Anti-pilfering device for a vending machine
US7264138B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 1, 2004 |
| Grant date | Sep 4, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 18, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG07F11/163
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A vending machine includes a storage/display region, a dispensing chamber including a product access opening, and an anti-pilfer device that prevents unauthorized removal of products from the storage/display region through the product access opening. A delivery door is provided which can be shifted from a closed position to an open position to enable the removal of products from the dispensing chamber. The anti-pilfer device includes a plate coupled to a lower portion of the delivery door. When the delivery door is moved from the closed position, the anti-pilfer plate shifts, over a guide element, into a position that prevents products from being withdrawn from the storage/display area. Preferably, the storage/display region and dispensing chamber are separated by a product door, with the anti-pilfer plate preventing the product door from opening when the delivery door is shifted from the closed position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.