How do vending machines distinguish coins?

The vending machine is an audiovisual device that seems very modern but in fact, the idea of ​​it dates back to . 1st century AD.

The most primitive vending machines have also appeared in the UK since 1615 and until 1867, the fully automatic vending machine was officially created by Simeon Denham (British).

Although not a new invention, but have you ever wondered how these sales machines work? The following is the answer.

1. After inserting a coin into the machine, this metal block will pass through a light sensor to measure the size .

Light sensor measures coin size.

2. Next, the coin goes through an electromagnet to measure the metal composition . That is the reason that coins come in many shapes and are made from a variety of metals.

Electromagnet determines the metal component of the coin.

3. After identifying the coin, the machine automatically arranges the coin into its correct column.Counterfeit coins will be transferred to denial slots.

After that, the machine automatically arranges coins in each par value column.

4. If there is excess money ? The machine will automatically calculate to withdraw coins from out and return columns. This is the reason that vending machines often accept only some types of change.

The machine automatically calculates the withdrawal of coins to pay if there is excess money.

5. So if the item you bought is stuck? The infrared ray sensor near the door will confirm if any item is taken out or not. Otherwise, the coin will be returned to you.

Infrared rays at the door will confirm whether any items are taken out or not.

More specifically, readers can view the following video:

Operation mechanism of vending machines.