Variable transport assembly and input and output device for a device for handling vouchers

Abstract

A variable transport arrangement (200) for transporting security notes (13) to a security note stacking unit (206) of a device (100) for handling security notes comprises at least two transport path units (202, 204) which together form a transport path (208) for transporting the security notes (13). The transport path (208) extends from an inlet area (214) to a transfer area (218), and the security notes (13) can be transferred to the security note stacking unit (206) in the transfer area (218). The at least two transport path units (202, 204) are arranged to be movable relative to each other. Furthermore, at least one of the transport path units (202, 204) is movable between a first operating position and a second operating position, and the transfer area (218) is movable accordingly. Further aspects include an input and output tray (600), a corresponding device (100), and a control method.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a flexible transport arrangement for transporting vouchers and an input and output device with a movable voucher stacking unit.

[0002] Devices for handling banknotes, especially recycling ATMs, can have various functions and can be used, for example, for depositing and dispensing banknotes. The banknotes are processed using various functional units. For instance, sensors can identify or verify the banknotes after they are deposited. Furthermore, the banknotes can be (temporarily) stored in memory units. Similarly, when dispensing, the banknotes can be separated, checked (for example, to ensure the correct number or face value), and presented for payment.

[0003] The banknotes are transported within the device along transport routes, thus connecting the various functional units. To ensure the secure transport of the banknotes between the functional units, it is particularly necessary that the banknotes are transferred to the functional units securely and efficiently.

[0004] The object of the invention is to provide an arrangement for a device for handling securities, which enables the safe and efficient transfer of securities.

[0005] This problem is solved by a transport arrangement with the features of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0006] A variable transport arrangement for transporting banknotes to a banknote stacking unit of a banknote handling device comprises at least two transport path units, which together form a transport path for transporting the banknotes. The transport path extends from an infeed area to a transfer area, and the banknotes can be transferred to the banknote stacking unit in the transfer area. Using the banknote stacking unit, banknotes can, for example, be stacked on top of each other.Each transport path unit comprises a first transport path boundary element and a second transport path boundary element, which are arranged and spaced relative to each other such that a transport path segment is formed between the transport path boundary elements, and that banknotes can be transported along the transport path between the infeed and outfeed areas between the transport path boundary elements of each transport path unit. The at least two transport path units are arranged to be movable relative to each other. Furthermore, at least one of the transport path units, or the first of the transport path units, is movable at least between a first operating position and a second operating position, and the outfeed area is movable accordingly, in particular, the outfeed area moves along with it.

[0007] The movement of at least one of the transport path units between the operating positions and the corresponding movement of the transfer area enables flexible connection of the transport path of the transport arrangement to other voucher processing units, such as a voucher stacking unit. This is particularly relevant if the other unit is regularly located in different positions within the operation, and the distance to a voucher-carrying transport path cannot easily be bridged by a voucher being transported. In this way, the transport path of the transport arrangement can be variably adapted, ensuring the secure transport and processing of vouchers.

[0008] The movement of at least one of the transport units between the operating positions occurs primarily relative to the entry area. The transfer area follows the movement of at least one of the transport units accordingly. Thus, at least one of the transport units, and consequently the transfer area, is positioned at different distances from the entry area in the first and second operating positions. In particular, the distance of the transfer area from the entry area is variable. Furthermore, the position of the transfer area during the movement between the first and second operating positions does not describe a circular arc around the entry area.

[0009] The at least two transport units can be moved relative to each other, thus allowing the distance between the transfer area and the infeed area to be variable. For example, the transport section of one of the transport units ends at one end at the transfer area, so that vouchers can be transferred from the transport section in the transfer area to the voucher stacking unit. A second end of the transport section of one of the transport units ends at the other of the at least two transport units, so that vouchers can be transferred from the first transport unit to the second transport unit. The second transport unit can then, for example, end in the infeed area with an end of the transport section of the second transport unit facing away from the first. The infeed area, or rather the end of the second transport unit facing away from the first, must be fixed.

[0010] Optionally, the transport arrangement can include additional transport path units that form further sections of the transport path. This allows the banknotes to be safely transported from the infeed area along the transport path to the transfer area using these transport path units, especially when the distance between the infeed and transfer areas varies.

[0011] Preferably, the transport arrangement comprises two transport path units.

[0012] The individual transport path units can be displaceable or tiltable relative to each other, particularly along the transport path. Furthermore, adjacent transport path units can overlap at least partially or in at least one of their operating positions along the transport path.

[0013] The transport route is continuous between the infeed and outfeed areas, using transport route units. Furthermore, the vouchers can be transported continuously along this route between the infeed and outfeed areas, regardless of their location within the system. A transport direction is specifically defined, from the infeed to the outfeed.

[0014] The infeed area defines, in particular, an area where banknotes can enter or be transferred from the handling device into the transport path of the transport arrangement. For example, another transport path of the device can connect to the transport path of the transport arrangement in the infeed area.

[0015] The transfer area defines in particular an area in which vouchers can exit the transport path of the transport arrangement and be transferred to other units of the device for handling vouchers, for example the voucher stacking unit.

[0016] In this way, the infeed area and the transfer area can each define interfaces to other units of the device for handling vouchers.

[0017] The securities, for example banknotes, are preferably transported individually along the transport route; that is, preferably individual securities are transported one after the other.

[0018] Preferably, a variable transport arrangement comprises the note stacking unit, wherein the note stacking unit is arranged at the transfer point such that notes from the transport path can be picked up at the transfer point by means of the note stacking unit and stacked with it. This enables a secure transfer of the notes to the note stacking unit and efficient stacking of the notes.

[0019] In particular, the note stacking unit moves in sync with one of the transport path units. For example, the note stacking unit is rigidly connected to the transport arrangement, specifically to one of the transport path units that is movable between the first and second operating positions. Thus, the note stacking unit is also movable between the first and second operating positions. The note stacking unit also moves along with the transfer area.

[0020] Preferably, the banknote stacking unit comprises at least one (rotatable) wheel with pockets around its circumference, each of which can at least partially hold one of the banknotes. This enables the secure transfer of the banknotes from the transport path at the handover point. For example, the wheel can be a so-called stacker wheel.

[0021] Preferably, the transport arrangement includes at least one drive element for transporting the banknotes along the transport path. This allows the banknotes to be transported in a controlled manner along the transport path. The drive element comprises, or is, for example, a driven circulating or endless conveyor belt. In this way, the banknotes can be transported along the transport path due to static friction between the conveyor belt and the banknotes.

[0022] Preferably, the at least one drive element is one of the transport path limiting elements; in particular, one of the transport path limiting elements comprises the at least one drive element. This allows for a simple design of the transport arrangement.

[0023] Preferably, each of the transport path units comprises at least two drive elements for transporting the banknotes along the transport path. In particular, the two drive elements of each transport path unit are arranged opposite each other, so that the banknotes can be transported safely between the drive elements of a transport path unit. For example, the drive elements are driven conveyor belts, each running in the transport direction.

[0024] In one embodiment, the transport arrangement comprises eight conveyor belts, with each pair of conveyor belts forming or encompassing a transport path limiting element. For example, a first transport path limiting element of the first transport path unit comprises or is comprised of two parallel conveyor belts. Similarly, a second transport path limiting element of the first transport path unit comprises or is comprised of two parallel conveyor belts. The parallel conveyor belts of each transport path unit are arranged such that they face each other with respect to the transport path section, and the transport path section, in which the banknotes can be transported by means of the conveyor belts, is formed between the conveyor belts.

[0025] Furthermore, the transport path limiting elements may optionally include additional guiding or conveying elements, such as transport rollers, which may be at least partially arranged in the transport path.

[0026] Preferably, one of the transport path units, in particular the second transport path unit, is rotatably or pivotably mounted about a pivot axis in the inlet area. This allows for flexible movement of the transport path units and a flexible selection of the first and second operating positions. In particular, the transport path unit can be mounted such that the transport path is movable or articulated perpendicular to the transport direction, in particular to a plane of the transport path.

[0027] Preferably, the transport path units are movable relative to each other along the transport path. This enables a compact and space-saving design. Furthermore, this allows the length of the transport path of the transport arrangement to be varied. For example, the transport path units can be slid into one another. In this way, the transport path units, especially those adjacent in the transport direction, can be extended linearly.

[0028] Preferably, the transport arrangement comprises a traversing unit configured to move at least one of the transport path units between the first operating position and the second operating position. This enables precise and reliable positioning of the transport path unit. In particular, one of the transport path units can thus be moved between the first operating position and the second operating position.

[0029] In a further aspect, an input and output device for a securities handling system is specified. The input and output device is specifically designed for the input and output of securities to or from a person who wishes to deposit or withdraw securities to the device. The input and output device comprises an input and output compartment and a dispensing unit for dispensing securities from the input and output compartment. Furthermore, the input and output device includes a securities stacking unit for stacking securities in the input and output compartment. The securities stacking unit is movable at least between a first operating position and a second operating position, and in particular, movable relative to the dispensing unit.

[0030] The input and output compartment may, in particular, include a lockable opening to allow persons wishing to make a deposit or withdrawal to insert or remove deposited or withdrawn vouchers from the compartment.

[0031] The dispensing unit enables, in particular, the removal and / or singulation of banknotes from a stack of banknotes arranged in the input and output tray. For this purpose, the dispensing unit can, for example, include at least one dispensing roller that is in contact with the stack of banknotes arranged in the input and output tray and can feed the banknotes (individually) via a transport path to the banknote handling device.

[0032] The banknote stacking unit enables the stacking of banknotes into the banknote stack in the input / output tray. For this purpose, the banknote stacking unit can include at least one (rotating) wheel with pockets around its circumference, each of which can at least partially hold one of the banknotes. The banknotes can be picked up from a transport mechanism, placed into one of the pockets, and then, after the wheel is rotated, deposited onto the banknote stack. For example, the wheel could be a so-called stacking wheel.

[0033] The input and output device allows for the insertion of vouchers into the compartment in the form of a stack and the subsequent removal of individual vouchers from the stack. The individual vouchers can then be transferred to the voucher handling device for further processing. Furthermore, vouchers can be dispensed from the same compartment in the form of a stack.

[0034] In particular, the input and output device is configured such that a stack of banknotes is or is arranged in the input and output compartment between the banknote stacking unit and the dispensing unit. For example, the stack of banknotes is or is arranged such that the banknotes in the stack are oriented with either their back or front facing the banknote stacking unit or the dispensing unit.

[0035] The input and output device enables the processing of deposited and withdrawn vouchers. In particular, the movable voucher stacking unit allows for the secure stacking of vouchers in the input and output tray. For example, it is possible to securely remove vouchers from a single stack of vouchers in the input and output tray and add more by stacking them. This can be done either sequentially or simultaneously.

[0036] This is made possible in particular by the movable note stacking unit. The operating position of the note stacking unit can be selected based on the number of notes in a note stack within the input / output tray, for example, during a deposit transaction, so that the unit is positioned particularly close to the stack. By withdrawing notes using the withdrawal unit, the stack can be reduced in size, and the operating position of the note stacking unit can be adjusted to the changed size, especially the height, of the stack. The note stacking unit can thus be moved so that the distance between it and the stack remains constant. Notes can therefore also be placed particularly close to one end of the stack.

[0037] Furthermore, the movable banknote stacking unit allows for the secure addition of banknotes to the same stack in the input / output tray from which banknotes have already been withdrawn. For example, banknotes that were not recognized, particularly by the banknote handling device, or that were identified as foreign currency or counterfeit, can be returned to the same stack in the input / output tray. There, the added banknotes can either be withdrawn again and re-identified using the handling device, or returned to the depositor by opening the input / output tray. This eliminates the need for a separate output tray, thus enabling a particularly compact design.

[0038] The movement of the security note stacking unit to different operating positions enables a safe and efficient transfer of security notes from the security note stacking unit to the security note stack in the input and output tray.

[0039] Preferably, the input and output device comprises the variable transport arrangement, wherein the note stacking unit of the variable transport arrangement is the note stacking unit of the input and output device. This enables the safe and efficient transport and transfer of notes to the note stacking unit. Furthermore, the note stacking unit can be movable together with one of the transport path units; in particular, the note stacking unit can be connected to one of the transport path units.

[0040] Preferably, the note stacking unit is arranged at a first distance from the dispensing unit in the first operating position and at a second distance from the dispensing unit in the second operating position, the first distance being greater than the second distance. This allows for efficient movement of the note stacking unit as the height of the note stack changes.

[0041] Preferably, the note stacking unit is arranged, at least in the second operating position, such that it exerts a pressure force on the dispensing unit. In particular, a stack of notes can be arranged between the note stacking unit and the dispensing unit. This allows the note stacking unit to indirectly exert a pressure force on the dispensing unit via the stack of notes, for example, by pressing the stack of notes against the dispensing unit. This enables the reliable dispensing of notes from the stack of notes using the dispensing unit.

[0042] Furthermore, at least one wheel of the banknote stacking unit can be designed to apply pressure evenly to the stack of banknotes. This ensures that the stack is pressed evenly against the dispensing unit and that banknotes are reliably dispensed.

[0043] Furthermore, at least one wheel, in particular an outwardly facing circumferential surface of the wheel, of the banknote stacking unit can be designed to have low friction with the banknotes. This allows the wheel to rotate over the banknote stack while simultaneously pressing the banknote stack against the release unit.

[0044] In another aspect, a device for handling banknotes is specified. This device comprises the variable transport arrangement and / or the input and output unit. For example, the device may include additional transport paths so that banknotes dispensed by the dispensing unit can be fed to the transport arrangement's transport path and thus stacked again in the input and output tray by the banknote stacking unit. Alternatively, the input and output unit may include these additional transport paths. Furthermore, the device for handling banknotes or the input and output unit may include units for identifying or verifying banknotes arranged along these additional transport paths. These units may, for example, include optical or electronic sensors capable of determining characteristics of the transported banknotes.

[0045] Preferably, the device for handling banknotes comprises only a single input and output device, in particular only a single input and output compartment. The input and output device enables the secure input and output of banknotes using this single input and output compartment. This allows for a particularly compact design of the device.

[0046] Another aspect concerns a procedure for controlling the input and output device, comprising the following steps: moving the security note stacking unit towards the pull unit, in particular to exert a pressure on the pull unit; pulling security notes from a security note stack in the input and output tray; and stacking security notes in the input and output tray using the security note stacking unit.

[0047] The process enables the secure stacking of vouchers in the input / output tray and the secure removal of vouchers from the same stack. In particular, the removal and stacking steps can be performed simultaneously.

[0048] The step of moving the security note stacking unit can at least include moving the security note stacking unit from the first operating position to the second operating position. Furthermore, the process can also move the variable transport arrangement in the step of moving the security note stacking unit, in particular simultaneously with the security note stacking unit.

[0049] For example, the note stacking unit may be extended from the input / output tray in its first operating position, allowing a person wishing to deposit notes to place them into the open input / output tray. Particularly after the input / output tray is closed, the note stacking unit can be moved towards the take-off unit, so that the notes forming a stack and positioned between the stacking unit and the take-off unit are pressed against the take-off unit by the stacking unit. The notes can then be removed from the stack, particularly individually, by the take-off unit and, for example, conveyed to a note handling device for further processing via transport channels.For example, the device for handling securities can be used to check the securities and, among other things, to determine their face value.

[0050] However, it is possible that individual vouchers cannot be identified as such, or that their respective face value cannot be determined. In this case, these unidentified vouchers can be reintroduced to the input / output tray using the voucher stacking unit and / or the variable transport arrangement and stacked in the input / output tray. Alternatively, the vouchers can be stored in the handling device. For example, the voucher handling device may include suitable sensors, transport paths, and voucher storage.

[0051] The method can also include steps for controlling the device for handling banknotes. For example, the method can include detecting banknote characteristics using optical or electronic sensors. Furthermore, the method can include controlling transport routes so that banknotes are either stored in the device for handling banknotes or returned to the input / output tray. This can be carried out, in particular, depending on the detected characteristics of the banknotes.

[0052] The feeding and stacking of unidentified vouchers can be performed simultaneously with the peeling of the vouchers. During peeling and any simultaneous stacking, the voucher stacking unit and / or the variable transport arrangement can be moved to different operating positions, in particular so that a continuous pressure is exerted on the voucher stack against the peeling unit. Changes in the height of the voucher stack due to a changing number of vouchers in the stack can thus be compensated for or taken into account. Specifically, the variable transport arrangement and / or the input and output device can include a sensor that can determine the pressure. The operating position can then be selected or controlled to exert a constant pressure in the direction of the peeling unit.

[0053] Unidentified banknotes transported back into the input / output tray can then either be withdrawn again and attempts can be made to identify the banknotes' characteristics again, or the unidentified banknotes can be returned to the depositing person in the input / output tray.

[0054] The procedure thus enables efficient return, especially of unidentified vouchers, without the need to temporarily store vouchers or to first remove all vouchers from the input and output tray before further vouchers can be stacked in the input and output tray.

[0055] The input and output device and the device for handling vouchers may each include a control unit configured to control the input and output device or the device for handling vouchers, for example according to the described method.

[0056] The input and output device and the device for handling banknotes can be further developed with features of the variable transport arrangement, in particular with the features of the dependent claims directed to the variable transport arrangement.

[0057] Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, which, in conjunction with the accompanying figures, will explain exemplary embodiments in more detail.

[0058] They show: Fig. 1 a schematic side view of a device for handling banknotes, Fig. 2 a schematic side view of a variable transport arrangement in an operating position, Fig. 3 a schematic top view of the variable transport arrangement according to Fig. 2 Fig. 4 shows a schematic side view of the variable transport arrangement in another operating position, Fig. 5 shows a schematic top view of the variable transport arrangement after Fig. 4 , Fig. 6 a schematic side view of an input and output device in an operating position with the variable transport arrangement, and Fig. 7 a schematic side view of the input and output device in another operating position.

[0059] Figure 1Figure 100 shows a schematic side view of a device 100 for handling banknotes. The device 100 serves both for the deposit of banknotes by an operator and for the dispensing of banknotes to an operator and is also referred to as a recycling ATM. Alternatively, the device 100 can also serve exclusively for the dispensing of banknotes or the depositing of banknotes. Furthermore, the device 100 can be an automatic cash register system, a self-checkout terminal, or a so-called automatic safe terminal.

[0060] The device 100 comprises a safe 10 in which four cash boxes 12a to 12d are arranged and which protects the cash boxes 12a to 12d from unauthorized access, in particular from theft and manipulation attempts. The safe 10 has a safe door 34 which can be opened and closed by means of a locking unit 36. The cash boxes 12a to 12d are each arranged in a receiving compartment 32a to 32d in the safe 10. In the exemplary embodiment, the cash boxes 12a to 12d are arranged according to Figure 1 horizontally arranged in the device 100. In other devices for handling banknotes, the cash boxes 12a to 12d can alternatively be arranged vertically.

[0061] Cash boxes 12a to 12d can be removed from the device 100 and serve for the storage and transport of valuables, in particular banknotes and / or checks. The valuables are stored in cash boxes 12a to 12d in the form of a stack. One of these stacks is indicated, for example, in the first cash box 12a. One of the valuables in this stack is, for example, designated with the reference number 13. In the Figure 1 In the operating position of the cash boxes 12a to 12d shown, the banknotes 13 are arranged standing upright in the cash boxes 12a to 12d on one of their edges, preferably on one of their longitudinal edges.

[0062] Each cash box 12a to 12d has an opening for adding and removing banknotes 13. In front of the opening of each cash box 12a to 12d, a singulation and stacking unit 14a to 14d is arranged, with the aid of which, on the one hand, banknotes 13 can be added to the cash boxes 12a to 12d and, on the other hand, banknotes 13 stored in the cash boxes 12a to 12d can be separated from the stacks of banknotes held in the cash boxes 12a to 12d and removed from the cash box 12a to 12d. In front of each singulation and stacking unit 14a to 14d, a switch 16a to 16d is arranged, with the help of which a security note 13 to be supplied to the cash boxes 12a to 12d is diverted from a transport route or transport path 18 and supplied to the singulation and stacking unit 14a to 14d which is arranged in front of the cash box 12a to 12d into which the security note 13 is to be transported.

[0063] Likewise, switches 16a to 16d serve to transport banknotes 13 removed from cash boxes 12a to 12d to transport path 18. The safe 10 also has an opening 20 through which banknotes 13 transported along transport path 18 can be transported into or out of the safe 10.

[0064] Furthermore, the device 100 includes an input and output unit comprising an input and output compartment 22, through which a person operating the device 100 can input and dispense vouchers 13. In a pure dispensing ATM, the input and output compartment 22 is used solely for dispensing vouchers 13; in a pure depositing ATM, the input and output compartment 22 is used solely for depositing vouchers 13.

[0065] The vouchers 13 deposited via the input / output tray 22 are individually fed along a transport path 24 to a reading unit 26, which can be used to determine, for example, the authenticity, face value, and / or serial number of each deposited voucher 13. Furthermore, deposited and / or withdrawn vouchers 13 can be temporarily stored in an intermediate storage unit 30. In particular, the intermediate storage unit 30 can temporarily store vouchers 13 that are unsuitable for withdrawal and / or vouchers 13 that have been identified as counterfeit by the reading unit 26, or vouchers 13 that have not been removed by an operator.

[0066] The banknotes (13) can be transported along transport paths 18 and 24 using transport units. In particular, banknotes already in circulation can be transported along transport paths 18 and 24 using these transport units in recycling ATMs.

[0067] In particular, the device 100 can be configured to transport banknotes 13 from the input / output tray 22 along the transport path 24 to the reading unit 24 and back to the input / output tray 22. For this purpose, the device 100 can also include further switches and / or transport paths to transport the banknotes back to the input / output tray 22.

[0068] Figures 2 to 5 The figures show schematic views of a variable transport arrangement 200. The variable transport arrangement 200 comprises at least a first transport path unit 202, a second transport path unit 204, and a note stacking unit 206, which is shown in the figures as a stacker wheel.

[0069] Figure 2 Figure 1 shows a schematic side view of the variable transport arrangement 200 in a first operating position. In the first operating position, the two transport path units 202 and 204 are pushed together. Each of the transport path units 202 and 204 comprises four conveyor belts, between which a continuous transport path 208 is formed. The banknotes 13, in particular individually, can be transported along the transport path 208.

[0070] In particular, the first transport unit 202 comprises two upper conveyor belts 210a, 210b and two lower conveyor belts 210c, 210d, which in the side view are arranged according to Fig. 2 They are arranged one behind the other. A first transport path section of transport path 208 is formed between the upper conveyor belts 210a, 210b and the lower conveyor belts 210c, 210d.

[0071] Accordingly, the second transport unit 204 can comprise two upper conveyor belts 212a, 212b and two lower conveyor belts 212c, 212d. A second transport section of the transport route 208 is formed between the upper conveyor belts 212a, 212b and the lower conveyor belts 212c, 212d. Thus, banknotes 13 can be transported along both the first and the second transport section.

[0072] The conveyor belts 210a to 210d, 212a to 212d can be continuous endless belts which can be moved along the transport path 208, in particular along one transport direction of the transport path 208, by means of two deflection rollers each.

[0073] For example, the conveyor belts can be driven by means of the deflection rollers and the banknotes 13 can be moved and thus transported between the upper conveyor belts 210a, 210b, 212a, 212b and the lower conveyor belts 210c, 210d, 212c, 212d using the conveyor belts 210a to 210d, 212a to 212d.

[0074] In particular, the vouchers 13 can be transferred from a previous transport path 216 to transport path 208 in an infeed area 214 and transported along transport path 208. Transport path 208 then ends in a transfer area 218, where the vouchers 13 transported along transport path 208 can be transferred to the voucher stacking unit 206. Arrows P1 and P2 indicate the transport direction in which the vouchers 13 can be transported. The circulating conveyor belts 210a to 210d and 212a to 212d therefore each run with their section facing transport path 208 in the direction of transport.

[0075] The note stacking unit 206 comprises, in particular, at least one wheel 220 which has several pockets 222 around its circumference. The pockets 222 are designed to receive note certificates 13, which have been transported from the infeed area 214 to the transfer area 218 by means of the transport units 202, 204. In the transfer area 218, the note certificates 13 can be inserted into one of the pockets 222 and, by rotating the wheel 220 about a pivot axis 223, transported along the circumference of the wheel 220 and deposited onto a note stack.

[0076] The wheel 220 is rigidly connected to the first transport path unit 202, so that the first transport path unit 202, the transfer area 218 and the wheel 220 cannot move relative to each other and are rigidly arranged relative to each other.

[0077] The variable transport arrangement 200 can further comprise a traversing unit designed and configured to move at least the first transport path unit 202 into different operating positions. For example, the traversing unit comprises a rack 224 along which at least the first transport path unit 202 can be moved into different operating positions. This is particularly relevant in connection with Figures 4 and 5 further explained.

[0078] The second transport unit 204 can be rotatably mounted about a pivot axis. For example, the second transport unit 204 can be rotatably mounted on bearings 226a, 226b, so that when the first transport unit 202 moves along the rack 224, the second transport unit 204 can buckle in the direction of movement.

[0079] Figure 3Figure 1 shows a schematic top view of the variable transport arrangement 200 in its first operating position. The transport unit can include a gear 300 in addition to the rack 224, which engages with the rack 224. The transport unit can also include a drive mechanism that drives the gear 300, so that at least the first transport path unit 202 can be moved along the rack 224. Since the gear 220 is connected to the first transport path unit 202, the gear is moved accordingly when the first transport path unit 202 is moved.

[0080] Figure 4 shows a schematic side view of the variable transport arrangement 200 in a second operating position. Figure 5 A corresponding schematic top view of the variable transport arrangement 200 in the second operating position is shown. In comparison to the first operating position (see...). Fig. 2 and 3The first transport unit 202 and the wheel 220 are moved in the second operating position along the rack 224. Furthermore, the transfer area 218 is moved accordingly in the second operating position.

[0081] The movement, particularly of the first transport unit 202, enables the connection of various note-processing units of the device 100, thus allowing the transfer of notes between the units even if their position changes during operation. This flexible connection also ensures the secure transport of the notes.

[0082] When the first transport unit 202 is moved, the second transport unit 204 remains stationary; only rotation of the second transport unit 204 around the bearings 226a, 226b is possible. The first and second transport units 202, 204 can move relative to each other, particularly linearly, so that the respective conveyor belts 210a to 210d, 212a to 212d can also move linearly relative to each other, and the transport path 208 has different lengths depending on the operating position. The transport path 208 extends between the infeed area 214 and the transfer area 218 preferably in one plane.

[0083] In particular, the first transport unit 202 comprises a first frame 500, and the second transport unit 204 comprises a second frame 502. The deflection rollers of the respective conveyor belts 210a to 210d and 212a to 212d are rotatably mounted on the frames 500 and 502. The conveyor belts 210a to 210d and 212a to 212d of the respective transport units 202 and 204 can be arranged on the frames 500 and 502 offset in one direction perpendicular to the direction of transport, so that the conveyor belts are arranged parallel and side by side in the direction of transport. This allows the transport units 202 and 204 to move relative to each other without the conveyor belts 210a to 210d and 212a to 212d colliding, especially in the first operating position.

[0084] Preferably the frames 500, 502 are mounted relative to each other or within each other, so that frames 500, 502 can be moved relative to each other along the plane of the transport path 208.

[0085] Figure 6and 7 Figure 2 shows views of an input and output device 600 in various operating positions. The input and output device 600 comprises the variable transport arrangement 200, in particular the first and second transport path units 202, 204 and the cash stacking unit 206.

[0086] In an alternative embodiment, the input and output device 600 comprises only the note stacking unit 206 without the first and second transport path units 202, 204.

[0087] The input and output device 600 further comprises an input and output compartment 602, which is designed to hold several banknotes 13 in the form of a stack of banknotes. The input and output compartment 602 includes a lockable opening through which an operator has external access to the input and output compartment 602, for example, during a deposit or withdrawal transaction. The opening can be closed by means of a lock 604. Figure 6 and7 The input / output tray 602 is shown in a closed state.

[0088] Furthermore, the input and output device 600 includes a dispensing unit with which the vouchers 13 can be individually dispensed from the stack of vouchers arranged in the input and output compartment and fed to a transport path 608. The dispensing unit includes at least one dispensing roller 606.

[0089] With the aid of the take-up roller 606, the security note 13 of the security note stack that is adjacent to the take-up roller 606 can be transported in the direction of the transport path 608. For this purpose, the take-up roller 606 can rotate counterclockwise, in particular by means of a drive unit.

[0090] The input and output device 600 can, for example, be part of the device 100, in particular as the input and output device 22. The transport path 608 can, for example, be one of the transport paths 18, 24 of the device 100 or be connected to it, so that vouchers 13 from the input and output device 600 can be further processed by the device 100. This can, for example, include checking features of the withdrawn vouchers 13 using the reading unit 26 or storing the vouchers 13 in the intermediate storage 30 or in one of the cash boxes 12a to 12d.

[0091] With the aid of the security note stacking unit 206, in particular the wheel 220, security notes 13 can be stacked in the input and output tray 602, in particular fed to the stack of security notes already arranged in the input and output tray. The security notes 13 are fed individually to an end of the stack of security notes that is opposite the end of the stack of security notes adjacent to the extraction unit 606.

[0092] The banknotes 13, which are to be stacked using the banknote stacking unit 206, can be fed to the wheel 220 via the transport path 216 and the transport path 208 of the variable transport arrangement 200 and deposited in the input and output compartment 602 by rotating the wheel 220. The wheel 220 can rotate clockwise. Furthermore, the wheel 220 can be driven by a drive unit.

[0093] The transport path 216 can, for example, be one of the transport paths 18, 24 of the device 100 or connect to them.

[0094] Figure 6 is a schematic side view of the input and output device 600 in a second operating position, in particular the second operating position of the variable transport arrangement 200.

[0095] In the second operating position already described above, the variable transport arrangement 200 is moved and positioned such that the wheel 220 exerts a pressure force on the stack of banknotes arranged in the input and output tray 620 in the direction of the take-off roller 606. This enables the banknotes 13 to be reliably removed from the stack of banknotes.

[0096] Figure 7 is a schematic side view of the input and output device 600 in a first operating position, in particular the first operating position of the variable transport arrangement 200.

[0097] In the first operating position, the two transport path units 202, 204 of the variable transport arrangement 200 are shifted one inside the other, so that the transport path 208 is shorter than in the second operating position. Accordingly, the distance between the note stacking unit 206, in particular the wheel 220, and the take-off unit, in particular the take-off roller 606, is increased compared to the second operating position. This first operating position allows, for example, the operator to easily insert notes, especially stacks, into the input and output tray. As described in Figure 7 As shown, the vouchers 13 can be arranged more loosely in the first operating position. Only the movement into the second operating position presses the vouchers 13 of the voucher stack against the take-off roller 606 to enable the vouchers 13 to be taken off.

[0098] Furthermore, the movement of the note stacking unit 206 into different operating positions and thus the length of the transport path 208 can be lengthened or shortened accordingly, allowing the input and output device 600 to be flexibly adapted to a different number of notes 13 in the input and output compartment.

[0099] For example, the operating position of the note stacking unit 206, and thus its distance to the take-off roller 606, can be selected such that a specific, in particular preset, contact force of the notes 13 against the take-off roller 606 is achieved. As notes 13 are taken, the number of notes 13 in the note stack in the input and output tray 602 decreases, thus reducing the height of the note stack. The input and output device 600, in particular the note stacking unit 206, can be controlled such that the note stacking unit 206 moves towards the take-off roller 606.

[0100] Furthermore, the input and output device 600 enables the stacking of vouchers 13 onto the voucher stack using the voucher stacking unit 206, particularly while vouchers 13 are being withdrawn from the voucher stack. In this case as well, the input and output device 600, and especially the voucher stacking unit 206, can be controlled so that the voucher stacking unit 206 moves towards the take-off roller 606. If a greater number of vouchers 13 are added to the voucher stack than are withdrawn, and the height of the voucher stack increases, the voucher stacking unit 206 can also be moved away from the take-off roller 606.

[0101] The simultaneous removal and stacking of vouchers 13 in the input and output tray 602 is particularly relevant when vouchers 13 that have been checked with the help of the reading unit 26, but which are not identifiable, for example, are to be fed directly back into the input and output tray 602, so that the vouchers 13 can be presented to the depositing operator and returned to them immediately.

[0102] The input and output unit 600, in particular the variable transport arrangement 200, thus enables a particularly secure and flexible transport and subsequent transfer of vouchers 13. Furthermore, the input and output unit 600, in particular the variable transport arrangement 200, enables the secure removal and stacking of vouchers 13 in a single input and output tray, especially the simultaneous removal and stacking of vouchers 13 in a single input and output tray. Reference symbol list

[0103] 10 Safe 12a to 12d Cash box 13 Security note 14a to 14d Stacking / singling unit 16a to 16d Switch 18 Transport path 20 Opening in safe 22 Input / output tray 24 Transport path 26 Reading unit 28 Control unit 32a to 32d Receiving tray 30 Intermediate storage 34 Safe door 36 Locking unit 100 Device for handling security notes 200 Variable transport arrangement 202 First transport path unit 204 Second transport path unit 206 Security note stacking unit 208 Transport path of the transport arrangement 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d Conveyor belts of the first transport path unit 212a, 212b, 212c, 212d Conveyor belts of the second transport path unit 214 Infeed area 216Previous transport route, for example from the device for handling banknotes 218Transfer area 220(Stacker) wheel 222Pockets of the wheel 224Rack 226a,226b Bearing of the second transport unit 300 Gear 500 Frame of the first transport unit 502 Frame of the second transport unit 600 Input and output device 602 Input and output tray 604 Lock of the input and output tray 606 Tick roller 608 Transport path, in particular for the device for handling banknotes,

Claims

1. Variable transport arrangement (200) for transporting security notes (13) to a security note stacking unit (206) of a device (100) for handling security notes, comprising at least two transport path units (202, 204) which together form a transport path (208) for transporting the security notes (13), wherein the transport path (208) extends from an inlet area (214) to a transfer area (218) and the security notes (13) can be transferred to the security note stacking unit (206) in the transfer area (218), wherein each of the transport path units (202, 204) comprises a first transport path limiting element and a second transport path limiting element, which are each arranged and spaced apart from each other,that a transport path section is formed between the transport path limiting elements and that between the transport path limiting elements, vouchers (13) can be transported along the transport path (208) between the infeed area (214) and the transfer area (218), wherein the at least two transport path units (202, 204) are arranged to be movable relative to each other, and wherein at least one of the transport path units (202) is movable at least between a first operating position and a second operating position and the transfer area (218) is movable accordingly.

2. Variable transport arrangement according to claim 1, comprising the security note stacking unit (206), wherein the security note stacking unit (206) is arranged to the transfer area (218) such that security notes (13) from the transport path (208) can be picked up at the transfer area (218) with the help of the security note stacking unit (206) and the security notes (13) can be stacked.

3. Variable transport arrangement according to claim 2, wherein the note stacking unit (206) comprises at least one wheel (220) which has pockets (222) around its circumference in which each of the notes (13) can be at least partially received.

4. Variable transport arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one drive element for transporting the banknotes along the transport path (208).

5. Variable transport arrangement according to claim 4, wherein the at least one drive element is one of the transport path limiting elements.

6. Variable transport arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 4 to 5, wherein each of the transport path units (202, 204) comprises at least two of the drive elements for transporting the banknotes along the transport path (208).

7. Variable transport arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein one of the transport path units (204) is rotatably mounted about a rotational axis in the inlet area (214).

8. Variable transport arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transport path units (202, 204) are movable relative to each other along the transport path (208).

9. Variable transport arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a traversing unit (224, 300) which is configured to traverse at least one of the transport path units (202) between the first operating position and the second operating position.

10. An input and output device (600) for a device (100) for handling vouchers, comprising an input and output compartment (602) for the vouchers (13), a withdrawal unit (606) for withdrawing vouchers (13) from the input and output compartment (602), a voucher stacking unit (206) for stacking vouchers (13) in the input and output compartment (602), and wherein the voucher stacking unit (206) is movable at least between a first operating position and a second operating position.

11. Input and output device according to claim 10, comprising the variable transport arrangement (200) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 9, wherein the note stacking unit (206) of the variable transport arrangement (200) is the note stacking unit (206) of the input and output device (600).

12. Input and output tray according to one of the preceding claims 10 and 11, wherein the security note stacking unit (206) is arranged in the first operating position at a first distance to the pull unit (606) and in the second operating position at a second distance to the pull unit (606), wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance, and / or wherein the security note stacking unit (206) is arranged at least in the second operating position such that the security note stacking unit (206) exerts a pressure force on the pull unit (606).

13. Device (100) for handling banknotes, comprising the variable transport arrangement (200) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 9, and / or comprising the input and output device (600) according to any one of the preceding claims 10 to 12.

14. Method for controlling the input and output device (600) according to any one of the preceding claims 10 to 12, comprising the following steps: moving the security note stacking unit (206) in the direction of the pull unit (606), in particular to exert a pressing force on the pull unit (606), pulling security notes (13) from a security note stack in the input and output compartment (602), and stacking security notes (13) in the input and output compartment (602) using the security note stacking unit (206).

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