Mechanical Coin Slots:
1. Coin Entry: The coin is inserted into the slot, usually a vertical or horizontal opening.
2. Coin Guide: The coin rolls down a guide, typically made of metal or plastic, which directs it towards the acceptance mechanism.
3. Detection Mechanism:
- Weight and Size: The coin is assessed based on its weight and size. A series of metal plates or sensors (like a "coin switch") are triggered by the coin's dimensions.
- Magnetic Detection: In some cases, a magnetic sensor detects the coin's composition.
4. Acceptance: If the coin meets the criteria, it is accepted, often falling into a receptacle.
5. Rejection: If the coin is too small, too large, or doesn't meet the magnetic signature, it is rejected, usually falling into a separate return slot.
Electronic Coin Slots:
1. Coin Entry: The coin is inserted as in mechanical slots.
2. Coin Sensor: The coin is detected by an electronic sensor. This could be:
- Optical Sensor: A light beam is shone on the coin, and its size and shape are measured by the reflected light.
- Inductive Sensor: The coin creates a magnetic field as it passes through an inductive coil.
3. Signal Processing: The sensor data is sent to a microprocessor, which analyzes the information and compares it to a stored database of valid coin characteristics.
4. Acceptance/Rejection: The microprocessor determines if the coin is valid. If it is, the coin is accepted; if not, it is rejected.
5. Actuator: An actuator (like a solenoid) is used to physically move the coin into either the acceptance or rejection path.
Additional Features:
- Anti-fishing Mechanism: Prevents people from inserting foreign objects or using magnets to try and steal money.
- Coin Counting: Many coin slots have a counter that keeps track of the number of coins inserted.
- Anti-Jamming Mechanism: Prevents coins from getting stuck within the slot.
Overall, coin slots work by using a combination of mechanical and/or electronic mechanisms to identify valid coins and separate them from invalid ones.
Let me know if you want a more detailed explanation of any specific aspect of a coin slot!