Patent Abstract:
A coin handling and sorting device includes a plurality of coin handling modules which are interconnectable by a user, as desired, to define a coin travel path. Each module is easily assembled by a user without use of tools. To facilitate assembly, bases, gears, retaining clips, and other components of different coin handling modules are interchangeable. The housing and other components of each module are assembled using a plurality of C-clips. Each module is typically manually operated to increase a user&#39;s interaction with the device. A clutch mechanism prevents accidental reverse operation of each module by a user. To facilitate interconnection of coin handling modules in any desired order, each has an inlet at a common height with other coin module inlets and an outlet at a common height with other coin module outlets. Each module also utilizes identical interchangeable modified spur/bevel gears that are shaped to accommodate co-planar engagement or angular displacement between engaged pairs. A coin connector interconnects the modules and includes a ramp in its inlet to flip coins onto their edges so that they roll to a downstream module. The connectors are pivotable relative to the modules to allow for varied placement of the modules and to facilitate construction of an endless loop coin travel path.

Full Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/244,937 filed Feb. 4, 1999. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to the art of coin handling and sorting. More particularly, the present invention relates to a modular device for receiving unsorted coins, transporting the coins through a complex path, and sorting the coins by size into conventional coin wrappers or containers. 
     Coin sorting devices are useful for quickly and easily sorting and packaging coins of different denominations. Typically, coin sorting devices receive a plurality of differently denominated coins and direct each of the coins to the appropriate one of a plurality of coin wrappers or other containers based upon coin diameter. Such devices operate by causing coins to be moved along a predetermined path which has multiple sorting slots; one for each size of coin to be sorted and arranged in order of increasing size along the coin travel path. In operation, each coin drops through the first slot encountered which accommodates that coin&#39;s diameter and into a coin wrapper or container. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,474,496 to Perkitny discloses a coin sorting device including a coin receiver into which a plurality of unsorted coins are deposited. A motorized separator mechanism lifts individual coins from the receiver and deposits same onto an upper portion of a helical coin path. The coins roll downwardly on the path where they encounter the coin-receiving apertures arranged in order of increasing size. Upon encountering the first sufficiently sized aperture, a coin will pass therethrough and into a waiting coin container and/or wrapper. Devices such as that disclosed in the Perkitny &#39;496 patent have commonly been manufactured from clear or transparent plastic so that the coins may be clearly perceived as they travel from the coin receiving area to the sorted coin containers to provide amusement for an operator of the device. 
     Prior coin sorting devices have typically been entirely self-contained and not suitable for use together with other coin handling or sorting devices to provide a kinetic art form in the manipulation of coins. Therefore, their amusement and entertainment value has been somewhat limited due to the repetitious nature of the coin sorting operation. Furthermore, these prior coin sorting devices have not included an exit path for the coins other than into sorted coin wrappers or containers, i.e., these prior devices have not been designed to communicate coins to an adjacent or downstream coin handling/sorting device. Thus, they could not be rearranged to alter the manipulation sequence of the coins. Also, these prior devices have typically been motorized and/or operated solely under force of gravity so that, once a user placed the unsorted coins in the receiver, the user was relegated to the role of simply observing the coin handling and/or sorting operation. The user could not, himself, power the coin sorter. Obviously, over time, mere passive observation of coin handling/sorting operations can become tedious and uninteresting. 
     Prior coin handling/sorting devices have also been at least substantially pre-assembled using screws and other conventional fasteners requiring tools. Therefore, these prior devices could not be conveniently assembled and/or disassembled by a user as desired, at least not without use of tools. Therefore, these prior devices did not provide users, such as children, with a detailed understanding of their inner-workings for purposes of learning mechanical principles. 
     In light of the foregoing and other deficiencies associated with these prior coin handling and sorting devices, it has been deemed desirable to develop a modular coin handling and sorting device which is easily assembled by a user without use of tools, which allows a user to participate in the coin handling/sorting operation, which may be interconnected with one or more coin handling/sorting devices in any desired order to vary the coin path, and which provides a complex and varied coin travel path to increase a user&#39;s amusement and enjoyment of the device. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In accordance with the present invention, a new and improved modular coin handling and sorting device is provided. 
     In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, a coin handling device includes a plurality of coin handling modules, each comprising an inlet for receiving coins, an outlet for dispensing coins, and a coin transport mechanism for conveying coins individually from the inlet to the outlet. At least one coin connector extends between an outlet of an upstream module and an inlet of a downstream module and is adapted for conveying coins from the outlet of the upstream module to the inlet of the downstream module. A coin sorter has an unsorted coin inlet in communication with the outlet of one of the modules for sorting coins received therefrom. 
     In accordance with a more limited aspect of the invention, the coin handling device further includes a plurality of bases for respectively supporting the plurality of modules above a support surface. Each base includes a first boss for rotatably supporting an input gear, and an input gear is rotatably supported thereon. A stem projects upwardly from the input gear so that a user can grasp the stem to rotate the input gear. 
     In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a coin handling device includes a support base including a first boss for rotatably supporting an input gear, and an input gear rotatably supported on the base. A stem projects upwardly from the input gear for grasping by a user to effect rotation thereof. A coin handling module is supported by the base and includes (i) a coin inlet, (ii) a coin outlet, and, (iii) a coin transport mechanism adapted for transporting coins from the inlet to the outlet in response to rotation of the input gear. 
     In accordance with still another aspect of the invention, a coin handling module includes a support base and a housing supported on the base. The housing includes (i) a coin inlet, (ii) a coin outlet, and, (iii) a coin transport mechanism adapted for transporting coins from the inlet to the outlet. A drive system is manually operable by a user of the coin handling module and is operatively connected to the transport mechanism. 
     In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for handling coins includes first and second coin handling modules each having (i) an inlet for receiving coins, (ii) an outlet for dispensing coins, and, (iii) a coin transport mechanism for conveying coins individually from the inlet to the outlet. A coin connector includes a connector inlet connected to the outlet of the first module and a connector outlet connected to the inlet of the second module so that coins are conveyed thereby from the first module to the second module. The coin connector further includes (i) a coin transport channel connecting the connector inlet and connector outlet. The channel is conformed to support coins on their edges so that coins roll from the connector inlet to the connector outlet. A coin deflecting ramp is associated with the connector inlet and inclined downwardly toward the coin transport channel for deflecting coins deposited into the connector inlet onto their edges as the coins pass from the inlet to the channel. 
     One advantage of the present invention is that it provides a new and improved modular coin handling and sorting device. 
     Another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a modular coin handling system which is easily assembled and disassembled without use of tools and wherein bases, gears, retaining clips, and other components of different coin handling modules are interchangeable. 
     A further advantage of the present invention is the provision of a coin handling system which can be manually operated or motorized to increase a user&#39;s interaction with the device. 
     Still another advantage of the present invention resides in the provision of a coin handling device which includes a plurality of different coin handling and/or sorting modules which may be interconnected, arranged, and rearranged in a wide variety of different configurations to provide increased enjoyment. 
     A still further advantage of the present invention is the provision of a modular coin handling device wherein each of the coin handling modules has an inlet at a common height with other coin module inlets and an outlet at a common height with other coin module outlets so that the modules may be easily interconnected in any desired order. 
     A yet further advantage of the present invention is found in the provision of a modular coin handling device which may be constructed and utilized so as to circulate coins in an endless loop for amusement and learning purposes. 
     Another advantage of the present invention is that proper manual operation of a coin handling module is facilitated via a clutch mechanism which prevents accidental reverse operation of the coin handling module. 
     A further advantage of the present invention is the provision of a modular coin handling system in which each module utilizes identical interchangeable modified spur/bevel gears that are shaped to accommodate co-planar engagement or angular displacement between engaged pairs. 
     Still other benefits and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the following specification. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The invention may take form in certain components and structures, preferred embodiments of which will be illustrated in the accompanying drawings wherein: 
     FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first coin handling module in accordance with the present invention; 
     FIG. 2 is a rear elevational view of the first coin handling module shown in FIG. 1; 
     FIG. 3A is a front cross-sectional view of the first coin handling module shown in FIG. 1; 
     FIG. 3B is a perspective view of an auger coin lifting mechanism used in the first coin handling module shown in FIG. 1; 
     FIG. 3C is a perspective view of the drive-disc used in the first coin handling module shown in FIG. 1; 
     FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a second coin handling module in accordance with the present invention; 
     FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of the second coin handling module shown in FIG. 4; 
     FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the second coin handling module illustrated in FIG. 4; 
     FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a third coin handling module formed in accordance with the present invention and connected to a coin sorting module by way of a coin connector; 
     FIG. 7B is a rear elevational view of the third coin handling module shown in FIG. 7A, the illustrated module having a transparent housing; 
     FIG. 8 is a partial top plan view of a coin indexing ramp portion of the third coin handling module illustrated in FIG.  7  and taken along view line  8 — 8 ; 
     FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the third coin handling module as shown in FIG. 7; 
     FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a coin sorting module formed in accordance with the present invention; 
     FIG. 10B is an exploded perspective view of the coin sorting module of FIG. 10A; 
     FIGS. 11A and 11B are, respectively, perspective and cross-sectional views of a coin connector formed in accordance with the present invention, the coin connector being used with the modules of FIGS. 1,  4 , and  7 ; 
     FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a fastening C-clip formed in accordance with the present invention; 
     FIG. 12B is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the fastening C-clip of FIG. 12A in its operative position for securing two coin handling module housing portions together; 
     FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a base for supporting the first, second, or third coin handling module in accordance with the present invention; and, 
     FIGS. 14A and 14B are front and rear perspective views, respectively, of a gear formed in accordance with the present invention. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Referring now to the drawings, wherein the showings are for purposes of illustrating preferred embodiments only and not for purposes of limiting same, FIGS. 1-3C illustrate a first coin handling module  20  in accordance with the present invention. The first module  20  is supported on a base B and comprises a coin inlet  22  adapted for receiving coins of any denomination. The coin inlet is in communication with the interior of a coin disc housing  24  wherein a coin disc  26  is rotationally supported between a front housing wall  24   f  and a rear housing wall  24   r . The coin disc includes an opening  28 , such as an aperture or notch, large enough in size to receive the largest diameter coin to be sorted. The housing  24  is inclined rearwardly from vertical so that coins entering the inlet  22  fall onto the disc  26 . When the disc rotates (as indicated by the arrow R 1 ) the opening  28  eventually passes underneath and communicates with the coin inlet  22  so that a coin enters the opening  28 . Depending upon the orientation of the coin, either the front or rear face of the coin received in the opening  28  will be supported against the housing rear wall  24   r  so that the coin is moved with the disc  26  in the opening  28 . 
     It is important that the disc  26  lie closely adjacent the rear wall  24   r  to prevent a coin from sliding between the disc and the wall  24   r . Also, the thickness of the disc  26 , and the closeness of the wall  24   r  thereto, must be controlled so that one and only one coin is received in the opening  28  at any given time—i.e., the disc “strips” individual coins from the coin inlet  22 . Thus, with respect to coins from The United States of America, the disc  26  must be thick enough so that a quarter is able to be received in the opening  28  and pass between the walls  24   f , 24   r  without difficulty. On the other hand, the disc  26  must be thin enough so that only one coin is able to be accommodated in the opening  28  and pass between the walls  24   f , 24   r . For example, this prevents two dimes from being received simultaneously in the opening  28  and being conveyed by the disc  26 . Although shown herein with one opening  28 , the disc  26  can also be provided with two, three, or more openings  28  to receive coins from the inlet  22  for purposes of more rapidly conveying coins. 
     Once a coin is transferred from the coin inlet to the opening  28  of the disc  26 , further rotation R 1  of the disc causes the disc to carry the coin in the aperture  28  until the opening communicates with a coin chute  30  at the upper portion of the housing rear wall  24   r . Because the housing  24  is rearwardly inclined, a coin in the opening will pass therethrough and into the chute  30 . The chute  30  is arranged and conformed so that a coin deposited therein from the disc  26  will roll on its edge downwardly to a drive-disc housing  32  and drop therein under force of gravity. 
     The drive-disc housing  32  includes a drive-disc  34  supported therein for rotation as indicated by the arrow R 2 . The drive-disc includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced peripheral petals  36  and first and second coin receiving regions  38   a , 38   b  extending outwardly from a first face  39  thereof. A coin entering the drive-disc housing  32  from the chute  30  drops into one of the coin receiving regions  38   a , 38   b  and is carried by rotation R 2  of the drive-disc to the region of a coin screw or auger housing  40 —i.e., the coins in the regions  38   a , 38   b  drop out same when the disc  34  rotates sufficiently so that the coins pass to the auger housing  40 . To ensure that the coins are properly passed to the auger housing  40 , first and second coin pushing or cam surfaces  38   c , 38   d  are also defined to extend outwardly from the face  39  of the disc  34 . Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that as the disc  34  rotates R 2 , a coin that falls from a region  38   a , 38   b  will be pushed by the surface  38   d , 38   c , respectively, into the auger housing  40  upon further rotation R 2 . 
     The coin auger housing  40  contains a coin screw or auger  42  supported for rotation therein about its longitudinal axis as indicated by the arrow R 3 . The coin auger includes helical threads  44  that are spaced sufficiently far apart to accommodate the diameter of the largest coin to be handled. In this manner, coins passing from the drive-disc housing  32  to the auger housing  40  are received in the spaces  46  defined between adjacent sections of the helical threads  44 . These coins are conveyed upwardly in the chamber  40  by rotation R 3  of the auger  42 . Also, it should be noted that the petals  36  of the drive-disc successively mate with the auger  42  by being received in the spaces  46  when the auger  42  and drive-disc  34  rotate. In this manner, rotation R 3  of the auger  42  causes rotation R 2  of the drive-disc  34 . 
     As the auger  42  rotates, coins in the spaces  46  are conveyed upwardly to a coin exit chute  50  of the first module  20 . The chute  50  slopes downwardly toward a coin outlet  52  and is conformed so that coins entering the chute  50  from the auger housing  40  roll on their edges to the coin exit  52  where they fall out of the module  20  under force of gravity for passage to an adjacent or connected module. 
     Turning now to FIGS. 4-6, a second coin handling module  120  is supported on a base B and includes an inlet  122  adapted to receive coins from an upstream module or any other source. The coin inlet  122  communicates with a first coin disc housing  124   a  which includes a coin transfer disc  126   a  therein supported for clockwise rotation (as indicated by the arrow R 4 ) in a manner similar to the disc  26  described above in that coins from the inlet  122  pass into the disc housing  124   a  and are individually received in an opening  128   a  in the disc  126   a . Again, the disc  126   a  lies closely adjacent a rear wall  130   a  of the housing  124   a  and is of a controlled minimum thickness so that coins are individually stripped from the inlet  122  and received in the opening  128   a . Also, the housing  124   a  and disc  126   a  are inclined rearwardly as is seen in FIG. 5 so that coins are supported in the opening  128   a  by the rear wall  130   a.    
     The second module  120  also includes second and third coin disc housings  124   b  and  124   c  which support coin transfer discs  126   b , 126   c  therein for counter-clockwise and clockwise rotation, respectively, as shown by arrows R 5 ,R 6 . The second and third coin disc housings  124   b , 124   c  and discs  126   b , 126   c  are substantially similar to each other and to the first coin disc housing and disc  124   a , 126   a . However, the second and third coin disc housings  124   b , 124   c  are arranged so that the second coin disc  126   b  is vertically above and partially overlapping the first coin disc  126   a . Likewise, the third coin disc  126   c  is vertically above and partially overlaps the second coin disc  126   b . The discs  126   a - 126   c  are not co-planer but are parallel and lie closely adjacent where they overlap. The second and third coin discs  126   b , 126   c  also lie closely adjacent rear walls  130   b , 130   c , respectively, and are conformed so that only a single coin is received in their respective openings  128   b , 128   c , as described above. Preferably, the openings  128   a - 128   c  increase slightly in diameter from the disc  126   a  to the disc  126   c  and the openings  128   b , 128   c  are elongated and defined by beveled edges to facilitate coin movement into and out of these openings. Also, timing marks and/or arrows (not shown) may be placed on the discs  126   a - 126   c  to facilitate assembly and to ensure proper interaction therebetween. 
     With particular reference to FIG. 6, the rear walls  130   a - 130   c  are preferably formed in a single plate  136 . Furthermore, to ensure that each disc  126   a - 126   c  lies closely adjacent its respective rear wall  130   a - 130   c , a plurality of biasing springs  140  are positioned between the plate  136  and a rear housing member  142   r  of the module  120 . Preferably, the springs  140  are coil springs and are received on bosses  144  projecting outwardly from the rear housing member  142   r.    
     The first and second discs  126   a , 126   b  counter-rotate. The discs  126   a , 126   b  are also arranged so that, as the first disc  126   a  rotates clockwise along arrow R 4  and carries a coin upwardly in its opening  128   a , the openings  128   a , 128   b  will be placed in registry so that, due to the rearward inclination of the discs  126   a , 126   b , the coin in the opening  126   a  passes into the second coin disc housing  124   b  and is received in the second coin disc opening  128   b.    
     Likewise, the second and third discs  128   b , 128   c  counter-rotate and are arranged so that, as the second disc  126   b  rotates counter-clockwise along arrow R 5  and carries a coin upwardly in its opening  128   b , the openings  128   b , 128   c  will be placed in registry. When this occurs, the coin will pass from the opening  128   b  into the third disc housing  124   c  and be received by the opening  128   c  in the third disc  126   c.    
     As the third disc  126   c  rotates clockwise along arrow R 6 , the coin in the opening  128   c  is carried upwardly until the opening  128   c  communicates with an exit chute  132  formed in the rear wall  130   c . Due to the rearward inclination of the disc  126   c  and wall  130   c , the coin will pass from the opening  128   c  into the exit chute  132 . The exit chute  132  is downwardly inclined and conformed so that a coin received from the third disc  126   c  rolls on its edge downwardly toward a coin exit  134  where the coin exits the second coin handling module  120 . 
     FIGS. 7A-9 illustrate a third coin handling module  220  in accordance with the present invention. The module  220  is also supported on a base B. Coins are received by a coin inlet  222  from an upstream module or any other source. The coin inlet  222  communicates coins to a coin transport ramp housing  224  which includes a stepped ramp or incline  226  defined therein by a first housing member  228   a  and a mating rear housing member  228   b . As is shown in FIG. 8, the stepped ramp  226  includes a central space which accommodates a coin indexing member  230  mounted for reciprocation as indicated along line R 7 . The stepped ramp  226  is defined by a plurality of individual, successive steps  240 . The coin indexing member  230  is likewise defined by plural, individual, successive steps or coin pushing members  242 . The coin indexing member  230  reciprocates along line R 7  between a retracted position (FIG. 8) where in each of its steps  242  are retracted relative to an associated step of the ramp  226 , and an extended or pushing position wherein each of its steps  242  move forward (away from the inlet  222 ) and upward so that a coin C is indexed forwardly and upwardly to a successive step  240  as shown in broken lines. Preferably, the coin C is not flipped over as it moves from its first step  240  to a next, successive step  240 . The coin indexing member  230  is retracted and the process is then repeated so that the coin C travels upward in a step-wise manner to a coin outlet  250  where it exits the third module  220 . The front and rear housing members  228   a , 228   b  preferably define a downwardly sloped ramp  252  to feed the coin C from the stepped ramp  226  to the outlet  250 . 
     In a similar manner, the housings  228   a , 228   b  define an inlet ramp  254  to the housing  224  which provides a platform to support one or more coins C. It is important that the pushing member  242  of the coin indexing member  230  associated with the inlet ramp  254  extend upward above the ramp  254  only a sufficient distance to push a single coin from the ramp  254  to the next step  240 . In this manner, even if multiple coins are stacked on the ramp  254 , coins will be individually stripped from the bottom of such a stack up the stepped ramp  226 . A cover  260  covers the coin ramp housing  224 . 
     FIGS. 7A,  10 A, and  10 B illustrate a coin sorting module  320  formed in accordance with the present invention. The coin sorting module  320  comprises a coin inlet  322  which receives unsorted coins and passes same to a downwardly inclined ramp or slide  324 . As is generally known in the coin sorting arts, the slide  324  includes a plurality of openings  326   a - 326   d  arranged in order of increasing size from the inlet  322  downwardly toward a lower portion  328  of the slide  324 . In this manner, unsorted coins slide down the ramp  324  on one of their faces and drop through the first one of the openings  326   a - 326   d  which is sufficiently large to allow its passage. Of course, more or less openings  326   a - 326   d  may be provided depending upon the number of denominations of coins to be sorted. 
     The slide  324  is fixedly supported on a base  330 . In particular, the base  330  includes a coin container receiving section  332  which fixedly supports the slide on an upper inclined edge  334  thereof. The coin container receiving section  332  also releasably receives and retains a plurality of coin tubes or containers  336  for placement underneath each of the openings  326   a - 326   d , respectively, so that sorted coins are received in the containers  336  and retained in a stack. Optionally, a coin wrapper may first be placed in each container  336  so that the sorted coins are wrapped as they are sorted. The coin containers  336  are seated upon a pedestal member  340  which forms a part of the base  330  and includes platforms  342  of differing heights so that the upper edges  338  of the coin containers  336  are positioned at decreasing heights so that the slide  340  can be positioned just vertically above each coin container  336 . A rear wall  350  of the coin container receiving section  332  includes a finger-access opening  352  associated with each coin container  336  so that a user is able to push each container  336  outward, away from the wall  350 , for ease of removal of the container  336  from the base  330 . Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that any other coin sorter may be used to sort coins together with the modules  20 , 120 , 220  without departing from the overall scope and intent of the present invention. 
     With reference now to FIGS. 11A and 11B, a coin connector  400  in accordance with the present invention is illustrated. The coin connector  400  is used to interconnect an outlet of each coin handling module  20 ,  120 , 220  to a successive or downstream module  20 , 120 , 220 , or to the sorting module  320  as shown in FIG.  7 A. Alternatively, two or more of the modules  20 , 120 , 220  may be connected in succession to circulate coins in an endless loop. The coin connector  400  comprises an inlet  402  shaped to mate with the outlets  52 , 134 , 250  of the modules  20 , 120 , 220 , respectively. The ramp inlet  402  can simply frictionally engage each outlet  52 , 134 , 250  for a secure connection thereto, but preferably includes resilient fingers or bite-teeth  404  for engaging a groove  430  in the module  20 , 120 , 220 . 
     The coin connector  400  includes a coin transport channel  408  which transports coins from the inlet  402  to an outlet  410 . The outlet  410  of the coin connector ramp  400  is adapted for mating connection with the inlet  22 , 122 , 222 , 322  of any other module  20 , 120 , 220 , 320  to transfer coins to the subject module. When connected between adjacent modules, the coin transport channel  400  slopes downwardly from the inlet  402  to the outlet  410 . The outlet  410  can simply frictionally mate with an inlet  20 , 120 , 220 , 320  or may include resilient bite teeth  412  which engage a groove  432  (FIGS. 1,  6 , and  9 ) on the inlet to ensure a secure connection. Alternatively, the connector outlet  410  may be vertically spaced above one of the inlets  22 , 122 , 222 , 322 , and be interconnected by a vertical tube or simply vertically aligned with the inlet. As indicated in FIGS. 1 and 4, this arrangement allows the coin connector  400  to pivot as indicated by arrow R 9 , preferably through an arc of at least approximately 300°. A pivotable connection between the coin connector  400  and the modules  20 , 120 , 220 , 320  being interconnected, allows the modules to be placed in any desired arrangement, including the aforementioned endless loop. 
     The coin transport channel  408  is adapted to receive coins in a manner where they are standing on their edges so that each received coin rolls on its edge from the region of the inlet  402  to the outlet  410 . To ensure that coins enter the channel  408  in the proper orientation for rolling, the inlet  402  comprises a coin deflector ramp  414  which slopes downwardly into the channel  408 . The ramp  414  forces coins entering the inlet  402  to be flipped or deflected onto their edges when they slide into the channel  408 . In this manner, effective and efficient transport of coins from one module  20 , 120 , 220  to another module  20 , 120 , 220 , 320  is ensured. Those of ordinary skill in the art will also recognize that the modules  20 , 120 , 220  may be connected for passage of coins therebetween or to the sorter module  320  by any other suitable ramp, tube, or simple vertical alignment therebetween without assistance from any ramp, tube, or like connector. Also, the inlet  402  of each coin connector  400  is designed to mate and communicate with the outlet  410  of another coin connector  400 . Therefore, it should be recognized that, by placing an upstream module  20 , 120 , 220  on an elevated pedestal or the like, a plurality of coin connectors  400  can be interconnected in succession for purposes of conveying coins from the upstream module  20 , 120 , 220  to a downstream module  20 , 120 , 220 , 320 . 
     The various housing members of each module  20 , 120 , 220 , 320 , and the coin connector ramps  400  are preferably secured together using a plurality of C-clips  500  as particularly illustrated in FIGS. 12A and 12B. With general reference to FIG. 12B, two housing members  502   a , 502   b  to be joined are formed so that peripheral L-shaped tabs  504   a , 504   b  respectively on each housing member  502   a , 502   b  lie adjacent or abut and form a T-shaped projection when the housing members  502   a , 502   b  are mated. Preferably, as shown in FIG. 3A, each tab  504   a , 504   b  of each housing member is formed with a central groove  506  therein. The C-clips  500  correspondingly include central nibs  510  at opposite clip ends which are received in the grooves  506  of the mated tabs  504   a , 504   b  when a clip is installed so that the T-shaped projection formed by the mating tabs is received in the open, central section  512  of the clip  500  as illustrated in FIG.  12 B. 
     The housing members joined in this manner, as generally illustrated in FIG.  12 B and as described above, include the front and rear housing members  20   f , 20   r  of the first module  20 , the front and rear housing members  142   f , 142   r  of the second module  120 , the front and rear housing members  228   a , 228   b  of the third module  220 , and the front and rear sections  420   a , 420   b  of the coin connector  400 . In this manner, a positive and secure construction is achieved without use of fasteners requiring tightening and loosening by tools. The clip  500  facilitates convenient assembly and disassembly of the relevant housing sections to increase enjoyment by an end-user. 
     Another feature that facilitates assembly of the various coin handling modules  20 , 120 , 220  is that each is preferably supported on an identical base B. The base B is illustrated individually in FIG.  13  and includes slots  600   a , 600   b  or other means for receiving and frictionally retaining the front and rear housing members of each module  20 , 120 , 220  so that the module  20 , 120 , 220  extends vertically upward from the horizontal base B. Any other suitable means may be used to secure the modules  20 , 120 , 220  to a base B. 
     An upper surface  610  of each base B includes first and second bosses  612 , 614  projecting upwardly therefrom, each adapted to rotatably support a drive gear  700  as illustrated in FIGS. 1,  4 , and  9 . A clutch member  620  projects upwardly from the surface  610  of the base B in the region of the first boss  612  and includes a first end  622  and a second end  624 . The first end  622  deflects radially inward toward the boss  612  upon application of pressure to an outer surface  626  of the clutch member. With reference now also to FIGS. 14A and 14B, a drive gear  700  formed in accordance with the present invention is illustrated and includes an upper surface  702  and a lower surface  704 . The gear  700  includes a central opening  706  for being received on the bosses  612 , 614 . A second opening  708 , spaced radially from the central opening  706 , frictionally receives a drive stem  710  (FIGS. 1,  4 ,  9 ) for gripping by a user to effect manual rotation of the gear  700 . 
     At least one and, preferably, a plurality of radial ribs  716  project downwardly from the lower surface  704  of the gear  700 . These ribs  716  are arranged, so that when a gear  700  is supported on the boss  612 , the ribs coact with the clutch member  620  to allow a unidirectional rotation of the gear  700 . In particular, as illustrated herein, upon clockwise rotation of a drive gear, as illustrated by arrow R 8  in FIG. 13, relative to the boss  612 , the ribs  716  pass the end  624  of the clutch member  620  and follow the outer surface  626  of the member  620 . The end  622  deflects radially inward to allow the ribs to travel therepast. On the other hand, the clutch member  620  includes a face or stopping surface  628  which engages the ribs  716  upon attempted counter-clockwise rotation of the gear  700 . This prevents accidental reverse operation of any of the modules  20 , 120 , 220 . Also, the base B is preferably fitted with a plurality of non-skid feet  640  (FIG. 3A) to inhibit sliding movement of the base B and associated module relative to a floor, table, counter, or other support surface. Also, as shown in FIG. 14A, each gear  700  preferably comprises a plurality of ribs  718  projecting from the upper surface  702 . The ribs  718  are similar or identical to the ribs  716  and cooperate with the clutch  620  in the same manner as the ribs  716  in the event that a user places a gear  700  on the boss  612  in an inverted manner—i.e., with the gear upper surface  702  adjacent the surface  610  of base B. 
     Each module  20 , 120 , 220  preferably utilizes one or more gears  700  to drive coin movement therethrough as described. To simplify construction by an end-user, the gears  700  are preferably conformed to be universally used at any location in any module  20 , 120 , 220  as needed. As illustrated in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the preferred gear includes peripheral spur teeth  730  which include rounded or beveled regions  732  blending or connecting with the upper gear surface  702 . Furthermore, the outermost edge of each tooth  730 , at the upper surface  702 , also comprises a smoothly rounded or radiused surface  734 . Such gear geometry facilitates driving engagement between two gears  700  whether they are co-planer or engaged such that an angle less than 180° is formed between their respective upper surfaces  702 . 
     Referring again to FIGS. 1-3A, the first coin handling module  20  comprises a plurality of preferably identical gears  700  to effect movement of the coin disc  26 , the drive-disc  32 , and the coin auger  42 . More particularly, an input gear  700   a  is rotatably supported on the base B and includes a drive stem  710  projecting upwardly out of the opening  708 . A second gear  700   b  is supported on the second boss  614  of the base B and is directly engaged or otherwise drivingly coupled with the first gear  700   a . With reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the coin auger  42  includes a lower end  48  adapted to engage the central opening  706  of the second gear  700   b  so that the auger  42  and gear  700   b  rotate together. Because the petals  36  of the drive-disc  34  are successively engaged with the auger  42 , rotation along arrow R 3  of the auger  42  causes rotation along arrow R 2  of the drive-disc  34 . As illustrated in FIG. 2, the drive-disc  34  is keyed to rotate with a third gear  700   c . The gear  700   c  is engaged with a fourth gear  700   d  which is, in turn, engaged with a fifth gear  700   e . The fifth gear  700   e  is connected to rotate with the first coin disc  26 . 
     In operation, a user grips the stem  710  and rotates the first gear  700   a  in a single direction as permitted by the clutch mechanism  620 . Rotation of the first gear  700   a  causes rotation of the second gear  700   b  and auger  42 . Rotation of the auger  42  drives the drive-disc  34  through the petals  36  which, in turn, drives the coin disc  26  through the gear train  700   c - 700   e . The horizontal orientation of the input gear  700   a  inhibits accidental tipping of the module  20  when a user manually rotates the gear  700   a.    
     Referring to FIGS. 4-6, it is shown that the second module  120  likewise preferably utilizes plural like gears  700  to effect rotation of the discs  126   a , 126   b , 126   c . In particular, a first or input gear  700   f  is rotatably secured on the first boss  612  and includes the projecting input stem  710  for manual rotation thereof. A second gear  700   g  is not mounted on the boss  614 , but is rotatably mounted on an angled adapter  740  which is affixed to the rear housing member  142   r . The second gear  700   g  is also engaged with a third gear  700   h  which is connected to rotate with the first coin transfer disc  126   a . The third gear  700   h  is also engaged with a fourth, co-planar gear  700   i  which drives the second coin transfer disc  126   b . Finally, the fourth gear  700   i  is engaged with a fifth, co-planar gear  700   j  which drives the third coin transfer disc  126   c.    
     With reference to FIGS. 7 and 9, the third module  220  also utilizes plural gears  700  to effect the reciprocation of the coin indexing member  230 . More particularly, a first gear  700   k  is rotatably supported by the first boss  612  of the base B for uni-directional manual rotation via stem  710 . A second gear  700   l  is mounted to an angle adapter  740  and is engaged with the first gear  700   k . The second gear is also engaged with a third gear  700   m  which is rotatably mounted to a boss  750  on the inner surface of the housing first member  228   a . A follower or drive stud  752  projects outwardly from the opening  708  in the third gear  700   m  and is slidably received in an angled cam slot  232  formed in the coin indexing member  230 . The coin indexing member  230  is supported for reciprocation R 7  relative to the housing member  228   b  via bosses  236   a , 236   b  received respectively in angled slots  234   a , 234   b  of the indexing member  230 . Accordingly, rotation of the first gear  700   k  results in rotation of the second and third gear  700   l , 700   m . Rotation of the third gear  700   m  results in reciprocation of the indexing member  230  due to engagement of the stud  752  with the angled cam slot  232 . The slots  234   a , 234   b  limit the amount of reciprocal movement of the indexing member  230 . 
     It is preferable, though not mandatory, that the coin inlets  22 , 122 , 222 , 322  of the modules  20 , 120 , 220 , 320  be located at an equal height H 1  (FIG. 3A) above a common support surface such as a floor or table. Likewise, it is preferable that the outlets  52 , 134 , 250  be located at an equal height H 2 , which is greater than the height H 1 . 
     All of the modules  20 , 120 , 220 , 320 , the base B, gears  700 , connectors  400 , and other components described herein are preferably manufactured from a conventional molded plastic, and most preferably from clear or transparent molded plastic so that the passage of coins through each module is readily observable. 
     The invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments. Obviously, modifications and alterations will occur to others upon reading and understanding the preceding specification. It is intended that the invention be construed as including all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof.

Technology Classification (CPC): 6