METHOD FOR PROCESSING VALUE DOCUMENTS AND VALUE DOCUMENT PROCESSING SYSTEM

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for processing valuable documents, in particular banknotes, and to a valuable document processing system.

[0002] In the production of financial documents, especially banknotes, they are usually marked with an identification feature, such as a serial number, often by printing. This identification feature makes it possible to identify a financial document and, for example, assign it to a specific production batch. Furthermore, it is possible to track a banknote in circulation by regularly recording its serial number or to register a banknote in a central database, for example, if the banknote was involved in a crime, such as being stolen in a bank robbery or included in a ransom payment, or if it becomes known that counterfeit versions of the banknote have been put into circulation.

[0003] US Patent 2015 / 014693 A1 describes a method in which banknotes are transported past an image scanner to one or more dispensing containers. An image is captured for each banknote to generate image data from which a visually readable image of each banknote can be reproduced. An attempt is made to extract and / or determine the serial number, denomination, and / or secondary identifiers of a banknote from the image data associated with the banknote. The banknote's serial number consists of an integer X of characters. If one or more of the X characters of the banknote's serial number cannot be extracted with a specified level of certainty, a serial number field in an electronic record associated with the banknote is populated with a snippet of the serial number image as a response to this failure. The electronic record is stored in non-volatile memory.

[0004] It is an object of the present invention to improve the processing, in particular the sorting, of valuable documents.

[0005] This problem is solved by the method according to claim 1 and the document processing system according to the independent claims.

[0006] In the inventive method for processing securities, in particular banknotes, initial identification data, in particular serial numbers, by which the securities contained in several different batches can be identified, are determined in at least one securities processing device. Furthermore, allocation data is generated by means of which the initial identification data of the securities contained in the several batches are assigned to the respective batch. The initial identification data are then transmitted, in particular via an internet service, to an external computing device, where the initial identification data are compared with predetermined second identification data, in particular serial numbers, by means of which securities are to be withdrawn from circulation and / or remain in circulation.If the comparison reveals that at least one document in the valuables is to be withdrawn from circulation, the batch containing this document is identified from the multiple batches based on the allocation data and the result of comparing the first identification data with the second identification data. Furthermore, the valuables contained in the identified batch are then sorted in the at least one valuables processing device according to the result of comparing the first identification data with the second identification data.

[0007] The document processing system according to the invention for processing documents of value, in particular banknotes, comprises at least one document processing device which is configured to determine initial identification data, in particular serial numbers, by means of which the documents of value contained in several different batches can be identified, and to transmit the initial identification data, in particular via an internet service, to an external computing device. The document processing device is also configured to generate allocation data by means of which the initial identification data of the documents of value contained in the several batches are assigned to the respective batch, and to store the allocation data in a database.The security document processing system also includes an external computing device configured to compare the initial identification data with predefined secondary identification data, particularly serial numbers, by which security documents can be identified as either being withdrawn from circulation or remaining in circulation. A verification device is installed to check whether the comparison reveals that the security documents contain at least one document that should be withdrawn from circulation.A control device is configured to identify, from among several batches, the batch containing the at least one security document to be withdrawn from circulation. This identification is based on the allocation data stored in the database and a comparison of the first and second identification data. The comparison reveals that the security documents processed by the at least one security document processing device contain at least one document to be withdrawn from circulation. Furthermore, the at least one security document processing device is configured to sort the security documents contained in the identified batch based on the comparison of the first and second identification data.

[0008] One aspect of the invention is based on the approach of using initial identification data, in particular serial numbers, which identify the securities contained in several different batches, and predetermined second identification data in an external computing device to check whether and which of the securities should be withdrawn from circulation. In addition to the initial identification data, allocation data is also generated, which links the initial identification data to the batch in which the respective securities are or were contained. Based on the initial identification data, the batch containing the securities with this identification data can then be identified from among several batches. Preferably, the allocation data also includes location information about the place, in particular the current location, where the respective batch is located. This enables tracking (so-called...)Tracking) of the processed batches based on the security documents contained therein is enabled, so that after the initial identification data has been determined, the batches can be further processed as desired, e.g. banded, picked and stored in a designated location in the cash center, without having to be kept at or near the security document processing machine.

[0009] The second set of identification data includes, for example, a so-called whitelist, which contains the identification data of securities intended for circulation or released for circulation, or a so-called blacklist, which contains the identification data of securities to be removed from circulation.

[0010] The identification data preferably consists of serial numbers or other unique characteristics of the respective security document, by which the individual security document can be identified. Alternatively or additionally, the identification data can also be information by which several or a large number of security documents can be identified, for example, an allocation number that indicates the securities' affiliation with, for example, a batch, a container, a package, or a specific issue or series of security documents. Using such an allocation number, entire series or sub-series of security documents can be easily withdrawn from circulation if the series in question have a printing defect or were issued for testing purposes and the corresponding number of the security series is included in the blacklist or not included in the whitelist.

[0011] By comparing the first identification data with the predefined second identification data in the external computing device, the identification data of those securities to be withdrawn from circulation are determined. Based on the comparison result, i.e., the identification data of the securities to be removed from circulation, the batch containing the securities with these identification data is then identified, taking the allocation data into account. The securities contained in the identified batch are subsequently sorted according to the comparison result, with those securities to be withdrawn from circulation being sorted out.

[0012] As a rule, the majority of processed batches do not contain any valuable documents to be withdrawn from circulation, so usually only a relatively small number of batches need to be identified and sorted. Most batches, however, do not contain any valuable documents to be removed from circulation and therefore do not need to be sorted. These latter batches are processed only once in the at least one valuable document processing device, namely when the initial identification data is determined. Therefore, the procedure described above is also referred to as a "1-Step Process." Unlike a so-called "2-Step Process," in which sorting is mandatory (i.e., all batches are sorted based on the respective comparison results), in the present 1-Step Process, only those batches containing at least one valuable document to be withdrawn from circulation are sorted.

[0013] In the manner described above, valuables that need to be sorted out—for example, counterfeit, defective, and / or documents implicated in a crime—can be selectively and reliably removed from circulation, and all other valuables can be reliably reintroduced into circulation. Furthermore, comparing the first identification data with the predefined second identification data in an external computing device—instead of within the valuables processing device itself—allows the latter to be managed, and in particular updated, easily and centrally in the external computing device. The second identification data required for determining the sorting data, e.g., in the form of a whitelist or blacklist, therefore does not need to be constantly updated decentrally on multiple valuables processing devices.

[0014] An external computing device is preferably understood to be a computer system, in particular a server, which is preferably located at a central location, for example the headquarters of a central bank, and which can exchange data with the securities processing devices via an internet connection. Alternatively, the external computing device can also be a so-called cloud, which comprises a computer network for carrying out the aforementioned process steps.

[0015] Through a suitable data connection, in particular through an internet service such as File Transfer Protocol (FTP), email or the World Wide Web (WWW), the security document processing device can be connected to the external computing device, allowing the security documents of the respective identified batch(es) to be sorted decentrally or locally, i.e. at the location of the security document processing device, based on the centrally specified current second identification data, if the comparison has revealed the need for sorting.

[0016] Overall, the invention thus allows for improved processing of valuable documents, in particular more reliable sorting of valuable documents.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the result of comparing the first identification data with the second identification data includes initial sorting data, which identifies securities that are to be withdrawn from circulation and / or remain in circulation. Preferably, the batch containing the at least one securities document to be withdrawn from circulation is identified using the allocation data and the initial sorting data. Similarly, the sorting of the securities in the at least one securities document processing device preferably takes place based on the initial sorting data. The initial sorting data is transmitted from the external computing device to the at least one securities document processing device, particularly via an internet service.

[0018] The initial sorting data preferably contains identification data of those securities that are to be withdrawn from circulation. In this sense, the initial sorting data corresponds to a local blacklist or a blacklist adapted to the securities processed by the at least one securities processing device.

[0019] Alternatively, the initial sorting data can also contain identification data of those valuable documents that are to remain in circulation. In this case, corresponding initial sorting data from a local or customized whitelist.

[0020] The above-described procedures allow for a particularly reliable sorting out of valuable documents that are to be withdrawn from circulation.

[0021] In a further preferred embodiment, one or more properties of the valuable documents are recorded in the at least one valuable document processing device by means of one or more sensors, and corresponding sensor data is generated. The sensor data is transmitted, in particular via an internet service, to the external computing device, in which the valuable documents are checked, in particular with regard to authenticity and / or condition, based on the sensor data to determine whether one or more valuable documents should be withdrawn from circulation and / or should remain in circulation.If the sensor data check of the valuables documents reveals that at least one document is to be withdrawn from circulation, the batch containing this document is identified from the multiple batches based on the allocation data and the sensor data check result. Furthermore, the valuables documents contained in the identified batch are sorted in the at least one valuables processing device according to the check result.

[0022] In this way, the valuable documents are reliably sorted in the at least one valuable document processing device with regard to properties such as authenticity and / or fitness that can be determined using sensor data, thereby avoiding a (time-)consuming evaluation of the sensor data in the at least one valuable document processing device.

[0023] In a further preferred embodiment, the result of the security document inspection based on sensor data includes secondary sorting data, which identifies security documents that are to be withdrawn from circulation and / or remain in circulation. The batch containing the at least one security document to be withdrawn from circulation is preferably identified using the allocation data and the secondary sorting data. The sorting of the security documents in the at least one security document processing device is preferably carried out based on the secondary sorting data. This allows for particularly reliable sorting of security documents to be withdrawn from circulation.

[0024] In a further preferred embodiment, when sorting the valuable documents contained in the identified batch in the at least one valuable document processing device, the initial identification data of the valuable documents are re-acquired, and the valuable documents contained in the identified batch are sorted by comparing the re-acquired initial identification data with the initial or second sorting data. Advantageously, it is sufficient if the at least one valuable document processing device in which the valuable documents contained in the identified batch are sorted can only read the initial identification data, thus eliminating the need for additional sensors and evaluation software.

[0025] In a further preferred embodiment, the method comprises the following additional steps: Determining one or more properties of the valuable documents in the at least one valuable document processing device using one or more sensors, generating corresponding sensor data, and selecting a portion of the initial identification data based on this sensor data, wherein the selected portion of the initial identification data is transmitted to the external computing device. This makes it possible to forego checking a portion of the valuable documents in the external computing device for the occurrence of their identification data in a blacklist or whitelist, for example, if the sensor data indicates that the valuable documents must be discarded anyway, perhaps due to their poor condition.

[0026] In a further preferred embodiment, the determination of the initial identification data of the securities and the sorting of the securities contained in the identified batch are performed in the same securities processing device. If the comparison of the initial identification data with the subsequent identification data necessitates sorting the securities, the securities of the identified batches are fed back into the securities processing device in which the initial identification data were determined at the beginning of the process. For this purpose, a signal can be output at the securities processing device indicating the need to sort the securities contained in the identified batch or initiating the sorting of these securities, such as "Re-insert batch XX for sorting!".Alternatively, a corresponding notification can be issued if the valuable documents contained in a batch no longer need to be sorted, such as "Batch YY OK!", and can be processed in other ways, for example by picking, packing and / or putting them back into circulation.

[0027] In a further preferred embodiment, the initial identification data of the valuable documents is determined in a first valuable document processing device, and the valuable documents contained in the identified batch are sorted in a second valuable document processing device that is different from the first. The acquisition of the initial identification data of the valuable documents and any necessary, in particular re-sorting of the valuable documents depending on the result of the comparison, are preferably carried out in separate process steps that are, in particular, independent of each other in terms of time and / or location.This allows the batches, after the initial identification data has been recorded and the allocation data generated, to be transported to another cash center during further processing. In this other cash center, the sorting data can be provided if necessary, and the sorting takes place. The allocation data is also made available in the other cash center for this purpose.

[0028] In a further preferred embodiment, the predefined second identification data is supplemented with additional second identification data that identifies valuable documents whose examination, particularly regarding authenticity and / or condition, has shown that they should be withdrawn from circulation and / or remain in circulation. Preferably, these valuable documents are checked for authenticity and / or condition using sensor data generated by sensors of the valuable document processing device. Depending on the result of the examination, the corresponding serial numbers are added as additional second identification data to a whitelist or blacklist stored in the external computing device. This enables simple and reliable updating or expansion of a whitelist or blacklist generated from the predefined second identification data within the framework of the usual processing procedure for valuable documents.

[0029] In a further preferred embodiment, the security documents, or a portion thereof, are only released for circulation again after the initial identification data of the security documents has been determined, and only after comparing the initial identification data with the second identification data, and, if necessary, verifying the security documents using sensor data, has shown that no security document is contained within the security documents that should be withdrawn from circulation. In this case, all security documents contained in the batch can be released back into circulation.Alternatively, the valuables documents, or a portion thereof, will only be released once the sorting of the valuables documents contained in the identified batch has been completed in at least one valuables document processing device. This sorting is based on the result of comparing the first identification data with the second identification data and, if applicable, on the result of the verification of the valuables documents using sensor data. In this case, only those valuables documents contained in the batch that were not rejected during the sorting process, e.g., due to suspected forgery or involvement in a crime, can be returned to circulation. The rejected valuables documents, on the other hand, are subjected to separate handling, e.g., destruction, to prevent them from re-entering circulation.

[0030] In the period between the determination of the initial identification data and the availability of the comparison result, which determines whether or not the batch needs to be sorted, the batch is preferably stored outside the security document processing device, possibly after packaging or bundling, e.g., with a band. Storage is defined as any method of keeping the batches in a location where they cannot be circulated. For example, the security documents are packaged and / or picked in a cash center and / or stored in a safe without being able to leave the cash center. If a batch needs to be sorted according to the comparison result, it is then placed back into the same or a different security document processing device for sorting purposes, possibly after removing the packaging or band.Otherwise, the batch will be released for circulation without needing to be sorted.

[0031] Further advantages, features and applications of the present invention will become apparent from the following description in conjunction with the figures. The figures show: Fig. 1 shows a first example of a securities document processing system; and Fig. 2 shows a second example of a securities document processing system.

[0032] Figure 1 Figure 1 shows a first example of a valuable document processing system 100 with a first valuable document processing device 1, a second valuable document processing device 2, a testing device 15, a control device 16 and an external computing device 3, which is connected to the first and second valuable document processing devices 1, 2, for example via an internet service 4.

[0033] In the present example, several different batches 17 of securities 6 are delivered to a cash center 5, which contains the first and second securities processing devices 1 and 2. In the first securities processing device 1, initial identification data I 1 of the securities 6 contained in each batch 17 is determined for identification purposes. This is done, for example, by processing images of the securities 6 taken with a camera 7 using an optical character recognition (OCR) algorithm and reading or identifying serial numbers printed on the securities 6. Alternatively, the identification data I 1 can also be captured outside of the cash center 5, for example, during a so-called deposit killing, and delivered to the cash center 5 together with the securities 6.

[0034] The initial identification data I 1 are linked to the batches 17, each containing the security documents 6, using allocation data. For example, in addition to the initial identification data of the security documents contained in a batch, the allocation data includes identity and / or location information relating to the identity or location of the batch. The allocation data is stored in a database 13, so that the batch 17 containing a specific security document 6, identifiable, for example, by a serial number, can be determined at any time using the allocation data and, if necessary, located within the cash center 5 using the location information.

[0035] In addition, in the present example, one or more properties of the valuable documents 6 are recorded by means of one or more sensors 8, for example infrared, ultrasonic, magnetic, optical and / or capacitive sensors. The sensors 8 generate corresponding sensor data D, which characterize the relevant properties of the valuable documents 6.

[0036] Based on the sensor data, duplicate or multiple copies of valuable documents 6 can also be detected, output into a corresponding output tray of the valuable document processing device 1 and from there entered back into the device 1 to determine the first identification data I 1 of the valuable documents 6 contained in the duplicate or multiple copies, in order to ensure that the first identification data I 1 of all valuable documents 6 contained in the respective batch 17 are determined.

[0037] The first identification data I 1 are transmitted together with the sensor data D via the internet service 4 to the external computing device 3, while the batches 17 processed in the first security document processing device 1 are taken from a forklift 9, possibly banded and / or picked and temporarily stored, e.g., in a safe 10.

[0038] In the external computing device 3, the first identification data I 1 are compared with predefined second identification data I 2, in particular predefined serial numbers, and the valuable documents 6 are checked for authenticity and / or condition (so-called fitness) on the basis of the determined sensor data D.

[0039] The second identification data I 2 are stored in a database 11 on the external computing device 3 and form a so-called whitelist, which can be used to identify securities 6 that are in circulation or intended for circulation. Alternatively, the second identification data I 2 form a so-called blacklist, which can be used to identify securities 6 that are to be removed from circulation. It may be possible to supplement the predefined second identification data I 2 in the database 11, particularly if it is a blacklist, with identification data of securities 6 that are classified as counterfeit based on the sensor data D.

[0040] In the testing device 15, the comparison of the first identification data I1 with the second identification data I2, performed in the external computing device 3, and, if necessary, also the verification of the security documents 6 based on the sensor data D, is used to check whether at least one security document 6 is present that should be withdrawn from circulation. If this check shows that all security documents 6 temporarily stored in the safe 10 can be returned to circulation, the batches 17 may leave the cash center 5, in particular without prior sorting (arrow 18a). However, if the check shows that the batches 17 temporarily stored in the safe 10 contain one or more security documents 6 that should be withdrawn from circulation, for example, because they were involved in a crime, are counterfeit, and / or are in poor condition (unfit), the control device 16 identifies those batches in which these security documents are contained.The identified batches are removed from safe 10 and fed to the second security document processing device 2 for appropriate sorting (arrow 18b).

[0041] In the present example, by comparing the first with the second identification data I1 and I2, the first sorting data S1 is determined, which contains the identification data of valuable documents 6 that are to remain in circulation or be removed from circulation. Similarly, based on the sensor data D, second sorting data S2 can be determined, which contains the identification data of those valuable documents 6 whose authenticity or condition has been classified as satisfactory or unsatisfactory.

[0042] The first and second sorting data S1 and S2 are transmitted, preferably together or simultaneously, from the external computing device 3 to the second processing device 2 via the internet service 4. As soon as the first and second sorting data S1 and S2 are available in the cash center 5, the identified batches 17 can be removed from the safe 10 and fed to the second security document processing device 2 for sorting. The time between the processing of the security documents 6 in the first security document processing device 1 and the sorting of the security documents 6 in the second security document processing device 2 can be several minutes or even hours.

[0043] To enable the sorting of the valuable documents 6 contained in the identified batches 17 based on the first and second sorting data S1, S2, the second valuable document processing device 2 is configured to re-capture the first identification data I1 of the corresponding valuable documents 6, for example, by means of a camera 7. By comparing the re-captured first identification data I1 with the transmitted first and second sorting data S1, S2, the second valuable document processing device 2 can sort the valuable documents 6 and, for example, output them into different stackers 12a, 12b, 12c, wherein preferably one stacker 12c contains those valuable documents 6 from the identified batches 17 that are to be withdrawn from circulation. Alternatively, these valuable documents 6 can also be fed directly to a valuable document destruction device (not shown).

[0044] Preferably, the identification data of the valuable documents 6 sorted out in the forklift 12c can be transmitted via the internet service 4 to the external computing device 3, so that the specified second identification data I 2 in the database 11 can be updated accordingly, for example by removing the serial numbers of the destroyed or withdrawn valuable documents 6 from the whitelist. The serial numbers of destroyed valuable documents 6 are preferably not included in a blacklist in order to avoid excessively increasing the size of the blacklist.

[0045] The securities documents 6 issued in the first and second stackers 12a, 12b, however, can leave the Cash Center 5 after sorting and be put back into circulation (white arrow 18c).

[0046] The system described above has the particular advantage that the second identification data I 2, for example in the form of a blacklist or whitelist containing a large number of entries and therefore requiring considerable storage space, is stored and managed centrally and does not need to be located decentrally in the respective securities processing devices 1, 2 or in each cash center 5. This avoids problems arising from insufficient storage and / or computing power in the securities processing devices 1, 2 or the cash center 5. Furthermore, by outsourcing the generally time-consuming comparison or verification process to the external computing device 3, the securities processing devices 1, 2 are only accessed during the recording of the first identification data.Sorting the valuable documents contained in a batch is required, and they are then immediately available again for further batches, thus enabling efficient processing of a series or large number of valuable document batches.

[0047] As an alternative to the above-described example of a security document processing system 100, in which the determination of the first identification data of the security documents 6 and the sorting of the security documents 6 based on the first and, if applicable, second sorting data are carried out in different security document processing devices 1, 2, it is possible to carry out both process steps in only one security document processing device designed accordingly for this purpose, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0048] Figure 2Figure 1 shows a second example of a valuable document processing system 100 with a valuable document processing device 1, a testing device 15, a control device 16 and an external computing device 3, which is connected to the valuable document processing device 1 via an internet service 4.

[0049] In the present example, the security documents 6 delivered to a cash center 5 are first checked in the security document processing device 1 on the basis of the properties of the security documents 6 recorded by means of one or more sensors 8, in particular with regard to value and / or authenticity and / or condition, and are output into various stackers 12a, 12b, 12c according to their properties or the result of the check carried out.

[0050] Furthermore, initial identification data I 1 of the valuable documents 6, for example serial numbers printed on the valuable documents 6, are determined by processing images of the valuable documents 6 taken with a camera 7 using optical character recognition (OCR).

[0051] The batches contained in stackers 12a, 12b, and 12c are removed and processed batch by batch, e.g., banded, bundled, stacked in an ATM cassette, and / or picked, and temporarily stored in Cash Center 5, for example, in a safe 10. The security document processing device 1 is then available again for processing further security documents 6, i.e., determining initial identification data I 1, checking, and issuing them to stackers 12a, 12b, and 12c.

[0052] The initial identification data I 1 of the security documents 6 are linked to the batches dispensed in forklifts 12a, 12b, and 12c using allocation data. For example, in addition to the initial identification data of the security documents contained in each batch, the allocation data includes identity and / or location information for identifying the batch. For example, batch identity information could be as follows: "Forklift 1 / Batch No. 1", "Forklift 1 / Batch No. 2", "Forklift 1 / Batch No. 3", etc., "Forklift 2 / Batch No. 1", "Forklift 2 / Batch No. 2", "Forklift 2 / Batch No. 3", etc., or "Forklift 3 / Batch No. 1", "Forklift 3 / Batch No. 2", "Forklift 3 / Batch No. 3", etc.

[0053] Based on the allocation data stored in a database 13, the batch in which a specific security document 6, identifiable for example by a serial number, is contained can then be determined at any time and, if necessary, located within the cash center 5 using the location information.

[0054] The first identification data I 1 of the security documents 6 are transmitted via the internet service 4 to the external computing device 3 and compared there with predefined second identification data I 2, which are stored in a database 11 of the external computing device 3. As in the Figure 1 In the example shown, the specified second identification data I 2 preferably form a whitelist or blacklist. The preceding statements in connection with Figure 1 The same applies.

[0055] When comparing the first and second identification data in the external computing device 3, corresponding sorting data S 1 is generated, which contains the identification data of the securities to be withdrawn from circulation and is transmitted back to the Cash Center 5 via the Internet service 4.

[0056] The testing device 15 checks, based on the comparison result, in particular on the sorting data S 1, whether the security documents 6 contain at least one security document 6 that must be withdrawn from circulation. If the result of this check is positive, the control device 16 uses the allocation data stored in the database 13 to determine the batch, e.g., "Forklift 2 / Batch No. 3", that contains at least one security document that must be withdrawn from circulation. This batch is then taken from the safe 10 and fed back to the security document processing device 1 and sorted according to the comparison result, in particular on the basis of the sorting data S 1. For this purpose, the initial identification data of the security documents contained in the relevant batch are determined again and compared with the identification data contained in the sorting data S 1.Depending on whether the newly determined initial identification data matches the identification data contained in the sorting data S 1, the corresponding security documents for the batch are output to different stackers, e.g., stacker 12a or 12b. In this example, during this sorting process, the security documents to be removed from circulation are output to stacker 12a, while those intended for recirculation are output to stacker 12b. The former can then, for example, be destroyed, while the latter can leave Cash Center 5 and be reintroduced into circulation.

[0057] In one variant of the above with reference to the Figure 2The described process may stipulate that only the initial identification data of the valuable documents contained in specific or selected batches are transmitted from the valuable document processing device 1 to the external computing device 3 for comparison and linked to the selected batches using allocation data. Accordingly, the sorting data S 1 determined in the external computing device 3 can only contain identification data of valuable documents contained in the selected batches.

[0058] If, for example, during the initial check of the security documents for authenticity and fitness, documents classified as genuine and fit are issued to stackers 12a and 12b, and documents classified as counterfeit and / or unfit are issued to stacker 12c, it is more efficient to transmit only the first identification data of the security documents contained in stackers 12a and 12b to the external computing device 3 for comparison with a whitelist and to generate corresponding allocation data, since a further circulation of the batch contained in stacker 12c is no longer an option anyway.

[0059] Accordingly, the system 100 is configured so that securities whose initial identification data has been transmitted to the external computing device may only leave Cash Center 5 once the comparison result is available and, if re-sorting is required, the batch in question has been sorted based on the sorting data S 1.

[0060] A database 11 of a value document processing system 100 according to Figure 1 or 2 The stored whitelist is preferably created or updated according to the procedure described in more detail below.

[0061] Preferably, securities are provided with secondary identification data, in particular serial numbers, during their production. This secondary identification data is recorded during or after production and stored in database 11. The secondary identification data is preferably linked in database 11 to specific characteristics of the securities or production parameters, for example, by marking them as "not issued" and / or with the production time and / or production location.

[0062] At the time of issuance of the securities, i.e. when the securities are put into circulation, the corresponding identification data in database 11 are then marked as "issued", so that all second identification data with the characteristic "issued" then form the whitelist.

[0063] If circulating valuables are subsequently destroyed in a valuables processing device, the identification data of these valuables can be recorded and transmitted to database 11. Database 11, i.e., the whitelist, is then searched for the corresponding identification data of the destroyed valuables, and these are marked as "destroyed".

[0064] Further characteristics relating to the valuable documents and / or the destruction process can also be recorded and transmitted and linked in database 11 with the second identification data. Such characteristics can include, for example, the time and place of destruction, an identification number of the valuable document processing device, and / or user identification information.

[0065] Alternatively, the second identification data in database 11 can also be updated manually, for example by marking identification data of valuable documents that have not been destroyed by a valuable document processing device as "destroyed".

[0066] This process ensures that an up-to-date whitelist is always available in database 11.

[0067] Further preferred aspects related to the comparison of first and second identification data and the maintenance or updating of the whitelist are described below.

[0068] When comparing the first and second identification data in the external computing device 3, the second identification data I 2 stored in database 11 is preferably searched for the transmitted first identification data I 1. If the second identification data I 2 corresponding to the first identification data I 1 are found, the date and time of the comparison of the first identification data I 1 with the second identification data I 2 can be stored in database 11 and linked to the second identification data I 2.

[0069] If no second identification data I 2 corresponding to the first identification data I 1 is found, or if the second identification data I 2 found is not marked as "emitted," for example, as "not issued" or "destroyed," the corresponding first identification data I 1 is transmitted as first sorting data S 1 to Cash Center 5, for example, to a database or other management system of Cash Center 5 (so-called Vault Management System). The first sorting data S 1 can then be added to a local blacklist in Cash Center 5 and made available to the security document processing devices of Cash Center 5. Preferably, the local blacklist in the Cash Center is updated in this way at regular intervals, for example, every 10 minutes.

[0070] During each subsequent processing of the securities by the securities processing equipment in Cash Center 5, such as sorting by value and / or wear, the initial identification data I 1 of the securities are recorded again and compared with the local blacklist, in particular the initial sorting data S 1. If a match occurs between the initial identification data I 1 and the local blacklist or the initial sorting data S 1, corresponding notifications can be issued to an employee of Cash Center 5, and the affected securities can be placed in a return tray for rejected securities, where they can be removed by the employee and sent for separate processing as suspected counterfeit securities.

Claims

1. A method for processing security documents (6), in particular banknotes, comprising the following steps: - determining first identification data (I(1)), in particular serial numbers, by means of which the security documents (6) contained in several different batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) can be identified, in at least one security document processing device (1), - generating assignment data, on the basis of which the first identification data (I1 ) of the value documents (6) contained in the multiple batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) can be assigned to the respective batch (17; 12a, 12b, 12c), by means of the at least one value document processing device (1), - transmitting the first identification data (I1 ), in particular via an internet service (4), to an external computing device (3), - comparing the transmitted first identification data (I1 ) with predetermined second identification data (I2 ), in particular serial numbers, on the basis of which value documents (6) can be identified that are to be withdrawn from circulation and / or are to remain in circulation, in the external computing device (3) and, - if the comparison has shown that the security documents (6) contain at least one security document that is to be withdrawn from circulation, - Identifying the batch (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) containing the at least one security document to be withdrawn from circulation from among the plurality of batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) on the basis of the association data and a result of the comparison of the first identification data (I1 ) with the second identification data (I2 ) in a control device (16), and characterised by - sorting the security documents (6) contained in the identified batch (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) in the at least one security document processing device (1, 2) depending on the result of comparing the first identification data (I1 ) with the second identification data (I2 ).

2. A method according to claim 1, wherein - the result of comparing the first identification data (I1 ) with the second identification data (I2 ) comprises first sorting data (S1 ) on the basis of which value documents (6) can be identified that are to be withdrawn from circulation and / or are to remain in circulation, - the identification of the batch (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) in which the at least one security document to be withdrawn from circulation is contained is carried out on the basis of the allocation data and the first sorting data (S1 ) and - sorting the security documents (6) of the identified batch in the at least one security document processing device (1, 2) depending on the first sorting data (S1 ).

3. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the following further steps: - Detecting one or more characteristics of the security documents (6) in the at least one security document processing device (1, 2) by means of one or more sensors (8) and generating corresponding sensor data (D), - transmitting the sensor data (D), in particular via an internet service (4), to the external computing device (3), - Checking the security documents (6), in particular with regard to authenticity and / or condition, on the basis of the sensor data (D) in the external computing device (3) to determine whether one or more security documents (6) should be withdrawn from circulation and / or remain in circulation, and, - if the checking of the security documents (6) on the basis of the sensor data (D) has revealed that the security documents (6) contain at least one security document that is to be withdrawn from circulation, - identifying the batch (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) containing the at least one security document to be withdrawn from circulation from the plurality of batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) on the basis of the allocation data and a result of the examination of the security documents (6) based on the sensor data (D), and - sorting the security documents (6) contained in the identified batch (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) in the at least one security document processing device (1, 2) depending on the result of the inspection.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein - the result of the examination of the security documents (6) on the basis of the sensor data (D) comprises second sorting data (S2 ) on the basis of which security documents (6) can be identified that are to be withdrawn from circulation and / or are to remain in circulation, - the identification of the batch (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) in which the at least one security document to be withdrawn from circulation is contained is carried out on the basis of the allocation data and the second sorting data (S2 ) and - the value documents (6) are sorted in the at least one value document processing device (1, 2) depending on the second sorting data (S2 ).

5. A method according to claim 2 and / or 4, wherein, when sorting the security documents (6) contained in the identified batch (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) in the at least one security document processing device (1, 2), the first identification data (I1 ) of the security documents (6) are recorded again and the security documents (6) contained in the identified batch (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) are sorted on the basis of a comparison of the first identification data (I1 ) recorded again with the first sorting data (S1 ) or second sorting data (S2 ).

6. A method according to one of claims 1 or 2, comprising the following further steps: - determining one or more properties of the security documents (6) in the at least one security document processing device (1, 2) by means of one or more sensors (8) and generating corresponding sensor data (D), and - selecting a portion of the first identification data (I1 ) on the basis of the sensor data (D), wherein the selected portion of the first identification data (I1 ) is transmitted to the external computing device (3).

7. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the determination of the first identification data (I1) of the security documents (6) and the sorting of the security documents (6) contained in the identified batch (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) are carried out in the same security document processing device (1).

8. A method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the determination of the first identification data (I1) of the security documents (6) takes place in a first security document processing device (1) and the sorting of the security documents (6) contained in the identified batch (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) takes place in a second security document processing device (2) different from the first security document processing device (1).

9. A method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the predetermined second identification data (I2 ) is supplemented by further second identification data which identifies security documents (6) whose examination, in particular with regard to authenticity and / or condition, has shown that they are to be withdrawn from circulation and / or remain in circulation.

10. A method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the security documents (6) or a portion of the security documents (6), after the first identification data (I1 ) of the security documents (6) has been determined, are only released back into circulation again when - the comparison of the first identification data (I1 ) with the second identification data (I2 ) and, where applicable, the examination of the security documents (6) on the basis of the sensor data (D) has shown that the security documents (6) do not contain any security document that is to be withdrawn from circulation, or - the sorting of the value documents (6) contained in the identified batch (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) in the at least one value document processing device (1, 2) has been carried out depending on the result of comparing the first identification data (I1 ) with the second identification data (I2 ) and, where applicable, the result of the inspection of the security documents (6) on the basis of the sensor data (D).

11. A security document processing system (100) for processing security documents (6), in particular banknotes, comprising - at least one security document processing device (1, 2) which is designed to identify first identification data (I1 ), in particular serial numbers, on the basis of which the security documents (6) contained in several different batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) can be identified, to generate allocation data, on the basis of which the first identification data (I1 ), in particular via an internet service (4), to an external computing device (3), generating assignment data on the basis of which the first identification data (I1 ) of the value documents (6) contained in the various batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) can be assigned to the respective batch (17; 12a, 12b, 12c), and to store the assignment data in a database (13), - an external computing device (3) which is configured to compare the transmitted first identification data (I1 ) with predetermined second identification data (I2 ), in particular serial numbers, on the basis of which value documents (6) can be identified that are to be withdrawn from circulation and / or are to remain in circulation, - a checking device configured to check whether the comparison has revealed that the set of security documents (6) contains at least one security document that is to be withdrawn from circulation, and - a control device (16) configured to identify the batch (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) containing the at least one security document (6) to be withdrawn from circulation from the multiple batches (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) on the basis of the allocation data stored in the database (13) and a result of comparing the first identification data (I1 ) with the second identification data (I2 ), if the comparison has shown that the security documents (6) contain at least one security document (6) that is to be withdrawn from circulation, characterised in that the at least one security document processing device (1, 2) is further adapted to sort the security documents (6) contained in the identified batch (17; 12a, 12b, 12c) depending on the result of comparing the first identification data (I1 ) with the second identification data (I2 ).