Patent Application
20070228152
This invention relates to automated transaction machines.
Automated transaction machines include automated banking machines. A common type of automated banking machine is an automated teller machine (“ATM”). ATMs may be used to perform transactions such as dispensing cash, accepting deposits, making account balance inquiries, paying bills, and transferring funds between accounts. ATMs and other types of automated banking machines may be used to dispense media or documents such as currency, tickets, scrip, vouchers, checks, gaming materials, receipts, or other media. While many types of automated banking machines, including ATMs, are operated by consumers, other types of automated banking machines may be operated by service providers. Such automated banking machines may be used by service providers to provide cash or other types of sheets or documents when performing transactions. For purposes of this disclosure, an automated banking machine shall be construed as any machine that is capable of carrying out transactions which include transfers of value.
A popular brand of automated banking machine is manufactured by Diebold, Incorporated, the assignee of the present invention. Such automated banking machines are capable of selectively dispensing media, such as in the form of sheets, to users of the machine. A sheet dispensing mechanism used in such machines includes a picking mechanism which delivers or “picks” sheets generally one at a time from a stack of sheets stored within the machine. Media, such as a stack of sheets, can be housed in a specialized container such as a cassette or canister. Media cassettes can be designed to operate in conjunction with the particular media removal mechanism of the machine. A media cassette can be an integral part of the media dispensing system. Cassettes can be loaded or filled with media at locations away from the machine and under secure conditions. Cassettes can be transported to the automated banking machine. Cassettes present the advantage of allowing large amounts of media to be loaded into machines quickly. The interchangeability of cassettes between machines which have the same type of media removal mechanism may also be permitted. An example of a cassette adapted for use in an automated banking machine is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,113,140, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
Picked sheets can be transported through one or more transports within the machine and eventually delivered to a user. A picking mechanism used in some Diebold automated banking machines is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,577,720, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. The picking mechanism includes a rotating picking member that comprises a plurality of cylindrical portions disposed along a shaft. Each cylindrical portion includes a high friction segment along a portion of the circumference. These high friction segments are sized and positioned such that upon each rotation of the picking member, an end note bounding an end of the stack is exposed to the moving high friction segment. Such exposure causes the end note to be moved away from the stack in engagement with the moving cylindrical portions of the picking member.
Disposed adjacent to each of the cylindrical portions of the picking member and in the direction of rotation of the picking member relative to the stack when picking the notes, are a plurality of stripping members. A stripping member is disposed in generally abutting relation with each of the cylindrical portions of the picking member. Each stripping member is generally circular and does not rotate during rotation of the picking member in a note picking direction. The stripping member generally operates to prevent all but the end note from moving out of the stack upon rotation of the picking member. The stripping member operates to prevent generally all but the end note from being delivered from the stack because the force applied by the picking member directly on the end note exceeds the resistance force applied by the stripping member to the end note. However the resistance force of the stripping member acting on notes in the stack other than the end note, because such notes are not directly engaged with the picking member, generally prevents the other notes from moving from the stack.
Stripping members may each be supported through one-way clutch mechanisms. These one-way clutch mechanisms prevent the stripping members from turning responsive to the force applied to the stripping members as the picking member moves to pick a note. However the one-way clutch in connection with each stripping member enables each stripping member to rotate in a direction opposite to that which the stripping member is urged to move during picking. This is useful in situations where a doubles detector senses that more than one note has moved past the stripping member. In such circumstances a controller operating in the banking machine may operate to cause the picking member to rotate in an opposed direction, which is the opposite of the direction in which the picking member normally moves when picking a note. As the picking member moves in this opposed direction, the stripping member rotates so as to facilitate the movement of the multiple sheets back toward the stack. Once the multiple sheets have been moved back toward the stack and beyond the stripping member, the controller may operate to cause the picking mechanism to again try to pick a single note from the stack.
In many existing automated banking machines produced by the assignee of the present invention, notes that are picked from the dispenser are moved through a transport of the type shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,342,165, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Such transports include a plurality of generally parallel and transversely disposed belt flights which move the notes in engagement therewith. Disposed between each adjacent pair of belt flights is a projecting member. The projecting member generally extends to at least the level of the sheet engaging surfaces of the adjacent belt flight. As a result sheets are captured in sandwiched relation between the projecting members and the belt flight. This sandwiching of the sheets causes the sheets to move with the moving belt flights to selected locations in the machine. For example as shown in the incorporated disclosure, the sheets are moved in engagement with the belt flight into a stack. Once the stack of sheets has been accumulated, the stack is engaged with belt flights so that it can be moved to be presented to a user of the machine.
The sheet dispenser mechanisms and transports described are highly reliable and have been used extensively in automated banking machines. However, problems can sometimes be encountered in the picking and transport of sheets. In some circumstances sheets may have relatively high surface tension and an affinity for adjacent sheets. This may prevent an end note from being readily separated from a stack of sheets. Alternatively an end note may be worn or soiled in a way that reduces its frictional properties. In such cases an end note may be more resistant to the forces of the high friction segment on the picking member and will not readily separate from the stack. In alternative situations the picking mechanism may be picking a type of sheet which is plasticized or otherwise has reduced frictional properties relative to the high friction segment on the picking member. In such circumstances picking the end note from a stack may prove more difficult to accomplish reliably.
Difficulties in picking sheets may also be encountered due to wear or malfunctions. After extended use the high friction segments on a picking member can become worn. This results in the segments providing less engaging force to move an end note. Alternatively or in addition, high friction segments may become soiled with use, which may also have the effect of reducing the frictional properties of the picking member. The currency canisters which hold the stack of notes also provide a biasing force to hold the end note in abutting relation with the picking member. As a result of damage or wear, the mechanism which provides the biasing force may not provide as great a force biasing the end note to engage the picking member as may be desirable to achieve highly reliable picking of sheets.
In circumstances where the picking member has difficulty picking a note, the note fails to move in coordinated relation with the high friction segments on the cylindrical portions of the picking member. The high friction segments may rotate past the end note leaving the end note generally in the stack. When this situation occurs the machine controller generally operates so that repeated attempts are made to pick the note. If the note cannot be removed from the stack, the machine may operate in accordance with its programming to provide notes from other supplies through other picking mechanisms within the machine. Alternatively the machine may indicate a malfunction and be placed out of service. In either case the extended transaction time or complete inability to carry out a user's transaction presents a significant inconvenience to the user of the machine.
Notes with less than optimum properties may also cause problems when being transported within the machine. Notes that have become wet or soiled may adhere to the projecting members and may fail to move with the belt flights in the transport. Notes that are slippery or have unduly low friction may not produce sufficient engaging force with the moving belt flights and may not move in coordinated relation with the belt flights. Likewise unduly worn or limp notes may not achieve normal engaging force with the belt flights and may become stuck or otherwise fail to move in a transport.
These conditions also present the potential for delaying a transaction or placing a machine out of service. The problem of notes sticking in a transport may also result in the misdispensing of notes. In some circumstances notes may be crumpled or damaged due to transport problems.
Thus there exists a need for improvements to picking mechanisms and sheet transports used in automated banking machines. There further exists a need for improvements to picking mechanisms and transports used in automated banking machines that can be readily installed in existing machines to facilitate use with notes and sheet types having a wider range of properties. There further exists a need for improvements to media cassettes which can be used with picking mechanisms.
It is an object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide an automated banking machine.
It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide an automated banking machine with an improved system for picking sheets.
It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide an automated banking machine with an improved system for transporting sheets.
It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide an automated banking machine which provides added force when necessary for picking or transporting sheets.
It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide an automated banking machine with an improved media cassette.
It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a method for picking sheets in an automated banking machine.
It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a method for transporting sheets in an automated banking machine.
It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a method for improving the operation of an automated banking machine.
It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a method for upgrading an existing machine to provide for improved picking of sheets.
It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a method for upgrading an existing automated banking machine to provide for improved transport of sheets.
It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a method of improving a media cassette for an automated banking machine.
It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a method for upgrading an existing automated banking machine to provide for improved media cassettes.
The disclosures of U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 60/437,636 filed Dec. 31, 2002 and 60/437,637 filed Dec. 31, 2002 are incorporated herein by reference.
Further objects of exemplary forms of the present invention will be made apparent in the following Best Mode For Carrying Out Invention and the appended claims.
The foregoing objects are accomplished in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention by replacing the picking member in the prior art sheet dispenser mechanism with, or otherwise providing an alternate picking member that provides for applying additional force to move a sheet from a stack in situations where the sheet does not move with the picking member. In the exemplary embodiment the sheets which are picked through operation of the picking member are notes that are picked from a stack. The stack is bounded by an end note which engages the picking member.
The alternative picking member includes at least one movable engaging portion. The movable engaging portion is movable relative to the rotating picking member. The alternate picking member operates so that when the picking member rotates about its axis to pick a note, the engaging portion is in engagement with the end note being picked. In circumstances where the picking member rotates such that the movement of the picking member exceeds the movement of the end note, the engaging portion moves further radially outward relative to the picking member. This outward movement of the engaging portion applies increasing engaging force to the end note. This increasing engaging force results in additional force tending to move the end note relative to the stack.
The exemplary form of the alternate picking member includes a cam surface and a cam follower portion. The cam follower portion is operatively connected to the engaging portion. The action of the cam surface and cam follower portion operates to cause the engaging portion to move radially inward when necessary, before the engaging portion passes adjacent to the stripping member. This avoids the engaging portion from colliding with the stripping member and prevents damage to the dispenser mechanism as well as to notes that are moved therethrough.
The exemplary form of the present invention further includes a sheet transport for transporting notes or sheets that have been dispensed from the dispenser mechanism. The sheet transport includes a plurality of belts which include a plurality of generally parallel transversely spaced belt flights. Projecting member portions extend generally parallel and intermediate of the belt flights. This configuration enables sheets to move in sandwiched relation between the belt flights and the projecting member portions. To provide more reliable movement of sheets, at least one of the conventional belts is replaced with an alternate belt. While the conventional belts have a generally smooth continuous sheet engaging surface, the exemplary form of the alternate belt includes at least one and preferably a plurality of, projections that extend from the sheet engaging surface of the belt. As a result, sheets which become stuck due to adhesion to the projecting member portions will be engaged by the projections and urged to move in the transport. Similarly sheets which do not have sufficient frictional engagement with the belt flights to be moved along the transport, are engaged by the projections and urged to move therewith. This minimizes the risk that sheets will become hung up in the transport and results in higher reliability of the machine.
The exemplary form of the picking member and belt may be installed in new machines or in existing automated banking machines without further substantial modifications to the machines. This may enable enhancing machine reliability quickly and at a modest cost.
Referring now to the drawings and particularly
Automated banking machine 10 includes a housing 12 which houses certain components of the machine. The components of the machine include input and output devices. In this exemplary embodiment the input devices include a card reader schematically indicated 14. Card reader 14 is operative to read a customer's card which includes information about the customer thereon, such as the customer's account number. In embodiments of the invention the card reader 14 may be a card reader adapted for reading magnetic stripe cards and/or so-called “smart cards” which include a programmable memory. Another input device in the exemplary embodiment are input keys 16. Input keys 16 may in embodiments of the invention, be arranged in a keypad or keyboard. Input keys 16 may alternatively or in addition include function keys or other types of devices for receiving manual inputs. It should be understood that in various embodiments of the invention other types of input devices may be used such as biometric readers, speech or voice recognition devices, inductance type readers, IR type readers, and other devices capable of communicating with a person, article or computing device, radio frequency type readers and other types of devices which are capable of receiving information that identifies a customer and/or their account.
The exemplary embodiment of machine 10 also includes output devices providing outputs to the customer. In the exemplary embodiment machine 10 includes a display 18. Display 18 may include an LCD, CRT or other type display that is capable of providing visible indicia to a customer. In other embodiments of the invention output devices may include devices such as audio speakers, RF transmitters, IR transmitters or other types of devices that are capable of providing outputs which may be perceived by a user either directly or through use of a computing device, article or machine. It should be understood that embodiments of the invention may also include combined input and output devices such as a touch screen display which is capable of providing outputs to a user as well as receiving inputs.
The exemplary embodiment of the automated banking machine 10 also includes a receipt printer schematically indicated 20. The receipt printer is operative to print receipts for users reflecting transactions conducted at the machine. Forms of the invention may also include other types of printing mechanisms such as statement printer mechanisms, ticket printing mechanisms, check printing mechanisms, and other devices that operate to apply indicia to media in the course of performing transactions carried out with the machine.
Automated banking machine 10 further includes one or more controllers schematically indicated 22. Controller 22 includes one or more processors that are in operative connection with a memory schematically indicated 24. The controller is operative to carry out programmed instructions to achieve operation of the machine in accomplishing transactions. As schematically indicated, the controller is in operative connection with a plurality of the transaction function devices included in the machine.
The exemplary embodiment of the invention includes at least one communications device 26. The communications device may be one or more of a plurality of types of devices that enable the machine to communicate with other systems and devices for purposes of carrying out transactions. For example, communications device 26 may include a modem for communicating messages over a data line or wireless network, with one or more other computers that operate to transfer data representative of the transfer of funds in response to transactions conducted at the machine. Alternatively the communications device 26 may include various types of network interfaces, line drivers or other devices suitable to enable communication between the machine 10 and other computers and systems.
Machine 10 also includes a plurality of sensing devices for sensing various conditions in the machine. These various sensing devices are represented schematically by component 28 for simplicity and to facilitate understanding. It should be understood that a plurality of sensing devices are provided in the machine for sensing and indicating to the controller 22 the status of devices within the machine.
Automated banking machine 10 further includes a plurality of actuators schematically indicated 30 and 32. The actuators may comprise a plurality of devices such as motors, solenoids, cylinders, rotary actuators and other types of devices that are operated responsive to the controller 22. It should be understood that numerous components within the automated banking machine are operated by actuators positioned in operative connection therewith. Actuators 30 and 32 are shown to schematically represent such actuators in the machine and to facilitate understanding.
In the exemplary automated banking machine 10 there are four sheet dispenser mechanisms 34, 36, 38 and 40. Each sheet dispensing mechanism is operative responsive to the controller 22 to pick sheets. Sheets may be selectively picked generally one at a time from a stack of sheets such as stack 42 shown adjacent to sheet dispenser mechanism 34. In the exemplary embodiment each of the stacks of sheets associated with a respective sheet dispenser mechanism is housed in a canister or cassette. A canister for use in an automated banking machine may be of the type shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,871,085, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. A canister 44 houses sheets in connection with dispenser mechanism 34. Likewise a canister 46 houses sheets to be picked by dispenser mechanism 36. A canister 48 houses sheets dispensed by dispenser mechanism 38 and a canister 50 houses sheets that are dispensed by dispenser mechanism 40. As schematically represented in canister 44, the stack of sheets 42 is biased to engage the sheet dispenser mechanism by a biasing mechanism 52.
In the exemplary embodiment, canisters or cassettes 44, 46, 48, 50 are used to house media having predetermined value, e.g., currency, including bank notes or bills or sheets. Such bank notes may be of various currency denominations which enable dispensing money in varying amounts to customers. Alternatively, one or more of the canisters or cassettes may hold other types of media or sheets such as coupons, scrip, tickets, money orders, vouchers, checks, gaming materials, or other items of value. The controller operates the dispenser mechanism selectively in response to customer inputs and information from systems with which the machine communicates, to cause sheets to be selectively dispensed from the multi-media canisters.
Notes that are dispensed from the canisters in the exemplary embodiment are engaged with a first note transport schematically indicated 54. First note transport 54, which is later described in detail, includes a plurality of continuous belts 56. The belts extend around sets of rollers 58 which operate to drive and guide the belts. As shown schematically in
The second transport 60 in the exemplary embodiment is similar to that shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,342,165 the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Transport 60 also includes a plurality of continuous belts 62 which extend about sets of rollers 64. Rollers 64 operate to drive the belt 62 such that notes passing upward in transport 54 initially engage flights 5 of belt 62 and are collected into a stack 66. In response to operation of the controller 22 when a desired number of notes have been collected in the stack 66, the stack is moved in the manner of the incorporated disclosure and the belts 62 are driven so that the stack 66 is moved toward a user opening 68 in the housing 12 of the machine. As the notes are moved toward the opening 68, the controller operates a suitable actuating device to operate a gate 70 so as to enable the stack to pass outward through the opening. As a result the user is enabled to receive the sheets from the machine. After a user is sensed as having removed the stack from the opening, the controller may operate to close the gate 70 so as to minimize the risk of tampering with the machine.
It should be understood that the devices shown in connection with exemplary automated banking machine 10 are representative of devices that may be found in such machines. Numerous additional or alternative types of devices such as deposit accepting devices, document reading devices, currency accepting devices, ticket printing devices and additional devices may be included in automated banking machines which are used in connection with the present invention.
The picking member 72 has an outer bounding surface 80. The outer bounding surface 80 is in generally abutting relation with stripping members 82. As previously discussed the stripping members 82 in the exemplary embodiment do not rotate in a clockwise direction as shown in
Positioned downstream of the stripping members 82 is a doubles detector 84. Doubles detector 84 may be a mechanical sensor, radiation sensor, sonic sensor or other type sensor that is suitable for determining if single or multiple notes have moved past the stripping member toward the transport. Downstream of the doubles detector are a pair of carry away rolls 86. The carry away rolls are operative to engage sheets that have moved sufficiently away from the stack so as to engage the rolls. The rolls, which are operated by a drive in response to the controller 22, operate to engage sheets and move them into the transport. It should be understood that this configuration of the dispenser mechanism is exemplary and in other embodiments different configurations may be used.
As discussed in the incorporated disclosure of U.S. Pat. No. 5,577,720, the normal operation of the dispenser mechanism involves the picking member rotating responsive to the controller 22 during picking operations. When it is desired to pick the end note 78 the picking member 72 rotates in a counterclockwise direction as shown in
As the end note 78 is moved from the stack the thickness thereof may be sensed by the doubles detector 84. The doubles detector 84 is operatively connected to the controller and at least one signal from the doubles detector provides an indication as to whether a single or a multiple note has been pulled from the stack. In circumstances where multiple notes are sensed, the controller may cause the picking member to operate to stop rotating in the counterclockwise direction as shown in
In circumstances where the doubles detector 84 senses only a single note passing from the stack, the controller operates a drive or other suitable moving mechanism to cause the carry away rolls 86 to engage and move the sheet to the transport 54. It should be understood that the steps described as being taken responsive to operation of the controller are exemplary. In some embodiments of the invention the controller may cause the machine to operate to direct double notes to a divert bin or other storage area rather than attempting to repeatedly pick a single note.
The picking member of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown in greater detail in
As shown in
As shown schematically in
As shown in
Outer surface 112 of cylindrical portion 92 likewise includes a ribbed, relatively high friction portion 120 on the outer surface thereof. Outer surface 112 also includes a relatively lower friction portion 122 which surrounds the high friction portion. The angular position of high friction portion 120 generally corresponds to high friction portion 116 on the central portion 90. As is the case with the other relatively high and low friction portions, high friction portion 120 applies force to the end note generally sufficient to engage and move it from the stack, while the relatively lower friction portion is enabled to move in engagement with the end note without causing it to be disposed from the stack. Similarly as shown in
As most clearly shown in the partial cross sectional view in
A cam 138 is positioned in a recess 140 which extends on opposed longitudinal side from recess 136. Cam 138 is in supporting connection with the shaft 88. Cam 138 is also in supporting connection with a support member portion 142. The support member portion 142 operates to hold the cam 138 stationary as the shaft 88 and cylindrical portion 92 rotates.
Cylindrical portion 94 includes structures which are generally a mirror image of those associated with cylindrical portion 92. The high friction portion of outer surface 114 includes an arcuate segment 144 which is supported on a movable member 146. The movable member 146 is positioned in a recess 148 which is bounded by a web portion 150 and a flange portion 152 of cylindrical portion 94.
A cam 154 is positioned in a recess 156 on an opposed longitudinal side from recess 148. Cam 154 is in supporting connection with the shaft 88 and is held stationary relative to the shaft by a support member portion 158.
As the operation of the cylindrical portions 92 and 94 of the picking member are similar, an explanation of the operation of the picking member will be described with reference to cylindrical portion 94. As best seen in
The cam 154 is bounded by a cam surface 164. A cam follower portion 166 is supported on the movable member 146 at an end opposed of the arcuate segment 144. The cam follower portion extends through an opening 168 in the web portion 150. This enables the cam follower portion 166 to engage the cam surface 164 of the cam 154. As can be appreciated, this arrangement enables the position of the arcuate segment 144 to be controlled as the picking member rotates due to the engagement of the cam follower 166 with the cam surface 164.
The overall operation of the exemplary picking member 72 is explained with reference to
As can be appreciated, the outward movement of the engaging portion on segment 144 applies increasing engaging force on the end note responsive to the end note not moving with the picking member. In addition the engaging portion of segment 144 operates to move further radially outward with an increasing difference between the movement of the picking member and the movement of the note. This outward movement may continue until the segment 144 reaches the full extent of its travel as limited by the cam surface.
As shown in
As shown in
As shown in
As shown in
As can be appreciated this exemplary embodiment of the picking member provides increasing engaging force on the end note responsive to the end note not moving with the picking member. As a result additional picking force is applied in only those circumstances where it is required to move the end note from the stack. In circumstances where notes are soiled, have high surface tension or are of slippery consistency, additional moving force is usually automatically applied. Further the exemplary form of the picking member also enables compensating for wear or reduced friction with soiling that may result from extended use of a picking member. In this way the exemplary form of the picking member is able to compensate for those conditions which might otherwise result in a decrease in note picking reliability.
It should further be understood that while in the exemplary form of the picking member the engaging portion is moved radially outward and applies additional picking force based on the relative movement between the end note and the picking member, in other embodiments other approaches may be used. Such approaches may include for example, other devices and systems for determining a difference in relative movement between the notes being picked and the picking member, and moving in engaging portion to apply additional engaging force in response thereto. Although the exemplary form of the invention uses a mechanical type system to accomplish this, electronic and electromechanical systems may be used in other embodiments.
A further useful aspect of the exemplary form of the picking member and its operation in connection with dispensing mechanisms, is that it may be readily retrofit to an existing automated banking machine. The exemplary form of the invention enables a service technician to access an interior area of an ATM such as by unlocking a door to a secure chest portion. Once access is gained to the note handling mechanism, the technician may remove an existing picking member which does not include the features of the radially movable engaging portions, and to install a picking member 72 in place thereof. In the exemplary form of the invention the support member portions 142 and 158 are configured to engage existing surfaces within the housing of the ATM so as to hold the cams stationary as the picking member rotates. Once installed in the ATM, the door to the secure chest portion is closed and locked.
Picking member 72 is constructed to have the same general profile as picking members that do not incorporate the exemplary form of the present invention. Thus, installation of the exemplary picking member is readily made to improve the operation of the machine. It should further be understood that the programming of the controller 22 also often need not be changed to accommodate the installation of the picking member 72. Except as described herein, the operation of the picking member 72 is similar to that of a picking member which may be replaced in terms of moving and retracting notes.
In the exemplary embodiment of the invention a note transport such as note transport 54, includes features to reduce the risk that notes may become stuck or jammed in the transport. As previously discussed in connection with
As shown in
As can be appreciated from
As can be appreciated from
As mentioned previously, occasionally sheets such as bank notes become stuck in transports of this type. This may result due to various conditions which prevent the notes from moving in coordinated relation with the belt flights. In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, conventional type belts which have in the past been used in transports of this type are replaced with alternative belts which reduce the risk that sheets will become stuck. Specifically while prior belts have a generally smooth continuous sheet engaging surface, the alternative belts used in the exemplary form of the present invention include at least one longitudinally spaced projection which extends in the first facing direction from the sheet engaging surface of the belt. In a more preferred exemplary form of the present invention such longitudinally spaced projections extend at spaced intervals on the first sheet engaging surface of the belt. The presence of such longitudinally spaced extending projections engage sheets that might otherwise not move in the transport and move them to the desired location.
In embodiments of the invention all of the belts used in connection with a transport may include projections thereon. However in some embodiments it may be desirable only to replace certain belts with alternate belts including such projections. For example in the transport including three belt flights shown in
As shown in
It should be understood that the configuration of belt flight 174 with the longitudinally spaced projections which extend across the first sheet engaging surface of the belt is exemplary. In other embodiments of the invention other types of projection configurations may be used. For example,
The exemplary form of the transport improvements of the present invention is designed for use in connection with existing transports which move sheets such as bank notes in an automated banking machine. Belts which include the improvement are made to extend about existing sets of rollers within the machines and to replace existing transport belts which have generally smooth continuous sheet engaging surfaces about the entire periphery thereof. To improve the performance of the transports in such machines, a service person must open the housing of the machine such as by unlocking and opening a door of a secure chest. The service person is then enabled to remove the existing transport belt from a set of rollers which support and move such belt. With the prior belt removed from the transport, an alternative belt of one of the types described herein including longitudinally spaced projections is installed in supporting connection with the set of rollers. The service person may then close and lock the door of the secure chest of the ATM. Sheets may be then moved in the transport urged not only by the relatively smooth portions of the sheet engaging surface of the belt, but further urged to move by engagement with the projections thereon. As can be appreciated, the projections on the belts provide additional urging force that is generally sufficient to move sheets that otherwise might slip or become stuck in a transport.
It should be appreciated that in the exemplary embodiment, the alternate belts described may be used in connection with transport 54 as well as transport 60. The principles of the invention may also be applied to other devices which move sheets within the machine. For example belts which include longitudinally spaced projections of the type described herein may be used in connection with a system for moving stacks of sheets such as is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,507,481, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In such transports the projecting member portions comprise moving belt flights which move in coordinated relation with the facing belt flights and serve to transport stacks in between. Alternative belts including projecting portions thereon may be used to move stacks of sheets that are in between and enable movement of such stacks more reliably. As is explained in the incorporated disclosure, such transports in which the projecting member portions comprise moving belt flights enable reliably moving stacks of notes or connected sheets such as passbooks and checkbooks within an automated banking machine.
The principles of the present invention may also be applied to other types of stack and sheet transports including for example, stack accumulation and presentation mechanisms such as is found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,435,542, the disclosure of which is also incorporated herein by reference. Of course the principles of the invention may be applied to other transport mechanisms as well. It should be understood that the improved sheet dispensing functions achieved through utilization of the principles of the present invention may be incorporated in automated banking machines with the improved transport features to achieve improved reliability in moving and delivering sheets within the automated banking machine. Of course it should also be understood that in some embodiments the improved picking capabilities will be implemented without the improved transport capabilities and vice versa. The principles of the invention may also be applied to other configurations of picking members and devices as well as sheet transports.
In an exemplary embodiment, cassettes or canisters can be labeled to identify and indicate the content of media therein. For example, a multi-media canister may use a mechanical button arrangement to represent items of data relating to the canister and its content. The use and operation of information indication buttons for a canister is described in detail in the disclosure of U.S. Pat. No. 4,871,085, which has been incorporated herein by reference. A button (or movable cassette information indicator member) arrangement may be reflective of cassette ownership, cassette serial number, and media description (e.g., denomination code, height, thickness). A button arrangement can be read by the automated banking machine via a media dispenser. The buttons can contact an electrical switch actuator of a dispenser component. In an exemplary embodiment, button contact surfaces can include gold plating.
However, the changing of an information indication button arrangement may require the cassette or canister to be opened in order for service personnel to access the buttons. Additionally, certain button arrangements may require that some button holes remain empty of buttons. Thus, the possibility of losing unused removed buttons during handling exists. What is needed is a cassette that enables unused buttons to remain therewith and that permits a button arrangement to be changed without requiring opening of the cassette.
A button may be similar to a screw. A button may have threads which permit its movement relative to the cassette housing. A button head may have a groove or slot arrangement which is adapted to receive the end of a conventional rotation device, such as a screw driver. Alternatively, a button head may have a unique groove or protrusion arrangement which requires a special tool to engage and move the button. Thus, for reasons of security, only authorized personnel may have access to the special tool.
A button head may be accessed from outside of the cassette. That is, authorized service personnel may access the buttons without first opening the cassette. Thus, a cassette need not be opened to change or modify a button arrangement. For example, a cassette fully loaded with currency need not have the currency removed in order to rearrange buttons.
A button can be operatively engaged to a cassette to remain therewith. The end of a button opposite the button head may be removably fixed to the cassette. For example, the end may have a securing device, such as a pin or flange or tab, to prevent removal of the button by outward movement. Thus, a button may have a fixed or predetermined limit to its outward extent. Likewise, a button may also have limited movement in its inward direction. A button may be removably attached to a cassette while the cassette lid is open. That is, the securement of a button to the cassette may be of such an arrangement that the button may not be removed or disengaged from a cassette without first opening the cassette.
The cassette housing 210 may have a symbol 216 (or emblem or label or indicia) thereon representative or indicative of open and closed button positions. As shown, the symbol 216 includes a representation of a button head. The symbol indicates, via an arrow, which way to turn or rotate a button to move it between a closed position and an open position. The symbol also shows that a button head arrow in the vertical or upward direction is indicative of the positive (+) or outward button position. Likewise, the symbol shows that a button head arrow in the horizontal or sideways direction is indicative of the negative (−) or inward button position. Thus, a button moved so that its arrow is in the vertical position is “on” and can be detected or read by the machine. Likewise, a button moved so that its arrow is in the horizontal position is “off” and cannot be detected by the machine.
As discussed in incorporated U.S. Pat. No. 4,871,085, a low currency condition in a cassette can be indicated or signaled by using an indication contact button. However, sometimes too large an amount of surplus currency is often remaining in a cassette when a low currency condition is indicated. In certain situations it would be more efficient to be able to dispense more of the cassette currency before a service call is required. Thus, an ability to adjust what constitutes a media-low condition in a cassette would be beneficial. An exemplary embodiment permits such adjustment, refinement, or fine tuning of a media-low indicator arrangement.
A low media actuator may include an indicating contact button, although other devices may also be used to indicate a low media condition to an automated banking machine. For example, a lever (or actuator arm) may be arranged such that movement thereof may be directly detected or sensed by a machine component to indicate a low media condition, without (or in addition to) the use of an indicator button. Still, other indicating relationships and arrangements may be used.
A cassette wall portion 252 can include a plurality of slots 254 (or openings). A trip lever 244 can be operatively attached to an actuator arm 250 via a connector 256 (e.g., pin or screw or bolt) extending through a slot 254. That is, the trip lever and the actuator arm may be connected with the wall therebetween or intermediate thereof (e.g., the trip lever on one side of the wall and the actuator arm on the opposite side of the wall). The connector 256 is operative to slide along a slot 254.
A trip lever 244 (or latch or arm) can move in both a pivoting (e.g., rotational) direction and a lateral direction (i.e., the direction generally parallel to the movement of the push plate). The trip lever is operative to pivot about an axis of the connector. The trip lever can include a stop (or ledge or flange) 258. The stop 258 is operative to engage a step (or shelf) 260 of the cassette wall 252. The engagement is operative to prevent to the trip lever from rotating downward past the step. The trip lever can also be weighted in a laterally downstream portion 262 thereof.
As media is depleted, the push plate moves the trip pin. The trip pin head can eventually contact the trip lever head. With additional push plate movement the trip lever is pushed by the trip pin in the lateral direction. That is, the force due to the weighted portion of the lever can prevent rotation of the lever while the lever has the ability to slide in the slot. The trip lever can be pushed laterally until the connector reaches the downstream end of the slot (e.g., the end of the slot nearest an indicator button hole). With the connector positioned against the end of the slot the actuator arm is extended in its media-low position (e.g., a position which can cause an indicator button to extend from a button hole).
With the connector positioned against the end of the slot, further push plate movement can cause the trip lever to overcome the force due the weighted portion and begin to pivot. The trip lever can pivot a distance such that trip pin head can eventually slide past the trip lever head. Without any trip pin force acting on the trip lever the weighted portion can cause the trip lever to pivot in the opposite direction until the stop again engages the step.
The trip pin 240 (e.g., abutting device or tripping device) can be an adjustable trip pin. The pin can be rearranged or repositioned on a push plate. The embodiment of
A trip pin (or member) may be removably securable to a push plate (or device) at various positions longitudinally spaced along the push plate (or push device) in a direction generally parallel to the movement of cassette media. A trip pin 240 can be removably attached to a push plate portion 242. For example, the connection may include a snap fit type of connection or a tongue and groove type of connection. That is, a trip pin may have a plural projections which are adapted to fit into or mate with respective recesses of a push plate portion.
Alternatively, a trip pin may be slidably secured to a push plate body. The push plate body could have one or more slots. The slots could extend in the push plate in the (longitudinal) direction of media (and push plate) movement. The trip pin could be operative to slide along the slots. The trip pin may have a (lower) flange at one end to retain securement to the push plate body. The trip pin could be fixed or secured at a specific position along the slots. A securing (or locking) device could be used to secure the trip pin at a specific position. Hence, a trip pin could be secured to the push plate body (or member operatively connected thereto) at a first slot position and then later securely repositioned at a second slot position. The trip pin arranged at the first position (or first setting) could be operative to cause actuation (e.g., trip) of an indicator device prior to having the trip pin arranged at the second position (or second setting). That is, a trip pin at one setting can cause (or trigger) a cassette media-low indicator to be actuated (or operated or set into action) at a first predetermined currency volume level condition (or state), whereas the trip pin at a different setting can cause the same cassette indicator to be actuated at a different predetermined currency volume level condition. Thus, the actuation of a media-low indicator at a corresponding predetermined media-low state can be arranged by positioning the trip pin to trip the indicator when the media reaches the predetermined media-low state. Actuation of a media-low indicator can be directly responsive to the trip pin setting.
Alternatively, a trip pin may be rotatably secured to a push plate body. For example, a trip pin may be turnable like a dial or knob. For example, a trip pin may be rotated to one of four different settings. A trip pin may have different sized heads. Each head could be rotated into position engage a trip lever to reflect different media-low levels. Each respective head could be used to trip the same media-low indicator at respective different times. In certain embodiments a trip pin head may be rotatable while the cassette is in an ATM. Thus, trip settings could be automatically changed by the ATM to vary trips settings of a particular cassette. For example, a cassette may carry two different types of media with one media using a first trip pin head and the other media a second trip pin head. Also, a single trip pin head may itself be rotatable. The head could have plural different sized lever engagement points thereon. For example, the head may have four engagement points spaced at 90 degrees. Thus, the trip pin head may be rotated to determine a particular media-low setting.
Alternatively, a push plate may have plural trip pins fixedly attached thereto or integral therewith (e.g., of one-piece therewith). That is, the pins may remain with the push plate (i.e., instead of being removed therefrom). In an embodiment the pins can be recessed or hidden in or below a push plate, and then elevated, extended, or revealed during usage thereof. For example, a pin may be spring biased toward an extended operating position. When the recessed pin is moved perpendicular to and outward from push plate movement it can pop up (e.g., be biased upward in a pivoting direction) into an operating position. After use, the pin can be lowered (e.g., moved against the spring into a position parallel with the push plate surface) and then pushed back into the push plate.
Furthermore, trip pins may be of different sizes or dimensions. For example, trip pins may have lever-engaging heads of different lengths. Thus, a first trip pin having a head of a first length may be attached to a push plate (or some other component which is movable as a paper stack lessens in length). The first trip pin may be attached to the push plate by using a first groove (or slot) pattern arrangement. The first trip pin may be replaced by a second trip pin having a head of longer length. The second trip pin may be attached to the push plate using the same groove pattern (connection) arrangement that was used by the first trip pin. Thus, a low media volume (or length of currency stack) condition would be indicated sooner using the second trip pin than with the first trip pin. That is, the longer head portion of the second trip pin would trip the trip lever before the shorter head portion of the first trip pin.
It should be understood that combinations of (a) adjusting where a trip pin is attached to a push plate, and (b) adjusting trip pin head sizes may be used. Such combinations can further provide fine tuning of low media (or empty media) conditions.
An adjustable trip pin may be set at a particular trip position based on the thickness of the particular currency which is to be loaded in the cassette. For example, a cassette may need a longer stack of thicker (e.g., worn or older) notes in order to have the same number of notes as in a smaller stack of thinner (e.g., new) notes. The thickness of currencies may also vary among nations. Hence, a pin may be arranged to trip earlier for thicker notes and later for thinner notes.
Additionally, it may be beneficial to replenish an ATM cassette (or cassettes) prior to losing the ability to dispense a specific denomination of currency (or the ability to dispense any currency). An adjustable trip pin may be set at a particular trip position based on cassette service response time ability. For example, a first ATM located at a bank building (having bank employees) may have a faster service response time than a second ATM situated at a remote location which is distant from service personnel. That is, a bank employee who works in the bank building (and is notified of a low currency condition) may be able to quickly replenish a currency cassette in the first ATM without leaving the bank, whereas a longer length of time may be needed for an entity to replenish the second ATM. The servicing of the second ATM may require lengthy travel time. Of course other service response time scenarios may occur, such as having an ATM located near an ATM maintenance and/or service center.
Thus, where a relatively longer response time is needed, an adjustable trip pin may be set so that it trips a low condition lever relatively early (e.g., a relatively large portion of a currency stack remains in the cassette at trip time). Contrarily, where a relatively shorter response time is needed, an adjustable pin may be set so that it trips a low condition lever relatively late (e.g., a relatively small portion of a currency stack remains in the cassette at trip time).
In other situations service personnel may only want to know if a cassette has been emptied of its contents. For example, a cassette may have been pre-loaded with media such as coupons. The coupon promoter may have set a specific limit on the number of coupons to be dispensed. Hence, once the cassette is empty it is not to be reloaded with any more of the coupons. Thus, an adjustable trip pin may be set so as to be able to indicate an empty cassette condition.
In alternative embodiments a trip lever can be adjustable. That is, a trip lever may be removed and relocated to a different cassette wall slot. Levers of different sizes and lengths may also be used. Combinations of adjustable and interchangeable trip pins and trip levers can further provide fine tuning of low media (or empty media) conditions. For example, a trip pin and a trip lever can be arranged to accurately indicate a fully empty cassette condition.
Furthermore, a sequence of trip indicators using one or more trip levers may be used. Thus, a machine and/or service personnel may be able to receive numerous notices concerning the indicated level of media remaining in a particular cassette. Each subsequent notice can be reflective of a lesser amount of media remaining in a cassette. For example, a trip pin may pivot a first trip lever to cause a signaling of a first media low condition (which may correspond to the number of notes or the value of notes remaining in the cassette). The first trip lever may be allowed to pivot to permit the trip pin to slide there beyond toward the next (second) trip lever in the sequence. The trip pin may then proceed onward toward the second lever to cause its tripping (i.e., the second tripping in the sequence). Additionally, the slots in a cassette wall may have spacing therebetween of different lengths. That is, the space between two adjacent slots may be greater than the space between two other adjacent slots. Other arrangements may use slots of varying lengths for use with different sized trip levers. That is, a slot may have a greater length than an adjacent slot.
During rough handling or transport a cassette may be dropped or receive vehicle induced vibration. Thus, in certain situations a media-low indicator mechanism of a cassette may trip prematurely. Because of a premature trip, a fully loaded cassette may indicate that it needs replenishing. An exemplary embodiment prevents a media-low indicator mechanism from tripping prematurely. For example, a replenished media cassette can have its low media condition actuator system locked during transport to prevent false firings or trips. The locking arrangement of the exemplary embodiment can be used to reduce or prevent service calls due to false firings of media low mechanisms.
A spring loaded actuator arm can be moved to indicate a low media condition. For example, a previously discussed trip lever may be used to trip, fire, or release the actuator arm. An actuator arm may be used to extend an indicator button through a button hole. The actuator arm can be biased away from its indicating position.
The lock lever can be pivoted (or rotated) about a shaft 276 (or pin). The shaft may be flanged 278 at an end thereof to help hold the lock lever thereon. An opposite end 280 of the shaft can extend into (or through) a shaft slot 282 in a cassette wall portion 252, as shown in
The actuator arm 250 can be biased by a spring 284 in the direction of arrow A. That is, the actuator arm can normally be biased to the right in
The lock lever has an engagement portion 286 (projection or tab or finger) which is adapted to correspondingly engage an engagement portion 288 (projection or tab or finger) of the actuator arm in a locking relationship. That is, the lever finger 286, when in an upward locking position, can engage the actuator finger 288 to prevent movement of the actuator arm toward the left as shown in
The tambour door 272 may be opened in a recessing or retracting manner. For example, the door can be opened by moving in the direction of arrow A in
The lock lever 270 is operative to hold the actuator arm 250 in a locked position during cassette handling and transport. For example, the actuator arm may be locked during the time period following a cassette replenishing and prior to placing the replenished cassette in an automated banking machine. The actuator arm may also be locked during the time period between cassette removal from a machine and opening of the cassette lid.
When the cassette is inserted into a dispenser picker channel of an automated banking machine, the lock lever is operative to be automatically moved away from its holding (or locking) position. Upon movement of the lock lever, the lock lever engagement finger 286 is operative to disengage from the actuator arm engagement finger 288. Then, when a low media condition is reached, the actuator arm is free to be moved against the biasing force of its spring to assist in indicating a low media condition.
Locking and unlocking of the spring loaded actuator arm can be controlled by both the tambour door and by the cassette lid. The lock lever can be moved (or tripped) to an unlocking position by the tambour door. A fully loaded cassette having the actuator arm locked can be inserted into a machine. Upon insertion of the cassette into the machine the door can be opened. As the door is opened, it is operative to engage and move a flange 290 (or arm or portion or extension) of the locking lever 270. For example, the lock lever flange 290 may be moved by engagement with a latch 292 (or catch) on or associated with the tambour door 272. As the door is moved opened, the latch is operative to engage and move the locking lever flange 290. Alternatively, an end of the tambour door itself may be operative to engage and move the lock lever flange. Movement of the lock lever flange 290 (in the direction of arrow A) is operative to cause the lock lever 270 to pivot about the shaft 276. The pivoting action is operative to free (or release or unlock) the actuator arm from its locked condition. That is, the lock lever engagement finger 286 is operative to disengage from the actuator arm engagement finger 288. The open tambour door 272 is operative to maintain (or retain) the lock lever 270 in its unlocking position.
A cassette may need to be removed from an automated banking machine for several reasons, including replenishment. A cassette may be removed from a machine while an actuator arm is in an indicating position. Also, a low media condition may have been indicated, but before a replenishment service could be performed the cassette was emptied of media. Alternatively, a machine may be programmed to empty a cassette prior to replenishment.
Prior to removal of an empty cassette, a media pusher plate may have moved the trip pin past the last trip lever. Thus, the cassette actuator arm, due to action of its return spring, would have returned to its non-indicating position. Upon cassette removal, the tambour door is operative to move toward a closing position. With closing movement of the door the lock lever is no longer held by a door latch in an unlocking position. Thus, the lock lever, due to action of its spring, pivots back to a locking position and traps (or locks) the actuator arm in its non-indicating position. That is, a lock lever finger is operative to be moved to again lockingly engage an actuator arm finger. Hence, during cassette transport (or travel) from the machine to a replenishment work station the actuator arm can again be held in a locked (or secured) condition.
In another scenario a cassette may be removed from an automated banking machine with the actuator arm in an indicating position (e.g., with the actuator arm causing an indicating button to extend through a button hole). For example, the cassette may be removed subsequent to a low media indication but prior to the trip pin passing the trip lever. The cassette may still contain media (i.e., cassette not empty). During removal of the partly filled cassette the tambour door would release the lock lever to return to its locking position. The lever finger would engage the backside (right side in
The actuator arm (whether locked in an indicating position or a non-indicating position) can be automatically released from its locked position upon opening of the cassette lid. With the cassette lid being opened, a lid bearing member 294 is operative to permit movement of the shaft 276 in the direction of arrow B, as shown in
Having the actuator arm unlocked or free during servicing can be beneficial. For example, a free actuator arm during opening of the lid can ensure commonality of initial locking conditions; can permit testing of actuator arm movement and the actuator arm spring operation; may assist in media reloading operations; and may assist in accessing and replacement of cassette components.
With a lid in an open state, a cassette can be replenished or reloaded (loaded or filled). For example, a cassette may be loaded manually or by an automated loading machine. Upon closing the lid, the lock lever is moved to lock the actuator arm in its non-indicating position. A replenished cassette can be transported to an automated banking machine.
A lock lever can be automatically moved to lock an actuator arm responsive to the lid be closed at a work station or the tambour door being closed in a machine. That is, the locking arrangement permits an actuator arm to be automatically locked for all transport. Thus, a media-low indicator mechanism can be properly secured during transport.
As discussed in incorporated U.S. Pat. No. 4,871,085, information regarding a media cassette can be indicated or signaled to an automated banking machine by using one or more indication buttons. An arrangement of buttons can be representative of a cassette and its content, such as cassette ownership, cassette serial number, and currency denomination. Information regarding a particular representative characteristic of a cassette can be passed to an automated banking machine via physical contact between one or more buttons and a component of an automated banking machine. For example, a media-low condition may be indicated by causing contact between a button and a component of an automated banking machine via movement of the contact button. Other cassette buttons may come into contact with a component of an automated banking machine upon insertion of the cassette into the machine.
In an exemplary embodiment discussed in more detail herein, a media cassette may use other arrangements or techniques to indicate cassette content information to an automated banking machine. Unlike communication involving mechanical buttons for physical contact, the exemplary embodiment permits communication to occur without requiring physical contact. For example, a cassette may use an indicator member such as a non-contact transponder to communicate with the automated banking machine. Radio frequency (e.g., radio waves) can be one manner in which to communicate in a non-contact relationship, e.g., communication not based on physical contact. Other types of remote communication may also be used.
A cassette may have one or more radio frequency identification (RFID) tags (or devices or indicator members) which contain data indicative or reflective of cassette content information. RFID tags can operate on the RS backscatter principle. Data communication may occur between the RFID tags and an automated banking machine. Data communication may also occur between the RFID tags and a computer at a service center work station.
A canister or cassette may use non-contact RFID tags instead of or in addition to information indication contact buttons. One or more tags may be removably attached or mounted to a cassette (e.g., thereon or therein). Alternatively, tags may be permanently affixed to a cassette, such as embedded in a (plastic) portion of a cassette.
RFID tags are operative to store information therein representative of the canister and its content, such as cassette ownership, cassette serial number, and currency denomination. In an exemplary embodiment, tags can contain much more cassette-related data than can be represented by an indication button arrangement. For example, in the exemplary embodiment, tags may contain information reflective of logging data (e.g., dates, media counters, handler's name or ID) and media description (e.g., type, height, length, thickness). A tag may carry a unique cassette identification number of 32 bits or longer. The tags are also capable of storing more information in a smaller space in comparison to a mechanical indication button arrangement.
RFID tags, unlike buttons, do not require contact (e.g., mechanical or electrical contact) with a media dispenser component. Thus, the contactless tags can prevent damage (wear and tear) thereto and/or to the dispenser, and may further prevent possible jams associated with mechanical buttons.
RFID tags may have read-only or rewritable memory for storage of cassette information. RFID tags may have a memory which can be changed or modified by service personnel. The tag memory may be programmable. For example, a service work station may have a device operative to communicate with an RFID tag to change and/or read the data contained therein. A hand-held RFID tag communication device may also be used.
Alternatively, a tag may have unchangeable data. In such alternative situations, a combination of read-only tags may need to be assigned or attached to a particular cassette to fully represent its information content. A cassette may also have a combination of read-only and programmable tags.
Each media cassette in an automated banking machine can be equipped with an RFID tag. A reader device is operative to remotely read the tag data. The reader device may be associated with a dispenser feed channel. The reader is operative to read tag data while the tag is in physically contactless relationship with the machine. Thus, a tag reader can be spaced from the tag. It follows that communication between a cassette information tag and an ATM can occur without requiring physical contact, which would occur with the use of previously discussed buttons.
When a cassette having an RFID tag is inserted into a dispenser feed channel of a machine, reader circuitry associated with the dispenser feed channel can interrogate the tag to receive information about the particular cassette. The reader circuitry may comprise a circuit card assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, a tag may be of a type that does not need a power source (e.g., battery), but lives on the RF energy provided by the reader. The information exchanged between an RFID tag and a reader may be encrypted to provide additional security. Thus, a reader may comprise a decoder in decoding circuitry.
Contactless (and wireless) technology can also be used to indicate to the automated banking machine the presence of a cassette, a properly positioned cassette in a dispenser channel, and/or a media (e.g., money) low condition. A cassette latched condition may also be indicated. That is, buttons which are operative to indicate the latching position of a cassette may also be replaced in using a contactless cassette.
In an exemplary embodiment the sensing of the position of a cassette may be implemented by using one or more sensors. Although not limited thereto, low cost, high accuracy Eddy current type distance sensors may be used. A sensor can be part of a sensor circuit associated with a dispenser feed channel. A target (e.g., a metal target such as Ferrite) or indicator member can be attached to or embedded into a cassette (which may comprise plastic). The sensor is operative to accurately measure the distance between the indicator member (e.g., target) and the sensor (or another object). A cassette may be determined to be properly positioned in a machine (or a work station) if the target is sensed to be within a predetermined or acceptable range of the sensor. That is, a cassette may be deemed properly positioned if it is determined to be close enough to the sensor. A machine processor can determine from the sensor data whether the cassette is properly positioned. One or more targets and/or sensors may be used. Likewise, a contactless target/sensor arrangement can be used to determine if a cassette is properly positioned in a work station.
A contactless sensor arrangement may also be used to determine a low media condition in a cassette. The arrangement can be similar to an arrangement for sensing cassette position. A movable target (e.g., Ferrite) can be associated with a cassette instead of a button. A low media sensor can be used to corresponding measure the distance between the target and the sensor. One or more targets and/or sensors may be used. A target reaching a particular position can be indicative of low media (e.g., money) remaining in the cassette. The accuracy requirement for a low media sensor may be less than that for a cassette position sensor. For example, a low media target may be closer when sensed (e.g., may have been moved closer prior to sensing). Therefore, a low media sensor arrangement may be capable of using a smaller moving target. Alternatively, a highly accurate sensor/target arrangement may be used, such as in attempting to determine the exact number of notes or bills remaining in a cassette.
A low media target may be mechanically moved progressively in response to spring pressure or other mechanisms. For example, the target may be attached to or embedded in a push plate (e.g., currency follower plate) of a cassette.
As previously discussed, an RFID tag may include data representative of a cassette and its content. For example, an RFID tag may include data reflective of currency code, currency denomination, and the unique serial number of the cassette.
In an exemplary embodiment, an automated banking machine can be operative to read an RFID tag to obtain the initial or current amount of currency in a cassette. The machine may also be operative to keep a running count of the currency currently in a cassette. This may be accomplished by keeping a record of the number of bills initially in a cassette minus the bills removed from the cassette.
An automated banking machine can be operatively connected to other machines on a network (e.g., an ATM banking network, which may include the Internet). In an exemplary embodiment the network can track information (e.g., currency data) related to a particular cassette by recognizing its unique serial number. It follows that the network can ascertain information (e.g., currency data) related to a particular machine. It further follows that the network can ascertain information (e.g., currency data) related to each machine in the network. The network information (e.g., currency data) can be updated periodically or continuously. For example, the network information can be in real time.
The network may include one or more computers. An automated banking machine may have at least one computer. The network may includes a host which can communicate with each machine. The communication may involve the Internet and/or a proprietary network.
The tracking ability enables a customer (e.g., a host bank) to know the exact amount of currency (e.g., amount, value, types, etc.) circulating within their ATM banking system or network. The arrangement enables a network operator to provide better cash management. Machine currency amounts can be adjusted accordingly, e.g., currency can be added or removed from the system. Currency of a particular denomination can be ordered. Thus, cash management, cash replenishment control, and banking network efficiency can be enhanced.
The ability to track individual cassettes via their serial number permits improved network efficiency. For example, problem cassettes can be identified. A particular cassette may be linked or associated with a certain number of failures. These failures may have involved different machines. That is, the same cassette can be linked to failures in various machines. Tracking of the particular cassette enables it to be identified for maintenance, repair, or replacement.
An RFID tag may also include trackable data. For example, certain data may be reflective of the entity (person or persons) responsible for handling a cassette, including the entity who loaded the cassette. Thus, particular cassettes can be linked to particular entities. Thus, the ability to track individual cassettes in a banking network can enable security to be improved.
RFID tags can be operative to read, log (store), and report the cassette data. All actions associated with a cassette can be logged into an RFID tag. For example, RFID tags may be used in providing trackable information relating to cassette serial number, cassette ownership, currency nationality, currency denomination, currency length, currency height, currency thickness, loaded currency amount, times, dates, handler ID, machine serial number, cassette age, repair records, etc.
The use of RF can eliminate mechanical contact between cassettes and dispenser feed channels. Of course the use of radio frequency is one example of non-contacting remote communication. It should be understood that other types of non-contacting information communication may be used instead of (or in additional to) radio frequency or radio waves.
A cassette may also have an electronic lock. For example, a cassette may have an electronic keypad lock. The electronic keypad lock may replace (or be in addition to) a key lock. Each unique cassette can have a different access code or combination. The code of an electronic lock cassette can be changed.
An electronic lock cassette can be equipped with a battery pack. The battery pack can be charged in a non-contacting manner. For example, the cassette can have an inductive charging port associated with the battery. The battery can be recharged via the inductive charging port.
A locking arrangement can include a locking latch, such as a bar or lever. A latch bar can be movable between a locking position and a non-locking position. A latch bar in a locking position can prevent the cassette from being opened. An electronic lock cassette can use a drive device to operate the latch bar. For example, a solenoid or motor can be used to drive the locking latch bar. The drive device can operate off of a battery.
An electronic programmable keypad can be used with an electronic lock of a cassette. The keypad can be programmed to receive multiple cassette access codes. That is, more than one access code or combination may be able to unlock the cassette. Additionally, plural access codes may need to be entered to unlock a cassette. For example, a user ID followed by a password may be needed for gaining entry to the interior of a cassette. Furthermore, codes or IDs entered into a keypad can be recorded (e.g., stored in a memory) by the electronic lock. Dates and times of access (or attempted access) can also be recorded. Thus, an audit trail of cassette access can be recorded.
After a key code is entered (or a sequence of codes) then the cassette can be unlocked. A solenoid or motor can be engaged or driven by a battery. The solenoid can operate to move a latch bar from a locking position to an open position. The cassette can then be opened, such as by opening the cassette lid or cover. The opening, loading, and closing of a cassette can be performed manually. In alternative handling arrangements the functions of opening, loading, and closing of a cassette may be performed by a cassette handling machine.
An electronic locking arrangement can increase security in comparison to mechanical key locks. The use of tangible keys can be eliminated. Each cassette can have a different access code. Thus, loss of a single code would not endanger other cassettes. Furthermore, the access code of a cassette can be changed. For example, a cassette may have its access code changed upon each entry therein. An electronic lock may also be arranged to prevent closure of a cassette until its access code is changed.
Upon closing a cassette cover or lid, the cover may be automatically locked. Mechanical arrangements for automatically locking a latch bar may be used. For example, a latch bar may be spring actuated so that closure of the cover returns the latch bar to a locking position. Alternatively, the latch bar may be driven to a locking position by a drive device. A cassette may also have a visual indicator (e.g., LED display) denoting locked and unlocked conditions. Alternatively, a contactless sensor arrangement (as previously discussed) may be used to sense whether a cassette latch bar is in (or has been moved to) a locking position.
A cassette may be opened at a work station tray. In an alternative embodiment, a tray is operative to remotely communicate with a cassette to unlock the cassette. For example, as an additional layer of security, a cassette may be without an external keypad thereon. Programmable locking buttons can be arranged on the tray. The buttons can be operated to receive an access code to open a cassette. The access code can be operative to trip a solenoid to drive the latch bar to an unlocking position. A tray can also have an LCD panel for displaying cassette content information or information relating to an access code.
As previously discussed, media (e.g., currency, coupons, etc.) which is to be inserted into a cassette can vary in dimensions. For example, the length, width, and height of currency notes may vary from one country to another. The sizes of different denomination currency notes may also vary within the same country. However, media needs to be properly arranged within a cassette so that it can be properly removed by a picker mechanism. The size (e.g., height) of a particular type of media may limit its use to a particular sized cassette. Thus, different sized media may require corresponding different sized cassettes. It follows that a large number of different cassette configurations may be needed.
An exemplary embodiment is directed to a cassette that can be used with different types and sizes of media. The total number of cassette configurations can be reduced. Thus, costs can be reduced, parts count can be reduced, and reliability can be improved.
A single cassette of the exemplary embodiment can have different configurations. The cassette can be adjustable to contain different sized media. The cassette can have a rail system. The rail system can have one or more adjacent rails. For example, generally parallel rails may be spaced from each other in a direction generally perpendicular to their axes. The rail system can be adjustable. For example, the height of a rail may be adjustable. That is, a rail may be adjustable in the vertical direction. Hence, the same cassette can be adjusted to hold currency of a first height and currency of a second height.
A rail assembly can include a rail, cap, and/or spacer. For example, a rail assembly may have only a rail. Another rail assembly may have a rail and a cap (e.g., cover). A further rail assembly may have a rail and a spacer (or spacers) and a cap.
A cap is operative or adapted to be arranged adjacent a rail. A cap can be operatively connected to a rail. A cap can be removably connected to a rail. A cap can be used to extend the (vertically downward) height or distance of a rail assembly. A cap can be arranged to engage the top of media in a cassette. Of course a gap may be left between the media and the cap for play and/or to allow the media to slide (e.g., due to a pusher plate) relative to the cap.
A spacer is operative to be arranged adjacent a rail. A spacer is operative or adapted to be arranged intermediate or between a rail and a cap. A spacer can be operatively connected to both a rail and a cap. A spacer can be removably connected to a rail, or to a cap, or to both a rail and a cap. One or more spacers can be used to extend the (vertical) height of a rail assembly. That is, a rail assembly may have a plurality of spacers removably arranged intermediate a rail and a cap.
A rail can be integrally connected (e.g., fastened or of one-piece) to a cassette lid. A rail may be removably connected to a lid enabling the usage of different sized rails with the same lid. Thus, a rail assembly can be removably connected to a cassette lid.
With a cassette lid in a closed position, a rail assembly may be arranged to engage or abut media in the cassette. For example, a cassette currency note securement arrangement may have a cassette floor portion, currency notes engaging (e.g., resting on) the floor portion, a cap adapted to limit vertical movement of the notes, a spacer connected to the cap, a rail connected to the spacer, and the rail connected to the cassette lid. Of course, a rail assembly may be arranged in other note positioning configurations or combinations. For example, a note securement arrangement may have currency notes resting on a rail assembly.
Respective rails, caps, and spacers can be of different types, materials, shapes, and dimensions. Thus, a large assortment of different rail systems can be arranged in a sole cassette. For example, a rail and a cap may each have a generally U-shaped body with a substantially flat spacer therebetween. Furthermore, a rail/spacer/cap relationship of a first assembly may have a thickness different from a rail/spacer/cap relationship of a second assembly.
A rail assembly may be secured together by a fastener or connector. The fastener may be removable.
It should also be understood that rail assembly components (e.g., rail, spacer, and cap) may also have corresponding tongue and groove engagements for additional fastening and/or stability. A connection between two rail assembly components may be similar to a LEGO® block type of connection. For example, a spacer may have one or more tongues (or projections) on one side and one or more grooves (or slots) on the opposite side. The tongues of a first spacer could be aligned with the grooves of a second spacer to enable fastening engagement therebetween. Other manners of attachment, connection, or fastening may also be used.
In an exemplary embodiment a fastener may comprise resilient or flexible tabs or fingers (e.g., cantilever tabs). The fastener can be adapted to extend through aligned apertures (or holes or openings) in rail assembly components. The cantilever tabs can snap or expand outwardly into locking relation with the underside of a rail. A fastener may also have a head at an opposite end. The head may be adapted for tool engagement. The head may have a groove or projection to assist in fastener insertion and/or removal. When the fastener is in operative securing or locking position, the head can be flush with or recessed from the surface of a cap.
In alternative embodiments a cap may be biased (such as by a spring) toward engagement with a media stack. For example, a spring loaded cap may be in continuous supporting engagement with media.
The ability to create different rail assembly configurations enables the use of a standard or common or universal sized cassette for various sized media stacks. Thus, a universal cassette can be adjusted to fit various sized media. A cassette may be operative to act in a “one size fits all” manner. The same cassette can be reconfigured to hold currency of different sizes.
The media height M12 of
Of course either the same height rail or rails of differing heights may be used in
Sometimes a cassette may be overloaded with media. That is, too much media was inserted into a cassette. A media overloaded cassette can lead to problems. For example, note jams, double notes, picking malfunctions, and cassette component wear may be associated with an overloaded cassette.
An exemplary embodiment prevents or reduces the use of a media overloaded (or overstuffed) cassette. In the exemplary embodiment a cassette lid can be prevented from closing if the cassette is overloaded with media.
A member or arm is adapted to be positioned in a cassette adjacent to a media stack. The arm may be resilient. The arm can be operative to bend or flex or tilt responsive to a force caused by the media stack of an overloaded cassette. That is, the arm can be operative to flex responsive to an overloaded media stack. For example, the arm can bend away from the stack.
The arm may be a separate component attached to the cassette. Alternatively, the arm may be attached to or integral (e.g., of one-piece) with a cassette component, such as a media stack push plate. The arm may be a push plate.
A push plate can have a resilient arm or portion extending from a base of the plate. That is, the plate can have a (lower) base portion thicker (and stronger) than an upper (tip) portion as taken in a cross-section view thereof. For example, a push plate taken in cross-section can have a pyramidal shape. Of course other shapes may also be used. The base can be secured in the cassette to resist movement by an overloaded media stack. However, the upper portion (e.g., resilient arm) can be operative to flex due to an overloaded media stack. A pusher plate component (e.g., a pusher plate tip) can flex away from the overloaded media due to the media pressing there against.
A cassette lid can have a rib (engagement portion, projection, tab, ledge, or catch) attached thereto or integral (e.g., of one-piece) therewith. The lid rib can be adapted to engage (or abut) a resilient arm when the arm is in a flexed (and engageable) position or condition. The engagement can prevent the lid from proceeding toward a closed position. Thus, the engagement can prevent the lid from being closed. With the lid prevented from closure, the individual loading or handling the cassette can access the situation and remove excess media. The arrangement can provide overstuff prevention or protection. With the arm in a non-flexed condition, the lid is operative to be closed.
In an alternative cassette overstuff protection arrangement, the contact of a rib with a flexed arm can cause generation of an output signal. For example, the contact can trip an electrical switch. An LED on the cassette or another type of output can be used to indicate to a loader an overloaded condition. In a further alternative arrangement the bending of the flex arm can be detected to cause generation of an output signal. For example, stress may be measurable in the arm. At a predetermined stress level an LED may be operated. The tripping of an LED may also cause information relating to the overloading (e.g., a loader's identification) to be stored in memory, such as in cassette memory.
An exemplary embodiment is directed to increasing security for media cassettes, such as currency cassettes in an automated banking machine. A security system may use biometric features in granting access to the currency cassettes.
In an exemplary embodiment, authorization and/or identification of an individual attempting to service an automated banking machine may be determined based on the individual's appearance and/or voice characteristics and/or other biometric information and/or card information. Hence, biometric features may be used to identify the individual. The use of biometric features may be accomplished in the manner disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,023,688, the disclosure of which is fully incorporated herein by reference. For example, a security system may be configured to identify a user by a biometric input such as facial recognition, thumbprint, iris scan, voice (speech) recognition, or other characteristics or combinations thereof.
A security system may use facial recognition software in combination with a camera. The camera can be mounted to an ATM. The camera may also be used for customers using the ATM for transactions, or the camera may be separate therefrom. The camera can be an internally mounted USB video camera. The camera can be used to capture an image (e.g., digital image) of an individual (or entity) attempting to service or replenish the machine.
An ATM can have a locally held database of individuals or access to a network accessed database of individuals. The individuals in the database are authorized to be granted access to a security container (or area) of the machine. The security container can have the currency cassettes located therein. Facial recognition software can be used to determine or check (e.g., verify or confirm or deny) whether an individual exists in an authorized database. A processor can operate the software to compare a captured image to images in a database. The captured image may be represented by data corresponding thereto. Likewise, the database may include data representative of images. Thus, a comparison may include comparing data which corresponds to images. The software may be operated locally or through the network. That is, the comparison may be carried out locally or at a remote location.
Access to the security container may be controlled by a lock control device. The lock control device can be operatively connected with the facial recognition software. The lock control device can be changed to open the security container under different scenarios. For example, if an individual is positively identified by the facial recognition software, then the lock control device may permit direct access to (e.g., unlock or open) the security container.
Additionally, an ATM may have a dual combination lock (e.g., an electronic lock) associated with the security container. The lock control device may be arranged or programmed to receive two correct combinations or codes in order for the dual combination electronic lock to be placed in an unlocked condition. If an individual is positively identified the facial recognition software, then the lock control device may be arranged to automatically bypass the need for one of the two combinations. That is, a recognized individual may only need to enter only one combination. In such a scenario the servicing individual would still need to enter the second combination in order to gain access to the security container. Nevertheless, such an access arrangement may facilitate or quicken access to a secure area. Thus, the time necessary to replenish an ATM may be reduced.
In addition, a facial image of the service personnel can be recorded and stored in a database by the software application. Other data, such as the time and date of the granted access, may also be stored along with the facial image. The facial image may also be uploaded to a centralized database for centralized storage. A centralized processor may perform auditing functions using the approved facial image. For example, an authorized database may be updated with the approved facial image. That is, the approved new facial image may be used to replace an outdated facial image.
The serial number of a particular cassette may also be recorded and stored in the database along with the facial image of the individual having access to (or servicing) the particular cassette. Likewise, each cassette may have associated therewith a memory data file. A cassette data file may also include the serial number, the facial image data of individuals who were granted access thereto, and the dates and times.
The ability to capture image data of an individual servicing a particular cassette, and the ability to store the image data in correlated relation with other information (e.g., cassette serial number) can further facilitate cassette tracking and minimize fraud. The arrangement permits cradle to grave tracking of a cassette regarding access thereto. The information relating to cassette access can be combined with additional security tracking information (e.g., as previously discussed) regarding a particular cassette. The ability to track and use information for particular cassettes may be accomplished in the manner disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,109,522, the disclosure of which is fully incorporated herein by reference. Furthermore, a system for image capture and delivery functions may be of the type disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 09/991,748 filed Nov. 23, 2001, the disclosure of which is fully incorporated herein by reference. The system may include a Diebold AccuTrack™ digital video arrangement which is commercially available from Diebold, Incorporated, the assignee of the present invention.
Furthermore, with an ATM having a dual combination electronic lock, a person not entered in an authorized database can be required to enter both combinations to gain access. A record of such access by unauthorized persons can also be made. The record may include an image of the person along with the time and date, and the unrecognized combination.
A security system can be arranged so that only a small population of approved and registered service personnel can gain immediate access to a security container of an ATM. To further increase security, facially-recognized personnel may be required to also enter a correct combination to gain security container access. To increase security even further, facially-recognized personnel may be required to also correctly enter plural combinations to gain access to a security container. Other biometric features may also be required prior to granting access.
Other access arrangements may also be used. For example, requiring service personnel to provide a combination also allows the service personnel the opportunity to signal a silent alarm. The alarm may be tripped upon entry of a predetermined combination code or alarm password. Of course, a non-combination trip device may also be used.
Also, if the facial recognition software does not recognize an individual attempting to gain access to an automated banking machine (and/or an improper combination is entered), then a silent alarm could be tripped. The facial image of the non-recognized individual may also be stored in a database along with the date and time.
The security arrangement can also provide the ability to track access to a security container. For example, the individual granted access, along with the time and date, can be stored in a data file for future reference. Of course other data may also be stored in the data file, such as the amount of time that the individual had the security container open.
Alternative security systems may use facial recognition (and/or other biometric related) software for other applications. For example, a security system may be arranged for a cassette work station. For example, the camera 366 at the work station 370 of
In an exemplary embodiment a media dispenser (or some other component) of an automated banking machine may include a reject bin. The reject bin may comprise a specialized cassette or canister. The specialized cassette is operative to receive and store therein both diverted and retracted media. Diverted media (e.g., currency or notes or bills) can be that which was determined to have some type of problem (e.g., an unacceptable media condition) by the automated banking machine and is not to be presented to a customer (e.g., unpresentable media). Retracted media can be that which was presented to a customer of the automated banking machine but for some reason was not taken by the customer.
The specialized cassette (which may be referred herein as a reject cassette or a divert/retract cassette or a divert cassette) can have more than one compartment for media storage. The compartments can be separated by one or more partitions. Thus, diverted notes can be stored separately from retracted notes. A divert cassette can be inserted into an automated banking machine (e.g., ATM) in an empty condition (e.g., the compartments devoid of media).
Both diverted notes and the retracted notes can enter a divert cassette through a common media receiving opening of the divert cassette. A partition (e.g., compartment guide) can be operative to direct or guide media (e.g., notes) to different respective compartments (e.g., media storage areas) as the media enters the divert cassette. A partition can be actuated by a lever or cam associated with the divert cassette. Movement of a partition can be controlled by a machine controller, such as an ATM computer. The machine controller can be operative to keep a record of the notes placed in each compartment. The machine controller can also be operative to correlate retracted notes to a specific user account. Other information (e.g., date and time) concerning storage of notes in a divert cassette can also be stored by the machine controller in memory.
In an exemplary embodiment a divert cassette has two compartments or storage areas separated by a partition. In a first position (e.g., closed position) of the partition, the divert cassette is operative to receive diverted currency notes. For example, a diverted note may have been unidentifiable or detected as a double bill. The machine is operative to store diverted notes in a divert storage area of the divert/retract cassette.
In a second position (e.g., open position) of the partition, the divert cassette is operative to receive retracted currency notes. For example, a note or stack of notes presented to a customer may be retracted by the machine after a predetermined time period. The machine is operative to store retracted notes in a retract storage area of the divert/retract cassette. Thus, a divert/retract cassette can have dual note storage areas separated by a movable partition.
The separation of note storage areas prevents the mixing of retracted and diverted notes.
The note separating arrangement of a divert cassette allows for enhanced reconciling of notes in daily transactions. For example, an allegation by an ATM user as not having received notes during a transaction can be confirmed or denied by reviewing the notes held in the retract storage area. The comparison can be accomplished with a reduction in note handling, e.g., without involving diverted notes. Thus, the resolving of transaction discrepancies can be simplified. The separation of notes can also be used in detecting a malfunctioning machine or component thereof.
A partition can be moved between open and closed positions by movement of a lever (or cam). The lever can be operatively connected to a drive link which in turn is operatively connected to the partition. The lever can be actuated by a drive mechanism in a dispenser of a machine. The drive mechanism can be operative to engage and move the lever to correspondingly move the partition. A conventional drive mechanism can be used for driving a lever. For example, a drive mechanism may include a drive motor or cylinder or solenoid. In a partition drive arrangement a motor may cause a lever to pivot or rotate which results in movement of the partition. In another partition drive arrangement a cylinder may cause a cam to move in a sliding direction (e.g., axially or horizontally) which also results in movement of the partition. A machine controller can be operative to operate a drive mechanism to move the lever or cam. Thus, a machine controller can be operative to control movement of a partition to keep diverted and retracted notes separated from each other in the same storage container or device.
A separator, such as a plate or sheet (which may be flexible), may also be used to separate note storage areas or compartments. The separator can be fixed or movable. The partition may include the separator. A separator may be attached to the partition. The separator may be flexible and/or retractable. For example, a partition component may be able to pivot relative to a separator. Also, a partition portion may be able to slide relative to a separator and be guided by the separator. A partition can have a separator attached thereto or integral (e.g., of one-piece) therewith.
A separator can be generally horizontally positioned at a vertical level to vertically separate upper and lower compartments. The divert compartment can be an upper compartment (e.g., above the separator) and the retract compartment can be a lower compartment (e.g., below the separator). Of course the divert and retract compartments may be switched. Additionally, compartments may have guides to assist in guiding, directing, positioning, and/or maintaining media placed therein.
An alternative arrangement may have a separator arranged in a generally vertical position to horizontally separate adjacent compartments (e.g., front and rear compartments). Adjacent compartments may also be offset by different angles. It should also be understood that a divert cassette can have a divert storage area and a retract storage area of different sizes. For example, a retract storage area may be of a larger size than a divert storage area in order to receive retracted stacks of notes (in comparison to individual notes which may be placed in a divert storage area).
The lever and a partition arm are connected or linked together about a common axis, such as the axis of an elongated connecting member (e.g., rod or shaft). For example, a common shaft can connect the lever to a partition arm 512. Alternatively, the lever may be integral with an arm. Pivotable rotation of the lever 504 about its axis is operative to axially rotate the arm (connected to the lever). The arms are connected via the bridge. The partition guide is connected to the bridge. Thus, pivotable rotation of the lever is operative to pivot the partition 502 between open and closed positions.
The partition arms can be of a shape (e.g., generally triangular) which assists in support of the partition in both open and closed positions. For example, an arm may have a first edge 516 on one engaging side thereof and a second edge 518 on an opposite engaging side thereof. The arm edges may be arranged to engage a portion (or component) of the cassette to assist in supporting the partition in a respective open or closed position.
The partition bridge 528 has comblike teeth (or forks) 520 which are operative to engage a cassette wall 522 adjacent the media receiving opening of the cassette. The cassette wall has grooves (or slots) 524 which are adapted to receive the teeth in engaging relationship. The slots can guide the teeth (and thus the partition bridge) into a proper open position. The teeth/groove arrangement can be operative to provide alignment or support or stability to the partition bridge when the partition is in the open position. The partition bridge 528 also has teeth (or projections) 534 which are adapted to engage a cassette wall portion when the partition is in a closed position. The projections 534 can likewise provide alignment or support or stability to the partition bridge when the partition is in the closed position.
In the embodiment of
The lever 504 can be driven to pivot. Pivoting of the lever causes pivoting of the partition arms and the bridge. Pivoting of the bridge causes the partition to move from a closed position (
In an exemplary operation an automated banking machine (e.g, an ATM) has at least one divert cassette therein. The divert cassette includes dual storage compartments. The divert cassette includes a diverted currency storage area and a retracted currency storage area. The machine is operative to perform a financial transaction for a customer. For example, the machine may perform a cash withdrawal transaction. The machine can determine whether currency has an acceptable or an unacceptable currency condition. The determination may include a conventional currency bill sensor or reader (e.g., double bill sensor, dirty bill sensor, counterfeit bill sensor, torn bill sensor, unreadable bill sensor, currency validator and/or counterfeit detector, or a combination thereof). Unacceptable currency can be diverted and transported for storage in the diverted media storage area of the divert cassette. Acceptable currency can be transported through the machine and presented to a customer (e.g., the customer requesting the cash withdrawal transaction) at a customer accessible currency outlet. However, the machine is operative to retract any remaining currency previously presented to a customer after a predetermined time period. The machine is operative to transport the retracted currency for storage in the retracted currency storage area of the divert cassette.
Of course, it should be understood that other partition and/or lever drive arrangements may be used. For example, a partition may be operatively connected or linked to a slidable drive cam. A drive arrangement may operate to slide the cam to cause corresponding movement (e.g., pivoting) of the partition. Thus, other drive arrangements, such as a sliding drive arrangement, may be used for moving a partition. Additionally, electrical, magnetic, screw, and mechanical actuation arrangements (or combinations thereof) for driving a partition may also be used.
A machine (e.g., ATM) controller may also be able to determine when a compartment of a divert cassette is full or needs servicing. A divert cassette may have a media-high indicator which is operative to be actuated when the media reaches a predetermined level. A media-high indicator may operate on the principles similar to those of a media-low indicator, which have been previously discussed. A divert cassette may have a media-high indicator for each storage compartment. A machine can be operative to read an actuated or tripped media-high indicator. Upon determining a divert cassette compartment as full, one or more signals may be sent from the machine to authorized personnel indicative of the divert cassette condition or status. Alternatively, if one compartment of a dual compartment cassette is determined as full, then the machine controller may be programmed to feed both divert and retract notes to the other non full compartment. It should also be understood that the embodiments (e.g., RFID tags, etc.) discussed in this application relating to media cassettes may also be applied to divert cassettes.
In an exemplary embodiment a divert cassette includes a self-locking arrangement for a partition. A divert cassette partition can be automatically locked during removal from a machine and unlocked while inserted a machine. A resilient member (e.g., spring) and lock can be located on an outboard non-drive link side of a divert cassette. That is, the spring and lock can be located on a cassette side opposite to the drive link side (which can have the previously discussed partition lever). Thus, the partition drive and the partition locking arrangement can be situated such that they do not interfere with each other.
The torsion spring 538 exerts a biasing force toward having the partition in the closed position. The torsion spring attempts to keep the partition in a closed position. That is, the normal position of the J-shaped arm of the torsion spring is shown in
As the divert cassette is inserted into a media dispenser, the projection button 550 engages a dispenser feed channel component. This engagement is operative to move the lock arm 542 relatively toward the torsion spring. Movement of the lock arm a predetermined distance is operative to enable release of the torsion spring from the lock. That is, movement of the lock button 550 is able to overcome the force of the lock spring 548 to move the lock arm 542. During unlocking, the lock arm is moved toward the torsion spring far enough to allow release or disengagement of the torsion spring hook from the lock hook.
With the cassette fully inserted into the dispenser, the lock arm is in an unlocked position (
During removal of a divert cassette from a dispenser, the outside drive for the partition becomes disengaged from the partition (e.g., becomes disengaged from the partition lever). With the outside drive no longer controlling movement of the partition, the partition is free to pivot. Thus, the torsion spring can move (i.e., spring back) to place the partition in its closed position (as shown in
With the partition in its closed position the lever can be correspondingly in its horizontal position (or alternatively some other corresponding position). Upon extraction of the cassette from a machine the lever is locked in its horizontal position. Thus, when the cassette is again inserted into a machine its lever can be in a proper position (or alignment) to engage with a partition drive. With the divert cassette removed from an automated banking machine, an authorized user can remove notes from the divert and retract storage areas. Notes may be removed after disengaging the partition lock mechanism.
In an exemplary operation the locking status of a partition (e.g., compartment guide) of an automated banking machine cassette can be automatically changed responsive to movement of the cassette relative to the automated banking machine. That is, the partition is operative to be locked or unlocked. Subsequently, the locking status of the partition can again be automatically changed responsive to opposite movement of the cassette relative to the automated banking machine.
In certain arrangements the notes may be removed with the partition locked in the closed position. For example, the separator may be partly lifted upon removal of the cassette lid. Because the partition is kept in its closed position, a user can be prevented from closing the cassette (i.e., closing the lid) with the partition in the open position (which can be the wrong lever position for lever/drive engagement during insertion into a machine). A divert cassette partition can be locked while out of a machine and unlocked while in a machine. The locking arrangement allows a divert cassette to remain in operable condition.
In an alternative embodiment a partition lever may be arranged with a dispenser (or an outside drive mechanism) such that during removal of the divert cassette from the dispenser the lever is automatically returned to an exit position to place the partition in its closed position. Further removal of the cassette would result in locking of the partition in its closed position. In the embodiment the partition would be free to open and close under no load from a torsion spring.
Card slot 584 is used to input a card with encoded data thereon that is usable to identify the customer and/or the customer's account information. Card slot 584 is connected to a card reader input device for reading data encoded on the card. The machine may also include other input devices such as biometric readers that may be operative to receive customer identifying inputs such as fingerprints, iris scans, retina scans, face topography data, voice data, or other inputs that provide data that is usable to identify a user. An example of an ATM that uses biometric input devices and other types of input devices is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,023,688 the disclosure of which has been fully incorporated herein by reference.
Keypad 586 includes a plurality of keys which may be actuated by a customer to provide inputs to the machine. Function keys 588 permit a customer to respond to screen prompts. The display 590 may be a touch screen display which enables outputs through displays on the screen and enables customers to provide inputs by placing a finger adjacent to areas of the screen. Outlet 594 can also be used to receive other items from ticket printing mechanisms, check printing mechanisms, and other devices that operate to apply indicia to media in the course of performing transactions carried out with the machine. It should be understood that these features of the described ATM user interface are exemplary and in other embodiments the user interface may include different components and/or features and/or arrangements. For example, a different arrangement may have the locations of the receipt outlet slot and the mini statement outlet switched. Likewise with switching the card slot and the receipt outlet slot.
Thus the new and improved automated banking machine features achieve at least one of the above stated objectives, eliminate difficulties encountered in the use of prior devices and systems, solve problems, and attain the desirable results described herein.
In the foregoing description certain terms have been used for brevity, clarity and understanding, however no unnecessary limitations are to be implied therefrom because such terms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly construed. Moreover, the descriptions and illustrations herein are by way of examples and the invention is not limited to the details shown and described.
In the following claims any feature described as a means for performing a function shall be construed as encompassing any means capable of performing the recited function, and shall not be limited to the structures shown herein or mere equivalents thereof.
Having described the features, discoveries and principles of the invention, the manner in which it is constructed and operated, and the advantages and useful results attained; the new and useful structures, devices, elements, arrangements, parts, combinations, systems, equipment, operations, methods, processes and relationships are set forth in the appended claims.
This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/788,605 filed Feb. 27, 2004, which is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/750,571 filed Dec. 30, 2003, which claims the benefits of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/437,636 filed Dec. 31, 2002 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/437,637 filed Dec. 31, 2002; and U.S. application Ser. No. 10/788,605 claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/451,085 filed Feb. 28, 2003; and the disclosures of each Application are incorporated herein by reference.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60437636 | Dec 2002 | US | |
| 60437637 | Dec 2002 | US | |
| 60450984 | Feb 2003 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 10788605 | Feb 2004 | US |
| Child | 11805747 | May 2007 | US |
| Parent | 10750571 | Dec 2003 | US |
| Child | 10788605 | Feb 2004 | US |
