Importance

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Abstract

A manual currency operated vending machine includes a mechanism for preventing customers from depositing a currency into the vending machine when the machine is out of product. The vending machine comprises two parallel vertical magazines for containing flat packages and tubular packages. A currency operated dispensing mechanism includes a currency operating knob connected to a blocking mechanism through a rotatable shaft. The blocking mechanism is positioned at the bottom of each magazine for supporting the articles and preventing them sliding out, and also for allowing the lowest article out of the magazine and into a trough at the vending opening slot. When the currency operating knob is turned, it allows a currency to be deposited into the vending machine. The knob turns the rotatably shaft which in turn moves the blocking mechanism into an unobstructed position allowing the lowest article out of the magazine and into the trough at the vending opening slot. At the same time, the magazine supports the remaining articles thereto. When the knob is further turned, it moves back to its initial position, thereby blocking the next product from being dispensed. The currency operated dispensing mechanism also has a spring-biased blocking member located at the top of the mechanism and when depressed blocks a passageway and prevents a currency from being deposited into the vending machine.

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First Claim