Coin processor and coin processor control method

Abstract

To provide a coin processor that can prevent users from being distracted after the completion of a transaction without slowing down the change preparation operation.SOLUTION: A coin processor includes: a first storage unit and a second storage unit for storing coins; a transport unit for transporting coins; a withdrawal port for withdrawing coins to the outside; and a control unit that executes a first operation for transporting coins stored in the first storage unit to the second storage unit to store the coins, and a second operation for withdrawing coins stored in the second storage unit through the withdrawal port. The control unit executes the first operation between the time when the first operation is executed and the time when the next second operation is started. The time to execute the first operation can be changed within the period of time from the execution of the second operation to the start of the next second operation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a coin processing device and a method for controlling the coin processing device. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, currency handling devices that handle the deposit and withdrawal of currency are installed in stores, etc. Patent Document 1 discloses a currency handling device that switches an operation mode between a first mode (normal mode) in which a conveying path that conveys currency is driven at a first conveying speed, and a second mode (eco mode) in which the conveying path is driven at a second conveying speed slower than the first conveying speed, and drives the conveying path at a speed corresponding to the switched operation mode.

[0003] The operating mode can be switched based on factors occurring within the currency handling device itself (internal factors) or factors from outside the currency handling device (external factors). The currency handling device achieves high-speed processing in the first mode, and power saving and low noise in the second mode. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2011-159074 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in the technology of Patent Document 1, although it is possible to reduce noise by operating in the second mode (eco mode), the processing speed becomes slow. Also, since the operating noise is not eliminated, when a preparatory operation such as preparing change for the transaction of the next user is performed after a user who has completed a transaction, the operating noise may attract the attention of the user who has completed the transaction.

[0006] The present disclosure is intended to solve the conventional problems described above, and aims to provide a coin processing device and a control method for a coin processing device that can prevent attracting the user's attention after a transaction is completed without slowing down the speed of the change preparation operation. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, the coin processing device of the present disclosure has a first storage unit and a second storage unit that store coins, a transport unit that transports the coins, a withdrawal port that dispensing the coins to the outside, and a control unit that performs a first operation of transporting the coins stored in the first storage unit to the second storage unit and storing them, and a second operation of dispensing the coins stored in the second storage unit from the withdrawal port, wherein the control unit performs the first operation after performing the first operation and before the next second operation is started, and the time to perform the first operation is changeable between performing the second operation and before the next second operation is started.

[0008] In addition, in the coin processing device of the present disclosure, the control unit may acquire information regarding when to perform the first action input by a user via an input unit, and set the time to perform the first action according to the acquired information.

[0009] Moreover, in the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the control unit may display, on the input unit, a screen on which the time until the start of the first operation can be input.

[0010] In addition, in the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the control unit may display on the input unit a time period from completion of the second operation until starting the first operation, which time period can be selected from a plurality of predetermined times.

[0011] Furthermore, in the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the control unit may display, on the input unit, information relating to when to execute the first action, selectable from a plurality of options.

[0012] In addition, in the coin processing device of the present disclosure, the control unit may display, as the multiple options, at least one of: executing the first operation after a predetermined time has elapsed after completion of the second operation; or executing the first operation immediately after the second operation, selectably.

[0013] In addition, in the coin processing device of the present disclosure, the control unit may acquire information regarding a user's input to an order input unit that accepts input for a transaction, and may selectably display as the multiple options at least one option, which is to execute the first operation during user input to the order input unit.

[0014] In the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the control unit may set a time period from the second operation until the start of the first operation.

[0015] Furthermore, in the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the control unit may set when to execute the first operation from among a plurality of options.

[0016] In the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the control unit may execute the first operation when a predetermined time has elapsed since the second operation is completed.

[0017] Moreover, in the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the control unit may set the first operation to be executed consecutively to the second operation.

[0018] Furthermore, in the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the control unit may set when to execute the first action depending on the frequency of the second action.

[0019] In addition, in the coin processing device of the present disclosure, the control unit may execute the first operation a predetermined time after completion of the second operation if the frequency is lower than a predetermined level, and may execute the first operation consecutively to the second operation if the frequency is higher than the predetermined level.

[0020] In addition, the coin processing device of the present disclosure may further include a payout section that pays out the coins to the transport path, and a residue sensor that is arranged in the payout section and detects the remaining of an object within the payout section, and when the residue sensor detects the remaining, the control section may determine whether or not to treat the remaining as an error depending on the content of the processing being performed.

[0021] In addition, the control method for a coin processing device according to the present disclosure includes a first operation of transporting coins from a first storage section that stores coins and storing at least a portion of the coins in a second storage section, and a second operation of dispensing at least a portion of the coins stored in the second storage section from a withdrawal port, wherein the first operation is performed after the second operation is performed and before a next second operation is started, and when the first operation is performed is changeable between after the second operation is performed and before the next second operation is started.

[0022] In addition, the coin processing device of the present disclosure has a first storage unit and a second storage unit that store coins, a transport unit that transports the coins, a withdrawal port that dispensing the coins to the outside, and a control unit that executes a preparatory operation of transporting the coins stored in the first storage unit to the second storage unit and storing them, and a withdrawal operation of dispensing the coins stored in the second storage unit from the withdrawal port, wherein the control unit executes the preparatory operation after the withdrawal operation is completed and before the next withdrawal operation is started, and the timing of executing the preparatory operation is changeable between the completion of the withdrawal operation and the start of the next withdrawal operation.

[0023] In addition, in the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the control unit may acquire information regarding the timing input by an administrator, and set the timing according to the acquired information.

[0024] In addition, in the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the control unit may set a time period from completion of the dispensing operation until starting the preparatory operation.

[0025] In the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the control unit may select the timing for executing the preparatory operation from a plurality of timings.

[0026] In addition, in the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the control unit may select the timing at which a user is inputting information as the timing for executing the preparatory operation.

[0027] Furthermore, in the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the control unit may select, as the timing for executing the preparatory operation, a timing when a predetermined time has elapsed since the dispensing operation is completed.

[0028] Furthermore, in the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the control unit may select, as the timing for executing the preparatory operation, a timing for executing the preparatory operation immediately following the dispensing operation.

[0029] In addition, in the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the control unit may set the timing for executing the preparatory operation in accordance with the frequency of the dispensing operation.

[0030] In addition, in the coin processing device of the present disclosure, the control unit may set the timing for executing the preparatory operation to a timing a predetermined time after completion of the withdrawal operation if the frequency is lower than a predetermined level, and may set the timing for executing the preparatory operation to a timing at which the preparatory operation is executed immediately after the withdrawal operation if the frequency is higher than the predetermined level.

[0031] In addition, in the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the timing for executing the preparatory operation may be changeable within a range not exceeding a specified upper limit for the elapsed time from the completion of the dispensing operation.

[0032] In addition, the coin processing device according to the present disclosure may further include a kiosk terminal, and the control unit may select one of the following timings for executing the preparatory operation: the timing when a user is inputting information, the timing when a predetermined time has elapsed since the withdrawal operation is completed, and the timing when the preparatory operation is executed immediately after the withdrawal operation.

[0033] In addition, when the coin processing device of the present disclosure is configured separately from the kiosk terminal and user operation information cannot be obtained from the kiosk terminal, the control unit may select one of the following timings for executing the preparatory operation: a timing when a predetermined time has elapsed since the withdrawal operation is completed, or a timing when the preparatory operation is executed immediately after the withdrawal operation.

[0034] In addition, in the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the time to execute the first operation may be changed according to output signals from various sensors. For example, the time to execute the first operation may be changed by determining information on the surrounding environment according to output signals from an audio level sensor and an image sensor. In addition, in the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the control unit may set the timing to execute the preparatory operation according to the surrounding audio level.

[0035] In addition, in the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the control unit may set the timing for executing the preparatory operation when a surrounding sound level is lower than a predetermined level.

[0036] In the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the control unit may execute the preparatory operation at a timing when it is detected that there is no person in the vicinity.

[0037] In addition, in the coin processing device of the present disclosure, the control unit may perform the preparatory operation at the timing when it is detected that there are no people in the vicinity only if the frequency of the withdrawal operation is lower than a predetermined level.

[0038] In the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the control unit may set the timing for executing the preparatory operation depending on the degree of congestion in the store.

[0039] In addition, the coin processing device of the present disclosure further has a payout section that pays out the coins to the transport path, and a residue sensor that is arranged in the payout section and detects the remaining of an object within the payout section, and when the residue sensor detects the remaining, the control section may determine whether or not to treat the remaining as an error depending on the content of the processing being executed.

[0040] In addition, in the coin processing device according to the present disclosure, the detection of the remaining coins may be performed by detecting that the light emitted by the remaining coin sensor has been blocked for a predetermined period of time or more.

[0041] In addition, in the coin processing device of the present disclosure, the control unit may not treat the remaining coin as an error for processing performed by operation of a general user, but may treat the remaining coin as an error for processing performed by operation of an administrator.

[0042] In addition, the coin processing device according to the present disclosure may have a remaining sensor separate from the remaining sensor, and the control unit may detect the remaining coins using the separate remaining sensor when the control unit does not consider the remaining coins to be an error.

[0043] In addition, a control method for a coin processing device according to the present disclosure, in a coin processing device having a first storage section and a second storage section for storing coins, includes a first dispensing step of dispensing the coins stored in the second storage section from a dispensing port, a preparation step of transporting the coins from the first storage section and storing the coins in the second storage section, and a second dispensing step of dispensing the coins stored in the second storage section from the dispensing port, and the timing of executing the preparation step is changeable between the completion of the first dispensing step and the start of the second dispensing step. Effect of the Invention

[0044] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to prevent attracting the user's attention after the transaction is completed without slowing down the speed of the change preparation operation. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0045] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the coin processing device and a user in the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of the coin processing device in the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the feeding section in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for setting when the preparatory operation to be performed by the coin processing device is to be performed. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure of a dispensing process performed by the coin processing device. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure of the error determination processing performed by the coin processing device 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0046] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that each of the embodiments described below shows a specific example of the present disclosure. Therefore, the components, the arrangement and connection of the components, the steps, and the order of the steps shown in the following embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Therefore, among the components in the following embodiments, components that are not described in the independent claims will be described as optional components.

[0047] In addition, each drawing is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily a precise illustration. In each drawing, the same reference numerals are used for substantially the same configurations, and duplicated explanations are omitted or simplified.

[0048] (Embodiment 1) 1 is a diagram showing the positional relationship between a coin processing device 1 and a user 2 in the present embodiment 1. Here, the user 2 is a general user who uses the coin processing device 1 to purchase products and receive services.

[0049] The coin processing device 1 has an input / output unit 1a and a coin processing unit 1b. The input / output unit 1a is, for example, a touch panel type display device that displays the contents of products and services and accepts product and service selections and transaction-related operation inputs from the user 2. The user 2 can then purchase products or receive services by depositing money into the coin processing device 1. The input / output unit 1a is an example of an order input unit.

[0050] The coin processing unit 1b is a device that performs a coin deposit operation and a coin dispensing operation. Note that a device that performs a banknote deposit operation and a banknote dispensing operation may be further provided. For example, the coin processing unit 1b performs a preparatory operation (first operation) and a dispensing operation (second operation) described below.

[0051] The preparation operation is an operation of transporting some of the coins stored in the first storage unit described below to the second storage unit and storing them therein, and preparing the change 3 in the coin processing device 1 (first operation). The dispensing operation is an operation of dispensing at least some of the coins stored in the second storage unit from the dispensing port as the change 3 (second operation).

[0052] As shown in Fig. 1, the coin processing device 1 is installed in, for example, a store. When a user 2 makes a payment for a product purchase, etc., with the coin processing device 1, the coin processing device 1 determines whether or not it is necessary to give change 3 to the user 2, and performs a dispensing operation to dispense the change 3 if it is necessary to give the change 3. Then, the user 2 receives the change 3 from the coin processing device 1.

[0053] The user 2 who has received the change 3 moves away from the coin processing device 1.

[0054] The coin processing device 1 adjusts when to execute the preparatory operation between the completion of the previous dispensing operation and the start of the next dispensing operation. For example, the timing to execute the preparatory operation or the conditions for executing the preparatory operation can be changed.

[0055] The setting of when to execute the preparatory operation is performed, for example, by an input / output unit, described later, of the coin processing device 1 accepting input of setting information by a management user of the coin processing device 1 in the store.

[0056] The coin processing device 1 may also communicate with a management server that manages the coin processing device 1, and acquire setting information input by a management user of the coin processing device 1. The coin processing device 1 may also communicate with a mobile terminal operated by the management user, and acquire setting information input by the management user. The mobile terminal is an example of an input unit.

[0057] Furthermore, in the case where a kiosk terminal having a touch panel or operation buttons is provided separately from the coin processing device 1, the coin processing device 1 may communicate with the kiosk terminal and acquire information input by a management user of the coin processing device 1. In this case, the kiosk terminal is an example of an input unit.

[0058] Then, the coin processing device 1 sets when to execute the preparatory operation according to setting information received from the administrative user of the coin processing device 1.

[0059] The administrative user of the coin processing device 1 can set the time until the preparatory operation is executed after the withdrawal operation by operating the input unit. For example, it is possible to arbitrarily set how many seconds or minutes have passed since the withdrawal operation before the preparatory operation is executed. Also, for example, it is possible to set the time that has passed since the withdrawal operation before the preparatory operation is executed by displaying a plurality of predetermined time settings on the input unit and selecting a desired time from among them. It is possible to set the time that has passed since the withdrawal operation is completed, so that the preparatory operation is executed after the user 2 has sufficiently moved away from the coin processing device 1.

[0060] As described above, in the coin processing device 1, the timing for performing the preparatory operation can be changed between the time when the previous dispensing operation is performed and the time when the next dispensing operation is started. For example, the coin processing device 1 selects when to perform the preparatory operation from the following three settings: Setting 1. When User 2 is entering information for a transaction such as ordering a product. Setting 2: When a predetermined time has elapsed since the dispensing operation is completed. The predetermined time is, for example, a sufficient time during which it is expected that the user 2 has left the coin processing device 1. Setting 3. When a preparation operation is executed consecutively to a withdrawal operation.

[0061] Setting 1 is a setting in which a preparatory operation is performed to prepare the change 3 while a user 2 is inputting information via the order input unit to order a product, etc. After the coin processing device 1 performs a dispensing operation to dispense the change 3 in a transaction by the previous user 2, the preparatory operation is performed while the next user 2 is ordering a product, etc. in the next transaction, and the change 3 is replenished in the second storage unit that temporarily stores the change 3.

[0062] Thereafter, when change 3 needs to be given to user 2, a dispensing operation is performed using the prepared change 3. In this way, by performing the preparation operation while user 2 is inputting information, it is possible to prevent user 2 from mistakenly thinking that he or she forgot to take the change 3 or wondering what the sound is. This setting has the advantage of completing the dispensing operation quickly.

[0063] Setting 2 is a setting in which the preparatory operation is performed after a sufficient time has elapsed since the completion of the dispensing operation. If a sufficient amount of time has elapsed since the completion of the dispensing operation, it is expected that the user 2 has sufficiently left the coin processing device 1, and in that situation the preparatory operation is performed.

[0064] In this case, it is possible to prevent User 2 from misunderstanding that he / she forgot to take the change 3 or wondering what the sound is. This setting has the advantage that the withdrawal operation is completed quickly and the next withdrawal operation can be performed immediately after the deposit is confirmed.

[0065] Setting 3 is a setting in which the preparatory operation is performed immediately after the dispensing operation. By providing continuity to the operations and performing the preparatory operation immediately after the dispensing operation is completed, the preparatory operation is completed while the user 2 is focused on operating the coin processing device 1.

[0066] In this case, it is possible to prevent the user 2 from misunderstanding that he or she forgot to take the change 3 or wondering what the sound is about. This setting has the advantage that the next withdrawal operation can be performed immediately.

[0067] The predetermined time in setting 2 includes a time arbitrarily set by user 2 after the withdrawal operation is completed.

[0068] The administrative user of the coin processing device 1 can select from a plurality of options to set when to execute the preparatory operation. For example, at least one of settings 1 to 3 can be set as an option, and the administrative user can select from the options to set when to execute the preparatory operation. For example, at least one of settings 1 to 3 can be displayed selectably on the input unit, and the administrative user can set when to execute the preparatory operation according to the selection operation. The administrative user can select a desired setting according to store information.

[0069] Until now, the coin processing device 1 has changed when to perform preparatory operations by accepting operational input from the administrative user of the coin processing device 1, but it may also be possible to change the timing based on the frequency of transactions conducted by the coin processing device 1, the number of times that automatic doors installed in the store where the coin processing device 1 operates are opened and closed, the level of congestion in the store as determined by camera images within the store, etc.

[0070] For example, when the store's congestion level is lower than a predetermined level, the coin processing device 1 sets a longer time for starting the preparatory operation after the completion of the withdrawal operation, and performs the preparatory operation after the user 2 has moved sufficiently away from the coin processing device 1, thereby preventing the operating noise of the preparatory operation from attracting the attention of the user 2 after the transaction is completed.

[0071] On the other hand, when the congestion level of the store is higher than a predetermined level, the coin processing device 1 may set the time from the completion of the dispensing operation to the start of the preparation operation to be shorter. This allows the transaction to be completed quickly, thereby reducing the congestion level.

[0072] In addition, the coin processing device 1 may change the setting of when to automatically execute the preparation operation depending on the frequency of the dispensing operation.

[0073] For example, when the frequency of dispensing operations is lower than a predetermined level, the coin processing device 1 is set to perform a preparatory operation when a predetermined time has elapsed since the completion of the dispensing operation, as in setting 2. The predetermined time is a time when it is expected that the user 2 has sufficiently moved away from the coin processing device 1.

[0074] Furthermore, when the frequency is higher than the above-mentioned predetermined level, the coin processing device 1 sets the preparatory operation to be executed immediately after the dispensing operation, as in setting 3. This makes it possible to quickly execute the preparatory operation to prepare for the next dispensing operation, while preventing the operation sound of the preparatory operation from attracting the attention of the user 2 after the transaction is completed.

[0075] Furthermore, the control unit 16 of the coin processing device 1 may obtain information on the sound level around the coin processing device 1, and change when to execute the preparation operation depending on the sound level around the coin processing device 1.

[0076] For example, the coin processing device 1 is set to execute the preparation operation a predetermined time interval after the completion of the dispensing operation when the sound level is lower than a predetermined level. The predetermined time is a time during which the user 2 is expected to be sufficiently away from the coin processing device 1.

[0077] On the other hand, if the sound level is higher than the above-mentioned predetermined level, the user 2 does not mind the operation sounds, so the timing for performing the preparatory operation may be any time.

[0078] Furthermore, if the installation environment of the coin processing device 1 is such that the operating noise is not bothersome to the user 2, the coin processing device 1 may be set to perform the preparatory operation when the user 2 is inputting information to order a product, etc., as in setting 1 described above, or immediately following the withdrawal operation, as in setting 3.

[0079] An installation environment of the coin processing device 1 where the operating sound is not bothersome to the user 2 is, for example, the environment of a crowded store or an environment with a high noise level.

[0080] For example, the coin processing device 1 can determine the degree of congestion of a store based on information on the frequency of transactions performed by the coin processing device 1, information on the number of times an automatic door installed in the store where the coin processing device 1 operates is opened and closed, analysis results of camera images within the store, etc. The coin processing device 1 can also determine the noise level based on the noise level detected by a microphone.

[0081] When the store is crowded or the noise level is high, the coin processing device 1 is set to execute a preparatory operation while the user 2 is inputting information to order a product, etc., as in setting 1, or to execute the preparatory operation immediately following the dispensing operation, as in setting 3.

[0082] In this case, even if the user 2 is present in the coin processing device 1, the operation sound is not so disturbing, so the preparatory operation is set to be executed according to setting 1 or setting 3, which allows the preparatory operation to be completed quickly.

[0083] Furthermore, when the interval between execution of the deposit and withdrawal processes is equal to or longer than a predetermined time, the coin processing device 1 may be set to execute the preparatory operation when a predetermined time has elapsed since the completion of the withdrawal operation, as in setting 2. The predetermined time includes an elapsed time arbitrarily set by the user 2.

[0084] If the interval between deposit and withdrawal processes is longer than a predetermined time, it is assumed that the store is not very crowded and the noise level is low, so the preparatory operation is carried out after a predetermined time has elapsed when it is expected that user 2 has moved sufficiently away from the coin processing device 1.

[0085] In addition, the coin processing device 1 may set the elapsed time from the completion of the dispensing operation for executing the preparatory operation within a range not exceeding an upper limit specified by an administrator of the coin processing device 1 regarding the elapsed time from the completion of the dispensing operation.

[0086] This limits the time that has elapsed since the completion of the dispensing operation to perform the preparatory operation, making it possible to quickly prepare for the next dispensing operation.

[0087] Furthermore, when the coin processing device 1 is configured integrally with a kiosk terminal, it may be configured to accept a selection of which setting to use from among the above-mentioned settings 1 to 3 from an administrative user of the coin processing device 1.

[0088] In addition, if the coin processing device 1 is configured separately from the kiosk terminal, and the coin processing device 1 is unable to obtain operation information by the user 2 from the kiosk terminal, the coin processing device 1 may be configured to accept a selection of either setting 2 or setting 3 described above from an administrator of the coin processing device 1.

[0089] In addition, a camera may be provided to capture images of the area around the currency handling device 1, and the currency handling device 1 may detect that there are no people around the currency handling device 1 by analyzing the images captured by the camera, and then perform preparatory operations.

[0090] The detection of the absence of people around the currency handling device 1 by the user 2 may be performed by a method other than a method using an image captured by a camera, such as by using a human presence sensor.

[0091] The currency handling device 1 may execute this process only when the frequency of the currency handling device 1's dispensing operation is lower than a predetermined level. This is because if the currency handling device 1 does not perform the preparatory operation until the user 2 leaves the currency handling device 1 when the store is crowded, there is a risk of interference with the next dispensing process.

[0092] Furthermore, the coin processing device 1 may analyze images taken by a camera inside the store to determine the degree of congestion inside the store, and may execute preparatory operations when it detects that the degree of congestion is lower than a predetermined level.

[0093] Fig. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of the coin processing device 1 in the present embodiment 1. As described in Fig. 1, the coin processing device 1 has an input / output unit 1a and a coin processing unit 1b.

[0094] The input / output unit 1a includes, for example, a voice output unit 18 and a touch panel display device 19. The input / output unit 1a is an example of an order input unit.

[0095] The audio output unit 18 is a speaker that outputs audio. The display device 19 is, for example, a display device in which a touch panel and a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display are integrated together.

[0096] The coin processing unit 1b has a first storage section 11, a second storage section 12, a payout section 13, a transport section 14, a recognition section 15, a control section (CPU) 16, a memory 17, a deposit port 21, a withdrawal port 22, and a discharge mechanism 23.

[0097] The first storage unit 11 stores a mixture of coins of multiple denominations. The first storage unit 11 can discharge the stored coins by a discharge mechanism 23 described later. The coins are discharged from the first storage unit 11 to the payout unit 13, for example.

[0098] The second storage unit 12 stores a mixture of coins of a plurality of denominations. The second storage unit 12 can also discharge the stored coins. The coins are discharged from the second storage unit 12 to the payout unit 13, for example.

[0099] The second storage unit 12 stores some of the coins discharged from the first storage unit 11 among the multiple coins stored in the first storage unit 11. The coins stored in the second storage unit 12 are used, for example, as change reserve.

[0100] The payout unit 13 pays out coins discharged from the first storage unit 11 or the second storage unit 12 one by one to the transport unit 14. The payout unit 13 is provided, for example, below the second storage unit 12 and in close proximity to the second storage unit. This allows coins discharged from the second storage unit 12 to be immediately inserted into the payout unit 13, so that coins can be quickly paid out from the second storage unit 12 to the transport unit 14.

[0101] The transport unit 14 transports coins along a transport path between the payout unit 13, the first storage unit 11, the second storage unit 12, and the dispensing port. The transport unit 14 transports coins along the transport path using, for example, a belt and a motor.

[0102] The recognition unit 15 is a device that recognizes the denomination, authenticity, fitness, etc. of the coins conveyed by the conveying unit 14. The recognition unit 15 may also have a function of counting the number of coins conveyed by the conveying unit 14. The recognition unit is composed of an optical sensor such as a camera. The recognition unit recognizes the denomination, authenticity, fitness, etc. of the coins based on image information acquired by the sensor.

[0103] The control unit, CPU (Central Processing Unit) 16, is a processor that controls the operation of each unit of the coin processing device 1. The CPU can be implemented, for example, on an FPGA, an ASIC, a PLD, or using a separate logic circuit. The control unit 16 is an example of a processor and control unit of the present disclosure. The control unit 16 controls each operation performed by the coin processing device 1 and the execution of each process. The control unit 16 can be implemented as multiple processors that operate in parallel and cooperate to execute instructions of the process of the present invention.

[0104] The memory 17 stores various information necessary for various operations of the coin processing device 1. Examples of information stored in the memory 17 include first denomination number information indicating the number of coins of each denomination stored in the first storage unit 11 at that time, and second denomination number information indicating the number of coins of each denomination stored in the second storage unit 12.

[0105] The deposit port 21 is an opening that accepts deposits from outside the coin processing device 1. Coins deposited through the deposit port 21 are moved to the payout unit 13.

[0106] The dispensing port 22 is an opening for dispensing coins to the outside of the coin processing device 1.

[0107] The discharge mechanism 23 is a mechanism for discharging coins from the first storage unit 11 to the pay-out unit 13. The discharge mechanism 23 is, for example, a belt conveyor having protrusions provided inside the first storage unit 11. The belt conveyor is driven by a motor or the like to transport coins and discharge them to the pay-out unit 13.

[0108] Next, the structure of the coin processing device 1 of the present disclosure will be described in more detail. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the payout unit 13 in this embodiment.

[0109] The payout unit 13 includes, for example, a rotating disk 31 having protrusions on its surface. The rotating disk 31 is disposed at a predetermined angle with respect to the vertical direction, and rotates by a motor or the like while inclined. The rotating disk 31 rotates clockwise.

[0110] When a coin 32 enters the payout unit 13, the coin 32 is stored in the space between the lower part of the turntable 31 and the cover. As the turntable 31 rotates, the coins 32 are hooked one by one onto the protrusions and moved upward. The coins 32 hooked onto the protrusions and moved upward are paid out from a guide 33 provided on the outer periphery of the turntable 31 in the payout unit 13. The guide 33 is connected to the transport unit 14. With this configuration, the payout unit 13 can pay out the coins 32 one by one onto the transport path 14.

[0111] Moreover, the turntable 31 of the payout unit 13 is provided below the outlet of the second storage unit 12 and in close proximity to the second storage unit 12. Moreover, the second storage unit 12 has an openable bottom, and when the bottom is opened, the coins stored in the second storage unit 12 fall into the payout unit 13 located immediately below the second storage unit 12.

[0112] Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a setting procedure for determining when the coin processing device 1 will execute a preparatory operation. The flowchart in Fig. 4 is realized by the control unit 16 expanding a program stored in the memory 17 and controlling each unit. This flowchart is started, for example, when a setting menu is selected in the input unit. Alternatively, it may be started when the coin processing device 1 is started.

[0113] Here, the time when the preparatory operation is performed can be changed between the completion of a dispensing operation and the start of the next dispensing operation.

[0114] This setting may be made by a management server connected to the coin processing device 1 via a network, or a portable terminal carried by a management user of the coin processing device 1, or may be made by operating an operation input unit of the coin processing device 1. It may also be made by operating the input / output unit 1a. The portable terminal, the operation input unit, and the input / output unit 1a are examples of an input unit.

[0115] First, the control unit 16 of the coin processing device 1 causes any one of the input units to execute a screen display for operation input in order to specify when to execute the preparation operation (step S1).

[0116] Fig. 5 is an example of a screen display. As described above, the administrative user can set the time that elapses from the completion of a withdrawal operation until the start of a preparatory operation. The control unit 16, for example, causes a screen display that allows an arbitrary elapsed time to be set (Fig. 5(a)). Also, for example, causes a screen display that allows a selection from a plurality of predetermined elapsed times to be set (Fig. 5(b)).

[0117] As described above, the setting may be selectable from a plurality of options. In this case, the control unit 16 causes the input unit to display a plurality of options in a selectable manner (FIG. 5(c)).

[0118] The control unit 16 acquires the information input to the input unit and sets when to execute the preparatory operation (step S2). The control unit 16 stores in the memory 17 when to execute the preparatory operation based on the acquired information, and ends the setting.

[0119] The setting of when to execute the preparation operation may be determined and executed by the coin processing device 1. In that case, for example, the flow chart of FIG. 4 may be started in response to a change in the surrounding environment by acquiring signals from various sensors.

[0120] In this case, the screen display in step S1 is not performed, and as explained above, the coin processing device 1 determines when to perform the change preparation operation depending on the degree of congestion in the store, etc., and in step S2, it may set the time to automatically perform the preparation operation. As described above, for example, the settings can be changed based on the dispensing frequency of the coin processing device 1, congestion determination based on camera images, audio level determination based on audio sensors, etc. The time elapsed from the completion of the dispensing operation to the start of the preparatory operation is set based on signals from various sensors. Alternatively, the time to execute the preparatory operation is selected from multiple options and set based on signals from various sensors.

[0121] Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for dispensing processing performed by the coin processing device 1. The flowchart in Fig. 6 is realized by the control unit 16 expanding a program stored in the memory 17 and controlling each unit. This flowchart is started, for example, when the coin processing device 1 receives a deposit / withdrawal instruction. When a user 2, who is a customer of the store and a general user, visits the store and operates the coin processing device 1 to, for example, order and confirm a product or the like, a deposit / withdrawal instruction is sent to the coin processing device 1.

[0122] When a deposit / withdrawal instruction is received, the control unit 16 obtains from the memory 17 a setting as to when the preparatory operation should be performed (step S11).

[0123] Next, the coins deposited through the deposit port are received, and the coins dispensed from the dispensing unit 13 are identified by the recognition unit 15 to determine the deposit amount (step S12). If there is a banknote processing device separate from the coin processing device 1, the deposit amount is determined by adding the amount of banknotes deposited in the banknote processing device. The deposited coins are transported by the transport unit 14 to the first storage unit 11 and stored therein.

[0124] After the deposit amount is confirmed, the control unit 16 calculates the change to be given to the user 2 based on the deposit / withdrawal instruction and the confirmed deposit amount, and executes a withdrawal operation to withdraw the calculated change (step S13).

[0125] Then, the control unit 16 executes a preparatory operation of transporting coins from the first storage unit 11 to the second storage unit 12 to replenish the change fund based on the settings acquired in step S11 (step S14).

[0126] In this way, in the first embodiment, the time when the coin processing device 1 executes the preparatory operation can be changed between the completion of a dispensing operation and the start of the next dispensing operation.

[0127] Therefore, the manager of the coin processing device 1 can set the preparation operation to be performed at a time when the manager can avoid attracting the attention of the user 2 without slowing down the speed of the change preparation operation.

[0128] Alternatively, the coin processing device 1 can be automatically set to perform the preparation operation for the change when it is possible to avoid attracting the attention of the user 2 without slowing down the speed of the preparation operation, depending on the level of congestion in the store, etc.

[0129] When a store has a plurality of coin processing devices 1, each coin processing device 1 may independently accept settings for execution of the preparatory operation and determine execution of the preparatory operation.

[0130] In addition, after one coin processing device 1 accepts settings for executing a preparatory operation or determines whether to execute the preparatory operation, other coin processing devices 1 may acquire that information and be set to execute the preparatory operation with the same settings as the one coin processing device 1.

[0131] Second Embodiment Next, a coin processing device 1 in a second embodiment will be described. The coin processing device 1 in the second embodiment may have a configuration similar to that shown in Figures 2 and 3. Therefore, the following description will be given taking the configuration of the coin processing device 1 shown in Figures 2 and 3 as an example.

[0132] For example, foreign objects such as pieces of paper are easily inserted by mistake because general users 2 insert coins into the coin processing device 1. The foreign objects inserted into the coin processing device 1 are stored in the feeding unit 13 together with the coins.

[0133] Residual sensors 41 and 42 that detect remaining coins or foreign objects are provided in the payout unit 13. The residual sensors 41 and 42 are sensors that detect whether or not coins or foreign objects remain on the path of light based on whether or not light emitted from the light-emitting unit reaches the light-receiving unit without being blocked by coins or foreign objects.

[0134] When the residual sensors 41, 42 detect remaining coins or foreign objects, the coin processing device 1 performs a removal operation to return the remaining coins or foreign objects to the user 2 after the deposit process. However, if the foreign object is a piece of paper, it may remain without being caught by the protrusions of the turntable 31, in which case the foreign object cannot be removed and an error will ultimately occur.

[0135] In the second embodiment, the control unit 16 determines whether a coin or a foreign object such as a piece of paper remains based on the light blocking state of the residual sensor .

[0136] The remaining coins can be detected by the residual sensor 41 and the residual sensor 42. However, when coins remain, the coins get caught on the protrusions of the turntable 31 and fall off the protrusions, so that the residual sensor 42 repeatedly transmits and blocks light.

[0137] On the other hand, the scrap of paper does not block the light at the residual sensor 41, or even if it does block the light, it is above a foreign object exclusion gate (not shown) at the position of the residual sensor 41, so it can be removed by the exclusion operation. Furthermore, at the residual sensor 42, the remaining scrap of paper remains without getting caught on the protrusions of the turntable 31, and continues to block the light emitted by the light projector.

[0138] Therefore, when the residual sensor 42 is continuously blocked from light for a predetermined time or more, the control unit 16 temporarily manages the situation as a residual error having occurred. When the residual sensor 42 is continuously blocked from light for a predetermined time or more, it is considered that a piece of paper remains.

[0139] After that, the control unit 16 judges whether to confirm the above-mentioned remaining error as an error or to ignore it according to the contents of the processing to be executed. If it is confirmed as an error, the coin processing device 1 stops operation and notifies the administrative user of the error.

[0140] For example, in the case of a process such as a deposit process or a withdrawal process that is performed by an operation of user 2 who is a general user, control unit 16 ignores the above-mentioned residual error.

[0141] As a result, even if a piece of paper is inserted, no error occurs and the coin processing device 1 continues to operate normally. Even if a foreign object such as a piece of paper remains, the coin dispensing process is not affected.

[0142] If the residual sensor 42 is continuously blocked by a piece of paper for a predetermined time or more, the residual sensor 42 will be unable to detect remaining coins, but the residual sensor 41 will continue to detect remaining coins as normal. After the residual sensor 42 is in a light-blocking state for a predetermined time or more, the residual sensor 41 will continue to detect remaining coins based on the output of the residual sensor 41 until the error release operation described below is performed.

[0143] On the other hand, in the case of processes performed by the administrative user of the coin processing device 1, such as refilling coins, counting the number of coins deposited, and resetting the coin processing device 1, the control unit 16 determines that the above-mentioned residual error is an error.

[0144] According to the second embodiment, there is little impact on the coin dispensing operation from the dispensing section 13, and even if the residual sensor 42 detects a piece of paper that is difficult to remove by the foreign object removal operation, the coin processing device 1 does not stop due to an error, thereby improving usability.

[0145] Furthermore, in the case of processing by a management user of the coin processing device 1, the residual error can be confirmed as an error, and the management user of the coin processing device 1 can be prompted to perform an error recovery operation, such as removing the piece of paper.

[0146] Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure of the error determination processing performed by the coin processing device 1. The flowchart in Fig. 7 is realized by the control unit 16 expanding a program stored in the memory 17 and controlling each unit. This flowchart is started, for example, when the coin processing device 1 receives a coin in the dispensing unit 13. For example, the coin processing device 1 determines that a coin has been received in the dispensing unit 13 based on the output of the residual sensor 41 or the residual sensor 42.

[0147] First, the control unit 16 of the coin processing device 1 measures the light blocking time during which the light emitted from the light projecting unit is blocked by the residual sensor 42 (step S21).

[0148] Then, the control unit 16 judges whether the light blocking time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time (step S22). If the light blocking time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time (step S22, YES), the control unit 16 judges that a remainder error, that is, a piece of paper remaining, has occurred (step S23). If the light blocking time is shorter than the predetermined time (step S22, NO), the control unit 16 proceeds to step S27.

[0149] When it is determined in step S23 that a residual error has occurred, control unit 16 determines whether the process content when the residual error occurred is a process performed by an operation of user 2 who is a general user (step S24).

[0150] If the processing content is processing performed by an operation of the user 2 (step S24, YES), the control unit 16 ignores the remaining error that has occurred (step S25).

[0151] Thereafter, it is determined whether there are any coins in the dispensing unit 13 (step S27), and if there are any coins (step S27, YES), the process returns to step S21 and continues. If all the coins in the dispensing unit 13 have been dispensed and the unit is empty (step S27, NO), the process being executed is normally terminated.

[0152] If the processing content is not a processing performed by operation of user 2, who is a general user, but a processing performed by an administrative user of the coin processing device 1 (step S24, NO), the control unit 16 determines that the remaining error that has occurred is an error (step S26).

[0153] If it is determined that there is an error, the process proceeds to step S28, and the operation of the coin processing device 1 is stopped. Furthermore, the control unit 16 notifies the administrative user of the error, and this flowchart ends.

[0154] In this way, in the second embodiment, when the residual sensor detects a residual indicating a predetermined output, it is determined whether or not to treat it as a residual error depending on the contents of the process to be executed, so that the coin processing device 1 is not stopped for processes that can be continued without causing any problems, and the usability can be improved by continuing the process. For example, it is possible to reduce the number of times the device is stopped due to residual errors that do not interfere with operation, such as residual pieces of paper.

[0155] It should be noted that the present embodiment is not limited to the above embodiment, and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0156] 1 Coin processing device 1a Display section 2. Users 3. Change 11 First storage section 12 Second storage section 13 Payout section 14 Conveyor section 15 Identification section 16 Control section 17 Memory 21 Deposit port 22 Withdrawal port 23 Ejection mechanism 31 Turntable 32 Coins 33 Guide 41 Residual Sensor 42 Residual Sensor

Claims

1. a first storage section and a second storage section for storing coins; A conveying unit that conveys the coins; a dispensing port for dispensing the coins to the outside; a control unit that executes a first operation of transporting the coins stored in the first storage unit to the second storage unit and storing them therein, and a second operation of dispensing the coins stored in the second storage unit from the dispensing port, The control unit executes the first operation after executing the first operation and before a subsequent second operation is started, A coin processing device in which the time when the first operation is performed can be changed between when the second operation is performed and when the next second operation is started.

2. The coin processing device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit acquires information regarding when to perform the first operation input by a user via an input unit, and sets the time to perform the first operation according to the acquired information.

3. The coin processing device according to claim 2 , wherein the control unit causes the input unit to display a screen on which a time period from completion of the second operation until start of the first operation can be input.

4. The coin processing device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the control unit causes the input unit to display a time period from completion of the second operation until the start of the first operation, selectable from a plurality of predetermined times.

5. The coin processing device according to claim 2 , wherein the control unit causes the input unit to display information relating to when the first operation is to be performed in a selectable manner from a plurality of options.

6. The control unit includes at least the following options: performing the first operation after a predetermined time has elapsed since completion of the second operation; or performing the first operation consecutively to the second operation; The coin processing device according to claim 5, wherein the following is displayed in a selectable manner:

7. The control unit acquires information related to an input by a user to an order input unit that accepts input for a transaction, The plurality of options include at least: executing the first action during user input to the order input unit; The coin processing device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the following is selectively displayed:

8. The coin processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit sets a time period from the second operation until the start of the first operation.

9. The coin processing device according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the control unit sets when to execute the first action from among a plurality of options.

10. The coin processing device according to claim 4 , wherein the control unit sets the first operation to be executed when a predetermined time has elapsed since the second operation was completed.

11. The coin processing device according to claim 1 or 4, wherein the control unit sets the first operation to be executed consecutively to the second operation.

12. The coin processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit sets when the first operation is to be performed in accordance with a frequency of the second operation.

13. The coin processing device according to claim 12, wherein the control unit executes the first operation when a predetermined time has elapsed since completion of the second operation if the frequency is lower than a predetermined level, and executes the first operation consecutively to the second operation if the frequency is higher than the predetermined level.

14. A coin feed unit that feeds the coins to the transport path; a remaining sensor disposed in the payout portion and configured to detect an object remaining in the payout portion; and The coin processing device according to claim 1 , wherein, when the residual sensor detects the residual, the control unit determines whether or not to regard the residual as an error depending on the content of the processing being performed.

15. A method for controlling a coin processing device, comprising: A first operation of transporting coins from a first storage unit that stores coins and storing at least a portion of the coins in a second storage unit; a second operation of dispensing at least a portion of the coins stored in the second storage unit through a dispensing port, After the second operation is performed, the first operation is performed until the next second operation is started; A control method in which the time when the first action is performed can be changed between after the second action is performed and before the next second action is started.

Images