Automatic change machine and storage medium

Abstract

The present invention discloses an automatic change machine and a storage medium, which can properly sterilize the stored cash. The automatic change machine includes a receiving section, a storing section, a disbursement section, a conveying section, a sterilizing section, and a control section. The conveying section includes a receiving conveying section and a disbursement conveying section. The receiving conveying section conveys the cash separated one by one by the receiving section to the storing section. The disbursement conveying section conveys the cash separated one by one by the storing section to the disbursement section. The sterilizing section is arranged on the conveying path of at least one of the receiving conveying section and the disbursement conveying section, and sterilizes the cash on the conveying path. The control section controls the conveying speed of the conveying section, so that the cash is conveyed at a first conveying speed in a cash deposit and access priority mode that gives priority to the deposit and access of cash, and is conveyed at a second conveying speed that is smaller than the first conveying speed in a sterilization priority mode that gives priority to the sterilization of cash.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to Japanese patent application No. JP2020-141975, filed on August 25, 2020, and cites the contents of the above application, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] The embodiments of the present invention relate to an automatic change machine and a storage medium. Background Art

[0003] In the past, coin deposit and withdrawal devices or banknote deposit and withdrawal devices such as automatic change machines connected to POS (Point of Sale System) terminals are known. Users such as store clerks who use these automatic change machines sometimes directly handle coins and / or banknotes when checking out. Cash handled by an unspecified number of people sometimes has microorganisms, bacteria, viruses, etc. attached to it. Therefore, for example, when a store clerk in a restaurant returns to the lobby to work after checking out customers, it is necessary to perform disinfection operations due to hygiene concerns. Here, disinfection operations refer to operations that include removing, sterilizing, or inactivating at least a portion of microorganisms, bacteria, viruses, etc. attached to fingers that have handled cash using soap or alcohol.

[0004] In such an environment, for example, a technology has been disclosed in which microorganisms or bacteria attached to cash stored in a cash box are sterilized by irradiating cash with ultraviolet light. Summary of the invention

[0005] In view of the above problems, the technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an automatic change machine and a storage medium, which can properly sterilize the stored cash.

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, an embodiment of the present invention provides an automatic change machine having a receiving section, a storage section, a disbursement section, a conveying section, a sterilizing section and a control section. The receiving section receives cash as coins or banknotes into the device and separates the received cash one by one. The storage section receives the cash received from the receiving section, separates and discharges the cash of the denomination and number corresponding to the indication one by one. The disbursement section pays out the cash discharged from the receiving section to the outside of the device. The conveying section has a receiving conveying section and a disbursement conveying section. The receiving conveying section conveys the cash separated one by one by the receiving section to the receiving section. The disbursement conveying section conveys the cash separated one by one by the receiving section to the disbursement section. The sterilizing section is provided on the conveying path of at least one of the receiving conveying section and the disbursement conveying section to sterilize the cash on the conveying path. The control unit controls the conveying speed of the conveying unit so that cash is conveyed at a first conveying speed in a cash access priority mode that prioritizes cash access, and cash is conveyed at a second conveying speed that is lower than the first conveying speed in a sterilization priority mode that prioritizes cash sterilization.

[0007] According to the automatic change machine described above, it is possible to provide an automatic change machine that can appropriately sterilize stored cash.

[0008] In the above-mentioned automatic change machine, the conveying section also has a reflux conveying section, which conveys the cash on the conveying path of the disbursement conveying section to the conveying path of the receiving conveying section, and the control section performs a sterilization process on the cash discharged from the storage section and stores the sterilized cash into the storage section in the sterilization priority mode.

[0009] According to the automatic change machine described above, the cash in the storage section can be stored in the storage section after being sterilized.

[0010] In the above-mentioned automatic change machine, the control unit performs the following sterilization processing in the sterilization priority mode: the cash discharged from the storage section is sterilized by moving back and forth through the sterilization section on a conveying path provided with the sterilization section in the receiving conveying section and the disbursement conveying section, and the sterilized cash is stored in the storage section.

[0011] According to the automatic change machine described above, the conveying path can be simplified.

[0012] In the above-mentioned automatic change machine, the sterilizing section is provided in both the receiving conveying section and the dispensing conveying section.

[0013] According to the automatic change machine described above, sterilization is performed at two locations, thereby increasing the sterilization effect.

[0014] In the above-mentioned automatic change machine, the sterilizing unit includes an irradiating unit configured to irradiate the cash on the conveying path with ultraviolet light having a wavelength in a predetermined ultraviolet region.

[0015] According to the automatic change machine described above, sterilization can be performed using ultraviolet light.

[0016] In the above-mentioned automatic change machine, the irradiation unit includes: an upper surface irradiation unit for irradiating ultraviolet light to the upper surface of the cash; and a lower surface irradiation unit for irradiating ultraviolet light to the lower surface of the cash, and the conveying path includes a conveyor belt, and the conveyor belt includes a component that is translucent with respect to ultraviolet light.

[0017] According to the automatic change machine described above, both the upper and lower surfaces of cash can be sterilized by ultraviolet light.

[0018] In the above-mentioned automatic change machine, the upper surface irradiation unit and the lower surface irradiation unit deflect the ultraviolet light from the common light source, thereby irradiating the cash with the ultraviolet light.

[0019] According to the automatic change machine described above, since one light source is used to irradiate the two surfaces of the cash with ultraviolet light, the light source can be saved.

[0020] In the above-mentioned automatic change machine, the control unit sets the radiation intensity to be smaller in the sterilization priority mode than in the cash deposit and withdrawal priority mode.

[0021] According to the automatic change machine described above, power consumption can be suppressed.

[0022] In the above-mentioned automatic change machine, the sterilizing unit includes a heating unit that heats the cash on the conveying path to a predetermined temperature or higher.

[0023] According to the automatic change machine described above, sterilization can be performed using heat.

[0024] A storage medium according to another aspect of the present invention stores a program for causing a computer of an automatic change machine equipped with a receiving section for receiving cash as coins or banknotes into a device and separating the received cash one by one; a storage section for receiving the cash received from the receiving section, separating and discharging the cash of denominations and numbers corresponding to the instructions one by one; a disbursement section for disbursing the cash discharged from the receiving section to the outside of the device; a conveying section having a receiving conveying section for conveying the cash separated one by one by the receiving section to the receiving section, and a disbursement conveying section for conveying the cash separated one by one by the receiving section to the disbursement section; and a sterilization section, which is arranged on the conveying path of at least one of the receiving conveying section and the disbursement conveying section, and sterilizes the cash on the conveying path, to implement the following steps: controlling the conveying speed of the conveying section so that the cash is conveyed at a first conveying speed in a cash access priority mode in which cash access is given priority, and the cash is conveyed at a second conveying speed which is smaller than the first conveying speed in a sterilization priority mode in which sterilization of cash is given priority.

[0025] According to the above-mentioned storage medium, it is possible to provide a computer with a function of appropriately sterilizing stored cash. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of the automatic change machine according to the embodiment.

[0027] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an example of the internal structure of an automatic change machine.

[0028] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an example of the structure of the sterilization unit.

[0029] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 1 A block diagram of an example of the functional configuration of an automatic change machine.

[0030] Figure 5 It is shown in Figure 1 A flowchart of an example of a process performed in an automatic change machine.

[0031] Figure 6 It is used for Figure 1 FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation during cash deposit processing accompanied by sterilization processing in the cash deposit and withdrawal priority mode of an automatic change machine.

[0032] Figure 7 It is used for Figure 1 FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation during cash withdrawal processing accompanied by sterilization processing in the cash deposit and withdrawal priority mode of the automatic change machine.

[0033] Figure 8 It is used for Figure 1 FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an example of operation during a sterilization process in a sterilization priority mode of an automatic change machine.

[0034] Fig. 9 It is used for Figure 1 FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining another example of the operation during the sterilization process in the sterilization priority mode of the automatic change machine.

[0035] Fig.10 It is shown Figure 2 A schematic diagram of another example of the structure of the sterilization section.

[0036] Description of Reference Numerals

[0037] 1: Automatic change machine 100: Control unit 101: Sterilization control unit 102: Storage unit 1021: Control program 11: Receiving unit 111: Separation mechanism 12: Conveying unit 121: Receiving conveying unit 122: Dispensing conveying unit 123: Reflux conveying unit 124: Conveying surface 13: Sterilization unit 131: Receiving sterilization unit 132: Dispensing sterilization unit 133: Upper surface irradiation unit 134: Lower surface irradiation unit 135: Upper surface heating unit 136: Lower surface heating unit 14: Receiving unit 141: Separation mechanism 15: Dispensing unit 16: Temporary storage unit 161: Separation mechanism 2: Banknote deposit and withdrawal device 21: Receiving unit 25: Dispensing unit 3: Coin deposit and withdrawal device 31: Receiving unit 35: Dispensing unit 50: Cash 9: Host device DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] Hereinafter, the automatic change machine and the storage medium according to the embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described below.

[0039] In the description using the drawings, expressions such as up and down, left and right, front, back, and front are expressions when the side facing a user such as a customer or an operator (store clerk) is regarded as the front.

[0040] (First Embodiment)

[0041] Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of the automatic change machine 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 1 As an example, a banknote deposit and withdrawal device 2 as the automatic change machine 1 and a coin deposit and withdrawal device 3 as the automatic change machine 1 are illustrated. Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 Schematic diagram of an example of the internal structure of the automatic change machine 1.

[0042] It should be noted that Figure 1The example shows a case where the banknote deposit and withdrawal device 2 and the coin deposit and withdrawal device 3 having different housings are arranged adjacent to each other, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The automatic change machine 1 according to the embodiment may be a banknote deposit and withdrawal device 2 or a coin deposit and withdrawal device 3 used as a single unit, or may be a banknote deposit and withdrawal device 2 and a coin deposit and withdrawal device 3 constructed integrally.

[0043] In addition, in the following description, when banknotes and coins are not distinguished, they may be described as cash or currency.

[0044] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the automatic change machine 1 includes a receiving portion 11 and a dispensing portion 15 .

[0045] The receiving section 11 is configured to count the number of inserted cash and collect it into the main body 10 at the same time. The receiving section 11 is provided at the front side of the automatic change machine 1. The receiving section 11 has a separation mechanism 111. The separation mechanism 111 separates the cash inserted from the receiving section 11 one by one. As the separation mechanism 111, for example, a pair of rollers facing each other with a gap of a degree corresponding to the thickness of coins or banknotes can be used. The pair of rollers rotate in the same direction, so that a plurality of overlapping cash can pass through the gap one by one. It should be noted that the separation mechanism 111 can be of any configuration as long as it separates a plurality of overlapping cash one by one. In this way, the receiving section 11 receives the cash into the main body 10 (device) and separates the collected cash one by one. The receiving section 11 provides the separated cash one by one to the receiving and conveying section 121 of the conveying section 12.

[0046] The disbursement unit 15 is configured to disburse the cash stored in the main body 10 to the outside of the main body 10. Specifically, the disbursement unit 15 disburses the cash transported one by one from the storage unit 14 by the disbursement transport unit 122 of the transport unit 12 to the outside of the main body 10. In other words, the disbursement unit 15 disburses the cash discharged from the storage unit 14 to the outside of the main body 10 (device). In addition, the disbursement unit 15 retains the cash disbursed to the outside as change until the user takes it away. The disbursement unit 15 is provided on the front side of the automatic change machine 1.

[0047] It should be noted that the main body 20 of the banknote deposit and withdrawal device 2 and the main body 30 of the coin deposit and withdrawal device 3 correspond to the main body 10 of the automatic change machine 1. In addition, the receiving section 21 of the banknote deposit and withdrawal device 2 and the receiving section 31 of the coin deposit and withdrawal device 3 correspond to the receiving section 11 of the automatic change machine 1. In addition, the disbursement section 25 of the banknote deposit and withdrawal device 2 and the disbursement section 35 of the coin deposit and withdrawal device 3 correspond to the disbursement section 15 of the automatic change machine 1.

[0048] like Figure 2As shown, the automatic change machine 1 further includes a conveying unit 12 and a storage unit 14. The conveying unit 12 and the storage unit 14 are disposed inside the main body 10, respectively.

[0049] like Figure 2 As shown, the conveying unit 12 includes an intake conveying unit 121, a disbursement conveying unit 122, and a reflow conveying unit 123. The intake conveying unit 121 is configured to convey the cash supplied one by one from the intake unit 11 to the storage unit 14. In other words, the intake conveying unit 121 conveys the cash separated one by one from the intake unit 11 to the storage unit 14. The disbursement conveying unit 122 is configured to convey the cash supplied one by one from the storage unit 14 to the disbursement unit 15. In other words, the disbursement conveying unit 122 conveys the cash separated one by one from the storage unit 14 to the disbursement unit 15. The reflow conveying unit 123 is configured to convey the cash on the conveying path of the disbursement conveying unit 122 to the conveying path of the intake conveying unit 121. The conveying unit 12 includes, for example, a pair of pulleys and an endless belt stretched by the pair of pulleys at a predetermined tension. The endless belt is driven to rotate by one pulley to convey the cash in contact with the surface of the belt. It should be noted that each transport unit in the transport unit 12 may have any structure as long as it can transport cash.

[0050] The storage section 14 has a plurality of storage spaces for storing cash by denomination. The storage section 14 counts the number of cash received by the receiving section 11 into the interior of the main body 10 by each denomination, and stores the cash in the corresponding storage spaces by each denomination. The number of the plurality of storage spaces is at least the number corresponding to the types of denominations corresponding to the automatic change machine 1. In addition, the storage section 14 has a separation mechanism 141. The separation mechanism 141 separates the cash discharged from each storage space of the storage section 14 one by one. The separation mechanism 141, like the above-mentioned separation mechanism 111, may be of any configuration as long as it can separate a plurality of overlapping cashes one by one. In this way, the storage section 14 stores the cash received from the receiving section 11 and separates it from the upper device 9 (refer to Figure 4 ) indicates that the cash of the corresponding denomination and number is separated and discharged one by one. The storage unit 14 provides the separated cash one by one to the disbursement conveying unit 122 of the conveying unit 12.

[0051] like Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , the automatic change machine 1 further includes a sterilizing unit 13. The sterilizing unit 13 is disposed inside the main body 10. The sterilizing unit 13 is configured to sterilize both sides of the cash conveyed one by one by the conveying unit 12. Specifically, Figure 2As shown, the sterilization unit 13 includes a receiving sterilization unit 131 and a dispensing sterilization unit 132. The receiving sterilization unit 131 is configured to be arranged on the conveying path of the receiving conveying unit 121, and sterilizes both sides of the cash conveyed one by one by the receiving conveying unit 121. The dispensing sterilization unit 132 is configured to be arranged on the conveying path of the dispensing conveying unit 122, and sterilizes both sides of the cash conveyed one by one by the dispensing conveying unit 122. In this way, the sterilization unit 13 is arranged on the conveying paths of the receiving conveying unit 121 and the dispensing conveying unit 122, and sterilizes the cash on the conveying paths.

[0052] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an example of the structure of the sterilization unit 13. Figure 3 As shown, the sterilizing section 13 includes an upper surface irradiation section 133 and a lower surface irradiation section 134. The upper surface irradiation section 133 is configured to irradiate ultraviolet light to the upper surface of the cash 50 conveyed in the direction of the arrow 51 on the conveying surface 124 of the conveying section 12. The lower surface irradiation section 134 is configured to irradiate ultraviolet light to the lower surface of the cash 50 conveyed in the direction of the arrow 51 on the conveying surface 124. It should be noted that the conveying surface 124 of the conveying section 12 is configured to allow ultraviolet light to pass through. Here, the configuration that allows ultraviolet light to pass through includes using a member that is transparent to ultraviolet light, that is, a member with low attenuation of ultraviolet light, for the area where ultraviolet light is irradiated. In addition, the configuration that allows ultraviolet light to pass through includes not arranging a member that blocks ultraviolet light or a member that greatly attenuates ultraviolet light in the area where ultraviolet light is irradiated. As an example, the conveying section 12 includes an endless belt (conveyor belt). A part or all of the endless belt is configured with a member that is transmissive to ultraviolet light. As another example, a hole for allowing ultraviolet light to pass is provided in a part such as the center of the endless belt of the transport unit 12 .

[0053] The upper surface irradiation part 133 and the lower surface irradiation part 134 are respectively configured to radiate light having a wavelength in a predetermined ultraviolet region (hereinafter referred to as ultraviolet light). As each irradiation part of the upper surface irradiation part 133 and the lower surface irradiation part 134, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) can be used. It should be noted that the upper surface irradiation part 133 and the lower surface irradiation part 134 only need to radiate ultraviolet light in a predetermined wavelength region, and are not limited to LEDs, and mercury lamps, etc. can also be used.

[0054] The ultraviolet light used in the sterilization unit 13 may include any wavelength of UV-A (wavelength: 320 to 380 nm), UV-B (wavelength: 280 to 320 nm), and UV-C (wavelength: 200 to 280 nm), but preferably includes a wavelength region of UV-C. The ultraviolet light used in the sterilization unit 13 is more preferably a wavelength region including a wavelength of 250 to 260 nm. The ultraviolet light used in the sterilization unit 13 is further preferably a wavelength region including a wavelength of 253.7 nm.

[0055] The radiation intensity of the ultraviolet light by the sterilization section 13 can be appropriately set according to the intensity required for sterilization corresponding to the type of microorganisms, bacteria, or viruses that are the objects of sterilization treatment, etc., based on the distance between the upper surface irradiation section 133 and the lower surface irradiation section 134 and the conveying surface 124.

[0056] It should be noted that the area on the conveying surface 124 where the upper surface irradiation unit 133 irradiates the ultraviolet light may not coincide with the area on the conveying surface 124 where the lower surface irradiation unit 134 irradiates the ultraviolet light.

[0057] It should be noted that in each of the sterilization sections of the receiving sterilization section 131 and the discharging sterilization section 132, the upper surface irradiation section 133 and the lower surface irradiation section 134 may also be integrally constructed. For example, the upper surface irradiation section 133 and the lower surface irradiation section 134 integrally constructed may also have a size and shape that can simultaneously irradiate ultraviolet light to areas on both sides of the conveying surface 124 on the conveying path. Alternatively, the upper surface irradiation section 133 and the lower surface irradiation section 134 integrally constructed may also be constructed to have a common light source and an optical system that deflects ultraviolet light from the light source, so that ultraviolet light can be irradiated to areas on both sides of the conveying surface 124 on the conveying path. Since ultraviolet light can be irradiated to areas on both sides of the conveying surface 124 with one light source, light sources can be saved.

[0058] It should be noted that the receiving sterilization section 131 and the discharging sterilization section 132 may also be integrally constructed. For example, the upper surface irradiation section 133 and the lower surface irradiation section 134 may have a size and shape that can simultaneously irradiate ultraviolet light to two areas, an area on the conveying path of the receiving conveying section 121 and an area on the conveying path of the discharging conveying section 122. Alternatively, the upper surface irradiation section 133 and the lower surface irradiation section 134 may be constructed to have a common light source and an optical system that deflects ultraviolet light from the light source, so that ultraviolet light can be irradiated to two areas on the conveying path of the receiving conveying section 121 and the conveying path of the discharging conveying section 122. Since one light source can be used to irradiate ultraviolet light to the areas on both sides of the conveying surface 124, light sources can be saved.

[0059] It should be noted that the sterilization unit 13 may not be provided on either the receiving sterilization unit 131 or the dispensing sterilization unit 132. That is, the sterilization unit 13 is provided on the conveying path of at least one of the receiving conveying unit 121 and the dispensing conveying unit 122 to sterilize the cash 50 on the conveying path. The sterilization unit 13 is provided on the conveying path of the receiving conveying unit 121 and the dispensing conveying unit 122 to sterilize the cash 50 on the conveying path.

[0060] By providing the sterilizing section 13 at both the receiving and conveying section 121 and the dispensing and conveying section 122, the cash conveyed from the receiving section 11 to the storage section 14 can be sterilized, and further the cash conveyed from the storage section 14 to the dispensing section 15 can be sterilized. By performing sterilization at two locations, the irradiation time of ultraviolet light can be prolonged, thereby increasing the sterilization effect.

[0061] In addition, the receiving sterilization unit 131 is provided on the conveying path of the receiving conveying unit 121. The dispensing sterilization unit 132 is not provided. The cash received from the receiving unit 11 can be sterilized. Cash with viruses attached can be prevented from being received into the automatic change machine 1.

[0062] On the other hand, the dispensing sterilization unit 132 is provided on the conveying path of the dispensing conveying unit 122. The receiving sterilization unit 131 is not provided. Cash with viruses attached thereto can be prevented from being dispensing to the dispensing unit 15.

[0063] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, sterilization refers to reducing the number of microorganisms, bacteria, or viruses, or rendering them nontoxic. In other words, sterilization in this embodiment refers to removing and / or destroying at least a portion of microorganisms or bacteria. In addition, sterilization in this embodiment refers to removing and / or inactivating at least a portion of viruses.

[0064] like Figure 2 As shown, the automatic change machine 1 also has a control unit 100. The control unit 100 is arranged inside the main body 10 of the automatic change machine 1. The control unit 100 has a processor, a memory, an I / O device control unit, and a communication I / F (none of which are shown in the figure). As a processor, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) is used. As a memory, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory) and a ROM (Read Only Memory) are used. RAM is used as a working memory and is a volatile memory that saves data when the processor performs arithmetic processing. ROM is a control program 1021 (refer to Figure 4 ) and other programs or parameters and other data.

[0065] It should be noted that the processor is not limited to the CPU, and other processors such as GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) or ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) and FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) can also be used. In addition, the memory is not limited to RAM and ROM, and other non-volatile memories such as HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive), flash memory, etc. can also be used.

[0066] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 1 A block diagram of an example of the functional structure of the automatic change machine 1. Figure 4 As shown, the control unit 100 is connected to the receiving unit 11, the conveying unit 12, the sterilizing unit 13, the storage unit 14, the disbursement unit 15 and the host device 9 in a communicable manner. The host device 9 is, for example, a computer such as a POS (Point of Sale System) terminal mounted on various cash registers. As an example, the host device 9 can be mounted on the upper part of the main body 10 of the automatic change machine 1.

[0067] The control unit 100 controls each part of the automatic change machine 1 according to various programs stored in the ROM, etc. In addition, the processor of the control unit 100 executes various programs loaded into the RAM, thereby saving the counting result into the memory or sending it to the host device 9. In addition, the processor of the control unit 100 executes various programs loaded into the RAM, thereby receiving instructions such as cash deposit instructions or cash withdrawal instructions, sterilization instructions, and recounting instructions from the host device 9.

[0068] As an example, the processor of the control unit 100 executes the control program 1021 loaded into the RAM, thereby realizing the functions as the sterilization control unit 101 and the storage unit 102 .

[0069] The sterilization control unit 101 controls the sterilization process in the automatic change machine 1. The sterilization process includes the sterilization process in the cash deposit and access priority mode and the sterilization process in the sterilization priority mode. The cash deposit and access priority mode is, for example, a mode executed during the business of the store. The sterilization priority mode is, for example, a mode executed at a timing that can fully ensure the time for the sterilization process, such as before the store starts business or after the business ends. The sterilization control unit 101 controls the conveying speed of the conveying unit 12 so that cash is conveyed at a first conveying speed in the cash deposit and access priority mode that prioritizes cash deposit and access. The sterilization control unit 101 controls the conveying speed of the conveying unit 12 so that cash is conveyed at a second conveying speed that is lower than the first conveying speed in the sterilization priority mode that prioritizes the sterilization of cash.

[0070] The storage unit 102 stores a control program 1021 for controlling the operation of the automatic change machine 1. The storage unit 102 also stores various parameters related to the operation of the automatic change machine 1. For example, the storage unit 102 stores the conveyance speed of cash by the conveyance unit 12 in each mode.

[0071] Hereinafter, the flow of processing executed by the automatic change machine 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 5 It is shown in Figure 1 A flowchart of an example of a process executed in the automatic change machine 1.

[0072] The sterilization control unit 101 determines whether to operate in the cash access priority mode (S101). For example, when the sterilization control unit 101 does not receive a sterilization instruction from the host device 9, it determines that the operation is in the cash access priority mode. For example, when the sterilization control unit 101 receives a sterilization instruction from the host device 9, it determines that the operation is not in the cash access priority mode, that is, it operates in the sterilization priority mode.

[0073] It should be noted that the sterilization control unit 101 may determine to operate in the cash deposit and withdrawal priority mode based on, for example, receiving a cash deposit instruction or a cash withdrawal instruction from the host device 9 .

[0074] <Cash deposit and withdrawal priority mode>

[0075] When the sterilization control unit 101 determines that the operation is to be performed in the cash access priority mode ( S101 : Yes), the sterilization control unit 101 starts the operation in the cash access priority mode ( S102 to S105 ).

[0076] The sterilization control unit 101 determines whether to execute cash deposit processing (S102) based on whether a cash deposit instruction is received from the host device 9. If it is determined to execute cash deposit processing (S102: Yes), the sterilization control unit 101 executes cash deposit processing with sterilization processing (S103).

[0077] Figure 6 It is used for Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the automatic change machine 1 in the cash deposit and withdrawal priority mode, which is accompanied by a sterilization process. Figure 6 In the figure, arrow 52 shows the flow of cash in the cash deposit process. In the cash deposit process, the sterilization control unit 101 receives the cash into the main body 10 through the receiving unit 11 and separates the received cash one by one. The sterilization control unit 101 transports the separated cash one by one to the storage unit 14 through the receiving and transporting unit 121. In addition, the sterilization control unit 101 irradiates ultraviolet light on both sides of the cash transported one by one through the sterilization unit 13.

[0078] It should be noted that, during the cash deposit process, the sterilization control unit 101 sets the conveying speed of the receiving conveyor 121 to a speed that prioritizes cash depositing. The conveying speed of the receiving conveyor 121 corresponds to the cash sterilization time performed by the sterilization unit 13 during the cash deposit process.

[0079] When it is not determined to execute the cash deposit process (S102: No), the sterilization control unit 101 determines whether to execute the cash withdrawal process (S104) based on whether a cash withdrawal instruction is received from the host device 9. When it is determined to execute the cash withdrawal process (S104: Yes), the sterilization control unit 101 executes the cash withdrawal process accompanied by the sterilization process (S105).

[0080] Figure 7 It is used for Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the automatic change machine 1 in the cash deposit and withdrawal priority mode, during the cash withdrawal process accompanied by the sterilization process. Figure 7 In the figure, arrow 53 shows the flow of cash in the cash withdrawal process. In the cash withdrawal process, the sterilization control unit 101 discharges cash of denomination and number corresponding to the cash withdrawal instruction one by one through the storage unit 14. The sterilization control unit 101 conveys the separated cash one by one to the disbursement unit 15 through the disbursement conveying unit 122. In addition, the sterilization control unit 101 irradiates ultraviolet light on both sides of the cash conveyed one by one through the sterilization unit 13.

[0081] It should be noted that, in the cash withdrawal process, the sterilization control unit 101 sets the conveying speed of the dispensing conveying unit 122 to a speed that gives priority to cash withdrawal. The conveying speed of the dispensing conveying unit 122 corresponds to the cash sterilization time performed by the sterilization unit 13 in the cash withdrawal process.

[0082] <Sterilization priority mode>

[0083] When the sterilization control unit 101 determines that the operation is performed in the sterilization priority mode ( S101 : No), the sterilization process in the sterilization priority mode is started ( S107 ).

[0084] Figure 8 It is used for Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation during the sterilization process in the sterilization priority mode of the automatic change machine 1. Figure 8 In the figure, arrow 54 shows the flow of cash during the sterilization process in the sterilization priority mode. During the sterilization process in the sterilization priority mode, the sterilization control unit 101 discharges cash of denominations and numbers corresponding to the sterilization instructions (specified denominations and numbers) one by one through the storage unit 14. The sterilization control unit 101 conveys the separated cash one by one to the storage unit 14 through the disbursement conveying unit 122, the return conveying unit 123, and the collection conveying unit 121. In addition, the sterilization control unit 101 irradiates ultraviolet light on both sides of the cash conveyed one by one through the sterilization unit 13.

[0085] The cash conveyed one by one from the storage section 14 is sterilized by the dispensing sterilization section 132 of the dispensing conveying section 122. The return conveying section 123 is connected to the upstream of the receiving sterilization section 131 of the receiving conveying section 121. The cash is sterilized by the receiving sterilization section 131 and stored in the storage section 14. The flow of cash is shown by upstream and downstream.

[0086] It should be noted that, in the sterilization process in the sterilization priority mode, the sterilization action of the sterilization section 13 only needs to be performed by at least one of the receiving side and the discharging side. For example, the reflux conveying section 123 can be connected from the upstream of the discharging sterilization section 132 to the upstream of the receiving sterilization section 131 of the receiving conveying section 121 (without passing through the discharging sterilization section 132). In addition, the reflux conveying section 123 can also be connected from the downstream of the discharging sterilization section 132 to the downstream of the receiving sterilization section 131 of the receiving conveying section 121 (without passing through the receiving sterilization section 131).

[0087] In addition, the cash of the designated denomination for sterilization is discharged from the storage unit 14 and held on the conveying unit 12. The cash of the designated denomination is held by the conveying unit 12 and sterilized while being conveyed. When the sterilization of the designated denomination is performed and stored in the storage unit 14, the sterilization is completed.

[0088] It should be noted that the sterilization treatment of the cash in the storage section 14 can also be terminated after a specified time. For example, according to the sterilization instruction (without specifying the number of denominations), the cash is discharged from the storage section 14 one by one. The control of keeping all the cash on the conveying section 12 is not performed, and the cash is discharged from the storage section 14 while being sterilized in sequence. When a specified time (for example, 5 minutes) has passed, the last cash discharged is sterilized and stored in the storage section 14, thereby ending the sterilization treatment. The specified time setting is the time during which the cash in the storage section 14 can be sterilized. Depending on the time of the sterilization treatment, cash that cannot be sterilized may remain in the cash in the storage section 14. However, since the sterilization treatment is performed in the cash deposit and access priority mode, the sterilization treatment in the sterilization priority mode may not sterilize all the cash. In this way, the internal mechanism of the change machine 1 such as the endless belt can be reduced from being degraded by ultraviolet light.

[0089] It should be noted that, in the sterilization process in the sterilization priority mode, the sterilization control unit 101 sets the conveying speed of the conveying unit 12 to a speed that prioritizes the sterilization of cash. The conveying speed of the conveying unit 12 corresponds to the sterilization time of cash performed by the sterilization unit 13 during the sterilization process in the sterilization priority mode. Here, the speed that prioritizes the sterilization of cash, that is, the conveying speed in the sterilization priority mode is smaller than the conveying speed in the cash deposit and withdrawal priority mode. Therefore, the sterilization time of cash in the sterilization priority mode is greater than the sterilization time in the cash deposit and withdrawal priority mode. Specifically, the speed that prioritizes the sterilization of cash can be appropriately set based on the radiation intensity of the ultraviolet light performed by the sterilization unit 13, the distance between the sterilization unit 13 and the conveying surface 124, the time required for sterilization corresponding to the type of microorganisms or bacteria or viruses that are the objects of the sterilization process, and the like.

[0090] Figure 5 When it is not determined that the cash withdrawal process is to be executed (S104: No) and the sterilization process in the sterilization priority mode (S107) is completed, the process enters S106. The sterilization control unit 101 determines whether the process is to be completed (S106). For example, when the sterilization control unit 101 receives a power off instruction from the host device 9 to turn off the power of the automatic change machine 1, it determines that the process is to be completed. When it is not determined that the process is to be completed (S106: No), Figure 5 The process returns to the processing of S101 to judge the instruction from the host device 9. Based on the instruction from the host device 9, the processing of S101 to S107 is repeated. When it is determined that the processing is to be completed (S106: Yes), Figure 5 The process ends.

[0091] When using the automatic change machine 1, a user such as a clerk may directly handle coins and / or banknotes when checking out. Cash handled by an unspecified number of people may be attached with microorganisms, bacteria, viruses, etc. Therefore, for example, when a clerk of a restaurant returns to the lobby to work after checking out customers, it is necessary to perform disinfection work due to concerns about hygiene. Here, disinfection work refers to work that includes removing or sterilizing or inactivating at least a part of microorganisms, bacteria, viruses, etc. attached to fingers that have handled cash using soap or alcohol.

[0092] In such an environment, the automatic change machine 1 of the embodiment includes a receiving section 11, a storage section 14, a disbursement section 15, a conveying section 12, a sterilizing section 13, and a control section 100. The conveying section 12 includes a receiving conveying section 121 and a disbursement conveying section 122. The receiving conveying section 121 conveys the cash separated one by one by the receiving section 11 to the storage section 14. The disbursement conveying section 122 conveys the cash separated one by one by the storage section 14 to the disbursement section 15. The sterilizing section 13 is provided on the conveying path of at least one of the receiving conveying section 121 and the disbursement conveying section 122, and sterilizes the cash on the conveying path. The sterilization control section 101 of the control section 100 controls the conveying speed of the conveying section 12 so that the cash is conveyed at a first conveying speed in an access priority mode that gives priority to the deposit and access of cash, and is conveyed at a second conveying speed that is lower than the first conveying speed in a sterilization priority mode that gives priority to the sterilization of cash.

[0093] According to this configuration, in the automatic change machine 1, when cash is deposited or withdrawn, the cash can be sterilized (sterilization treatment in the cash deposit or withdrawal priority mode). In addition, after the cash is stored, the cash stored in the storage unit 14 can be automatically and regularly stored and transported repeatedly, and the sterilization state can be maintained (sterilization treatment in the sterilization priority mode). As a result, the effect of improving the hygiene of the user when handling cash can be obtained. In other words, the user's concerns about hygiene when handling cash can be eliminated. In this way, according to the technology involved in the embodiment, the stored cash can be properly sterilized.

[0094] In addition, the automatic change machine 1 according to the embodiment irradiates ultraviolet light on both sides of the separated cash conveyed by the conveying unit 12. Thus, unlike the case where the cash inside the storage unit 14 is irradiated with ultraviolet light, both sides of the cash can be sterilized without overlapping the cash, so the sterilized state of the cash can be maintained more appropriately.

[0095] In addition, the sterilization control unit 101 of the control unit 100 controls the conveying speed of the conveying unit 12 so that the cash is conveyed at a first conveying speed in the cash deposit and withdrawal priority mode that prioritizes the deposit and withdrawal of cash, and the cash is conveyed at a second conveying speed that is lower than the first conveying speed in the sterilization priority mode that prioritizes the sterilization of cash. The cash deposit and withdrawal priority mode assumes a scenario in which a customer checks out. Therefore, in order to reduce the waiting time of the customer, it is desired that the time for conveying cash is short. By making the conveying speed of the cash deposit and withdrawal priority mode faster than that of the sterilization priority mode, it is possible to prevent the waiting time of the customer from becoming longer when checking out.

[0096] (Second Embodiment)

[0097] It should be noted that, in the first embodiment, the case where the cash stored in the storage section 14 is sterilized in the sterilization priority mode using the disbursement conveyance section 122 , the return conveyance section 123 , and the receipt conveyance section 121 is exemplified, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Fig. 9 It is used to illustrate Figure 1 FIG. 1 is another diagram showing another example of the operation of the automatic change machine 1 during the sterilization priority mode during the sterilization process. Fig. 9 In FIG. 1 , arrows 55 and 56 show the flow of cash during the sterilization process in the sterilization priority mode.

[0098] exist Fig. 9 In the example shown, the automatic change machine 1 does not have the return conveyor 123. On the other hand, the storage unit 14 supplies the separated cash to the disbursement conveyor 122 and the collection conveyor 121. In addition, the collection conveyor 121 and the disbursement conveyor 122 are respectively configured to be reversible in the conveying direction.

[0099] The sterilization control unit 101 discharges cash of denominations and numbers corresponding to the sterilization instructions one by one through the storage unit 14. The sterilization control unit 101 conveys the cash separated one by one from the sterilization unit 13 to the side of the receiving unit 11 and the disbursement unit 15 through the receiving conveying unit 121 and the disbursement conveying unit 122. At this time, the conveying direction of the receiving conveying unit 121 is opposite to that of the above-mentioned embodiment. In addition, the sterilization control unit 101 irradiates ultraviolet light on both sides of the cash conveyed one by one through the sterilization unit 13. Thereafter, the sterilization control unit 101 conveys the cash sterilized by the sterilization unit 13 to the storage unit 14 and stores it in the storage unit 14. At this time, the conveying direction of the disbursement conveying unit 122 is opposite to that of the above-mentioned embodiment.

[0100] It should be noted that the cash sterilized by the receiving conveying unit 121 and the cash sterilized by the disbursement conveying unit 122 may be of the same denomination or of different denominations.

[0101] According to this structure, the return conveying unit 123 need not be provided, so the automatic change machine 1 can be miniaturized or the internal configuration can be arranged more freely. In addition, the amount of cash conveyed by the conveying unit 12 can be increased, so the time required for the sterilization process can be shortened.

[0102] (Third Embodiment)

[0103] It should be noted that, in each of the above-mentioned embodiments, the case where the cash stored in the storage section 14 is automatically sterilized in the sterilization priority mode is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Cash that is the object of sterilization in the sterilization priority mode may be deposited into the storage section 11 by a user such as a store clerk. In this case, the cash that is the object of sterilization may be either cash temporarily disbursed from the storage section 14 or cash prepared for replenishing the automatic change machine 1. The sterilization priority mode is changed according to the instruction from the host device 9. Furthermore, according to the instruction from the host device 9, an instruction is given to disburse cash from the storage section 14. According to the instruction, the sterilization control section 101 disburses in the sterilization priority mode (conveying cash at a second conveying speed that is smaller than the first conveying speed in the cash deposit and withdrawal priority mode). According to the instruction from the host device 9, an instruction is given to replenish cash to the storage section 14. According to the instruction, the sterilization control unit 101 conveys the cash inserted into the storage unit 11 to the storage unit 14 in the sterilization priority mode (conveys the cash at a second conveyance speed lower than the first conveyance speed in the cash deposit and withdrawal priority mode).

[0104] According to this configuration, the return conveying unit 123 may not be provided, so the automatic change machine 1 can be miniaturized or the degree of freedom of configuration of the internal structure can be increased. It should be noted that, when the technology involved in this embodiment is applied to the automatic change machine 1 involved in the second embodiment, the automatic change machine 1 can also be configured so that the user can also input cash from the disbursement unit 15.

[0105] (Fourth Embodiment)

[0106] It should be noted that, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the case where the cash is sterilized by irradiating the cash with ultraviolet light is exemplified, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the cash can also be sterilized by heating. Fig.10 It is shown Figure 2 A schematic diagram of another example of the structure of the sterilization unit 13. Fig.10 As shown, the sterilizing unit 13 includes an upper surface heating unit 135 and a lower surface heating unit 136. The upper surface heating unit 135 is configured to heat the upper surface of the cash 50 conveyed in the direction of the arrow 51 on the conveying surface 124. The lower surface heating unit 136 is configured to heat the lower surface of the cash 50 conveyed in the direction of the arrow 51 on the conveying surface 124.

[0107] The upper surface heating unit 135 and the lower surface heating unit 136 are respectively configured to heat the cash 50 on the conveying surface 124 to a predetermined temperature or above. In other words, the upper surface heating unit 135 and the lower surface heating unit 136 are respectively configured to generate heat at a predetermined heat flow rate or a predetermined temperature, so that the cash 50 on the conveying surface 124 is heated to a predetermined temperature or above. Here, the temperature of the cash 50 refers to, for example, the surface temperature of the heater side of the cash 50. Of course, the temperature of the cash 50 can also be specified by the center temperature of the cash 50. As each of the upper surface heating unit 135 and the lower surface heating unit 136, for example, a heating roller can be used. The heat generated by the heating roller can be either Joule heat or heat generated by IH (Induction Heating). It should be noted that the upper surface heating unit 135 and the lower surface heating unit 136 only need to generate heat at a predetermined heat flow rate or a predetermined temperature, and heating means other than the heating roller, such as a heater using radiant heat, can also be used.

[0108] The degree of heat generated by the sterilization section 13 in the sterilization priority mode can be appropriately set according to the specific heat capacity of the upper surface heating section 135 and the lower surface heating section 136, the material of the banknotes and coins, the setting of the conveying speed, etc., so that the temperature required for sterilization corresponding to the type of microorganisms, bacteria, viruses, etc. that are the objects of sterilization treatment is achieved on the conveying surface 124.

[0109] The heating (specified heat flow or specified temperature) and conveying speed of the sterilization unit 13 in the sterilization priority mode are set so that the temperature of the cash 50 as the heated object becomes, for example, 70°C or higher. The heating and conveying speed of the sterilization unit 13 in the sterilization priority mode are set so that the temperature of the cash 50 as the heated object is preferably, for example, 85°C or higher for more than 1 minute. The heating and conveying speed of the sterilization unit 13 in the sterilization priority mode are set so that the temperature of the cash 50 as the heated object is more preferably, for example, 92°C or higher for more than 15 minutes. The heating of the sterilization unit 13 in the cash deposit and withdrawal priority mode can be set to sterilize within the possible range according to the conveying speed.

[0110] It should be noted that the area on the conveying surface 124 heated by the upper surface heating unit 135 and the area on the conveying surface 124 heated by the lower surface heating unit 136 may not be the same.

[0111] It should be noted that, as described above, in each sterilization section of the receiving sterilization section 131 and the discharging sterilization section 132, the upper surface heating section 135 and the lower surface heating section 136 can also be integrally configured. In addition, the receiving sterilization section 131 and the discharging sterilization section 132 can also be integrally configured.

[0112] It should be noted that it is also possible to adopt a configuration in which it is not necessary for both the upper surface heating portion 135 and the lower surface heating portion 136 to generate heat, and at least one of the upper surface heating portion 135 and the lower surface heating portion 136 to generate heat.

[0113] It should be noted that the sterilization unit 13 may be a combination of the sterilization unit 13 of the first embodiment and the sterilization unit 13 of the fourth embodiment. In other words, the sterilization unit 13 may be configured to irradiate ultraviolet light on one of the upper surface and the lower surface and heat the other.

[0114] It should be noted that the sterilization unit 13 is not limited to ultraviolet light irradiation or heating, and any means that can sterilize microorganisms, bacteria, or viruses that are the target of sterilization treatment may be used. Other means such as spraying a sterilizing agent may also be used appropriately.

[0115] Even such a configuration can be arbitrarily combined with the above-described embodiments, and the same effects as those of the above-described embodiments can be obtained by the combination.

[0116] (Fifth Embodiment)

[0117] It should be noted that in the above-mentioned embodiments, in order to sterilize all cash of each denomination stored in each of the multiple storage spaces of the storage section 14, during the sterilization process in the sterilization priority mode, all cash of each denomination discharged from the storage section 14 is held by the transport section 12.

[0118] In such an environment, depending on the capacity of the storage unit 14 or the length of the conveying path of the conveying unit 12, sometimes the conveying unit 12 alone may not be able to hold all the cash of each denomination stored in each of the plurality of storage spaces. Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the automatic change machine 1 according to the embodiment may further include a temporary storage unit 16 for temporarily holding the cash discharged from the storage unit 14. The temporary storage unit 16 has a separation mechanism 161 similar to the receiving unit 11 or the storage unit 14, and separates the cash discharged from the temporary storage unit 16 one by one. It should be noted that the capacity of the temporary storage unit 16 can be appropriately set according to the capacity of the storage unit 14 or the length of the conveying path of the conveying unit 12.

[0119] With this configuration, all the cash stored in the storage section 14 can be sterilized appropriately in the sterilization process in the sterilization priority mode.

[0120] It should be noted that in the above-mentioned embodiments, for example, the return conveyor 123 may be used to perform automatic recounting of the balance of cash stored in the storage unit 14. This automatic recounting can be performed simultaneously with the sterilization process in the sterilization priority mode.

[0121] It should be noted that in each of the above-mentioned embodiments, since the conveying speed is high in the cash access priority mode, the sterilization time is short. In the case of the cash access priority mode, the sterilization control unit 101 can also set the radiation intensity or heat generation to be greater than that in the sterilization priority mode. The sterilization effect can be improved. Similarly, the conveying speed can be reduced in the sterilization priority mode, that is, the sterilization time can be extended. In the case of the sterilization priority mode, the sterilization control unit 101 can set the radiation intensity or heat generation to be smaller than that in the cash access priority mode to suppress the amount of power consumption.

[0122] It should be noted that, in each of the above-mentioned embodiments, the case where the sterilization treatment in the sterilization priority mode is started by the sterilization instruction from the upper device 9 is illustrated, but it is not limited to this. As an example, the sterilization control unit 101 starts the sterilization treatment in the sterilization priority mode according to the user's operation of the operating unit mounted on the automatic change machine 1. As another example, the sterilization control unit 101 starts the sterilization treatment in the sterilization priority mode at a predetermined time or a timing corresponding to the power off instruction that turns the power of the automatic change machine 1 into the off state. In this way, when the automatic change machine 1 determines whether to start the sterilization treatment in the sterilization priority mode, the storage unit 14 discharges the cash of the denomination and number corresponding to the instruction from the sterilization control unit 101 one by one. In addition, the conveying unit 12 conveys the cash at a speed corresponding to the instruction from the sterilization control unit 101. In addition, the sterilization unit 13 sterilizes the cash at a timing and time length corresponding to the instruction from the sterilization control unit 101.

[0123] It should be noted that, in the above-mentioned embodiments, an automatic change machine 1 connected to a host device such as a POS terminal is illustrated as an example, but the invention is not limited thereto. The automatic change machine 1 involved in the embodiments may also be an automatic change machine 1 mounted on a self-service type or semi-self-service type cash register. In this case, not only the store clerk but also the customer and other users can eliminate the concerns about hygiene when handling cash.

[0124] It should be noted that, in the above-mentioned embodiments, the automatic change machine 1 connected to or mounted on a cash register is exemplified, but the invention is not limited thereto. The technology involved in each embodiment can also be applied to a device that processes items other than cash, such as game tokens.

[0125] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, stored cash can be appropriately sterilized.

[0126] It should be noted that the control program 1021 executed by the automatic change machine 1 of the present embodiment is preliminarily incorporated into a ROM or the like and provided.

[0127] The control program 1021 executed by the automatic change machine 1 of this embodiment can also be provided by recording it in a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a floppy disk (FD), a CD-R, or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk) in an installable or executable form.

[0128] Furthermore, the control program 1021 executed by the automatic change machine 1 of the present embodiment may be saved on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet, and provided by downloading it via the network. In addition, the control program 1021 executed by the automatic change machine 1 of the present embodiment may be provided or published via a network such as the Internet.

[0129] The control program 1021 executed by the automatic change machine 1 of this embodiment makes the computer a module including the above-mentioned parts (sterilization control unit 101 and storage unit 102). The CPU (processor) reads the control program 1021 from the above-mentioned storage medium and loads the above-mentioned parts into the main storage device. Thus, the sterilization control unit 101 and the storage unit 102 are generated on the main storage device.

[0130] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are given as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These new embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments or their variations are included in the scope or spirit of the invention and are included in the invention described in the claim and its equivalent.

Claims

1. An automatic change machine, characterized in that: have: The receiving section receives cash such as coins or banknotes into the device and separates the received cash one by one; A storage unit for storing the cash received from the receiving unit, separating and discharging the cash of the denomination and number corresponding to the indication one by one; A disbursement unit disburses the cash discharged from the storage unit to the outside of the device; a conveying unit including a receiving conveying unit for conveying the cash separated one by one by the receiving unit to the storage unit, and a disbursement conveying unit for conveying the cash separated one by one by the storage unit to the disbursement unit; a sterilizing unit, provided on a conveying path of at least one of the receiving conveying unit and the disbursement conveying unit, for sterilizing cash on the conveying path; and A control unit controls the conveying speed of the conveying unit so that the cash is conveyed at a first conveying speed during the sterilization process in a cash deposit and access priority mode that gives priority to cash deposit and access, and the cash is conveyed at a second conveying speed that is lower than the first conveying speed during the sterilization process in a sterilization priority mode that gives priority to the sterilization of cash, and the sterilization process in the sterilization priority mode is started at a timing corresponding to a power-off indication that turns off the power of the device, and simultaneously with the sterilization process in the sterilization priority mode, an automatic recounting of the balance of the cash stored in the storage unit is performed.

2. The automatic change machine according to claim 1, wherein: The conveying unit further includes a return conveying unit that conveys cash on the conveying path of the disbursement conveying unit to the conveying path of the collection conveying unit. The control unit executes the sterilization process of sterilizing the cash discharged from the storage unit and storing the sterilized cash in the storage unit in the sterilization priority mode.

3. The automatic change machine according to claim 1, wherein: The control unit performs the following sterilization processing in the sterilization priority mode: the cash discharged from the storage unit is sterilized by moving back and forth through the sterilization unit on a conveying path provided with the sterilization unit in the receiving conveying unit and the disbursement conveying unit, and the sterilized cash is stored in the storage unit.

4. The automatic change machine according to claim 1, wherein: The sterilizing section is provided at both the intake conveying section and the discharge conveying section.

5. The automatic change machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The sterilizing unit includes an irradiating unit configured to irradiate the cash on the conveying path with ultraviolet light having a wavelength in a predetermined ultraviolet region.

6. The automatic change machine according to claim 5, wherein: The irradiation unit comprises: an upper surface irradiation unit for irradiating ultraviolet light to the upper surface of the cash; and The lower surface irradiation unit irradiates the lower surface of the cash with ultraviolet light. The conveying path includes a conveyor belt, and the conveyor belt includes a member that is transmissive to the ultraviolet light.

7. The automatic change machine according to claim 6, wherein: The upper surface irradiation unit and the lower surface irradiation unit deflect ultraviolet light from a common light source, thereby irradiating cash with ultraviolet light.

8. The automatic change machine according to claim 5, wherein: The control unit sets the radiation intensity to be smaller in the sterilization priority mode than in the cash deposit and withdrawal priority mode.

9. The automatic change machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The sterilizing unit includes a heating unit configured to heat the cash on the conveying path to a temperature not lower than a predetermined temperature.

10. A storage medium storing a program, characterized in that: The program is used to enable a device equipped with a receiving section for receiving cash as coins or banknotes into the device and separating the received cash one by one; a storage section for storing the cash received from the receiving section, separating and discharging the cash of the denomination and number corresponding to the instruction one by one; a disbursement section for disbursing the cash discharged from the receiving section to the outside of the device; a conveying section having a receiving conveying section for conveying the cash separated one by one by the receiving section to the receiving section, and a disbursement conveying section for conveying the cash separated one by one by the receiving section to the disbursement section; and a sterilizing unit, which is arranged on the conveying path of at least one of the receiving conveying unit and the disbursement conveying unit, and the computer of the automatic change machine that sterilizes the cash on the conveying path implements the following steps: Controlling the conveying speed of the conveying unit so that the sterilization process in the cash access priority mode that gives priority to cash access is carried out at a first conveying speed, and the sterilization process in the sterilization priority mode that gives priority to the sterilization of cash is carried out at a second conveying speed that is lower than the first conveying speed; starting the sterilization process in the sterilization priority mode at a timing corresponding to a power off indication that turns off the power of the device; And simultaneously with the sterilization process in the sterilization priority mode, automatic recounting of the balance of cash stored in the storage section is performed.

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