Method for processing value documents and value document processing system

Abstract

This invention relates to a method and system for processing valuable documents, particularly banknotes. The method comprises the following steps: determining first identification data, particularly a serial number, in at least one valuable document processing device, based on which valuable documents contained in multiple different batches can be identified; generating association data, based on which the first identification data of the valuable documents contained in the multiple batches is associated with the corresponding batches; transmitting the first identification data, particularly via an Internet service, to an external computing device; comparing the transmitted first identification data with pre-given second identification data, particularly the serial number, in the external computing device, based on which valuable documents to be withdrawn from circulation and / or to remain in circulation can be identified; and if the comparison reveals that at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation is contained among the valuable documents, then, based on the association data and the comparison result of the first identification data and the second identification data, identifying a batch containing the at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation from the multiple batches, and classifying the valuable documents contained in the identified batch in at least one valuable document processing device according to the comparison result of the first identification data and the second identification data.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and system for processing valuable documents, particularly banknotes. Background Technology

[0002] When producing valuable documents, especially banknotes, these documents are typically equipped with, and in particular printed with, identifying features such as serial numbers. Based on these identifying features, valuable documents can be identified and, for example, associated with a specific production batch. Furthermore, if banknotes are involved in crime, such as because they were stolen during a bank robbery or included in ransom payments, or if counterfeit versions of these banknotes are known to be in circulation, then banknotes in circulation can be tracked by periodically collecting their serial numbers or registering them in a central database. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to improve the processing of valuable documents, especially their classification.

[0004] The aforementioned technical problems are solved by the method according to the independent claims and the valuable document processing system.

[0005] In the method for processing valuable documents, particularly banknotes, according to the present invention, first identification data, particularly serial numbers, is determined in at least one valuable document processing device. Based on the first identification data, valuable documents contained in multiple different batches can be identified. Furthermore, association data is generated, and based on the association data, the first identification data of the valuable documents contained in the multiple batches is associated with the corresponding batches. Then, particularly via an Internet service, the first identification data is transmitted to an external computing device, where the first identification data is compared with pre-given second identification data, particularly serial numbers. Based on the second identification data, valuable documents to be withdrawn from circulation and / or to remain in circulation can be identified. If the comparison reveals that at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation is included among the valuable documents, then based on the association data and the comparison result of the first identification data and the second identification data, a batch containing the at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation is identified from the multiple batches. Furthermore, based on the comparison result of the first identification data and the second identification data, the valuable documents contained in the identified batch are then classified in at least one valuable document processing device.

[0006] The valuable document processing system according to the present invention for processing valuable documents, particularly banknotes, includes at least one valuable document processing device configured to determine first identification data, particularly a serial number, based on which valuable documents contained in multiple different batches can be identified, and particularly to transmit the first identification data to an external computing device via an Internet service. Furthermore, the valuable document processing device is configured to generate association data, based on which the first identification data of valuable documents contained in multiple batches is associated with the corresponding batches, and the association data is stored in a database. Additionally, the valuable document processing system includes an external computing device configured to compare the first identification data with pre-given second identification data, particularly a serial number, based on which valuable documents to be withdrawn from circulation and / or to remain in circulation can be identified. An inspection device is configured to check whether the comparison concludes that at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation is included among the valuable documents. The control device is configured to, if a comparison determines that at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation is contained among valuable documents processed by at least one valuable document processing device, identify a batch from multiple batches containing at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation based on associated data stored in a database and a comparison result of first identification data and second identification data. Here, the at least one valuable document processing device is further configured to classify the valuable documents contained in the identified batch based on the comparison result of the first identification data and the second identification data.

[0007] One aspect of the invention is based on a method in which, in an external computing device, a check is performed to determine whether a valuable document should be withdrawn from circulation, or which valuable documents should be withdrawn, based on first identification data, particularly serial numbers, of valuable documents contained in multiple different batches, and pre-given second identification data. In addition to the first identification data, association data is generated, which associates the first identification data with batches that contain or have previously contained the corresponding valuable document. Then, batches containing or previously containing the valuable document with that identification data can be identified from among the multiple batches based on the first identification data. Preferably, the association data additionally includes location information related to location, particularly location information related to the current location of the corresponding batch. This allows for tracking (so-called tracking) of the valuable documents contained in each batch being processed, enabling further processing of these batches after determining the first identification data, such as strapping (applying tax labels), sorting, and storage at their designated locations in a cash center, without the need to store them on or near a valuable document processing machine.

[0008] The second type of identification data is, for example, a so-called whitelist or a so-called blacklist. The whitelist contains identification data of valuable documents that are provided or released for circulation, while the blacklist contains identification data of valuable documents that are to be withdrawn from circulation.

[0009] The identification data is preferably a serial number or other personalized feature that can be used to identify a single securities document. Alternatively or additionally, the identification data can also be information that can be used to identify multiple or a large number of securities documents, such as an association number, which gives attribution to, for example, a batch, bundle, package, or specific issuance or series of securities documents. If the relevant series has, for example, printing defects or was issued for testing purposes, and the corresponding number of the securities series is included in a blacklist or not included in a whitelist, then the entire series or part of the series of securities documents can be withdrawn from circulation in a simple manner based on such an association number.

[0010] Identification data for valuable documents to be withdrawn from circulation is determined by comparing first identification data with pre-given second identification data on an external computing device. Then, based on the comparison result—that is, the identification data of the valuable documents to be withdrawn from circulation determined here—batches containing valuable documents having this identification data are identified, taking into account related data. The valuable documents contained in the identified batches are then classified according to the comparison result, wherein valuable documents to be withdrawn from circulation are sorted out.

[0011] Typically, most processed batches do not contain valuable documents to be withdrawn from circulation, so only a relatively small number of batches need to be identified and classified, while most batches, which do not contain valuable documents to be withdrawn from circulation, no longer need to be classified. That is, the latter batches are processed only once in at least one valuable document processing device, i.e., when the first identification data is determined. Therefore, the method described above is also called a "one-step process." Unlike the so-called "two-step process" (where classification is mandatory, i.e., all batches are classified based on the corresponding comparison results), in the current one-step process, only batches containing at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation are classified.

[0012] As described above, valuable documents to be sorted out, such as counterfeit, defective, and / or criminal documents, can be reliably withdrawn from circulation, or all other valuable documents can be reliably returned to circulation. Furthermore, the comparison of first identification data with pre-given second identification data performed on an external computing device (instead of in the valuable document processing device) allows for simple, centralized management, particularly updating, of the latter on the external computing device. Therefore, it eliminates the need for constantly and decentralized updating of the second identification data, in the form of whitelists or blacklists, required for determining classification data across multiple valuable document processing devices.

[0013] External computing devices are preferably understood as computer systems, particularly servers, preferably located in a central location, such as the headquarters of a central bank, and capable of exchanging data with valuable document processing devices via an Internet connection. Alternatively, external computing devices can also be so-called clouds, which have computer networks for performing the method steps described above.

[0014] If a comparison determines that classification is necessary, the corresponding batch of valuable documents can be classified, either decentralized or locally, i.e., at the location of the valuable document processing device, based on centrally pre-given current second identification data, through appropriate data connections between the valuable document processing device and external computing devices, particularly through Internet services such as File Transfer Protocol (FTP), email, or the World Wide Web (WWW).

[0015] Therefore, in general, the present invention allows for improved processing of valuable documents, and in particular, more reliable classification of valuable documents.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the comparison result of the first identification data and the second identification data includes first classification data, based on which valuable documents to be withdrawn from circulation and / or to remain in circulation can be identified. Preferably, a batch containing at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation is identified based on the associated data and the first classification data. Similarly, in at least one valuable document processing device, the valuable documents are preferably classified according to the first classification data. Here, in particular, the first classification data is transmitted from an external computing device to at least one valuable document processing device via an Internet service.

[0017] The first category of data preferably includes identification data of valuable documents to be withdrawn from circulation. In this sense, the first category of data corresponds to a local blacklist or a blacklist that matches valuable documents processed by at least one valuable document processing device.

[0018] Alternatively, the first category data can also contain identification data for valuable documents that need to be kept in circulation. In this case, the first category data corresponds to a local whitelist or a matching whitelist.

[0019] The implementation described above allows for the particularly reliable sorting of valuable documents to be withdrawn from circulation.

[0020] In another preferred embodiment, one or more features of valuable documents in at least one valuable document processing device are collected using one or more sensors, generating corresponding sensor data. Specifically, the sensor data is transmitted to an external computing device via an Internet service. In the external computing device, the valuable documents are examined based on the sensor data, particularly regarding their authenticity and / or status, to determine whether one or more valuable documents should be withdrawn from circulation and / or remain in circulation. If the examination of the valuable documents based on the sensor data indicates that at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation is contained within the valuable document portfolio, then, based on associated data and the results of the examination of the valuable documents based on the sensor data, a batch containing the at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation is identified from multiple batches. Furthermore, in at least one valuable document processing device, the valuable documents contained in the identified batch are classified according to the results of the examination.

[0021] In this way, in at least one valuable document processing device, valuable documents can also be reliably classified based on characteristics, such as authenticity and / or fitness, which can avoid the cumbersome (time-consuming) evaluation of sensor data in at least one valuable document processing device.

[0022] In another preferred embodiment, the result of the inspection of valuable documents based on sensor data includes second classification data, which identifies valuable documents to be withdrawn from circulation and / or to be kept in circulation. Preferably, batches containing at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation are identified based on correlation data and the second classification data. Preferably, the valuable documents are classified in at least one valuable document processing device according to the second classification data. This allows for particularly reliable sorting of valuable documents to be withdrawn from circulation.

[0023] In another preferred embodiment, when classifying valuable documents contained in an identified batch in at least one valuable document processing device, first identification data of the valuable documents is reacquired, and the valuable documents contained in the identified batch are classified based on a comparison of the reacquired first identification data with first classification data or second classification data. Advantageously, it is sufficient that the at least one valuable document processing device classifying the valuable documents contained in the identified batch can read only the first identification data, thereby eliminating the need for sensor systems beyond this scope, including evaluation software.

[0024] In another preferred embodiment, the method includes the additional steps of: determining one or more characteristics of a valuable document in at least one valuable document processing device using one or more sensors, generating corresponding sensor data, and selecting a portion of first identification data based on the sensor data, wherein the selected portion of the first identification data is transmitted to an external computing device. This eliminates the need to check some valuable documents in the external computing device to determine whether their identification data appears in a blacklist or whitelist, for example, when the sensor data determines that the valuable document must be selected, for example, due to its undesirable condition.

[0025] In another preferred embodiment, first identification data of the valuable documents is determined in the same valuable document processing device, and the valuable documents contained in the identified batch are classified. Here, (if the comparison between the first identification data and the second identification data requires classification of the valuable documents) the valuable documents of the identified batch are re-fed to the valuable document processing device that determined the first identification data at the beginning of the method. For this purpose, a signal can be output at the valuable document processing device notifying that the valuable documents contained in the identified batch need to be classified, or prompting the classification of these valuable documents, for example, "Re-place batch XX for classification!". Alternatively, if the classification of valuable documents contained in a batch is no longer required, a corresponding prompt can be output, for example, "Batch YY normal!", and further processing can be carried out by, for example, sorting, packaging, and / or re-entering the circulation of the valuable documents.

[0026] In another preferred embodiment, first identification data of valuable documents is determined in a first valuable document processing apparatus, and valuable documents contained in the identified batch are classified in a second valuable document processing apparatus, different from the first valuable document processing apparatus. Here, it is preferable to perform the acquisition of the first identification data of the valuable documents and, if necessary, the necessary classification, particularly reclassification, of the valuable documents based on comparison results in separate processing steps, particularly independent of each other in time and / or space. Thus, after the first identification data is acquired and associated data is generated during further processing, the batch can also be sent to another cash center, where, if necessary, classification data is provided and classification is performed. For this purpose, associated data is also provided in this other cash center.

[0027] In another preferred embodiment, additional second identification data is supplemented to the pre-given second identification data. This additional second identification data identifies valuable documents whose verification, particularly regarding authenticity and / or status, determines that they should be withdrawn from circulation and / or retained in circulation. Preferably, the authenticity or status of these valuable documents is checked based on sensor data generated by sensors of the valuable document processing device, and based on the results of the check, the relevant serial number is recorded as additional second identification data in a whitelist or blacklist stored in an external computing device. This allows for simple and reliable updating or expansion of the whitelist or blacklist formed by the pre-given second identification data during common valuable document processing methods.

[0028] In another preferred embodiment, when a comparison of the first identification data and the second identification data, and possibly an examination of the valuable documents based on sensor data, determines that the valuable documents do not contain any valuable documents to be withdrawn from circulation, the valuable documents, or a portion thereof, are released back into circulation only after the first identification data of the valuable documents has been determined. In this case, all valuable documents contained in the batch can be put back into circulation. Alternatively, the valuable documents, or a portion thereof, are released back into circulation only when the valuable documents contained in the identified batch have been sorted in at least one valuable document processing device based on the comparison of the first identification data and the second identification data, and possibly an examination of the valuable documents based on sensor data. In this case, only the valuable documents contained in the batch that were not sorted out during the sorting process (e.g., due to suspected counterfeiting or criminal involvement) can be put back into circulation, while the sorted-out valuable documents are processed separately, for example, destroyed, so that they can no longer be put into circulation.

[0029] During the time between determining the first identification data and the existence of a comparison result indicating whether or not the batch needs to be classified, the batch is preferably stored or kept outside the valuable document processing device, and if necessary, after being packaged or bundled with a banderole. Here, storage or keeping should be understood as storage of the batch that prevents it from entering circulation. For example, valuable documents are packaged and / or sorted and / or stored in a vault in a cash center and cannot leave the cash center. If a batch must be classified according to the comparison result, it may be necessary to remove the packaging or banderole and then return it to the same or another valuable document processing device for classification. Otherwise, if classification is not required, the batch will be released for circulation. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Other advantages, features and applications of the present invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0031] Figure 1 This illustrates a first example of a valuable document processing system; and

[0032] Figure 2 A second example of a valuable document processing system is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0033] Figure 1 A first example of a valuable document processing system 100 is shown, which has a first valuable document processing device 1, a second valuable document processing device 2, an inspection device 15, a control device 16, and an external computing device 3, which is connected to the first and second valuable document processing devices 1 and 2, for example, via Internet service 4.

[0034] In this example, multiple different batches 17 of valuable documents 6 are provided to the cash center 5 where the first and second valuable document processing devices 1 and 2 are located. In the first valuable document processing device 1, first identification data I1 for identifying the valuable documents 6, each contained in batch 17, is determined, for example, by processing an image of the valuable documents 6 captured by a camera 7 using an optical character recognition (OCR) algorithm, and reading or identifying the serial number printed on the valuable documents 6. Alternatively, the identification data I1 may have already been collected outside the cash center 5, for example, in so-called Deposit Killing, and provided to the cash center 5 along with the valuable documents 6.

[0035] The first identification data I1 is associated with batches 17 that each contain valuable documents 6 using the associated data. For example, in addition to the first identification data of the valuable documents contained in the batch, the associated data also includes information related to the identity of the batch. Or location-related identity information and / or location information. The associated data is stored in database 13 so that at any time a batch 17 containing a specific (e.g., identifiable by a serial number) valuable document 6 can be identified based on the associated data, and if necessary, the batch 17 can also be located within the cash center 5 based on the location information.

[0036] Additionally, in this example, one or more features of the valuable document 6 are detected using one or more sensors 8, such as infrared, ultrasonic, magnetic, optical, and / or capacitive sensors. The sensors 8 generate corresponding sensor data D characterizing the relevant features of the valuable document 6.

[0037] The sensor data can also be used to identify dual or multiple copies of the valuable document 6, output to the corresponding output tray of the valuable document processing device 1, and input back into the device 1 from there to determine the first identification data I1 of the valuable document 6 contained in the dual or multiple copies, so as to ensure that the first identification data I1 of all valuable documents 6 contained in the corresponding batch 17 is determined.

[0038] The first identification data I1, together with the sensor data D, is transmitted to the external computing device 3 via Internet service 4. At the same time, the batch 17 processed in the first valuable document processing device 1 is removed from the stacker 9, strapped and / or sorted if necessary, and temporarily stored, for example, in the vault 10.

[0039] In the external computing device 3, the first identification data I1 is compared with the pre-given second identification data I2, in particular the pre-given serial number, and the authenticity and / or status (so-called fitness) of the valuable document 6 is checked based on the determined sensor data D.

[0040] The second identification data I2 is stored in database 11 in external computing device 3, forming a so-called whitelist, based on which valuable documents 6 in circulation or determined for circulation can be identified. Alternatively, the second identification data I2 forms a so-called blacklist, based on which valuable documents 6 to be withdrawn from circulation can be identified. Here, it can be configured to supplement the pre-given second identification data I2 in database 11, especially when the pre-given second identification data I2 is on the blacklist, with identification data of valuable documents 6 classified as illegitimate based on sensor data D.

[0041] In the inspection device 15, the presence of at least one valuable document 6 to be withdrawn from circulation is checked based on a comparison of first identification data I1 and second identification data I2 performed in the external computing device 3, and, if necessary, also based on an inspection of the valuable document 6 using sensor data D. If the inspection indicates that all valuable documents 6 temporarily stored in the vault 10 can be put back into circulation, the batch 17 is allowed to leave the cash center 5 (arrow 18a), specifically without prior sorting. However, if the inspection indicates that the batch 17 temporarily stored in the vault 10 contains one or more valuable documents 6 to be withdrawn from circulation, for example because these valuable documents involve crime, are untrue, and / or are in a bad condition (unsuitable), the batch containing these valuable documents is identified in the control device 16. The identified batch is removed from the vault 10 and fed to the second valuable document processing device 2 for appropriate sorting (arrow 18b).

[0042] In this example, a first classification data S1 is determined by comparing the first identification data I1 with the second identification data I2. The first classification data S1 includes identification data of valuable documents 6 that are to remain in circulation or to be withdrawn from circulation. Accordingly, a second classification data S2 can be determined based on the sensor data D. The second classification data S2 contains identification data of valuable documents 6 whose authenticity or status is classified as normal or abnormal.

[0043] Preferably, the first and second classification data S1 and S2 are transmitted together or simultaneously from the external computing device 3 to the second processing device 2 via Internet service 4. Once the first and second classification data S1 and S2 are present in the cash center 5, the identified batch 17 can be retrieved from the vault 10 and fed to the second valuable document processing device 2 for classification. Here, there may be a time interval of several minutes or even several hours between processing the valuable document 6 in the first valuable document processing device 1 and classifying the valuable document 6 in the second valuable document processing device 2.

[0044] In order to enable the classification of valuable documents 6 contained in the identified batch 17 according to the first and second classification data S1, S2, the second valuable document processing device 2 is configured to, for example, re-acquire the first identification data I1 of the corresponding valuable document 6 using a camera 7. Based on a comparison of the re-acquired first identification data I1 with the transmitted first and second classification data S1, S2, the second valuable document processing device 2 can classify the valuable documents 6 and output them, for example, to different stackers 12a, 12b, 12c, wherein, preferably, stacker 12c contains the valuable documents 6 from the identified batch 17 to be withdrawn from circulation. However, alternatively, these valuable documents 6 can also be directly fed to a valuable document destruction device (not shown).

[0045] Preferably, the identification data of the valuable documents 6 sorted in the stacker 12c can be transmitted to the external computing device 3 via the Internet service 4, so that the pre-given second identification data I2 in the database 11 can be updated accordingly, for example, by deleting the serial numbers of destroyed or withdrawn valuable documents 6 from the whitelist. Preferably, the serial numbers of destroyed valuable documents 6 are not recorded in the blacklist to avoid excessive expansion of the blacklist.

[0046] On the other hand, after sorting, the valuable documents 6 output to the first and second stackers 12a and 12b can leave the cash center 5 and be put back into circulation (white arrow 18c).

[0047] The system described above has the particular advantage that the second identification data I2, for example in the form of a blacklist or whitelist (which contains a large number of entries and therefore requires a large amount of storage space), is centrally stored and managed, and does not need to be distributed, for example, in the relevant valuable document processing devices 1, 2 or each cash center 5. This avoids problems caused by insufficient storage and / or computing power of the valuable document processing devices 1, 2 or cash center 5. Furthermore, by moving the usually time-consuming comparison or inspection process to an external computing device 3, the valuable document processing devices 1, 2 are only needed when collecting the first identification data or classifying valuable documents contained in a batch, and the valuable document processing devices 1, 2 can then be immediately used for other batches, thereby enabling efficient processing of a series or multiple batches of valuable documents overall.

[0048] As an alternative to the example of the valuable document processing system 100 described above (in which the determination of the first identification data of the valuable document 6 and the classification of the valuable document 6 according to the first and possible second classification data are performed in different valuable document processing devices 1, 2), these two processing steps can be performed in only one valuable document processing device designed accordingly for this purpose, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0049] Figure 2 A second example of a valuable document processing system 100 is shown, which includes a valuable document processing device 1, an inspection device 15, a control device 16, and an external computing device 3, which is connected to the valuable document processing device 1 via an Internet service 4.

[0050] In this example, the valuable document 6 provided to the cash center 5 is first examined in the valuable document processing device 1 based on the characteristics of the valuable document 6 collected by one or more sensors 8, particularly the characteristics concerning its value and / or authenticity and / or status, and is then output to different stackers 12a, 12b, 12c according to its characteristics or the results of the examination.

[0051] Furthermore, by using optical character recognition (OCR) processing to process the image of the valuable document 6 captured by the camera 7, the first identification data I1 of the valuable document 6 is determined, such as the serial number printed on the valuable document 6.

[0052] The batches contained in the stackers 12a, 12b, and 12c are removed and further processed in batches, such as by strapping, bundling, stacking in ATM boxes, and / or sorting, and temporarily stored in the cash center 5, such as in the vault 10. The valuable document processing device 1 can then be used again to process additional valuable documents 6, i.e., to determine the first identification data I1, check it, and output it to the stackers 12a, 12b, and 12c.

[0053] The first identification data I1 of the valuable document 6 is associated with the batches output to the stackers 12a, 12b, and 12c, respectively, using the associated data. For example, in addition to the first identification data of the valuable documents contained in each batch, the associated data also includes identity and / or location information about the batch's identification or location. For example, the batch's identity information can be as follows: "Stacker 1 / Batch 1", "Stacker 1 / Batch 2", "Stacker 1 / Batch 3", etc., "Stacker 2 / Batch 1", "Stacker 2 / Batch 2", "Stacker 2 / Batch 3", etc., or "Stacker 3 / Batch 1", "Stacker 3 / Batch 2", "Stacker 3 / Batch 3", etc.

[0054] Then, at any time, a batch containing a specific valuable document 6, for example, that can be identified by a serial number, can be determined based on the associated data stored in the database 13, and if necessary, the batch can also be located within the cash center 5 based on location information.

[0055] The first identification data I1 of the valuable document 6 is transmitted to an external computing device 3 via Internet service 4, and there it is compared with a pre-given second identification data I2 stored in a database I1 on the external computing device 3. Figure 1 As in the example shown, the pre-given second identification data I2 preferably forms a whitelist or blacklist. (This is in conjunction with the preceding text.) Figure 1 The description also applies accordingly.

[0056] When comparing the first and second identification data in the external computing device 3, corresponding classification data S1 is generated, which contains identification data of valuable documents to be withdrawn from circulation, and is transmitted back to the cash center 5 via Internet service 4.

[0057] The inspection device 15 checks whether the valuable document 6 contains at least one valuable document 6 to be withdrawn from circulation, based on the comparison results, particularly the classification data S1. If the inspection result is positive, the control device 16 determines, for example, "stacker 2 / batch 3" the batch containing at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation, based on the associated data stored in the database 13. This batch is then removed from the vault 10 and re-fed to the valuable document processing device 1, where it is classified according to the comparison results, particularly based on the classification data S1. For this purpose, the first identification data of the valuable documents contained in the relevant batch is re-determined and compared with the identification data contained in the classification data S1. Depending on whether the re-determined first identification data matches the identification data contained in the classification data S1, the corresponding valuable document of the batch is output to a different stacker, such as stacker 12a or 12b. In this example, in this classification, the valuable documents to be removed from circulation are output to stacker 12a, while the valuable documents determined for re-circulation are output to stacker 12b. Then, for example, the former can be destroyed, while the latter can leave the cash center 5 again and enter circulation.

[0058] References above Figure 2 In a variation of the described process, it can be configured such that only the first identification data of valuable documents contained in a specific or selected batch is transmitted from the valuable document processing device 1 to the external computing device 3 for comparison, and the first identification data is associated with the selected batch using correlation data. Accordingly, the classification data S1 determined in the external computing device 3 may contain only the identification data of valuable documents contained in the selected batch.

[0059] For example, if, during the initial check of the authenticity and suitability of valuable documents, documents classified as authentic and suitable are output to stackers 12a and 12b, and documents classified as unauthentic and / or unsuitable are output to stacker 12c, it would be more efficient to transmit only the first identification data of the valuable documents contained in stackers 12a and 12b to an external computing device 3 for comparison with a whitelist and to generate corresponding associated data, since the recirculation of batches contained in stacker 12c is no longer possible anyway.

[0060] Accordingly, system 100 is configured to allow valuable documents whose first identification data has been transmitted to an external computing device to leave cash center 5 again only when there is a comparison result and the relevant batch has been classified based on classification data S1 in the case of needing to be reclassified.

[0061] Stored according to Figure 1 or Figure 2The whitelist in the database 11 of the valuable document processing system 100 is preferably created or updated according to the methods described in more detail below.

[0062] Preferably, especially during the manufacturing process of the valuable document, a second identification data, particularly a serial number, is set on the valuable document. The second identification data is collected during or after its manufacturing process and stored in database 11. Preferably, the second identification data in database 11 is associated with specific characteristics of the valuable document or manufacturing parameters, for example, by marking it as "unissued" and / or using manufacturing time and / or manufacturing location markings.

[0063] Then, at the point in time when the valuable document is issued, that is, when the valuable document is put into circulation, the corresponding identification data in database 11 is marked as "issued", and all the second identification data with the feature "issued" thus form a whitelist.

[0064] Here, if valuable documents in circulation are later destroyed in the valuable document processing device, the identification data of these valuable documents can be collected and transmitted to database 11. Here, in database 11, that is, in the whitelist, the corresponding identification data of the destroyed valuable documents is searched and marked as "destroyed".

[0065] It can also collect and transmit other characteristics of valuable documents related to the valuable document and / or destruction process, and associate them with second identification data in database 11. Such characteristics may include, for example, the destruction time and location, the identification number of the valuable document processing device, and / or the user's identification information.

[0066] Alternatively, the second identification data in database 11 can be updated manually, for example by marking the identification data of valuable documents that have not been destroyed by the valuable document processing device as "destroyed".

[0067] In this way, the latest whitelist is always present in database 11.

[0068] The following describes other preferred aspects related to the comparison of the first and second identification data and the maintenance or updating of the whitelist.

[0069] When comparing the first and second identification data in the external computing device 3, it is preferable to search for the transmitted first identification data I1 in the second identification data I2 stored in the database 11. If the second identification data I2 corresponding to the first identification data I1 is found, the date and time of comparing the first identification data I1 and the second identification data I2 can be stored in the database 11 and associated with the second identification data I2.

[0070] If no second identification data I2 corresponding to the first identification data I1 is found, or if the found second identification data I2 is not marked as "issued," but rather as "unissued" or "destroyed," then the corresponding first identification data I1 is transmitted as first classification data S1 to the cash center 5, for example, to the database or other management system of the cash center 5 (a so-called Vault Management System). The first classification data S1 can then be recorded in the local blacklist of the cash center 5 and provided to the valuable document processing device of the cash center 5. Preferably, the local blacklist of the cash center is updated at regular time intervals in this manner, for example, every 10 minutes.

[0071] In each further processing of valuable documents by the valuable document processing device in cash center 5, such as when classifying them by value and / or wear and tear, the first identification data I1 of the valuable document is re-collected and compared with the local blacklist, specifically the first classification data S1. If the first identification data I1 matches the local blacklist or the first classification data S1, a corresponding notification can be output to the employees of cash center 5, and the relevant valuable documents can be output to the output tray for rejected valuable documents. Employees can retrieve these valuable documents from the tray and feed them to a separate processing unit for suspected counterfeit valuable documents.

Claims

1. A method for processing valuable documents (6), the method comprising the following steps: - determining first identification data (ID1) in at least one value document processing device (1), from which first identification data it is possible to identify value documents (6) contained in a plurality of different batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c), - determining first identification data (ID1) in at least one value document processing device (1), from which first identification data it is possible to identify value documents (6) contained in a plurality of different batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c), - Using the at least one valuable document processing device, associated data is generated, and based on the associated data, the first identification data of the valuable documents (6) contained in multiple batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) is... ) is associated with the corresponding batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c), where, In addition to the first identification data of the valuable documents included in the batch, the associated data also includes identity information and / or location information related to the identity or location of the batch. - The first identification data ( Transmitted to an external computing device (3). - The transmitted first identification data is stored in an external computing device (3). ) and pre-given second identification data ( ) for comparison, and based on the second identification data, valuable documents (6) that need to be withdrawn from circulation and / or kept in circulation can be identified, and - If the comparison reveals that at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation is contained in the valuable document (6), then - In the control device (16), based on the associated data and the first identification data ( ) and second identification data ( The comparison results identified batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) from multiple batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) containing at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation, and - Based on the first identification data ( ) and second identification data ( The comparison results are used to classify the valuable documents (6) contained in the identified batch (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) in the at least one valuable document processing device (1, 2).

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, Valuable documents are banknotes.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein, First identification data ( ) is the serial number, and the second identification data ( ) is the serial number.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The first identification data (4) will be transmitted via Internet service. (3) is transmitted to an external computing device.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein, - First identification data ( ) and second identification data ( The comparison results include the first category data ( Based on the first classification data, valuable documents that need to be withdrawn from circulation and / or kept in circulation can be identified (6). - Based on the associated data and the first classification data ( Identify batches containing at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation (17; 12a, 12b, 12c). as well as - Based on the first category data ( The valuable document (6) is classified in the at least one valuable document processing device (1, 2).

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein the method comprises the following additional steps: - Using one or more sensors (8), one or more features of the valuable document (6) in the at least one valuable document processing device (1, 2) are collected respectively, and corresponding sensor data (D) is generated. - Transmit the sensor data (D) to the external computing device (3). - The valuable documents (6) are examined in the external computing device (3) based on the sensor data (D) to determine whether one or more valuable documents (6) should be withdrawn from circulation and / or kept in circulation, and - If an examination of the valuable document (6) based on the sensor data (D) reveals that the valuable document (6) contains at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation, then - Based on the associated data and the results of the examination of the valuable document (6) based on the sensor data (D), identify from multiple batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) a batch (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) containing at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation, and - Based on the results of the inspection, the valuable documents (6) contained in the identified batch (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) are classified in the at least one valuable document processing device (1, 2).

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein, The sensor data (D) is transmitted to an external computing device (3) via Internet service (4).

8. The method according to claim 6, wherein, Check the authenticity and / or status of the valuable document (6).

9. The method according to claim 6, wherein, - The results of the examination of the valuable document (6) based on the sensor data (D) include second-classification data ( Based on the second category of data, valuable documents that need to be withdrawn from circulation and / or kept in circulation can be identified (6). - Based on the associated data and the second classification data ( Identify batches containing at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation (17; 12a, 12b, 12c), and - Based on the second category data ( The valuable document (6) is classified in the at least one valuable document processing device (1, 2).

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein, When classifying the valuable documents (6) contained in the identified batch (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) in the at least one valuable document processing device (1, 2), the first identification data of the valuable documents (6) is re-acquired. ), and based on the first re-collected identification data ( ) and the first category data ( ) or the second category data ( The valuable documents (6) contained in the identified batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) are classified by comparison.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the method comprises the following additional steps: - Using one or more sensors (8) in the at least one valuable document processing device (1, 2), one or more features of the valuable document (6) are determined respectively, and corresponding sensor data (D) is generated. - Select first identification data based on the sensor data (D) Part of ) in, Select the first identification data ( A portion of the data is transmitted to the external computing device (3).

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The first identification data of the valuable document (6) is processed in the same valuable document processing device (1). The determination of the valuable documents (6) contained in the identified batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c).

13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The first identification data of the valuable document (6) is processed in the first valuable document processing device (1). The valuable documents (6) contained in the identified batch (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) are determined and classified in a second valuable document processing device (2) different from the first valuable document processing device (1).

14. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, For the pre-given second identification data ( The document is supplemented with additional second identification data, which identifies the following valuable documents (6), and the examination of these valuable documents (6) determines that these valuable documents should be withdrawn from circulation and / or kept in circulation.

15. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, For the pre-given second identification data ( The document is supplemented with additional second identification data, which identifies the following valuable documents (6), and the examination of the authenticity and / or condition of these valuable documents (6) determines that these valuable documents should be withdrawn from circulation and / or kept in circulation.

16. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, In determining the first identification data of the valuable document (6) After that, the valuable document (6) or a portion thereof will be released back into circulation only under the following circumstances: - First identification data ( ) and second identification data ( The comparison shows that the valuable document (6) does not contain any valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation, or - Based on the first identification data ( ) and second identification data ( The comparison results were used to classify the valuable documents (6) contained in the identified batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) in the at least one valuable document processing device (1, 2).

17. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, In determining the first identification data of the valuable document (6) After that, the valuable document (6) or a portion thereof will be released back into circulation only under the following circumstances: - First identification data ( ) and second identification data ( The comparison of the data (D) and the examination of the valuable document (6) based on the sensor data (D) lead to the conclusion that the valuable document (6) does not contain any valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation, or - Based on the first identification data ( ) and second identification data ( Based on the comparison results of the sensor data (D) and the results of the examination of the valuable documents (6), the valuable documents (6) contained in the identified batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) were classified in the at least one valuable document processing device (1, 2).

18. A valuable document processing system (100) for processing valuable documents (6), the valuable document processing system having: - At least one valuable document processing device (1, 2) is configured to determine first identification data ( Based on the first identification data, valuable documents (6) contained in multiple different batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) can be identified, and the first identification data ( ) is transmitted to an external computing device (3) to generate associated data, and the first identification data of the valuable documents (6) contained in multiple batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) is determined based on the associated data. ) is associated with the corresponding batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c), and the associated data is stored in database (13), wherein, In addition to the first identification data of the valuable documents included in the batch, the associated data also includes identity information and / or location information related to the identity or location of the batch. - External computing device (3), which is configured to transmit the first identification data ( ) and pre-given second identification data ( (6) By comparing the second identification data, valuable documents that need to be withdrawn from circulation and / or kept in circulation can be identified. - An inspection device configured to check whether a comparison concludes that at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation is contained in the valuable document (6), and - Control device (16), configured to, if a comparison determines that at least one valuable document (6) to be withdrawn from circulation is contained in the valuable document (6), then, based on the associated data and first identification data stored in the database (13) ) and second identification data ( The comparison results identified batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) from multiple batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) containing at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation. The at least one valuable document processing device (1, 2) is further configured to, based on the first identification data ( ) and second identification data ( The comparison results are used to classify the valuable documents (6) contained in the identified batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c).

19. The valuable document processing system (100) according to claim 18, wherein, Valuable documents are banknotes.

20. The valuable document processing system (100) according to claim 18, wherein, First identification data ( ) is the serial number, and the second identification data ( ) is the serial number.

21. The valuable document processing system (100) according to claim 18, wherein, The first identification data (4) will be transmitted via Internet service. (3) is transmitted to an external computing device.

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