DEVICE FOR HANDLING SECURITIES

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device for handling notes of value, comprising a note dispensing unit that includes a dispensing compartment for dispensing notes of value and a first closure element. The first closure element delimits the dispensing compartment in a closed position on one side and is movable from the closed position to an open position to open the dispensing compartment and from the open position to the closed position to close the dispensing compartment.

[0002] The locking element of the security note dispensing unit can be opened by criminal third parties, particularly by force, allowing them to gain access to the dispensing compartment and tamper with it. For example, so-called cash trapping devices, particularly pliers, can be inserted into the dispensing compartment to illegally remove security notes. Furthermore, an ignitable mixture, such as air with propane gas or air with acetylene, can be introduced into the safe module via the dispensing compartment and detonated. Alternatively, solid explosives or pyrotechnics can also be used.

[0003] Solutions in which camera units monitor the ATM are known from the prior art. For example, document DE 10 2011 010 737 A1 discloses using a camera to capture an image of the ATM at specified intervals and / or after detecting movement of objects in the area in front of the ATM and comparing it with a reference image. The image comparison can be used to determine whether the ATM's locking element has been tampered with.

[0004] Furthermore, state-of-the-art defense measures employing so-called ink bombs or paint bombs as anti-theft devices are known. If the safe module is opened without authorization, the ink bomb is triggered in such a way that the contents of the banknotes are rendered unusable by the ink. However, these measures have the disadvantage that they do not prevent the explosion itself and the associated damage and danger.

[0005] US 2017 / 0270736 A1 discloses a device for handling notes of value with an input / output unit that has two locking units. Access to the input / output unit is only possible when both locking units are open.

[0006] The object of the invention is to provide a device for handling notes of value which prevents unauthorized access to the dispensing compartment.

[0007] This object is achieved by a device having the features of claim 1. Advantageous further developments are specified in the dependent claims.

[0008] The device according to claim 1 comprises at least one second closure element that can be moved from an open position to a closed position and from the closed position to the open position. The second closure element is arranged such that access to notes of value provided in the dispensing compartment is only possible when the first closure element and the second closure element are each in their open position. This ensures a particularly secure closure of the dispensing compartment.

[0009] It is advantageous if the device comprises a first drive unit for selectively moving the first closure element from the closed position to the open position and from the open position to the closed position, and a second drive unit for selectively moving the second closure element from the closed position to the open position and from the open position to the closed position. This ensures that the first closure element and the second closure element can be moved independently of one another.

[0010] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the device comprises a control unit configured to control the first drive unit independently of the second drive unit and / or the second drive unit independently of the first drive unit. This independent control achieves a high degree of safety.

[0011] It is particularly advantageous if the first closure element and the second closure element are not mechanically coupled. This ensures that manipulation of the second closure element does not affect the first closure element.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, the second closure element, in the closed position, forms a portion of the surface of a closure unit of the device. This achieves a compact arrangement of the second closure element within the device.

[0013] According to the invention, the first closure element and in particular the second closure element are guided in at least one guide track during the movement from the closed position to the open position and during the movement from the open position to the closed position. This ensures a secure and consistent movement of the closure elements.

[0014] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the closure unit comprises an opening that can be closed by the second closure element, behind which the value note dispensing unit is arranged. This ensures a space-saving arrangement of the value note dispensing unit within the closure unit.

[0015] It is particularly advantageous if the value note dispensing unit is firmly connected to the locking unit by means of at least one fastening means, in particular via a frame of the device. This ensures a secure connection between the value note dispensing unit and the locking unit.

[0016] In an advantageous embodiment, the first closure element is pivotable about a first axis of rotation, and the second closure element is pivotable about a second axis of rotation different from the first axis of rotation. This allows for a flexible design of the device.

[0017] In an alternative advantageous embodiment, the first closure element and the second closure element can be pivoted about a common axis of rotation. This allows for a space-saving arrangement of the two closure elements.

[0018] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the first locking element, in the locking position, serves as a stop element for the notes fed individually into the dispensing compartment. This ensures orderly storage of the notes in the dispensing compartment.

[0019] It is advantageous if the first closure element and / or the second closure element comprise a metal layer, in particular a stainless steel layer, and / or a metal element produced in particular by means of a die-casting process or a metal sheet, in particular a metal element produced by means of aluminum die-casting, zinc die-casting, or magnesium die-casting, preferably using low-melting-point casting alloys, in particular aluminum alloys, zinc alloys, or magnesium alloys. This enables a simple and cost-effective manufacturing process for the closure elements, wherein the closure elements produced in this way have high flexural strength and can preferably withstand high temperatures.

[0020] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the first closure element and / or the second closure element are made of a plastic, in particular an electrically conductive plastic. This allows for cost-effective production of the closure element.

[0021] In a particularly preferred embodiment, at least one first sensor unit is provided for detecting a position, in particular the open or closed position, of the first closure element, and / or at least one second sensor unit is provided for detecting a position, in particular the open or closed position, of the second closure element. It is advantageous if the first sensor unit generates a sensor signal when the first closure element is in the open or closed position, and if the second sensor unit generates a sensor signal when the second closure element is in the open or closed position.The first sensor unit and / or the second sensor unit preferably transmits the sensor signal to the control unit, wherein the control unit is configured to control the first drive unit and / or the second drive unit depending on the transmitted sensor signal. This enables reliable monitoring of the position of the closure elements and simple and rapid control of the movement of the closure elements.

[0022] It is particularly advantageous if the control unit controls the first drive unit such that it moves the first closure element into the closed position or such that the first closure element remains in the closed position when the control unit controls the second drive unit to move the second closure element from the open to the closed position and the second sensor unit does not detect the closed position of the second closure element after a predetermined time interval. This achieves a high degree of security, particularly in the event of manipulation of the second closure element.

[0023] In a further advantageous embodiment, the control unit controls the second drive unit for moving the second closure element in such a way that it moves the second closure element into the closed position or that the second closure element remains in the closed position when the control unit controls the first drive unit to move the first closure element from the open to the closed position and the first sensor unit does not detect the closed position of the first closure element after a predetermined time interval. This achieves a high degree of security, particularly in the event of manipulation of the first closure element.

[0024] Further features and advantages will become apparent from the following description, which, in conjunction with the attached figures, will explain embodiments in more detail.

[0025] It shows: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a device for handling notes of value, Fig. 2 a perspective detailed view of a note dispensing unit according to a first embodiment with a closed closure element for use in the device for handling notes of value according to Figure 1 , Fig. 3 a sectional view of a section of the value note issuing unit according to Figure 2 , Fig. 4 a perspective detailed view of the note issuing unit according to the Figures 2 and 3 with the closure element open, Fig. 5 a section of a perspective sectional view of the value note issuing unit according to Figure 4, Fig. 6 a perspective view of a limiting element of the value note issuing unit according to the Figures 2 to 5 , Fig. 7 a perspective sectional view of some elements of the value note issuing unit according to the Figures 2 to 6 , Fig. 8 an enlarged detailed view of an engagement element according to Figure 7, Fig. 9 a perspective detailed view of a storage element and the limiting element of the value note dispensing unit according to the Figures 2 to 8 , Fig. 10 a further perspective detailed view of the value note issuing unit according to the Figures 2 to 9 , Fig. 11 a further perspective detailed view of the value note issuing unit according to the Figures 2 to 10 , Fig. 12 a perspective view of a locking unit which is connected to the value note issuing unit according to the Figures 2 to 11 can be connected, Fig. 13 a perspective view of a closure unit according to Figure 12 and the security note issuing unit according to the Figures 2 to 11 in connected state, Fig. 14 a further perspective view of the locking unit and the value note dispensing unit according to Figure 13 , Fig. 15 a perspective view of an output area of ​​the device according to the Figures 1 to 14, Fig. 16 a perspective view of a value note dispensing unit according to a second embodiment, which is suitable for use in the device according to Figure 1 alternatively to the value note issuing unit according to the Figures 2 to 15 is suitable, Fig. 17 a perspective detailed view of a section of the value note issuing unit according to Figure 16 , Fig. 18 the section of the note issuing unit according to Figure 17 , wherein a limiting element of the value note issuing unit is hidden, Fig. 19 a perspective detailed view of the storage element and pressure elements of the value note issuing unit according to the Figures 16 to 18 , Fig. 20a further perspective detailed view of the storage element according to Figure 19 without pressure elements, Fig. 21 another perspective detailed view of the pressure elements according to Fig. 19 , Fig. 22 a flow chart of a method for initializing a value note issuing unit according to one of the Figures 2 to 21, and Fig. 23Signal diagram for controlling the initialization according to the sequence according to Figure 22 .

[0026] Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a device 10 for handling notes of value 28, 48, 50. The device 10 comprises a head module 12 and a safe module 14. The head module 12 comprises a note dispensing unit 16 for dispensing notes of value 48 to be paid out to an operator. Notes of value 28, 48 are transported from the safe module 14 into the head module 12 via a transfer opening 18. The safe module 14 comprises four note cassettes 20 to 26, which serve for storing and transporting notes of value 28.

[0027] The notes of value 28 are stored in the note cassettes 20 to 26 in the form of a stack. One of these stacks is indicated by way of example in the first note cassette 26. One of the notes of value in this stack of notes is designated by the reference numeral 28. Figure 1 In the operating position of the value note cassettes 20 to 26 shown, the value notes 28 in the value note cassettes 20 to 26 are arranged standing on one of their edges. Each value note cassette 20 to 26 has an opening (not shown) for removing value notes 28. A separating unit 30 to 36 is arranged in front of the opening, with the aid of which the value notes 28 stored in the value note cassettes 20 to 26 can be individually removed from the value note cassettes 20 to 26 and thus separated.

[0028] As soon as a user initiates a payout process, notes of value 28 to be paid out are removed from the corresponding note cassettes 20 to 26 and, after being separated, are fed to a transport path 40. A sensor unit 42 is arranged along the transport path 40 and detects at least one feature of each note of value 28 to be paid out. The sensor unit 42 transmits a measured value of the detected feature to a control unit 44, which is designed to determine, depending on the detected feature, whether the note of value 28 is a first note of value 48 permissible for payout or a second note of value 50 not permissible for payout.

[0029] The control unit 44 controls a switch unit 46 such that the note 48 is fed to the note dispensing unit 16 if it is a note 48 that is permissible for payout. However, if the note is a note 50 that is not permissible for payout, the control unit 44 controls the switch unit 46 such that the note 50 is fed to an intermediate storage unit 52.

[0030] In order to avoid unnecessarily delaying the payout process for the operator, replacement notes 50 are removed from the note cassettes 20 to 26 for the notes of value not eligible for payout and, provided they are eligible for payout based on the features detected by the sensor unit 42, are transported to the note dispensing unit 16. Thus, the desired total amount can be dispensed to the operator without interrupting the payout process. After the payout process has been completed, the notes of value 50 not eligible for payout are fed via a further transport path 56 to a container 54, in particular a so-called reject and retract container 54, which is preferably designed in the form of another note cassette.

[0031] The reject and retract container 54 comprises, in particular, a first compartment for receiving the sorted notes 50 (so-called rejects) and a second compartment separate from the first compartment for receiving notes 48 not removed from the output compartment (so-called retracts). Thus, the rejects and retracts can be stored separately, making note tracing easy.

[0032] In an alternative embodiment, the device 10 can be designed as a recycling ATM, i.e., as a device 10 for dispensing and depositing notes of value 28. In this embodiment, the sensor unit 42 or a further sensor unit, particularly arranged in the head module, also checks the characteristics of the notes of value 28 that an operator feeds to the device 10 via a note dispensing and input unit. Notes of value 28 permitted for deposit are fed to the note cassettes 20 to 26, while notes of value that are not permitted for deposit are fed to the buffer 52. In other embodiments, the device 10 can comprise more or fewer note cassettes 20 to 26, as well as separate reject and retract containers 54.

[0033] Figure 2shows a perspective detailed view of the value note dispensing unit 16 of the device with a closed closure element 60. Elements with the same structure or the same function have the same reference numerals. The closure element 60 delimits a Figure 2 Output compartment covered by the closure element 60, in which the notes 48 intended for payment are made available for removal by an operator. The output compartment is in Figure 3 designated by the reference numeral 72 and will be described in more detail below. Figure 2 In the closed position of the closure element 60 shown, access to the output compartment 72 and to the notes of value 48 provided therein is not possible.

[0034] When displaying according to Figure 2A storage element 62 for storing the notes of value 48 prepared for dispensing is visible. The storage element 62 comprises a recess 64 arranged such that the notes of value 48 stored in the dispensing compartment 72 lie over a portion of the recess 64. When the closure element 60 is in the open position, access to the notes of value 48 is facilitated by the fact that an operator can reach into the recess 64 under the notes of value 48 with their fingers.

[0035] In Figure 2Furthermore, two sensor units 66, 68 are visible, wherein the sensor unit 66 is provided for detecting the closed position of the closure element 60 and the sensor unit 68 is provided for detecting an open position of the closure element 60. The sensor units 66, 68 generate a sensor signal upon detecting the respective position of the closure element 60 and transmit this sensor signal to the control unit 44. The control unit 44 is designed to Figure 2 non-visible drive unit for moving the closure element 60 depending on the transmitted sensor signal.

[0036] The security note dispensing unit 16 further comprises a transport unit 70, by means of which the security notes 48 removed from the safe module 14 are transported in a direction T1 to the dispensing compartment 72. The security notes not removed from the dispensing compartment 72 are transported by the transport unit 70 in a direction opposite to the direction T1.

[0037] The closure element 60 is a first inner closure element of the device 10, which serves as a "shadow" closure element 60 behind a second, in Figure 2 not shown outer closure element. The structure and function of the outer closure element are described below in connection with the Figures 12 to 16explained in more detail. The outer closure element 260 can be opened and closed independently of the closure element 60. Thus, the removal of notes of value 48 from the note dispensing unit 16 is only possible if both closure elements 60 are opened simultaneously. This achieves a particularly high degree of security, since the inner "shadow" closure element 60 remains closed, especially if the outer closure element 260 is tampered with by unauthorized third parties.

[0038] Figure 3 shows a sectional view of a section of the value note issuing unit 16 according to Figure 2 along the section plane A. During a payout process, the notes of value 48 are first transported in the direction of the output compartment 72 via two transport belts, each deflected by two deflection rollers, whereby in the sectional view according to Figure 3the transport belt 73 and the deflection roller 71 are visible. The notes of value 48 are then fed to further transport elements 80 to 90, with the aid of which the notes of value 48 are preferably fed individually to the output compartment 72. The transport elements 80 to 90 comprise transport rollers, impellers and pressure rollers, whereby in the illustration according to Figure 3 The transport roller 84 arranged on the shaft 80, the transport roller 86 arranged on the shaft 82 and the impeller 88, as well as the pressure roller 90 are visible. The shafts 80 and 82 are connected by a Figure 3 not visible gear arrangement and are driven by means of the drive unit 76.

[0039] When the notes of value 48 are fed into the output compartment 72, the drive unit 76 is controlled by the control unit 44 such that the shafts 80 and 82 are each driven in a first direction of rotation. In particular, the shaft 80 rotates counterclockwise and the shaft 82 rotates clockwise, so that the note of value 48 is fed into the output compartment 72.

[0040] If the notes of value 48 are not removed from the device 10, the so-called retracts are fed from the output compartment 72 to the reject and retract container 54. Removal is performed with the aid of removal rollers 92, which ensure that the notes of value 48 are removed from the output compartment 72, preferably individually or alternatively as a stack. When the notes of value 48 are removed from the output compartment 72, the shafts 80 and 82 are each driven in a second direction of rotation. In particular, the shaft 80 rotates clockwise and the shaft 82 rotates counterclockwise to remove the note of value 48 from the output compartment 72.

[0041] The output compartment 72 is delimited on a first side by the storage element 62 and on an opposite second side by a limiting element 74. The limiting element 74 comprises two pressure elements for the orderly storage of the notes of value 48, wherein in the illustration according to Figure 3only the pressure element 96 is visible, while the second pressure element 97 is in the Figures 4 , 6 , 9 and 10 The following description for the pressure element 96 also applies accordingly to the pressure element 97, which has the same structure and the same function as the pressure element 96.

[0042] The pressure element 96 is preferably pivotally mounted on the limiting element 76 and connected thereto. In the illustration according to Figure 3no notes of value 48 are deposited in the output compartment 72. The limiting element 74 is in a first limiting position and the pressure element 96 is in a first pressure position, with the pressure element 96 contacting the storage element 62. If a note of value 48 is fed into the output compartment 72, the movement of the note of value 48 is slowed down or stopped by the pressure element 96. In addition, the fed note of value 48 deflects the pressure element 96 in the direction of the limiting element 74. The pressure element 96 presses the fed note of value 48 against the storage element 62 as it is fed into the output compartment 72, thereby ensuring orderly storage of the notes of value 48.

[0043] The fed notes of value 48 form a stack of notes of value, wherein the notes of value 48 of the stack of notes of value are arranged one above the other in such a way that the bottom, i.e. the first fed note of value 48, lies with its front or back on the deposit element 62. The topmost note of value 48 contacts the pressure element 96 with its front or back. The direction from the bottommost note of value 48 to the topmost note of value 48 is a stacking direction R1 of the stack of notes of value. The more notes of value 48 are deposited on the deposit element 62, the higher the stack of notes of value formed by the notes of value 48 and the greater the deflection of the pressure element 96 in the direction of the limiting element 74. In the illustration according to Figure 3a sensor unit 98 is visible, which is designed to detect a second pressure position of the pressure element 96, which corresponds to a preset deflection of the pressure element 96 and thus to a preset height of the stack of notes.

[0044] The sensor unit 98 preferably comprises a light barrier with a transmitter and a receiver, which are arranged opposite one another. The sensor unit 98, which is assigned to the pressure element 96, and a further sensor unit 99, which is assigned to the pressure element 97, are described in connection with Figure 6 described in more detail. When the pressure element 96 is deflected into the second pressure position, a Figure 3An invisible interrupter element of the pressure element 96 interrupts the light beam emitted by the transmitter of the sensor unit 98, with the receiver detecting the interruption. As soon as the interruption of the light beam of the sensor unit 98 or the light beams of both sensor units 98, 99 is detected by the sensor unit 98, 99, it generates a detection signal and transmits the detection signal to the control unit 44. The control unit 44 then controls a drive unit 94, which moves the storage element 62 by a preset distance counter to the stacking direction R1 via a gear arrangement 95.

[0045] This movement moves the pressure element 96 away from the second pressure position of the limiting element 74, so that the second pressure position of the pressure element 96 is no longer detected by the sensor unit 98. Subsequently, further notes of value 48 can be fed to the output compartment 72, wherein the above-described process of moving the deposit element 62 counter to the direction R1 is repeated when the pressure element 96 is moved once again into the second pressure position by the deposited notes of value 48.

[0046] The storage element 62 comprises several rib elements, of which in the illustration according to Figure 3 a rib element designated by the reference numeral 100 is visible. Figure 3In the closed position of the closure element 60 shown, the rib element 100 engages in a complementary recess of the closure element 60. This makes access to the output compartment 72 by unauthorized third parties more difficult. The limiting element 74 further comprises an engagement element 102 which is arranged between a Figure 3 shown extended position and a retracted position.

[0047] As soon as all notes of value 48 intended for payout have been fed to the output compartment 72, the control unit 44 carries out steps for opening the output compartment 72. In a first step, the storage element 62 is moved with the aid of the drive unit 94 in the direction of the limiting element 74, wherein the limiting element 74 is arranged such that it is moved into a second limiting position during this movement of the storage element 62. In a second step, the control unit controls a further Figure 3non-visible drive unit 104 for moving the closure element 60 from the Figure 3 shown closed position to an open position. During the movement from the closed to the open position, the closure element 60 engages the engagement element 102 of the limiting element 74 arranged in the second limiting position.

[0048] After engagement with the closure element 60, the engagement element 102 and the limiting element 74 are moved together with the closure element 60 until the closure element 60 reaches the Figures 4 and 5 shown open position. During this joint movement of the limiting element 74 with the closure element 60, the limiting element 74 is moved from the second limiting position to a third, open limiting position.

[0049] During the movement from the closed position to the open position, the closure element 60 is guided in a guide track, wherein in particular a movement of the closure element 60 takes place about a virtual axis of rotation D1. The limiting element 74, on the other hand, is rotated about a second axis of rotation D2, which is different from the axis of rotation D1 and coincides with the longitudinal axis of the shaft 80. Thus, the pivot radius S1 of the closure element 60 is greater than the pivot radius S2 of the limiting element 74. The described arrangement of the closure element 60 and the limiting element 74 ensures that the engagement element 102 is moved from the extended to the retracted position, while the limiting element 74 is moved from the second limiting position to the third limiting position. In the process, the engagement element 102 deforms a Figure 3 non-visible elastic element, preferably a return spring.

[0050] Furthermore, the control unit 44 is designed to control the drive unit 94 to move the storage element 62 in the direction opposite to the limiting element 74 during the movement of the limiting element 74 from the second limiting position to the third limiting position. This ensures that the volume of the output compartment 72 is further increased when the closure element 60 is open, so that easy access to the note 48 or stack of notes located in the output compartment 62 is possible. The position of the storage element 62 is monitored with the aid of a sensor unit 140, wherein the control unit 44 is designed to control the drive unit 94 depending on a signal from the sensor unit 140.

[0051] Figure 4 shows a perspective detailed view of the value note issuing unit 16 according to the Figures 2 and 3 with the locking element 60 open. In the illustration according to Figure 4are in addition to those in Figure 3 In addition to the transport elements shown, the transport rollers 84a and 86a, the impellers 88a and 88b, as well as the take-off roller 92a and the second storage element 97 are also visible. Furthermore, part of the gear arrangement 107 is visible. Figure 4 In the open position of the closure element 60 shown, access to notes of value 48 stored in the receiving compartment 72 is easily possible, if at the same time the outer Figures 12 to 16 the closure element 260 shown is open.

[0052] Figure 5 shows a section of a perspective sectional view of the value note issuing unit 16 along the section plane B according to Figure 4 . When displaying according to Figure 5 In particular, the engagement between the engagement element 102 and the closure element 60 is visible, via which the limiting element 74 is held in the third limiting position.

[0053] Figure 6shows a perspective view of the limiting element 76 according to the Figures 2 to 5 . For illustration purposes, the pressure element 96 is shown in the first pressure position, the corner pressure element 97 in the second pressure position. During a payout process, however, the pressure elements 96, 97 always assume a corresponding pressure position. An interrupter element 109 of the pressure element 97 interrupts the light beam emitted by the transmitter 110 of the sensor unit 99, which is thus no longer detected by the receiver 111, so that the second pressure position of the pressure element 97 is detected by the control unit 44. In the first pressure position of the pressure element 96, however, the light beam between the transmitter 112 and the receiver 113 is not interrupted by the interrupter element 114. Furthermore, in the illustration according to Figure 6the springs 106 and 108 are visible, which are elastically deformed by the respective engagement elements 102 and 103 when they are moved from the extended to the retracted position.

[0054] Figure 7 shows a perspective sectional view of some elements of the value note issuing unit 16 according to the Figures 2 to 6 , in which the limiting element 74 is in the second limiting position and the closure element 60 is between the closed position and the open position.

[0055] Figure 8 shows an enlarged detailed view of a part of the limiting element 74, the engaging element 102 and a part of the closure element 60 according to Figure 7 . When displaying according to Figure 8The limiting element 74 is arranged in the second limiting position. A tip 130 of the engagement element 102, which protrudes from the limiting element 74 in the direction of the closure element 60, projects into the path of movement of a projection 132 of the closure element 60. Upon further movement of the closure element 60 in the direction R2, the projection 132 and the tip 130 engage with one another in such a way that the engagement element 102 is carried along by the closure element 60, so that the limiting element 74 is pivoted together with the engagement element 102 about its axis of rotation D2.

[0056] Figure 9 shows a perspective detailed view of the storage element 62 and the limiting element 74. Figure 10 shows a further perspective detailed view of the value note issuing unit 16. In the illustration according to Figure 10In particular, removal means 93, 93a, 93b, 93c arranged on the removal rollers 92, 92a are visible, which are preferably made of an elastomer and ensure the separation of the notes of value 48 classified as retracts but not removed from the output compartment 72.

[0057] Figure 11 shows a further perspective detailed view of the value note issuing unit 16 according to the Figures 2 to 10with the transport unit 70 for feeding the notes of value 48 into the output compartment 72 and for transporting the unremoved notes of value 48 towards the reject and retract container 54. During the dispensing process, the notes of value 48 are fed from the safe module 14 to the transport unit 70 via the transfer opening 18 and transported in the direction T1 to the output compartment 72. Unremoved notes of value 48 are transported out of the output compartment 72 in the direction T2 opposite to the direction T1. The transport path 120 of the notes of value 48 is delimited on a first side by the transport belt 73 and a base element 122 and on the opposite side by a cover element 124.

[0058] Figure 12shows a perspective view of a closure unit 200, which comprises an opening 262 that can be closed by the outer closure element 260. The value note dispensing unit 16 is arranged behind the opening 262 and is firmly connected to the closure unit 200 by means of fastening means (not shown), so that the closure unit 200 and the value note dispensing unit 16 together form part of the head module 12 of the device 10. This connected state will be described below in connection with the Figures 13 to 15 described in more detail. The outer closure element 260 is movable from the illustrated open position to a closed position by means of a drive unit and, in the closed position, forms a portion of the surface of the closure unit 200.

[0059] The movement of the outer closure element 260 from the closed position to the open position and from the open position to the closed position is effected by means of a drive unit (not shown) for moving the outer closure element, which is controlled accordingly by the control unit 44. During the movement from the closed position to the open position and during the movement from the open position to the closed position, the outer closure element 260 is guided in two lateral guide tracks 264, 266.

[0060] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the device 10 comprises a sensor unit (not shown) for detecting the open position of the outer closure element 260 and a sensor unit (not shown) for detecting the closed position of the outer closure element 260. The sensor units are preferably arranged in or behind the closure unit 200. Upon detecting the respective position of the closure element 260, they generate a sensor signal and transmit this sensor signal to the control unit 44, which is designed to control the drive unit for moving the outer closure element 260 depending on the transmitted sensor signal.

[0061] Figure 13shows a perspective view of the closure unit 200 and the value note dispensing unit 16 in the connected state. The outer closure element 260 and the inner closure element 60 are both in the open position, allowing access to the documents provided in the output compartment 72. Figure 13 Notes of value 48 (not shown) are possible. The outer second closure element 260 and the inner first closure element 60 are not mechanically coupled, so that opening or closing of the outer closure element 260 has no mechanical effect on the opening or closing of the inner closure element 60.

[0062] Furthermore, the control unit 44 is configured to independently control the drive unit for moving the inner closure element 60 and the drive unit for moving the outer closure element 260. The advantage of this separate control is explained using the following example.

[0063] If the control unit 44 controls the drive unit to move the outer closure element 260 from the open to the closed position, the sensor unit for detecting the closed position of the outer closure element 260 normally detects the outer closure element 260 after a predetermined time interval. If this time interval is exceeded, this is an indicator that the outer closure element 260 has been tampered with. To prevent access to the output compartment 72 by unauthorized third parties, the control unit 44 controls the drive unit for moving the inner closure element 60 after the predetermined period of time has elapsed in such a way that it moves the inner closure element 60 into the closed position or that the inner closure element 60 remains in the closed position.

[0064] At least one of the closure elements 60, 260 comprises a metal layer, in particular a stainless steel layer, or a metal element produced in particular by means of a die-casting process, or a metal sheet, in particular a metal element produced by means of aluminum die-casting, zinc die-casting, or magnesium die-casting, preferably using low-melting-point casting alloys, in particular aluminum alloys, zinc alloys, or magnesium alloys. Thus, the closure elements 60, 260 have high flexural strength and can also withstand high temperatures.

[0065] Figure 14 shows a further perspective view of the locking unit 200 and the value note dispensing unit 16. Figure 15shows a perspective view of a dispensing area 210 of the device 10. The dispensing area 210 is delimited by four boundary walls 246, 248, 250, 252 and, when the outer closure element 260 is closed, by the outer closure element 260. The distance between the boundary walls 216 and 220 has a value in the range of 18 cm to 25 cm. The distance between the boundary walls 222 and 218 has a value in the range of 8 cm to 25 cm.

[0066] When the outer closure element 260 is in the open position, in particular due to external manipulation, and the inner closure element 60 is in the closed position, the dispensing area 210 is delimited by the four boundary walls 216, 218, 220, 222 and by the inner closure element 60.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment, the control unit 44 determines a tampering state of the device 10 if the period of time during which the sensor unit for detecting the closed position of the outer closure element 260 does not detect the closed position exceeds a preset limit. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the control unit 44 controls the device 10 in an error operating mode from the time the tampering state is determined. In the error operating mode, the device 10 cannot be controlled by the operator to dispense notes of value 48. In a further preferred embodiment, the device 10 is automatically switched off from the time the tampering state is determined, and an error message is output to a central control unit of a financial institution or a service provider.

[0068] In the Figures 13 to 15In the illustrated embodiment, the outer closure element 260 and the inner closure element 60 are both pivotable about the rotation axis D1. In an alternative embodiment, the closure element 60 is pivotable about the rotation axis D1, and the outer closure element 260 is pivotable about a rotation axis different from the rotation axis D1. Alternatively, the outer closure element 260 and / or the inner closure element 60 can be moved along a path that is not circular in shape for opening and closing.

[0069] In a further alternative embodiment, one or both closure elements 60, 260 are made of a plastic, in particular of an electrically conductive plastic.

[0070] Figure 16 shows a perspective view of a value note dispensing unit 116 according to a second embodiment, which is suitable for use in the device 10 according to Figure 1suitable as an alternative to the value note dispensing unit 16 according to Figures 2 to 15. Elements with the same structure or the same function have the same reference numerals.

[0071] The representation according to Figure 16 is a perspective detailed view of the security note dispensing unit 116 with the closure element 60 open. The security note dispensing unit 116 has the same structure and function as the security note dispensing unit 16, but the pressure elements 96, 97 have been replaced by the pressure elements 196 and 197. The remaining structure and functions are identical.

[0072] In contrast to the pressure elements 96, 97, the pressure elements 196, 197 are not connected to the limiting element 76 but are rotated around a fixed axis of rotation (D3 in Figure 21 ) pivotally arranged so that the pressure elements 196, 197 are movable independently of the limiting element 96. In Figure 16A note of value 28 is arranged in the output compartment 72, which note is held on the storage element 62 by the pressure elements 196, 197 or pressed against the storage element 62. The pressure elements 196, 197 are actuated by means of springs 220, 221 in the Figure 13shown position of the storage element 62 against the storage element 62. To guide the movement, the pressure element 196 has a guide rod 216 which projects into a guide opening 218 and is guided against the spring force and in the direction of the spring force when the pressure element 196 moves. The spring 220 is designed as a spiral spring and is arranged around the guide rod 216. One end of the spring 220 presses against the pressure element 196. The other end of the spring presses against a fixed housing part of the output compartment 62. Similarly, in the pressure element 197, the spring 221 is arranged around a guide rod 217, wherein the guide rod 217 projects into a guide opening 219 and is guided in the guide opening 219 when the pressure element 197 moves.

[0073] Figure 17 shows a perspective detailed view of a section of the value note issuing unit 116 according to Figure 16For a simpler presentation and better clarity, several elements have been hidden. Compared to the illustration according to Figure 16 the limiting element 76 is arranged in a lower position. Furthermore, no note of value is arranged in the output compartment 72. The pressure elements 196, 197 are, despite the change in the position of the limiting element 76, Figure 16unchanged. When stacking multiple notes of value on the storage element 62, the pressure elements 196, 197 are raised. The pressure elements 196, 197 each have an interruption element 214, 215. When a predetermined stack height of the notes of value 28 stacked on the storage element is reached, the interruption elements 214, 215 enter the detection range of a sensor unit 198, 199 designed as a light barrier arrangement and interrupt the light beam between the transmitter (not shown) and the receiver (not shown). As a result, the control unit 44 receives information from a sensor signal from the sensor units 198, 199 that a predetermined stack height of the notes of value located in the output compartment 72 has been reached.This signal can also be used to adjust the height of the storage element 62 during initialization of the value note dispensing unit 116, as has been described for the value note dispensing unit 16 in conjunction with the pressure elements 96, 97 and sensor units 98, 99.

[0074] In the same manner as described for the pressure elements 96 and 97 of the security note dispensing unit 16, the pressure elements 196, 197 are in a first pressure position and the limiting element 74 is in a first limiting position before notes of value are deposited into the output compartment 72 by the security note dispensing unit 116. In this case, the pressure element 196, 197 contacts the deposit element 62. If a security note 28, 48 is fed into the output compartment 72, the movement of the security note is decelerated or stopped by the pressure elements 196, 197. Furthermore, the fed security note 48 deflects the pressure element 96 in the direction of the sensor unit 198, 199. The pressure elements 196, 197 press the supplied note of value 48 against the storage element 62 as it is fed into the output compartment 72 and thereby ensure an orderly storage of the notes of value 28, 48.

[0075] The fed notes of value 28, 48 form a stack of notes of value, with the topmost note of the stack of notes of value contacting the pressure elements 196, 197 with its front or back. The more notes of value are deposited in the output compartment 72, the greater the deflection of the pressure element 196, 197 in the direction of the sensor unit 198, 199. With the help of the sensor units 198, 199, a second pressure position of the pressure elements 196, 197 is detected, which corresponds to a preset deflection of the pressure elements 196, 197 and thus a preset height of the stack of notes of value. For this purpose, the respective interruption element 214, 215 interrupts the light beams emitted by the transmitter of the sensor units 198, 199, with the respective receiver detecting the interruption, whereby a detection signal is transmitted to the control unit 44.

[0076] Based on this, the control unit 44 controls the drive unit 94, which moves the storage element 62 via a gear arrangement 95 by a preset distance counter to the stacking direction R1. This movement moves the pressure elements 196, 197 away from the second pressure position by the sensor units 198, 199, so that the second pressure position of the pressure elements 196, 197 is no longer detected by the sensor units 198, 199. Further notes of value can then be fed to the output compartment 72, wherein the above-described process of moving the storage element 62 counter to the direction R1 is repeated when the pressure elements 196, 197 are moved once again by the deposited notes of value into the second pressure position.

[0077] Figure 18 shows the section of the value note issuing unit 116 after Figure 17 , wherein the limiting element 74 of the value note issuing unit 116 is hidden.

[0078] Figure 19 shows a perspective detailed view of the storage element 74 and the pressure elements 196, 197 of the value note dispensing unit 116 according to the Figures 16 to 18 In the present embodiment, the pressure elements 196, 197 are arranged Figure 20 shown pivot axis D3 and the pressure element 74 by a Figure 6shown pivot axis D2. In the present embodiment, the pivot axes D2 and D3 are parallel and spaced apart from each other. In other embodiments, the rotation axes D2 and D3 can also lie on a straight line, so that the pressure elements 196, 197 and the limiting element 74 are pivoted about the same rotation axis. In the value note dispensing unit 116, further spring elements 222, 223 are provided, which exert a force on the limiting element 74 in the direction of the storage element 62, so that the limiting element 74 is securely held in a lower position when value notes are deposited in the storage compartment 72 or the closure element 60 is closed. As in Figure 19As can be seen, the interruption elements 214, 215 are guided through openings 224, 226 in the limiting element 74. The interruption elements 214, 215 are each guided in their movement relative to the limiting element 74 by guide elements 227, 228 of the pressure elements 196, 197, wherein a projection serving as a stop is formed on the end of the guide element 227, 228 opposite the contact area with the note 28, 48 of the respective pressure element 196, 197. The projection limits the pivoting movement of the pressure elements 196, 197 relative to the limiting element 74 when the projection contacts the limiting element 74.

[0079] Figure 20 shows a further perspective detailed view of the storage element 74 according to Figure 19 without pressure elements 196, 197.

[0080] Figure 21 shows a perspective detailed view of the pressure elements 196, 197 according to Figure 19 .

[0081] Figure 22shows a flow chart of a method for initializing the value note issuing unit 16, 116 according to one of the Figures 2 to 21 . Figure 23 shows, based on the schedule, Figure 22 a signal diagram for controlling the initialization of a value note issuing unit 16, 116 according to one of the Figures 2 to 21 .

[0082] The initialization process begins with step S1. The lower position of the storage element 62 is then detected using the sensor unit 140. If necessary, the storage element 62 is moved into the lower position using the drive unit 96 to move the storage element 62. Subsequently, in step S3, the storage element 62 is moved in the direction of the limiting element 74 using the drive unit 94. In step S4, a check is then performed to determine whether the storage element 62 has moved far enough in the direction of the limiting element 74 until the storage element 62 has deflected the pressure elements 96, 97, 196, 197 to such an extent that the sensor units 98, 99, 198, 199 detect the respective interruption element 214, 215, 114, 115. If both sensor units 98, 99 or 198, 199 detect a second upper position of the pressure units 96, 97, 196, 197, the movement of the storage element 62 in the direction of the limiting element 74 is interrupted.Subsequently, in step S5, the storage element 62 is again moved away from the limiting element 74 by a predetermined distance with the aid of the drive unit 94, so that the storage element 62 is then arranged in the feed position in which notes of value can be deposited in the output compartment 72. The initialization process is then completed in step S6.

[0083] In the Figure 23 In the signal diagram shown, the top line shows the control of the drive unit 94 for moving the storage element 62. Line 2 shows the signal curve of the sensor unit 140 relevant for step S2, line 3 shows the signal curve of the sensor units 98, 198 relevant for steps S3 and S4, line 4 shows the signal curve of the sensor units 99, 199 relevant for steps S3 and S4, and line 5 shows the signal curve of the feed position reaching signal generated by the control unit 44.

[0084] At time T1, the drive unit 94 is controlled to move the storage element 62 in such a way that the storage element 62 is moved downwards into the lower position. After the sensor unit 140 has detected at time T2 (step S2) that the lower position of the storage element 62 has been reached, the storage element 62 is moved in the direction of the limiting element 74 with the aid of the drive unit (step S3) until the sensor units 98, 99 and 198, 199 each detect a second position of the storage elements 96, 97 and 196, 197 respectively (step S4) and the movements of the storage element 62 are stopped at time T3. The storage element 62 is then moved away from the limiting element 74 again in the direction of the lower position. After the sensor units 98, 99 andIf the pressure elements 198, 199 no longer detect the second position of the pressure elements 96, 97, 196, 197 at time T4, the storage element 62 is moved further downward by a preset distance. In the present embodiment, this is 21 steps of the stepper motor used to drive the storage element 62. After executing the controlled movement at time T5, the control unit 46 generates a signal indicating that the storage element 62 has reached the feed position for feeding notes of value into the storage compartment 72. List of reference symbols

[0085] 10Device 12Head module 14Safe module 16, 116Value note dispensing unit 18Transfer opening 20 to 26Value note cassette 28, 48, 50Value note 30 to 36Separation unit 40Transport path 42, 66, 68, 98, 99, 140, 142, 144, 198, 199Sensor unit 44Control unit 46Switch unit 52Intermediate storage unit 54Reject and retract containers 60, 260Closing element 62Storage element 64Recess 70Transport unit 71Deflection roller 72Output compartment 73Transport belt 74Limiting element 76, 94Drive unit 80, 82Shaft 92, 92aTake-off roller 84, 84a, 86. 221, 222, 223 Spring 114, 115, 214, 215 Interrupter element 110, 112 Transmitter 111, 113 Receiver 122 Base element 124 Cover element 130 Tip 132 Projection 200 Closure unit 210 Output area 216, 217 Guide rod 218, 219 guide opening 224, 226Opening 227, 228Guide element 246,248, 250, 252Boundary wall 262Opening 264, 266Sliding track , D1, D2Rotation axis R1, R2, T1Direction S1, S2Swivel radius

Claims

1. Device for handling bills, having a bill dispensing unit (16) which comprises a dispensing compartment (72), for dispensing bills (28, 48, 50), and a first closure element (60), wherein, in a closed position, the first closure element (60) delimits the dispensing compartment (72) on one side, and wherein, in order to open the dispensing compartment (72), the first closure element (60) is movable from the closed position into an opened position and, in order to close the dispensing compartment (72), is movable from the opened position into the closed position, wherein the device comprises at least one second closure element (260) which is movable from an opened position into a closed position and from the closed position into the opened position, wherein the second closure element (260) is arranged in such a manner that access to bills (28, 48, 50) provided in the dispensing compartment (72) is possible only when the first closure element (60) and the second closure element (260) are in their respective opened position, wherein the dispensing compartment (72) is delimited on a first side by a depositing element (62), and is delimited on an opposite second side by a delimiting element (74), characterized in that the first closure element (60) is guided during the movement from the closed position into the opened position in a slotted guide track, wherein a movement of the first closure element (60) takes place on a virtual rotational axis (D1), and in that the delimiting element (74) is rotated about a second rotational axis (D2) different from the virtual rotational axis (D1), wherein the pivot radius (S1) of the first closure element (60) is greater than the pivot radius (S2) of the delimiting element (74).

2. Device according to Claim 1, characterized in that the device (10) comprises a first drive unit for selectively moving the first closure element (60) from the closed position into the opened position and from the opened position into the closed position, and a second drive unit for selectively moving the second closure element (260) from the closed position into the opened position and from the opened position to the closed position.

3. Device according to Claim 2, characterized in that the device comprises a control unit (44) which is configured to actuate the first drive unit independently of the second drive unit, and / or to actuate the second drive unit independently of the first drive unit.

4. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first closure element (60) and the second closure element (260) are not mechanically coupled.

5. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in the closed position, the second closure element (260) forms a region of the surface of a closure unit (200) of the device (10).

6. Device according to Claim 5, characterized in that the closure unit (200) comprises an opening (262) which can be closed by the second closure element (260) and behind which the bill dispensing unit (16) is arranged.

7. Device according to Claim 6, characterized in that the bill dispensing unit (16) is fixedly connected to the closure unit (200) with the aid of at least one fastening means, in particular via a frame of the device.

8. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first closure element (60) is pivotable about a first rotational axis (D1), and in that the second closure element (260) is pivotable about a second rotational axis which is different from the first rotational axis (D1).

9. Device according to one of Claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the first closure element (60) and the second closure element (260) are pivotable about a common rotational axis (D1).

10. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in the closure position, the first closure element (60) serves as a stop element for the bills (48) fed individually to the dispensing compartment (72).

11. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first closure element (60) and / or the second closure element (260) comprise / comprises a metal layer, in particular a stainless steel layer, and / or a metal element which has in particular been produced by a high pressure die casting method, or a metal sheet, in particular a metal element produced by means of aluminium high pressure die casting, zinc high pressure die casting or magnesium high pressure die casting, wherein cast alloys with a low melting point, in particular aluminium alloys, zinc alloys or magnesium alloys, are preferably used.

12. Device according to one of Claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the first closure element (60) and / or the second closure element (260) are / is produced from a plastic, in particular from an electrically conducting plastic.

13. Device according to one of Claims 3 to 12, characterized in that at least one first sensor unit (66, 68) is provided for detecting a position, in particular the opened or the closed position, of the first closure element (60), and / or in that at least one second sensor unit is provided for detecting a position, in particular the opened or the closed position, of the second closure element (260), in that the first sensor unit (66, 68) generates a sensor signal when the first closure element (60) is situated in the opened or in the closed position, in that the second sensor unit generates a sensor signal when the second closure element (260) is situated in the opened or in the closed position, and in that the first sensor unit (66, 68) and / or the second sensor unit transmit / transmits the sensor signal to the control unit (44), wherein the control unit (44) is configured to actuate the first drive unit and / or the second drive unit in a manner which is dependent on the transmitted sensor signal.

14. Device according to Claim 13, characterized in that the control unit (44) actuates the first drive unit in such a manner that the latter moves the first closure element (60) into the closed position, or that the first closure element (60) remains in the closed position when the control unit (44) actuates the second drive unit in order to move the second closure element (260) from the opened into the closed position and the second sensor unit does not detect the closed position of the second closure element (260) after a predetermined time interval.