SA97180133B1 - Method and apparatus for coin testing - Google Patents

Abstract

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for testing a coin in which a laser beam (13) is applied to the face of a coin (4) and a laser detector (3) is used to detect if the laser beam is intercepted by The coin and where the laser beam is intercepted by the coin so that an illustration of the coin's face feature is obtained. The metal tag property is used to distinguish them. The invention also relates to a coin-testing apparatus comprising a laser source (11) to direct a beam (13) to detect whether the path of the laser beam is intercepted by the coin, and a signal-processor (14) made by obtaining an indication from the output of a laser detector (3) For the obverse feature of a coin which is used to distinguish it.,

Description

Cy METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TESTING COINS FULL DESCRIPTION BACKGROUND The present invention relates to an apparatus for testing coinage and a method for its identification. Various coin testing and evaluation systems are used for example in vending machines and telephones. Various electromechanical or electromagnetic coin appraisals are available for use in different purposes such as vending machines; private and public telephones; etc. These rating devices can be used in many types of vending machines; or slotting machines, for example at airports; or railway stations; or gaming machines; or factories; or schools; or hospitals; or hotels; or platforms at sea. These coin appraisers for vending machines and telephones are generally limited in the number of different types of coins that can be valued. A device for grading coins in which a beam of light is directed at an angle toward the edge of a coin. If the coin has the correct diameter, then part of the light beam passes in a straight line through a first scout, and part of the light beam is reflected (scattered) to a second scout that is not in line with it. The system described in Order 2.212.313 is based on the fact that some of the light received by each of the two searchlights to determine only vo whether the coin has the correct diameter is partially reflected. If the light is not received by any of the scouts; or all the light has been received by the searchlight which is in line with it; The coin does not have the required diameter. The system could use a laser diode as a possible light source. Published European patent application 0.629.979 discloses a system that ensures the supply of new linear sensor coins of correct size by using a photocurrent and a linear sensor array. General of the invention according to another version of the invention; A method for testing the coin is provided; In it, a laser ca SIC laser is directed, and a laser beam is used on the face of a coin on the face of the coin.

dm - Detector for an illustration of a coin's face dimension property; It is distinguished by the fact that the aforementioned laser detector detects if the laser beam is intercepted by the coin and where the laser beam is not intercepted by the coin. The length of at least one elongate strip of © obverse of the coin may be determined or discovered.

The lengths of at least parts of the set of strips extending from the obverse of the coin may be determined or discovered. Lad pa beam strips or parts thereof may be erased one after the other. The beam may be fan-shaped so that it strikes all or all of the said strips or

0 part of it at the same time. A laser detector can have many closely packed pixels; Each is capable of detecting laser beams. The coin may spin as it moves behind the beam. The coin may move along a guide as it moves behind the ray.

1 A coin may fall freely when it passes through the beam. One end of each said strip may be at the edge of the coin and the other end of the strip may be at a predetermined position that is not on the edge of the coin. A second laser beam can be directed at the edge of the coin and can be detected to determine a characteristic of the edge and/or thickness of the coin.

© - The dimension property of the groove and/or letter on the edge of the coin can be specified or detected. The number of alcoves and/or letters in a pre-specified distance can be counted on the edge of the coin. The second laser beam can be derived from the mentioned first laser beam. The second laser beam can be derived from said first laser beam by means of a prism that redirects part of said first laser beam.

Yo Preferably at the point of intersection of the coin and the laser beam, the latter should be mainly in the form of a thin plane of laser beams.

Z According to another embodiment of the present invention a coin test apparatus is provided comprising Cre

(d) a laser source prepared and coordinated to direct the laser beam on the surface of the coin; a laser searchlight; And a signal processor configured and coordinated to obtain an indication from the output of the laser detector of the coin face dimensions feature. The device should preferably be configured to identify or detect the lengths of at least parts of a set of strips extending from the obverse of a coin. The beam can be configured to scan the mentioned strips or parts thereof one after the other. The ray may be fan-shaped such that it strikes all of the said strips or each termination or 0 of them at the same time. It is preferable that the laser source and then the beam be stationary, and the device is configured so that the coin moves behind the beam. The device may include a guide to move the coin along its length as it moves behind the beam. The device may be configured so that the coin falls freely as it passes through the beam when in use. 1 during use; One end of each said strip may be at the edge of the coin and the other end of the strip may be at a predetermined position not on the edge of the coin. The device may include a means of aiming a second laser beam at the edge of the coin; on a means of detecting if the second laser beam was intercepted by the coin; and on a means by which the edge characteristic and/or thickness of the coin is determined. © The device may include a means to derive a second laser beam from said first laser beam. The means of deriving the second laser beam from said first laser beam may include a prism that redirects part of said first laser beam. The laser detector may contain compact pixels, each of them separately capable of detecting laser beams. vo According to a third form of the invention, a device was provided for testing the coin, which includes: a laser source prepared and coordinated to direct the laser beam on the surface of the coin;

Ceo and a laser detector configured to detect if the laser beam is intercepted by the coin and where the laser beam is not intercepted by the coin; and a coin guide configured to move the coin along a specified path so that the coin intercepts part of the passing laser beam between the laser source and the laser detector; a signal processor configured and coordinated to obtain output from the laser detector© and where a proportion of the intercepted laser beam provides at least one measure of the geometric dimension of the coin; A coin can be identified by comparing the mentioned measurement of the coin with the corresponding measurements of a number of known coins. At least one measurement can be made of the geometric dimension of the face of said coin and another measurement can be made of the thickness of said coin in order to compare Measurements and thicknesses of said coin 0 with corresponding measurements of a number of known coins mentioned. A range of geometric dimensions can be repeatedly measured to provide an integral area measurement of the surface range of said coin; The said coin can be identified by comparing the said area measure of the said coin with the mentioned area measurements of a number of known mentioned coins. Vo and/or the letter grooves on the edge of the coin can be determined or detected characteristic of the bore dimensions. The number of recesses and/or letters may be counted at a predetermined distance on the edge of the coin. The measurement of the geometric dimension of said coin and the corresponding measurements of a number of known known coins may relate to measurements of coins smaller than their diameter or In the case of © coins with irregular shapes, they are smaller than the maximum cross-sectional area of each corresponding coin. The laser beam passing between said laser source and said laser detector can move between them by an indirect circular path. The laser beam can be directed along the mentioned indirect circular path by means of one mirror or one or more prisms.

- +

The path may include a corridor with a lower boundary along which the coin is capable of

Movement through the device while being carried continuously at its circumferential edge by the lower boundary

aforementioned for the aforementioned aisle.

The laser source can be installed so that the laser beam is directed from one side to the AY side m0 of a portion of the said passage and is mainly perpendicular to the main plane of the coin

the mineral mentioned in the aforementioned corridor; And so that it is intercepted by the upper bands of the currency

The aforementioned mineral during its movement through the aforementioned part of the aforementioned corridor.

A laser detector can include a linear array of many pixels lined up side by side;

And each of them alone is able to detect laser beams.

0 The array may extend mainly parallel to said plane and extend transversely with respect to the direction of movement of said coin along said part of the corridor and may have a lower end set a first distance from said lower cut-off; This first distance is less than the minimum diameter of the said number of coins; It has an upper end that is a second away from the said lower boundary; This second distance is greater than the maximum diameter of the number

1 _ The mentioned coins; And said laser detector can operate to produce an output that depends on the number of said pixels blocking said laser beam; At a set of successive sampling moments by the coin moving along said portion of the corridor so that said output can be compared with pre-selected reference data records to determine if those records correspond to said output.

© The coin can move along said path such that the coin at the point of intersection is absolutely perpendicular to said laser beam. The laser beam intercepted by said coin should preferably be at the point of intersection; Mainly on a thin plane image of laser beams. According to a fourth form of the invention; A device for testing the coin is provided which includes:

vo guide to the coin defining a path with a low cutout" along which the coin can move through the device while being carried continuously at its circumferential edge by said drop cutout; Flee

Cv and a laser source installed such that the laser beam is directed from one side to the other side of a portion of said lane and is mainly perpendicular to the principal plane of said coin in said lane; And so that it is intercepted by the upper bands of the mentioned coin while it is moving through the mentioned part of the aforementioned corridor; and a laser searchlight that includes; At the aforementioned other side of the corridor is a linear array of eo laser receiver positions; The array extends mainly parallel to the said plane and extends transversely with respect to the direction of movement of the said coin along the said part of the corridor and may have a lower end which is a first distance away from the said low boundary; and this first distance shall be less than an upper end a second distance from Lely the minimum diameter of said number of coins; This second distance is greater than the maximum diameter of the said yy number of coins; And the mentioned laser detector can work to produce an output that depends on the number of said pixels that obstruct the said laser beam; At a set of successive add) sampling moments by the coin moving along the said part of the so that said output can be compared with the previously defined reference data records to determine if those records correspond to said output. The device includes one or more laser sources and more than one laser detector. According to a fifth form of the invention, a method was provided for identifying a coin, which includes steps: moving the coin along a specific path so that it intercepts the coin ( 1) said portion of the laser beam passing between the source of the laser beams and the laser detector; said coin with the corresponding measurement of a number of Aja (VY) coins known in order to identify said coin. At least one measurement of the geometric dimension can be made on the face of said coin; Ye also the method may include an identification step Measurement of the thickness of the mentioned coin in order to compare: the measurements mentioned with the corresponding measurements of a number of the mentioned coins.

Cao The method involves the step of determining a measurement for a number of geometric dimensions of the coin Load may include the aforementioned to provide a measurement of an integral area of the surface range of the said coin; Said coin can be identified by comparing the said area measurement of said coin with the corresponding area measurements of a number of said known coins. The edge of the coin. The stroke may also include stepping the number of cavities and/or letters at a distance specified by the laser on said coin. In this description and accompanying claims the terms "laser source" shall be deemed to include On any means or combination of means that fulfills the “laser detector” and “laser detector” source 0 oll the function of providing a source of laser radiation and its intensification, respectively. The laser source and detector may be a single component; or part of a component; Or a group of parts provided that each of them fulfills the function of enabling the invention to operate in accordance with the claims. Preferred features of the invention will also appear clear from the accompanying claims and the content of those claims is included in this specification. 10 Explanation A summary of the drawings The first model: In order to understand the invention in a more comprehensive way, it will only be for example and describe the models of the invention with reference to the attached drawings, in which: A cross section of a side projection of a first model of a coin test device; 1) Ll ( Figure (1a) shows the positions of the components of the first model relative to each other; Figure (1b) shows a cross-section in the profile of a housing used in the model shown in without internal components for the sake of clarity; 1) (Fig. 1b; Fig. (1c) shows a lateral projection of the housing shown in Fig. (3) a view of the housing shown in Fig. (ab); The coin; (1) shows a figure

A figure shows the positions of the components of the second model of the coin tester shown in (IY) in relation to each other; 7) and (iv) (<¥) for the second model shown in Figures (7) and (17) and HAT shows Figure (7c) projected © so that the coin appears rolling from right to left across the outline; Figure (?d) shows the coin guide shown in Figure (17) compounded in an oblique manner; Figure (7e) shows an arrangement for measuring the thickness of the coin; FY) shows a triangular shape used in other models; 0 The figure (£) shows a third model in which the coin intercepts the laser beam when it is free falling and an arrow is used to show the direction of the coin’s fall; Figures (0) and (i) diagrams of alternative embodiments that illustrate the invention and may include laser sources and laser searchlights not placed perpendicular to the main plane of the coin; and (i) a laser unit used in the first embodiment shown in fig. V) shows the shape of the laser at the focus; It also shows that the gle shows the shape of (lap) the laser projection formed by the Boolean lenses in the form of a plane or a line of laser beams; (1) multiple projections of a sensor unit used in the models shown in the figures (A) shows Figure © (1); and Figure (4) shows an electrical box diagram of the internal parts of the sensor unit shown in fA) Figure (19) a timing setting diagram of a linear array, connected in parallel, and shows the pulses ( 1) and (A) related to the sensor unit shown in Figures vo a circuit diagram used in the first generation of electronics used in Model (01) Figure (1); shown in Figure (1)

YYYA

- 1. A box diagram of a clock signal generation circuit used in the models shown in Figures (Vr) Figure (1) and (0) Figure (10b) shows the power delivery circuit; a circuit diagram of the laser power source; (11) Figure 0 and (7) show the protruding connecting pins of the sensor matrix 7 - 7 in the device shown in (NY) Figure 0 and (7); (1) Figures Figure (11b) a diagram explaining the pixel model; Figure (11c) shows converters with three levels of conversion from analog to digital; Two circuits for pauses; (VY) Figure (11b) shows a box diagram of two circuits for two interfaces for two intermediate memories. Figure (11c) a box diagram of the main control circuit used in the models shown (mag and (7); ) 1 (in figures

RAM two static memory circuits (DY) showing Fig. 1 (EEPROM flash memory circuit (a) Y) showing Fig. 1, relays and phototransistor driver; LCD driver (5) Y) showing Fig. (PIN and photosensor PIN actuator (5) Y) shows the layout of printed circuit boards used in model circuits; (BVT) shows the figures (11h) and draws the function of the algorithm used to perform oY - 7 A curve illustrated on the coordinates (VF) Fig. © calculations in the model of the invention; Components of the invention models for the electrical components. (1) Figure The drawings are provided for the purpose of illustration only and therefore it is not necessary to draw them according to a drawing scale.

11 - In the models, similar components are numbered with the same numbers for clarity. Then, for example, numbering the sources of laser beams in each model with the same reference number, but this does not mean that the models Detailed description (oo) Referring to Figure (1) a first model of the invention was illustrated in the form of a device for testing the coin (Yr) that includes Equipment (01) On a housing (0) a laser unit is mounted in the form of a cylindrical button unit (1) that slides into a cylindrical groove. (21) In the housing (*). The laser unit (1) is included ) on a conventional laser diode (11) and two sets of lenses (0 for each of the two sets is indicated by the number 11). The laser diode (11) produces a laser beam (VF) (shown are shown by the dashed lines in Figure (1). The lens assemblies (1) are designed so that the laser beam (VF) is deflected fan-shaped when it leaves the front of the laser unit (1). The laser beam exits the laser diode. (11) as a point-shaped source; it is fan-shaped spread by the lens assembly (VY) so that the beam can be used to hit the large vo parts of the coin at the same time. The laser beam propagates (1) In the form of a fan.In order to make this laser beam spread flat, two sets of lenses with different characteristics are used. The first set of lenses (VY) collates the Alle laser beam so that it has a rectangular cross-section. Another set of cylindrical (VY) lenses causes the cross-section of the laser beam to stretch so that the cross-section becomes a rectangle, elongated almost to a line. The VY laser beam from the VY laser diode passes through these lenses. The fan-shaped laser pled is focused using the lenses (VY) in the laser unit (1); and by adjusting the position of the laser unit (1) by sliding it into the groove (51). Coin test (01) on a coin guide that has a (VY) vo channel with a bottom boundary (TY) and an upper pass (OF) in which the coin (f) is inserted Channel (11) directs the coin (;) along the lane.

A coin (57) crossed through the stay (2). The coin (£) is carried continuously at its circumferential edge by the lower spacer (17) of the coin guide. The coin (;) moves through the device in a direction perpendicular to the plane shown in Figure (1). (TV) remote from the laser source; the housing (0) contains a © laser detector in the form of a sensor matrix unit (7). The matrix unit (3) comprises accumulators with charges Ale velocity and separate and side-by-side pixels Side [not shown separately]. These charge accumulators contain laser-sensitive pixels that are capable of detecting and measuring laser energy levels. The pixels are arranged in a linear array, in the form of a line or a grid, to form a contiguous array of pixels. Each accumulator is a charge in Uncharged state 0 Able to become charged when a laser beam (VF) shines on a given pixel Pixels are sensitive enough to detect photons and are the basic component of the laser beam The sensor matrix module (©) has pins Connection (19) is configured to connect the sensor array module (©) to the electronic circuit mentioned below. The laser beam (VF) generated by the laser diode (11) is directed in the direction of the sensor array module (©). In the model shown in Figure (1), after the laser beam exits the laser diode (11), the laser beam (VY) is directed to become a flat beam in the form of a fan, and when referring to the fan shape, this indicates Diffusion of the laser beam to form a thin line or linear plane of laser beams The plane of this fan-like beam is generally oriented towards the center of the linear array © The laser pled (VF) moves between the laser diode (11) and linear array of sensors ( ). The laser beam (VF) is directed axially along the groove (51) and through the path (OY) The axis of this laser beam (VF) is mainly vertical On the main plane of the coin in the lane The laser beam (VF) is directed at the face of a coin (£) to be tested. The coin (;) intercepts part of the laser beam (VF) This and that Yo passes between the laser diode (11) and the sensor matrix module (©). In the current model the beam is stationary and the coin moves behind the laser beam. The circular coin rotates

Su when it moves behind the beam, while the non-circular or polygonal coin slides behind the beam. The sensor array (©) is able to detect where the laser beam is intercepted by the coin and where the coin does not intercept the laser beam since all pixels that are exposed o to the laser beam will cause charge accumulators to charge; While those pixels blocked by the coin will not cause charge accumulators to charge. Information about charged and uncharged accumulators is used to obtain an explanation of the coin's obverse property; As will be mentioned later. Referring to Figure (1), pixels and charge accumulators operate on the basis of their saturation by measuring the measurable maximum and minimum quantum energy of the laser beam. When a pixel is excited to a level near 0 midpoint of its maximum charge saturation, the pixel control logic is able to quantify minute of energy received by the pixel of the laser beam. The control logic can then determine whether the charge accumulator can be considered as “0” for the uncharged state or “1” for the charged state. In the form ALL the linear sensor matrix module spans (©) mainly parallel to the main vo plane of the coin (;) in the corridor (57); transverse to the direction of movement of the coin along the corridor. In Figure (1) the lower end of the matrix (©) departs by a first distance ( d) from the lower separator (17); this first distance (d) is less than the lowest diameter of whatever coin the device is used for. The upper end of the array (©) is a second (0) away from the lower separator ( TY) This second distance (D) is greater than the maximum diameter of any coins.So the laser beam (VF) will be intercepted by the coin's upper bands (;) as it moves along the lane. It is preferable to allow the upper bands of the coin (?) to be intercepted by a laser beam (VF) so that measurements of the upper bands of the coin can be taken. Alternatively, measurements may be taken of other areas of the coin (£) such as the side parts. However, when the vo coin comes into contact with the lower bound (TY) of the coin guide this contact makes it difficult to obtain accurate measurements of these parts of the coin in contact with the lower bound (1) YY YA

and 41 - there is no need to take measurements of the coin for the full diameter. or maximum cross sectional area in the case of irregular coins and by avoiding readings of diameter or maximum cross sectional area; Minimize the problems associated with measuring the portion of the coin in contact with the rolling surface.

The linear matrix (©) of the sensor module produces an electrical output at 3a moments corresponding successive samples depending on the number of pixels that are blocked by the coin and the number of pixels that are not. It is preferable to sample this signal many times as the coin moves behind the linear array (1) as will be discussed in more detail Lad after. The linear matrix (©) sensor module is connected to a signal processor that processes the outputs

0 This is to identify the coin in question. The signal processor is in the form of a microcontroller (1), which is shown in Figures 71c and (VE). The Gad controller (VE) includes a comparator to determine which of the sets of reference data registers is defined by Analyze the processed output, if any. For example, the processed output of the linear matrix (3) is compared with the data records of a large number of known coins.

_ Identify a coin (£) by matching the output of the processed output obtained from the linear sensor with the corresponding data register of a known coin. The housing (0) is made of ale that gives good absorption of scattered laser beams such as polycarbonate. The outer appearance of the housing (*) is shown in figures (a) and (1d). Other designs may be selected depending on the specific media in which it is to be installed.

© to the invention; Moreover Yad from installing a coin tester in its housing; The various components of a coin tester can be made integral as part of the medium in which it is to be used such as a vending machine or telephone. in these models; A coin guide is provided as part of the components of the respective medium. It is conceivable that the coin proof may not be a recognizable Sia ite component. in these models; Any feature of the entire medium can be considered to direct the currency

Yo coin to be intercepted by the laser beam as fulfilling the coin guide function.

- 1 and

In other embodiments, the various structural components of a coin tester can be molded into

one piece. Mirrors and prisms can for example be cast from the same material as the housing and coin guide

mineral. The advantage of molding as a manufacturing method will be used to reduce the cost of the machine.

Figure (V) shows an alternative model for creating Cle sana lenses and producing the desired beam shape

© Laser (VF) by using a collecting (VO) lens and a line-generating lens (VY) passing through it

Laser beam from a laser diode. The fan-shaped beam is focused

By using a second series of lenses (VY) in the laser unit (1); and by adjusting the position

the coaxial part of the laser unit (1) into the groove (01). By rotating the rear assembly

The front (VF) beam is focused and assembled as shown in Figure (7). A locking ring (VE) is used for fixing in the final position. The lens assembly can be rotated using a wrench

Rotate it with the laser diode unit to produce the best line-of-fall (VF) laser beams on

Line Array L(Y) The larger the operating distance, the longer and thicker the line.

The second form:

A second embodiment of the invention is illustrated in Figures (Y), (17) and (7b). This embodiment is similar to the first embodiment vo except that the laser detector includes two linear arrays YY

2 (For the sake of clarity of concept in this application, # and 7 refer to the terms of the 5X Y axes

orthogonal used in engineering).

A VF laser beam is emitted from a laser diode (11) and refracted by the lenses

(VY) The laser beam is focused into a line using "Boole lenses". The laser beam lines are focused by Boolean lenses, which have the unique property of uniformity of intensity along the length of the line. It was completed

Illustration of the diffuse effect of the laser beam (VF) in Figures (7) 5 (IV) using Boolean lenses.

(VY) to expand the angle of the laser beam. (VF) Figure (GV) an overhead projection of the laser beam shown in

Shape (IV), which is formed by Paul's lenses in the form of a thin plane of laser beams.

With the passage of time the laser beam reaches its point of intersection with the coin (;); The vo laser (VF) beam is directed along a path mainly perpendicular to the principal plane of the coin

(?). Part of the laser beam is directed at the edge of the coin (;) and is intercepted by

The circumscribed character or edge of a coin (;). It hits the rest of the laser beam

11 - - In the linear matrix YY, the linear matrix YY is thus able to determine the edge and/or thickness property of the coin (;). Figure Lula Use (a) shows the coil (;) rolling behind the linear arrays YY and ZY at the same time part of the laser glad (VF) is redirected by the prism (11c). Yar mirrors can be used from saws. Prisms (71c) reorient the beam perpendicularly so that it is directed to hit the edge of the coin. Only part of the downward-facing beam hits the other linear matrix (YY) and so two linear arrays are used to measure different parts of the surface and edge of the coin (4). There is the advantage that the beam which is absolutely perpendicular or mainly perpendicular to at least 0 on the main plane of the coin (£) or that at the critical point of intersection of the coin with the beam ; consequently shines directly on the linear sensor without any other deviation.So the measurement taken at the linear sensor will be an exact measurement of the actual coin.In contrast, in Figure (4) if the laser beam intercepts the coin at an angle of Gala then 1_the measurement taken at the linear sensor The SUB will be greater than the dimensions of the bail of the coin. However, the coin tester can still work effectively provided that measurements of known coin data are calculated with this factor in mind. Hence, it is preferable, although not essential to the invention in its broadest form, that the beam be absolutely perpendicular to the plane of the coin at the critical point of interception. However, one advantage of orthogonal to the coin and the laser beam at the point of interception is that the use of a vertical beam makes it possible to take into account deviations from the recesses in the edge of the coin. It may be taken into consideration that 13 the beam intercepted the edge of the coin at an acute angle mainly because it would hide the ripples of the cavities. Only an acutely angled or angled beam will be surrounded by a smooth contour JA of grooves or letters. vo in the second embodiment shown as oY) the first laser beam is directed at the obverse of the coin; In addition to directing a second laser beam at its edge; Both of them are derived from the same beam emitted by a single laser diode (11). The second laser beam is derived from

- 1 from the first laser beam by means of a prism that redirects part of the first laser beam. However, in a separate laser by means of a laser beam laser source of the invention a separate model AT can be created. Multiple laser diodes can be used. source It is preferable to install a coin guide in the device so that it is tilted when in use. This oblique shape of the coin guide is illustrated in Figure (1d). The degree of tilt of the coin guide reduces the risk of the coin wobbling as it moves along the coin guide. There will be a risk of wobble when the coin is vertical as it moves along the guide of the coin. The instrument's ability to recognize dimensions on the order of many microns means that any slight alignment of the coin in the coin guide will affect the accuracy of the instrument.!One way to ensure stability is to stop the coin before it passes the linear array; and then releasing it to allow it to advance behind the 0 linear matrix. Third Prototype - Free-Falling Prototypes The invention may include models where coins do not need to be carried continuously by a coin guide and can for example be The coin guide comes into contact with the laser coin. At the moment pled the coin just up to the point where the coin intercepts vo free. It is preferable to cut the coin Un sin Intercepting the laser beam The coin may actually fall in losing its original shape as it falls through the void Tas the coin transversely the laser beam before it is free. Measurements can be taken while in free fall at any point on the surface or edge of the coin. Compared to non-laser systems, coin measurements can be made with lasers that make this fast enough that measurements of the coin can be taken while it is falling x . Free fall. Alla Figure (;) illustrates a third model in which the coin intercepts the laser beam when it is in a dish linear sensor array (7). In this model a long linear sensor is used. By measuring the full area and diameter when the coin is dropped linear sensor (Jad sensor) The lenses in this third model are chosen to provide a field in the form of a wide (VF) fan behind the Yo sensor array. The cross angle of the laser beam is shared with the linear sensor Long so that measurements of the coin can be taken over a longer distance than the path of the coin.This is particularly useful

1 - - Special as a free-falling coin moves faster than a coin rolling across the coin guide. The laser beam (VF) strikes the top edge of the coin at an acute angle. Measurements are taken relative to the front side of the coin. As mentioned before the magnitude of the angle means that the measurement must take into account beam spread 0 Alternative embodiments: The invention is not limited to having a laser source and laser pointer perpendicular to the main plane of the coin. In the alternative embodiments shown in figures (*) and (1), mirrors and/or prisms (VY) are used to redirect the laser beam (1"). In these alternative formats, the VF laser plat is still ) is able to cut across the plane of the coin in a vertical fashion In certain models, optical fibers can be used to send laser beams in the direction of the laser beam optical fibers can be used to direct laser beams along paths, which requires complex arrays of lenses and/or saws Optional use of mirrors, prisms, and/or optical fibers to redirect the laser beam may result in compact designs from the yo coin tester Laser types: Jie laser source Laser diode Lele for this Jha coin tester because a laser is an inherent and highly directive source.Any source of light and beams other than a laser is considered non-intrinsic.Lan, The unique properties of lasers are from a process known as .emission of radiation as a result of excitation; While ordinary light arises from self-emission, lasers are from the emission by excitation of a specific beam of photons and atoms in a single quantum state. Lasers are particularly suitable because of the long operating lives of these sources (current typical values for lifetimes for laser sources range from 0,0001 to Aver hours; 1-4 years. Other estimates eal laser diodes are approximately 50,001 hours ). An apparatus of an embodiment of the invention may employ a range of laser diode systems designed for original equipment manufacturer (OEM) use having output capacities set in accordance with BS (EN) 5. When incorporated in the aforementioned apparatus; It may be necessary to add YYYA security features

- 1 and

additional so that we can ensure that the equipment is fully in line with the specification. Except that the invention in introduce

An image is not strictly limited to having these security features.

The output area of the laser beam from the laser diode is (11) in the form tend).

of the invention *,7 mm X 1 mm (H X W); The extended area is when access to

The linear matrix (?) is Yon mm cae), YX

The laser unit operates with a positive voltage that is supplied from a non-uniform power source and ranges from © Ts

volts. However, it is preferable to use less effort, as generating a small amount of heat leads to prolongation

The expected life of the stomach. In these conditions the supply voltage of 0.£V is regulated; shown

In Figure (11); between + go to be used to supply power to the laser unit. It is preferable to isolate the cover of the laser unit from the voltage supply.

The working embodiment of the invention uses a laser diode (11) that produces laser beams of a certain wavelength

It ranges between ± 846 nm and 846 nm depending on the standard response of the sensor unit

L(Y) The wavelength of the laser beams is chosen to maximize the response of the sensor unit so that the performance of the laser beam is increased

device. However, the invention is not limited to the use of a specific wavelength of laser beams. The wavelength used for the laser source may range between 10 nanometers and 1 nanometers

Which covers the near-ultraviolet spectral range to the near-ultraviolet spectral range

infrared.

The TTL disable function is available on lasers that operate from a negative voltage supply.

An input jump of between +4 and +V to the TTL disable module will close the laser module© and a voltage of 0V will open it. If not used, this income may be left floating.

The laser unit may be pulsed on and off using this input at a frequency of 10.01

hertz or more. However, continuous power supply to the laser diode is preferred in the practical model

Cua (Sl) indicates that this increases the jee diode.

When operating the laser unit in the aforementioned working model at a voltage higher than the lowest supply voltage; When ve is 50°C higher than the ambient temperature, a heat sink must be used. if

If the laser diode temperature is exceeded the maximum specified in the specification, breakdown can occur

premature or complete collapse. to help drain heat from the laser production unit; It would be preferable

Cov. The beam of the laser unit (1) is a cylindrical casing to contain the laser diode and lenses to focus the beam. It is made of (Polymethylmethacrylate) materials (PMMA), but the casing is made of (1) other shapes such as PMMA. Aluminum. Linear Sensor Array:

The lasers used in the illustrations are L(V) linear sensor array modules in Figure (A) A sensor array module (7) can be provided by a CMOS integrated sensor process product with a clamp as shown in the figures (A) and (3) This sensor includes a linear array (AV) having 1 X YO sensors pixel JS sensor array) of which 1.5 X 00 µm with a spacing of 8.5 µm meters between pixels). Each produces a signal dependent on a quantity

0 Laser beams received by the respective pixel. However, other embodiments of the invention may usefully include linear arrays with a larger number of pixel sensors. For example, a greater number of pixel sensors will enable a greater amount of information to be derived during the coin-measuring process. As a result, increasing the amount of information will enhance the accuracy of the measurements; Especially in those models that need integration or collection of measurements; As it will be mentioned later.

ve will estimate that the smaller and denser the pixels, the more accurate the coin recognition results will be. The matrix consists of two parallel matrixes of 18 pixels each; Such as those shown in Figure (3). Each of the 128 pixels is controlled by an 18-bit shift register containing shift control logic; charge accumulators; and an output amplifier that modulates the data stream coming out of the pixels.

© The outputs from the discrete pixels selected for each sampling interval are transmitted by a pulse input 51 as shown Lad dimension from the connecting pins (4) and (AO2 5 AOL) (A) of the sensor module (7) as current of digital pulses. As shown in Figure (9), the sensor matrix module (3) has a clock input “CLK” and an external trigger pulse input 511 and 512; and outputs 01M (A025 pixels (VYA-1) (YO - 174 pixels) can substitute

ve so that the matrices be connected in series. In figure (A) the matrix (AM) consisting of a YOU sensor provides the energy of laser beams that impinge on a pixel generating electron-hole pairs in the band below the pixel. Causes the field generated by

‎YYYA

-vy-

Effect on pixels Electrons collect in the element while holes are displaced to the substrate. The amount of charge accumulated in each element is directly proportional to the amount of incident laser beams

and sampling period. The use of laser beams is an important feature of the invention. Early devices that did not use the Gaal 0 laser did not achieve the full benefits of the present invention. The pixel dimensions are 63.5 x 00 µm with an interval of A µm center to centre. Each pixel is 8.5 micrometers apart. Because of the use of laser beams, the system is able to detect the change in the dimensions of the coin in steps ranging from + 1 pixel, or about 76.5 micrometers. This is because lasers have only one wavelength; And it has minimal scattering of the laser beam compared to the scattering of light which

0 is associated with visible light. This property enables the laser beams to distinguish small differences in the dimensions of the coins. The wavelength of the laser beam source used in the present invention is 1/1 - 3 nanometers, although it is considered that the invention is not limited to a particular wavelength of laser beams. As a result differences between coins up to a resolution of 1 pixel i.e. 7.5 μm 00+ mm can be determined using the apparatus of the present invention.

1. It is fortunate that in cases where the difference in the diameter of the different coins in circulation is only 1 pixel, these coins also differ mainly in the measurements related to their thickness. for example; The US and Canadian 1 cent coins have essentially the same diameter but also each differs in thickness by approximately 061 micrometers or 1.16 mm. So even though the diameters of the American and Canadian coins are within 1

Yo pixels can be distinguished by differences in their thickness. Therefore, in addition to taking measurements from the face of a coin, it is preferable for Lind to take measurements of the thickness of the coin. However, testing of coins may rely on a one-dimensional measurement when a limited number of coins is to be accepted and the differences between that number of coins are large. As shown in Figure (19), the operation of the YOU 7 Matrix 1 sensor is characterized by two time periods;

vo is a full period, y (the said sampling period) during which the charge is generated in the pixels by this

Effect and output period, ty, during which a stream of digital output signals is transmitted for a period of time

One sample of joint outputs 201 and LAO2 The period of integration is determined by the period as

The time tine between two consecutive ST control pulses that are directed at the conduction pin (1) (511) and the conduction pin (01) (512) of the unit (7) The required length of the integration period depends on the amount of incident laser beams and the desired output signal level.In the model, the sensor consists of YOU pixels arranged to form a linear matrix.When the energy of the laser beams hits each pixel, an optical current is generated.This current is then integrated by an active integration circuit associated with that pixel.During the integration period, the A sampling capacitor is connected that outputs the integrator through an analog switch. The amount of charge accumulated at each pixel is directly proportional to the laser power on that pixel and the integration time 1. In Figure (11); the output and reset of the integrator circuits are controlled by a shift register of the 7?bit and a reset logic. An output cycle is initiated by setting the timing in logic (1) on 511 (pin 7) and on 512 (pin 01). Another signal called HOLD is generated from the edge Notables for 511 and 5812 are sent simultaneously to Sections (1) 00 and (Y) This causes the 256 sampler capacitors to disconnect from their corresponding integrating circuits and initiate the integrating circuit reset period. When the timing of the ST pulse is set through the shift register; The charge stored on the sampling capacitors is then connected to a charge-coupled output amplifier alg voltage on the analog outputs 0m. The reset period of the VA integrator terminates a timing cycle after the ST pulse in it has been timed. Then the next period of integration begins. ys on the leading edge of the 178th clock is terminating the reliability of pulse 511 on connecting pin 501 No. (VY) (section 1). The leading edge of the 194th clock cycle terminates pulse 501; and returns the analog outputs 01m of section (1) to the high impedance state. dl terminates timing 502 on the +207 clock pulse. It takes a clock pulse yo to terminate pulse 2 and return 02m to the high impedance state. AO by source trace module that Yo needs an external stepping resistor.When not in phase outputs it is in high impedance state.Outputs are typically 0 volts at no power input and 1 volts at nominal outputs full range.

vy contains a number of laser detector matrix units In other models the linear sensor laser detector may have a matrix form. The benefit of using this sensor array is that the laser sensor is provided with a larger surface area.

oo first generation electronics

The timing set signal CLK and the control signal ST may be produced by any suitable timing circuit; Jie those shown in Figure (01) in which a circuit of 000 timers (V0) produces the timing signal “CLK” while the counter 7418590 consisting of A bits and the Schmitt starter produces 1 Indicated by circuit (Y) +3, the control signal.

0 The Sensor Matrix Module (YF) transmits a digital output pulse stream; For example; to the de circuit shown in Figure (01) which comprises a series of ¥ counters of 160 7415 bits connected Lea to form one 17-bit dae (37). This counter (17) receives a signal of the AND circuit (41) and this circuit consists of the time dasa signal CLK and the digital output signal connected in series to the sensor unit (©). At the output of each charge accumulator signal; which has

1 The value '1' or 'zero' by the pixels in the sensor matrix module (©) is timed at the counter input by the timing signal (CLK) causing the charge accumulator signal to equal '0' Increment counter When all the YOUu bits related to the sensor pixels of the YOU in the sensor matrix unit (TY) are transmitted by the sensor module (©); Tag signal 502 from the sensor matrix

© (©) Run a set of latches (AY) 7411373 so that the count result of Yoru pixels is displayed on its outputs. These outputs are then encoded by the 17-bit screen actuators 741548 indicated by the reference number (14) in the drawing to produce a number of “numbers corresponding to the exact area examined of the respective coin.” Lad The output leads from the sensor matrix module (©) are used as inputs to a circuit

> -_Master Control Comparator (fig. ?1) which compares the outputs against predefined reference values stored in the data library (V1) and corresponding to a number of coins target to be tagged by the device. ra

The data set is in the form of RAM and flash. The comparator circuit 956 is illustrated as “EEPROM” in Fig. 14. The comparator circuit provides an SC output signal defining the currency under test. Second Generation Electronics 0 The following is a description of the second generation of electronics used in embodiments of the invention; which It was completed

Obtained through additional research and development. sensor system Y with reference to Fig. d; The said sensor measures an area; the radius and diameter of the coin; indirectly. This device can detect the presence of cavities and ridges

By the edge of the coin and counted. The LEA sensor system consists of two smaller YL 5 YH systems each consisting of 178 image elements. The design of said image points is graphically illustrated in Figure 11b. During each scan; The electronics generate the number 7, which is defined as follows: if (number of clear image elements) - yellow; Let =Y be yellow, otherwise 5-(number of clear picture elements)-1

ve Operating at a dae frequency of ¥MHz, the sensor can produce all image elements (VY YA) of each array in 64.5 nanoseconds. on it; The maximum possible scan rate is 1.07 scans per second; or; One million "zero" or "1" digits per second. If Adee passes through the system at 1ms; Every 1 mm is erased about 11 times. This is sufficient to determine the lowest value of 7 when the coin passes through the system. The lowest value of 7 corresponds to the diameter of the coin. during

© each fag scan VS pulse generated by 0204) transfer cycle at each pixel in either YH or YH. 10301 starts counting the number of pixels 'high' in either YH or YL Exposed image elements aad (Dll) will display 'high' output values; coin-coated or unlaser image elements will produce 'low' output values. When the first 'low' image element is encountered, 11301 stops counting.

vo If the coin covers beyond the array Mim (YH) the first image element of YH is "low". The value of 57 is less than AYA, meaning =VY is zero. 11301 counts the "high" pixel In YL system only.

“vo” is “high.” YH is the first image element of YH if the coin does not cover beyond the hierarchy.

A=VY Therefore; If 7 is greater than 17, YE will display all image elements for ONLY. at the end of the transfer cycle; YH 17301 will count the 'superscript' elements of the dae array by 11205 as a value of 7 and later read by VY The count value is set to both 11301 and m program/or microcontroller. Via replay pulses Increasing the power? The first Y of the sensor system 15 A pulse is generated to start the first transfer cycle. At the end of the first transfer cycle, the YPUR 5 system generates 11 in this way; the sensor 15. is used to regenerate a pulse SO Sensor Pulse Scans and transfers data infinitely at the maximum possible rate. 7 Sensor Array 0 Live. First half Aled is used This sensor Array only measures your denomination of the coin. ZL)

ZL e « window aperture 7 allows a certain number of image elements of System 1 to refer to the figure by exposure to the laser. when a coin passes through the window; The number of pixels that are center-to-center (ALG) obscured by the coin is directly proportional to the actual vo of the coin. Sled between pixels; Sensor system 7 can be calculated to operate in parallel with sensor system 7; and participate in

NS same timing as ¥ MHz; and the "high" pulse of the dae elements in the dae system (as opposed to 1301); 11302 simply after the count value of 11302 is set to 11206 as 2; It is read later (Jill) at the end of the ZL vo .17101 cycle by the microcontroller; Hz. From the lage distributor the 11101 speedometer distributor generates a frequency of 01 in Fig.

Ga/0102); To divide the frequency in half “Dg sll” a volatile circuit of cde pull counter is used to provide a Schmitt electronics timing of ¥ MHz. The volatile circuit is used in conjunction with the Zend microcircuit used in the device.

No. In Figure 10b a circuit is shown that resets the instruction from the 'power off' state to the 'power on' state. The reset instruction circuit includes 4781,574 two; A switch and a number of Schmitt triggers. Figure 11 shows a power source for a laser with a current driver. Current Jide is used to protect against 0 changes in operating current; Which may lead to a breakdown of the diode as a result. Referring to figure YY the analog signals from the linear system are transferred to the VY level converter as shown in Figure 11c. In Figures VE gz) the VY plane converter converts the analog signals into a scalar form. Jou fi The numerical indications of the counter are in the form 07 (1..22710m0204.)2. The counter counts the elements of “0” image in the active state “-” and the elements of the image in non-activity “Alla”. dive The digit count is processed by the two slides (74ALS374) 5 < U205 11206 shown as VY The digit count is sent separately to two different dividers working in tandem with each other; As shown in Figure 11b. The two dividers (0301; and 11302) form an interface between the microcontroller and the linear arrays (YZ vo in Figure oz) Y. The Intel™ 196NU microcontroller is used to read the data received from the divider. The microcontroller controls the algorithm and the instructions stored in the electrostatic RAM (EEPROM) during the process of passing the coin through the linear system. during that process; The data obtained from the linear systems are compared with the data information stored in the flash memory. 0 after counting the information of the stream data received from the longitudinal system; The transmitted information is stored in numerical form in two electrostatic memories (RAM) and this is shown in Figure Y 0 so that the microcontroller can take the data for analysis. In Figure 71e, an EEPROM flash memory is used to store instructions for the microcontroller. These instructions contain calibration data relating to the calibration of the instrument; known currency data; Ye also includes the values of the constants used in the arithmetic logarithm. In Fig. 11, 41, a circuit of a smart display driver LCD 11401 is shown with the number NA and the Jide display is 825510. In Fig. Y 5) the driver also uses the auxiliary motors

To open and close two valves (shown in Figure VY) two photosensors are used and controlled by the actuator Lia to detect the entry and exit of the coin from the passage OF Figures 1h and 71i AB show printed circuit boards that can be used in The circuits of the models Recognize the coin when the coin is blocking part of the laser beam 11 from the radiation in the oF linear sensor array The sensor array? detects whether the coin is intercepting the laser or not This information is used to generate a mark of some feature of the coin front. By basic embodiments of the invention, the length of at least part of the asl elongate strip of the coin front is determined or disclosed. For example dla this extended strip 0 may be the diameter of a coin round; or the maximum cross-section of a non-round coin; or may be a part of those measurements. Obtaining such information allows identification of a dial by matching that information with corresponding data for known coins. The invention (Gaal Jal) uses a laser to obtain This information is therefore faster and can distinguish a large number of currencies compared to previous devices and methods. ve in other embodiments of the invention; The lengths are specified or disclosed for at least parts of a set of elongate strips of the front of the coin. The strip or strips begin at the edge of the coin; It extends to a specific point on the currency. For example; In Figure OF The area scanned by the coin has a number of bands of width. One tip is 0 for each bar at the edge of the coin; A second party extends 1 not © to each strip along the diameter of the coin. The strip, however, may extend strips from the edge of the coin to any predetermined position; do not have a coin edge; But it doesn't necessarily have to be along the diameter. Preferably, the laser beam scans the strips; or parts thereof one by one. In the model shown in Figure VY a number of raster lines are used; Each is 7.5 µm vo (that is, the width of the individual optical elements in the linear array sensor”); Generates a series of measurements corresponding to the scanned part of the coin. Thus, the process can be linked to a process for integrating parts of area measurements; which are grouped together to provide an indication of an attribute of the currency. are acted upon

Cova indeed cali all on odd-shaped coins; Such as the UK +0 pence coin shaped by measuring surface areas. 1000 Hz and 1000 kHz counter signal This system can operate at a rate of between 1 kHz using more components. The typical speed is 9000 systems can operate at a rate between ©9000 kHz and 0007 kHz; The speedometer signal is 0

Ya my favorite is MHz. A working model as described above can produce approx. Then; Those LY measures per second when the coin rotates past the linear system V0, the results are added together in a well-known way to produce a measure of the total area that the system makes

OEM deletes it. It is conceivable that future developments in instrumentation could result in components that allow for a greater number of measurements per second. However; These improvements in 0 speed components are within the scope of the present invention; It is expected that future developments in electronics will allow the invention to operate more efficiently. In the repetition sequence used in the current model; Each scan line has an area of: 9 strip The height of the strip = y where ve and 58 = the width of the sensing factor, which gives: ... yOB+Y180+ 169+ y300 The total area of the strips that have been scanned Wipe it - OY is indicated in the figure OY The formula of the previous function is displayed in a graph shown in the figure to the height of each bar as a value of 7. When the values of 7 are obtained by scanning the coin; ys can compute various dimensions with a variety of arithmetic algorithms. One such logarithm is known as the Trapezoidal Rule or Simpson's Rule; By applying the coordinate rule, the invention is not limited to any middle dais logarithm. Examples of this logarithm are included as a special arithmetic example. Considering half a turn of a currency turnover; with the periodic function for the period c. The coin is symmetrically divided into Yo strips, each of equal width. The width of each bar shall be equal to »/0. was expressed

AY As shown in the figure ayy ayn a buckets... yo The vertical coordinates are as follows:

And - ve ih * Biska dv + aid LL Eh nb Ag Fb + blame + pasture: - ak pve, whine Five Fir arn then, ve ow a I Fld va | + except a and % I Fini = slvg = vy where n = number of strips of equal width. and display each bar. It should be noted that the string between the parentheses stops at yp. The expression is considered as the vertical coordinate of the first m. Adds yal. The values of yp and .ayy are available as array values given at regular intervals. If the values of the function are not given at regular intervals; It is possible to graph y against x and read a new set of values of y at regular intervals of ox etc. ie: 0 when the coin is cleared at a high rate das decreases The need for a compensation circuit to compensate for differences in the speed or acceleration of the coin being tested. on it; The coin tester in the Jal model is not only able to measure geometric distances; io The radius, the diameter, and the obtuse. The high scanning rate caused in part by the fast response time of the laser beam allows; For a coin tester measuring a range of geometric dimensions 1 iteratively. Each of these measurements is iteratively integrated to provide an area measurement of the coin's surface area. on it; Coins are identified by comparing that area measure with the corresponding area measurements of known coins. Using an iterative sequence of integration to obtain the surface areas of the coins is a more accurate way to identify a coin; Because it avoids the problem caused by differences in diameters and radii

Ce due to the grooves on the edge of the coin. In embodiments of the invention measuring geometry on grooves the centering differences may be affected by the hall recesses of the coins; Like or not. Groove Total measurements of the diameter based on taking the measurement from a position where there is a groove and vice versa. Those models that rely on comparisons of surface areas as a basis for coin identification are less reliable; by the concentric differences arising from the existing cavities. 6 Differences due to recesses are taken into account in measurements of larger areas of the coin's surface. It has a set of laser detector with a Ui sane laser detector The use of a laser beam system Precise image elements for laser detection means that very precise dimensions can be measured . Subsequently; Measurements will vary depending on whether the measurement is made near or far from the cavity. This difference in measurements means that reliance solely on single diameter or radius measurements creates uncertainty as to coin identification; Also, it may not be certain whether the measurement was made near or far from the cavity. When a range of measurements is integrated to provide a measure of surface area; Measurements between coins are made by comparing the integral areas of the surface areas. For this reason; Concentrated differences of dimensions around the recesses do not cause a significant difference in: the total surface area of the integrated area._ 1 with speed control; The sum of the scanned images can give the true dimensions of the coin being measured. This speed control can be achieved by using a notch that stops the coin before free fall or spin occurs. Using area measurements as a basis for coin identification is particularly useful for measuring non-round coins; Like coins, they are polygonal. For those non-rounded coins, cross-sectional measurements produce variation values broadly depending on which part of the measurements it is on. However, measuring the surface areas of areas on these coins ope the coin provides measuring areas that can consistently be used as a basis for comparing those coins to other known coins. ; and in some cases on the +0 ridges on the ridges, the inner holes of some circulated coins. These cavities provide the diffraction of the edge of the coin

ls in models in which a set of currency strips are read; Is the sensor system unit design? So that the device can identify the recesses that have been minted at the edge of the coin. As with Figure YY, the recognition of cavities can be used in conjunction with the recognition of other geometric features already described; Or it can be used as the only means of identifying currencies. © Cavity detection allows the device to distinguish between different currencies without the need for further comparisons eg; With regard to the weight, diameter or method of inductance used. For example; The cross-sectional area of a typical beam is generally between 0.0 mm' and 0.04 mm; It is three to eleven times larger than the sensor's pixel size. on it; The diffraction area of single ridges can be clearly analyzed by the lea sensor system

0 #mentioned. Even in the rare case that the diameters, thicknesses and/or surface areas of two coins can be identical; It is inappropriate for those identical coins to share the same dimensions as the recesses. For this reason; Recognizing the features of the cavity of a coin is a very accurate way to identify a large number of coins; Even those coins have pretty much the same geometric dimensions.

1 It is also possible to count the number of recesses located at a predetermined distance x on the edge of a coin; As shown in Figure IVY, the advantage of identifying coins by counting the number of holes in a predetermined distance is that the apparatus and method will be less affected by A= dimensional variations in coins arising from wear and/or damage. Even when the physical dimensions of a coin change slightly due to wear and tear; The number of cavities within a predetermined area remains constant. Furthermore it; if what

Concentration of damage to a small part of the coin; The coin can still be recognized. On condition that the device reads an undamaged edge of the coin. in additional forms; It is possible to produce a numerically identifiable image of the shape of the currency of interest by Gish analyzing the full set of output values from the survey. then; It is possible to compare that scaled image with a number of digital images that were previously stored to identify the currency

Yo is of interest. Processing methods are provided to compensate for the area of any damaged ridges in the coin. This compensation can be achieved as oJ by analyzing the familiar image of undamaged ridges. The device can be set to reject any coins that differ from the stored image by a percentage

‎YYYA

aws _

greater than a predetermined percentage. These changes can be attributed to, for example; for effects to

on the coin.

In another embodiment, a detector using laser radiation may include a sensor array

linear It consists of eight segments consisting of 178 image elements, which form a system of

100740 0 image element. It is noted that broad levels can be used for device arrays

linear sensor But those changes to the models will depend on technical developments in design

linear systems.

The embodiments of the invention can be used on a large number of coin operated machines; like

product vending machines; telephones; locks; Slot machines and automatic money changers. It is noted that models can be used in lea to receive money so that the value of the currency can be adopted

to a credit card or other credit account.

This coin tester can be designed to identify a large number of coins in circulation

around the world. Non-coin coins can also be tested as long as the invention does not depend on methods

magnetic inductance. The device can also be used to identify uncirculated currencies.

1 Coins circulating around the world are minted to have significantly accurate odds dal; frequent possibilities. Some circulating coins can only differ in the order of several microns; For this reason; A particular coin can be identified by obtaining a measurement of a geometric dimension and/or area of the coin; Measured at the multi-micron level; Then compare the measurement(s) against data records of known coin measurements. That degree of accuracy means that

0 -_ The present invention is able to distinguish groups of coins that could not actually be distinguished until now using the previous device and processes. It also means that the device can be used according to the operation on a large number of currencies. Every previous coin-testing device that didn't seek to distinguish between those subtle possibilities will tend to; As in the order of microns; to be useful only with a specific set of currencies in circulation; For example; Currencies are from aly one where they differ

Yo dimensions from coin to coin to a large extent. These former devices are less likely to be used effectively on a wide range of currencies; As some coins can vary in dimension by only a few microns. For example; Only one device of the present invention in experiments was able to distinguish successfully

Cer between a collection of more than a hundred different currencies; The invention is able to distinguish between much larger groups of different currencies. The models are presented as examples only – and modifications are possible within the scope of the enclosed claims.

Claims (1)

alice protection 1 1 - Cum lad test method A laser beam is directed at the interface of 7 process; A laser detector is used to obtain an indication of the Joa dimensional 1 attribute of the coin interface; Where the coin casts a shadow on the ca alll ¢ laser detector, and the laser detector, the aforementioned Taser detector, detects whether the coin intercepts the laser laser or not. 1 "- method Uy of protection Cua) specifies the length of at least one segment of at least one elongate strip of Y to face or reveal the coin. \ ¥ - method according to the protection oY where The lengths of at least Y segments of a set of at least elongate strips shall be specified for the coin front or 7 detection. or the aforementioned parts thereof; one after the other. dla v at the same time. 1 1 method according to protection element dua) Said laser detector Y comprises several image elements adjacent to each other, each of which individually 1 can detect laser radiation 0 laser radiation Yo —— -1 \ method with claim 0; where the beam is stationary and the coin Y moves through the beam . 1 - A method according to the oY protection element, where the coin rotates when it moves through the beam Y. \ 4- A method according to the oY protection element, where the coin moves through a guide (11) when Y moves it past the 'beam -0 \ A method according to the oY protection element, where the coin is in a state of free fall when it passes by beam. 1-1 method of protection oF having one end of the bar or of each Y bar mentioned at the edge of the coin; And a second end of the bar is at a predetermined position that does not v be the edge of the coin. -\Y 1 claim-by-dus (FV) method Defines or exposes a Y-dimensional feature of the groove and/or ridge on the edge of the coin. oF where the coin has at least one grooves or ridges at its edge and where a number of grooves and/or ridges are counted at a predetermined distance on the edge of the coin. A method under claim 1 where a second laser beam Y is directed at an edge of the coin and detected to determine an attribute of the edge and/or li of the coin. laser beam laser glad Cua VE method is derived according to claim 1-1 7 the second mentioned from the first laser beam mentioned above. laser beam A method of claim 10 whereby said second laser beam =) 1 Y is derived from the first said laser beam by a prism 3 that redirects part of said first Taser beam. -11 1 method according to the protection element (Cum) that at the point of intersection of said coin and laser beam; The said coin is perpendicular to the laser beam, beam v, mentioned. —1A 1 method according to claim 0 being at the point of overlap of said coin and beam Y; The aforementioned Jaser beam laser beam is largely in ,. laser beam image of a thin plane of laser radiation v / 4 )— a method according to claim 0 where the mentioned Jaser beam laser detector consists of an integrated CMOS sensor with a holding position and digital outputs. coin testing device; Includes a 1 0 Y sks laser source to direct a laser beam at a coin interface; ¢ laser detector 3 ¢ signal-processor 24 to get an indication of the output from the 8 laser detector for a dimensional feature of the coin interface; 1 Where that coin casts a shadow on the aforementioned Jaser detector and the aforementioned laser detector is considered to detect the interception of the coin A for laser or not. -71 1 device of claim Sh Yr specifying the length of a part at least ie of the coin front or detection al elongate strip at least of an extended strip Y —YY 1 device of claim di 1 So that it specifies the lengths of parts at least Y of a set of elongate strips extending at least to the currency front or Y detection. YY 1 device of claim (YY wherein the beam scans said Y strips; or said parts thereof terminated one by one. VE \ — device of claim oY) wherein the beam has The aforementioned beam is a fan-like shape that touches on all of the aforementioned strip or each separately; 01 or part thereof; At the same time. laser source where the laser source is (Vr is a device according to the protection element - 0 1 "> and on that beam are fixed andy the device so that it causes the movement of the coin passing .beam with Y beam 1 - A device according to the YO claim that has a guide for the coin to move along ,. beam when passing through the beam XY YY 1 device according to the protection element (YO 2) so that when used; the coin ,. beam is in free fall as it passes through the Y beam —YA \ device according to the oY protection element) since when in use; be one party 7 for the strip or for each strip mentioned at the edge of the coin; and be a second party For the strip at a predetermined position that is not an edge of the coin. \ 4*- device according to the sandbox (VY where the dimensional Asie} attribute is specified To hollow out a groove and/or ridge at the edge of a coin or reveal it. -0 1 Gay device for protection YY where the coin has at least one of the Grooves or ridges at its edge and where a number of 3 Grooves and/or ridges at a predetermined distance on the edge of the coin. laser includes a means of directing a Fe laser beam Device according to claim =) 1 beam 0 _second at edge of the coin; And a means of detecting the position of the coin's interception of the beam SB) beam 0: A means to specify an attribute of the edge and/or the coin's valuer according to the above. 1 "*- Apparatus according to the oF protection element incorporating means for deriving the laser beam laser beam Y The second laser beam from the first laser beam mentioned. —¥Y 1 Apparatus of claim FY incorporating the means of deriving the laser beam beam: 1286 second from the first laser beam mentioned on a publication v redirects part of the first laser beam mentioned. laser detector include Cus Fv laser detector for protection element Ga, device 4-1 Y mentioned on 3c image elements adjacent to [Leann] each other; You can each of them 0 laser radiation Single from the detection of laser radiation Vv To 1 is a device of claim 17, whereby it is at the point of overlap of the coin and the beam ws - beam ¥ _mentioned »; The coin is perpendicular to the mentioned laser beam 7 glad. FY 1 method according to the protection element + Cum oY that at the point of overlap of said coin and beam Y; The said laser beam is pretty much in 1 form a thin plane of laser beam radiation. 1 7"#- dled test device comprising: Y Sal laser source for pointing a laser beam at a coin; 7 Laser detector taser detector set to detect coin interception of laser ¢ from Whether or not; 8 A coin router is set to allow the AS ally coin to pass through a specific corridor; The coin can 1 intercept part of the laser beam passing between the laser source and the laser detector during this Path; A Bk signal processor for output from the laser detector ¢ 4 where the ratio of the laser beam intercepted by the coin provides at least 1 measure of a geometric dimension of the coin; the coin can be identified by By comparing the measurement of 1 said coin with corresponding measurements of a number of known coins 1 4©- coin tester ly for protection FY where at least one measurement is made of a geometric dimension on the front of said coin; a measurement is made A second of your notation y of said coin to compare those measurements of face and thickness with the corresponding measurements of said number of known coins. PE where the scope of the PV coin tester is measured according to the element of protection*4 - 1 iteratively geometry dimensions to provide integral area measurement of the surface area of said coin Y; Said coin can be identified by comparing the area measure v of said coin with the corresponding area measure of the number of known coins mentioned. For claim 79 where dimensional attribute Gy coin tester 0 -1 and/or sole is specified on A groove of a dimensional groove ¥ where the coin has one on oF protection coin tester — 8) 1 at its edge and where fewer ridges and grooves are counted of the recesses Y at a predetermined distance on the ridges and/or grooves of the recesses v of the coin. Where each relates to a measurement (FV”;- coin tester pursuant to claim 1 Geometric dimension of said coin; and the corresponding measurements of a number of known coins Y mentioned in measures of coins smaller than the diameter of each individual coin; or in the case of 1 coins of odd shapes; measure of coins smaller than the maximum cross section ¢ of each individual coin o Where the laser beam moves FY coin tester according to the protection element —£¥ \ and the aforementioned laser source detector passing between the Jaser beam laser source between them via an indirect route. oy SAA Taser detector The laser plat where fF ?- coin tester is directed according to the claim \ via said indirect route by one or more laser beam Y mirrors or prisms. 1 where said route includes FY Currency tester of protection - 1 has a lower limit; The said currency can move on it through the device jae on >" 41 - - ¥ while it is continuously supported at its circumferential edge by the lower border of said passage. 1 7 - A coin tester pursuant to protection £0 wherein the said laser source shall be installed so that it directs the laser beam from one side of the "> to another" side of the said passage; and shall be substantially perpendicular to the The main level of the coin in the aisle mentioned, to be intercepted by the upper parts 0 of said coin when it moves through said corridor segment. 1 - The currency tester according to the protection element PY, where the aforementioned laser detector Y includes a linear system of several image elements adjacent to each other. 1 some; Each of them can detect laser radiation. 1 8;- a coin tester of claim 47 wherein a number of the coins, Y, have diameters in a range from the minimum diameter to the maximum diameter; And the said laser source 3 is installed so that it directs the glad laser beam from the AY side of the AY part of the said path; and is largely perpendicular to the main plane of the coinage in the aforementioned passage; to be intercepted by the upper parts 1 of said coin when it moves through said lane segment; The aforementioned system does not extend in parallel to the aforementioned main level; and transversely with respect to A to the direction of movement of the coin through the aforementioned part of the aisle” and shall have a lower end 9 spaced at a first distance from the aforementioned lower border; and that first distance is less than Ya the minimum diameter of the said number of coins; an upper end a second apart from said lower 11th term; The second said distance is greater than the maximum diameter of the number of \Y coins mentioned; The said Jaser detector works to produce a VY output that depends on the number of said image elements that the said laser beam (¢) is blocked at a set of successive sampling conditions; With Vo moves the coin across said part of the pass so that said outputs can be compared ‎YY YA 1 with previous reference data registers to confirm which VY registers correspond to said output. \ £9 — Clause 7 coin tester;; Where each element of the said image is part of a charge collector or charge detector. -0 1 coin testing device according to the element of protection (FY) where the mentioned coin moves through the mentioned path so that at the point of interception the said coin is absolutely perpendicular to the mentioned Jaser beam laser glad. 51 1 device Claim coin test FY where said laser beam Y intercepted by said coin is at point of interception; to the extent of 1 in the form of a thin level of laser radiation.—OY 1 Claim coin tester FY where said Y currency tester is configured to work with said currency other than the current currency ——o¥ 1 currency tester under Clause FY where said Y has more than one laser source source one and more than one laser detector 3 and one —o 8 coin-operated tool including coin tester hy for protection A YY —o0 1 coin-operated tool including A device for testing currency according to Protection Element Y (FY). a ASH - \ - A coin tester comprising: Y A coin guide that defines a coin route; has a lower bound; 1 the coin can move through the device while being continuously supported at its edge surrounding said lower bound; A laser source installed to direct a laser beam from side to side in the © part of the aforementioned corridor and be largely perpendicular to the main plane of coin 1 in the aforementioned corridor, so that it is intercepted by the upper parts of the said coin when it moves through the aforementioned part of the corridor A laser detector that includes; On the other side of the aforementioned part of the passage 1 is a linear system of places to receive allll and that system extends in parallel to 10 large limits of the said main level and transversely with respect to the direction of movement of the coin 1 through the said part of the passage; and shall have a lower limb spaced a first distance, VY, from said lower bound; and that first distance is less than the minimum diameter of said number of VY coins J; that are used in the device; an upper end spaced a second "" from said lower border; the second said distance is greater than the yo maximum diameter of the number of coins mentioned; The aforementioned laser detector works to produce 1 output that depends on the number of aforementioned image elements Al. The aforementioned laser beam VY is masked at de gana from successive sampling cases; VA by moving the coin across the said gall so that the said 4 outputs can be compared with predefined reference data records to confirm which of those records Y. Corresponds to the indicated output. —oV 1 A method for identifying a coin involves the following steps: Jaa 1) The coin moves along a specific path; So that said coin intercepts part 1 of a laser beam passing between a laser beam radiation source and a laser detector ¢ laser detector ¢ 0 ? (Measurement of the percentage of the said Taser beam) ll that is intercepted as a means 1 to confirm the measurement At least one (a2) geometry of said currency. YYYA D-7 *) Compare the measurement of the two coins mentioned with the corresponding measurement of a number of known A coins to identify the said coin. —0A 1 method under claim OY in which at least one measurement is made of a geometric dimension on said coin front; Said method also includes the ¥ confirmation step of the leds measurement of said coin to compare those measurements with corresponding measurements of a number of known known coins mentioned. 1 9- A method according to the claim (0Y) where said method also includes Y the step of confirming the measurement of a number of geometric dimensions of the said coin to provide an integral v area measurement of the surface area of the said coin; said coin can be identified by ¢ By comparing the area measurements of the two coins mentioned with the corresponding area measurements (23a) of these known coins mentioned. 0-1 Gy method for claim 08 where it also includes step identification or Y detection of a dimensional daw of the grooves and/or ridge on the edge of the coin. -11-1 method according to Clause 09) where said coin has 1 on Y least of the number of grooves and ridges at its edge and also includes 1 step of counting the number of grooves and/or ridges ridges at a predetermined distance 1 on the mentioned coin. One of them is the detection of laser radiation. — mg $ _ 1 7 +- method according to claim TY where at least one such system Y includes an array of charge collectors or charge detectors. 1 4- A method according to the protection element (OV) where the coin is moved along the aforementioned Y path, so that at the point of interception the said coin is perpendicular in an absolute 1 shape to the mentioned Taser beam. 1 5+ - A method according to the OV protection element, where the value of the said currency is approved according to the Y of a credit card or credit account. detector to get an indication of a 1-dimensional feature of the coin, where the mentioned optical detector detects whether the coin ¢ intercepts the light beam or not, and the lengths are specified for at least 8 parts of a set of elongate strips parallel to Large limit 1 and adjacent to the front of the coin or revealing it and the light beam scans the said dail 7 strips; or the aforementioned parts of it one by one.