DEVICE FOR HANDLING VALUE NOTES

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device for handling notes of value, comprising a dispensing compartment for removing notes of value. The dispensing compartment is bounded on a first side by a storage element and on a second side by a limiting element. The device further comprises a control unit.

[0002] Devices for handling notes of value, particularly ATMs, are known from the prior art. These notes are presented to a user in bundles. For this purpose, the notes of value are removed from note cassettes, fed to an intermediate storage unit, and stacked by a stacking unit to form a stack of notes of value, which is then transported to the output compartment by means of a transport unit, for example, a carriage.

[0003] The disadvantage of these devices is that a lot of space is required for the buffer, the stacking unit and the transport unit and that the buffer storage in particular slows down the payout process.

[0004] EP 3 115 973 A1 discloses a device for handling notes of value with an output compartment. The output compartment has a movable storage element that can be moved from an initialization position to a feed position.

[0005] The object of the invention is to provide a device for handling notes of value, with the aid of which notes of value can be made available for dispensing in a simple manner.

[0006] This object is achieved by a device having the features of claim 1. Advantageous further developments are specified in the dependent claims.

[0007] The device with the features of claim 1 comprises at least a first sensor unit for detecting an initialization position of the storage element. The first sensor unit is designed to generate a first sensor signal and transmit it to the control unit. The control unit is designed to control a first drive unit for moving the storage element, wherein the control unit, based on the first sensor signal, controls the first drive unit such that the storage element is moved a predetermined distance away from the limiting element, from the initialization position, into a first feed position for feeding the notes of value. This achieves particularly simple and reliable control of the movement of the storage element into the feed position.

[0008] It is particularly advantageous if the first sensor unit comprises at least one sensor element, wherein the first sensor unit is arranged such that a first position of the sensor element can be detected with the aid of the first sensor unit, and the first sensor unit is configured to output the first sensor signal as a function of the detected first position of the sensor element. This achieves particularly reliable monitoring of the position of the sensor element.

[0009] It is particularly advantageous if the first sensor unit detects the first position of the sensor element when the storage element is in the initialization position, wherein the sensor element contacts the storage element and is moved toward the limiting element by the contact with the storage element. This allows for simple and accurate determination of the initialization position.

[0010] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the sensor element is a pressure element for the orderly deposit of the notes of value, which is pivotally connected to the limiting element, wherein the sensor element is movable between the raised first position and a lowered second position. This prevents uncontrolled movement of the notes of value during feeding into the output compartment. This creates an orderly stack of notes of value in the output compartment.

[0011] It is advantageous if the device comprises at least one second sensor unit for detecting a lower position of the storage element, wherein the second sensor unit is configured to generate a second sensor signal and transmit it to the control unit. Furthermore, the control unit is configured to control the first drive unit for moving the storage element in response to the second sensor signal. This allows for simple and reliable control of the movement of the storage element.

[0012] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the control unit is configured to actuate the first drive unit based on the second sensor signal such that the storage element is moved a predetermined distance toward the limiting element into the initialization position. This ensures a reliable movement of the storage element into the initialization position.

[0013] It is particularly advantageous if the device comprises a closure element that delimits the dispensing compartment on a third side in a closed position and that, in an open position, allows access to notes of value provided in the dispensing compartment. The closure element can be moved 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. This enables easy access to the notes of value provided for dispensing.

[0014] In an advantageous embodiment, the device comprises at least one third sensor unit for detecting the closed position and / or at least one fourth sensor unit for detecting the open position of the closure element. The third sensor unit is designed to generate a third sensor signal and transmit it to the control unit and / or the fourth sensor unit is designed to generate a fourth sensor signal and transmit it to the control unit. The control unit is designed to control a second drive unit for driving the closure element as a function of the third sensor signal and / or the fourth sensor signal. This achieves automated and simple control of the movement of the closure element.

[0015] It is advantageous if the device comprises a fifth sensor unit, which is arranged in particular in the output compartment and is configured to generate a fifth sensor signal and transmit it to the control unit when at least one note of value is received in the output compartment. This allows for simple monitoring of the output compartment.

[0016] Furthermore, it is advantageous if several notes of value received in the dispensing compartment form a stack of notes of value, wherein the notes of the stack of notes of value are arranged one above the other such that the bottommost note lies with its front or back on the storage element and that the topmost note contacts the sensor element with its front or back, wherein the direction from the bottommost note of value to the topmost note of value is a stacking direction of the stack of notes of value. This enables safe and reliable storage and stacking of the notes of value.

[0017] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the first sensor unit detects the first sensor element position when the stack of notes contacts the sensor element, whereby the sensor element is moved toward the limiting element upon contact with the stack of notes. This allows for simple monitoring of the height of the stack of notes.

[0018] It is advantageous if, based on the receipt of the first sensor signal and the fifth sensor signal, the control unit controls the first drive unit such that the storage element is moved a predetermined distance away from the limiting element from the first feed position to a second feed position or from the second feed position to a third feed position, such that additional notes of value can be fed into the output compartment. This ensures orderly storage and stacking of the notes of value in the output compartment.

[0019] It is particularly advantageous if the control unit for opening the output compartment is designed to control the first drive unit in such a way that the storage element is moved from the lower position or from the first feed position or from the second feed position or from the third feed position by a predetermined distance into a carry-along position, wherein the limiting element is moved from a first limiting position to a second limiting position during the movement of the storage element, and to control the second drive unit in dependence on the third sensor signal to move the closure element from the closed to the open position, wherein an engagement element of the limiting element engages with an engagement region of the closure element.This ensures that the volume of the dispensing compartment is increased in a particularly simple manner when opened, allowing particularly easy access to the notes of value prepared for dispensing.

[0020] It is advantageous if the first sensor unit and / or the second sensor unit and / or the third sensor unit and / or the fourth sensor unit and / or the fifth sensor unit comprise at least one detection element, wherein the detection element generates the sensor signal and transmits it to the control unit, and wherein the detection element preferably comprises a light barrier. This ensures that the sensor units are simple in design and cost-effective.

[0021] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the device comprises at least one third drive unit for driving transport elements for transporting the notes of value, wherein the transport elements can be driven in a first direction for feeding the notes of value into the output compartment and wherein the transport elements can be driven in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, for transporting the notes of value from the output compartment toward a note handling unit of the device. This achieves a compact design of the device.

[0022] It is particularly advantageous if the device comprises a sixth sensor unit for detecting at least one feature of the notes of value to be dispensed, wherein the control unit is configured to distinguish, depending on the feature detected by the sixth sensor unit, whether the note of value is a note of value permissible for dispensing, and if the control unit drives the third drive unit in the first direction if the sixth sensor unit detects a note of value permissible for dispensing. This ensures that only notes of value permissible for dispensing are fed to the dispensing compartment.

[0023] In an advantageous embodiment, the control unit is designed to control the second drive unit such that the closure element for removing the notes of value is arranged in the open position for a predetermined period of time and is moved into the closed position after the preset period of time. Furthermore, the control unit is designed to check whether the fifth sensor unit transmits the fifth sensor signal to the control unit after the expiration of the preset period of time. If the check shows that the fifth sensor signal is transmitted to the control unit, the control unit is designed to control the first drive unit such that the storage element is moved from the pickup position to a withdrawal position and to control the third drive unit such that the transport elements are driven in the second direction.This ensures that notes of value that are not removed from the output compartment are safely transported as so-called retracts from the output compartment, preferably into a retract-reject container.

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

[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 note issuing unit according to Figure 2 , Fig. 4 a perspective detailed view of the note issuing unit according to the Figures 2 and 3with opened closure element, 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 note issuing unit according to the Figures 2 to 9 , Fig. 11 a further perspective detailed view of the note issuing unit according to the Figures 2 to 10 , Fig. 12 a further schematic representation of the value note issuing unit according to the Figures 2 to 11, Fig. 13 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 12 is suitable, Fig. 14 a perspective detailed view of a section of the value note issuing unit according to Figure 13 , Fig. 15 the section of the note issuing unit according to Figure 14 , wherein a limiting element of the value note issuing unit is hidden, Fig. 16 a perspective detailed view of the storage element and pressure elements of the value note issuing unit according to the Figures 13 to 15 , Fig. 17 a further perspective detailed view of the storage element according to Figure 16 without pressure elements, Fig. 18 another perspective detailed view of the pressure elements according to Fig. 16 , Fig. 19 a flow chart of a method for initializing a value note issuing unit according to one of the Figures 2 to 18, and Fig. 20Signal diagram for controlling the initialization according to the sequence according to Figure 19 .

[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 the storage and transport of 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 that is permissible for payout or a second note of value 50 that is 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, 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 that are permissible for deposit are fed to the note cassettes 20 to 26, while notes that are not permissible 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 10 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 Dispensing compartment concealed by the closure element 60, in which the notes of value 48 intended for payment are made available for removal by an operator.

[0034] The output tray is in Figure 3 and is 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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 means of the transport unit 70 in a direction opposite to the direction T1.

[0038] The closure element 60 is a first inner closure element of the device 10, which is arranged as a "shadow" closure element 60 behind a second, not shown, outer closure element. The outer closure element 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 "shadow" closure element 60 remains closed, especially if the outer closure element is tampered with by unauthorized third parties.

[0039] Figure 3 shows a sectional view of a section of the value note issuing unit 16 according to Figure 2along the section plane A. During a payout process, the notes of value 48 are first transported towards the output compartment 72 via two transport belts, each deflected by two deflection rollers, whereby in the section view according to Figure 3 the 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.

[0040] 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 to the output compartment 72.

[0041] 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 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.

[0042] 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 96, 97 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.

[0043] The pressure element 96 is preferably pivotally mounted on the limiting element 76 and connectable 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.

[0044] 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 bottommost, i.e. the first fed note of value 48, lies with its front or back on the depositing 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 depositing 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 of value.

[0045] 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, the latter 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.

[0046] This movement moves the pressure element 96 from the second pressure position away from 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.

[0047] 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. In the 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.

[0048] As soon as all notes of value 48 intended for payment have been fed to the output compartment 72, the control unit 44 carries out steps for opening the output compartment 72, which are described below in connection with Figure 12will be described in more detail. The storage element 62 is moved in the direction of the limiting element 74 by means of the drive unit 94, the limiting element 74 being arranged such that it is moved into a second limiting position during this movement of the storage element 62. Furthermore, the control unit controls a further Figure 3 non-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.

[0049] 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. In the course of 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] Furthermore, the control unit 44 is configured 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 further increases the volume of the output compartment 72 when the closure element 60 is open, allowing easy access to the note 48 or stack of notes located in the output compartment 62. The position of the storage element is monitored by means of a sensor unit 140, wherein the control unit is configured to control the drive unit 94 depending on a signal from the sensor unit 140.

[0052] 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 the 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, a part of the gear arrangement 106 is visible. Furthermore, a second recess 164 is visible, which is arranged opposite the recess 64 and further facilitates access to the notes of value 48 in that an operator can reach with his fingers into the recess 64 under the notes of value 48 and into the recess 164 from above onto the notes of value 48. 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 the outer closure element (not shown) is also open at the same time.

[0053] Figure 5shows a section of a perspective sectional view of the 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.

[0054] Figure 6 shows 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 115 of the pressure element 97 interrupts the light beam emitted by the transmitter 110 of the sensor unit 99, which is therefore 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 6 the springs 106 and 108 are visible, which are elastically deformed by the respective engagement elements 102 and 103 when these are moved from the extended to the retracted position.

[0055] 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.

[0056] Figure 8 shows an enlarged detailed view of a part of the limiting element 76, the engagement 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.

[0057] 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 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] Figure 12 shows a further schematic representation of the value note issuing unit 16 according to the Figures 2 to 11, in which in particular sensor units 66, 68, 98, 99, 140, 142 for controlling the supply of notes of value into the output compartment 72 and for issuing notes of value are shown schematically.

[0060] To feed the notes of value 48 into the output compartment 72, the storage element 62 is moved into a first feed position with the aid of the drive unit 94. To move the storage element 62 into the first feed position, the control unit 44 is designed, in a first step, to control the drive unit 94 to move the storage element 62 depending on the sensor signals output by the sensor units 98 and 99. In this case, the storage element 62 is moved from an initial position, for example a lower position detectable with the aid of the sensor unit 140, upwards in the direction of the limiting element 74 until the storage element 62 contacts the pressure elements 96, 97 hinged to the limiting element 74, which are pressed into the second pressure position by the storage element 62. The second pressure position is detected with the aid of the sensor units 98 and 99, which transmit the sensor signal to the control unit 44.

[0061] At the time the second pressure position of the pressure elements 96, 97 is detected by the sensor units 98, 99, the storage element 62 is arranged in an initialization position. Based on the receipt of the sensor signals from the sensor units 98, 97, the control unit controls the drive unit 94 such that the storage element 62 is moved away from the limiting element 74 by a preset distance from the initialization position to a first feed position for feeding the notes of value 48. According to the invention, the distance is predetermined by a preset number of steps of a stepper motor of the drive unit 94.

[0062] As soon as the storage element 62 is in the feed position, notes of value 48 can be transported into the dispensing compartment 72 and deposited there. Preferably, from the moment the sensor 42 detects a note of value 48 eligible for dispensing and transmits the corresponding sensor signal to the control unit 44, the control unit 44 controls the drive unit 76 in such a way that the notes of value 48 can be fed into the dispensing compartment 72.

[0063] To monitor the output compartment 72, a further sensor unit 142, preferably an analog light barrier arrangement, is provided, which determines whether at least one note 48 to be paid out is deposited in the output compartment 72 or whether the output compartment 72 is empty. Upon detection of a note 48 in the output compartment 72, a corresponding sensor signal is transmitted to the control unit 44.

[0064] When the stack of notes of value 48 deposited in the output compartment 72 reaches a predetermined height and the deposit element 62 is in the first feed position, the pressure elements 96, 97 are deflected or pivoted into the second pressure position, wherein the sensor units 98, 99 transmit the corresponding sensor signal to the control unit 44.

[0065] Based on the detection of the sensor signal from sensor units 98 and 99 and the detection of the sensor signal from sensor 142, the control unit 44 controls the drive unit 94 to move the storage element 62 such that the storage element 62 is moved away from the first feed position by the limiting element 74 into a second feed position. This process can preferably be repeated twice, meaning that a third feed position for the storage element 62 can also be provided. In alternative embodiments, more or fewer than three feed positions can also be provided.

[0066] After all notes of value 48 intended for dispensing have been transported to the dispensing compartment 72, the dispensing compartment 72 is opened so that an operator can access the notes of value 48 provided in the dispensing compartment 72 for removal. To open the dispensing compartment 72, the control unit 44 is configured, in a first step, to control the drive unit 94 such that the storage element 62 is moved from the starting position in which the storage element 62 is located into a take-away position. The starting position can be the first feed position, the second feed position, the third feed position, or the lower position of the storage element 62, which can be detected with the aid of the sensor unit 140.

[0067] The take-away position is exemplary in the Figures 7 and 8shown and denotes a position of the storage element 62 in which the limiting element 74 is raised into the second limiting position by the storage element 62 or by the notes of value 48 deposited on the storage element 62 in such a way that the engagement elements 102, 103 of the limiting element 74 each engage with a projection 132 of the closure element 60 when the closure element 60 is opened, so that the limiting element 74 can be pivoted together with the engagement element 102 about its axis of rotation D2.

[0068] In a second step, the control unit 44 controls the drive unit 144 to open the closure element 60, wherein the engagement elements 102, 103 and the limiting element 74 come into engagement with the closure element 60 during the opening movement of the closure element 60 and are moved together with the closure element 60 until the closure element 60 reaches the Figures 4 and 5shown open position. In the course of 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 the third, open limiting position and is held in the open position by the closure element 60.

[0069] The control unit 44 controls the drive unit 144 to open the closure element 60, preferably depending on the sensor signal from the sensor units 66 and 68. The sensor unit 66 determines the closed position, and the sensor unit 68 determines the open position of the closure element 60. The control unit 44 controls the drive unit 144, in particular, such that the closure element 60 remains in the open position for a predetermined period of time to remove the notes of value 48 and is moved to the closed position after the preset period of time.

[0070] Notes of value 48 that have not been removed from the output compartment 72 must be transported as so-called retracts into the reject and retract container 54. For this purpose, the control unit 44 is designed to check whether the sensor unit 142 transmits the sensor signal to the control unit 44 after the expiration of the preset time interval. If this condition is met, the control unit 44 controls the drive unit 94 such that the storage element 62 is moved from the take-away position to a withdrawal position, in which the notes of value 48 can be removed from the output compartment 72 with the aid of the withdrawal rollers 92, 92a. Furthermore, the control unit 44 controls the drive unit 76 such that the withdrawal rollers 92, 92a are driven to transport the notes of value 48 into the reject and retract container 54.

[0071] Figure 13shows a perspective view of a value note dispensing unit 116 according to a second embodiment, which is intended for use in the device 10 according to Figure 1 alternatively to the value note dispensing unit 16 according to Figures 2 to 12. Elements with the same structure or the same function have the same reference numerals.

[0072] The representation according to Figure 13 is a perspective detailed view of the value note dispensing unit 116 with the closure element 60 open. The value note dispensing unit 116 has the same structure and the same function as the value note dispensing unit 16, but the pressure elements 96, 97 have been replaced by the pressure elements 196 and 197. The remaining structure and the other functions are identical.

[0073] 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 18) pivotally arranged so that the pressure elements 196, 197 are movable independently of the limiting element 96. In Figure 13 A 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 case of 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.

[0074] Figure 14 shows a perspective detailed view of a section of the value note issuing unit 116 according to Figure 13For simplified presentation and better clarity, several elements have been hidden. Compared to the representation according to Figure 13 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 13unchanged. 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.

[0075] In the same way 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 by the security note dispensing unit 116 into the output compartment 72. 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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 away from 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.

[0078] Figure 15 shows the section of the value note issuing unit 116 after Figure 14 , wherein the limiting element 74 of the value note issuing unit 116 is hidden.

[0079] Figure 16 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 13 to 15 In the present embodiment, the pressure elements 196, 197 are arranged Figure 17 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. 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 16As 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.

[0080] Figure 17 shows a further perspective detailed view of the storage element 74 according to Figure 16 without pressure elements 196, 197.

[0081] Figure 18 shows a perspective detailed view of the pressure elements 196, 197 according to Figure 16 .

[0082] Figure 19shows a flow chart of a method for initializing the value note issuing unit 16, 116 according to one of the Figures 2 to 18 . Figure 20 shows, based on the schedule, Figure 19 a signal diagram for controlling the initialization of a value note issuing unit 16, 116 according to one of the Figures 2 to 18 .

[0083] 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 to 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 sequence is then completed in step S6.

[0084] In the Figure 20 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.

[0085] At time T1, the drive unit 94 is activated to move the storage element 62 such 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 and198, 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 the controlled movement has been executed 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

[0086] 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 54Reject and retract container 60Closing element 62Storage element 64, 164Recess 70Transport unit 71Deflection roller 72Output compartment 73Transport belt 74Limiting element 76, 94, 144Drive 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 216, 217 Guide rod 218, 219 Guide opening 224, 226 opening 227, 228Guide element D1, D2, D3Axis of rotation R1, R2, T1Direction S1,S2Schwenkradius,

Claims

1. Device for handling bills (28, 48, 50), having a dispensing compartment (72) for retrieving bills (48) which comprises a depositing element (62) that delimits the dispensing compartment (72) on a first side, and a delimiting element (74) that delimits the dispensing compartment (72) on a second side; having a control unit (44), wherein the device comprises at least one first sensor unit (98, 99, 198, 199) for detecting an initializing position of the depositing element (62); that the first sensor unit (98, 99, 198, 199) is configured to generate a first sensor signal and to transmit the latter to the control unit (44); that the control unit (44) is configured to actuate a first drive unit (94) for moving the depositing element (62); wherein the control unit (44), proceeding from the first sensor signal, actuates the first drive unit (94) in such a manner that the depositing element (62) is moved into the dispensing compartment by a predetermined distance away from the delimiting element (74), from the initializing position to a first feeding position for feeding the bills (48), characterized in that the one predetermined distance is a preset distance which is predefined by a preset number of steps of a stepper motor of the drive unit (94).

2. Device according to Claim 1, characterized in that the first sensor unit (98, 99, 198, 199) comprises at least one sensor element (96, 97, 196, 197), wherein the first sensor unit (98, 99, 198, 199) is disposed in such a manner that a first position of the sensor element is able to be detected with the aid of the first sensor unit (98, 99, 198, 199), and in that the first sensor unit (98, 99, 198, 199) is configured to emit the first sensor signal as a function of the detected first position of the sensor element (96, 97, 196, 197).

3. Device according to Claim 2, characterized in that the first sensor unit (98, 99, 198, 199) detects the first position of the sensor element when the depositing element (62) is situated in the initializing position, wherein the sensor element (96, 97, 196, 197) contacts the depositing element (62) and as a result of contacting the depositing element (62) is moved in the direction of the delimiting element (74).

4. Device according to one of Claims 2 or 3, characterized in that the sensor element (96, 97, 196, 197) is a contact pressure element (96, 97, 196, 197) for the orderly depositing of the bills (48) which is pivotably connected to the delimiting element (74) or is pivotable independently of the delimiting element (74), wherein the sensor element (96, 97, 196, 197) is movable between the lowered first position and a raised second position.

5. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device comprises at least one second sensor unit (140) for detecting a lower position of the depositing element (62), wherein the second sensor unit (140) is configured to generate a second sensor signal and to transmit the latter to the control unit (44); and in that the control unit (44) is configured to actuate the first drive unit (94) for moving the depositing element (62) as a function of the second sensor signal.

6. Device according to Claim 5, characterized in that the control unit (44), proceeding from the second sensor signal, is configured to actuate the first drive unit (94) in such a manner that the depositing element (62) is moved by a predetermined distance toward the delimiting element (74), to the initializing position.

7. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device comprises a closure element (60) which in a closed position delimits the dispensing compartment (72) on a third side, and which in an opened position enables access to bills (48) provided in the dispensing compartment (72), wherein the closure element (60) for opening the dispensing compartment (72) is movable from the closed position to an opened position, and for closing the dispensing compartment is movable from the opened position to the closed position.

8. Device according to Claim 7, characterized in that the device comprises at least one third sensor unit (66) for detecting the closed position and / or at least one fourth sensor unit (68) for detecting the opened position of the closure element (60); in that the third sensor unit (66) is configured to generate a third sensor signal and to transmit the latter to the control unit (44), and / or in that the fourth sensor unit (68) is configured to generate a fourth sensor signal and to transmit the latter to the control unit (44); and in that the control unit (44) is configured to actuate a second drive unit (144) for driving the closure element (60) as a function of the third sensor signal and / or of the fourth sensor signal.

9. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device comprises a fifth sensor unit (142) which is in particular disposed in the dispensing compartment (72) and which is configured to generate a fifth sensor signal and to transmit the latter to the control unit (44) when at least one bill (48) is received in the dispensing compartment (72).

10. Device according to one of Claims 2 to 9, characterized in that a plurality of bills (48) received in the dispensing compartment (72) form a bill stack, wherein the bills (48) of the bill stack are disposed on top of one another in such a manner that the lowermost bill (48) by way of the front side thereof or the rear side thereof bears on the depositing element (62) and that the uppermost bill (48) by way of the front side thereof or the rear side thereof contacts the sensor element (96, 97, 196, 197), wherein the direction from the lowermost bill (48) to the uppermost bill (48) is a stacking direction (R1) of the bill stack; and in that the first sensor unit (98, 99, 198, 199) detects the first sensor element position when the bill stack contacts the sensor element (96, 97, 196, 197), wherein the sensor element (96, 97, 196, 197) as a result of contacting the bill stack is moved in the direction of the delimiting element (74).

11. Device according to Claim 10, characterized in that the control unit (44), proceeding from the reception of the first sensor signal and of the fifth sensor signal, actuates the first drive unit (94) in such a manner that the depositing element (62) is moved by a predetermined distance away from the delimiting element (74), from the first feeding position to a second feeding position, or from the second feeding position to a third feeding position, in such a manner that further bills (48) are able to be fed into the dispensing compartment (72).

12. Device according to one of Claims 7 to 11, characterized in that the control unit (44) for opening the dispensing compartment (72) is configured to actuate the first drive unit (94) in such a manner that the depositing element (62), proceeding from the lower position or from the first feeding position or from the second feeding position or from the third feeding position, is moved by a predetermined distance to an entrainment position, wherein the delimiting element (74) in the movement of the depositing element (62) is moved from a first delimiting position to a second delimiting position; and to actuate the second drive unit (144) as a function of the third sensor signal for moving the closure element (60) from the closed to the opened position; wherein an engagement element (102, 103) of the delimiting element (74) comes to engage with an engagement region of the closure element (60).

13. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first sensor unit (98, 99) and / or the second sensor unit (140) and / or the third sensor unit (66) and / or the fourth sensor unit (68) and / or the fifth sensor unit (142) comprise(s) at least one detection element, wherein the detection element generates the sensor signal and transmits the latter to the control unit, and wherein the detection element preferably comprises a light barrier.

14. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device comprises at least one third drive unit (76) for driving transport elements for transporting the bills (48), wherein the transport elements for feeding the bills (48) into the dispensing compartment (72) are drivable in a first direction, and wherein the transport elements for transporting the bills (48) out of the dispensing compartment (72) in a direction of a bill handling unit of the device (10) are drivable in a second direction, counter to the first direction; and in that the device comprises a sixth sensor unit for detecting at least one feature of the bills (48) to be disbursed, wherein the control unit (44) as a function of the feature detected by the sixth sensor unit is configured to distinguish whether the bill is a bill (48) cleared for disbursement; and in that the control unit (44) drives the third drive unit (76) in the first direction when the sixth sensor unit detects a bill (48) cleared for disbursement.

15. Device according to one of Claim 12, characterized in that the control unit (44) is configured to actuate the second drive unit (144) in such a manner that the closure element (60) for retrieving the bills (48) is disposed in the opened position for a predetermined period, and after the pre-set period is moved to the closed position; and in that the control unit (44) is configured to check whether the fifth sensor unit (142), after the pre-set period has elapsed, relays the fifth sensor signal to the control unit (44); and in that, should the check result in the fifth sensor signal being relayed to the control unit, the control unit (44) is configured to actuate the first drive unit in such a manner that the depositing element (62) is moved from the entrainment position to a discharge position; and to actuate the third drive unit (76) in such a manner that the transport elements are driven in the second direction.