Patent ID: 6116977
Filing Date: 2000-09-12
Classification: A45C

Abstract:
A self-contained collection box for soliciting and collecting charitable donations in the form of currency and coins, comprising:the collection box having walls defining a currency and coin collection chamber;the walls defining a coin slot communicating with the currency and coin chamber and a second opening defined in the walls;a light sensor in the collection box aligned with the second opening for detecting through the second opening only changes in light intensity that would indicate the presence of individuals in the vicinity of said collection box and for sending a detection signal when an individual has been detected;a microprocessor in said box, to receive said detection signal;an audio output device, provided in the box for broadcasting a first audio message;the microprocessor providing a signal to the audio output device in response to the detection signal whereby an audible first message of solicitation may be broadcast on time for the individual being detected to be within the range of the first message;detector switch means for detecting currency or coins passing into the collection box through the slot, said microprocessor providing a second audible audio message upon detection of currency or coins.