Information
-
Patent Grant
-
6578695
-
Patent Number
6,578,695
-
Date Filed
Wednesday, September 20, 200023 years ago
-
Date Issued
Tuesday, June 17, 200321 years ago
-
Inventors
-
Original Assignees
-
Examiners
- Walsh; Donald P.
- Beauchaine; Mark J
Agents
- Rankin, Hill, Porter & Clark LLP
-
CPC
-
US Classifications
Field of Search
US
- 194 206
- 194 350
- 271 314
- 271 278
- 271 306
- 271 182
-
International Classifications
-
Abstract
The device for the processing of bank notes has a modular design. It has at least one inlet (311) and at least one outlet (361,1, 361.2). The device contains a fixed part (1) and interchangeable mobile modules (31-36) each for performing a complete processing function upon the bank note-like objects to be processed. The modules (31-36) arc insertable into the fixed part (1) in such a manner, that a desired work sequence for processing the bank notes is performable. To such an extent as is possible, electric lines, components and motors (41) are mounted on the fixed part (1); the forces and/or torques required by the modules (31-36) are transmitted to the modules by means of transmission (51,1, 52.1). The modules (31-36) are pluggable into pins (2.1, 2.2, . . . ) attached to the fixed part (1), so that they are easily insertable, removable or interchangeable. The modules (31-36) are selectable from a set of different modules and are combinable in almost any possible manner, so that with this a multitude of freely selectable processing sequences is implementable.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to a device that is suitable for reading, identifying, checking, verifying, examining, counting, sorting and/or stacking bank notes and/or bank note-like objects. Such “bank note-like objects” include bank notes, cheques, share certificates, documents with a security imprint, certificates, admission tickets or travel tickets, vouchers, credit cards, bank cards, identification cards, and access cards. The invention also relates to a contact pressure unit, a transport unit, a position sensor and a feeder device for processing bank note-like objects.
Devices for processing bank note-like objects are known. Such devices carry out processing functions such as feeding, separation, transporting, deflecting, rotating, reading, sorting or stacking on the bank note-like objects. For this purpose, the processing devices are equipped with complex mechanical, electronic and/or optical components. These components, during installation, have to be brought into the correct position relative to one another, in order to carry out a desired processing sequence faultlessly and without interruption. The device is usually conceived designed for a certain processing sequence; if other processing functions are to be carried out, a new, different device has to be conceived and designed or else at least the existing device modified at great expense. Apart from this, most components require an electric power supply, which usually is implemented with the help of expensive, complicated wiring inside the device. Such wiring makes the manufacture and the maintenance of the device more difficult, is confusing and susceptible to defects. The bank note-like objects to be processed frequently transfer dirt, ink and/or dust to the device. As a result, the operability of individual components or of the whole device (e.g., through jamming of the bank note-like objects) can be seriously impaired. In order to, in such a case, repair known devices for the processing of bank note-like objects, the devices have to be dismantled, the jammed objects removed, cleaned and re-assembled again, which requires a lot of time and effort.
In summary, the manufacture and maintenance of known devices for the processing of bank notes is usually associated with a relatively great effort and expense, which in turn leads to high manufacturing and operating costs.
Apart from this, known devices for the processing of bank notes are frequently equipped with unsuitably complicated and expensive contact pressure and/or transport units with position sensors susceptible to contamination with dirt and with unreliable feeder units that deform the bank note-like objects.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the invention to create a device for processing bank note-like objects, which avoids the above-mentioned disadvantages and which, in particular, has a clear design layout, can be easily and rapidly assembled and maintained and which is able to carry out a multitude of different processing sequences. It is also an object of the invention to create a simple, cost-effective contact pressure unit for the pressing of bank note-like objects against another element. It is furthermore an object of the invention to create a simple, cost-effective and defect-free transport unit for the transporting of bank note-like objects. Apart from this, it is an object of the invention to create a robust position sensor not susceptible to contamination with dirt for determining whether a bank note-like object at a certain time is in a certain position. Furthermore, it is an object of the invention to create a feeder unit for drawing-in individual bank note-like objects, in which the bank note-like objects are not deformed and which guarantees individualised processing of the bank note-like objects.
These objects are achieved by the device according to the present invention, the contact pressure unit in accordance with the invention, the transport unit in accordance with the invention, the position sensor in accordance with the invention, and the feeder unit in accordance with the invention.
Understood by the term “bank note-like objects” in this document are sheet-like, thin and usually bendable object with graphic printing, which represent a certain material value and, therefore, include bank notes in the actual sense and also other such objects. Examples of bank note-like objects are bank notes, bank cheques, share certificates, documents with a security imprint, certificates, admission tickets or travel tickets, vouchers, credit and/or bank cards, identity and/or access cards. When in this document “processing functions” are referred to, then the meaning is functions such as feeding, separating, individualising, transporting, reading, identifying, checking, verifying, examining, counting, sorting and/or stacking, which are carried out on the bank note-like objects. A “processing sequence” is composed of several such functions.
The invention is based on the idea of designing a device for processing bank note-like objects in a modular way. The different completed processing functions are carried out by independent modules. Such modules are interchangeable mobile components, which can be utilised in a fixed part of the device such that a desired operating sequence for the processing of bank note-like objects is implementable. The modules have standardised interfaces, at which the bank note-like objects are transferred from one module to the next. The device has to be designed such that the interfaces are positioned correctly relative to one another and such that transfers of bank note-like objects are possible when modules are installed in the device. The modules are selectable from a set of different modules and can be combined in almost any manner, so that with this a multitude of freely selectable processing sequences can be implemented.
The modules can easily be inserted into the device in accordance with the invention, for example, by plugging in or hooking on and can be equally easily removed and interchanged. Such a modular design therefore assures an exceedingly simple assembly and maintenance of the device. It also makes possible a rapid and easy changing of the desired processing sequence in that modules are easily added, removed, moved and/or exchanged. The device in accordance with the invention is expandable or extendable according to the requirements of the user. The individual modules are robust, because they contain only a necessary minimum of delicate electric, electronic and/or optical elements that are susceptible to contamination with dirt. If possible, such delicate elements are located outside the modules, so that the communication between the modules and the rest of the device is limited to mechanical signals. The maintenance of the device is simple and quick, because as a result of the modularity a jam can easily be rectified and individual modules are easily cleaned. The modularity, however, produces benefits not only for the user, but also for the manufacturer. For example, redesigning the device in accordance with the invention is significantly simpler, because only certain components have to be modified, while others can be taken over from existing devices.
The device in accordance with the invention for the processing of bank note-like objects is preferably operated electrically and has at least one inlet as well as at least one outlet for the bank note-like objects. The device comprises a fixed part and interchangeable mobile components, whereby the mobile components are for carrying-out of respectively one complete processing function on the bank note-like objects to be processed. These modules can be installed in the fixed part such that between the at least one inlet and the at least one outlet a desired operating sequence for processing bank note-like objects can be implemented.
The fixed part of the device in accordance with the invention is preferably designed as a rigid supporting structure, for example, as a wall of the plate forming the device, a profile or as a grating of bars. The device preferably has mechanical means of connection, by means of which the modules can be fixed to the fixed part through a positive releasable mechanical connection. The modules, for example, can be plugged into or hooked onto the fixed part.
On the fixed part of the device in accordance with the invention drive means such as electric motors can be attached. In the mobile parts active means can be attached, which mechanically act on the bank note-like objects. Such means may be, for example, rollers for the transportation of the bank note-like objects. By means of transmission means, such as toothed (synchronous) belts, perforated wheels or perforated wheel rims, drawbars, levers, clutches, mechanical switches or shafts, forces and/or torques are transmittable to the active means from the drive means. It is advantageous not to incorporate the drive means in the mobile parts, but rather in the fixed part of the device. In this manner, one achieves a clear, consistent separation of the drive means and mobile parts. The separation has the advantage that the electric lines and components are attached to the fixed part in a clear layout, like on a printed circuit board of an electronic device, and can be more easily installed and maintained. Most mobile parts contain only mechanical components.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
These and further features of the invention will be apparent with reference to the following description and drawings, wherein:
FIG. 1
a perspective view from the front of the fixed part of the device in accordance with the invention,
FIG. 2
a perspective view from the back of the fixed part of the device in accordance with the invention of
FIG. 1
,
FIG. 3
a perspective view from the front of the partially opened device in accordance with the invention,
FIGS. 4 and 5
front views of details of the fixing means of modules in the device in accordance with the invention,
FIG. 6
a cross section through an interface between two modules of the device in accordance with the invention,
FIGS. 7-12
different modules for the utilization of the device in accordance with the invention,
FIGS. 13-14
a longitudinal view and a cross sectional view, respectively, through a transport unit in accordance with the invention,
FIGS. 15-16
longitudinal sections through a position sensor in accordance with the invention,
FIG. 17
a perspective view of the position sensor of
15
and
16
,
FIGS. 18-19
a longitudinal view and a cross sectional view, respectively, through a feeder unit and
FIG. 20
a perspective view of a device in accordance with the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The device in accordance with the invention contains a fixed part and interchangeable mobile parts.
FIG. 1
illustrates a perspective view of the fixed part
1
of the device. The fixed part
1
is preferably designed as an essentially rigid supporting structure, for example, as a plate, which simultaneously serves as the back wall of the device. For better orientation, in the Figures Cartesian co-ordinates (x, y, z) are included, whereby the plate
1
always defines the x-y plane. On the plate
1
, at the fixing points
20
.
1
20
.
2
, . . . pins
2
.
1
,
2
.
2
, . . . are attached. The pins, in essence, vertically protrude from a first side
11
of the plate
1
, therefore in z direction. These pins
2
.
1
,
2
.
2
, . . . are used for plugging-in interchangeable modules (not shown in FIG.
1
). On a first side
11
of the plate
1
other attachment points
20
.
51
,
20
.
52
, . . . for pins are foreseeable. Preferably, these other attachment points
20
.
51
,
20
.
52
. . . are arranged in a grid
21
, which is indicated in broken lines. The attachment of the pins
2
.
1
,
2
.
2
, . . . is effected with known means of attachment, such as, for example, screws.
On a first side
11
of the plate
1
elements are attached, which are necessary for the operation of the device. Such elements can be drive means
41
,
42
, transmission means
51
-
56
, electric lines, electric and/or electronic components. Drive means
41
,
42
produce forces and/or torques for the mechanical processing functions performed by the modules. For the processing function transportation, a single electric motor
41
is preferably present as a drive means. For the processing function sorting, at least one electromagnetic switch
42
is present as a second drive means. Means of transmission
51
-
56
transmit forces and/or torques from the drive means
40
,
41
into the modules and/or vice-versa. By the motor
41
toothed (synchronous) belts
51
.
1
,
51
.
2
are driven as first means of transmission. The toothed (synchronous) belts
51
.
1
,
51
.
2
run on deflection rollers
52
.
1
-
52
.
4
and move perforated wheels, resp., perforated wheel rims
53
.
1
,
53
.
2
, . . . , which are preferably equipped with tapered bores
54
. The bores
54
receive correspondingly formed pins
55
.
1
,
55
,
2
, . . . (illustrated in FIGS.
7
-
12
), which are attached to the modules movably or rotatably. The tapered shape renders the relative positioning when inserting a module more easy. By the electromagnetic switch
42
, a lever
56
is driven as a further means of transmission. Means of transmission can be (not illustrated) drawbars, clutches, mechanical switches, shafts, pinions, gears, chains, etc. In the device in accordance with the invention it is attempted if at all possible to only transmit mechanical signals from the plate
1
to the modules; this ensures a high robustness of the device.
A first type of electric lines
71
(
FIG. 2
) serves for the supply of electric power to the components, a second type of electric line
72
(
FIG. 1
) for the transmission of information between certain components; the two types of lines
71
,
72
can also coincide. For example, the switch
42
of the sorting module needs information from the reading modules in order to decide which stack a certain bank note is to be brought to. The information processing, for example the processing of data from and to the user, the identification or examination of bank notes, the calculation of run times, control of switches, etc., takes place in at least one electronic component, for example, a micro-processor
81
. For the reasons outlined further above, it is advantageous if at all possible to avoid the use of electric cables. For this purpose, on the first side of the plate preferably printed circuit boards
82
.
1
-
82
.
3
with sockets
83
are attached, into which corresponding plugs fixed to certain modules (not illustrated) can be plugged.
FIG. 2
shows a perspective view of the partially opened device of
FIG. 1
, but from the opposite or backside. On a second side
12
of the plate
1
further elements are attached which are necessary for the operation of the device. These can be means of transmission such as toothed (synchronous) belts
51
.
3
-
51
.
7
on deflection rollers
52
.
5
,
52
.
6
, . . . These can also be electric components, e.g., a power supply unit
84
, which supplies the voltage required by other elements, and/or a further printed circuit board
82
.
4
. It is advantageous, if as many elements as possible are attached to the second side
12
of the plate
1
. This is because it is more easily accessible so that during maintenance work not even modules have to be removed from their places.
FIG. 3
in the same perspective view as
FIG. 1
illustrates the plate
1
with inserted modules
31
-
36
. The modules
31
-
36
are interchangeable mobile parts, which can be inserted into the fixed part
1
of the device such that a desired operating sequence for the processing of the bank note-like objects (not shown on
FIG. 3
) can be carried out. In the example of
FIG. 3
, the desired operating sequence is as follows: the bank note-like objects, for example, different bank notes, initially are present in the form of a stack (not illustrated) in an inlet compartment
311
of an inlet and separating module
31
. The bank note-like objects are drawn into the device and separated from one another, read, deflected and transported, deflected once again, sorted and issued stacked.
This processing sequence is composed of a sequence of completed processing functions, which respectively are carried out by one module
31
-
36
. Corresponding modules
31
-
36
are schematically illustrated in FIG.
3
: an inlet and separating module
31
with an inlet compartment
311
, which serves as entrance of the device, a first transport module
32
.
1
, a first reading module
33
.
1
, a second reading module
33
.
2
, a first deflection module
34
.
1
, a second transport module
32
.
2
and a third transport module
32
.
3
, a second deflection module
34
.
2
, a sorting module
35
, a first stacking module
36
.
1
with an outlet compartment
361
.
1
and a second stacking module
36
.
2
with an outlet compartment
361
.
2
. The outlet compartments
361
.
1
,
361
.
2
serve as exits from the device. A single reading module is sufficient, if only one side of the bank notes has to be read; this can be the case, if the bank notes only have to be identified, for example, for the purpose of subsequent sorting in the sorting module
35
. Two reading modules
33
.
1
,
33
.
2
are necessary, if both sides of the bank notes have to be read. This is necessary, for example, if the bank notes have to be verified, i.e., examined. It is applicable in general that several reading modules
33
.
1
,
33
.
2
increase the redundancy and with this the faultless operation and the security of the processing sequence.
Protruding from the plate
1
are pins
2
.
1
,
2
.
2
, . . . , onto which the modules
31
-
36
can be plugged. For this purpose, the modules
31
-
36
are equipped with mouldings (grooves/contours) and/or apertures
22
.
1
,
22
.
2
, . . . , into which the pins
2
.
1
,
2
.
2
, . . . are inserted. Such a plugging-in results in a simply, releasable, but nonetheless stable mechanical connection between the plate
1
and the modules
31
-
36
. The plate
1
in preference has a standardized or uniform grid
21
of attachment points
20
.
51
,
20
.
52
, . . . for further pins. If so required, further pins can also be attached to the plate
1
and, vice-versa, others can be removed from the plate
1
. The distances between the mouldings and/or apertures
22
.
1
,
22
.
2
, . . . in the modules
31
-
36
correspond to the spacings preferably a standardized grid spacing, of the attachment points for pins
2
.
1
,
2
.
2
, . . . The modules
31
-
36
therefore can be arranged on the plate
1
in a modular system with a great degree of freedom. For modules that require electric power such as, for example, a reading module
33
.
1
,
33
.
2
, corresponding (outlined in
FIG. 1
) electrical means of connection
83
, for example sockets, are provided on the plate
1
, on printed circuit boards
82
.
1
-
82
.
3
or on other elements fixed to the plate
1
.
In
FIG. 4
a frontal view of a detail IV of
FIG. 3
is depicted. This shows the attachment, resp., hooking on of two modules, for example, of the second transport module
32
.
2
and of the third transport module
32
.
3
. The two modules
32
.
2
,
32
.
3
are plugged into two pins
2
.
5
,
2
.
6
(as well as into other pins, which are not visible in FIG.
4
), in that the pins
2
.
5
,
2
.
6
are slid into mouldings
22
.
51
,
22
.
52
,
22
.
61
,
22
.
62
. Each one of the two pins
2
.
5
,
2
.
6
connects both modules
32
.
2
,
32
.
3
with the plate
1
. Vice-versa, for the stable attachment of a module normally two, sometimes also more than two pins are required.
FIG. 5
shows, in the same view as
FIG. 4
, a detail V of the FIG.
3
. Here one of the pins
2
.
7
connects the four modules
36
.
1
,
36
.
2
,
34
.
3
,
35
with the plate
1
. Such an arrangement in a certain sense is even more advantageous than that of
FIG. 4
, because with it fewer pins are necessary for the attachment of the modules.
The modules have standardized interfaces, at which the bank notes are transferred from one module to another. An exemplary embodiment of such an interface
30
, say between the inlet and separating module
31
and the first transport module
32
.
1
of the device of
FIG. 3
, is illustrated in cross section in
FIG. 6. A
bank note
100
is transported in the first transport module
32
.
1
through a first slot
312
in the inlet and separating module
31
and through a second slot
322
adjoining it. The direction of travel of the bank note
100
is indicated with an arrow
101
. The two slots
312
,
322
communicate through the interface
36
. At the interface
30
, the inlet and separating module
31
has a wedge-shaped, elongated ridge
301
. The first transport module
32
.
1
at the corresponding place is equipped with an elongated groove
302
for accommodating the ridge
301
. The inter-meshing of ridge
301
and groove
302
provides an additional positioning aid for the two modules
31
,
32
.
1
and ensures an impeccable transfer of the bank notes
100
from one module
31
into the other module
32
.
1
at the interface
30
. The device is conceived and built such that the interfaces
30
are correctly positioned relative to one another and such that transfers of bank notes are possible when the modules
31
-
36
are inserted into the device.
The
FIG. 7-12
illustrate examples of different modules
31
-
36
that can be inserted into the device in accordance with the invention. In doing so, a movement of the (not depicted in
FIG. 7-12
) bank note-like objects, for example bank notes
100
, is schematically indicated with arrows
102
. The bank notes
100
typically move through the device with a speed of 600 to 1500 mm/sec; in doing so, the space between them amounts to approx. 20 to 50 mm. With these values, a typical flow rate of four to ten bank notes per second results. In part, mouldings or apertures for the plugging into pins
2
.
1
.,
2
.
2
, . . . (for example, shown in
FIGS. 1-3
) are visible. Also visible in part are pegs
55
.
1
,
55
.
2
, . . . , which engage (visible in
FIG. 1
) perforated wheels, resp., wheel rims
53
.
1
,
53
.
2
, . . . and in this manner transmit torques from the plate
1
into the modules
31
-
36
. Driven by these means of transmission are transport shafts
551
.
1
,
551
.
2
, . . . and finally transport rollers
552
.
1
,
552
.
2
, . . . which, by means of adhesive friction, effect the transportation of the bank notes
100
.
In
FIG. 7
, a module
31
for the insertion and separation of bank notes
100
is illustrated. The bank notes
100
are placed in an inlet compartment
311
as a stack, individually drawn in by the module
31
and therefore separated from the stack and from one another.
FIG. 8
shows a transport module
32
for the linear transportation of the bank notes
100
. By the module
33
of
FIG. 9
, the bank notes
100
are optically read, for example, with the help of (not visible in
FIG. 9
) CCD arrays and/or CCD matrices.
FIG. 10
illustrates a deflection module
34
, which deflects the bank notes
100
by a certain angle □, for example, by □=90°, relative to their original direction of movement
101
.
1
. The module
35
of
FIG. 11
is a branching module, a sorting module or a switch point. Depending on the position of a switch
42
(depicted in FIG.
1
), the movements of which are transmitted with the help of (indicated in
FIG. 1
) means of transmission
56
into the module
35
, the module
35
transfers a bank note
100
onwards in a first direction
101
.
2
, for example, undeflected, or in a second direction
101
.
3
, for example, deflected by 90°. Finally, in
FIG. 12
a stacking module
36
is shown. The bank notes
100
are stacked in an outlet compartment
361
and can then be removed from this outlet compartment
361
.
It is naturally contemplated that other modules, which are not described here, can be inserted into the device in accordance with the invention. Also the connection between modules and the fixed part can be implemented with other means.
In the
FIGS. 13-19
, some details of certain modules of the device in accordance with the invention are dealt with.
FIGS. 13 and 14
illustrate a transport unit for the transportation of the bank note-like objects
100
within a module. It contains a (not indicated in
FIGS. 13
,
14
) transport shaft
551
driven by drive means
41
and possibly present means of transmission
51
-
55
with preferably several transport rollers
552
.
1
-
552
.
4
, which act on the bank note-like objects
100
and effect their transportation through the transport unit. The transport rollers
552
.
1
-
552
.
4
, resp., their active surfaces, consist of a material that has a high adhesive friction coefficient versus the bank note-like objects
100
, for example, an elastomer. In order for an adhesive friction force on the bank note-like objects
100
in the direction of transport
101
to be able to become effective, the bank note-like objects
100
are, by means of several pressure rollers
554
.
1
-
554
.
2
acting in conjunction with the transport rollers
552
.
1
-
552
.
4
on preferably (not driven) pressure shafts
553
.
1
-
553
.
4
, pressed against the transport rollers
552
.
1
-
552
.
4
. The gap between the transport rollers
552
.
1
-
552
.
4
and pressure rollers
554
.
1
-
554
.
4
has to be variable by at least the thickness d of the bank note-like objects
100
. For this purpose, the pressure rollers
554
.
1
-
554
.
3
are suspended individually and movable perpendicular to the direction of transport
101
and relative to the pressure shafts
553
.
1
-
553
.
4
. The direction of movement of the pressure rollers
554
.
1
-
554
.
3
is indicated by a double arrow
555
. Such movable suspensions can be approximated by small rotations
555
′ of the pressure shafts
553
.
1
-
553
.
4
around a suspension axis
557
fixed in the device. The pressure shafts
553
.
1
-
553
.
4
can be rotatably supported, for example, in suspension elements
556
.
1
-
556
.
4
, which are hooked onto the suspension axis
557
. In a particularly advantageous embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 19
, the pressure shafts
553
.
1
-
553
.
4
can also be manufactured as a single part together with the pressure rollers
554
.
1
-
554
.
4
and made, for example, from a plastic material.
On the pressure rollers
554
.
1
-
554
.
4
, the pressure shafts
553
.
1
-
553
.
4
, resp., the suspension elements
556
.
1
-
556
.
4
, in the direction of the transport rollers
552
.
1
-
552
.
4
retro-acting or biasing forces F
R
should be exerted. Usually in the case of known devices the retro-acting forces F
R
are exerted with several helical springs. Such an arrangement, however, is complicated, expensive and susceptible to malfunction. In the device in accordance with the invention, the retro-acting forces F
R
are produced by a reversibly compressible foam material element
558
. The foam material element
558
is in preference at least as long (in the z-direction) as the total length of all rollers
552
.
1
-
552
.
4
, resp.,
554
.
1
-
554
.
4
. The foam material element
558
is held in a holder
559
and supported versus a module housing
371
. This pressure unit in accordance with the invention has the advantages of being simple, cheap and not susceptible to malfunction. A single foam material element
558
is sufficient to exert retro-acting force F
R
on every pressure roller
554
.
1
-
554
.
4
individually. Apart from this, the foam material element
558
not only supplies the retro-acting forces FR, but also desirable damping, so that the pressure rollers
554
.
1
-
554
.
4
maintain the desired, variable working gap to the transport rollers
552
.
1
-
552
.
4
without vibrating.
Such a pressure unit with at least one foam material element can of course be utilized not only in a transport unit, but also in other units. Thus, the pressure rollers
554
.
1
-
554
.
4
can also push the bank note-like objects
100
against other elements, such as, for example, a reading window of a reading module
33
.
At certain points of the device, position sensors are required in order to determine whether a bank note-like object is present at a certain point at a certain time. Known devices utilize optical light barriers for this purpose. The disadvantage of such light barriers is that they are mounted close to the passage of the bank note-like objects and, as a result, are quickly contaminated with dirt, which impairs their operability. The invention solves this problem, in that the presence of a bank note-like object is mechanically detected. Optical sensors are located at a distance from the passage of the bank note-like objects or screened, in preference even attached outside a module.
An embodiment of such a position sensor
60
of the device in accordance with the invention is depicted in the
FIGS. 15 and 16
in longitudinal section, similar to the depiction of
FIG. 14
, and in
FIG. 17
in a perspective view. The position sensor
60
contains mechanical detection elements
62
.
1
-
62
.
5
, and at least one proximity element
64
connected with the detecting elements
62
.
1
-
52
.
5
. The detecting elements
62
.
1
-
62
.
5
and the proximity element
64
in this exemplary embodiment are located on a detecting shaft
61
, rigidly connected with it and rotatable. The detecting elements
62
.
1
-
62
.
5
, for example, have the shape of sensing fingers bent towards their ends. Apart from this, the position sensor
60
contains a measuring element
63
, which acts in conjunction with the proximity element
64
and transmits an electric output signal dependent on the position of the proximity element
64
to an electric line
634
. In doing this, the measuring element
63
, e.g., as in the
FIGS. 15-17
, can be a light barrier with a light source
631
, a photo-detector
633
and a light path
632
between them. The light path
632
is interruptible by the proximity element
64
. The measuring element
63
, however, can also be implemented as a proximity switch, etc. Important is the fact that the measuring element
63
is located at a distance from the passage of the bank note-like objects
100
or else screened and inaccessible to contamination with dirt. In the present invention this is achieved by locating the measuring element
63
on the first side
11
of the plate
1
(refer to FIG.
1
), for example, on a printed circuit board
82
.
1
-
82
.
3
. The proximity element
64
therefore transmits a mechanical signal from the respective module to the plate
1
and only on the plate
1
is the mechanical signal converted into an electric one. Contamination with dirt of the mechanical detecting elements
62
.
1
-
62
.
5
does not impair the function of the robust position sensor
60
.
FIGS. 15 and 17
illustrate the position sensor
60
in a position of rest wherein no bank note-like object
100
is at the measuring point
65
, i.e., in the zone of the rollers
552
,
554
. The measuring element
63
is in a first condition; in this example of an embodiment the light path
632
of the light barrier is not interrupted.
FIG. 16
shows the position sensor
60
in a deflected position, in which a bank note-like object
100
is located at the measuring point
65
. The measuring element
63
is in a second condition wherein the light path
632
of the light barrier is interrupted by the proximity element
64
, and the output signal of the measuring element
63
is a different one from that in the first condition. In the deflected position, a retro-acting or biasing torque on the detecting elements
62
.
1
-
62
.
5
, indicated with an arrow
66
, is present. Therefore, as soon as the bank note-like object
100
is removed from the measuring point
65
, the position sensor returns to the rest position shown in
FIGS. 15 and 17
.
A further aspect of the invention concerns a feeder -, resp., individualizing unit for the bank note-like objects
100
.
1
,
100
.
2
, . . . An embodiment of such a feeder unit, with which the inlet and separating module
31
is equipped, is illustrated in the
FIGS. 18 and 19
. Bank note-like objects, e.g., bank notes
100
.
3
,
100
.
4
, . . . lie on an inlet ramp
380
in form of a stack. By a pressure force F
A
the bank note-like objects
100
.
3
,
100
.
4
, . . . are pressed against feeder rollers located at the height of the bank notes, preferably several feeder rollers
382
.
1
-
382
.
4
. The pressure force F
A
can be produced by a suitable mechanism or also by the force of gravity. The bank note in front
100
.
1
by means of feeder rollers
382
.
1
-
382
.
2
driven by the feeder shaft
381
by sliding or adhesive friction is accelerated in the direction of several transport rollers
384
.
1
-
384
.
4
. The transport rollers
384
.
1
-
384
.
4
are driven by a transport shaft
383
and, similar as in the transport unit of the
FIGS. 13 and 14
, work in conjunction with pressure rollers
386
.
1
-
386
.
4
. The pressure rollers
386
.
1
-
386
.
4
are movably suspended, and retro-acting or biasing forces F
R
in the direction of the transport rollers
384
.
1
-
384
.
4
act on them. The retro-acting forces F
R
are in preference produced by the mechanism in accordance with the invention described on the occasion of the
FIGS. 13 and 14
(not illustrated here anymore).
In order to ensure that only a single bank note
100
.
1
and not several bank notes together are drawn in, the feeder unit in preference is equipped with several, in essence stationary, not rotating retaining rollers
388
.
1
-
388
.
4
. The retaining rollers
388
.
1
-
388
.
4
are located on a retaining shaft
387
and are sporadically or continually, but very slowly (compared with the rotation speed of the transport rollers
384
.
1
-
384
.
4
) rotated, in order to prevent a non-uniform wear of their surface. The retaining rollers
388
.
1
-
388
.
4
usually by sliding or adhesive friction, prevent more than a first bank note
100
.
1
, i.e., a second (and further) bank note
100
.
2
, from being drawn in. In the known feeder units, the retaining rollers and the transport rollers are offset relative to one another, and only the pressure rollers lie opposite the transport rollers (such as in FIG.
14
). This leads to the fact, that a drawn-in bank note is undulated or deformed in the z-direction, which represents a considerable disadvantage for the subsequent processing functions, such as transportation or reading. Apart from this, it happens from time to time, that undesirably several bank notes are drawn in at the same time.
The feeder unit in accordance with the invention avoids these disadvantages, in that every retaining roller
388
.
1
-
388
.
4
lies opposite a transport roller
384
.
1
-
384
.
4
. In this, the gap a between the retaining rollers
388
.
1
-
388
.
4
and the transport rollers
384
.
1
-
384
.
4
has to be adjusted fairly accurately to the bank note thickness d, i.e., in any case it must be applicable, that:
d≦a
<2
d.
This requirement for enhanced precision at first sight would appear to be disadvantageous in comparison with the prior art. However, one the foregoing equation one acquires two essential advantages: first of all no waviness of the drawn in bank notes, and secondly a guaranteed individualization of the bank notes when drawn in.
In the example of an embodiment illustrated here, one pressure roller
386
.
1
and one retaining roller
388
.
1
are respectively located opposite a transport roller
384
.
1
. It would also be possible that, for example, a pressure roller would be alternately located opposite a first transport roller and subsequently a retaining roller would be located opposite a second transport roller. It goes without saying, that in accordance with the invention also more than four feeder, transport, pressure, and/or retaining rollers can be present.
What an embodiment of the device in accordance with the invention could look like from outside, is illustrated in FIG.
20
. The device is enclosed by a housing
9
. Visible from outside are the inlet compartment
311
and, for example, two outlet compartments
361
.
1
,
361
.
2
. For communication with a user, an operating unit
90
can be foreseen. The operating unit
90
can contain an output unit, for example, a monitor screen or an LCD display, and/or an input unit, for example, a keyboard. In the example of an embodiment presented here, input and output unit are combined and implemented as a touch-sensitive screen
91
(touch-screen).
Claims
- 1. A device for processing bank note-like objects (100), with at least one inlet (311) and at least one outlet (361.1, 361.2) for the bank note-like objects (100), comprisinga fixed part (1), interchangeable mobile parts (31-36), whereby the mobile parts (31-36) are modules each for the performing of a complete processing function on the bank note-like objects (100) to be processed and the modules (31-36) are reversibly insertable into the fixed part (1) such that, between the at least one inlet (311) and the at least one outlet (361.1, 361.2), a plurality of different sequences for the processing of bank note-like objects (100) is performable, drive means (41, 42) for producing forces and/or torques as well as active means (552.1-552.4) for mechanically acting on the bank note-like objects (100), wherein the drive means (41, 42) are attached to the fixed part (1), the active means (552.1-552.4) are attached in the mobile parts (31-36) and means of transmission (51-56) for the transmission of the forces and/or torques from the drive means (41, 42) to the active means (552.1-552.4) are present.
- 2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the drive means are designed as electric motor (41) and/or as magnetic switch (42).
- 3. The device according to claim 1, wherein the active means are designed as transport rollers (552.1-552.4).
- 4. The device according to claim 1, wherein the means of transmission are designed as toothed synchronous beets (51.1-51.7), deflection rollers (52.1, 52.2, . . . ), perforated wheels or perforated wheel rims (53.1, 53.2, . . . ), pins (55.1, 55.2, . . . ) engaging in bores (54) and/or levers (56).
- 5. The device according to claim 1, wherein the fixed part (1) is designed as an essentially rigid supporting structure.
- 6. The device according to claim 5, wherein the fixed part (1) is designed as a plate, as a profile or as a grating of bars.
- 7. The device according to claim 1, further comprising mechanical means of connection (2.1, 2.2, . . . ), by means of which the mobile parts (31-36) are attachable to the fixed part (1) by positive releasable mechanical connections.
- 8. The device according to claim 7, wherein the mobile parts (31-36) are pluggable into or hookable onto the fixed part (1).
- 9. The device according to claim 8, wherein pins (2.1, 2.2, . . . ) are attached to the fixed part (1) and the mobile parts (31-36) have corresponding apertures or mouldings (22.1, 22.2, . . . ), into which the pins (2.1, 2.2, . . . ) are insertable, so that the mobile parts (31-36) are pluggable into the fixed part (1) by means of the pins (2.1, 2.2, . . . ).
- 10. The device according to claim 7, wherein a mobile part (31-36) is attachable to the fixed part (1) by means of at least two mechanical means of connection (2.1, 2.2, . . . ).
- 11. The device according to claim 7, wherein a mechanical means of connection (2.7) connects at least two mobile parts (36.1, 36.2, 34.3, 35) with the fixed part (1).
- 12. The device according to claim 1, wherein the completed processing functions performable by the modules (31-36) consist of feeding, separating/individualizing, transporting, deflecting, rotating, reading, sorting or stacking the bank note like objects (100).
- 13. The device according to claim 1, wherein the mobile parts (31-36) have standardized interfaces (30), at which the bank note-like objects (100) are transferable from one mobile part (31) to another mobile part (32.1).
- 14. The device according to claim 1, wherein at least one mobile part (31-36) contains a contact pressure unit for pressing the bank note-like objects (100) against another element (552.1-552.4) by means of at least one movably suspended pressure roller (554.1-554.4), whereby the contact pressure unit is equipped with at least one reversibly compressable foam material element (558), by which retro-acting forces (FR) in the direction of the other element (552.1-552.4) are exertable on the at least one pressure roller (554.1-554.4).
- 15. The device according to claim 14, wherein the at least one mobile part (31-36) contains at least one drivable transport roller (552.1-552.4), whereby the at least one transport roller (552.1-552.4) and the at least one pressure roller (554.1-554.4) are arranged relative to one another in such a manner, that the bank note-like objects (100) are pressed against the at least one transport roller (552.1-552.4) by the at least one pressure roller (554.1-554.4).
- 16. The device according to claim 1, wherein at least one mobile part (31-36) contains at least one mechanical detecting element (62.1-62.5), at least one proximity element (64) mechanically connected with the detecting element (62.1-62.5) and a measuring element (63), which acts in conjunction with the proximity element (64) and transmits an electric output signal dependent on the position of the proximity element (64) to an electric line (634), so that by means of the output signal it is determinable, whether a bank note-like object (100) at a certain time is at a certain place or not.
- 17. The device according to claim 16, wherein the measuring element (63) for the protection against contamination with dirt from the passage of the bank note-like objects (100) is located at a distance or else is screened.
- 18. The device according to claim 16, wherein the at least one mechanical detecting element (62.1-62.5) and the at least one proximity element (64) are attached to a detecting shaft (61) located in the mobile part (31-36) and are rigidly connected with it and rotatable.
- 19. The device according to claim 16, wherein the measuring element (63) is a light barrier with a light source (631), a photo-detector (633) and a light path (632) in between, whereby the light path (632) is interruptible by the proximity element.
- 20. The device according to claim 1, wherein at least one mobile part (31) contains a feeder unit for drawing in individual bank note-like objects (100.1, 100.2, . . . ) of a certain thickness (d),in which feeder unit at least one bank note-like object (100.1) by a contact pressure force (FA) is pressable against at least one drivable insertion roller (382.1-382.4) and is acceleratable by the at least one insertion roller (382.1-382.4) in the direction of at least one transport roller (384.1-384.4), in which feeder unit apart from this at least one pressure roller (386.1-386.4) is movably suspended and by the retro-acting force (FR) pressed in the direction of the transport rollers (384.1-384.4), and in which feeder unit furthermore at least one in essence stationary, not rotating retaining roller (388.1-388.4) for retaining further bank note-like objects (100.2, 100.3, . . . ) is attached, whereby every retaining roller (388.1-388.4) is located opposite a transport roller (384.1-384.4) and the gap (a) between the at least one retaining roller (388.1-388.4) and the at least one transport roller (384.1-384.4) fulfils the condition d≦a<2d.
- 21. The device according to claim 20, wherein one pressure roller (386.1) and one retaining roller (388.1) are respectively located opposite one transport roller (384.1).
Priority Claims (1)
Number |
Date |
Country |
Kind |
98101110 |
Jan 1998 |
EP |
|
PCT Information
Filing Document |
Filing Date |
Country |
Kind |
PCT/CH99/00001 |
|
WO |
00 |
Publishing Document |
Publishing Date |
Country |
Kind |
WO99/38127 |
7/29/1999 |
WO |
A |
US Referenced Citations (5)
Foreign Referenced Citations (4)
Number |
Date |
Country |
27 06 165 |
Jan 1979 |
DE |
27 29 830 |
Jan 1979 |
DE |
0 606 959 |
Jul 1994 |
EP |
2058607 |
Apr 1981 |
GB |