Easily programmed coin counter for vending machines - uses simple detector microswitches and program plug board which specifies goods being purchased

摘要

The easily updated or reprogrammed coin counter is for an automatic vending machine, in which the coins are counted by a simple array of microswitches and in which a new price can be specified easily using a plugboard. A number of coin magazines (27, 28, 29) are provided, each of which stacks the coins used in a particular purchase one above the others so that an array of microswitches (3) can detect the number of coins in each magazine. These are linked to a plugboard (6) which, together with switches (S1..Sn) which specify the goods being purchased, and a control network (W) checks the total coins at any time in the magazine. If this total corresponds to the required amt. the purchase can be completed and a release bar (5) allows the coins to fall from the magazines, leaving them ready for the next purchase.