Money processor and settlement system

Abstract

To provide a money processor, etc. that can improve usability of customers.SOLUTION: A money processor includes a storage that stores money for each denomination, a storage unit that stores the maximum number of money that can be used, a settlement control unit that controls the settlement process, a display unit that displays a screen to an operator, and a display control unit that controls the display of the screen. The settlement control unit changes the maximum number of money to be used in accordance with the money storage status in the storage, performs settlement processing based on the maximum number of money after the change, and returns the money when used in excess of the maximum number of money after the change. The display control unit displays on the display unit that the money has been returned because it has been used in excess of the maximum number of money after the change.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a currency processing device and a settlement system. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there has been proposed a device that limits the number of bills that can be inserted depending on the storage status of the storage unit, while also allowing customers to use the device for currency exchange purposes. For example, the currency handling device described in Patent Document 1 comprises a storage unit that stores currency by denomination, a memory unit that stores a maximum number of currency of a given denomination that can be used, and a control unit that controls the settlement process.The control unit changes the maximum number of currency that can be used depending on the storage status of currency in the storage unit, and performs settlement processing based on the changed maximum number of currency. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2022-85565 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Even if the changed upper limit number of coins is displayed for each denomination as in the device described in Patent Document 1, there is a risk that the upper limit number of coins will be exceeded, and it is possible to return the coins to the customer when the upper limit number of coins is exceeded. From the viewpoint of customer usability, when the coins are returned to the customer, it is desirable to inform the customer of the reason for the return. The present invention aims to provide a currency processing device etc. that can improve usability for customers. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The present invention, which was completed with the above objective in mind, comprises a storage unit for storing currency by denomination, a memory unit for storing an upper limit for the number of currency that can be used, a settlement control unit for controlling the settlement process, a display unit for displaying a screen to an operator, and a display control unit for controlling the display of the screen. the settlement control unit varies the upper limit number of coins that can be used in accordance with the storage status of the coins in the storage vault, performs the settlement process based on the changed upper limit number, which is the upper limit number of coins that can be used after the change, and if the coins are used in the settlement process in excess of the changed upper limit number, they are returned, and the display control unit, at the time of the return, displays on the display unit a message to the effect that the coins have been returned because they have been used in excess of the changed upper limit number. Here, the display control unit may cause the display unit to display the changed upper limit number at the time of the return. In addition, the memory unit may store the maximum number of coins that can be used for each denomination, the settlement control unit may set the post-change maximum number of coins for each denomination and determine whether or not the coins have been used in excess of the post-change maximum number for each inserted denomination, and the display control unit may display on the display unit, at the time of return, that the coins have been returned because the denomination used exceeded the post-change maximum number. Alternatively, the memory unit may store the maximum number of coins that can be used as the total number of all denominations, the settlement control unit may set the total number of coins as the post-fluctuation maximum number and determine whether the total number of coins inserted exceeds the post-fluctuation maximum number, and the display control unit may, at the time of return, cause the display unit to display a message indicating that the coins have been returned because the total number of coins inserted exceeded the post-fluctuation maximum number. From another perspective, the present invention is a settlement system comprising a storage unit that stores coins by denomination, a memory unit that stores a maximum number of coins that can be used, a settlement control unit that controls a settlement process, a display unit that displays a screen to an operator, and a display control unit that controls the display of the screen, wherein the settlement control unit fluctuates the maximum number of coins that can be used in accordance with the storage status of the coins in the storage unit, and performs the settlement process based on the maximum number of coins that has been fluctuated, which is the maximum number of coins that has been used in accordance with the fluctuated maximum number, and returns the coins during the settlement process if they have been used in excess of the maximum number of coins that have been fluctuated, and at the time of the return, the display control unit causes the display unit to display a message to the effect that the coins have been returned because they have been used in excess of the maximum number of coins that have been fluctuated. Effect of the Invention

[0006] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a currency processing device etc. that can improve usability for customers. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of a settlement system according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a currency handling device. [Diagram 3] A block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a currency processing device. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a diagram used to explain a return function. [Diagram 5] 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a setting process performed by a setting unit. [Figure 6] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a settlement process performed by a coin control unit. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display unit. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a diagram used to explain a return function according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a setting process performed by a setting unit. [Figure 10]13 is a flowchart showing an example of a settlement process performed by a coin control unit. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. First Embodiment FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of a settlement system 1 (hereinafter, may be simply referred to as "system 1") according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the currency handling device 10. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the currency handling device 10. The system 1 includes a currency handling device 10 and a terminal device 20.

[0009] The terminal device 20 can be, for example, a fixed terminal such as a POS register having an operation unit operated by a user, a display unit that displays the currency processing status in the currency processing device 10, a printing unit that issues receipts, etc. Furthermore, the terminal device 20 is not limited to being a fixed type, and may be a portable terminal such as a tablet terminal, a tablet PC, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a notebook PC, or a multi-function mobile phone (a so-called "smartphone"). The currency handling device 10 and the terminal device 20 may be, for example, installed at a checkout counter in a commercial facility or the like.

[0010] The currency processing device 10 and the terminal device 20 are capable of communicating with each other via a network 30. The network 30 is not particularly limited as long as it is a communication network used for data communication between devices, and can be, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network). The communication line used for data communication can be either wired or wireless, and a combination of these may be used. Examples of wireless LAN include WiFi (registered trademark) and Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0011] When a customer purchases products at a commercial facility, a settlement process is performed at a checkout counter. The settlement process includes a process of calculating the amount of the transaction between the commercial facility and the customer from the price and quantity of each product purchased by the customer, and a process of the commercial facility receiving money from the customer for the amount of the transaction. The settlement process also includes a process of, if the amount of money received by the commercial facility from the customer exceeds the amount of the transaction, returning the difference between the amount of the transaction and the amount of the received money to the customer as change.

[0012] When a store clerk at a commercial facility performs the process from reading product barcodes to processing the payment, the currency processing device 10 and terminal device 20 function as a POS register. On the other hand, when a customer performs the process from reading product barcodes to processing the payment, the currency processing device 10 and terminal device 20 function as a self-checkout register. When a store clerk at a commercial facility reads product barcodes and the customer performs the payment, the currency processing device 10 and terminal device 20 function as a semi-self-checkout register.

[0013] During settlement processing, the currency handling device 10 functions as a change dispenser. Specifically, the currency handling device 10 executes a deposit process for the currency paid by the customer and stores within the device currency equal to or greater than the transaction amount. If the deposited amount exceeds the transaction amount, the currency handling device 10 executes a dispensing process and dispenses as change the amount of currency equal to the difference between the deposited amount and the transaction amount.

[0014] Next, the configuration of the currency handling device 10 will be described in detail. The currency handling machine 10 includes a coin handling machine 100 which performs a coin deposit / withdrawal process, and a banknote handling machine 200 which performs a banknote deposit / withdrawal process. Coins and banknotes deposited by customers are deposited in the coin handling machine 100 and the banknote handling machine 200, respectively, and coins and banknotes are dispensed as change from the coin handling machine 100 and the banknote handling machine 200, respectively. As shown in Fig. 1, the coin handling machine 100 and the banknote handling machine 200 can be, for example, arranged side by side. However, the coin handling machine 100 and the banknote handling machine 200 may also be arranged side by side vertically.

[0015] Coin Processing Machine 100 The coin processing machine 100 has a coin receiving unit 101 that receives coins, and a coin dispensing unit 102 that dispenses coins. The coin receiving unit 101 and the coin dispensing unit 102 are provided in the front part of a housing 110. The coin processing machine 100 also has a deposit transport section 103 that transports coins taken into the housing 110 by the coin receiving section 101, and a coin recognition section 104 that is provided midway along the deposit transport section 103 and recognizes the coins. The coin processing machine 100 also has a coin storage unit 106 that stores coins by denomination, and a dispensing transport unit 108 that transports coins dispensed from the coin storage unit 106 to the coin dispensing unit 102.

[0016] The coin storage unit 106 has storage units for storing coins of denominations of 500 yen, 100 yen, 50 yen, 10 yen, 5 yen, and 1 yen. That is, the coin storage unit 106 has a first storage unit 106a for storing 500 yen coins, a second storage unit 106b for storing 100 yen coins, a third storage unit 106c for storing 50 yen coins, a fourth storage unit 106d for storing 10 yen coins, a fifth storage unit 106e for storing 5 yen coins, and a sixth storage unit 106f for storing 1 yen coins. Hereinafter, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the first storage unit 106a to the sixth storage unit 106f, they may be collectively referred to as "storage unit 106z."

[0017] The coin processing machine 100 also has a branching unit 105 located midway through the deposit transport unit 103, which guides coins to be dispensed from the coin dispensing unit 102, such as coins inserted in excess of the upper limit number of coins that can be used, described below, to the withdrawal transport unit 108, based on the results of coin recognition by the coin recognition unit 104. The branching unit 105 guides normal coins to the coin storage unit 106.

[0018] The coin receiving section 101, the coin dispensing section 102, the deposit transport section 103, the coin recognition section 104, the branching section 105, the coin storage section 106 and the withdrawal transport section 108, etc., constitute a coin processing unit 115, and the coin processing unit 115 is configured to be able to be pulled out forward from the housing 110.

[0019] The coin processing machine 100 also has a display unit 112 that displays information such as pictures and characters, and an operation unit 113 that accepts operations from the user, located at the upper front part of the housing 110. The display unit 112 can be, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display. The operation unit 113 has a push button that turns on a switch when pressed.

[0020] The coin processing machine 100 also has a coin control unit 120 that controls the coin receiving unit 101, the coin dispensing unit 102, the deposit transport unit 103, the coin storage unit 106, the withdrawal transport unit 108, etc., and a memory unit 130 used to store data, etc. The coin control unit 120 is composed of a CPU 120a, a ROM 120b, and a RAM 120c. The ROM 120b stores a basic program (operation system) executed by the CPU 120a, various settings, etc. The CPU 120a uses the RAM 120c as a working area and executes application programs read from the ROM 120b or the storage unit 130. The storage unit 130 can be exemplified by a storage device such as a semiconductor memory.

[0021] The coin control unit 120 has a coin receiving unit 121 that receives information transmitted from the banknote control unit 220 described later, and a coin transmitting unit 122 that transmits information to the banknote control unit 220. The coin control unit 120 also has an inventory grasping unit 123 that grasps the number of coins stored in the storage 106z (hereinafter, may be referred to as "inventory"), and a setting unit 124 that sets a usage upper limit number described later based on the inventory grasped by the inventory grasping unit 123. The coin control unit 120 also has a process control unit 125 that executes various processes such as deposit processing, withdrawal processing, etc., and a display control unit 126 that controls the display unit 112.

[0022] The inventory grasping unit 123 may, for example, grasp the inventory by acquiring the number of stored coins detected by a sensor (not shown) provided in the storage 106z for detecting the number of stored coins. The inventory grasping unit 123 may, for example, grasp the inventory by using the weight of stored items detected by a sensor (not shown) provided in the storage 106z for detecting the weight of stored items and the unit weight of coins stored in advance. The functions of the setting unit 124, the process control unit 125, and the display control unit 126 will be described in detail later.

[0023] Banknote processing machine 200 The banknote handling machine 200 has a banknote receiving unit 201 that receives banknotes, and a banknote dispensing unit 202 that dispenses banknotes. The banknote receiving unit 201 and the banknote dispensing unit 202 are provided in the front part of a housing 210. The banknote processing machine 200 also has an annular circulating transport unit 203 that is provided in the approximate center of the housing 210 and transports banknotes taken into the housing 210 by the banknote receiving unit 201. The banknote processing machine 200 also has a banknote recognition unit 204 that is provided midway through the circulating transport unit 203 and that recognizes banknotes, and three banknote storage units 206 that store banknotes by denomination. The banknote processing machine 200 also has a withdrawal rejection unit 207 and a banknote collection cassette 208. The banknote processing machine 200 also has a plurality of connecting transport units 209 that respectively connect the banknote receiving unit 201, the banknote dispensing unit 202, the banknote storage unit 206, the withdrawal rejection unit 207, and the banknote collection cassette 208 to the circulating transport unit 203. The banknote processing machine 200 also has a path switching unit (not shown) that is provided between the circulating transport unit 203 and each connecting transport unit 209 and switches the transport path of the banknotes.

[0024] The banknote receiving unit 201, the banknote dispensing unit 202, the withdrawal rejection unit 207, and the banknote collection cassette 208 are provided in the front part of the housing 210. The banknote receiving unit 201, the banknote dispensing unit 202, the circulating transport unit 203, the banknote storage unit 206, the withdrawal rejection unit 207, the banknote collection cassette 208, the connection transport unit 209, etc. constitute a banknote processing unit 215, which is configured to be able to be pulled out forward from the housing 210. The banknote collection cassette 208 is detachably attached to the housing 210.

[0025] The banknote receiving unit 201 takes in deposited banknotes inserted into the banknote receiving port 201a one by one, and feeds them to the circulating transport unit 203. Each banknote storage unit 206 stores the banknotes by denomination based on the recognition result of the banknote recognition unit 204. The banknote dispensing unit 202 takes the banknotes fed from each banknote storage unit 206 to the circulating transport unit 203 out of the housing 210 through the banknote outlet 202a.

[0026] The banknote processing machine 200 also has a banknote control unit 220 that controls the banknote receiving unit 201, the banknote dispensing unit 202, the circulating transport unit 203, the banknote storage unit 206, the connection transport unit 209, and the like. The banknote control unit 220 has a banknote receiving unit 221 that receives information transmitted from the terminal device 20 and the coin transmitting unit 122, and a banknote transmitting unit 222 that transmits information to the coin control unit 120 and the terminal device 20. The banknote control unit 220 also has a process control unit 225 that executes various processes such as deposit process, withdrawal process, collection process, replenishment process, exchange process, and reconciliation process.

[0027] The banknote transmitting unit 222 transmits the status of the coin processing machine 100, etc., transmitted from the coin transmitting unit 122 of the coin control unit 120 to the terminal device 20. In addition, the banknote transmitting unit 222 transmits the information transmitted from the terminal device 20 to the coin receiving unit 121 of the coin control unit 120.

[0028] In the currency processing device 10 configured as described above, the process control unit 125 controls the deposit transport unit 103, the coin storage unit 106, the withdrawal transport unit 108, etc., and the process control unit 225 controls the circulating transport unit 203, the banknote storage unit 206, the connection transport unit 209, etc., thereby performing various processes such as deposit processing, withdrawal processing, etc.

[0029] Return function In the currency handling device 10, for example, there is a risk that the storage 106z will become full (in other words, full) during a deposit due to a large amount of currency being inserted. If the storage 106z becomes full during a deposit, the currency handling device 10 will be unable to continue the deposit, forcing the customer to wait. Also, if the storage 106z becomes full during a deposit, an employee will need to rush to the currency handling device 10 and hurriedly collect the currency and provide an explanation to the customer. In this way, for example, if the storage 106z becomes full during a deposit, it will cause inconvenience to the customer and a workload for the employee.

[0030] In consideration of the above, the currency handling device 10 has a function of returning banknotes that have been used in excess of a predetermined upper limit for each denomination. However, since commercial facilities tend to welcome a large amount of currency to be inserted in order to secure change when the number of currency stored in the coin storage unit 106 or the banknote storage unit 206 (in other words, the balance) is small, the upper limit for the number of currency that can be used is changed depending on the currency storage status in the coin storage unit 106 or the banknote storage unit 206.

[0031] This return function will be described in detail below. FIG. 4 is a diagram used to explain the return function. Although the coin return function will be described in detail below, the following return function can also be applied to the return of paper money.

[0032] In the coin processing machine 100, a reference number is set between the number of coins stored in the storage 106z when the storage 106z is in a full state and the number of coins stored in the storage 106z when the storage 106z is in an empty state. The full state means that the storage 106z is full, and the empty state means that the storage 106z is empty (in other words, the number of stored coins is 0).

[0033] When the storage 106z is not full but has more than the reference number of coins stored therein, the amount of stored coins is relatively large, and although there is a capacity to store coins, it may become full depending on the number of coins stored. Hereinafter, the state of the storage 106z in which the reference number of coins or more are stored but is not full may be referred to as the first state.

[0034] On the other hand, when the number of coins stored in the storage 106z is less than the reference number, the amount of stored coins is relatively small and the storage 106z has a capacity to store more coins. Hereinafter, the state of the storage 106z in which the number of stored coins is less than the reference number may be referred to as the second state. The reference number is determined in advance for each denomination, and the storage unit 130 stores the reference number for each denomination in advance.

[0035] When the storage 106z is in the first state, the coin control unit 120 returns coins that have been used in excess of a predetermined upper limit for each denomination. On the other hand, when the storage 106z is in the second state, the coin control unit 120 changes the predetermined upper limit number of coins that can be used for each denomination, and returns coins that have been used in excess of the changed upper limit number of coins. The upper limit number of coins that can be used for each denomination is pre-stored in the storage unit 130. Hereinafter, the upper limit number of coins that can be used pre-stored in the storage unit 130 may be referred to as an initial value, and the upper limit number of coins that can be used after the change may be referred to as a post-change upper limit number.

[0036] The initial value of the upper limit number of coins that can be used for each denomination can be, for example, the value shown in Fig. 4. That is, the initial values ​​of the upper limit number of coins that can be used for 500 yen, 100 yen, 50 yen, 10 yen, 5 yen, and 1 yen are 2, 10, 4, 10, 4, and 10, respectively. For example, when the number of 100 yen coins present in the second storage 106b is equal to or greater than the reference number, if 100 yen coins are inserted in excess of the initial upper limit number of coins that can be used, the coin control unit 120 returns the 100 yen coins in excess of 10.

[0037] When the storage 106z is in the second state, the coin control unit 120 varies the upper limit number of coins that can be used depending on the storage status of the coins in the storage 106z. More specifically, the coin control unit 120 calculates a subtraction value by subtracting the number of coins stored in the storage 106z (in other words, the amount of coins in stock) from the reference number for each denomination. Then, when the subtraction value exceeds the initial value of the upper limit number of coins that can be used, the coin control unit 120 sets the subtraction value as the post-change upper limit number.

[0038] For example, as shown in Fig. 4, the reference numbers of 500 yen, 100 yen, 50 yen, 10 yen, 5 yen, and 1 yen coins are 80, 150, 80, 150, 80, and 150, respectively. If the stocks of 500 yen, 100 yen, 50 yen, 10 yen, 5 yen, and 1 yen coins are 70, 50, 70, 140, 70, and 145, respectively, the subtraction values ​​are 10, 100, 10, 10, 10, and 5, respectively. Since the subtraction values ​​for 500 yen, 100 yen, 50 yen, and 5 yen exceed the initial values, the coin control unit 120 sets the subtraction values ​​of 10, 100, 10, and 10 as the upper limit numbers after fluctuation, respectively. On the other hand, since the subtraction value for 10 yen is the same as the initial value and the subtraction value for 1 yen is less than the initial value, the coin control unit 120 does not change the upper limit number of coins that can be used and keeps it at the initial value. In addition, if the storage 106z enters the first state or the subtraction value becomes equal to or less than the initial value after setting the post-change upper limit number, the coin control unit 120 sets the usage upper limit number to the initial value.

[0039] [Usage limit setting process] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the setting process performed by the setting unit 124. The setting unit 124 judges whether the number of 500 yen coins present in the first storage 106a (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "the amount of 500 yen coins") is equal to or greater than a reference number of 500 yen coins (e.g., 80 coins) (S501). If the amount of 500 yen coins is equal to or greater than the reference number (YES in S501), the setting unit 124 sets the upper limit number of coins that can be used to an initial value (e.g., 2 coins) (S502). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the initial value in a storage area for the upper limit number of 500 yen coins that is provided in the RAM. Then, the setting unit 124 performs the processes from S505 onwards.

[0040] On the other hand, when the amount of 500 yen coins in stock is less than the reference number (NO in S501), the setting unit 124 judges whether the subtraction value obtained by subtracting the current amount in stock from the reference number is greater than the initial value of the upper limit number of coins that can be used (S503). When the subtraction value is greater than the initial value (YES in S503), the setting unit 124 sets the upper limit number of coins that can be used to the subtraction value (S504). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the subtraction value in a storage area for the upper limit number of coins that can be used provided in the RAM. At this time, when the initial value is stored in the storage area for the upper limit number of coins that can be used, the setting unit 124 changes the upper limit number of coins that can be used from the initial value to the subtraction value. On the other hand, when the subtraction value is equal to or less than the initial value (NO in S503), the setting unit 124 performs the processes from S502 onward.

[0041] Thereafter, the setting unit 124 performs similar processing for 100 yen, 50 yen, 10 yen, 5 yen, and 1 yen. That is, the setting unit 124 judges whether the number of 100 yen coins (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "the amount of 100 yen coins") in the second storage 106b is equal to or greater than the reference number of 100 yen coins (150 coins) (S505). If the amount of 100 yen coins is equal to or greater than the reference number (YES in S505), the setting unit 124 sets the upper limit number of coins that can be used to an initial value (S506). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the initial value in a memory area for the upper limit number of 100 yen coins that can be used provided in the RAM. Then, the setting unit 124 performs the processes from S509 onwards.

[0042] On the other hand, if the amount of 100 yen coins in stock is less than the reference number (NO in S505), the setting unit 124 judges whether the subtraction value obtained by subtracting the current amount in stock from the reference number is greater than the initial value of the upper limit number of coins that can be used (S507). If the subtraction value is greater than the initial value (YES in S507), the setting unit 124 sets the upper limit number of coins that can be used to the subtraction value (S508). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the subtraction value in a storage area for the upper limit number of coins that can be used provided in the RAM. At this time, if the initial value is stored in the storage area for the upper limit number of coins that can be used, the setting unit 124 changes the upper limit number of coins that can be used from the initial value to the subtraction value. On the other hand, if the subtraction value is equal to or less than the initial value (NO in S507), the setting unit 124 performs the processes in and after S506.

[0043] The setting unit 124 judges whether the number of 50 yen coins present in the third storage 106c (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "the amount of 50 yen coins") is equal to or greater than the reference number of 50 yen coins (80 coins) (S509). If the amount of 50 yen coins is equal to or greater than the reference number (YES in S509), the setting unit 124 sets the upper limit number of coins that can be used to an initial value (S510). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the initial value in a storage area for the upper limit number of 50 yen coins that can be used provided in the RAM. Then, the setting unit 124 performs the processes from S513 onwards.

[0044] On the other hand, if the amount of 50 yen coins in stock is less than the reference number (NO in S509), the setting unit 124 judges whether the subtraction value obtained by subtracting the current amount in stock from the reference number is greater than the initial value of the upper limit number of coins that can be used (S511). If the subtraction value is greater than the initial value (YES in S511), the setting unit 124 sets the upper limit number of coins that can be used to the subtraction value (S512). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the subtraction value in a storage area for the upper limit number of coins that can be used provided in the RAM. At this time, if the initial value is stored in the storage area for the upper limit number of coins that can be used, the setting unit 124 changes the upper limit number of coins that can be used from the initial value to the subtraction value. On the other hand, if the subtraction value is equal to or less than the initial value (NO in S511), the setting unit 124 performs the processes in and after S510.

[0045] The setting unit 124 judges whether the number of 10-yen coins present in the fourth storage 106d (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "the amount of 10-yen coins") is equal to or greater than the reference number of 10-yen coins (150 coins) (S513). If the amount of 10-yen coins is equal to or greater than the reference number (YES in S513), the setting unit 124 sets the upper limit number of coins that can be used to an initial value (S514). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the initial value in a storage area for the upper limit number of 10-yen coins that is provided in the RAM. Then, the setting unit 124 performs the processes from S517 onwards.

[0046] On the other hand, if the amount of 10 yen coins in stock is less than the reference number (NO in S513), the setting unit 124 judges whether the subtraction value obtained by subtracting the current amount in stock from the reference number is greater than the initial value of the upper limit number of coins that can be used (S515). If the subtraction value is greater than the initial value (YES in S515), the setting unit 124 sets the upper limit number of coins that can be used to the subtraction value (S516). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the subtraction value in a storage area for the upper limit number of coins that can be used provided in the RAM. At this time, if the initial value is stored in the storage area for the upper limit number of coins that can be used, the setting unit 124 changes the upper limit number of coins that can be used from the initial value to the subtraction value. On the other hand, if the subtraction value is equal to or less than the initial value (NO in S515), the setting unit 124 performs the processes in and after S514.

[0047] The setting unit 124 judges whether the number of 5 yen coins present in the fifth storage 106e (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "the amount of 5 yen coins") is equal to or greater than the reference number of 5 yen coins (80 coins) (S517). If the amount of 5 yen coins is equal to or greater than the reference number (YES in S517), the setting unit 124 sets the upper limit number of coins that can be used to an initial value (S518). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the initial value in a storage area for the upper limit number of 5 yen coins that is provided in the RAM. Then, the setting unit 124 performs the processes from S521 onwards.

[0048] On the other hand, if the amount of 5 yen coins in stock is less than the reference number (NO in S517), the setting unit 124 judges whether the subtraction value obtained by subtracting the current amount in stock from the reference number is greater than the initial value of the upper limit number of coins that can be used (S519). If the subtraction value is greater than the initial value (YES in S519), the setting unit 124 sets the upper limit number of coins that can be used to the subtraction value (S520). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the subtraction value in a storage area for the upper limit number of coins that can be used provided in the RAM. At this time, if the initial value is stored in the storage area for the upper limit number of coins that can be used, the setting unit 124 changes the upper limit number of coins that can be used from the initial value to the subtraction value. On the other hand, if the subtraction value is equal to or less than the initial value (NO in S519), the setting unit 124 performs the processes in S518 and thereafter.

[0049] The setting unit 124 judges whether the number of 1 yen coins present in the sixth storage 106f (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "the amount of 1 yen coins") is equal to or greater than the reference number of 1 yen coins (150 coins) (S521). If the amount of 1 yen coins is equal to or greater than the reference number (YES in S521), the setting unit 124 sets the upper limit number of coins that can be used to an initial value (S522). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the initial value in a storage area for the upper limit number of 1 yen coins that is provided in the RAM. Then, the setting unit 124 performs the processes from S501 onwards.

[0050] On the other hand, if the amount of 1 yen coins in storage is less than the reference number (NO in S521), the setting unit 124 judges whether the subtraction value obtained by subtracting the current amount in storage from the reference number is greater than the initial value of the upper limit number of coins that can be used (S523). If the subtraction value is greater than the initial value (YES in S523), the setting unit 124 sets the upper limit number of coins that can be used to the subtraction value (S524). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the subtraction value in a storage area for the upper limit number of coins that can be used provided in the RAM. At this time, if the initial value is stored in the storage area for the upper limit number of coins that can be used, the setting unit 124 changes the upper limit number of coins that can be used from the initial value to the subtraction value. On the other hand, if the subtraction value is equal to or less than the initial value (NO in S523), the setting unit 124 performs the processes in S522 and thereafter.

[0051] [Settlement process] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a settlement process performed by the coin control unit 120. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on display unit 112. As shown in FIG. The coin control unit 120 repeatedly executes the settlement process at preset fixed time intervals (for example, every 1 millisecond).

[0052] First, the process control unit 125 judges whether the number of inserted 500 yen coins is greater than the upper limit number of coins that can be used (S601). For example, the process control unit 125 judges whether the number of inserted 500 yen coins is greater than the upper limit number of coins that can be used stored in the upper limit number of coins storage area. If the number of inserted 500 yen coins is greater than the upper limit number of coins that can be used (YES in S601), the process control unit 125 returns the coins that exceed the upper limit number of coins that can be used (S602). For example, if the upper limit number of coins that can be used is stored as two in the upper limit number of coins storage area and three 500 yen coins are inserted, the process control unit 125 returns one 500 yen coin.

[0053] When returning the coins in S602, the display control unit 126 causes the display unit 112 to display that the coins have been returned because the number of inserted coins exceeded the upper limit of use (S603). For example, when the upper limit of use of 500 yen coins is two and the number of inserted 500 yen coins is three, the display control unit 126 causes the display unit 112 to display, for example, as shown in FIG. 7, "The number of inserted 500 yen coins has exceeded the upper limit of use, so they will be returned." Furthermore, the display control unit 126 causes the display unit 112 to display the upper limit of use for each denomination. This allows the customer to know what coins can be used instead of the returned coins. The upper limit of use for each denomination displayed on the display unit 112 is a value stored in the upper limit of use for each denomination storage area, and is an initial value or a changed upper limit (in other words, a subtracted value).

[0054] On the other hand, if the number of inserted 500 yen coins is not more than the upper limit for use (NO in S601), the process control unit 125 judges whether the number of inserted 100 yen coins is more than the upper limit for use (S604). If the number of inserted 100 yen coins is more than the upper limit for use (YES in S604), the process control unit 125 returns the 100 yen coins that exceed the upper limit for use (S602) and causes the display unit 112 to display the fact that the number of inserted 100 yen coins exceeded the upper limit for use and therefore were returned (S603).

[0055] On the other hand, if the number of inserted 100 yen coins is not more than the upper limit of use (NO in S604), the process control unit 125 judges whether the number of inserted 50 yen coins is more than the upper limit of use (S605). If the number of inserted 50 yen coins is more than the upper limit of use (YES in S605), the process control unit 125 returns the 50 yen coins that exceed the upper limit of use (S602) and causes the display unit 112 to display the fact that the number of inserted 50 yen coins exceeded the upper limit of use (S603).

[0056] On the other hand, if the number of inserted 50 yen coins is not more than the upper limit for use (NO in S605), the process control unit 125 judges whether the number of inserted 10 yen coins is more than the upper limit for use (S606). If the number of inserted 10 yen coins is more than the upper limit for use (YES in S606), the process control unit 125 returns the 10 yen coins that exceed the upper limit for use (S602) and causes the display unit 112 to display the fact that the inserted 10 yen coins have been returned because the number of inserted 10 yen coins exceeded the upper limit for use (S603).

[0057] On the other hand, if the number of inserted 10 yen coins is not more than the upper limit for use (NO in S606), the process control unit 125 judges whether the number of inserted 5 yen coins is more than the upper limit for use (S607). If the number of inserted 5 yen coins is more than the upper limit for use (YES in S607), the process control unit 125 returns the 5 yen coins that exceed the upper limit for use (S602) and causes the display unit 112 to display the fact that the number of inserted 5 yen coins exceeded the upper limit for use and have been returned (S603).

[0058] On the other hand, if the number of inserted 5 yen coins is not more than the upper limit for use (NO in S607), the process control unit 125 judges whether the number of inserted 1 yen coins is more than the upper limit for use (S608). If the number of inserted 1 yen coins is more than the upper limit for use (YES in S608), the process control unit 125 returns the 1 yen coins that exceed the upper limit for use (S602) and causes the display unit 112 to display the fact that the inserted 1 yen coins have been returned because the number of inserted 1 yen coins exceeded the upper limit for use (S603).

[0059] On the other hand, if the number of inserted 1 yen coins is not greater than the upper limit for use (NO in S608), the process control unit 125 judges whether the amount inserted is equal to or greater than the settlement amount (S609). If the amount inserted is not equal to or greater than the settlement amount (NO in S609), the process control unit 125 performs the process from S601 onwards.

[0060] On the other hand, if the amount inserted is equal to or greater than the settlement amount (YES in S609), the process control unit 125 judges whether or not the settlement button included in the operation unit 113 has been pressed (S610). If the settlement button has not been pressed (NO in S610), the process control unit 125 performs the processes from S601 onwards. The settlement button may be a button displayed on the display unit of the terminal device 20.

[0061] On the other hand, if the settlement button has been pressed (YES in S610), the process control unit 125 completes the settlement process (S611). For example, if the total amount of deposits exceeds the amount of the transaction, the process control unit 125 executes a withdrawal process and pays out the difference in currency obtained by subtracting the amount of the transaction from the amount of deposits as change.

[0062] As described above, the currency processing device 10 includes the storage 106z that stores currency by denomination, the memory unit 130 that stores the upper limit number of currency that indicates the upper limit of the number of currency that can be used, the setting unit 124 and the processing control unit 125 as an example of a settlement control unit that controls the settlement process, the display unit 112 that displays a screen for the operator, and the display control unit 126 that controls the display of the screen. The setting unit 124 and the processing control unit 125 change the upper limit number of currency depending on the storage status of the currency in the storage 106z, perform the settlement process based on the post-change upper limit number that is the post-change upper limit number of currency, and return the currency if it is used in excess of the post-change upper limit number during the settlement process (S602). Furthermore, the display control unit 126 causes the display unit 112 to display, at the time of return, that the currency was returned because it was used in excess of the post-change upper limit number (S603).

[0063] The currency handling device 10 configured as described above displays the reason for return on the display unit 112 when returning currency that has been inserted in excess of the upper limit for use, so that the customer can understand why the inserted currency has been returned. Therefore, the currency handling device 10 can discourage customers from re-inserting the returned currency. Thus, the currency handling device 10 can improve customer usability. Note that in the process of S603, it may be the display unit of the terminal device 20 that causes the display control unit 126 to display the message that the currency has been returned because the number of inserted currency exceeded the upper limit for use.

[0064] As explained in the process of S603 above, when returning the currency, the display control unit 126 causes the display unit 112 to display the changed upper limit number of bills. As a result, according to the currency processing device 10, even if the upper limit number of bills that can be used has changed, the customer can easily understand the number of bills that can be used, thereby improving usability for the customer.

[0065] The memory unit 130 also stores the upper limit number of coins used for each denomination, and the setting unit 124 and the process control unit 125 set the post-change upper limit number for each denomination and determine whether or not the post-change upper limit number has been exceeded for each inserted denomination, and the display control unit 126 causes the display unit 112 to display, at the time of return, that the currency has been returned because the denomination has been used in excess of the post-change upper limit number. Therefore, the currency processing device 10 can improve usability for customers.

[0066] <Second embodiment> The currency handling device according to the second embodiment is different from the currency handling device 10 according to the first embodiment in the setting process performed by the setting unit 124 and the settlement process performed by the coin control unit 120. In the first and second embodiments, components having the same functions are given the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0067] The currency handling device according to the second embodiment has a function of returning currency when the total number of inserted currency exceeds the upper limit number of currency that can be used. However, the commercial facility may change the upper limit number of currency that can be used depending on the currency storage status of the currency storage 106z, for example. This return function will be described in detail below. FIG. 8 is a diagram used to explain the return function according to the second embodiment. Although the coin return function will be described in detail below, the following return function can also be applied to the return of paper money.

[0068] When the total number of inserted coins exceeds the upper limit number of coins that is set by the setting unit 124, the coin control unit 120 returns the excess coins. The initial value of the upper limit number of coins that can be used can be, for example, 40 coins, as shown in FIG. 8. In addition, the initial values ​​of the basic numbers of 500 yen, 100 yen, 50 yen, 10 yen, 5 yen, and 1 yen coins when the initial upper limit number of coins that can be used is 40 coins can be, for example, 2 coins, 10 coins, 4 coins, 10 coins, 4 coins, and 10 coins, as shown in FIG. 8. In addition, when the storage 106z is in the first state, the setting unit 124 sets the basic number of each denomination to the initial value.

[0069] On the other hand, when the storage 106z is in the second state, the setting unit 124 changes the predetermined base number for each denomination, and changes the upper limit number of the total number of inserted coins using the changed base number. Then, when the total number of inserted coins exceeds the upper limit number of the use set by the setting unit 124, the coin control unit 120 returns the excess coins.

[0070] For example, as shown in Fig. 8, the base number of 500 yen, 100 yen, 50 yen, 10 yen, 5 yen, and 1 yen coins is 80, 150, 80, 150, 80, and 150, respectively. If the inventory of 500 yen, 100 yen, 50 yen, 10 yen, 5 yen, and 1 yen coins is 79, 140, 70, 142, 76, and 145, respectively, the subtraction value is 1, 10, 10, 8, 4, and 5, respectively. For 50 yen coins, the subtraction value exceeds the initial value of the base number, so the coin control unit 120 sets the subtraction value, 10, as the base number after the change. On the other hand, the coin control unit 120 does not change the base number and keeps it at the initial value because the subtraction values ​​for 100 yen and 5 yen are the same as the initial value and the subtraction values ​​for 500 yen, 10 yen, and 1 yen are less than the initial value. As a result, the coin control unit 120 sets the total of the base number, 2 + 10 + 10 + 10 + 4 + 10 = 46, as the upper limit number after the change. After varying the base number, if the storage 106z is in the first state or if the subtracted value is equal to or less than the initial value, the coin control unit 120 sets the base number to the initial value.

[0071] [Usage limit setting process] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the setting process performed by the setting unit 124. The setting unit 124 judges whether the amount of 500 yen coins in storage is equal to or greater than the reference number of 500 yen coins (80 coins) (S901). If the amount of 500 yen coins in storage is equal to or greater than the reference number (YES in S901), the setting unit 124 sets the basic number of 500 yen coins in the upper limit number of coins that can be used to an initial value (2 coins) (S902). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the initial value in a basic number storage area for 500 yen coins provided in the RAM. Then, the setting unit 124 performs the processes from S905 onwards.

[0072] On the other hand, when the amount of 500 yen coins in storage is less than the reference number (NO in S901), the setting unit 124 judges whether or not the subtraction value obtained by subtracting the current amount in storage from the reference number is greater than the initial value of the base number (S903). When the subtraction value is greater than the initial value of the base number (YES in S903), the setting unit 124 sets the base number to the subtraction value (S904). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the subtraction value in a base number storage area for 500 yen coins provided in the RAM. At this time, when an initial value is stored in the base number storage area for 500 yen coins, the setting unit 124 changes the base number from the initial value to the subtraction value. On the other hand, when the subtraction value is equal to or less than the initial value of the base number (NO in S903), the setting unit 124 performs the processes from S902 onward.

[0073] Thereafter, the setting unit 124 performs similar processing for 100 yen, 50 yen, 10 yen, 5 yen, and 1 yen coins. That is, the setting unit 124 judges whether the amount of 100 yen coins in storage is equal to or greater than the reference number of 100 yen coins (150 coins) (S905). If the amount of 100 yen coins in storage is equal to or greater than the reference number (YES in S905), the setting unit 124 sets the basic number of 100 yen coins in the upper limit number of coins that can be used to an initial value (10 coins) (S906). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the initial value in a basic number storage area for 100 yen coins provided in the RAM. Then, the setting unit 124 performs the processes from S909 onwards.

[0074] On the other hand, if the amount of 100 yen coins in storage is less than the reference number (NO in S905), the setting unit 124 judges whether the subtraction value obtained by subtracting the current amount of coins from the reference number is greater than the initial value of the base number (S907). If the subtraction value is greater than the initial value of the base number (YES in S907), the setting unit 124 sets the base number to the subtraction value (S908). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the subtraction value in a base number storage area for 100 yen coins provided in the RAM. At this time, if an initial value is stored in the base number storage area for 100 yen coins, the setting unit 124 changes the base number from the initial value to the subtraction value. On the other hand, if the subtraction value is equal to or less than the initial value of the base number (NO in S907), the setting unit 124 performs the processes in S906 and thereafter.

[0075] The setting unit 124 judges whether the amount of 50 yen coins in storage is equal to or greater than the reference number of 50 yen coins (80 coins) (S909). If the amount of 50 yen coins in storage is equal to or greater than the reference number (YES in S909), the setting unit 124 sets the basic number of 50 yen coins in the upper limit number of coins that can be used to an initial value (4 coins) (S910). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the initial value in a basic number storage area for 50 yen coins provided in the RAM. Then, the setting unit 124 performs the processes from S913 onwards.

[0076] On the other hand, if the amount of 50 yen coins in the inventory is less than the reference amount (NO in S909), It is determined whether the subtraction value obtained by subtracting the current inventory amount from the reference number is greater than the initial value of the base number (S911). If the subtraction value is greater than the initial value of the base number (YES in S911), the setting unit 124 sets the base number to the subtraction value (S912). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the subtraction value in a basic number storage area for 50 yen coins provided in the RAM. At this time, if an initial value is stored in the basic number storage area for 50 yen coins, the setting unit 124 changes the base number from the initial value to the subtraction value. On the other hand, if the subtraction value is equal to or less than the initial value of the base number (NO in S911), the setting unit 124 performs the processes from S910 onwards.

[0077] The setting unit 124 judges whether the amount of 10 yen coins in storage is equal to or greater than the reference number of 10 yen coins (150 coins) (S913). If the amount of 10 yen coins in storage is equal to or greater than the reference number (YES in S913), the setting unit 124 sets the basic number of 10 yen coins in the upper limit number of coins that can be used to an initial value (10 coins) (S914). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the initial value in a basic number storage area for 10 yen coins provided in the RAM. Then, the setting unit 124 performs the processes from S917 onwards.

[0078] On the other hand, if the amount of 10 yen coins in storage is less than the reference number (NO in S913), the setting unit 124 judges whether the subtraction value obtained by subtracting the current amount of coins from the reference number is greater than the initial value of the base number (S915). If the subtraction value is greater than the initial value of the base number (YES in S915), the setting unit 124 sets the base number to the subtraction value (S916). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the subtraction value in a base number storage area for 10 yen coins provided in the RAM. At this time, if an initial value is stored in the base number storage area for 10 yen coins, the setting unit 124 changes the base number from the initial value to the subtraction value. On the other hand, if the subtraction value is equal to or less than the initial value of the base number (NO in S915), the setting unit 124 performs the processes from S914 onwards.

[0079] The setting unit 124 judges whether the amount of 5 yen coins in storage is equal to or greater than the reference number of 5 yen coins (80 coins) (S917). If the amount of 5 yen coins in storage is equal to or greater than the reference number (YES in S917), the setting unit 124 sets the basic number of 5 yen coins in the upper limit number of coins used to an initial value (4 coins) (S918). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the initial value in a basic number storage area for 5 yen coins provided in the RAM. Then, the setting unit 124 performs the processes from S921 onwards.

[0080] On the other hand, if the amount of 5 yen coins in storage is less than the reference number (NO in S917), the setting unit 124 judges whether the subtraction value obtained by subtracting the current amount in storage from the reference number is greater than the initial value of the base number (S919). If the subtraction value is greater than the initial value of the base number (YES in S919), the setting unit 124 sets the base number to the subtraction value (S920). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the subtraction value in a base number storage area for 5 yen coins provided in the RAM. At this time, if an initial value is stored in the base number storage area for 5 yen coins, the setting unit 124 changes the base number from the initial value to the subtraction value. On the other hand, if the subtraction value is equal to or less than the initial value of the base number (NO in S919), the setting unit 124 performs the processes in S918 and thereafter.

[0081] The setting unit 124 judges whether the amount of 1 yen coins in storage is equal to or greater than the reference number of 1 yen coins (150 coins) (S921). If the amount of 1 yen coins in storage is equal to or greater than the reference number (YES in S921), the setting unit 124 sets the basic number of 1 yen coins in the upper limit number of coins that can be used to an initial value (10 coins) (S922). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the initial value in a basic number storage area for 1 yen coins provided in the RAM. Then, the setting unit 124 performs the processes from S925 onwards.

[0082] On the other hand, if the amount of 1 yen coins in storage is less than the reference number (NO in S921), the setting unit 124 judges whether the subtraction value obtained by subtracting the current amount of coins from the reference number is greater than the initial value of the base number (S923). If the subtraction value is greater than the initial value of the base number (YES in S923), the setting unit 124 sets the base number to the subtraction value (S924). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the subtraction value in a base number storage area for 1 yen coins provided in the RAM. At this time, if an initial value is stored in the base number storage area for 1 yen coins, the setting unit 124 changes the base number from the initial value to the subtraction value. On the other hand, if the subtraction value is equal to or less than the initial value of the base number (NO in S922), the setting unit 124 performs the processes from S922 onwards.

[0083] After the process of S922 or S924, the setting unit 124 calculates the total number by adding the values ​​stored in the basic number storage areas of 500 yen, 100 yen, 50 yen, 10 yen, 5 yen, and 1 yen coins, and sets the total number as the upper limit number of coins to be used (S925). For example, the setting unit 124 stores the calculated total number in the upper limit number of coins storage area provided in the RAM. At this time, if the values ​​stored in the basic number storage areas of 500 yen, 100 yen, 50 yen, 10 yen, 5 yen, and 1 yen coins have been changed from their initial values, the setting unit 124 changes the upper limit number of coins to the changed upper limit number of coins from the initial value. Thereafter, the setting unit 124 performs the processes from S901 onwards.

[0084] [Settlement process] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the settlement process performed by the coin control unit 120. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on display unit 112. As shown in FIG. The coin control unit 120 repeatedly executes the settlement process at preset fixed time intervals (for example, every 1 millisecond).

[0085] First, the process control unit 125 judges whether the total number of inserted coins is greater than the upper limit number of coins to be used (S1001). For example, the process control unit 125 judges whether the total number of inserted coins is greater than the upper limit number of coins to be used stored in the upper limit number of coins to be used storage area. If the total number of inserted coins is greater than the upper limit number of coins to be used (YES in S1001), the process control unit 125 identifies the denominations of 500 yen, 100 yen, 50 yen, 10 yen, 5 yen, and 1 yen coins whose number of inserted coins is greater than the base number (S1002). The process control unit 125 determines whether the number of inserted coins of 500 yen, 100 yen, 50 yen, 10 yen, 5 yen, and 1 yen coins is greater than the base number stored in the respective base number storage areas.

[0086] Then, for a denomination in which the number of inserted coins is greater than the base number, the process control unit 125 returns the number of coins exceeding the base number (S1003). For example, when the base number of 500 yen coins is stored as two in the base number storage area and three 500 yen coins are inserted, the process control unit 125 returns one 500 yen coin.

[0087] When returning the coins in S1003, the display control unit 126 causes the display unit 112 to display a message indicating that the total number of inserted coins exceeds the upper limit number of coins to be used and therefore the coins are returned (S1004). For example, when the upper limit number of coins to be used is 46 and the total number of inserted coins is 47, the display control unit 126 causes the display unit 112 to display, for example, "The total number of inserted coins exceeds the upper limit number of coins to be used and therefore the coins are returned," as shown in FIG. 11. The display control unit 126 may also cause the display unit 112 to display the upper limit number of coins to be used, which is the total number of coins, as shown in FIG. 11. The display control unit 126 may also cause the display unit 112 to display the basic number of coins for each denomination in the upper limit number of coins to be used and to display a message indicating that the coins inserted whose number exceeded the basic number were returned, as shown in FIG. 11. After S1004, the process control unit 125 performs the processes from S1001 onwards.

[0088] On the other hand, if the total number of inserted coins is not greater than the upper limit number of coins that can be used (NO in S1001), the process control unit 125 judges whether the amount inserted is equal to or greater than the settlement amount (S1005). If the amount inserted is not equal to or greater than the settlement amount (NO in S1005), the process control unit 125 performs the process from S1001 onwards. On the other hand, if the amount inserted is equal to or greater than the settlement amount (YES in S1005), the process control unit 125 judges whether the settlement button has been pressed (S1006). If the settlement button has not been pressed (NO in S1006), the process control unit 125 performs the process from S1001 onwards. On the other hand, if the settlement button has been pressed (YES in S1006), the process control unit 125 completes the settlement process (S1007). For example, if the total amount of deposits exceeds the amount of the transaction, the process control unit 125 executes a withdrawal process and pays out the difference in currency obtained by subtracting the amount of the transaction from the amount of deposits as change.

[0089] As described above, the currency processing device 10 includes the storage 106z that stores currency by denomination, the memory unit 130 that stores the upper limit number of currency that indicates the upper limit of the number of currency that can be used, the setting unit 124 and the processing control unit 125 as an example of a settlement control unit that controls the settlement process, the display unit 112 that displays a screen for the operator, and the display control unit 126 that controls the display of the screen. The setting unit 124 and the processing control unit 125 change the upper limit number of currency depending on the storage status of the currency in the storage 106z, perform the settlement process based on the post-change upper limit number that is the post-change upper limit number of currency, and return the currency if it is used in excess of the post-change upper limit number during the settlement process (S1003). Furthermore, the display control unit 126 causes the display unit 112 to display, at the time of return, that the currency was returned because it was used in excess of the post-change upper limit number (S1004).

[0090] The currency handling device 10 configured as described above displays the reason for return on the display unit 112 when returning currency that has been inserted in excess of the upper limit for use, so that the customer can understand why the inserted currency has been returned. Therefore, the currency handling device 10 can discourage customers from re-inserting the returned currency. Thus, the currency handling device 10 can improve customer usability. Note that in the processing of S1004, it may be the display unit of the terminal device 20 that causes the display control unit 126 to display the message that the currency has been returned because the total number of inserted currency exceeded the upper limit for use.

[0091] As explained in the process of S1004 above, when returning the currency, the display control unit 126 causes the display unit 112 to display the changed upper limit number of bills. As a result, according to the currency processing device 10, even if the upper limit number of bills that can be used has changed, the customer can easily understand the number of bills that can be used, thereby improving usability for the customer.

[0092] The memory unit 130 also stores the upper limit number of coins to be used as the total number of all denominations, the setting unit 124 and the process control unit 125 set the total number of coins as the post-change upper limit number and determine whether the total number of coins inserted has exceeded the post-change upper limit number, and the display control unit 126, at the time of return, causes the display unit 112 to display a message to the effect that the total number of coins inserted has exceeded the post-change upper limit number. Therefore, the currency processing device 10 can improve usability for customers. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 1... settlement system, 10... currency processing device, 20... terminal device, 100... coin processing machine, 112... display unit, 120... coin control unit, 123... inventory grasping unit, 124... setting unit, 125... processing control unit, 126... display control unit, 200... banknote processing machine

Claims

1. A storage facility for storing currency by denomination; A storage unit that stores an upper limit of the number of bills that can be used, the upper limit being an upper limit of the number of bills that can be used; A settlement control unit that controls a settlement process; a display unit that displays a screen to an operator; A display control unit that controls display of the screen; Equipped with the settlement control unit varies the upper limit number of bills to be used in accordance with the storage status of the currency in the repository, performs the settlement process based on the upper limit number after the change, which is the upper limit number of bills to be used after the change, and returns bills if the upper limit number of bills is used in excess of the upper limit number after the change in the settlement process; The display control unit, at the time of the return, causes the display unit to display a message indicating that the currency was returned because the currency was used in excess of the upper limit number after the fluctuation. A currency processing device.

2. The display control unit causes the display unit to display the changed upper limit number at the time of the return. The currency processing device according to claim 1.

3. The storage unit stores the upper limit number of bills to be used for each denomination, The settlement control unit sets the post-change upper limit number for each denomination, and determines whether or not the post-change upper limit number has been exceeded for each inserted denomination, The display control unit, at the time of the return, causes the display unit to display a message indicating that the denomination used exceeded the upper limit number after the fluctuation and the return was made. The currency processing device according to claim 1.

4. The memory unit stores the upper limit number of bills to be used as a total number of bills of all denominations, The settlement control unit sets a total number of coins as the post-change upper limit number, and determines whether or not the total number of coins inserted exceeds the post-change upper limit number; The display control unit, at the time of the return, causes the display unit to display a message indicating that the total number of inserted bills has exceeded the upper limit number after the change. The currency processing device according to claim 1.

5. A storage facility for storing currency by denomination; A storage unit that stores an upper limit of the number of bills that can be used, the upper limit being an upper limit of the number of bills that can be used; A settlement control unit that controls a settlement process; a display unit that displays a screen to an operator; A display control unit that controls display of the screen; Equipped with the settlement control unit varies the upper limit number of bills to be used in accordance with the storage status of the currency in the repository, performs the settlement process based on the upper limit number after the change, which is the upper limit number of bills to be used after the change, and returns bills if the upper limit number of bills is used in excess of the upper limit number after the change in the settlement process; The display control unit, at the time of the return, causes the display unit to display a message indicating that the currency was returned because the currency was used in excess of the upper limit number after the fluctuation. A settlement system characterized by:

Images