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Coin-operated Mechanisms


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Coin-operated Mechanisms

Coin-operated mechanisms are devices that require the insertion of a coin or token in order to activate a particular function or service. These mechanisms have been used for a variety of purposes, including vending machines, arcade games, parking meters, and public telephones. The use of coin-operated mechanisms dates back to the late 19th century, when the first vending machines were introduced in the United States. The basic principle behind coin-operated mechanisms is simple: a user inserts a coin or token into a slot, which triggers a mechanism that allows access to a particular service or product. In the case of vending machines, for example, the user inserts a coin and selects a product, which is then dispensed by the machine. In the case of arcade games, the user inserts a coin and is granted a certain amount of play time, during which they attempt to achieve a high score or complete a particular objective. Coin-operated mechanisms have been used in a variety of industries, from transportation to entertainment. In the transportation industry, coin-operated mechanisms have been used in parking meters and toll booths to collect fees from users. In the entertainment industry, coin-operated mechanisms have been used in arcade games, jukeboxes, and photo booths to provide users with a fun and engaging experience. While coin-operated mechanisms have largely been replaced by electronic payment systems in many industries, they continue to be used in certain contexts. For example, some vending machines still require the insertion of coins or tokens, and some arcade games still use coin-operated mechanisms as a way to limit play time and prevent abuse.

Vending machines, Arcade games, Parking meters, Public telephones, Electronic payment systems

Steven Thompson

CITATION : "Steven Thompson. 'Coin-operated Mechanisms.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=300957 (Accessed on July 16, 2025)"


Coin-operated Mechanisms Definition
Coin-operated Mechanisms on Design+Encyclopedia

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