzugterweise frei von Spiel ausgeführt werden soll. Technisch sind viele Lösungen denkbar.The determination of these lengths can either be a time measurement be carried out under the assumption that the rotational speed the perforated disc during the measurement period is constant, or can be carried out as a distance measurement. The angle is preferably measured for the path by the Covers the perforated disc. This angle can be at the Perforated disc itself can be measured, but this is relative imprecise and the angle is preferably measured with the Incremental disk 52 on the motor shaft, for example, with 2700 revolutions per minute. That kind of Angle detection requires rigid gear ratios between the incremental disc on the motor shaft and the perforated disc, which is often the case, if there is a transmission in between, preferably should be run free of play. Technically there are many Solutions conceivable.

Bei einer Zeitmessung wird das im Auswertungsrechner 44 vorhandene Taktsignal zur Zeitmessung herangezogen. In the case of a time measurement, this is in the evaluation computer 44 existing clock signal used for time measurement.

Aufgrund der Signale des Inkrementalgebers erfährt der Rechner 44 aber auch, ob die Drehgeschwindigkeit der Lochscheibe 12 während der Messung konstant ist. Sollte dies nicht der Fall sein, beispielsweise beim Anlaufen der Lochscheibe 12, so können über die Ausstoßeinrichtung 32 die Münzen wieder in den Sammelbehälter 10 zurückbefördert werden, bis die Drehgeschwindigkeit der Lochscheibe 12 konstant ist. Im allgemeinen sind das Anlaufen und das Stoppen der Lochscheibe nicht ideal für die Durchführung der Messungen. Dadurch, daß Messungen in diesen Phasen nicht berücksichtigt werden, bzw. die Münzen in diesen Phasen in den Sammelbehälter zurückbefördert werden, ist ein zusätzlicher Stoppmotor entbehrlich.Based on the signals from the incremental encoder, the Computer 44 but also whether the speed of rotation of the perforated disc 12 is constant during the measurement. Should this be not be the case, for example when starting the Perforated disk 12, so can via the ejection device 32nd the coins are returned to the collecting container 10 until the speed of rotation of the perforated disc 12 is constant. Generally the tarnish and that Stopping the perforated disc is not ideal for performing of measurements. By taking measurements in these phases are not taken into account, or the coins in these Phases are returned to the collection container an additional stop motor is unnecessary.

Bei Schwankungen im Betrieb, die bspw. durch den Widerstand des Münzengemisches auftreten können, werden die so gemessenen Münzen ebenfalls zurück in den Behälter 10 gefördert, da die Sicherheit der entsprechenden Messungen nicht gewährleistet ist.In the event of fluctuations in operation, for example due to the resistance of the mixed coins can occur, the measured in this way Coins are also conveyed back into the container 10, because the safety of the corresponding measurements is not is guaranteed.

Bei einer Wegmessung werden die Signale vom Inkrementalgeber 52 vom Auswertungsrechner 44 zur Ermittlung der Weglängen zwischen den Flanken A und B bzw. B und C und/oder C und D herangezogen.When measuring a distance, the signals from the incremental encoder 52 by the evaluation computer 44 to determine the Path lengths between flanks A and B or B and C and / or C and D are used.

Durch diese Wegmessung führen sich ändernde Drehgeschwindigkeiten der Lochscheibe 12 an sich nicht direkt zu einer Verfälschung des Meßwertes. Dennoch können Schwankungen der Drehgeschwindigkeit der Lochscheibe 12 zu unerwünschten Hin- und Herbewegungen der Münzen führen, so daß bspw. ein Zehnpfennigstück die drei verschiedenen Lagen entsprechend der Fig. 6 während der Messung annehmen könnte. Hierdurch ist eine Verfälschung aller drei Messungen, d.h. die Abmessungen der beiden Freiräume und der Sehnenlänge der Münze zu erwarten, so daß im Falle von Drehgeschwindigkeitsschwankungen der Lochscheibe 12 auch bei einer Wegmessung die Münzen vorsichtshalber unter der Einwirkung der Ausstoßeinrichtung 32 in den Behälter 10 zurückbefördert werden sollen.Changing rotational speeds result from this distance measurement the perforated disc 12 not directly to one Falsification of the measured value. Nevertheless, fluctuations in the Speed of rotation of the perforated disc 12 to undesirable Carry back and forth movements of the coins so that, for example Ten pfennig piece corresponding to the three different layers 6 could assume during the measurement. Hereby is a falsification of all three measurements, i.e. the dimensions of the two free spaces and the chord length of the coin to be expected, so that in the event of rotational speed fluctuations the perforated disc 12 even with a distance measurement the coins as a precaution under the influence of the Ejector 32 is conveyed back into the container 10 should be.

Eine Bewegung der Münzen innerhalb der Löcher der Lochscheibe 12 entsprechend der Fig. 6 ist nicht nur bei einer Schwankung der Drehgeschwindigkeit der Lochscheibe 12 zu erwarten, sondern kann auch andere Gründe haben. Fig. 6 zeigt auch, wie unterschiedliche Werte der Abmessung der beiden Freiräume 70 und 76 Information darüber geben können, daß die Münze keine stabile Lage innerhalb des Loches aufweist. In diesem Fall erfolgt ein Ausstoßen der Münze in den Sammelbehälter 10 zurück.A movement of the coins within the holes of the perforated disc 12 corresponding to FIG. 6 is not only one Fluctuation in the rotational speed of the perforated disc 12 to expect, but can also have other reasons. Fig. 6 also shows how different values of dimension of the give information about both spaces 70 and 76 can that the coin is not a stable position within the Has hole. In this case, the Coin back into the collecting container 10.

Fig. 7 zeigt im Prinzip den gleichen Sachverhalt, jedoch mit einem Fünfmarkstück, das in diesem Beispiel den größten Durchmesser der zu sortierenden Münzen aufweist. Auch hier weichen die beiden Freiräume 70, 76 voneinander ab, wobei aber diese wegen der Größe der Münze viel kleiner sind, als dies beim Beispiel der Fig. 6 der Fall ist. Dennoch können solche Lageänderungen der Münze aufgrund der Signale der Lichtschranke 26 erkannt werden.Fig. 7 shows in principle the same facts, however with a five mark piece, which in this example is the largest Has diameter of the coins to be sorted. Here too the two free spaces 70, 76 differ from one another, whereby but these are much smaller than because of the size of the coin this is the case in the example of FIG. 6. Still can such changes in position of the coin due to the signals of the Light barrier 26 can be recognized.

Die Fig. 8 zeigt eine abgewandelte Form des Loches 28, die zur Stabilisierung der Lage der Münzen dient. Diese abgewandelte Form ist im oberen Bereich kreisrund, weist jedoch im unteren Bereich zwei nach innen konvergierende gerade Seiten 90 und 92 auf, die eine Hin- und Herbewegung der Münzen weitestgehend vermeiden. Fig. 8 shows a modified form of the hole 28, the serves to stabilize the position of the coins. This modified form is circular in the upper area, shows however in the lower area two converging inwards straight pages 90 and 92 on the one back and forth movement avoid coins as much as possible.

Fig. 9 zeigt eine abgewandelte Vorrichtung, bei der zusätzlich zu der Messung der Sehnenlänge der Münze bzw. der Länge der entsprechenden Freiräume mittels des Lichtschrankenstrahls 60 eine Sonde 84 vorgesehen ist, um eine andere Eigenschaft der Münzen, bspw. die Legierung, zu ermitteln. Auch das Ergebnis dieser Messung kann an den Auswertungsrechner 44 angelegt werden und bei der Identifizierung der Münze berücksichtigt werden. Es kann sich bei der Sonde 84 beispielsweise um eine induktive Sonde oder Abtasteinrichtung, wie beispielsweise aus der GB-A-2 135 492 bekannt, und/oder eine kapazitive Sonde handeln.Fig. 9 shows a modified device, in addition for measuring the chord length of the coin or the Length of the corresponding free spaces using the light barrier beam 60 one probe 84 is provided to another To determine the property of the coins, for example the alloy. The result of this measurement can also be sent to the evaluation computer 44 be created and in the identification of the Coin are taken into account. Probe 84 may for example an inductive probe or scanner, as known for example from GB-A-2 135 492, and / or act as a capacitive probe.

Fig. 9 zeigt auch die Möglichkeit, die Ausstoßeinrichtung 32 so zu positionieren, daß sie gerade die jeweilige Münze aus dem Loch herausstoßen kann. Dies ist insofern günstig, als eine Verzögerung des Steuersignals für die Ausstoßeinrichtung 32 hier nicht mehr erforderlich ist.Fig. 9 also shows the possibility of the ejector Position 32 so that it is just the respective coin can poke out of the hole. This is cheap in that as a delay in the control signal for the Ejection device 32 is no longer required here.

Die durch die Markierungen 62 markierten Stellen bzw. die entsprechenden elektronischen Signale vom Inkrementalgeber können anstelle der Flanken A und D des Lichtschrankensignals der Fig. 5 für die Messung der Abmessungen der Freiräume 70 und 76 der Münze 64 herangezogen werden. Genauso können sie ein Zeitmeßfenster öffnen und schließen, so daß nur diejenigen Meßwerte, die innerhalb dieses Zeitmeßfensters entstehen, vom Auswertungsrechner 44 berücksichtigt werden. D.h., die Messung kann aber auch ausgelöst werden, bevor der Lochrand 66 die Lichtschranke 26 freigibt und so der Freiraum zwischen Lochrand und Münze gemessen wird. Durch diese Messung ist aus geometrischen Gründen die Größe der runden Münze 64 bestimmt, sofern diese richtig im Loch 28 liegt. Infolge der Dynamik ergibt sich bei gleichförmiger Bewegung der Lochscheibe für jeden Münzdurchmesser ein charakteristischer Meßwert. Dieser Meßwert kann in der Maschine gelernt werden.The positions marked by the markings 62 or the corresponding electronic signals from the incremental encoder can replace the edges A and D of the light barrier signal 5 for measuring the dimensions of the Free spaces 70 and 76 of the coin 64 can be used. You can also open and close a time measurement window, so that only those measured values that are within this time measurement window arise, taken into account by the evaluation computer 44 will. This means that the measurement can also be triggered before the hole edge 66 releases the light barrier 26 and so the space between the edge of the hole and the coin was measured becomes. For geometric reasons, this measurement means that Size of the round coin 64 determined, if this is correct in the Hole 28 is. As a result of the dynamics results in more uniform Movement of the perforated disc for every coin diameter a characteristic measured value. This measured value can be in the Machine to be learned.

Durch Verzögerung dieser Signale können bspw. die Stelle des Lochrandes 66 der Lochscheibe 12, an der dieser die gekrümmte Bahn 80 schneidet, simuliert werden.By delaying these signals, for example, the position of the perforated edge 66 of the perforated disc 12, on which the latter intersects curved path 80, can be simulated.

Es soll auch darauf hingewiesen werden, daß die Lichtschranke nicht unbedingt, so wie hier gezeigt, eine Transmissionslichtschranke sein muß, sondern auch eine Reflexionslichtschranke sein kann, bei der der Lichtempfänger auf der gleichen Seite der Lochscheibe angeordnet ist wie der Lichtsender.It should also be noted that the light barrier not necessarily, as shown here, a transmission light barrier must be, but also a reflection light barrier can be at which the light receiver is arranged on the same side of the perforated disc as the light transmitter.

Obwohl die soeben beschriebene Ausführungsform eine Sortiermaschine umfaßt, ist es ohne weiteres möglich, auf das Sortierprinzip zu verzichten und die Einrichtung lediglich als Geldzählautomaten oder Münzprüfer zu betreiben.Although the embodiment just described is a Sorting machine includes, it is easily possible to to dispense with the sorting principle and set up only as a cash counter or coin validator operate.

In der Praxis ist es sehr wichtig, eine Lochscheibenanordnung mit einer Positioniereinrichtung für die Münzen zu verwenden, damit sichergestellt wird, daß alle Münzen im Bereich des Lichtstrahls oder einer anderen Abtasteinrichtung, z.B. eines Bildlesegerätes stets eine erwünschte Position annehmen und nicht durch unterschiedliche Positionen oder durch sich ändernde Positionen zu einem unsicheren Meßergebnis führen.In practice it is very important to have a perforated disc arrangement with a positioning device for the coins to be used to ensure that all coins in the Area of the light beam or other scanning device, e.g. an image reader is always a desired one Take position and not by different Positions or by changing positions to one lead to an uncertain measurement result.

Fig. 10 zeigt ein erstes Beispiel für eine solche Positioniereinrichtung 100, hier in Form einer durch eine Bürste 102 gebildete mechanische Bremseinrichtung, welche von einer feststehenden, auf der anderen Seite der Lochscheibe angeordneten Traganordnung 104 getragen wird, wobei es sich bei dieser Traganordnung 104 beispielsweise um eine abgewandelte Ausführung des Ringes 30 oder des Rahmens 24 handeln kann. Konkret wird die Bürste 102 von einer Halterung 106 getragen, welche mit der Traganordnung 104 verschraubt ist.10 shows a first example of such a positioning device 100, here in the form of a brush 102 formed mechanical braking device, which from a fixed one, on the other side of the perforated disc arranged support assembly 104 is worn, it is in this support arrangement 104, for example by one modified version of the ring 30 or the frame 24 can act. Specifically, the brush 102 is one Bracket 106 worn, which with the support assembly 104th is screwed.

Die Länge der Borsten kann länger oder kürzer sein als gezeigt, wesentlich ist nur, daß die Borsten sämtliche mögliche vorkommende Münzen berühren müssen, um eine Bremswirkung auf die Münzen auszuüben.The length of the bristles can be longer or shorter than shown, it is only essential that the bristles all possible coins must touch to make one Braking on the coins.

Diese Bremswirkung ist schematisch in Fig. 11 veranschaulicht, wobei man aus der Fig. 11 auch sieht, daß die Längsseite der rechteckigen Bürste in Richtung des Pfeiles XI der Fig. 10 gesehen, in diesem Beispiel geringfügig kürzer gewählt ist als der Durchmesser der Löcher 28 der Lochscheibe 12. Aus Fig. 11 ist auch ersichtlich, daß die Bürste 102 eine kreisförmige Ausnehmung 108 aufweist, damit der Lichtstrahl 60 der Lichtschranke durch die Bürste hindurchgehen kann. Der Lichtsender (nicht gezeigt) wird in diesem Beispiel beispielsweise in der Halterung 106 angeordnet, während der Lichtempfänger (ebenfalls nicht gezeigt) auf der Traganordnung 104 montiert wird.This braking effect is shown schematically in FIG. 11 illustrates, wherein it can also be seen from FIG. 11 that the long side of the rectangular brush towards the Arrow XI of Fig. 10 seen in this example is selected slightly shorter than the diameter of the Holes 28 of the perforated disk 12. From Fig. 11 is also it can be seen that the brush 102 is circular Has recess 108 so that the light beam 60 Light barrier can go through the brush. Of the Light transmitter (not shown) is used in this example arranged for example in the holder 106 during the Light receiver (also not shown) on the Support assembly 104 is mounted.

Aus der Fig. 11 erkennt man, daß eine von der Lochscheibe 12 in Pfeilrichtung 22 herangeführte Münze 64 vor dem Erreichen der Bürste 102 im unteren Bereich des Loches 28 liegt, jedoch nicht an dessen radial innerster Stelle 65. Die genaue Lage der ankommenden Münze 64 ist bei dieser Ausführungsform unwichtig. Während der Drehung der Lochscheibe kommen die Borsten der Bürste 102 in Berührung mit der Münze 64 und üben eine Brems- und Positionierwirkung auf diese Münze aus, so daß die Münze 64 in dem Bereich, in dem sie noch unter der Einwirkung der Bürste 102 steht, am in Fig. 11 linken Lochrand des Loches 28 zu liegen kommt und zwar so, daß die Münze in dem Bereich 67 des linken Lochrandes diesen dort berührt, wo ihn die kreisförmige Bahn 58 der Lochmitten schneidet. Nachdem das jeweilige Loch 28 den Wirkungsbereich der Bürste verlassen hat, und beispielsweise die Position auf der rechten Seite der Fig. 11 erreicht hat, rollt die Münze 64 von der durch die Bürste festgelegte Position in die dort gezeigte Position 69 weg.From Fig. 11 it can be seen that one of the perforated disc 12 in the direction of arrow 22 coin 64 in front of Reach brush 102 in the lower region of hole 28 lies, but not at its radially innermost point 65. The exact location of the incoming coin 64 is in this Embodiment unimportant. During the rotation of the The bristles of the brush 102 come into contact with the perforated disk with the coin 64 and practice a braking and Positioning effect on this coin, so that the coin 64th in the area where they are still under the influence of Brush 102 stands on the left edge of the hole in FIG. 11 28 comes to rest so that the coin in the Area 67 of the left edge of the hole touches it where the circular path 58 of the hole centers intersects it. After the respective hole 28 the area of effect of Brush has left, and for example the position on 11, the coin rolls 64 from the position defined by the brush to the position 69 shown there away.

Fig. 12 zeigt eine abgewandelte Ausführungsform, bei der anstelle einer Lichtschranke eine induktive und/oder kapazitive Abtasteinrichtung 84 zur Anwendung gelangt. In diesem Falle ist die kreisförmige Ausnehmung 108 der Bürste im Durchmesser größer gestaltet, um ausreichend Platz für die induktive bzw. kapazitive Sonde 84 zu schaffen. Die Wirkungsweise dieser Ausführungsform in bezug auf die Positionierung der Münzen in den Löchern 28 ist aber identisch mit der der Ausführung der Fig. 10 und 11, weshalb sie hier nicht weiter beschrieben wird.Fig. 12 shows a modified embodiment in which instead of a light barrier, an inductive and / or capacitive scanning device 84 is used. In in this case the circular recess 108 of the brush designed larger in diameter to provide enough space for to create the inductive or capacitive probe 84. The Operation of this embodiment with respect to the Positioning of the coins in the holes 28 is however identical to that of the embodiment of FIGS. 10 and 11, which is why it is not described further here.

Fig. 13 zeigt eine Anordnung ähnlich der Ausführung nach den Fig. 10 und 11, bei der jedoch die Löcher 28 der Lochscheibe 12 eine besondere Gestalt aufweisen, damit die Münzen nach Positionierung durch die Bürste 102 zwangsgeführt sind und eine absolut stabile Lage annehmen. Zu diesem Zweck weisen die Löcher 28 der Ausführungsform nach Fig. 13 eine Gestalt ähnlich der der Fig. 8 auf, wobei aber hier die geradlinigen Bereich 90 und 92 der Lochform nicht radial nach innen konvergieren, sondern in Umfangsrichtung der Lochscheibe im Bereich der Bahn 58 der Lochmitten, und zwar im in der Umlaufrichtung 22 der Lochscheibe gesehenen hinteren Bereich der Löcher 28.Fig. 13 shows an arrangement similar to the embodiment of 10 and 11, but in which the holes 28 of the Perforated disk 12 have a special shape so that Coins after being positioned by brush 102 are positively guided and assume an absolutely stable situation. For this purpose, the holes 28 have the embodiment 13 a shape similar to that of FIG. 8, wherein but here the rectilinear areas 90 and 92 of the hole shape do not converge radially inwards, but in Circumferential direction of the perforated disk in the region of the web 58 Hole centers, in the direction of rotation 22 of the Perforated disc seen rear area of holes 28.

Die eine mechanische Bremswirkung ausübende Positioniereinrichtung kann aber auch anders ausgebildet sein als in den Fig. 10 bis 13 gezeigt ist. Eine weitere Möglichkeit der Realisierung einer mechanischen Bremse ist in den Fig. 14 und 15 gezeigt. Hier wird die Bremswirkung durch ein Blatteil 110 bewerkstelligt, das hier als bewegliche Klappe ausgebildet und um ein Gelenk 112 an der Halterung 106 schwenkbar angelenkt ist. Eine schematisch dargestellte Druckfeder 114 drückt die bewegliche Klappe 110 in Richtung der Lochscheibe, so daß das freie Ende 116 der Klappe 110 in Berührung mit den zu identifizierenden Münzen gelangen kann, wenn diese in einem jeweiligen Loch der Lochscheibe an der Bremseinrichtung 100 vorbeitransportiert werden. Auch in dieser Ausführungsform weist die Bremse eine Ausnehmung 108 auf, damit der Lichtstrahl der Lichtschranke nicht durch die Klappe 110 unterbrochen wird. Die Klappe 110 bzw. deren der Lochscheibe zugewandte Seite kann aus Kunststoff bestehen, so daß eine ausreichende Reibung ohne ausgeprägten Verschleiß erreicht werden kann.The mechanical braking effect Positioning device can also be designed differently be as shown in Figs. 10 to 13. Another Possibility of realizing a mechanical brake 14 and 15. Here is the braking effect accomplished by a sheet member 110, which here as movable flap and formed around a hinge 112 on the Bracket 106 is pivoted. A schematic compression spring 114 shown presses the movable flap 110 in the direction of the perforated disc, so that the free end 116 the flap 110 in contact with those to be identified Coins can get into a hole the perforated disc on the brake device 100 be transported past. Also in this embodiment the brake has a recess 108 so that the Light beam from the light barrier does not pass through the flap 110 is interrupted. The flap 110 or their The side facing the perforated disc can be made of plastic, so that sufficient friction without pronounced Wear can be achieved.

Die Bremseinrichtung kann aber auch anders ausgebildet werden. Beispielsweise kann sie durch eine Luftdüse gebildet werden (nicht gezeigt), welche mittels eines gerichteten Luftstrahles die Münzen in Richtung der hintereinanderliegenden Löcher drückt. Auch kämen elektromagnetische Bremseinrichtungen (ebenfalls nicht gezeigt) in Frage. The braking device can also be designed differently will. For example, it can be formed by an air nozzle (not shown), which by means of a directed Air jet the coins towards the one behind the other Presses holes. There would also be electromagnetic ones Braking devices (also not shown) in question.

Die Positioniereinrichtung muß aber nicht als Bremseinrichtung ausgebildet sein, sie kann durchaus auch als Beschleunigungseinrichtung ausgebildet werden, um beispielsweise die Münzen in Richtung des vorlaufenden Lochrandes zu drücken. Auch wäre es schließlich denkbar, die Münzen mittels einer Positioniereinrichtung auch an den oberen oder unteren Lochrand oder aber auch an eine beliebige Stelle der Löcher zu drücken.The positioning device does not have to be a braking device be trained, it can also be used as an acceleration device be trained to, for example the coins towards the leading edge of the hole to press. Finally, it would also be conceivable for the coins by means of a positioning device also on the upper ones or lower edge of the hole or also to any one Place to press the holes.

Fig. 16 und 17 zeigen eine Positioniereinrichtung, die so ausgebildet ist, daß die Münzen an den vorlaufenden Rand der Löcher gedrückt werden.16 and 17 show a positioning device that so is formed that the coins on the leading edge of the holes are pressed.

Zu diesem Zweck weist die Positioniereinrichtung 100 in diesem Beispiel zwei umlaufende Riemen 120, 122 auf, die um zwei Umlenkwalzen bzw. -rollen 124 und 126 sowie um eine von einem Motor 128 angetriebene Walze 130 laufen. Die Achsen der Umlenkrollen 124 und 126 sowie der Antriebswalze 130 liegen parallel zueinander und zur Ebene der Lochscheibe. Es müssen nicht zwei Riemen vorgesehen werden, sondern diese Ausführungsform könnte auch mit lediglich einem Riemen realisiert werden. Auch kämen schließlich mehr Riemen als zwei in Betracht.For this purpose, the positioning device 100 in this example two circumferential belts 120, 122 on the two deflecting rollers or rollers 124 and 126 and one roller 130 driven by a motor 128. The Axes of the deflection rollers 124 and 126 and the drive roller 130 are parallel to each other and to the plane of the perforated disc. There is no need to have two straps but this embodiment could also with only a belt can be realized. Finally, more would come Belts considered as two.

Die Umlenkwalzen 124 und 126 werden in diesem Beispiel an gefederten Aufhängungen 132 und 134 getragen, so daß die jeweiligen Walzen 124 und 126 stets in Richtung der Lochscheibe gedrückt werden und somit beim Vorbeilaufen eines Loches 28 teilweise in das Loch hineingedrückt werden und auf diese Weise zuverlässig in Berührung mit den jeweiligen Münzen kommen. Hiermit wird sichergestellt, daß die Positionierwirkung der Riemen 120, 122 zuverlässig auf die Münzen ausgeübt wird. The deflection rollers 124 and 126 are on in this example sprung suspensions 132 and 134 worn so that the respective rollers 124 and 126 always in the direction of the perforated disc are pressed and thus when one passes Hole 28 are partially pushed into the hole and in this way reliably in contact with the respective Coins are coming. This ensures that the positioning effect the belt 120, 122 reliably on the Coins are exercised.

Wenn die Umlaufgeschwindigkeit der Riemen 120, 122 so gewählt ist, daß diese höher liegt als die Oberflächengeschwindigkeit der Lochscheibe im Bereich der Riemen, so werden die in den einzelnen Löchern 28 der Lochscheibe angeordneten Münzen gegenüber der Lochscheibe beschleunigt und an das vorlaufende Lochrand gedrückt, so daß sie hier eine stabile Stellung für die Dauer der Messung annehmen. Die in den Fig. 16 und 17 gezeigte Einrichtung könnte aber auch als Bremseinrichtung dienen. In diesem Falle wäre die Umlaufgeschwindigkeit der Riemen kleiner zu wählen oder in die entgegengesetzte Richtung zu richten als die Oberflächengeschwindigkeit der Lochscheibe im Bereich der Riemen.If the rotational speed of the belts 120, 122 so is chosen that this is higher than the surface speed the perforated disc in the area of the belt, see above are those in the individual holes 28 of the perforated disc arranged coins accelerated opposite the perforated disc and pressed against the leading edge of the hole, so that it is here assume a stable position for the duration of the measurement. The device shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 could, however also serve as a braking device. In this case it would be Circulation speed of belts to choose smaller or in to go in the opposite direction than that Surface speed of the perforated disc in the range of Belt.

Angenommen, daß die Positioniereinrichtung 100 der Fig. 16 und 17 zur Positionierung der Münzen an dem vorlaufenden Lochrand ausgebildet ist, wird ihre Wirkungsweise anhand der Fig. 18 bis 23 kurz erläutert.Assume that the positioning device 100 of FIG. 16 and 17 for positioning the coins on the leading one Hole edge is formed, its mode of action is based on 18 to 23 briefly explained.

In Fig. 18 sieht man eine Münze 64, die von der Lochscheibe 12 durch Drehung derselben in Pfeilrichtung 22 an die Positioniereinrichtung herangeführt wird. Die Messung erfolgt in diesem Beispiel durch den Lichtstrahl 60 einer Lichtschranke (nicht gezeigt). Bewegt sich die Lochscheibe 12 von der in Fig. 18 dargestellten Lage in die in Fig. 19 gezeigte Lage, so gelangt die Münze 24 in den Wirkungsbereich der Riemen 120, 122 und wird am vorderen Lochrand positioniert, so wie in Fig. 19 gezeigt. Die Messung der vorlaufenden Kante der Münze 64 wird bei diesem Ausführungsbeispiel vorzugsweise elektronisch ausgelöst, da je nach konkreter Auslegung der Einrichtung, wenig bis kein Freiraum zwischen der vorlaufenden Kante des Loches 28 und der Münze 64 im Bereich des Lichtstrahls 60 vorliegt.In Fig. 18 one can see a coin 64 coming from the perforated disc 12 by rotating the same in the direction of arrow 22 to the Positioning device is brought up. The measurement takes place in this example by the light beam 60 Light barrier (not shown). The perforated disc moves 12 from the position shown in FIG. 18 to the position in FIG. 19 shown position, the coin 24 comes into the effective range the strap 120, 122 and is on the front edge of the hole positioned as shown in Fig. 19. The measurement of leading edge of the coin 64 is in this embodiment preferably triggered electronically, since each according to the specific design of the facility, little to none Clearance between the leading edge of hole 28 and the coin 64 is present in the region of the light beam 60.

Bei der Weiterbewegung der Scheibe 12 in die Lage der Fig. 20 wird der Lichtstrahl 60 durch die Münze 64 unterbrochen. Erst beim Erreichen der Lage nach Fig. 21 ist der Lichtstrahl 60 von der Münze wieder freigegeben, und zwar bis der hintere Rand des Loches 28 nach der Fig. 22 den Lichtstrahl 60 überquert hat.When the disc 12 moves further into the position of FIG. 20, the light beam 60 is interrupted by the coin 64. Only when the position according to FIG. 21 is reached is the light beam 60 of the coin released, and until the rear edge of the hole 28 according to FIG. 22 the light beam 60 has crossed.

Gemessen wird in diesem Beispiel daher entweder die Sehne der Münze an der Passage der Lochscheibe zwischen den Lagen der Fig. 19 und der Fig. 21 oder die Breite des Freiraumes entlang der kreisförmigen Bahn 80, während der Drehung der Lochscheibe zwischen den Lagen der Fig. 21 und 22 oder es werden beide Messungen durchgeführt.In this example, therefore, either the tendon is measured the coin at the passage of the perforated disc between the layers 19 and FIG. 21 or the width of the free space along the circular path 80 while the rotation of the Perforated disc between the layers of FIGS. 21 and 22 or it both measurements are carried out.

Durch die Positionierung der Münze werden somit höchstens zwei oder ggf. nur eine Messung benötigt, um eine zuverlässige Messung zu erreichen, wodurch die vom Rechner durchzuführende Arbeit begrenzt wird, dessen Programmierung einfacher wird und der Identifizierungsvorgang schneller ablaufen kann.By positioning the coin, at most two or possibly only one measurement is required to ensure a reliable To achieve measurement, whereby the to be carried out by the computer Work is limited, its programming becomes easier and the identification process faster can expire.

Schließlich zeigt die Fig. 23, daß die Münze 64 eine andere Lage 69 im Loch 28 annimmt, wenn sie den Wirkungsbereich der Riemen 120, 122 verlassen hat.Finally, Fig. 23 shows that the coin 64 is different Layer 69 in hole 28 assumes when the area of effect the belt has left 120, 122.

Es versteht sich, daß die Positioniereinrichtung der Fig. 16 bis 23 auch mit anderen Abtasteinrichtungen, beispielsweise mit einer induktiven und/oder kapazitiven Abtasteinrichtung arbeiten kann und daß auch mehrere unterschiedlich ausgebildete Abtasteinrichtungen, beispielsweise eine Lichtschranke und eine induktive bzw. kapazitive Meßeinrichtung gleichzeitig zum Einsatz gelangen können.It is understood that the positioning device of Fig. 16 to 23 also with other scanning devices, for example with an inductive and / or capacitive Scanner can work and that several differently designed scanning devices, for example a light barrier and an inductive or capacitive measuring device are used simultaneously can.

Es soll hier nochmals darauf hingewiesen werden, dass die verschiedenen in den Fig. 10-23 gezeigten Positioniereinrichtungen 100 zusammen mit den verschiedensten Abtasteinrichtungen eingesetzt werden können, d.h. z.B. auch mit einem Bildlesegerät.It should be pointed out again here that the various shown in Figs. 10-23 Positioning devices 100 together with the various scanning devices can be used can, i.e. e.g. also with an image reader.

Claims (32)

  1. Process for identifying coins, in the case of which the coins (64) are separated by a separating device which is designed as a continuously rotatable disc (12) provided with receiving compartments (28) for the individual coins (64), and the separated coins are identified by at least one measurement, which is carried out while the separated coins (64) are located in the receiving compartments (28), characterized in that a positioning device (100) subjects the coin (64) to a force which has an accelerating or decelerating effect and moves the coins (64) into such a position of the associated receiving compartment (28) that they butt against the leading or trailing border of said receiving compartment (28), and they are held in this position during the measurement.
  2. Process according to Claim 1, characterized in that the measurement is carried out by means of a light barrier (26) which exhibits an optical transmitter (48) and optical receiver (50) and of which the light beam (60) is directed onto the plane of the disc (12), in the region of the receiving compartments (28), and in that, from the signals of the optical receiver (50), conclusions are drawn as to the size and/or identity of the individual coins (64) contained in the receiving compartments (28) of the disc (12).
  3. Process according to Claim 2, characterized in that the dimension of a chord (79) of the respective coins (64) positioned in the receiving compartments (28) is measured by means of the light barrier (26).
  4. Process according to Claim 2, characterized in that the dimension of the clearance (70) between the respective border (66) of a receiving compartment (28) and the front and/or rear border (72, 74) of a coin (64) positioned in said receiving compartment (28) is determined by means of the light barrier (26).
  5. Process according to Claim 2, characterized in that the period of time during which the light beam (60) is reflected or interrupted by the coin (64) is utilized in order to identify the respective coins (64).
  6. Process according to Claim 1, characterized in that it is checked as to whether the speed of rotation of the disc (12) is essentially constant during the measurement and has the correct value and, for identifying coins, use is made only of such measurements in the case of which said criterion is fulfilled.
  7. Process according to Claim 1, characterized in that the measurement is carried out as a measurement of displacement, use being made of a displacement-measuring device (52) which is coupled directly or indirectly to the disc (12).
  8. Process according to Claim 2, characterized in that measuring-time windows are defined, during which the receiving compartments (28) of the disc (12) move through the light beam (60), and in that only measuring signals which are generated during this measuring-time window are evaluated.
  9. Process according to Claim 2, characterized in that the beginning and/or the end of the measurement is established by a signal which is not generated by the light barrier (26) and marks the perforation border (66) or a reference point adjacent to this.
  10. Process according to Claim 1, characterized in that in order to stabilize the position of the coins in the receiving compartments (28) of the disc (12), use is made of a perforation shape which is other than circular, preferably a perforation shape having two straight sides (90, 92) which converge in the direction of rotation (22) of the disc (12) or counter to this.
  11. Process according to Claim 1, characterized in that, upon suspicion of an unacceptable coin and/or in the event of a dubious measuring result, the appropriate coin (64) is guided back into a coin hopper (10) which feeds the disc (12).
  12. Process according to Claim 1, characterized in that it is only upon detection of a plurality of unacceptable coins one after the other that the reliability of the detection is accepted and the unacceptable coins are separated out.
  13. Process according to Claim 1, characterized in that, after identification, the coins (64) are fed to a coin-sorting section (34 to 42) and are sorted as a result of the measurements.
  14. Process according to Claim 1, characterized in that the overall value of the identified coins is determined as a result of the measurements carried out.
  15. Process according to Claim 1, characterized in that, in order to identify the coins, use is made of an inductive and/or capacitive sensing device (84).
  16. Apparatus for identifying coins, having a separating device which is designed as a continuously rotatable disc (12) provided with receiving compartments (28), having a sensing device (26, 84) which is provided for measuring a property of the respective coins (64) and is arranged in the region of the path (58) which results from the rotation of the perforated disc (12) and belongs to the receiving compartments (28), and having an evaluation computer (44) which determines the size and/or identity of the respective coins (64) from the signals from the sensing device (26, 84) which result due to the presence of a coin (64) in the respective receiving compartments (28), characterized in that there is provided a positioning device (100) which has an accelerating or decelerating effect on the respective coins (64) arranged in the receiving compartments (28) of the perforated disc and moves said coins, at least in the region of the sensing device, into abutment against the leading or trailing border (66) of the associated receiving compartment (28) .
  17. Apparatus according to Claim 16, characterized in that the sensing device is a light barrier (26) which comprises an optical transmitter (48) and an optical receiver (50).
  18. Apparatus according to Claim 17, characterized in that the light beam (60) of the light barrier (26) is directed onto a location which is located radially within or outside the path (58) which is described by the geometrical centres of the receiving compartments (28) of the disc (12).
  19. Apparatus according to Claim 17, characterized in that the evaluation computer (44) and the light barrier (26) are designed for measuring along a chord (79) of a coin (64) positioned in the respective receiving compartment (28).
  20. Apparatus according to Claim 17, characterized in that the evaluation computer (44) and the light barrier (26) are designed for measuring the clearance (70) between the border (66) of the respective receiving space (28) and the front and/or rear border (72, 74) of a coin (64) located in the respective perforation.
  21. Apparatus according to Claim 16, characterized in that there is provided a displacement-measuring device (52) which, corresponding to the rotation of the disc (12), generates displacement-measuring pulses, and in that the displacement-measuring device is connected to the evaluation computer (44).
  22. Apparatus according to Claim 17, characterized in that there is provided a device (62) which defines a measuring-time window, within which the measuring signals obtained from the light barrier (26) are released for evaluation.
  23. Apparatus according to Claim 16, characterized in that there is provided a device which is connected to the evaluation computer (44) and is intended for the electronic marking of the front and/or of the rear border (66) of each individual receiving compartment (28) or of a location, of the disc (12), which is adjacent to this.
  24. Apparatus according to Claim 16, characterized in that, in order to stabilize the position of the coins (64) in the receiving compartments (28), the latter have a perforation shape which is other than circular, preferably a perforation shape having two straight sides (90, 92) which converge in the direction of rotation (22) of the disc (12) or counter to this.
  25. Apparatus according to Claim 16, characterized in that there is provided an ejecting device (32) which sends back coins (64) which have not been detected satisfactorily into a hopper (10) which feeds the disc (12).
  26. Apparatus according to Claim 16, characterized in that the sensing device is an inductive and/or capacitive sensing device (84).
  27. Apparatus according to Claim 16, characterized in that the positioning device (100) is a braking device (102; 110).
  28. Apparatus according to Claim 27, characterized in that the braking device has a stationary brush (102) which is arranged on one side of the disc (12), in the region of the movement path of the receiving compartments (28).
  29. Apparatus according to Claim 27, characterized in that the braking device has a leaf part (110) which is arranged in the region of the movement path of the receiving compartments (28), is prestressed in the direction of the disc (12) and/or the coins (64) located therein, and of which the surface directed towards the coins (64) consists preferably of plastic or is coated with plastic.
  30. Apparatus according to Claim 29, characterized in that the leaf part (110) is mounted in an articulated manner and is prestressed against the disc (12) under the compressive action of a spring (114).
  31. Apparatus according to Claim 16, characterized in that the positioning device has at least one belt (120, 122), which is arranged in the region of the rotational path of the receiving compartments (28), is made to circulate by a motor (128) and, depending on its speed of circulation in comparison with the rotational speed of the disc (12) in the region of the belt (120, 122), has a braking or accelerating effect on the coins (64) and thus positions the latter in the receiving compartments (28), in the desired position.
  32. Apparatus according to Claim 31, characterized in that the circulating belt (120, 122), in the region of one side of the disc (12), is guided around two deflection rollers (124, 126), of which at least one is suspended resiliently such that the belt (120, 122) always comes into contact with the coins (64), irrespective of the thickness of the respective coin (64).
EP94118461A 1993-12-13 1994-11-24 Method and device for identifying coins Expired - Lifetime EP0657855B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CH370393 1993-12-13
CH3703/93 1993-12-13

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EP0657855B1 true EP0657855B1 (en) 1998-02-04

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US (1) US5551542A (en)
EP (1) EP0657855B1 (en)
JP (1) JP2648664B2 (en)
AT (1) ATE163102T1 (en)
BR (1) BR9404951A (en)
CA (1) CA2137527C (en)
DE (1) DE59405229D1 (en)
DK (1) DK0657855T3 (en)
ES (1) ES2111829T3 (en)
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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FI945828A0 (en) 1994-12-12
NO944773L (en) 1995-06-14
EP0657855A1 (en) 1995-06-14
DE59405229D1 (en) 1998-03-12
ATE163102T1 (en) 1998-02-15
ES2111829T3 (en) 1998-03-16
FI945828A (en) 1995-06-14
PL306254A1 (en) 1995-06-26
CA2137527C (en) 1998-06-09
NO944773D0 (en) 1994-12-09
JP2648664B2 (en) 1997-09-03
JPH07200911A (en) 1995-08-04
CA2137527A1 (en) 1995-06-14
AU660251B1 (en) 1995-06-15
BR9404951A (en) 1995-08-08
DK0657855T3 (en) 1998-05-11
NO306487B1 (en) 1999-11-08
US5551542A (en) 1996-09-03

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