For the vast majority of vending machines in circulation today, shrinkage, the furtive disappearance of money from the machines, is an ever rising concern. This high level of waste generated is mainly caused by weak key management and accountability systems. Today, electronic mechanism designs that require little or no redesign to satisfy existing enclosures are opening up new options for affordable, reliable latching and locking solutions to help combat these issues. 

These independent electromechanical latching devices, designed for a variety of heavy and light-duty applications, allow the integration of electronic access convenience into vending equipment whilst maintaining a wide range of control over implementation and access methods.  Because they operate on simple low voltage electrical signals from any compatible power source, electromechanical latching devices enable any degree of sophistication, or simplicity that is desired in the access control system. This makes electronic access an affordable option even in low-volume or stand-alone applications.

The electronic systems used to control access and generate the signals needed to actuate latches can range from a simple key fob or proximity button all the way up to sophisticated biometrics access technology.  And in locations where employees already carry ID cards with magnetic strips, proximity chip or other electronic ID technology, that existing infrastructure can be used to manage and monitor electronic access to vending equipment or enclosures fitted with electromechanical latches.  In such instances, unique access codes on individual cards can also be used to restrict access to pre-authorised individuals (managers, technicians, service personnel,

etc.) to provide an electronic record of when, where and to whom access was granted.  Going one stage further, the same codes could even be used to actuate video monitoring whenever access is provided.

There are multiple physical format options for electronic access security.  These can include manually actuated latches where an electronic signal is used to release an internal locking mechanism that keeps the external manual handle from rotating when the unit is locked.  Alternatively, they can be electromechanical latches where an actual rotary latch mechanism is directly actuated by the electronic signal, allowing the door to open.  These electromechanical latches provide the capabilities of electronic latching and electronic locking in the same device.  This delivers the combined benefits of control, convenience, safety and security, all in a self-contained unit.  Using a signal to manage user access and to power the mechanical action that opens or closes the latch enhances access control security and user convenience at the same time.  Versatility in how you generate that electronic signal enables you to provide the degree of security that suits your application.

In addition to this, an alternative option is a version of access control that uses electronic signals to not only actuate a locking mechanism, but to monitor the status of a manually operated lock.  This switch-lock hardware works like a mechanical latch with key-locking capability, but is equipped with a relay switch that can signal a locked/unlocked condition.  The signal generated by the switch lock can be used to power something as simple as an on/off status-indicator light on a control panel, or as an electronic interlock signal or safety lockout to enable or disable another mechanical or electrical function from taking place.

One such electronic access mechanism is the new Southco® R4-EM Electronic Rotary Latch, which combines robust rotary latch security and electronic access convenience in a single integrated solution. Unlike a standard mechanical latch linked with a separate solenoid actuator, the gear-motor drive in the R4-EM delivers a robust feel to latch actuation and is more efficient in terms of lower power requirements and higher load capability. This provides versatility for performance across a wide range of applications.  The compact integrated latch design also makes the R4-EM easy to install, operate, and maintain. The housing requires minimal space and minimal protrusion inside the compartment, and installs simply with just two bolts to keep installation costs low. Its proven mechanical design and all-metal construction provide excellent vandal resistance with long-term durability and reliability. An integral micro-switch option is available to provide a "latch opened/latch closed" status signal for remote monitoring.  This easy-to-install solution can be retrofit into existing applications currently only using mechanical latch access. 

Understanding how a particular application could benefit from the convenience and flexibility of electronic access security, OEMs of vending equipment should look for a specialist latch supplier that can evaluate their specific needs and offer multiple solutions which can save both time and money. 

Visit Southco at AVEX to discover the latest developments in electronic access technology and collect your free guide to Electronic Access Solutions.

Stand P40

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