Bulk vending machine sales monitoring apparatus and method
US6986416B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 9, 2003 |
| Grant date | Jan 17, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 7, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06Q20/20
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatus and methods for securely monitoring the sales transactions in bulk vending machines are disclosed, the apparatus operable with at least one bulk vending machine having a coin mechanism that conventionally includes a coin plate, a selectively rotatable handle having a shaft extending radially therefrom, and a coin shuttle. The apparatus of this invention includes a lobe bearing cam mountable at the shaft and an adapter/sensor having first and second switches and an output interface mounted thereon, the switches oriented relative to one another so that the maximum amount of normal backlash (reverse rotation) of the coin plate during vending is accommodated (is less than the angular spread between the switches). The apparatus further includes a microprocessor connectable with the switches through the output interface for counting and recording sales indicated by activation of both of the switches in order, and circuitry for identifying occurrences of apparatus tampering or fault.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.