CA2265244C - Token having predetermined optical characteristics - Google Patents

Abstract

A token for use with a token operated device includes a plurality of predetermined optical characteristics. The plurality of predetermined optical characteristics are disposed in a substantially radially symmetrical manner with respect to the token, and each of the optical characteristics have the property of a facet wherein an effective surface normal of said facet is a line along a predetermined vector angle with an elevational angle ranging preferably between 30°
and 60° An azimuthal angle of the facet surface is other than substantially along a radial line of the token or substantially along a line tangent to an annular ring centered on the token such that a token operated device can validate the predetermined optical characteristics substantially independent of token orientation. A token testing apparatus includes a chute defined by a field adjustable pair of spaced token edge guides spaced a predetermined distance from each other such that each token passing through the chute is sensed along its center.

Description

TOI~1~ I~AVII~1G PREDETERMINEI? OF'CICAL CHARACTERISTICS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to token validation devices wherein the term "token" is intended to mean metal currency, coins, metal and non-metallic tokens or a combination thereof which function as a substitute for valid coins or currency, transparent or opaque tokens or a combination thereof, disk shapes being preferable, and inclusive in the term "token" is virtually any element used as a form of currency oc as a substitute therefore.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The variety of "genuine" coins utilized in the marketplace is extremely diverse because each, government makes an attempt to keep their own form of currency or value of exchange unique enough to distinguish from that issued by others.
"Genuine" tokens utilized in the marketplace are also diverse for the same reason.
namely, to allow one specific proprietor to distinguish its genuine tokenltokens from tie token/tokens of another. Such tremendous diversity in genuine coins and genuine tokens. indirectly pressures manufacturers, be they governments or private individuals, to produce coin and token validation devices which are designed flexible enough so that they may be field configured to accept and validate (or invalidate) the widest possible variety of coins or tokens, genuine or counterfeit. To that. end, the body of validation design knowledge and products are replete with methods for dealing with different metallurgies and sues of coins. However, with- the combination of increased world travel and increasing number of issuing establishments, particularly gaming casinos, there has become an ever increasing need for additional distinguishable characteristics to prevent cross-play of unwanted, though genuine, tokens, and the total accurate elimination of counterfeits. The ability of simple combinations of useful alloys and token sizes to satisfy the needs of the casino market has long been exhausted.
DESCRI PTION OF RELATED ART
To address the market need for more distinguishable tokens, there have been two noteworthy developments in token fabrication technology. First, tokens with minted optical codes, such as those disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,046,841 and 5,216,234, have been marketed for use with coin validation devices capable of reading such optical codes. Second is the development of bimetallic and trimetallic tokens in which an inner metal disk portion of the token is made of one metal/alloy which differs from the metal/alloy of one or more outer annular rings, as described in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,094,922 and 5,630,288. While mufti-metal tokens have long since made their debut in the marketplace, they have been primarily produced for ease of visual discrimination via the use of two differently colored metals.
Although inductive sensing has long been used to validate metallic tokens of all types, there has been little done to take advantage of the mufti-signature nature of mufti-metal tokens.
In order to make minted optical codes practical, it is required that minted reflective facets be distributed in an annular band that is substantially radially orientation independent of token orientation so that tokens may be deposited in the coin validator without concern for radial orientation. The latter is disclose, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 5,046,841. However, this distribution causes the relative angular relationship of minted facets presented to an associated optical code reader of the validator, as the coin passes the optical code reader, to be dependent on the lateral offset of the coin path relative to optical code reader position.
It can be mathematically shown that the token path with the least sensitivity to small variations in lateral offset is the token path which is centered on the optical code reader. In other words, the optimum token path of the token is the one wherein the center of the token is guided by the coin chute to pass over the center of the optical code reader.
Similarly, in the case of mufti-metal tokens, it is likewise true that the optimum path of token travel to take full advantage of the inductive signatures of the individual metal/metal alloy components arranged in concentric annular bands with respect to an associated token would be the one where the center of the token is guided by the coin chute to pass over the center of the inductive sensor and wherein the inductive sensor is physically small enough so that separate responses can be generated with respect to different metal alloy areas of the token. Accordingly, no matter the specifics of the sensors, be they inductive, light-sensitive (reflective or transmissive), or both, maximum sensitivity and accuracy is achieved when sensing is centered on a center line of a token path defined by the movement of the token center therealong.
Thus, apart from the present disclosure, the importance of controlling the path of the token to ensure sensing is substantially coincident with the path of the token center lacks disclosure in known prior art, including not only the latter-noted patents, but such disclosures as found in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,437,558; 4,441,602;
4,488,116;
4,601,380; 4,705,154; 3,596,744; 4,448, 297; 5,293,980 and 5,439,089. Such patents disclose inductive sensors having a fixed reference relative to an edge of an associated token or coin which is forced against an edge of an associated chute or a chute which is fully encompassed/surrounded by a wound coil which automatically dismisses from consideration the lateral position of an associated token moving along the chute.
In addition to the issue of precise token sensing and the location of token sensors with respect to token travel, the present disclosure also resolves potential problems associated with purely annular or radial facets of the type disclosed in U.S.
Patent No. 5,046,841 and 5,216,234. Counterfeit tokens or counterfeit coins (slugs) can be produced with annular or radial facets by, for example, using a cutting tool and a common lathe to cut annular rings into the surface of a metal disk (slug) or by pressing a softer metal disk (such as a lead disk) into the surface of a "valid" or "genuine" coin or token and produce a mirror image of the annular facets thereof.
Although a mirror image is created by the latter "counterfeit" pressing operation, symmetrical facet structures will in most cases produce mirror image facets that are the same as the original.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a novel and unobvious validation device having adjustable guide edges for selectively adjusting the width of an associated token chute to adapt the validation device for use with a wide variety of different token diameters such that the position of associated sensors are maintained substantially fixed along the center of the token chute and the center of the token passing therethrough. This arrangement provides for configuration flexibility in the field and the ability to optimally and reliability sense properties of the tokens that are substantially radially symmetrically disposed about the tokens.
Furthermore, the tokens include facets having skewed orientations that are other than 0° or 90° relative to a radial line which essentially eliminates the possibility of making counterfeit faceted tokens on a lathe or by pressing a soft metal against a valid token. Moreover, such facets are additionally arc-shaped or curved along their length relative to a chord associated with each facet. Accordingly, the combination of sensor location along token center travel and specifically angled, skewed and arc-shaped token facets virtually preclude simple forms of counterfeiting and assures repetitive and reliable validation.
In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the sensors are desirable fixed relative to a token chute through which tokens travel with each token center travelling along a center line of a path of travel coincident with sensor detection. Preferably, sensors are located on the line of travel of the token center at opposite sides of the token chute as either optical sensors, inductive sensors, or pairs thereof which allow the detection of tokens having one or more annular bands of skewed facet optical codes and/or one or more bands of differing metal alloys.
Thus, tokens travelling through the token chute can be accurately sensed optically and/or inductively.
Preferably, the plurality of facets associated with each token have the property of a facet wherein the effective surface normal of the facet is aligned along a predetermined vector angle with an elevation angle preferably between 30° and 60°
and an azimuthal angle other than substantially along a radial line of the token or substantially along a line tangent to an annular ring centered on the token.
Irrespective of the precise optical characteristics or the angles of the facets, each facet lies in an annular band substantially along a chordal line of the token with each facet being curved or arc-shaped with respect to its associated chordal line.
The validation device or apparatus includes a token chute having edge guides spaced a predetermined distance from each other corresponding substantially to the diameter of a token passing through the chute. The latter structure ensures that each token center moves along a path substantially one-half the distance between the edge guides. First token characteristic sensing means and/or second token characteristic sensing means are provided for sensing respective first and second token characteristics during token movement along the token path. The sensing means sense each token substantially along the token center whereby on-axis or on-center token sensing is effected. The latter sensing means are located on one side or both sides of the token chute, and the distance between the edge guides is changed by moving the edge guides toward each other without changing the point of token sensing, namely, along the center line of the centered token path of travel. Preferably, one of the first token characteristic sensing means senses an optical property of the token and the other of the token characteristic sensing means senses an inductive property of the token.
The token testing or validating device of the present invention also includes means for adjusting the thickness of the chute to accommodate testing tokens, coins or the like of different thicknesses.
The validation or testing apparatus of the present invention also includes opposite walls defining the chute of which at least one wall is constructed from transparent material, one of the sensing means includes a light source for emitting light toward a token passing through the chute, and the transparent wall includes an in-situ formed lens for directing light rays at a predetermined angle toward light-sensing means to thereby detect optical characteristic of associated tokens.
The token testing/validation device preferably includes one or more light sources, lenses and light-sensing means at each of opposite sides of the chute, and the sensing means can be selectively located to detect different optical characteristics (different codes) of different tokens.
In further accordance of the invention, a circuit is provided which is responsive to associated sensors for generating an acceptance output signal through a plurality of conductor pins of a circuit board. In order to facilitate direct interface of the token acceptor to a variety of token operated devices, such as slot machines, vending machines ete., provision is made within the token acceptor enclosure to include one of a variety of electric plug conversion adapters, each of which plug onto the plurality of conductor pins, and each of which provide a second connector specific to the needs of one of the token operated devices.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIGURE 1 is a top plan view of a token constructed in accordance with this invention, and illustrates two annular code areas or surfaces each provided with a plurality of skewed and arc-shaped facets therein.
FIGURE 2 is an enlarged cross sectional view taken through the center or axis of the token of Figure 1, and illustrates opposite faces with the two annular code surfaces shown in Figure 1 being replicated in a lower face of the token of Figure 2.
FIGURE 3 is a top plan view of another token constructed in accordance with this invention, and illustrates a central circular disk formed from a metallic alloy, an annular metallic ring having a plurality of skewed and arc-shaped facets therein, an annular ring of transparent material having a plurality of arc-shaped facets therein, and an outermost annular metallic alloy ring.
FIGURE 4 is an enlarged cross sectional view taken through the axis of the token of Figure 3, and illustrates the various component thereof including facets in both upper and lower faces of the innermost two annular rings of the token.
FIGURE 5 is a top plan schematic view of the token of Figure 1, and illustrates a protective guard bead between the pair of annular bands of facets to provide protection thereof.
FIGURE 6 is an enlarged axial cross sectional view taken through the axis of the token of Figures 1 and 5, and illustrates the relationship of the guard beads to the facets of the token.
FIGURE 7 is a highly enlarged fragmentary cross sectional view taken through adjacent facets of any of the tokens of Figures 1-6, and illustrates details thereof.
FIGURE 8 is a schematic fragmentary view of a geometrical layout of a token and a single annular facet band, and diagrammatically illustrates the geometry associated with laying out and fabricating the facets in the annular band.

FIGURE 9 is a front perspective view of a novel validation device or apparatus for testing tokens in accordance with the present invention, and illustrates a token positioned for descent through a chute formed between opposite pivotally connected front and rear housings of the validation device.
FIGURE 10 is a rear perspective view of the token testing apparatus of Figure 9, and illustrates the rear housing carrying a rear circuit board/sensing housing, a coil for actuating a gate, an opening in a metallic mounting plate of the rear housing, a pivotally mounted spring-biased cam and a cam surface portion of the front housing projecting through the opening to release token jamming, and a step adjustment mechanism between the front and rear housings for accommodating tokens of different thicknesses.
FIGURE I I is an exploded perspective view of the token testing apparatus of the invention, and illustrates a transparent cover exposing a rear circuit board of the rear housing carrying a light source, light sensing means and a sensing coil adjacent a transparent token chute-defining wall, a similar transparent token chute-defining wall of the front housing having focusing lens and a pair of interchangeable edge guides for adapting the token testing apparatus for testing tokens of different diameters.
FIGURE 12 is an exploded perspective view of the token testing apparatus, and illustrates interiors of both the rear housing and the front housing, a main circuit board carried by the front housing carrying a light source, light sensors and a sensing coil, and a transparent front cover which is slidably removed from and applied to the front housing.
FIGURE 13 is a top plan view of the token testing apparatus, and in phantom outline illustrates the manner in which the front housing can be pivoted away from the rear housing to gain access to the interior of the token testing apparatus.
FIGURE 14 is a cross sectional view taken generally along line 14-14 of Figure 13, and illustrates light sensors and inductive sensors carried by the front and rear s circuit boards, and curved lenses of the transparent chute-defining walls for focusing light rays to scan token facets as a token drops through the token chute.
FIGURE 15 is a highly enlarged cross sectional view taken generally along line 15-15 of Figure 13, and illustrates the location of the light source, light sensors, lens and the inductive sensor or coil essentially along a token path center line defining the center of the token/coin chute along which travels the axis of each token guided during its descent by the opposite edge guides of the token chute.
FIGURE 16 is a fragmentary front elevational view of a light and inductive sensing area of the main or front circuit board with the construction of the rear circuit board sensing area being identical, and illustrates a light source carried by a light source holder and a pair of detectors carried by a pair of identical detector holders fit into a substantially circular opening of the circuit board.
FIGURE 17 is a perspective view of one of several identical light source and detector or sensor holders, and illustrates the generally pie-shaped or wedge-shaped configuration thereof.
FIGURE 18 is a highly enlarged cross sectional view taken generally along line 18-18 of Figure 15, and illustrates the manner in which light rays are focused by lens upon and reflected by lens from facets of the token for sensing/validating the same depending upon specific facet or code parameters.
FIGURE 19 is a fragmentary perspective view of a portion of the main circuit board, and illustrates a plurality of conductor pins thereof to which can be selectively plugged any one of several electrical converter plugs to accommodate the testing of a specific token associated with a specific acceptor mechanism, such as a specific.
casino slot machine of a specific manufacturer to accommodate the required physical and electrical connector interface associated with a specific brand or style of slot machine or vending machine.

FIGURE 20 is a simplified electrical schematic, and illustrates a circuit for testing tokens and activating a gate relay to pass validated/accepted tokens along an "accept" path of the token testing apparatus.
FIGURE 21 is a schematic perspective view of another validation device, and illustrates a pair of pivotally connected front and rear housings with the front housing carrying slidably adjustable token guides spaced a maximum distance from each other.
FIGURE 22 is a schematic perspective view of another validation device, and illustrates a pair of pivotally connected front and rear housings with the front housing carrying slidably adjustable token guides spaced a minimum distance from each other.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
A novel token constructed in accordance with this invention is illustrated in Figures l, 2, 5, 6 and 7 of the drawings and is generally designated by the reference numeral 10.
The term "token" is used predominantly herein to mean genuine or valid metal currency, coins, metallic and/or nonmetallic tokens or disks or a combination thereof of the same or different alloys, or transparent or opaque tokens or a combination thereof which are a substitute for valid coins or currency, such as tokens used in casino slot machines or at gaming tables, or for car washes, automotive parking area gate opening acceptors, etc. Such "genuine" tokens are ofttimes counterfeited, thus at times herein the term "token" might well mean a counterfeit coin or counterfeit tokens, slugs of all kinds, and virtually any element used as a form of counterfeit currency. The context will clearly distinguish between a "genuine" token and a "counterfeit" token. Accordingly, the intent is that of not only providing a "genuine"
token which can be readily, accurately and repetitively verified as such, but essentially cannot be easily reproduced and can be accurately distinguished from "counterfeit"
tokens. Hawever, throughout this disclosure the token 10 and other tokens disclosed to heroin will be described str<rcturally and in te~ws crf° ~ orification in the sense of being a "genuine" token.
The token 10 of Figures I and 2 is preferably made from metallic or metallic alloy material and is tlerei:ore totally opaque, and an outermost circumferential or peripheral surface 1 I imparts a circular or disk-iikc° ~,onfaguration to tlnc~~ overall token 10. Opposite generally circular faces or surfaces 12, 1:3 of the token 10 define therebetween an innermost central circular portion 1~ having a center or axis A which also defines the center A of the overall tokc:o I (>, an int~~;rmost annular portion or band 15, a next innermost annular pardon or band 1 (i, arzci an outermost annular portion or band 17. The circular portion 14 and the annular band 17 at each of the opposite faces 12, 13 lack any type of surface car~figurations which are specifically designed for detection/verification, although these surfaces can in~;lud~~ desired indicia, such as the value of the token, the name/address of the "'owner" thereof, such as a particular casino, the manufacturer, etc.
In keeping with the present invLntiot~, the token 10 includes in each of the annular portions, surfaces or bands 15, 1 ~~ as l~ll~rality of means I 8, I ~, respectively, in the form of reflective facets with each facet 18, 1 ~) laeing defined by surfaces S 1, S2 (Figure 7) with each facet being inclined at substantially .~5°{~2°) relative to the faces or surfaces 12, 13 and/or tc> a line Fl p~rpc~txdicul~~r to the faces ar surfaces 12, 13.
Each included facet corner Fc defirned between adjacent surfaces S1, S2 includes a maximum radius of .005" and the distance d between adjacent facet corners Fc is 0.020" minimum and 0.025" maximum. ~I"he surfaces S 1, S2 are polished to 2 or better. Preferably the facet corners Fc defined by adjacent facet surfaces S1, S2 lie below a plane taken through the surt~ices or faces I2, I 3, and preferably an annular protective guard bead 2U (Figures 5 and 6) is located between the annular bands 1 S, 16 with a plane through the; uppermost surtac~:° (unm.trr~bered) c>f the guard bead 20 lying in the corresponding plane of the surface I 2, 13. '~fh~, guard beads 20 thereby protect the highly polished surfaces S1, S2 of the facets 18, 19 preventing abrasion, marring, dings, ete. Tlne guard bes:tds 2f) c»n oppcrositt faces 12, 13 oi"
the token L0 also physically separate the annular bands 1 ~, 1 (i ~>uch that the fac;et,a 18, 19 of the respective a~tnular bands 1 '~, 16 can bo r~;aclily dist;irigi~is~~cd.
Each facet 18 or 19 is specifically or~i~;ntcd with respect to a radial line AB
(Figure 8) emanating frorrr the center A of the token I0 and a line EF (Figure 8) intersecting AB at point X of the particular band {l6 in Figure 8) under consideration. The radial line AB and the line h,F dotinc an included angle 0 of 15° increments as measured in a clockwise direction relative to the radial line AB. The angle 0 in Figure 8 is approximately ti()'' [ 15t'x 4 (multiple] =
60°]. This orients each facet in skewed relation;~l7ih to the r~:rdial line AB. In other words, none of the facets 18 or 19 lip cipori an;y radial line. AB of the token 10, but instead are in substantially tangentisrl relationship tca a chord of the token 10, which chord corresponds to the angular° orirr~tati~>r~ 01~ the line EF.
However, in accordance with the invention. ouch facet is not only skewed relative to radial line AB of the token 10, l.3ut the clrc>rd<al rolationshil~ along the line EF
is also curved or arc-shaped along a curved line or arc Ci-El which passes through the center point X of the band 16. In order to obtain flue curved or ar°c-shaped line G-FI, a line I>C is drawn normal to thc. line; EF passing through the center point X
and an arc AC is then drawn with the centor point ?~as the radius. 'I~he point C of intersection of the lines DC ", AC' becomes tln: axis for t:ho arc-shaped Line or curve G-H which passes through the center 1>c~ir~t X of tlrc band 16. 'Thus, a (~0° skewed (chordal) facet is defrned substantially along the ~;horci line EF but is also arc-shaped or curved along tyre curvod o~° arc-sh~rpod line G-H. Tllis produces a single facet, and the token 10 must there ~>e repositioned for fabricating the next succeeding facets by rotating the tokon about it axis A Lay a rotation angle RA
defined by the equation:
~tA ~ Tan' t d (AX)(cos8) 1?

where d is the perpendicular distance between adjac~;znt facet corners or peaks Fc (Figure 7) and AX is the length along the radius R or the radial line AB
between the token center A and the center hoizzt ~ ~:zf~ the azanul~~r band 1 G.
The peak to peak perpendicular facet distance d must be chosen so that 36()° is evenly divisible by the rotati«n angle (ItA). rl'hus, no matter whether the facets 18 are formed in tl~e annular band 15 or t:he facets 19 are f-orrned in the annular band 16, as just described, characteristic c~f all c>f t;he facets l8, 19 is their skewed (chordai) orientation disposed substantially along a chord which is also curved with respect to an arc 1>assing through a c.e.ntcr point X midway between the inner and outer diameters, di and do, respectively (Figure 8), csf the specific annular band involved.
Reference is made to another token 10' c:zfA Figures 3 and 4 which has identical though primed reference numerals applied thereto to identify structure corresponding to that heretofore d~scr~ibed relative° to the token 10.
However, the token 10' is constructed nat as a one-piece metallic alloy token, such as the token of Figures l, 2, S, 6 and 7, but instead an innerzvnost central circular portion 14' is a disk of metal or metal alloy surrounded by another annular band 15' of metal (opaque) material, which in turn is surrounded lay a to°ansparent anroular band 16' of plastic material and iz~ turn is surrounded by an annular band 17' of metallic material or a metallic alloy which dit'Fers in its inductive signature from that of the metallic disk 14'. As will be noted further herein, the metallic alloy disk 14' and the annular band 1.7' azre inboard of an outernnost peripheral surface 11' and can be sensed/tested inductively whereas the annular bands 15', 16' can be tested or sensed optically reflectively (opaqLZe) az~td optically trarzsmissive (transparent), respectively, while the metallic allay annular band 1 S' can also be sensed inductively. However, the respectively opaque rznd transparent facets 18', 19' are constructed in accordance with the description of the fabricatian of the facets heretofore described specil"ically relative to l;igur~; 8.

As may be appreciated from the foregoing descriptions, there are numerous possible code ~onfiguratii~txs ~aazd e:.t~ak>c>di~nents possible based upon relative location of the bands, number of annular bands, skew angle of facets in the bands or metal composition of the bands, and implementation of the facets, be they reflective, refractive, or diffractive.
A novel apparatus or device for testing and/or validating tokens, such as the tokens 10, 10" or the equivalent thereof, is bully illustrated in Figures 9-19 of the drawings, and is gener°ally identii'ii:d by the reference numeral 50. The token testing apparatus or validation device 50 includes a rear housing 51 (Figures and 10) and a front housing 101 (Figi:~r~ 1 l }.
The rear housing 51 includes a main mounting and support plate 52 (Figures 9-12) constructed from relatively rigid though bendable metallic material which includes a relativel y pi:~6ygotxal i>r rectangular rear wall having formed therein a sduare or polygonal opening 54 (Figure 12), thereabove a generally polygonal opening 55 having am arcuate surface or edge 56, a rectangular opening 5'7 (Figure 12), and ~~ narrow inclic~ed rectangular opening 5$ (Figures 10-12). The support plate 52 includes laterally spaced side walls 61, 62 bent into generally parallel relationship and with the side wall 62 being further bent at upper and lower ends (Figure. 12) into flanges 63, 64 having identical pivot pin receiving opec~ings 65. 'l he side walls 61, 62 also include three identical threaded cspenings 6(w through 6fi (Figure 12) into any two of which can be threaded screws 70, 71 (Figure 10). The screws 70, 71 are shown threaded into the respective threaded openings 67, 6$ of each side wall (il, which adapts the token testing apparatus or token validation device 50 to be snap-fit into bayonet slots (not shown) of a compatible bracket of a token operated device (also not shown), such as a casino slot machine. T'he bayonet slots of such a casino slot machine permit the validation device 50 to be readily snapped into and removi;d from the k~r<~cke't. Brackets for divfTerent token operated devices typically have slots located pit two of the three different positions, thus the reason for the three threaded opc;nings 66-68 in each of the side walls Gl, 62. The screws 7~, for exar~il~le, cats be removed from the threaded openings 6'7 and then can be threaded into the openings 6(i to accommodate the validation device 50 far t,rtilization with a different slot machine with a bracket having differently spaced bayonet slots.
An upper edge portion 72 c~f the support plat. 52 is bent outwardly and in part defines an entrance opening () at the trap of the validation device 50 (Figures 9 and 10) through which the token 1 U (F igvre 9), for exsumple, can be insertedldropped for travel along a generally ver~:ical token path of travel identified by the vertical headed arrow P in Figu~°es 12 and 15. The center A of the token 1!) is guided ip7 a manner' to be described hereinafter substantially centered along the token path of travel P and the token path of travel P lies substantially along the centers of optical and indt:~ctive sensing means with such accurate movement of the token 1 U along the path P being control led by a pair of guide edges or guide ribs ( 1 1'?~ 1 13~ 1~ 14 1:3 I .in Figure 11) 'which are in turn spaced from each other a distance substantially that of the token diameter, as will be described more fully hereinafter. Counterfeit tokens descending along the token path of travel P are sensed not to be valid, strike a plurality of gate fingers 73 of a pivotally mounted gate 74 which project through the rectangular opening 58, and are angulated or inclined to deflect ir~v<~lid/countei°feit tokens to the right, as viewed in Figure 12, along the dots dash headed arrow associated therewith. "f'he gate 74 is pivotally moGtnted to a bracket 75 which is in turn connected to the rear wall 53 of the support plate 52. The pivotally mounted gate 74 is biased by a spring 7ci to the p~asition shown in Figures 1~) and 12 with the fingers 73 thereof projecting through the opening S8 and into the token path of travel P to deflect invalid, fraudulent and/or i:ount~:rfeit tokens or coins to the right, again as viewed in F~ figure 1'?. l:-(owever, upon the sensing of a valid token or coin 10, through appropriate sensing means, circuitry, etc. to be described hereinafter, a coil 77 secured to the 1°acket 75 is e~a~:rgized and draws the gate 74 against the bias of the spring 76 pivoting the gate fingers 73 out of the token path of travel P and valid/genuine toketas 10 cantinue vertical descent therealong into an appropriate receptacle (not spawn) of the acceptor mechanism (slot machine or the like).
A rear sensing and circuit hauling 80 is constructed of transparent plastic material and includes a bottom wall 81 (higures 1'? arid 14) of which a rectangular portion 82 is ~tlignLd with the rectangula3T opening 57 (:Figure l2) of the rear wall 53. A peripheral wall 83 of the rear sensing and circuit housing has oppositely directed flanges 84 4tnd 85 (Figure 1 1 ) for matingly, slidingly engaging opposite side channels (not shown) of a transparent cover 86 which can be removed from the position shown in Figures 9 and 10 by simply sliding the cover 86 upwardly to the position shown in Figure 11 and vice versa. A
circuit board 90 (Figures 1 1 and 14) is supported in substantially spaced parallel relationship to the transparent bottom wall 81, and tl~~ circuit board 90 carries first token characteristic sensing means ~) 1 (Figures 1 l , 12 and 14) for sensing a first token characteristic during token movcm~t~t along the token path P and second token characteristic sensing means 92 for sensing a second token characteristic during token movement along the token path P. The first sensing means 91 includes an optical sensing system which includes as part thereof in situ lens means 93 (Figures 12 and 14) attd a plot°ality of optical element holder detents 249 arcuately spaced 15'~ f'rorrt each otlt~;t~ in ~t "sunburst"
pattern in situ molded during the molding of the, housing 8() irt tl~~ rectangular portion 82 of the bottom wall 81 thereof. The rectangular pro°tion 82 of the bottom wall 81 also has integrally in situ molded therein a sllallc-~w cylindrical cup-shaped recess 94 (Figure 14) in which bottoms or seats the second token characteristic sensing means 92 which is a conventional inductive sensing coil. The specifics of the circuit board 90, the sensing nmnts 91, 92 attd the lens 93 will be described more fully hereinafter.
l li The bottom wall X31 (hfigure 12) alsr.~ iraclu~:l~s four relatively narrow parallel ribs 96 (Figures 12 and 13) which project into and through the rectangular opening 57 (Figure 1"~) and are essentially in parallel relationship to the token path of travc;l f. Thu ribs ~)(~ hr~c>vid~ n~inirnal contact with each token during its descent and prevent scr.at~l'ing caf the c~htical surfaces by the passing token.
The front houSlilg 1 () 1 is constructed substantially entirely from transparent material and includes a front wall 102 (Figures 1 1, 14 <~nd 15), and a peripheral wall 103 including opposite vertical side walls (unnumbered) having oppositely directed flanges ( 104, 9 (l~) which sliclab:ly mate with channels (unnumbered) of a transparent front c:ovc~r 1 ()fa i F~ figures 9, 10, 1 1, 12 and 14) which can be removed by sliding upwardly from or reinserted by sliding downwardly upon the flanges 104, 1 ()S. An upper rearwardly projecting portion 107 of the front cover 106 includes a tapering slcat or groove 10$ and two rearwardly projecting lingers 110, 111 wlvic:la are in generally parallel relationship to each other. With the transparent cower 106 closing the front housing 101, the projecting fingers 1 10, 1 I 1 thereof are in overlying protective relationship to uppermost end portions (urat~umb~;red) of tile respective token edge guides or ribs 11~, 113 1',Figurc I l,).. The distance between the ribs 112, 113 establishes the maximum diameter of a token 10 which can pass through the validation device 50 when the housings 51, 1 () 1 are closed relative to each other, as, is illustrated in Figures 9, 10, I3 and 14 of the drawings. The front housing 101 is preferably pivotally secured to the rear housing 51 by identical screws 114 (Figures 10 and 1 1 ) passing through the openings 65 c>f the flanges 63, 64 and threaded into threac:led openings 11 S (Figxrre 12) in upper and lower corner walls (unnumbered) of the peripheral wall 103. A spring 116 (Figures 11-13) is conventionally secured to the rear wall 53 (Figure 12) of the rear housing 51 and by a screw I 17 ( F~ figure l l ) to the 1'r-ont wall 10~! of the front housing 101 which normally l~alds tlm housings ~ 1, 1 t) 1 closed (F~ figures 9, 10, 13 and 14), though pivoting movement to an open position, as shown in phantom outline in Figure 13, for inspection arid t~.o relieve token jamming is readily accommodated.
The entire front housing 1 () 1, excluding khe front cover 1 Of> and a circuit board 190, is of a one-piece molded plastic construction, preferably copolymeric/polymeric synthetic plastic material, such as. transparent polycarbonate. Integrally molded as part of the overall front housing 101 and principally the front wall 102 thereok are tc»~r generally parallel ribs 196 (Figures 11 and 15), an inclined rectangular recevs 1 58 (Figures 11, 1.4 and 15), a wall portion 118 having a cam or jamming ~sr.irfa~~; 12C>, lens means or lens 193, a circular cylindrical cup-sllap~;d recess 194 (Iaigures 11, 14 and 15) and slots or recesses 122 (Figures I I mad 1 '~) in the token edge guides 112, 113.
The parallel ribs 96, 196 are vertically aligned in opposing spared pairs, and defined therebetween is a token chute TC' (Figures 13-15) extending vertically downwardly from the opening O along which the tokens 10 pass daring sensing, detection, validation and sorting (acceptance%rejection).
It is highly desirable to alter a variety of the physical characteristics of the validation device 50 in the field, as for example, changing the width W
(Figure 15) of the token chute TC, as measured normal to the guide ribs 112, 113, and the depth or thickness 'f (Figure 14) of the token chute TC, as a measurement of the space between the ribs 9fi, l96 to ,t~ccommodate coins/tokens 10 of different thicknesses.
As is best illustrated in Figures 11 and 1:.4 of the drawings, chute width changing means 130 are provided for changing to; perpendicular distance between the edge guides 1 12, 113 while a the same time maintaining the center of token path P of the token chute '1'C" centered on sensing means 91, 92, 191 and 192. In Figure 15 the normal distance between the edge guides 112, 113 corresponds to the maximum diameter of' a token 10 which can pass along the token chute TC and be essentially guided by the edge guides 112, 1 13. In Figure 15 a relatively small diameter token 10 is illustrated and if unguided the same would not fall with its center A maintained substantially coincident to the path P
because its peripheral edge 11 would not contact the edge guides 112, 113.
However, by utilizing the chute width changing means 130, the width or distance W can be changed and specifically changed equal distances from each of the ribs 112, 113 so that no matter the diameter of the taken 10 its center A will at all times descend along and in coincidence with the center line path of travel P
of the token which, of course, lies alang the centers of° sensing of the sensing means 91, 92 and 191, I 92.
The chute width changing means 130 is in the farm of equally sized edge guides members, ribs or bars 131 ~Figur~e 11 j of arae-piece injection molded polymeric/copolymeric synthetic plastic material each having pairs of connecting bars or fastening detents 132 opposite; guide surfaces 133 af' the guide ribs 131.
Since the width of the guide ribs 131 aafe the saraae, when each guide rib 131 snap-secured with its fastening; detents 132 in th~~ slats 122, the width W of the token chute TC (Figure 15) is reduced identical distances tram each side and thus each guide surface 133 is spaced an identical distance from the token sensing center line or taken path P and sensing again will occur along the taken center A
as the token 10 descends through the token chute ~I'C. In Figure 1 S, a pair of the guide ribs 131 are illustrated in phantom outline snap-secured by the fastening detents 132 in the slots 122 of the guide ribs 112, I 13. "This places the guide ribs or guide bars 131 with their opposing guide surfaces 133 a distance Wt from each other which corresponds to the di<rmeter of t:he token 10 illustrated in Figure 15.
Each of the guide surfaces 133 is, of caurs~:, spaced substantially the exact distance from the token center line path al' travel P, and thus the token IU
will descend with its peripheral edge 1 I contiguous the guide surfaces 133, 133 as a consequence of which its center A is in ccaincid~nce with the path P.
Obviously, the thickness of the bars 131, 131 can b~: varied but varied equally so that no matter the pair of bars snap-inserted into the slots 122, the dist<r.nce between 1 ~) each opposing guide surface 133 anti tl7e path P of token axis travel is identical.
Thus, edge guides, ribs or bars 131 of le;;~so~- car groater width than those illustrated in Figures I I and 15 can be similarl}~ utilized to readily and rapidly field-change the width of the toketl chute 'ft" to accommodate validation of tokens 10 of differing diameters, again without alte~'ing in any fashion sensing by the sensing means 91, c)2, 1 ~) 1, 1 ~)2 along thc; center A of the token 10, or any other tokens of differing diameters" as they descend along the center line P
through the token chute TC:".
The means for selectively varying the thickness I' of the token chute TC
to accommodate tokens 1 (> of diFfe~°ent: tlaicknesses is generally designated by the reference numeral 140 (Figur~~:s ~:), 1 (), 1 1 and 13) an~:l includes a substantially L-shaped or 1-shaped member defined by a central portion I 41, a leg 142 normal thereto, and a return radius portion 143 defining a channel (unnumbered) having an innermost or bight surface t44. A locking detent 145 projects toward the central portion 1 ~ 1. °fl~e side wall fi 1 of' the rear housing 51 includes a downwardly tapering edge l4fi (laigur~::s ~)-11) along which are located a plurality of circular openings 147 equally spaced from each other.
The member 140 is slipped upon the side; wall f~ 1 such that the central portion 141 is innermost and the dete;nt 14:~ is outerrnc~st with the bight surface contacting the edge l4Ca. The front w all 102 of the, front housing 101 abuts against the flange 142 (Figure 15) and is held in this abutting position by the spring 116. Since the edge 146 is tapered toward the bottom of the side wall 61, the depth or thickness T of the token ch~~t~c TC" dill huh ostaUliska~d ~~t a minimum when the det:ent 145 is in the Lowest of the opc;r~i~ags 14 7, whereas the thickness T of the token chute TC will be the greatest when the detent 145 is in the highest of the openings 147. 'Thus, by selectively moving the thickness adjusting member 140 along the edge 146 and positioning the detent 145 selectively in one of the openings 147, the inwardly spring-biased pivoting position of the front housing 101 is fixed which in turn essentially fixes the distance T between the ribs 96, 196 (Figure 14) to accommodate the token chute TC for tokens of different thicknesses, again absent any change in center-line sensing as tokens of virtually any thickness descend along the center line path or center line token sensing path P.
As will ofttimes occur, tokens 10 can jam within the validation device 50 during descent through the token chute TC for a variety of reasons, and in order to unj am tokens and restore operation absent damage to the validation device 50 or any of its components, means generally designated by the reference numeral 220 (Figures 10 and 11) are carried by the plate 52 of the rear housing 51 for cooperation with the caroming surface 120 of the wall portion 118 of the front wall 102 of the front housing 1 O 1. The anti j amming means 220 includes a metallic plate 221 pivotally connected by a pivot 222 to the wall 53 and is spring-biased to the position illustrated in Figures 10 and 11 by a conventional torsion spring 223 having an end (unnumbered) bearing against the underside of a finger tab 224. A guide tab 225 (Figure 12) is struck from the plate 221 and projects into the opening 55 in riding overlying relationship to the back side of the plate 53 along the edge 56 of the opening 55 (Figure 12). A cam portion 226 of the plate 221 is located just below an upper edge (unnumbered) of the opening 54 and in alignment with the cam surface 120 of the front housing I01 when the validation device 50 is closed (Figure 10). The wall portion 118 projects a substantial distance through the opening 54 of the wall 53 (Figure 10) when the housings 51, 101 are closed, and therefore a substantial portion of the caroming surface 120 similarly projects rearwardly beyond the cam 226 of the plate 221. If tokens jam the token chute TC, the pivot 222 is simply depressed which pivots the plate 221 clockwise (Figure 10) bringing the cam portion 226 down against and along the caroming surface 120 causing the front housing 101 to progressively pivotally open about the pivot pins 114 and against the bias of the spring 116 thereby widening/opening the token chute TC and releasing j ammed coins/tokens therein.

Reference is now made specifically to Figures 15, 16 and 17 of the drawings which illustrate details of respective cooperative means 230 and 250 for mounting the sensing means 191, 192 relative to the associated circuit board 190, and the structure hereinafter immediately described applies equally to the sensing means 91, 92 (Figure 12) and the circuit board 90 (Figure 14) thereof.
The circuit board 190 includes cooperative means 230 which is a circular opening except for a generally radial leg 231 descending from the twelve o'clock position of the cooperative means 230 and terminates in a rounded end 232 which includes an axis Sa which is the axis of the cooperative means 230 and also lies on the token centerline path P along which the center A of each token 10 descends as it moves through the token chute TC under the influence of gravity (Figure 15). A plurality of lead openings 233 are formed through the circuit board 190 for purposes to be described more fully hereinafter. A pair of lead openings 234 are also formed through the circuit board 190 into which project leads 235 of the sensing means 192 having an end (unnumbered) received in the recess 194 of the front wall 102 (Figure 18) of the front housing 101. A central axis Ia defines the axis of the sensing means I92 which also lies on the axis of token travel defined by the path axis P.
The cooperative means 230 of the circuit board 190 houses at least two cooperative means 250, one for carrying a source of radiant energy and the other for carrying a radiant energy detector, but irrespective of the number of radiant energy detectors employed, which can vary, the cooperative means 250 for both the radiant energy source and the radiant energy detector or detectors is identical. Each cooperative means 250 (Figure 17) is generally of a pie-shaped or wedge-shaped configuration having a narrowest innermost radial face 251 which can be substantially flat or slightly concavely curved, a radially outboardmost larger convexly curved surface 252, converging/diverging faces 253, 254 and end faces 255, 256 through which pass a bore/counterbore 257. A
radial foot 258 projects from the end face 255 and functions to abut against and seat in an accurately located slot 249 (Figure 15) of the transparent wall 102 to accurately locate the holder in the opening 230 and also relative to the lens means 193, as will be described more fully hereinafter. The seating of one such radial foot 258 relative to a radial locating slot 249 of the wall 102 is illustrated in Figure 18. A circumferential ledge 259 seats against the opposite surface (unnumbered) of the circuit board 190, as is shown in Figure 18. Thus, the radial foot 258, the radial locating slot 249, and the circumferential ledge 259 accurately locate each holder 250 spatially with respect to the lens means and the path P.
The bore 257 of each holder 250 is precisely bored and counterbored (Figure 18) to accurately receive and locate therein at least one light source emitting or generating means 260 (6 o'clock position in Figure 16) and at least one light source sensing means 261 (8 o'clock position in Figure 16), though further light source sensing means 262 (4 o'clock position in Figure 16) can be provided to collectively sense multiple bands 15, 16 (Figures 1 and 2) of facets 18, 19, respectively, arcuately spaced differing from each other by at least 1 S°, as was earlier described. The light source emitting or generating means 260 can be a conventional light emitting diode, such as a Siemens SFH 409 infra red LED
in a T-i plastic package, whereas the light source sensing means 261 and/or 262 is a matched photodetector, such as a Siemens silicon NPN phototransistor model SFH 309. Pairs of leads (unnumbered) of the light source emitting or generating means 260 and the light source sensing means 261, 262 are inserted in the lead openings 233, soldered and define portions of verification circuitry generally designated by the reference numeral 300 in Figure 20 of the drawings which will be described more fully hereinafter. Suffice it to say that the axis Sa corresponds to the axis of development of the lens 193 or the lens axis La (Figure 15), and as light is emitted from the light source emitting or generating means 260 (Figure 16) it passes through lens 193 but the light reflected back from the facets 18, 19 of a particular token 10 will only be received by the light source sensing means 261 or 262 if' the reflective facets a:>f token 1I:) are perpendicular to a line L2 bisecting the optical axes of the light source emitting or generating means and the light source sensing me~~ns :u61, as viewed in Figure 16, and perpendicular to the parallel rays emana ing from far side of in situ molded lens 193 toward the token 10, as viewed in 1~ figure 1$. 'Tlous, as is best:
illustrated in Figure 18, the curvature (unnumbered} of the l~;ns 193 depicts light traveling through the lens 193, bei~~g ref°ractecl thereby to irtnpinge upon the facets 18, 19 at a 90°angle thereto and being reflected from each token facet once again back along line I,1 to the light source sen5irrg means 261 (and/or 262). A genuine or valid token 10 thus sensed will through the circuit 3(~0 of Figure 20 result in the coil 77 being energised to pivot tl:re gate 74 *~llo~ving the coin/token 10 to continue along its "acceptance"' path 1' to ~r ~;oin;''toker~ reservoir.
The circuit 300 of Figure 20 is representative of the functionality of a single optical sensor validation device, whereas multiple optical sensor devices are created by duplicating the L:ED drive circuitry and placing additional phototransistors in parallel with Q:~. A siaigl~ microcontroller distinguishes between optical sensors by knowing whic;,h I~EI) has beets activated.
Preferably there are two light source emitting or generating means 26C) and one light source sensing means 261 on each side of the token chute ~1~(:'. The microcontroller first turns on transistor Q4 to discharge transistor ('1. Tlven transistor Q4 is turned off and transistor Q2 is turned on aprd ~.~~uses current to flow through the light source emitting or generating means I~2 (26C~~ thus emitting light through the lens 193 into the token chute T't~.". If a tcyken 10 is present and positioned so that its facets 18 or 19 are coincident with the light ~xmanating from lens 193 and if the facets are perpendicular t<.a the lire bisecting the optical axes of the light source emitting or generating means '>fiI_.1 and thc~ light source sensing means 261 as viewed in Figure 16, and perpendicular to the parallel rays emanating from far side of in situ molded lens 193 t<award the tr>ken l0 as viewed in Figure 18, then a significant portion of the light will he reflected back through lens 193 to '2 ~

the light source sensing means Q3 (261). Photocurrent proportional to the received light will flow through phototransistor Q3 into C 1 causing the voltage on C1 to rise at a rate proportional to the photocurrent and therefore proportional to the received light intensity. The relative intensity of the reflective light is inversely proportional to the time it takes to charge a capacitor Cl to the reference voltage Vref of a conventional comparator U2. The output of the comparator U2 is monitored by the microcontroller Ul and the time taken to charge the capacitor Q2 to Vref volts is measured by the microcontroller U1.
The latter generates a signal to turn on the transistor Ql if the token/coin is acceptable resulting in the gate relay Kl corresponding to coil 77 being activated. The gate 74 is pivoted to its open position permitting the accepted coin/token 10 to continue on its vertical path P toward deposit in a coin/token reservoir.
Conventional circuitry is utilized for each of the sensing means 92, 192, once again sensing along the token axis path of travel P and any conventional sensing circuitry, such as that disclosed in the aforementioned patents, can be utilized to sense the annular band 17 or the innermost central portion 14 or both of the token 10, or the similar separately formed innermost central circular portions 14' and the annular band 17' of the token 10'. Suffice it to say that due to travel of any of the tokens 10, 10', etc. with the center A thereof at all times moving along the vertical token path of travel P of the token chute TC, as established by half the distance by any of the guide ribs 112, 113, 133, 133, accurate reliable validation is continually achieved by the validation device of the present invention.
Due to the fact the validation device 50 is readily adapted for sensing, testing and validating a variety of tokens differing in diameter, thickness, transparency and/or opaqueness, alloy content, etc., the same can be utilized with many different coin/token operated devices either in retrofit applications or for different original equipment manufacturers. However, the circuitry 300 must interface with all coin operated devices in a manner which allows one standard acceptor to emulate the electrical interface of other older acceptors, most of which have differ~;nt electrical plug connect~ars. This could be done by time consuming rewiring of the various token operated devices to mate with the chosen electrical plug connector style chosen tor- the token acceptor of this invention. However, to avoid such laborious, time consuming anal ofttimes difficult adaptation, the present invention includes as part of the verification circuitry 300 novel electric plug conn~;ctor means ~l~ figures 12 and 19) generally designated by the reference numeral 4()() for accrocnmodating the output of the circuit 300 forming part of the circuit board 1~)0 for utilization with various coin/token operated devices. The electric plug connector means 400 includes a circuit board 401 with appropriate cix-cuitry thereon (not shown) which accommodates the specific electrical connector 403 for utilization with a particular token operated device. The electrical plug connector means 400 includes a female pin connectcar 402 which can be connected to pins 300' of the circuit 300 of the circuit board 190. An electrical connector 403 is connectable to a specific coin/token operated device. 'fl~us, no matter the "acceptance"
signal transmitted through tl~e pins 30(7' ofi" the circuit 300, the specific coin/token operated device will be properly activated through the personality plug 400. Thus, the personality plug 4(7(iI is utilized as an adaptor for assuring proper validation with a specific ccoin/token ac.cepl:or, but for another OEM
coin/token acceptor another personality plug is provided including the identical plug connector 402, but appropriate dif°ferent ~:ircuitry associated.
with the circuit board 401 and a diC:ferent electrical connector 403 for "pers<>nalizing" the validation device to such other coin/token operated device. Therefore, by providing a half dozen or so specifically designed electrical plug connector means 400 with differing circuits 401 and connectors 403, the validation device SO is adapted for utilization with the vast majority of coin/token operated devices principally utilized in today's corrtmerci~~l env ironment.
2(i Reference is made to Figures 21 a.tad 22 of tlu: drawings in which front and rear housings 101', 51', respectively, are illustrated in pivoted relationship to each other with respective light and inductive sensing means 91' and 92' being diagrammatically shown associated with the front housing 101', though idontical Eight and inductive sensing means can also be associated with the rear housing ~ 1'. However, in lieu of chute width changing means 130 of Figure 11, comparable te~ken edge guiding means 130' are provided in the form of individual guide ribs 131' each having legs or .flanges 132' slidably received in slots or openings 129' of the f"runt wall 102' of the front housing 101'. Fasteners 119' are selectively threaded through threaded holes (unnumbered) in the flanges 132' and bottom against the wall :I t>2' to lock the individual guiding ribs 131' at desired perpendicular distances from each other, ~t all times each being spaced an identical perpendicular distance fiom tile center line or token path of travel Pl. Thus, large diameter tokens (Figure 21 ) or° small diameter tokens (Figure 22) can equally be validated during passage thereof past the sensors ~~ 1 ", ~)2' v~rith the axes of such tokens at all times traveling along the vertical token path of travel P 1.

Claims (21)

1. A token for use with a token operated device comprising a plurality of predetermined optical characteristics, said plurality of predetermined optical characteristics being disposed in a substantially radially symmetrical manner with respect to said token, and each of said optical characteristics having the property of a facet wherein an effective surface normal of said facet is aligned along a predetermined vector angle with an elevation angle ranging substantially between 30°
and 60°and an azimuthal angle other than substantially along a radial line of the token or substantially along a line tangent to an annular ring centered on the token such that said token operated device can validate said predetermined optical characteristics substantially independent of token orientation.

2. The token as defined in claim 1 wherein opposite faces of said token have substantially the same said optical characteristics.

3. The token as defined in claim 1 wherein opposite faces of said token have substantially different said optical characteristics.

4. The token as defined in claim 1 including a plurality of second predetermined optical characteristics, said plurality of second predetermined optical characteristics being disposed in a substantially radially symmetrical manner with respect to said token, and each of said second optical characteristics having the property of a facet wherein an effective surface normal of said last-mentioned facet is aligned along a predetermined vector angle with an elevation angle ranging substantially between 30°
and 60° and an azimuthal angle other than substantially along a radial line of the token or substantially along a line tangent to an annular ring centered on the token such that said token operated device can validate said second predetermined optical characteristics substantially independent of token orientation.

5. The token as defined in claim 1 wherein each of said plurality of predetermined optical characteristics is curved with respect to an associated chordal line of the token.

6. A token for use with a token operated device comprising a plurality of predetermined optical characteristics, said plurality of predetermined optical characteristics being disposed in a substantially radially symmetrical manner with respect to said token, and each of said optical characteristics having the property of a curved facet wherein an effective surface normal at a point on said curved facet is aligned along a predetermined vector angle with an elevation angle ranging substantially between 30° and 60° and an azimuthal angle other than substantially along a radial line of the token or substantially along a line tangent to an annular ring centered on the token such that said token operated device can validate said predetermined optical characteristics substantially independent of token orientation.

7. The token as defined in claim 6 wherein said plurality of predetermined optical characteristics are disposed along a substantially annular band.

8. The token as defined in claim 6 including a second plurality of predetermined optical characteristics, said second plurality of predetermined optical characteristics being disposed in a substantially radially symmetrical manner with respect to said token, each of said second optical characteristics having the property of a curved facet wherein an effective surface normal at a point on said last-mentioned facet is aligned along a predetermined vector angle with an elevation angle ranging substantially between 30° and 60° and an azimuthal angle other than substantially along a radial line of the token or substantially along a line tangent to an annular ring centered on the token, and said first-mentioned and second plurality of predetermined optical characteristics are on the same face of the token such that said token operated device can validate said second predetermined optical characteristics substantially independent of token orientation.

9. The token as defined in claim 6 including a second plurality of predetermined optical characteristics, said second plurality of predetermined optical characteristics being disposed in a substantially radially symmetrical manner with respect to said token, each of said second optical characteristics having the property of a curved facet wherein an effective surface normal at a point on said last-mentioned facet is aligned along a predetermined vector angle with an elevation angle ranging substantially between 30° and 60° and an azimuthal angle other than substantially along a radial line of the token or substantially along a line tangent to an annular ring centered on the token, and said first-mentioned and second plurality of predetermined optical characteristics are on different faces of the token such that said token operated device can validate said second predetermined optical characteristics substantially independent of token orientation.

10. The token as defined in claim 6 including a second plurality of predetermined optical characteristics, said second plurality of predetermined optical characteristics being disposed in a substantially radially symmetrical manner with respect to said token, each of said second optical characteristics having the property of a curved facet wherein an effective surface normal at a point on said last-mentioned curved facet is aligned along a predetermined vector angle with an elevation angle ranging substantially between 30° and 60° and an azimuthal angle other than substantially along a radial line of the token or substantially along a line tangent to an annular ring centered on the token, and said vector angle of said first-mentioned and second plurality of predetermined optical characteristics are substantially the same such that said token operated device can validate said second predetermined optical characteristics substantially independent of token orientation.

11. The token as defined in claim 6 including a second plurality of predetermined optical characteristics, said second plurality of predetermined optical characteristics being disposed in a substantially radially symmetrical manner with respect to said token, each of said second optical characteristics having the property of a curved facet wherein an effective surface normal at a point on said last-mentioned facet is aligned along a predetermined vector angle with an elevation angle substantially between 30°
and 60° and an azimuthal angle other than substantially along a radial line of the token or substantially along a line tangent to an annular ring centered on the token, and said vector angle of said first-mentioned and second plurality of predetermined optical characteristics are substantially different such that said token operated device can validate said second predetermined optical characteristics substantially independent of token orientation.

12. The token as defined in claim 8 wherein said first-mentioned and second plurality of predetermined optical characteristics are each disposed along a substantially annular band.

13. The token as defined in claim 9 wherein said first-mentioned and second plurality of predetermined optical characteristics are each disposed along a substantially annular band.

14. The token as defined in claim 10 wherein said first-mentioned and second plurality of predetermined optical characteristics are each disposed along a substantially annular band.

15. The token as defined in claim 11 wherein said first-mentioned and second plurality of predetermined optical characteristics are each disposed along a substantially annular band.

16. The token as defined in any one of claims 1 through 15 wherein said predetermined optical characteristics include reflective facets.

17. The token as defined in any one of claims 1 through 15 wherein said predetermined optical characteristics include refractive facets.

18. The token as defined in any one of claims 1 through 15 wherein said predetermined optical characteristics include holographic or diffraction gratings.

19. A token comprising a face having a plurality of predetermined optical characteristics disposed between circular lines defining therebetween a substantially annular band relative to a center A with each optical characteristic being curved relative to a chord line passing through a reference point X in said annular band through which also passes a radius of the token, the chord line and radius defining an included angle 8, and successive optical characteristics are formed in the face by rotating the token about its center A by a rotation angle RT defined by the equation RT = where d is the perpendicular distance between said predetermined optical characteristics and AX is the length of the radial line between the center A
and the reference point X.

20. The token as defined in claim 19 wherein each optical characteristic is a facet between said circular lines.

21. The token as defined in claim 19 wherein each optical characteristic is a groove having opposite peaks located one at each of said circular lines.