Medium treatment method and medium treatment system

Abstract

To improve convenience in a system which can reserve a transaction including medium treatment by a medium treatment apparatus.SOLUTION: A medium treatment method includes: a step (S12) of receiving, by a server 11, a reservation of a transaction including medium treatment by a medium treatment apparatus 2, which has been set by a customer; a step (S17) of starting medium treatment corresponding to the transaction related to the reservation by the medium treatment apparatus based on first information related to a relative position between the customer and the medium treatment apparatus; and a step (S110) of completing the transaction related to the reservation by allowing the customer to treat a medium in the medium treatment apparatus by the medium treatment apparatus based on second information related to the relative position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The technology disclosed herein relates to a media processing method and a media processing system. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a conventional cash processing device. The cash processing device is installed in a back office of a commercial facility. The cash processing device deposits sales proceeds and dispenses change. An operator can reserve a transaction for the cash processing device. For example, the operator reserves a transaction to dispense change before the store's opening hours. The cash processing device dispenses cash in advance with the shutter of the dispensing port closed according to the date and time set by the reservation. The cash processing device opens the shutter by authenticating the operator who made the reservation. The operator who made the reservation can receive the cash that has already been dispensed.

[0003] Patent Document 2 describes a conventional management device. The management device manages waiting times for ATMs (Automatic Teller Machines). A user can make a reservation to use the ATM using a mobile terminal. The management device calculates the estimated time that the user will arrive at the ATM based on location information of the mobile terminal. The management device also calculates the user's waiting time based on the ATM usage schedule of other users who have made reservations and the calculated estimated arrival time, and notifies the mobile terminal. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6881195 [Patent Document 2] JP 2017-10211 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] An operator can reserve a date and time for a transaction to be performed in a conventional cash processing device. There is a demand for improving the convenience of such reservation transactions.

[0006] The technology disclosed herein improves convenience in a system that allows reservations for transactions that include media processing by a media processing device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present disclosure relates to a media processing method, which includes the following steps.

[0008] A reservation for a transaction including media processing by a media processing device, the reservation being set by a customer, is accepted by a server; initiating, by the media processing device, media processing corresponding to the transaction related to the reservation based on first information relating to a relative position between the customer and the media processing device; The media processing device completes the transaction associated with the reservation by allowing the customer to handle media at the media processing device based on second information related to the relative location.

[0009] The media processing device initiates a media processing operation corresponding to the transaction related to the reservation based on the location of the customer who made the reservation. For example, the media processing device may initiate a media processing operation when the relative positions of the customer and the media processing device become closer than a preset first distance.

[0010] The media processing device also allows the customer to handle the media on the media processing device based on second information related to the relative position. The customer can handle the media on the media processing device. Handling the media includes at least one of the customer removing the media dispensed by the media processing device and the customer inserting the media into the media processing device. The customer can complete the transaction using the media processing device smoothly and quickly. Furthermore, because the transaction of a customer who has made a reservation is completed smoothly and quickly, the time that the customer occupies the media processing device is short. The next customer can quickly begin a transaction using the media processing device. The turnover rate of usage of the media processing device is increased.

[0011] The media processing device initiates media processing based on the location of the customer who made the reservation. The customer who made the reservation is at least close to the media processing device. The customer is likely to operate the media processing device that has started media processing. It is unlikely that the media processing device will be left unoperated. The convenience of a system that allows reservations for transactions is improved.

[0012] The second information may be acquired at a later time than the first information.

[0013] After the media processing device starts media processing based on the first information, the media processing device allows the customer to handle the media on the media processing device based on the second information. Because media processing has started before the customer handles the media, the customer can complete the transaction using the media processing device smoothly and quickly.

[0014] The relative positions of the customer and the media processing device in the second information may be closer than the relative positions of the customer and the media processing device in the first information.

[0015] The media processing device starts media processing when a customer who has made a reservation approaches the device. The media processing is then completed by the time the customer arrives at the location of the media processing device. The customer can handle the media at the media processing device immediately after arriving.

[0016] The transaction is a withdrawal transaction, The media processing device may, in the withdrawal transaction, dispense money within the device to the outside of the device.

[0017] A customer who has made a reservation for a withdrawal transaction can receive the money that has been dispensed from the medium processing device.

[0018] The medium processing device may start transporting currency from within the device to outside based on the first information.

[0019] When the customer who made the reservation arrives at the location of the media processing device, all of the money to be dispensed has been dispensed outside the device. The customer does not need to stand in front of the media processing device and wait for the media processing device to dispense the money outside the device.

[0020] the medium processing device has a holding unit that holds the currency to be dispensed outside the device, and a shutter that opens and closes an outlet of the holding unit; The media processing device may close the shutter while the coins are being transported to the holding section, and open the shutter when allowing the customer to remove the coins from the holding section based on the second information.

[0021] Even if the currency is transported to the holding section, the shutter is closed and customers other than the customer who made the reservation cannot remove the currency from the holding section. When the customer who made the reservation arrives at the location of the media processing device, the shutter opens. The customer can remove the currency from the holding section. In other words, the customer is permitted to handle media.

[0022] The transaction is a currency exchange transaction, In the currency exchange transaction, the medium processing device may take in the customer's currency into the device, and pay out currency within the device that is equivalent to the taken in currency.

[0023] A customer who has made a reservation for a currency exchange transaction can receive the currency that has already been dispensed by simply inserting the currency to be exchanged into the medium processing device.

[0024] the medium processing device has an insertion unit that takes in money into the device, a dispensing unit that holds money to be dispensed out of the device, and a shutter that opens and closes an outlet of the dispensing unit; the medium processing device starts transporting the currency within the device to the dispensing unit based on the first information, and closes the shutter while the currency is being transported to the dispensing unit; The media processing device may allow the customer to insert coins into the device through the insertion section based on the second information, and after the coins have been inserted, open the shutter to allow the customer to remove the coins from the dispensing section.

[0025] When the customer who made the reservation arrives at the location of the media processing device, all of the currency to be dispensed has been dispensed outside the device. The customer can remove the currency from the dispensing section immediately after inserting the currency to be exchanged into the media processing device. The customer does not have to wait in front of the media processing device for the media processing device to dispense the currency outside the device.

[0026] In addition, because the shutter is closed, customers other than the customer who made the reservation cannot remove money from the dispensing section. When the customer who made the reservation inserts money, the shutter opens. Security of the media processing device is ensured.

[0027] The transaction is a deposit transaction, The media processing device may take the customer's currency into the device during the deposit transaction.

[0028] A customer who has made a reservation for a deposit transaction can insert the currency to be deposited into the media processing device as soon as he or she arrives at the location of the media processing device.

[0029] the reservation includes a scheduled time when the customer will handle currency at the media processing device; The media processing device may start media processing corresponding to the transaction related to the reservation before the scheduled time.

[0030] The media processing device starts media processing based on both the location information of the customer who made the reservation and the scheduled time of the reservation, allowing the media processing device to start media processing at the appropriate time.

[0031] When the media processing device performs media processing relating to a second customer not related to the reservation before the scheduled time, the media processing device may perform the media processing in a second mode that shortens the time required for the media processing compared to normal mode.

[0032] The media processing in the second mode quickly finishes the media processing for the second customer. The media processing device can execute the media processing related to the reservation at the scheduled time.

[0033] In the second mode, the media processing device may perform media processing operations at a higher speed than in the normal mode.

[0034] Performing operations related to media processing at high speeds shortens the time required for media processing. Operations related to media processing include, for example, opening and closing a shutter at high speed or increasing the media transport speed.

[0035] Furthermore, performing operations relating to media processing at high speed also includes shortening the wait time for a customer operation, such as waiting for the customer to insert coins, compared to the normal mode.

[0036] In the second mode, the media processing device may reduce the number of display items shown on a display to the second customer compared to the normal mode.

[0037] Reducing the number of display items makes customer operations smoother, and therefore reduces the time required for media processing. The display items that are reduced may be items that are not directly related to the execution of media processing by the media processing device. Examples of display items that are reduced include display items that prompt the customer to input the purpose of the transaction, such as an item that prompts the customer to select the purpose of a deposit transaction from options such as "deposit of store sales proceeds" or "other deposits."

[0038] The media processing device may be configured to place more restrictions on the types of processing permitted for the second customer in the second mode than in the normal mode.

[0039] When the content of the processing permitted for the second customer is restricted, the time required for processing the media of the second customer is shortened. For example, the content of the processing may be restricted from the second customer making two or more consecutive transactions by omitting to confirm with the second customer whether or not the next transaction is required after one transaction is completed. Other examples of the content of the processing may include reducing the upper limit of the number of additional deposits compared to the normal mode, or reducing the maximum number of withdrawals compared to the normal mode.

[0040] The media processing device may limit customers who perform a transaction at the scheduled time to only those customers related to the reservation.

[0041] A customer who has made a reservation can carry out a transaction using the media processing device at the scheduled time.

[0042] If the customer's transaction related to the reservation is not completed by the scheduled time, the media processing device may cancel the transaction related to the reservation and remove the restriction.

[0043] If a customer who made a reservation does not arrive at the media processing device by the scheduled time and the transaction related to the reservation is not completed, customers other than the customer who made the reservation are restricted from using the media processing device. In this case, the media processing device cancels the transaction related to the reservation and lifts the restrictions, allowing customers other than the customer who made the reservation to use the media processing device. This makes the operation of the media processing device more efficient.

[0044] The time period after the scheduled time has elapsed until the reservation transaction is cancelled may be preset.

[0045] The first information and the second information may be acquired by utilizing a communication function of a mobile terminal held by the customer.

[0046] Using the communication functions of a mobile terminal makes it possible to obtain with high accuracy the relative position between the customer carrying the mobile terminal and the media processing device.

[0047] The first information is acquired by utilizing a communication function of a mobile terminal held by the customer, The second information may be obtained using a sensor included in the media processing device.

[0048] The first information relating to the customer's approach to the media processing device is obtained with high accuracy using the communication function of the mobile device, and the second information relating to the customer's arrival at the location of the media processing device is obtained with high accuracy using a sensor installed in the media processing device.

[0049] the media processing device has a controller that controls the media processing device, The media processing may be initiated by the controller based on the controller obtaining information regarding a transaction related to the reservation from the server and obtaining the first information from the mobile terminal.

[0050] The media processing system disclosed herein comprises: a media processing device for executing transactions including media processing; a server that accepts reservations set by a customer for transactions to be executed by the media processing device; the media processing device initiates media processing corresponding to the transaction related to the reservation based on first information related to a relative position between the customer and the media processing device; The media processing device completes the transaction for the reservation by allowing the customer to handle media at the media processing device based on second information related to the relative location.

[0051] Because the media processing device starts the reserved media processing based on the customer's location information, the customer can smoothly and quickly complete a transaction using the media processing device. In addition, the media processing device is less likely to be left unoperated, improving the convenience of the system that allows reservations for transactions. Effect of the Invention

[0052] The above media processing method and system can improve the usability of a system that allows for the reservation of transactions. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0053] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a media processing system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows a media processing device. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a media processing device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows the banknote unit. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the bill unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows a coin unit. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of the coin unit. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows a coin bar unit. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of the coin rolling unit. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 shows the check unit. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of the check unit. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 shows the steps of the media processing method. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 shows the steps of the media processing method. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the control of the media processing device. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 shows a drop box. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0054] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a media processing system and a media processing method will be described with reference to the drawings. The media processing system and the media processing method described here are merely examples.

[0055] (Media Processing System) FIG 1 illustrates a media processing system 1. The media processing system 1 is a system that enables a financial institution to provide transactions, including media processing, to customers using a media processing device 2 installed in a store 12. The financial institution is, for example, a bank. The financial institution is not limited to a bank. The transactions provided to customers include at least deposit transactions, withdrawal transactions, and currency exchange transactions.

[0056] A deposit transaction is a transaction in which money is deposited into a customer's account. Deposit transactions include deposit transactions that involve the storage of currency in the media processing device 2 and deposit transactions that involve the processing of a check by the media processing device 2. A withdrawal transaction is a transaction in which the media processing device 2 pays out currency. Withdrawal transactions include withdrawal transactions in which money is withdrawn from a customer's account and withdrawal transactions that involve the processing of a check by the media processing device 2. A currency exchange transaction is a transaction in which the media processing device 2 stores currency and pays out currency of an equivalent value to the stored currency.

[0057] Media processing system 1 provides customers with a service that enables them to reserve a transaction. A customer can reserve a transaction to be performed using the media processing device 2 before going to the store 12. Media processing system 1 offers customers the advantage of being able to smoothly perform a transaction using the media processing device 2. Media processing system 1 also offers financial institutions the advantage of reducing the time the media processing device 2 is occupied, improving business efficiency.

[0058] The media processing system 1 includes a server 11. The server 11 manages transaction reservations. The server 11 is connected to the media processing device 2 via a wide area network 15. The wide area network 15 is, for example, the Internet. As will be described later, the server 11 has a function of accepting transaction reservations from customers and a function of providing the accepted transaction reservations to the media processing device 2.

[0059] The media processing system 1 includes a media processing device 2. The media processing device 2 is a device that processes media. Media includes at least one of banknotes, coins, and checks. The media processing system 1 illustrated here is capable of processing all of banknotes, coins, and checks, as will be described later. The media processing device 2 is operated by customers of the financial institution. A staff member at the store 12, for example a teller, may also operate the media processing device 2 to assist the customer.

[0060] The media processing device 2 is located in a store 12 of a financial institution. The media processing system 1 in Fig. 1 includes two stores 12: a first store 121 and a second store 122. There is no limit to the number of stores 12 included in the media processing system 1. Below, when there is no need to distinguish between the first store 121 and the second store 122, they will simply be referred to as stores 12.

[0061] Two media processing devices 2 are installed in the store 12. There is no limit to the number of media processing devices 2 that can be installed in the store 12. The media processing devices 2 are connected to a local area network (LAN) 13 that is set up within the store 12. The LAN 13 includes wired LAN and wireless LAN. The media processing devices 2 are connected to a wide area network 15 via the LAN 13. Details of the media processing devices 2 will be described later.

[0062] A tablet 14 is connected to the LAN 13. The tablet 14 is an information providing terminal. The tablet 14 is used by a staff member of the store 12. The staff member can obtain various information through the tablet 14.

[0063] A customer terminal 16 is connected to the wide area network 15. A customer can use the customer terminal 16 to make a reservation for a transaction.

[0064] The customer terminal 16 has (1) a data communication function for transmitting a reservation for a transaction to the server 11, and (2) a function for providing the media processing device 2 with customer location information.

[0065] A smartphone or a PC (Personal Computer) has the function (1) described above. The smartphone or PC is an example of a customer terminal 16. The smartphone can transmit a transaction reservation to the server 11 through a mobile phone base station 17 and a wide area network 15. The smartphone and the PC can also transmit a transaction reservation to the server 11 by using a communication function to connect to the wide area network 15 through short-range wireless communication, for example, Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0066] Furthermore, the smartphone can provide location information to the media processing device 2 according to (2) above using a GPS (Global Positioning System) function and a communication function. The communication function of the smartphone in this case is not limited to communication with mobile phone base stations 17, but also includes short-range wireless communication. Short-range wireless communication includes Wi-Fi. The smartphone can also provide location information of the customer, i.e., the smartphone carried by the customer, to the media processing device 2 by communicating with the media processing device 2 using Bluetooth (registered trademark), for example. The smartphone can also provide information to the media processing device 2 that the smartphone carried by the customer is in close proximity to the media processing device 2 by communicating with the media processing device 2 using NFC (Near Field Communication). Bluetooth and NFC are included in short-range wireless communication. An electronic tag that transmits Bluetooth signals can achieve the function of (2) above by communicating directly or indirectly with the media processing device 2.

[0067] The customer terminal 16 that realizes the functions (1) and (2) above is not limited to a single device. A customer may, for example, make a reservation for a transaction using a PC, and then visit the store 12 carrying a smartphone. As described below, the smartphone provides location information to the media processing device 2, allowing the customer to execute the transaction using the media processing device 2. Also, a customer may, for example, make a reservation for a transaction using a smartphone, and then visit the store 12 carrying an electronic tag. The electronic tag provides location information to the media processing device 2, allowing the customer to execute the transaction using the media processing device 2.

[0068] (Media Processing Device) Fig. 2 shows the external appearance of the media processing device 2. Fig. 3 is a block diagram of the media processing device 2. The media processing device 2 performs media processing related to transactions. Media that can be processed by the media processing device 2 include currency and checks. Currency includes paper money and coins. The media processing device 2 shown in Figs. 2 and 3 is merely an example, and the media processing device 2 may be a device that processes only paper money, for example.

[0069] The media processing device 2 includes a banknote unit 3. The banknote unit 3 processes banknotes, more precisely, processes loose banknotes.

[0070] The media processing device 2 is equipped with a coin unit 4. The coin unit 4 processes coins, more precisely, loose coins. Note that in the media processing device 2, the coin unit 4 may be omitted.

[0071] The media processing device 2 is equipped with a coin roll unit 5. The coin roll unit 5 performs the process of dispensing coin rolls. A coin roll is a package of multiple loose coins stacked together. Note that the coin roll unit 5 may be omitted from the media processing device 2.

[0072] The media processing device 2 is equipped with a check unit 6. The check unit 6 processes checks. Note that the check unit 6 may be omitted from the media processing device 2.

[0073] The media processing device 2 is equipped with a display 21. The display 21 provides information to a customer operating the media processing device 2. The display 21 may be a touch panel display. A customer can use the display 21 to perform operations.

[0074] The media processing device 2 is equipped with a PIN (Personal Identification Number) pad 22. A customer of the media processing device enters PIN information using the PIN pad 22. The PIN information is, for example, numbers, symbols, and alphabets.

[0075] The media processing device 2 is equipped with a storage unit 23. The storage unit 23 stores various types of information necessary for the operation of the media processing device 2.

[0076] The media processing device 2 is equipped with a card reader 24. The card reader 24 reads a customer's card, for example a cash card. The media processing device 2 is equipped with a code reader 25. The code reader 25 reads barcodes or two-dimensional codes. As will be described later, the code reader 25 may use a camera to read a two-dimensional code, for example a QR code (registered trademark), displayed on the screen of a customer's smartphone in order to identify the customer who has made a reservation for a transaction.

[0077] The media processing device 2 is equipped with a first printer 26. The first printer 26 prints transaction details on a receipt. The media processing device 2 is equipped with a second printer 27. The second printer 27 prints transaction details on paper.

[0078] The media processing device 2 is equipped with a communication unit 28. The communication unit 28 communicates with the server 11 via the LAN 13 and the wide area network 15.

[0079] The media processing device 2 is equipped with a short-range communication unit 29. The short-range communication unit 29 communicates with the customer terminal 16 using short-range wireless communication.

[0080] The media processing device 2 is equipped with a controller 210. The controller 210 includes at least a processor, a memory, and an I / O circuit. The processor executes programs. The memory stores programs and data for the operation of the media processing device 2. The memory is, for example, a random access memory (RAM) and / or a read only memory (ROM). The I / O circuit inputs and outputs electrical signals between the controller 210 and devices connected to the controller 210. The media processing device 2 operates when the controller 210 outputs control signals to the devices.

[0081] (Banknote unit) Fig. 4 shows the banknote unit 3. Fig. 5 is a block diagram of the banknote unit 3. The processing of loose banknotes performed by the banknote unit 3 includes at least one of a banknote deposit process, a banknote withdrawal process, and a currency exchange process. In a deposit process, the banknote unit 3 takes in banknotes into the unit. In a withdrawal process, the banknote unit 3 dispenses banknotes to the outside of the unit. In a currency exchange process, the banknote unit 3 performs at least one of taking in banknotes into the unit and dispensing banknotes to the outside of the unit.

[0082] The banknote unit 3 has a deposit section 31. The deposit section 31 feeds banknotes into the unit.

[0083] The banknote unit 3 has a dispensing section 32. The dispensing section 32 dispenses banknotes to the outside of the unit. The dispensing section 32 is an example of a holding section or dispensing section that holds currency to be dispensed to the device. The dispensing section 32 has a shutter 322 that opens and closes the outlet 321. When the shutter 322 is closed, the customer cannot remove the banknotes dispensed to the dispensing section 32. When the shutter 322 is open, the customer can remove the banknotes dispensed to the dispensing section 32.

[0084] The banknote unit 3 has a stack bin 33. The stack bin 33 stores banknotes. The stack bin 33 has a second shutter 332 that opens and closes a second outlet 331. When the second shutter 332 opens the second outlet 331, a customer can remove the banknotes stored in the stack bin 33 through the second outlet 331. As will be described later, the stack bin 33 may store banknotes when the banknote unit 3 executes media processing related to a reserved transaction.

[0085] The banknote unit 3 has an escrow section 34. The escrow section 34 stores banknotes and feeds the stored banknotes.

[0086] The banknote unit 3 has a recognition unit 35. The recognition unit 35 recognizes banknotes to be deposited or dispensed. By identifying banknotes, the recognition unit 35 obtains information such as currency, denomination, serial number, authenticity, etc.

[0087] The banknote unit 3 has a storage unit 36. The storage unit 36 ​​stores banknotes to be deposited. The storage unit 36 ​​feeds banknotes to be dispensed. The storage unit 36 ​​includes a plurality of cassettes. The plurality of cassettes stores banknotes, for example, by denomination.

[0088] The banknote unit 3 has a transport unit 37. The transport unit 37 transports banknotes one by one. The transport unit 37 has transport paths that connect a plurality of devices.

[0089] The banknote unit 3 has a banknote unit controller 38. The banknote unit controller 38 includes at least a processor, a memory, and an I / O circuit. The banknote unit controller 38 outputs control signals to devices based on control signals from the controller 210 of the media processing device 2, causing the banknote unit 3 to operate.

[0090] The banknote unit 3 executes the following media processing during a deposit transaction. The deposit section 31 sends the deposited banknotes into the unit. The recognition section 35 recognizes the banknotes. The transport section 37 transports normal banknotes to the storage section 36. The storage section 36 stores the normal banknotes. The transport section 37 transports rejected banknotes to the dispensing section 32. The rejected banknotes are returned to the customer via the dispensing section 32. Note that during a deposit transaction, the transport section 37 may transport normal banknotes to the escrow section 34. The escrow section 34 temporarily stores the banknotes. When the customer confirms the deposit transaction, the escrow section 34 dispenses the banknotes. The dispensed banknotes are stored in the storage section 36. When the customer cancels the deposit transaction, the banknotes dispensed by the escrow section 34 are transported to the dispensing section 32. The customer confirms the deposit or withdrawal transaction by operating the display 21 or the PIN pad 22 .

[0091] The banknote unit 3 executes the following media processing during a withdrawal transaction. The storage unit 36 ​​feeds out the banknotes to be dispensed. The recognition unit 35 recognizes the banknotes. The transport unit 37 transports normal banknotes to the dispensing unit 32. The shutter 322 of the dispensing unit 32 closes the outlet 321. The transport unit 37 transports abnormal banknotes to the escrow unit 34. The escrow unit 34 stores the abnormal banknotes. When all the banknotes to be dispensed have been transported to the dispensing unit 32, the shutter 322 opens the outlet 321, except in the case of a reservation process described below. After the customer removes the banknotes from the dispensing unit 32, the escrow unit 34 feeds the banknotes. The banknotes dispensed by the escrow unit 34 are stored in the storage unit 36.

[0092] During a currency exchange transaction, the banknote unit 3 executes media processing that combines the media processing during a deposit transaction and the media processing during a withdrawal transaction described above. The deposit unit 31 sends deposited banknotes into the unit. After recognition by the recognition unit 35, the storage unit 36 ​​stores the banknotes. The storage unit 36 ​​feeds out banknotes to be withdrawn. After recognition by the recognition unit 35, the banknotes are transported to the withdrawal unit 32. During a currency exchange transaction, the banknote unit 3 may take in banknotes into the unit, while the coin unit 4 or the coin bar unit 5 may dispense coins or coin bars out of the unit. During a currency exchange transaction, the coin unit 4 may take in coins into the unit, while the banknote unit 3 may dispense banknotes out of the unit.

[0093] (coin unit) FIG. 6 shows the coin unit 4. FIG. 7 is a block diagram of the coin unit 4. The processing of loose banknotes performed by the coin unit 4 includes at least one of a coin deposit process, a coin withdrawal process, and an exchange process. In the deposit process, the coin unit 4 takes in coins into the unit. In the withdrawal process, the coin unit 4 dispenses coins to the outside of the unit. In the exchange process, the coin unit 4 performs at least one of taking in coins into the unit and dispensing coins to the outside of the unit.

[0094] The coin unit 4 has a deposit section 41. The deposit section 41 feeds coins into the unit.

[0095] The coin unit 4 has a dispensing section 42. The dispensing section 42 dispenses coins outside the unit. The dispensing section 42 is an example of a holding section or dispensing section that holds currency to be dispensed outside the device. The dispensing section 42 has a shutter 422 that opens and closes the outlet 421. When the shutter 422 is closed, the customer cannot remove the coins dispensed to the dispensing section 42. When the shutter 422 is open, the customer can remove the coins dispensed to the dispensing section 42.

[0096] The coin unit 4 has a cassette 43. The cassette 43 is detachable from the coin unit 4. The cassette 43 stores and dispenses coins. The cassette 43 is used to collect and replenish coins from the coin unit 4.

[0097] The coin unit 4 has a recognition unit 44. The recognition unit 44 recognizes coins to be deposited or dispensed.

[0098] The coin unit 4 has a storage unit 45. The storage unit 45 stores coins to be deposited. The storage unit 45 feeds coins to be dispensed. The storage unit 45 includes a plurality of cassettes. The plurality of cassettes stores coins, for example, by denomination.

[0099] The coin unit 4 has a feeding unit 46. The feeding unit 46 feeds coins inserted into the deposit unit 41 one by one to the recognition unit 44. The feeding unit 46 feeds coins fed from the storage unit 45 to the recognition unit 44 one by one.

[0100] The coin unit 4 has a transport unit 47. The transport unit 47 transports coins. The transport unit 47 has a transport path connecting a plurality of devices.

[0101] The coin unit 4 has an escrow unit 48. The escrow unit 48 temporarily stores abnormal coins when coins are dispensed.

[0102] The coin unit 4 has a coin unit controller 49. The coin unit controller 49 includes at least a processor, a memory, and an I / O circuit. The coin unit 4 operates when the coin unit controller 49 outputs a control signal to a device based on a control signal from the controller 210 of the media processing device 2.

[0103] The coin unit 4 performs the following media processing during a deposit transaction. Coins inserted from the deposit unit 41 reach the pay-out unit 46. The pay-out unit 46 sends the coins one by one to the recognition unit 44. The recognition unit 44 recognizes the coins. The transport unit 47 transports normal coins to the storage unit 45. The storage unit 45 stores the normal coins. The transport unit 47 transports rejected coins to the dispensing unit 42. The rejected coins are returned to the customer via the dispensing unit 42.

[0104] The coin unit 4 executes the following media processing during a dispensing transaction. The storage unit 45 feeds out the coins to be dispensed. The transport unit 47 transports the coins to the dispensing unit 42 via the feeding unit 46 and the recognition unit 44. The shutter 422 of the dispensing unit 42 closes the outlet 421. When all of the coins to be dispensed have been transported to the dispensing unit 42, the shutter 422 opens the outlet 421.

[0105] During an exchange transaction, the coin unit 4 executes media processing that combines the media processing during a deposit transaction and the media processing during a withdrawal transaction described above. The deposit unit 41 sends the coins to be deposited into the unit. After the recognition unit 44 recognizes the coins, the storage unit 45 stores the coins. The storage unit 45 feeds out the coins to be dispensed. The coins are transported to the withdrawal unit 42.

[0106] (Bokin Unit) Figure 8 shows the coin roll unit 5. Figure 9 is a block diagram of the coin roll unit 5. The coin roll processes executed by the coin roll unit 5 include at least one of a coin roll dispensing process and a currency exchange process. In the dispensing process, the coin roll unit 5 pays out coin rolls to the outside of the unit. In the currency exchange process, the coin roll unit 5 pays out coin rolls to the outside of the unit in response to the banknote unit 3 or coin unit 4 taking in currency into the unit.

[0107] The coin roll unit 5 has a dispensing section 51. The dispensing section 51 dispenses coin rolls out of the unit. The dispensing section 51 is an example of a holding section or dispensing section that holds currency to be dispensed out of the device. The dispensing section 51 has a shutter 512 that opens and closes the removal opening 511. When the shutter 512 is closed, the customer cannot remove the coin roll dispensed to the dispensing section 51. When the shutter 512 is open, the customer can remove the coin roll dispensed to the dispensing section 51.

[0108] The coin roll unit 5 has a storage section 52. The storage section 52 feeds out coin rolls to be dispensed. The storage section 52 includes a plurality of cassettes. The plurality of cassettes stores coin rolls, for example, by denomination.

[0109] The coin roll unit 5 has a detection unit 53. The detection unit 53 detects coin rolls that cannot be dispensed.

[0110] The coin roll unit 5 has a reject section 54. The reject section 54 stores coin rolls that cannot be dispensed.

[0111] The coin roll unit 5 has a transport section 55. The transport section 55 transports the coin rolls.

[0112] The coin roll unit 5 has a coin roll unit controller 56. The coin roll unit controller 56 includes at least a processor, a memory, and an I / O circuit. The coin roll unit 5 operates when the coin roll unit controller 56 outputs control signals to devices based on control signals from the controller 210 of the media processing device 2.

[0113] The coin roll unit 5 carries out the following media processing during a withdrawal transaction or a currency exchange transaction. The storage section 52 pays out the coin roll to be withdrawn. The transport section 55 transports the coin roll to the withdrawal section 51. The shutter 512 of the withdrawal section 51 closes the outlet 511. When all the coin rolls to be withdrawn have been transported to the withdrawal section 51, the shutter 512 opens the outlet 511.

[0114] (Check Unit) Figure 10 shows the check unit 6. Figure 11 is a block diagram of the check unit 6. The check processing performed by the check unit 6 includes a check acceptance process. In the acceptance process, the check unit 6 takes the check into the unit. In response to the acceptance process of the check unit 6, the banknote unit 3, coin unit 4, and / or coin roll unit 5 may execute a dispensing process.

[0115] The check unit 6 has a receiving section 61. The receiving section 61 delivers checks into the unit.

[0116] The check unit 6 has a return section 62. The return section 62 dispenses rejected checks out of the unit.

[0117] The check unit 6 has a recognition unit 63. The recognition unit 63 recognizes whether or not a check is acceptable.

[0118] The check unit 6 has an escrow section 64. The escrow section 64 temporarily stores checks that have been recognized by the recognition section 63. The escrow section 64 also pays out the checks it stores.

[0119] The check unit 6 has a cassette 65. The cassette 65 stores acceptable checks. The cassette 65 is detachable from the check unit 6.

[0120] The check unit 6 has a printer 66. The printer 66 prints endorsements on the checks stored in the cassette 65.

[0121] Check unit 6 has a transport section 67. Transport section 67 transports checks. Transport section 67 has transport paths that connect multiple devices.

[0122] Check unit 6 has a check unit controller 68. Check unit controller 68 includes at least a processor, memory, and I / O circuitry. Check unit 6 operates when check unit controller 68 outputs control signals to devices based on control signals from controller 210 of media processing device 2.

[0123] During an accepting transaction, the check unit 6 performs the following media processing: The accepting section 61 sends the check into the unit. The identifying section 63 identifies the check. The transporting section 67 transports the check to the temporary holding section 64. The temporary holding section 64 stores the check. When the customer performs an approval operation for the check, the temporary holding section 64 pays out the check. The printer 66 prints an endorsement on acceptable checks, and the transporting section 67 transports the printed check to the cassette 65. The cassette 65 stores the check. The transporting section 67 also transports unacceptable checks to the return section 62.

[0124] (Media processing procedures in media processing systems) As described above, the media processing system 1 accepts reservations for transactions. The procedure for a reservation transaction executed by the media processing system 1 will be described below with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 shows the operational steps of the customer terminal 16, server 11, and media processing device 2 when a customer makes a reservation for a withdrawal transaction.

[0125] First, in step S11, a customer reserves a withdrawal transaction using the customer terminal 16. The customer specifies at least (1) information identifying the customer making the reservation, (2) the type of transaction to be reserved, (3) the details of the transaction, and (4) the store to be visited.

[0126] Information identifying a customer includes, for example, account information in the customer's name and information about the customer terminal 16 carried by the customer, which will be described later. The customer selects at least one of the above-mentioned deposit processing, withdrawal processing, and currency exchange transaction as the type of transaction. The customer specifies, for example, the withdrawal amount, the withdrawal denomination, or the denomination and number of coin bars to be withdrawn as the content of the withdrawal transaction. The customer may also specify a transaction using a check as the content of the transaction. When reserving a transaction using a check, the customer may input check information in step S11. Inputting the check information may include taking an image of the check. The customer may further specify (5) the planned time of visiting the store 12, that is, the planned time of the transaction, in step S11.

[0127] These specifications can be realized by using a web browser installed in the client terminal 16 or an application provided by the financial institution. As an example here, the client terminal 16 transmits information on a reservation for a withdrawal transaction to the server 11 via the wide area network 15.

[0128] In step S12, the server 11 accepts a reservation for a withdrawal transaction from the customer terminal 16. In the following step S13, the server 11 instructs the media processing device 2 of the specified store 12 to execute the withdrawal transaction. If multiple media processing devices 2 are installed in the specified store 12, the server 11 may instruct any one of the media processing devices 2 to execute the withdrawal transaction. For example, a specific media processing device 2 among the multiple media processing devices 2 may be a dedicated media processing device 2 that executes the media processing related to the reserved transaction. The server 11 may also instruct a management device that manages the multiple media processing devices 2 to execute the withdrawal transaction. In this case, the management device may determine the media processing device 2 that will execute the media processing related to the reserved transaction when it acquires customer approach information, as described below. Also, a staff member at the store 12 who operates the tablet 14 may select the media processing device 2 that will execute the media processing related to the reserved transaction through operation of the tablet 14. In step S14, the media processing device 2 accepts the instruction from the server 11, that is, the execution of the withdrawal transaction.

[0129] After using the customer terminal 16 to make a reservation for a transaction, the customer visits the specified store 12 carrying the customer terminal 16. In step S15, the customer terminal 16 provides the customer's location information to the media processing device 2 via short-range wireless communication between the customer terminal 16 and the media processing device 2, and in step S16, the media processing device 2 acquires the customer's location information, i.e., information that the customer has approached the media processing device 2. The approach information corresponds to first information related to the relative positions of the customer and the media processing device 2. As described above, the media processing device 2 may acquire the approach information by, for example, communicating with the customer terminal 16 via Bluetooth. Note that by communicating via Bluetooth, the media processing device 2 can detect the customer terminal 16 located substantially up to 1000 m away from the media processing device 2. The distance X1 (m) between the media processing device 2 and the customer terminal 16 at which the process of step S15 is executed may be set in the range of 1000 (m) ≧ X1 (m).

[0130] In step S17, the media processing device 2 that has acquired the approach information starts media processing for the specified transaction. Here, the media processing device 2 starts a dispensing operation. At this time, the units required to execute the process accepted in step S12 operate. That is, the storage units 36, 45 and / or 52 of the banknote unit 3, coin unit 4 and / or coin roll unit 5 feed the money to be dispensed, and the transport units 37, 47 and / or 55 transport the fed money to the dispensing units 32, 42 and / or 51. At this time, the dispensing units 32, 42 and / or 51 have their shutters 322, 422 and / or 512 closed. The dispensing units 32, 42 and / or 51 hold the money to be dispensed.

[0131] After step S15, the customer arrives at the location of the media processing device 2. In step S18, the customer terminal 16 provides the media processing device 2 with the customer's location information via short-range wireless communication between the customer terminal 16 and the media processing device 2. For example, the customer may place the customer terminal 16 at a specified location of the media processing device 2, and the customer terminal 16 may provide the location information to the media processing device 2 using NFC. The media processing device 2 acquires the provided proximity information in step S19. Alternatively, the code reader 25 of the media processing device 2 may read a code displayed on the screen of the customer terminal 16, and the customer terminal 16 may provide the location information in step S18 and the media processing device 2 may acquire the proximity information in step S19. Note that if the process of step S18 is performed using Bluetooth, as in the process of S15, the distance X2 at which the process of step S18 is performed, that is, the distance X2 (m) between the media processing device 2 and the customer terminal 16, may be set in the range of X1 (m) > X2 (m).

[0132] The proximity information corresponds to second information that is acquired later than the first information. The relative positions between the customer and the media processing device 2 in the proximity information are closer than the relative positions between the customer and the media processing device 2 in the approach information. Acquisition of the proximity information using the code reader 25 corresponds to acquisition of the second information using a sensor included in the media processing device 2.

[0133] By acquiring the proximity information, the media processing device 2 can determine that the customer who made the reservation has arrived at the location of the media processing device 2. In step S110, the media processing device 2 opens the shutters 322, 422 and / or 512 of the dispensing units 32, 42 and / or 51. The customer can remove the currency already held in the dispensing units 32, 42 and / or 51 in front of the media processing device 2 without waiting for the media processing device 2 to transport the currency to the dispensing units 32, 42 and / or 51. The customer can smoothly and quickly complete a withdrawal transaction using the media processing device 2 immediately after arriving at the location of the media processing device 2. In addition, because the time that the customer occupies the media processing device 2 is shortened, the next customer can quickly begin a transaction using the media processing device 2. The turnover rate of use of the media processing device 2 is increased.

[0134] The media processing device 2 begins media processing based on the location of the customer who made the reservation. The customer who made the reservation is at least approaching the media processing device 2. That customer is likely to operate the media processing device 2 that has started media processing. It is unlikely that the media processing device 2 will be left unoperated. This improves the convenience of a system that allows reservations for transactions.

[0135] The media processing device 2 closes the shutters 322, 422 and / or 512 when dispensing the media to be dispensed to the dispensing unit 32, 42 and / or 51. Customers other than the customer who made the reservation cannot remove currency from the dispensing unit 32, 42 and / or 51. When the customer who made the reservation arrives at the location of the media processing device 2, the shutters 322, 422 and / or 512 open. The customer can then remove currency from the dispensing unit 32, 42 and / or 51. The media processing system 1 can ensure security during reserved transactions.

[0136] FIG. 13 shows the operational steps of the customer terminal 16, the server 11, and the media processing device 2 when a customer makes a reservation for a currency exchange transaction.

[0137] First, in step S21, a customer makes a reservation for a currency exchange transaction using the customer terminal 16. The customer terminal 16 transmits information on the reservation for the currency exchange transaction to the server 11 via the wide area network 15.

[0138] In step S22, the server 11 accepts a reservation for a currency exchange transaction from the customer terminal 16. In the following step S23, the server 11 instructs the media processing device 2 at the specified store 12 to execute the currency exchange transaction. In step S24, the media processing device 2 accepts the execution of the currency exchange transaction from the server 11.

[0139] After a customer visits store 12, in step S25, customer terminal 16 provides customer position information to the media processing device 2 via short-range wireless communication between the customer terminal 16 and the media processing device 2. In step S26, the media processing device 2 acquires information about the customer's approach.

[0140] In step S27, the media processing device 2 that has acquired the approach information starts media processing for the specified transaction. Here, the media processing device 2 starts a dispensing operation corresponding to the currency exchange transaction. The storage units 36, 45 and / or 52 of the banknote unit 3, coin unit 4 and / or coin roll unit 5 dispense the currency to be dispensed, and the transport units 37, 47 and / or 55 transport the dispensed currency to the dispensing units 32, 42 and / or 51. At this time, the dispensing units 32, 42 and / or 51 have their shutters 322, 422 and / or 512 closed. The dispensing units 32, 42 and / or 51 hold the currency to be dispensed.

[0141] When the customer arrives at the location of the media processing device 2, in step S28, the customer terminal 16 provides the customer's location information to the media processing device 2 via short-range wireless communication between the customer terminal 16 and the media processing device 2. In step S29, the media processing device 2 acquires the provided proximity information.

[0142] After acquiring the proximity information, the media processing device 2 prompts the customer to deposit currency for the exchange transaction. The customer inserts currency into the deposit section 31 and / or 41 of the banknote unit 3 and / or coin unit 4. The banknote unit 3 and / or coin unit 4 perform a deposit operation in step S210. As described above, the banknote unit 3 stores the banknotes sent out by the deposit section 31 in the storage section 36 after the recognition section 35 recognizes them. The coin unit 4 stores the coins inserted into the payout section 46 from the deposit section 41 in the storage section 45 after the recognition section 44 recognizes them.

[0143] Here, when the banknote unit 3 performs a deposit operation, the dispensing section 32 of the banknote unit 3 may already be holding banknotes to be dispensed in a currency exchange transaction. Banknotes that the recognition section 35 has identified as rejected banknotes cannot be transported to the dispensing section 32. The transport section 37 of the banknote unit 3 may transport rejected banknotes to the stack bin 33. The banknote unit 3 can return rejected banknotes to the customer through the second outlet 331 of the stack bin 33.

[0144] Once the deposit operation of the media processing device 2 is complete, the media processing device 2 opens the shutters 322, 422 and / or 512 of the withdrawal units 32, 42 and / or 51. The customer can deposit the currency for the exchange transaction and immediately remove it from the withdrawal units 32, 42 and / or 51, without having to wait for the media processing device 2 to transport the currency to the withdrawal units 32, 42 and / or 51. After arriving at the location of the media processing device 2, the customer can smoothly and quickly complete the currency exchange transaction using the media processing device 2. In addition, because the time that the current customer occupies the media processing device 2 is shortened, the next customer can quickly begin a transaction using the media processing device 2. The utilization turnover rate of the media processing device 2 is increased.

[0145] Even in currency exchange transactions, the media processing device 2 begins media processing based on the location of the customer who made the reservation. The customer who made the reservation is at least close to the media processing device 2. That customer is likely to operate the media processing device 2 that has begun media processing. It is unlikely that the media processing device 2 will be left unoperated. This improves the convenience of a system that allows reservations for transactions.

[0146] Even in a currency exchange transaction, the media processing device 2 closes the shutters 322, 422 and / or 512 when dispensing the currency to be dispensed to the dispensing unit 32, 42 and / or 51. Customers other than the customer who made the reservation cannot remove the currency from the dispensing unit 32, 42 and / or 51. The media processing system 1 can ensure security in reserved transactions.

[0147] When a customer reserves a withdrawal transaction by check, the media processing system 1 operates in accordance with the procedure in Figure 13. That is, the media processing device 2 performs a check acceptance operation instead of performing a deposit operation in step S210.

[0148] When a customer makes a reservation for a deposit transaction, the media processing system 1 operates in accordance with the procedures in Figure 12. After accepting the execution of the deposit transaction from the server 11, the media processing device 2 acquires approach information of the customer terminal 16 and begins preparations for operations related to the deposit transaction in step S17. If the media processing device 2 then acquires proximity information of the customer terminal 16, it performs operations related to the deposit transaction in step S110. After the customer arrives at the location of the media processing device 2, they can immediately begin the deposit transaction using the media processing device 2.

[0149] If a scheduled time has been specified, the media processing device 2 may obtain information about the customer's approach based on the customer's location information and the scheduled time, and may begin media processing related to the reservation before the scheduled time. The media processing device 2 can begin media processing at an appropriate time that takes the scheduled time into consideration.

[0150] In the above-described media processing system 1, the media processing device 2 acquires the proximity information of the customer terminal 16 via the short-range communication unit 29 or code reader 25 in step S16 or step S26. The media processing device 2 may use a sensor to detect that a customer has arrived at the location of the media processing device 2. The media processing device 2 may use a human presence sensor or a distance measurement sensor as the sensor. When the media processing device 2 detects that a customer has arrived at the location of the media processing device 2 using the human presence sensor or distance measurement sensor, it may authenticate whether or not the customer is the customer who made the reservation. The authentication is performed, for example, by the media processing system 1 reading customer information stored in a cash card (bank card) or the customer terminal 16. Executing the authentication enhances the security of the media processing system 1.

[0151] It may happen that the media processing device 2 cannot obtain the proximity information in step S19 or step S29 even after a predetermined time has elapsed after starting the dispensing operation in step S17 or step S27. For example, a customer who made a reservation may visit the store 12 but leave the store 12 without carrying out a transaction. Because the dispensing unit 32, 42, and / or 51 of the media processing device 2 holds the currency, customers other than the customer who made the reservation cannot use the media processing device 2. In this case, the media processing system 1 may notify a person in charge of the financial institution via the tablet 14 as a cancellation process. If a reservation time for the transaction is set, the cancellation process may be executed when, for example, 15 minutes have passed since the reservation time. The person in charge who has received the notification may perform a predetermined operation on the media processing device 2 to remove the currency held in the dispensing unit 32, 42, and / or 51 and return the removed currency to the media processing device 2. In addition, if the withdrawal unit 32, 42 and / or 51 of the media processing device 2 has a retract function, the withdrawal unit 32, 42 and / or 51 may use the retract function to take the held currency into the device after a predetermined time has elapsed while holding the currency.

[0152] After removing the currency held in the dispensing unit 32, 42, and / or 51, the media processing system 1 may take the following action.

[0153] The media processing system 1 notifies the customer terminal 16 to visit the counter at the store 12. The clerk deposits the removed currency at the counter. The customer can then receive the currency for the reserved withdrawal transaction at the counter at the store 12.

[0154] If the media processing device 2 has a collection unit (i.e., a drop box), instead of depositing the currency at the counter, the clerk may insert the removed currency into the collection unit. In this case, the media processing system 1 may notify the customer terminal 16 that the reserved transaction has been canceled. As shown in FIG. 15, the drop box 7 is a device equipped with an insertion port 71 for inserting currency and the like, and can be included in the media processing device 2. The drop box 7 may be located, for example, adjacent to the side of the coin unit 4 shown in FIG. 2.

[0155] Furthermore, the media processing system 1 may allow a customer who has made a reservation to choose how to handle the reservation transaction via the customer terminal 16. Examples of options include: (1) changing the reservation date and time; (2) canceling the reservation; and (3) delivering the withdrawn coins to the customer. (1) When changing the reservation date and time, as described above, the coins removed from the media processing device 2 may be deposited at the counter of the store 12. (2) When canceling a reservation, the coins removed from the media processing device 2 may be returned into the media processing device 2 or may be inserted into a collection unit. (3) When delivering the withdrawn coins to the customer, it is preferable for the customer to pay a delivery fee.

[0156] (Control of media processing device) The media processing device 2 needs to execute the reserved transaction when the customer who made the reservation visits the store 12 or at the scheduled time related to the reservation. At the same time, the media processing device 2 also executes media processing related to transactions of customers who visit the store 12 but have not made a reservation. The media processing device 2 may execute media processing related to a second customer unrelated to the reservation in the second mode so that the reserved transaction at the scheduled time is executed with priority.

[0157] Figure 14 is a flowchart related to the control of the media processing device 2. Note that, to the extent possible, the order of some of the steps in the flowchart in Figure 14 can be changed, some steps can be omitted, some steps can be replaced with other steps, or other steps can be added.

[0158] After starting, in step S31, the media processing device 2 determines whether or not there is a reservation transaction. That is, the media processing device 2 determines whether it has accepted a request to execute a reservation transaction from the server 11 in step S14 in Figure 12 or step S24 in Figure 13. If there is no reservation transaction, the process repeats step S31.

[0159] If there is a reserved transaction, in step S32, the media processing device 2 determines whether it is before the scheduled time to execute the reserved transaction. The determination in step S32 is to determine whether the scheduled time is approaching. In step S32, the media processing device 2 may determine Yes if it is α minutes before the scheduled time. α minutes can be set as appropriate. For example, α minutes may be set based on the average usage time per customer of the media processing device 2.

[0160] If the determination in step S32 is No, in step S33, the media processing device 2 executes a transaction other than a reservation transaction in normal mode, that is, a media transaction for the second customer that is not related to a reservation. After step S33, the process in Figure 14 returns to step S32.

[0161] If the determination in step S32 is Yes, in step S34, the media processing device 2 executes a transaction other than a reservation transaction in the second mode.

[0162] Here, the second mode is a mode in which the time required for media processing is shortened compared to the normal mode by accelerating the media processing.

[0163] In the second mode, the media processing device 2 may perform media processing operations at a higher speed than in normal mode. For example, the media processing device 2 may open and close the shutters 322, 422 and / or 512 faster than in normal mode. The media processing device 2 may also transport the medium faster than in normal mode. Furthermore, the media processing device 2 may shorten the wait time compared to normal mode. The wait time is the time spent waiting for a customer operation, such as waiting for the customer to insert coins. Performing media processing operations at a higher speed reduces the time required for media processing.

[0164] In the second mode, the media processing device 2 may reduce the number of items displayed to the customer on the display 21 compared to normal mode.

[0165] The media processing device 2 may reduce the display of items that are not directly related to the execution of media processing by the media processing device 2. An example of display items that may be reduced would be items that prompt the customer to input the purpose of the transaction, for example an item that prompts the customer to select the purpose of a deposit transaction from options such as "deposit of store sales proceeds" or "other deposit." Reducing the number of items displayed on display 21 makes customer operation smoother, thereby shortening the time required for media processing.

[0166] In the second mode, the media processing device 2 may impose more restrictions on the types of processing permitted to a customer than in the normal mode.

[0167] An example of a restriction on the content of a process is to restrict a customer from making two or more consecutive transactions by omitting to confirm with the customer whether or not the next transaction is necessary after one transaction is completed. Another restriction on the content of a process is to reduce the upper limit on the number of additional deposits compared to the normal mode, or to reduce the maximum number of withdrawals compared to the normal mode. Restricting the content of a process that is permitted for a customer reduces the time required for media processing.

[0168] Performing media processing in the second mode enables the media processing device 2 to perform media processing related to a reserved transaction at a scheduled time.

[0169] In step S35, the media processing device 2 determines whether it is the scheduled time. If it is not the scheduled time, the process of FIG. 14 repeats steps S34 and S35. If it is the scheduled time, in step S36, the media processing device 2 restricts transactions other than the transaction related to the reserved transaction. Even if a second customer other than the customer who made the reservation attempts to use the media processing device 2, the media processing device 2 will not operate. When the customer who made the reservation arrives at the location of the media processing device 2, as described above, the media processing device 2 allows the customer who made the reservation to remove currency, for example by opening the shutters 322, 422 and / or 512. The customer who made the reservation can use the media processing device 2 to carry out the transaction related to the reservation at the scheduled time.

[0170] In step S37, the media processing device 2 determines whether the reservation transaction has been completed. If the reservation transaction has been completed, in step S38, the media processing device 2 removes the restriction imposed in step S36. This means that a second customer other than the customer who made the reservation can now use the media processing device 2. After step S38, the process in Figure 14 returns to step S31, and if it is not yet the reserved time, the media processing device 2 performs media processing in normal mode.

[0171] If the reserved transaction is not completed in step S37, the media processing device 2 determines in step S39 whether the scheduled time for the reserved transaction has passed. If the scheduled time has not passed, the media processing device 2 waits for the reserved transaction to be completed while restricting transactions other than the reserved transaction (step S36). Note that "the scheduled time has not passed" in this case also includes the fact that a preset delay time for the reserved time has not passed. As mentioned above, the delay time may be, for example, 15 minutes.

[0172] If, in step S39, the scheduled time has passed, the media processing device 2 cancels the reserved transaction in step S310 and lifts the restriction in step S38. A second customer other than the customer who made the reservation can then use the media processing device 2. Canceling the reserved transaction improves the efficiency of operation of the media processing device 2.

[0173] In step S34, the media processing device 2 executes the transaction for the second customer in the second mode, but instead of or in addition to executing the transaction in the second mode, a staff member of the financial institution may assist the second customer in the transaction to expedite the transaction and ensure that it is completed quickly. The media processing system 1 may provide, for example, to the tablet 14, information on the scheduled time of the reserved transaction. The staff member can assist the second customer using the media processing device 2 with the transaction based on the provided information.

[0174] The media processing device 2 may also restrict the execution of transactions other than the reserved transaction even if it is not the scheduled time. The media processing device 2 can determine that the reserved transaction may not be able to be executed due to an insufficient balance by comparing the details of the reserved transaction, for example the withdrawal amount, with the balance of currency stored in the storage units 36, 45, and / or 52 of the media processing device 2. If there is a risk that the reserved transaction may not be executed, the media processing device 2 may restrict the execution of transactions other than the reserved transaction before the scheduled time arrives, so as to prevent the balance from decreasing.

[0175] (Response when media processing device cannot execute scheduled transaction) In the media processing system 1, the media processing device 2 starts media processing related to a reserved transaction in advance. However, there are cases where the media processing device 2 cannot start media processing in advance. For example, these include the following cases: (1) A deposit transaction cannot be executed because storage units 36 and / or 45 of the media processing device 2 are full or nearly full. (2) A withdrawal transaction cannot be executed because storage units 36, 45, and / or 52 of the media processing device 2 are empty or nearly empty. (3) A coin deposit transaction or coin withdrawal transaction cannot be executed because the media processing device 2 does not have a coin unit 4 or a coin bar unit 5. (4) A transaction using a check cannot be executed because the media processing device 2 does not have a check unit 6. (5) A withdrawal transaction is reserved that exceeds the upper limit that the media processing device 2 can withdraw in a single withdrawal transaction.

[0176] If the server 11, or the media processing device 2 that has received information about a reservation transaction from the server 11, cannot start media processing in advance, it provides the reservation transaction information to the tablet 14. Based on the information provided to the tablet 14, a financial institution staff member takes necessary measures before media processing related to the reservation transaction is executed.

[0177] Specifically, as described above in (1) above, when storage units 36 and / or 45 of the media processing device 2 are full or nearly full, the staff collects currency from storage units 36 and / or 45 of the media processing device 2. Because storage units 36 and / or 45 become empty, the media processing device 2 can carry out a deposit transaction.

[0178] (2) If the storage units 36, 45, and / or 52 of the media processing device 2 are empty or nearly empty, the staff replenishes coins in the storage units 36, 45, and / or 52 of the media processing device 2. Because coins are stored in the storage units 36, 45, and / or 52, the media processing device 2 can execute a withdrawal transaction.

[0179] (3) If the media processing device 2 does not have a coin unit 4 or a coin roll unit 5, for example, the coins to be dispensed are prepared in advance at the counter. When a customer who has made a reservation visits the store 12, the teller deposits or dispenses the coins at the counter.

[0180] (4) If the media processing device 2 does not have a check unit 6, when a customer who has made a reservation visits the store 12, a teller will handle the check at the counter.

[0181] (5) When a withdrawal transaction is booked that exceeds the upper limit that the media processing device 2 can withdraw in a single withdrawal transaction, a staff member uses the media processing device 2 or another device to withdraw the currency in advance, and when the customer who made the reservation arrives at the store 12, the staff member hands the currency to the customer at the counter.

[0182] In the case of (3), (4), or (5) above, the media processing system 1 may notify the customer terminal 16 to visit the counter at the store 12.

[0183] With the appropriate response from the financial institution's staff, the reserved transaction is carried out without making the customer wait, thereby increasing customer satisfaction.

[0184] (Interaction between media processing device and other devices) If the media processing device 2 is unable to execute the reserved withdrawal transaction, but a device other than the media processing device 2 is able to execute the withdrawal transaction, the media processing device 2 may guide the customer who made the reservation to execute the withdrawal transaction using the other device.

[0185] Specifically, the display 21 of the media processing device 2 guides the user to perform a withdrawal transaction using another device, and the first printer 26 or the second printer 27 outputs a receipt or paper with a code printed on it. The code is a code that identifies the reserved transaction.

[0186] The customer receives the receipt and has the code read by a code reader in another designated device. The other device then performs a media process corresponding to the reserved transaction, in this case, the withdrawal of currency.

[0187] Even if storage units 36, 45, and / or 52 become empty or nearly empty due to a transaction by a second customer just before the customer who made the reservation uses the media processing device 2 to make a withdrawal transaction, the customer who made the reservation is guided to another device, so the reserved transaction can be completed without having to wait long. As a result, customer satisfaction with media processing system 1 is increased.

[0188] It should be noted that the above-described media processing device 2 of the media processing system 1 is merely an example. Media processing devices 2 of various structures and configurations can be applied to the media processing system 1 and media processing method disclosed herein. [Explanation of symbols]

[0189] 1 Media Processing System 11 Server 2 Media Processing Device 21 Display 3. Banknote unit (media processing device) 32 Withdrawal section (holding section, dispensing section) 321 Outlet 322 Shutter 4 Coin unit (media processing device) 42 Withdrawal section (holding section, dispensing section) 421 Outlet 422 Shutter 5. Coin bar unit (media processing device) 51 Withdrawal section (holding section, dispensing section) 511 Outlet 512 Shutter

Claims

1. A reservation for a transaction including media processing by a media processing device, the reservation being set by a customer, is accepted by a server; initiating, by the media processing device, media processing corresponding to the transaction related to the reservation based on first information relating to a relative position between the customer and the media processing device; and completing the transaction associated with the reservation by allowing the customer to handle media at the media processing device based on second information related to the relative position. Media processing methods.

2. The medium processing method according to claim 1 , wherein the second information is acquired at a later time than the first information.

3. 3 . The media processing method according to claim 1 , wherein the relative positions of the customer and the media processing device in the second information are closer than the relative positions of the customer and the media processing device in the first information.

4. The transaction is a withdrawal transaction, The medium processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the medium processing device pays out money stored in the device to the outside of the device in the withdrawal transaction.

5. The media processing method according to claim 4 , wherein the media processing device starts transporting currency from within the device to outside based on the first information.

6. the medium processing device has a holding unit that holds the currency to be dispensed outside the device, and a shutter that opens and closes an outlet of the holding unit; The media processing method according to claim 5 , wherein the media processing device closes the shutter while transporting the coins to the holding section, and opens the shutter when allowing the customer to remove the coins from the holding section based on the second information.

7. The transaction is a currency exchange transaction, The media processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the media processing device, in the currency exchange transaction, takes in the customer's currency into the device and pays out currency within the device that is equivalent to the taken-in currency.

8. the medium processing device has an insertion unit that takes in money into the device, a dispensing unit that holds money to be dispensed out of the device, and a shutter that opens and closes an outlet of the dispensing unit; the media processing device starts transporting the money within the device to the dispensing unit based on the first information, and closes the shutter while the money is being transported to the dispensing unit; The media processing method according to claim 7, wherein the media processing device permits the customer to insert coins into the device through the insertion section based on the second information, and opens the shutter when permitting the customer to remove the coins from the dispensing section after the coins have been inserted.

9. The transaction is a deposit transaction, 4. The media processing method according to claim 1, wherein the media processing device takes in the customer's currency in the deposit transaction.

10. the reservation includes a scheduled time when the customer will handle currency at the media processing device; 10. The media processing method according to claim 1, wherein the media processing device starts media processing corresponding to the transaction related to the reservation before the scheduled time.

11. The media processing method according to claim 10, wherein when the media processing device performs media processing relating to a second customer not related to the reservation before the scheduled time, the media processing device performs the media processing in a second mode that shortens the time required for the media processing compared to normal mode.

12. The media processing method according to claim 11 , wherein in the second mode, the media processing device performs operations related to media processing at a higher speed than in the normal mode.

13. The media processing method according to claim 11 , wherein the media processing device reduces, in the second mode, a number of display items shown on a display to the second customer compared to the normal mode.

14. 14. The media processing method according to claim 11, wherein the media processing device limits the content of processes permitted for the second customer in the second mode more than in the normal mode.

15. 15. The media processing method according to claim 10, wherein the media processing device limits customers who will perform a transaction at the scheduled time to only the customer related to the reservation.

16. 16. The media processing method according to claim 15, wherein the media processing device cancels the transaction related to the reservation and removes the restriction if the transaction related to the reservation by the customer is not completed even after the scheduled time has passed.

17. The medium processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the first information and the second information are acquired by utilizing a communication function of a mobile terminal held by the customer.

18. The first information is acquired by utilizing a communication function of a mobile terminal held by the customer, The media processing method according to claim 1, wherein the second information is acquired using a sensor included in the media processing device.

19. the media processing device has a controller that controls the media processing device, The media processing method according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the media processing is initiated by the controller based on the controller obtaining information regarding a transaction related to the reservation from the server and obtaining the first information from the mobile terminal.

20. a media processing device for executing transactions including media processing; a server that accepts reservations set by a customer for transactions to be executed by the media processing device; the media processing device initiates a media processing corresponding to the transaction related to the reservation based on first information related to a relative position between the customer and the media processing device; the media processing device completes the transaction associated with the reservation by allowing the customer to handle the media at the media processing device based on second information related to the relative position. Media handling systems.

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