US 6,206,168 B1 · Simplified coin-controlled latch unit

Abstract

A simplified, compact coin-controlled coin latch unit includes a latching arm and a deactivating arm, arranged on the same pivot. The operation of the deactivating arm, which is controlled by the opening and closing of the door latched by the latch unit, operates a magnetic switch which deactives the solenoid which controls the latching arm. The deactivating arm also controls a hinged flap which forms part of a temporary coin receptacle. When the door opens, the deactivating arm is released, deactivating the solenoid and releasing the hinged flap to permit coins to fall into a chute to a permanent coin receptacle. When the door is closed, the deactivating arm is moved to it's original point, closing the hinged flap and activating the magnetic switch to close, thereby permitting reactivation of the solenoid circuit, in response to a coin detecting device.

Claims13

Dependent claims

A door latching and coin handling mechanism activated by a coin detecting device, said door latching and coin handling mechanism comprising:

a) a temporary coin receptacle constituted by two hinged flaps arranged in a V-shaped configuration;
b) a pivoting latch arm arranged to hold said door, said latch arm being mounted on a first pivot and driven by a solenoid and,
c) deactivating means for deactivating said solenoid and controlling said temporary coin receptacle to place coins in a permanent coin holder, said deactivating means having a first deactivating arm on said first pivot.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Simplified coin-controlled latch unit

Life of this patent

Simplified coin-controlled latch unit

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims13