Paper sheet processing device and paper sheet processing method

Abstract

To provide a paper sheet processing device capable of suitably storing or delivering paper sheet by switching a conveyance mechanism in a storage unit between when the paper sheet is stored in the storage unit and when the paper sheet is delivered from the storage unit.SOLUTION: A circulating conveyance unit for conveying paper sheet comprises a conveyance path on which the paper sheet is conveyed, and a paper sheet storage unit 83 is connected to the conveyance path. The paper sheet storage unit 83 includes a storage unit that stores the paper sheet, and can store paper sheet 61 or deliver the stored paper sheet 61. The storage unit includes a second rotor 65 that comes into contact with the paper sheet 61 to deliver the paper sheet 61 to the outside, and a guide arm 67 that associatively moves in the rotation direction of the second rotor 65. When the paper sheet 61 is stored, the guide arm 67 is delivered below the second rotor 65 to guide the paper sheet 61 to the deep side of the storage unit. When the paper sheet 61 is stored, the guide arm 67 is retreated to a position not contacting with the paper sheet, and the paper sheet 61 is conveyed to the outside by the second rotor 65.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a paper sheet processing apparatus that inputs and outputs paper sheets and a paper sheet processing method, and more particularly to a banknote processing apparatus that inputs and outputs banknotes and a banknote processing method. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, a known paper sheet processing device handles banknotes as paper sheets and includes a deposit port for receiving banknotes, a dispensing port for discharging banknotes, a transport path for transporting the banknotes, an identification unit for identifying the denomination of the banknotes, a sorting unit for sorting the banknotes by denomination, and a banknote storage unit for storing the banknotes by denomination and dispensing the stored banknotes. In such a paper sheet processing device, banknotes are deposited through the deposit port, and the denomination of the banknote is identified by the identification unit arranged along the transport path. The identified banknotes are sorted by denomination by the sorting unit arranged along the transport path and stored in the banknote storage device by denomination. When dispensing banknotes, the paper sheet processing device dispenses banknotes of a specified denomination and number from the banknote storage device, transports them to the dispensing port, and dispenses them. For example, paper sheet processing devices are used in currency exchange machines and settlement machines.

[0003] For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2021-9592 describes a recycling-type banknote storage device equipped with a banknote storage unit for depositing and dispensing banknotes. The recycling-type banknote storage device can stack and store banknotes sent from a transport path to the banknote storage unit, and can also feed banknotes from the banknote storage unit to the transport path. Furthermore, electrostatically charged banknotes can stick to the guide surface above the banknote storage unit, potentially causing banknote storage problems in the banknote storage unit. To address this issue, a peeling lever is provided on the banknote entrance / exit side of the banknote storage unit. The tip of the peeling lever is biased downward by a spring. The peeling lever is also journaled in a vertically elongated hole so that it can move up and down and rotate. The peeling lever presses downward on the top surface of banknotes entering the banknote storage unit, preventing them from sticking to the guide surface located above the banknote storage unit. When dispensing, the banknotes stacked on the tray are raised up and brought into contact with the feeding roller. The banknotes are transported by the driving of the feeding roller. The peeling lever is pushed by the rising banknotes, and the shaft of the peeling lever moves upward along the elongated hole so as not to interfere with the dispensing. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-9592 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In conventional technology, the banknote storage unit of a banknote handling device is equipped with a peeling lever that adjusts the posture of and holds down banknotes being deposited. However, in conventional devices, the peeling lever abuts against banknotes both when depositing banknotes into the banknote storage unit and when dispensing banknotes from the banknote storage unit. When banknotes are fed out of the banknote storage unit, the banknotes are pushed from above, which could disrupt their posture during transport. Disturbances in the posture of banknotes during transport could result in transport problems. Furthermore, when depositing banknotes into the banknote storage unit, the rollers that transport the banknotes into the banknote storage unit are located outside the banknote storage unit. If the banknotes are prone to bending, the banknotes could bend, making it difficult to guide the banknotes to the back of the banknote storage unit.

[0006] The present invention provides a paper sheet processing device that can optimally store and dispense paper sheets such as banknotes by switching the paper sheet transport mechanism within the storage unit when storing the paper sheets in the storage unit and when dispensing them from the storage unit. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The paper sheet processing apparatus of the present invention includes a transport path having a transport mechanism for transporting paper sheets, a storage unit connected to the transport path and stacking and storing the paper sheets taken in from the transport path or feeding the stacked and stored paper sheets to the transport path, a first rotating body disposed between the storage unit and the transport path and moving the paper sheets in a direction to store them in the storage unit or in a direction to feed them out, a second rotating body that comes into contact with the surface of the paper sheets stored in the storage unit and moves the paper sheets toward the first rotating body, and a second rotating body that transports the paper sheets from the transport path to the storage unit. The device is characterized by having a guide arm that abuts against the paper sheets being fed, preventing them from coming into contact with the second rotating body and guiding them to the back of the storage section, and a moving mechanism that, when storing the paper sheets from the conveying path in the storage section, moves the guide arm to a guide position that prevents the paper sheets from coming into contact with the second rotating body and guides the paper sheets to the back of the storage section, and, when paying out the paper sheets from the storage section to the conveying path, moves the guide arm to a retracted position where it does not come into contact with the paper sheets in the storage section.

[0008] The paper sheet processing method of the present invention includes a transport path having a transport mechanism for transporting paper sheets, a storage unit connected to the transport path and stacking and storing the paper sheets taken in from the transport path or feeding the stacked and stored paper sheets to the transport path, a first rotating body arranged between the storage unit and the transport path and moving the paper sheets in a direction to store them in the storage unit or in a direction to feed them out, and a second rotating body interlocking with the first rotating body and contacting the surfaces of the paper sheets stored in the storage unit and moving the paper sheets forward. a second rotating body that moves the paper sheets in the direction of the first rotating body; a guide arm that comes into contact with the surface of the paper sheets transported from the transport path to the storage unit to prevent the paper sheets from contacting the second rotating body and to guide the paper sheets to the back of the storage unit; a movement mechanism that moves the guide arm to a guide position where the guide arm guides the paper sheets to the back of the storage unit and a retracted position where the guide arm does not contact the paper sheets in the storage unit according to the rotation direction of the first rotating body or the second rotating body; and a storage unit tray on which the paper sheets are stacked and placed. the storage unit tray comprises a lifting mechanism that lowers the stored paper sheets to a storage position where they are separated from the second rotating body or raises them to a feed position where the second rotating body contacts the stored paper sheets, a drive mechanism that drives the interlocking first rotating body, the second rotating body, and the moving mechanism, and a control circuit that controls the drive mechanism and the lifting mechanism, and when the paper sheets are to be stored from the transport path to the storage unit, the storage unit tray comprises: a step of lowering the storage unit tray to the storage position; a step of moving the guide arm to a guide position; and a step of driving the first rotating body, the second rotating body, and the guide arm when the storage unit tray is in the storage position to store the paper sheets, and when the paper sheets are to be fed from the storage unit to the transport path, the storage unit tray comprises: a step of lifting the storage unit tray to the feed position; a step of moving the guide arm to a retracted position; and a step of driving the first rotating body and the second rotating body when the storage unit tray is in the feed position to feed the paper sheets. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a paper sheet processing apparatus that can suitably store paper sheets such as banknotes in a storage unit that stores the paper sheets, and that can suitably feed paper sheets such as banknotes from the storage unit. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the paper sheet processing apparatus. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the paper sheet processing apparatus. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a first diagram illustrating the configuration of a storage unit of the paper sheet handling machine. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a second diagram illustrating the configuration of the entrance portion of the storage unit of the paper sheet handling machine. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the paper sheet processing apparatus. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating the depositing operation of the paper sheet processing apparatus. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the dispensing operation of the paper sheet processing apparatus. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to Figures 1 to 7. Each figure is merely a schematic illustration to allow a sufficient understanding of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated examples. In addition, in each figure, common or similar components are assigned the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations thereof will be omitted.

[0012] In the following explanation, a banknote processing device that processes banknotes as paper sheets will be described. Instead of the banknotes used in the banknote processing device, it is also possible to process paper sheets similar to banknotes, such as securities, checks, and sheets of paper or resin of a predetermined size.

[0013] First, the external appearance of the banknote processing device 1 will be described using FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the banknote processing device. The banknote processing device 1 can receive banknotes through the deposit slot 2 and discharge them through the withdrawal slot 3. The banknote processing device 1 can insert multiple stacked banknotes into the deposit slot 2. The stacked banknotes inserted into the deposit slot 2 are separated into individual banknotes by a separator and transported inside the banknote processing device 1. The banknote processing device 1 is covered by a rear case 4 and a front case 5 to prevent easy access to the interior. A functional unit including the front case 5 can be removed from the rear case 4. A lock 6 secures the front case 5 to the rear case 4 and prevents the front case 5 from being removed from the rear case 4. Access to the interior of the banknote processing device 1 is restricted by the lock 6. The lock 6 can be unlocked and locked using a key corresponding to the lock 6. A first indicator light 7 lights up when a banknote is present in the deposit slot 2, and a second indicator light 8 lights up when a banknote is present in the withdrawal slot 3. Each indicator light indicates whether or not banknotes are present at the deposit port 2 or the withdrawal port 3.

[0014] Next, the internal configuration of the sheet processing apparatus will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the sheet processing apparatus.

[0015] The banknote processing device 1 has functional units housed inside an interior surrounded by a rear case 4 and a front case 5. The main functional units are a deposit identification unit 84 that separates banknotes one by one, deposits them, and identifies their denominations, a dispensing unit 85 that dispenses banknotes, a first storage unit 81 that stores and dispenses banknotes of a first denomination, a reject unit 80 that stores banknotes to be collected, a circulating transport unit 60 that transports banknotes in a circular manner, a second storage unit 82 that stores and dispenses banknotes of a second denomination, and a third storage unit 83 that stores and dispenses banknotes of a third denomination. For example, the first denomination is a 10,000 yen banknote, the second denomination is a 1,000 yen banknote, the third denomination is a 5,000 yen banknote, and the collected banknotes are 2,000 yen banknotes.

[0016] In the banknote processing device 1, functional units that identify, transport, store, etc. banknotes are covered by a rear case 4 and a front case 5. The front case 5 is provided with a first indicator light 7 that indicates that a banknote is present in the deposit slot 2, and a second indicator light 8 that indicates that a banknote is present in the withdrawal slot 3. A shutter 9 is provided at the end of the withdrawal slot 3. When the shutter 9 is open, banknotes can be removed from the withdrawal slot 3. When the shutter 9 is closed, banknotes cannot be removed from the withdrawal slot 3.

[0017] The deposit recognition unit 84 is a unit that accepts banknotes, separates the accepted banknotes one by one, identifies the denomination of each separated banknote, and transports them to the next process. The longitudinal direction of the banknotes is the left-right direction in Fig. 2, and the banknotes are inserted from the deposit slot 2 towards the back of the deposit recognition unit 84, i.e., towards the right in Fig. 2, and transported.

[0018] An opening is formed in the front case 5, and a deposit slot 2 for inserting bills is disposed therein.

[0019] The first guide plate 10 is a plate that guides banknotes from the deposit slot 2 to the back. The second guide plate 11 is disposed opposite the first guide plate 10, and together with the first guide plate 10, forms a banknote passage that guides banknotes from the deposit slot 2 to the back. Banknotes are transported with their front or back faces facing the first guide plate 10.

[0020] The pressure plate 12 is biased by a spring 13 toward the first guide plate 10 and presses the banknotes against the first guide plate 10. The first separation roller 14 protrudes partially from the surface of the first guide plate 10 through a through hole provided in the first guide plate 10. The first separation roller 14 is disposed opposite the pressure plate 12. The first separation roller 14 is driven by a motor (not shown). Banknotes inserted through the deposit slot 2 are sandwiched between the pressure plate 12 and the first separation roller 14, and the banknotes that come into contact with the first separation roller 14 are transported. When multiple banknotes are inserted, they are transported one by one to the back in order, starting from the banknote on the first guide plate 10 side. The deposit slot sensor 15 is a sensor that detects the presence or absence of banknotes.

[0021] The second separation roller 16 protrudes from a through-hole formed in the first guide plate 10 and contacts the third separation roller 17. The second separation roller 16 is driven by a motor (not shown). The third separation roller 17 does not rotate in the direction in which the banknotes are transported. When multiple banknotes are inserted in a stacked state, the leading edges of the banknotes come into contact with the curved surface of the third separation roller 17 in a shifted manner. The leading edges of banknotes closer to the first guide plate 10 are located further back in the banknote transport path.

[0022] The banknote closest to the first guide plate 10 is sandwiched by the second separation roller 16 and the third separation roller 17, and this banknote is transported alone. The separation unit is a mechanism located between the deposit slot 2 and the deposit unit transport belt 19, which separates multiple stacked banknotes one by one and hands them over to the deposit unit transport belt 19.

[0023] The depositing section conveying belt 19 is looped around a plurality of depositing section pulleys 18. It is sufficient that the depositing section conveying belt 19 is looped around at least the depositing section pulleys 18 at both ends. One of the depositing section pulleys 18 at both ends is driven by a motor (not shown), which drives the depositing section conveying belt 19. The depositing section pinch roller 20 is urged in the direction of the depositing section conveying belt 19. The banknotes separated into individual sheets are pinched between the depositing section pinch roller 20 and the depositing section conveying belt 19 and conveyed.

[0024] The identification sensor 21 is disposed in the area between the deposit section pinch rollers 20 disposed on both ends of the deposit section conveyor belt 19. The identification section sensor 21 is disposed midway along the conveyance path for banknotes. The identification sensor 21 is a sensor for identifying the denomination of deposited banknotes. The denomination of banknotes conveyed by the deposit section pinch rollers 20 and the deposit section conveyor belt 19 is identified by the identification sensor 21. The portion where this identification sensor 21 is disposed is referred to as the recognition section. Depending on the denomination identified by the identification sensor 21, banknotes are stored or discharged.

[0025] The deposit section inlet / outlet guide 22 is a curved conveyance path for allowing banknotes to enter the linear first conveyance path 23. The deposit recognition unit 84 is connected to the first conveyance path 23 by the deposit section inlet / outlet guide 22.

[0026] Next, the configuration of the circulating transport unit 60, which includes a transport path for transporting banknotes in a circulating manner, will be described.

[0027] The first conveying path 23 is a linear conveying path along which banknotes are conveyed. The second conveying path 24 is a linear conveying path along which banknotes are conveyed. The first conveying path 23 and the second conveying path 24 are opposed to each other. The first curved conveying path 25 is a conveying path that connects the upper end of the first conveying path 23 with the upper end of the second conveying path 24. The second curved conveying path 26 is a conveying path that connects the lower end of the first conveying path 23 with the lower end of the second conveying path 24. The circular conveying path that circulates banknotes is made up of the first conveying path 23, the second curved conveying path 26, the second conveying path 24, and the first curved conveying path 25. The conveying direction of banknotes is the forward direction in the order of the first conveying path 23, the second curved conveying path 26, the second conveying path 24, and the first curved conveying path 25, and the reverse direction in the reverse order.

[0028] The first curved conveying path 25 and the second curved conveying path 26 do not necessarily need to be provided with a drive mechanism, such as a roller that contacts and moves banknotes. The first curved conveying path 25 and the second curved conveying path 26 are paths sandwiched between a guide that supports the front side of the banknote and a guide that supports the back side of the banknote. The first curved conveying path 25 and the second curved conveying path 26 are not limited in terms of the arrangement or shape of the drive mechanism. The first curved conveying path 25 and the second curved conveying path 26 may be any path shaped so long as banknotes can pass through, and the shape of the conveying path can be freely determined. For example, the first curved conveying path 25 or the second curved conveying path 26 may be a rounded trapezoidal conveying path, thereby shortening the vertical length of the circular conveying path. In this case, there is no need to provide components constituting the conveying mechanism or a transmission mechanism that transmits power from a motor in the first curved conveying path 25 or the second curved conveying path 26, which allows space to be secured for other components and enables space-saving device operation. Furthermore, by arranging a pair of drive rollers constituting the conveying mechanism on the first curved conveying path 25 or the second curved conveying path 26, it is possible to make the conveying of banknotes at corners more efficient. In particular, the leading edge of a banknote that has entered a corner can be pinched by the pair of rollers, which prevents the leading edge of the banknote from bending or skewing when it comes into contact with the curved conveying path.

[0029] In addition to a banknote deposit recognition unit 84, a dispensing unit 85 that dispenses banknotes, a first storage unit 81 that stores banknotes of a first denomination, and a reject unit 80 that stores collected banknotes are connected to the first transport path 23. A first branching plate 37, a second branching plate 38, and a third branching plate 39 that can change the movement direction of banknotes on the first transport path 23 are arranged to correspond to either the dispensing unit 85, the first storage unit 81, or the reject unit 80. Each of the first branching plate 37, the second branching plate 38, and the third branching plate 39 is driven by an actuator (not shown). The first branching plate 37 causes banknotes moving on the first transport path 23 to travel straight or guides them to the dispensing unit 85. The second branching plate 38 causes banknotes moving on the first transport path 23 to travel straight or guides them to the first storage unit 81. Further, the second branching plate 38 guides banknotes from the first storage unit 81 to the first transport path 23 for withdrawal. The third branching plate 39 either moves the banknotes moving on the first transport path 23 straight forward or guides them to the reject unit 80. The first branching plate 37, the second branching plate 38, and the third branching plate 39 can guide the banknotes in a desired direction.

[0030] A second storage unit 82 that stores banknotes of a second denomination and a third storage unit 83 that stores banknotes of a third denomination are connected to the second transport path 24. A fourth branching plate 40 and a fifth branching plate 41 that can change the movement direction of banknotes on the second transport path 24 are arranged to correspond to either the second storage unit 82 or the third storage unit 83. Both the fourth branching plate 40 and the fifth branching plate 41 are driven by an actuator (not shown). The fourth branching plate 40 causes banknotes moving on the second transport path 24 to travel straight or guides them to the second storage unit 82. The fourth branching plate 40 also guides banknotes from the second storage unit 82 to the second transport path 24 so that they can be withdrawn. The fifth branching plate 41 causes banknotes moving on the second transport path 24 to travel straight or guides them to the third storage unit 83. Furthermore, fifth branch plate 41 guides banknotes from third storage unit 83 to second transport path 24 for withdrawal. Fourth branch plate 40 and fifth branch plate 41 can guide banknotes in a desired direction. Storage units 81, 82, 83 that store banknotes are connected to either linear first transport path 23 or second transport path 24. In this way, the angles at which banknotes enter and exit the banknote entrance and exit ports of each storage unit 81, 82, 83 are the same, and the entrance and exit ports can be configured with similar mechanisms, making it possible to maintain consistent quality in entering and exiting banknotes.

[0031] There are multiple locations where banknotes enter the linear first transport path 23 or the linear second transport path 24. If the angles at which banknotes enter the transport path vary, transport abnormalities often occur at locations with steep entry angles. By keeping the banknote entry angle constant, it is possible to eliminate locations where problems are likely to occur and achieve stable transport. Furthermore, there are multiple locations where banknotes exit the linear first transport path 23 or the linear second transport path 24. If the angles at which banknotes exit the transport path vary, transport abnormalities often occur at locations with steep exit angles. By keeping the banknote exit angle constant, it is possible to eliminate locations where problems are likely to occur and achieve stable transport.

[0032] The first conveying path 23 includes a first belt 27 that is looped around a first driven pulley 29 and a first driving pulley 30, and a plurality of conveying section pinch rollers 35 that are biased in the direction of the first belt 27. Banknotes are sandwiched between the first belt 27 and the conveying section pinch rollers 35 and conveyed. The first driving pulley 30 is driven by a motor (not shown), and the first belt 27 is driven by the first driving pulley 30. A support roller 36 is disposed at a position corresponding to the conveying section pinch rollers 35, and sandwiches the first belt 27 between them. This support roller 36 prevents bending of the first belt 27 that is pressed by the conveying section pinch rollers 35. The conveying section pinch rollers 35 can also be disposed corresponding to the first driven pulley 29 and the first driving pulley 30. The conveyance section pinch roller 35 disposed opposite the first belt 27 is rotatably supported by any one of the deposit recognition unit 84, the dispensing unit 85, the first storage unit 81, and the reject unit 80.

[0033] The second conveying path 24 includes a second belt 28 wound around a second driven pulley 31 and a second driving pulley 32, and a plurality of conveying section pinch rollers 35 biased in the direction of the second belt 28. Banknotes are sandwiched between the second belt 28 and the conveying section pinch rollers 35 and conveyed. The second driving pulley 32 is driven by a motor (not shown), and the second belt 28 is driven by the second driving pulley 32. A support roller 36 is disposed at a position corresponding to the conveying section pinch roller 35, sandwiching the second belt 28. This support roller 36 prevents bending of the second belt 28 pressed by the conveying section pinch roller 35. The conveying section pinch roller 35 can also be disposed corresponding to the second driven pulley 31 and the second driving pulley 32. The conveying section pinch roller 35, disposed opposite the second belt 28, is rotatably supported by either the second storage unit 82 or the third storage unit 83.

[0034] The first belt 27 and the second belt 28 are interlocked by a transmission belt 34 that transmits driving force between a pulley (not shown) fixed to the rotation shaft of the first drive pulley 30 and positioned in the depth direction of the drawing, and a pulley (not shown) fixed to the rotation shaft of the second drive pulley 32 and positioned in the depth direction of the drawing. A tension roller 33 prevents the transmission belt 34 from bending and applies an appropriate tension to the transmission belt 34. The first drive pulley 30 and the second drive pulley 32 may transmit driving force via an intermediate gear train between gears fixed to their respective shafts. In this case, there is no need to apply an appropriate tension, and the tension roller 33 is not required.

[0035] In order to reduce the depth of the banknote processing device 1, the banknote circular transport path is formed in the shape of a vertically long, rounded rectangle when viewed from the side of the banknote processing device 1, or in the shape of two opposing linear transport paths connected by a semicircular transport path. In FIG. 2, the left-right direction is the depth direction of the banknote processing device 1, and the diagram shown in FIG. 2 is a side view of the banknote processing device 1. When viewed from the side of the banknote processing device 1, multiple functional units are arranged stacked one above the other facing the first transport path 23 of the banknote circular transport path, and multiple functional units are arranged stacked one above the other facing the second transport path 24. The first transport path 23 and the second transport path 24 are formed by the side surfaces of each functional unit and the side surface of the circulating transport unit 60. This allows the circulating transport unit 60 to be smaller in size in the depth direction of the banknote processing device 1.

[0036] Next, the dispensing unit 85 will be described.

[0037] The dispensing unit tray 44 stores banknotes to be dispensed in a stacked manner. The banknotes stored in a stacked manner in the dispensing unit tray 44 can be removed from the dispensing port 3. When the shutter 9 is open, the banknotes stored in the dispensing unit tray 44 can be removed from the dispensing port 3, but when the shutter 9 is closed, the banknotes cannot be removed from the dispensing port 3.

[0038] The first branching plate 37 is driven to either a position where it guides banknotes being transported in the forward direction on the first transport path 23 toward the dispensing port 3, or a position where it transports the banknotes along the first transport path 23. By driving the dispensing unit belt 42 and the dispensing unit rollers 43, the banknotes guided by the first branching plate 37 are transported to the dispensing unit tray 44. A pinch roller (not shown) is disposed opposite the dispensing unit belt 42. This pinch roller is biased in the direction of the dispensing unit belt 42. The dispensing unit belt 42 and the pinch roller pinch the banknotes, and the rotation of the dispensing unit belt 42 transports the banknotes to the dispensing unit tray 44. The dispensing unit roller 43 is equipped with a plurality of flexible wings, and the banknotes transported by the dispensing unit belt 42 and the pinch roller are thrown by the wings and stacked on the dispensing unit tray 44. When the specified amount of banknotes has been stored in the dispensing unit tray 44, the shutter 9 opens and the banknotes can be taken out from the dispensing port 3 to the outside.

[0039] Next, the first storage unit 81 will be described.

[0040] The first storage unit 81 can store banknotes of a first denomination in a stacked state and can discharge the stored banknotes one by one.

[0041] The second branching plate 38 is driven to one of the following positions: a position where banknotes being transported in the forward direction on the first transport path 23 are guided to the first storage unit 81; a position where banknotes are transported along the first transport path 23; and a position where banknotes discharged from the first storage unit 81 are guided to be transported in the forward direction on the first transport path 23.

[0042] When banknotes are to be stored in the first storage unit 81, the second diverter plate 38 is driven so that banknotes being transported in the forward direction on the first transport path 23 are guided from the first transport path 23 toward the first storage unit tray 47. The first storage unit drive roller 46 is driven by a motor (not shown) and stores and discharges banknotes by changing its direction of rotation. The first storage unit pinch roller 45 is urged toward the first storage unit drive roller 46, pinches banknotes together with the first storage unit drive roller 46, and transports the pinched banknotes. Depending on the rotation direction of the first storage unit drive roller 46, the banknotes are transported to the first storage unit tray 47 or in the opposite direction. The banknotes transported to the first storage unit tray 47 are stored in a stacked state on the first storage unit tray 47.

[0043] When banknotes are sent from the first storage unit 81 to the first transport path 23, the second branch plate 38 is driven in a direction to guide the banknotes from the first storage unit 81 to the first transport path 23. At this time, the banknotes are driven in the forward direction in the first transport path 23. The first storage unit drive roller 46 rotates in the direction to discharge the banknotes, and the first storage unit pinch roller 45 does not rotate to transport the banknotes to the first transport path 23. By not rotating the first storage unit pinch roller 45, it is possible to transport only the topmost banknote even if the banknotes are overlapping. The banknote is then pinched by the first belt 27, which is biased by the support roller 36, and the transport section pinch roller 35, and is fed out to the first transport path 23 and transported.

[0044] The first storage unit lifting mechanism 48 lifts and lowers the first storage unit tray 47. When discharging banknotes, the first storage unit lifting mechanism 48 lifts and lowers the first storage unit tray 47 in accordance with the operation of a separation mechanism (not shown) that separates banknotes one by one from a plurality of stacked banknotes and sends them between the first storage unit drive roller 46 and the first storage unit pinch roller 45.

[0045] Next, the reject unit 80 will be described.

[0046] The reject unit 80 can store banknotes of the denomination to be collected in a stacked state. For example, it stores old banknotes, banknotes with low circulation, etc. Furthermore, when it detects that two or more banknotes are stacked during dispensing, the branch plate of the transport path is controlled, and the banknotes are not transported to the dispensing port 3 but are transported to the reject unit 80 and stored therein.

[0047] The third branch plate 39 is driven to either a position where banknotes transported in the forward direction along the first transport path 23 are guided to the reject unit 80, or a position where the banknotes are transported along the first transport path 23.

[0048] When storing banknotes in the reject unit 80, the third branch plate 39 is driven to change the direction in which the banknotes are guided, and the banknotes are guided from the first transport path 23 toward the reject unit tray 51. The reject unit drive roller 49 is driven by a motor (not shown) to store the banknotes. The reject unit pinch roller 50 is urged toward the reject unit drive roller 49, and pinches the banknotes together with the reject unit drive roller 49, transporting the pinched banknotes to the reject unit tray 51. The transported banknotes are stacked on top of the reject unit tray 51 and stored.

[0049] Next, the second storage unit 82 will be described.

[0050] The second storage unit 82 can store banknotes of the second denomination in a stacked state and can discharge the stored banknotes one by one.

[0051] The fourth branch plate 40 is driven to one of the following positions: a position where banknotes being transported in the forward direction on the second transport path 24 are guided to the second storage unit 82; a position where banknotes are transported along the second transport path 24; and a position where banknotes discharged from the second storage unit 82 are transported in the forward direction on the second transport path 24.

[0052] When storing banknotes in the second storage unit 82, the fourth branch plate 40 is driven to change the direction in which the banknotes are guided, and the banknotes are guided from the second transport path 24 toward the second storage unit tray 54. The second storage unit drive roller 53 is driven by a motor (not shown) and stores and discharges banknotes by changing its direction of rotation. The second storage unit pinch roller 52 is urged toward the second storage unit drive roller 53 and, together with the second storage unit drive roller 53, pinches the banknotes and transports the pinched banknotes to the second storage unit tray 54. The transported banknotes are stored in a stacked state on the second storage unit tray 54.

[0053] When banknotes are to be sent from the second storage unit 82 to the second transport path 24, the fourth branch plate 40 is driven so that the banknotes are transported in the forward direction along the second transport path 24. The second storage unit drive roller 53 is rotated in the direction in which the banknotes are discharged, and the second storage unit pinch roller 52 is not rotated to transport the banknotes to the second transport path 24. By not rotating the second storage unit pinch roller 52, it is possible to transport only the topmost banknote even if the banknotes are overlapping. The banknote is then pinched by the second belt 28 and the transport section pinch roller 35, and is fed out to the second transport path 24 and transported.

[0054] The second storage unit lifting mechanism 55 lifts and lowers the second storage unit tray 54. When discharging banknotes, the second storage unit lifting mechanism 55 lifts and lowers the second storage unit tray 54 in accordance with the operation of a separation mechanism (not shown) that separates banknotes one by one from the stack of multiple banknotes and sends them between the second storage unit drive roller 53 and the second storage unit pinch roller 52.

[0055] Next, the third storage unit 83 will be described.

[0056] The third storage unit 83 can store banknotes of the third denomination in a stacked state and can discharge the stored banknotes one by one.

[0057] The fifth branch plate 41 is driven to one of the following positions: a position where banknotes being transported in the forward direction on the second transport path 24 are guided to the third storage unit 83; a position where banknotes are transported along the second transport path 24; and a position where banknotes discharged from the third storage unit 83 are transported in the forward direction on the second transport path 24.

[0058] When storing banknotes in the third storage unit 83, the fifth branch plate 41 is driven to change the direction in which the banknotes are guided, and the banknotes are guided from the second transport path 24 toward the third storage unit tray 58. The third storage unit drive roller 57 is driven by a motor (not shown) and stores and discharges banknotes by changing its direction of rotation. The third storage unit pinch roller 56 is urged toward the third storage unit drive roller 57 and, together with the third storage unit drive roller 57, pinches the banknotes and transports the pinched banknotes to the third storage unit tray 58. The transported banknotes are stored in a stacked state on the third storage unit tray 58.

[0059] When banknotes are to be sent from the third storage unit 83 to the second transport path 24, the fifth branch plate 41 is driven so that the banknotes are transported in the forward direction along the second transport path 24. The third storage unit drive roller 57 rotates in the direction in which the banknotes are discharged, and the third storage unit pinch roller 56 does not rotate to transport the banknotes to the second transport path 24. By not rotating the third storage unit pinch roller 56, it is possible to transport only the topmost banknote even if the banknotes are overlapping. The banknote is then pinched by the second belt 28 and the transport section pinch roller 35, and is fed out to the second transport path 24 and transported.

[0060] The third storage unit lifting mechanism 59 lifts and lowers the third storage unit tray 58. When discharging banknotes, the third storage unit lifting mechanism 59 lifts and lowers the third storage unit tray 58 in accordance with the operation of a separation mechanism (not shown) that separates banknotes one by one from the stack of banknotes and sends them between the third storage unit drive roller 57 and the third storage unit pinch roller 56.

[0061] Next, the configuration of the storage unit that stores banknotes will be described using Figure 3. Figure 3 is the first diagram that explains the configuration of the storage unit of the paper sheet processing device. Figure 3 explains the third storage unit 83. The second storage unit 82 and the third storage unit 83 have different denominations of banknotes to be stored and different numbers of banknotes that can be stored, but have the same mechanism, and the first storage unit 81 and the third storage unit 83 have different denominations of banknotes to be stored, different numbers of banknotes that can be stored, and different directions in which the banknote input / output ports are arranged, but have the same basic mechanism. Figure 3 also shows the state in which banknotes 61 are stored in the third storage unit 83.

[0062] The third storage unit 83 can store banknotes 61 stacked on the third storage unit tray 58 in an unfolded state. The third storage unit tray is a storage unit tray that is arranged in a storage unit that stores banknotes in the third storage unit 83 and on which banknotes are stacked. A pushing member 62 presses down the banknotes 61 stacked on the third storage unit tray 58. The third storage unit tray 58 can be raised and lowered by a third storage unit lifting mechanism 59. The third storage unit tray 58 is kept in a lowered state when storing banknotes 61 and in a raised state when feeding them out. The third storage unit lifting mechanism 59 is a lifting mechanism that raises and lowers the storage unit tray arranged in the storage unit of the third storage unit 83.

[0063] The pushing members 62 are rod-like and arranged parallel to the third storage unit tray 58, and are, for example, flat or cylindrical rods. The pushing members 62 are arranged parallel to each other, one at the front side and one at the back side in the depth direction of the paper surface of FIG. 3, so as to abut against the surface of a banknote when moved up and down. The pushing members 62 abut against both ends of a banknote when raised and lowered. The pushing members 62 rise and lower in the same manner as the third storage unit tray 58. The pushing members 62 are arranged in positions that do not interfere with the abutment portions 63 when raised and lowered. When the third storage unit tray 58 is raised, the third storage unit tray 58 or the stacked banknotes 61 abut against the abutment portions 63, and the lifting stops at the abutment position. Even when the pushing members 62 rise, they are separated from the sides of the abutment portions 63, and can pass by the sides of the abutment portions 63 and rise without abutting. The pushing member 62 can rise to a stop position higher than the stop position of the third storage unit tray 58 .

[0064] The third storage unit tray 58 and the pushing member 62 rise together with the banknotes 61 placed thereon and come into contact with the contact portion 63. The third storage unit tray 58 and the banknotes 61 are prevented from rising when they come into contact with the contact portion 63, but the pushing member 62 continues to rise. As a result, the pushing member 62 bends the banknotes 61 above the pushing member 62, passes around the sides of the banknotes 61, and passes over the banknotes 61. When the pushing member 62 is lowered after rising to a predetermined position, the banknotes 61 placed on the third storage unit tray 58 are held down by the pushing member 62.

[0065] The storing and feeding mechanism 64 includes a feeding motor and a gear mechanism therein, and can rotate the storing and feeding roller shaft 69 forward or reverse. When storing banknotes 61 in the third storage unit 83, the storing and feeding roller shaft 69 is rotated forward, and when feeding banknotes 61 from the third storage unit 83, the storing and feeding roller shaft 69 is rotated reversely. A part of the frame that configures the periphery of the storing and feeding mechanism 64 also serves as the abutment part 63. In other words, the storing and feeding roller 65 is rotatably supported by this frame.

[0066] A storage / feeding roller 65 is fixed to the storage / feeding roller shaft 69, and the storage / feeding roller 65 moves in conjunction with the storage / feeding roller shaft 69. The storage / feeding roller 65 comes into contact with the banknote 61 at the uppermost position and can feed it to the second conveying path 24.

[0067] The rotation shaft of third storage unit drive roller 57 is connected to storage / feeding roller shaft 69 by drive belt 66, and moves in conjunction with storage / feeding roller shaft 69. Third storage unit pinch roller 56 is pressed against third storage unit drive roller 57, and is equipped with a one-way clutch (not shown), which rotates together with third storage unit drive roller 57 when storing banknotes 61 and stops when feeding them out. In other words, third storage unit drive roller 57 and storage / feeding roller 65 move in conjunction with each other. Furthermore, third storage unit drive roller 57 and storage / feeding roller 65 have the same diameter, and are connected by drive belt 66 without increasing or decreasing speed.

[0068] The blades 70 are flexible resin sheets or elastomer sheets that are fixed radially to a rotor that is linked to a storage / feed-out roller shaft 69 (not shown). As the rotor rotates, the rotor with the blades rotates, coming into contact with the banknotes 61 being stored or fed, pushing the banknotes 61 and assisting their transport. The blades can further push out banknotes 61 that have been released from between the third storage unit drive roller 57 and the third storage unit pinch roller 56. The rotor with the blades can also be considered a fifth rotor that constitutes the transport section that stores or feeds banknotes in the third storage unit 83.

[0069] Depending on the rotation direction of the storage / feeding roller shaft 69, the guide arm 67 moves to a retracted position where its tip is positioned between the third storage unit drive roller 57 and the storage / feeding roller 65, and to a guide position where its tip is positioned between the storage / feeding roller 65 and the third storage unit tray 58. The guide arm 67 can move to the guide position shown in Figure 3 and the retracted position shown in Figure 4, which will be described later.

[0070] The retraction position stopper 87 is fixed to a frame (not shown) that supports the storage / feeding roller shaft 69. The guide position stopper 86 is fixed to a frame (not shown) that supports the storage / feeding roller shaft 69. The retraction position stopper 87 and the guide position stopper 86 abut against the guide arm 67. The movement of the guide arm 67 is restricted by the retraction position stopper 87 and the guide position stopper 86. The retraction position stopper 87 and the guide position stopper 86 can define the movement range of the guide arm 67. The position where the guide arm 67 abuts against the retraction position stopper 87 is the retracted position of the guide arm 67. The position where the guide arm 67 abuts against the guide position stopper 86 is the guide position of the guide arm 67. In addition, an auxiliary roller 68 is disposed at the tip of the guide arm 67, and the auxiliary roller 68 moves in conjunction with the storage / feeding roller 65.

[0071] Banknotes 61 stored in the third storage unit 83 from the second transport path 24 are bent at an angle of approximately 90 degrees at the entrance and transported inside the third storage unit 83. The banknotes 61 move upward inside the third storage unit 83 due to their restoring force. The guide arm 67 is arranged to gradually incline from the entrance of the third storage unit 83 toward the back, in a direction approaching the third storage unit tray 58, so as to direct the banknotes 61 moving inside the third storage unit 83 toward the third storage unit tray 58. Furthermore, an auxiliary roller 68 is arranged at the tip, and the banknotes 61 are guided in a direction approaching the third storage unit tray 58 and toward the back.

[0072] The third storage unit drive roller 57 can be said to be a first rotating body that transports banknotes to the storage section of the third storage unit 83 or discharges the banknotes from the storage section, and the storage and feed roller 65 can be said to be a second rotating body that contacts the banknotes in the storage section of the third storage unit 83 and discharges the banknotes from the storage section, and the two rotating bodies transport the banknotes into and out of the third storage unit 83. Furthermore, these rotating bodies may be endless belts instead of rollers.

[0073] Next, the guide arm 67 will be described using Figure 4. Figure 4 is a second diagram illustrating the configuration of the entrance portion of the storage unit of the paper sheet processing device. When storing banknotes 61 in the third storage unit 83, the guide arm 67 is moved to the guide position, and when feeding out, the guide arm 67 is moved to the retracted position.

[0074] The guide arm 67 is not fixed to the storage / feeding roller shaft 69, but is supported so as to be freely rotatable. The center of rotation of the guide arm 67 is the same as the center of rotation of the storage / feeding roller 65. The guide arm 67 rotates around the storage / feeding roller shaft 69. The guide arm 67 is provided with an elongated hole 72, and a connecting roller shaft 73 is supported in the elongated hole 72 so as to be rotatable and movable along the elongated hole 72. A connecting roller 74 is fixed to the connecting roller shaft 73. An auxiliary roller shaft 77 is fixed to the guide arm 67. An auxiliary roller 68 is rotatably supported on the auxiliary roller shaft 77. A spring shaft 76 is fixed to the guide arm 67. A pressure spring 75 is fixed to the spring shaft 76. The pressure spring 75 biases the connecting roller shaft 73 toward both the storage / feeding roller 65 and the auxiliary roller 68. The connecting roller shaft 73 is movable along the elongated hole 72, but is constantly biased by a pressure spring 75 in the direction of both the storage / feed-out roller 65 and the auxiliary roller 68. The roller shaft 71 to which the third storage unit drive roller 57 is fixed is connected to the storage / feed-out roller shaft 69 by a drive belt 66, and moves in conjunction with it.

[0075] The connecting roller 74 is in contact with the storage / feeding roller 65 and the auxiliary roller 68. In other words, by rotating the storage / feeding roller 65, the auxiliary roller 68 can be rotated via the connecting roller 74. Furthermore, depending on the rotation direction of the storage / feeding roller 65, the connecting roller 74 rotates along with the storage / feeding roller 65, and the guide arm 67 rotates about the storage / feeding roller shaft 69. When the storage / feeding roller 65 rotates in the reverse direction, that is, in the feed direction 79 indicated by the arrow, the guide arm 67 moves to the retracted position. A pressing portion 78 at the tip of the guide arm 67 presses the banknotes. When the storage / feeding roller 65 rotates in the reverse direction, that is, in the feed direction 79 indicated by the arrow, the guide arm 67 moves to the retracted position where it does not come into contact with the banknotes 61 between the storage / feeding roller 65 and the third storage unit drive roller 57. In other words, the guide arm 67 moves to a position where it does not come into contact with the banknotes 61. When the storage / feeding roller 65 rotates in the forward direction, the guide arm 67 moves to the guide position. The guide arm 67 can be moved to the retracted position and the guide position and can store or feed the banknotes 61 by controlling the storing and feeding mechanism 64. The diameter of the auxiliary roller 68 is smaller than the diameter of the storing and feeding roller 65. Therefore, the auxiliary roller 68 rotates multiple times during one rotation of the storing and feeding roller 65. By rotating the auxiliary roller 68 at high speed, the banknotes can be suitably guided toward the back of the third storage unit 83. For example, the auxiliary roller 68 can rotate six times during one rotation of the storing and feeding roller 65. The guide arm 67 can be moved to the opposing position and the guide position by the movement mechanism described above.

[0076] When the guide arm 67 is in the guiding position, the banknotes 61 can come into contact with the surface of the guide arm 67 or the auxiliary roller 68 at a position closer to the third storage unit tray 58 than the storage and feed roller 65, without coming into contact with the storage and feed roller 65. The guide arm 67 can transport the banknotes 61 in the rearward direction while restricting the up and down movement of the banknotes 61 inside the third storage unit 83. When storing banknotes 61 in the third storage unit 83, the third storage unit tray 58 is lowered and the storage and feed roller 65 is rotated forward to move the guide arm 67 to the guiding position. Furthermore, the banknotes 61 are guided by the guide arm 67, and are pushed in the rearward direction by the auxiliary roller 68 and the blades 70.

[0077] When the guide arm 67 is in the retracted position, the storage and feed roller 65 comes into contact with the banknote 61. When feeding banknotes 61 from the third storage unit 83, the third storage unit tray 58 is raised to bring the banknote 61 at the top position into contact with the storage and feed roller 65, and the storage and feed roller 65 is rotated in the reverse direction. That is, the storage and feed roller 65 is rotated in the feed direction 79 indicated by the arrow. The frictional force between the storage and feed roller 65 and the banknote 61 causes the leading edge of the banknote 61 to be transported between the third storage unit drive roller 57 and the third storage unit pinch roller 56. The banknote transported between the third storage unit drive roller 57 and the third storage unit pinch roller 56 is transported to the second transport path 24, where it is sandwiched between the second belt 28 and the transport section pinch roller 35 and further transported.

[0078] When the guide arm 67 comes into contact with the retracted position stopper 87 or the guide position stopper 86, the movement of the guide arm 67 stops, and the connecting roller 74 in contact with the rotating storage / feed-out roller 65 is released from the force acting on the movement of the guide arm 67 and instead receives a force acting on the rotation. The same applies when the guide arm 67 is pushed by an external force, for example, when the third storage unit tray 58 is raised while the guide arm 67 is in the guide position.

[0079] The guide arm 67 is provided with a connecting roller 74, which transmits the rotation of the storage and feed roller 65 to the auxiliary roller 68. This connecting roller 74 can also be considered a third rotating body that transmits driving force to a fourth rotating body to transport the banknotes placed in the third storage unit 83. The guide arm 67 is also provided with an auxiliary roller 68 that comes into contact with the banknotes to be stored, and can send the stored banknotes to the back. This auxiliary roller 68 can also be considered a fourth rotating body that transports the banknotes placed in the third storage unit 83. These rotating bodies may be rotating bodies such as endless belts.

[0080] Next, the banknote handling machine 1 will be described with reference to a block diagram. Figure 5 is a block diagram of the paper sheet handling machine.

[0081] The banknote processing device 1 has a control circuit 97, a memory 96, an external IF (interface) 88, a withdrawal port sensor 89, a shutter drive circuit 90, an identification sensor 21, a transport motor drive circuit 91, a deposit port sensor 15, a payout motor drive circuit 92, a lift drive circuit 93, and a storage section entry / exit sensor 94.

[0082] The control circuit 97 includes a CPU, and performs various controls on the entire device according to the programs and setting values ​​stored in the memory 96 .

[0083] The memory 96 includes a ROM for storing programs, initial setting values, etc., a RAM for storing temporary data, a working memory, setting values, etc.

[0084] The external IF 88 transmits and receives signals to and from external devices. The external devices are higher-level devices that issue commands to the banknote processing device 1, such as a control device for a POS system. Via the external IF 88, the control circuit 97 can transmit information it has acquired to the external device, and can also acquire information from the external device. For example, when the POS system instructs the banknote processing device 1 to perform a dispensing process in which a denomination and number of banknotes are specified, the control circuit 97 controls the dispensing of the specified number of banknotes from a storage unit in which banknotes of the specified denomination are stored.

[0085] The dispensing port sensor 89 operates under the control of the control circuit 97. It detects the presence or absence of banknotes sent to the dispensing unit tray 44 (see FIG. 2) for dispensing. The control circuit 97 can acquire a detection signal detected by the dispensing port sensor 89. Based on the acquired detection signal, the control circuit 97 can determine whether or not there are banknotes on the dispensing unit tray 44. The control circuit 97 can use this result for control.

[0086] The shutter drive circuit 90 operates under the control of the control circuit 97. The shutter drive circuit 90 can open and close the shutter 9 (see FIG. 1). For example, after opening the shutter 9, the control circuit 97 can determine whether or not a banknote has been removed by obtaining the detection result of the dispensing port sensor 89. The control circuit 97 can control the shutter 9 to close if a banknote has not been removed for a predetermined time.

[0087] The identification sensor 21 operates under the control of the control circuit 97. The identification sensor 21 detects the characteristics of deposited and transported banknotes and outputs the detection results to the control circuit 97. The control circuit 97 can acquire the detection signal detected by the identification sensor 21. The control circuit 97 can determine the denomination of the banknote based on the acquired detection signal. Data that forms the basis for this determination is stored in the memory 96. The data stored in the memory 96 can be compared with the acquired detection signal to identify the denomination of the banknote. The control circuit 97 can perform various controls based on the identified denomination.

[0088] The transport motor drive circuit 91 operates under the control of the control circuit 97. Under the control of the control circuit 97, the transport motor drive circuit 91 drives transport motors (not shown) that are arranged in transport units that transport banknotes, such as the deposit recognition unit 84, the dispensing unit 85, and the circulating transport unit 60 (see FIG. 2). The driving force of the transport motor is transmitted to the drive units of each unit via gear mechanisms (not shown) and the like.

[0089] The deposit port sensor 15 operates under the control of the control circuit 97. The deposit port sensor 15 detects whether or not there is a banknote in the deposit port 2 (see Figure 1). The control circuit 97 can determine whether or not there is a banknote in the deposit port 2 based on the detection result. The control circuit 97 can use the acquired detection result for control. If there is a banknote in the deposit port 2, the control circuit 97 performs a deposit process, transports the banknote, identifies the denomination, and controls the banknote to be stored in a storage unit according to the identification result. If there is no banknote in the deposit port 2, the deposit process is not performed.

[0090] The payout motor drive circuit 92 operates under the control of the control circuit 97. The payout motor drive circuit 92 can independently drive the payout motors included in each of the first storage unit 81, second storage unit 82, and third storage unit 83. Here, with reference to FIG. 3 as well, the third storage unit 83 will be used as an example for explanation. The payout motor drive circuit 92 drives a payout motor (not shown) included in the storage and payout mechanism 64 under the control of the control circuit 97. By driving the payout motor, banknotes can be stored in the third storage unit 83 and paid out from the storage unit.

[0091] The lift drive circuit 93 operates under the control of the control circuit 97. Under the control of the control circuit 97, the lift drive circuit 93 can independently drive the lifting mechanisms included in each of the first storage unit 81, the second storage unit 82, and the third storage unit 83. Here, with reference to FIG. 3 as well, the third storage unit 83 will be described as an example. Under the control of the control circuit 97, the lift drive circuit 93 drives a lifting motor (not shown) included in the third storage unit lifting mechanism 59. Driving the lifting motor can raise and lower the third storage unit tray 58 and the pushing member 62 of the third storage unit 83. For example, the third storage unit tray 58 and the pushing member 62 can be lowered to a storage position where banknotes are stored. Furthermore, the third storage unit tray 58 and the pushing member 62 can be raised to a feeding position where banknotes are fed.

[0092] The storage unit entrance / exit sensor 94 operates under the control of the control circuit 97. Under the control of the control circuit 97, the storage unit entrance / exit sensor 94 can independently detect banknotes entering and leaving each of the first storage unit 81, second storage unit 82, and third storage unit 83. Here, with reference to FIG. 3 as well, the third storage unit 83 will be used as an example for explanation. The storage unit entrance / exit sensor 94 is disposed near the banknote entrance / exit of the third storage unit 83, and detects banknotes entering and leaving the third storage unit 83 from the second transport path 24. The control circuit 97 can determine the presence or absence of banknotes based on the detection results. The control circuit 97 can use the acquired detection results for control.

[0093] The branch plate drive circuit 95 operates under the control of the control circuit 97. Under the control of the control circuit 97, the branch plate drive circuit 95 independently drives the first branch plate 37, the second branch plate 38, the third branch plate 39, the fourth branch plate 40, and the fifth branch plate 41. For example, the third storage unit 83 will be used as an example. When storing banknotes in the third storage unit 83, the control circuit 97 drives the fifth branch plate 41 and moves it to a position where the banknotes head from the second transport path 24 to the entrance / exit of the third storage unit 83. When feeding banknotes from the third storage unit 83, the control circuit 97 drives the fifth branch plate 41 and moves it to a position where the banknotes head from the entrance / exit of the third storage unit 83 to the second transport path 24. When a banknote is not to be stored in the third storage unit 83 or fed out from the third storage unit 83, the control circuit 97 drives the fifth branching plate 41 to move the fifth branching plate 41 to a position where the banknote passes through the second transport path 24. When storing a banknote, the control circuit 97 drives each of the branching plates 37, 38, 39, 40, and 41 in accordance with the identification result of the denomination of the banknote and the transport position of the banknote to be transported. When feeding out a banknote, the control circuit 97 drives each of the branching plates 37, 38, 39, 40, and 41 in accordance with the denomination of the banknote to be fed and the transport position of the banknote to be transported.

[0094] Next, a paper sheet processing method for storing and feeding banknotes in the banknote processing device 1 will be described. First, the operation of the banknote processing device 1 to store banknotes in a storage unit will be described using FIG. 6, and also FIGS. 1 to 5 as necessary. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating the deposit operation of the paper sheet processing device. Since the first storage unit 81, the second storage unit 82, and the third storage unit 83 perform similar operations, the third storage unit 83 will be used as a representative example for the description. When storing banknotes 61 in the third storage unit 83, the control circuit 97 controls each element in accordance with a program stored in the memory 96.

[0095] In step S1, the control circuit 97 controls the lift drive circuit 93 to lower the third storage unit tray 58 to a predetermined position, such as the lowest position, and creates a gap between the abutment portion 63 and the third storage unit tray 58 or the banknotes 61 stacked thereon to receive the banknotes 61. At this time, the pushing member 62 presses down on the third storage unit tray 58 or the banknotes 61 stacked thereon.

[0096] Next, in step S2, the control circuit 97 controls the feed motor drive circuit 92 to rotate the storage / feed roller shaft 69 in the reverse direction. In response to this reverse rotation of the storage / feed roller shaft 69, the guide arm 67 moves to the guide position. The guide arm 67 can move from the retracted position to the guide position by the storage / feed roller 65 making approximately one-sixth of a rotation. Even when the storage of banknotes and the movement of the guide arm 67 start simultaneously, it is preferable that the guide arm 67 move to the guide position before the banknotes to be stored reach the storage section. When the guide arm 67 moves from the retracted position to the guide position, it is preferable that the movement of the guide arm 67 be completed while the storage / feed roller 65 makes one-sixteenth to one-half rotation. It is preferable that the guide arm 67 be moved from the retracted position to the guide position before the leading edge of the banknote 61 fed from the second transport path 24 to the third storage unit 83 moves to a position where it can come into contact with the guide arm 67.

[0097] Next, in step S3, the control circuit 97 determines whether or not there is a banknote in the deposit port 2. The control circuit 97 acquires the detection result of the deposit port sensor 15 and determines whether or not there is a banknote in the deposit port 2. If there is a banknote in the deposit port 2, the process proceeds to step S4, and if there is not, the process proceeds to step S6.

[0098] Next, in step S4, the control circuit 97 drives the transport motor drive circuit 91 to transport the banknotes placed in the deposit slot 2.

[0099] Next, in step S5, the control circuit 97 identifies the denomination of the banknotes and moves each of the branching plates 37, 38, 39, 40, and 41 to a storage unit that stores the banknotes according to the denomination, thereby forming a transport path for the banknotes to the storage unit. The banknotes are guided to the deposit / withdrawal port of the storage unit that corresponds to the denomination and stored in that storage unit. Steps S3 to S5 are repeated until there are no more banknotes in the deposit port 2.

[0100] Next, in step S6, the control circuit 97 determines whether all banknotes have been stored. The control circuit 97 determines that the last banknote whose denomination was identified has entered the deposit / withdrawal slot of the storage unit corresponding to the denomination, and that a predetermined time has passed since entry, indicating that the storage process has ended. If the storage of banknotes has been completed, the process proceeds to step S7. If the storage of banknotes has not been completed, the process proceeds to step S4.

[0101] Next, in step S7, since the storage of the banknotes has been completed, the control circuit 97 controls the transport motor drive circuit 91 to stop the transport motor, thereby stopping the transport of the banknotes.

[0102] Next, in step S8, the control circuit 97 controls the feeding motor drive circuit 92 to stop the rotation of the storage / feeding roller shaft 69.

[0103] Next, in step S9, the control circuit 97 controls the lift drive circuit 93 to raise and lower the third storage unit tray 58 and the pushing member 62, and the banknotes stacked on the third storage unit tray 58 are pressed down from above by the pushing member 62. The guide arm 67 is pushed by the banknotes stacked on the third storage unit tray 58 and moved to the retracted position.

[0104] Next, the operation of the banknote processing device 1 to feed banknotes from the storage units will be described using FIG. 7, and also FIGS. 1 to 5 as necessary. FIG. 7 is a flowchart explaining the dispensing operation of the paper sheet processing device. Since the first storage unit 81, second storage unit 82, and third storage unit 83 perform similar operations, the third storage unit 83 will be used as a representative example for the explanation. When feeding banknotes 61 from the third storage unit 83, the control circuit 97 controls each element in accordance with a program stored in the memory 96.

[0105] In step S10, the control circuit 97 controls the payout motor drive circuit 92 to rotate the storage / payout roller shaft 69 in the forward direction. In response to this forward rotation of the storage / payout roller shaft 69, the guide arm 67 moves to the retracted position. After moving the guide arm 67 to the retracted position, the control circuit 97 controls the payout motor drive circuit 92 to stop the rotation of the storage / payout roller shaft 69.

[0106] Next, in step S11, the control circuit 97 controls the lift drive circuit 93 to raise the third storage unit tray 58 to a predetermined position, such as the payout position, and brings the abutment portion 63 into contact with the third storage unit tray 58 or the banknotes 61 stacked on it.

[0107] Next, in step S12, the control circuit 97 drives the transport motor drive circuit 91. The banknotes on the transport path are transported.

[0108] Next, in step S13, the control circuit 97 moves each of the branch plates 37, 38, 39, 40, 41 from the storage unit that stores the banknotes to the withdrawal port 3 according to the denomination to be dispensed, thereby forming a transport path for the banknotes from the storage unit to the withdrawal port. Furthermore, the control circuit 97 controls the feed motor drive circuit 92 to rotate the storage and feed roller shaft 69 in the forward direction. In response to this forward rotation of the storage and feed roller shaft 69, the storage and feed roller 65 and the third storage section drive roller rotate in the forward direction, and the banknotes are transported from the third storage unit 83 to the second transport path 24.

[0109] Next, in step S14, the control circuit 97 determines whether the dispensing of banknotes has ended or is continuing. If it is continuing, the process proceeds to step S13; if it has ended, the process proceeds to step S15. The number of banknotes of each denomination to be dispensed is instructed from the host device, and the specified number of banknotes of each denomination are dispensed in order from the storage unit. The control circuit 97 can obtain the number of dispensed banknotes from the storage unit inlet / outlet sensor 94, and can determine that the specified number of banknotes have been dispensed. The control circuit 97 can determine the timing at which the banknotes dispensed from the storage unit reach the withdrawal port 3 based on the elapsed time, etc.

[0110] Next, in step S15, the control circuit 97 controls the feeding motor drive circuit 92 to stop the rotation of the storage / feeding roller shaft 69.

[0111] Next, in step S16, since the feeding of the banknotes has been completed, the control circuit 97 controls the transport motor drive circuit 91 to stop the rotation of the transport motor, thereby stopping the transport of the banknotes.

[0112] The transport of the banknotes from the storage unit to the dispensing port 3 is completed. [Explanation of symbols]

[0113] 1. Banknote processing device 2 Deposit port 3 Withdrawal port 4 Rear case 5 Front case 6. Rock 7 1st indicator light 8 2nd indicator light 9. Shutter 10 First Information Board 11 Second Information Board 12 Presser plate 13 Spring 14 First separation roller 15 Deposit port sensor 16 Second separation roller 17 Third separation roller 18. Receipt pulley 19. Deposit section conveyor belt 20 Pinch roller for deposit section 21 Identification sensor 22 Deposit section deposit and withdrawal guide 23 First conveying route 24 Second conveying path 25 First curved conveying path 26 Second curved conveying path 27 First Belt 28 Second Belt 29 First driven pulley 30 First drive pulley 31 Second driven pulley 32 Second drive pulley 33 Tension roller 34 Transmission Belt 35 Pinch roller for conveying section 36 Support roller 37 First branch plate 38 Second branch plate 39 Third branch plate 40 4th branch plate 41 5th branch board 42 Dispensing unit belt 43 Dispensing unit roller 44 Dispensing unit tray 45 1st storage unit pinch roller 46 First storage unit drive roller 47 First storage unit tray 48 First storage unit lifting mechanism 49 Reject unit drive roller 50 Reject unit pinch roller 51 Reject unit tray 52 Second storage unit pinch roller 53 Second storage unit drive roller 54 Second storage unit tray 55 Second storage unit lifting mechanism 56 Third storage unit pinch roller 57 Third storage unit drive roller 58 Third Storage Unit Tray 59 Third storage unit lifting mechanism 60 Circulating Transport Unit 61 banknotes 62 Push-in member 63 Contact part 64 Storage and payout mechanism 65 Storage and feeding roller 66 Drive belt 67 Guide Arm 68 Auxiliary roller 69 Storage and payout roller shaft 70 Feather 71 Roller shaft 72 long hole 73 Connecting roller shaft 74 Connected Roller 75 Compression spring 76 Spring shaft 77 Auxiliary roller shaft 78 Pressing part 79 Payout direction 80 reject units 81 First Storage Unit 82 Second Storage Unit 83 Third Storage Unit 84 Deposit Identification Unit 85 Withdrawal Units 86 Guide position stopper 87 Retract position stopper

Claims

1. a conveyance path having a conveyance mechanism for conveying paper sheets; a storage unit connected to the conveyance path, for stacking and storing the paper sheets taken in from the conveyance path, or for feeding the stacked and stored paper sheets to the conveyance path; a first rotating body disposed between the storage unit and the conveyance path, which moves the paper sheets in a direction to store the paper sheets in the storage unit or in a direction to feed the paper sheets; a second rotating body that comes into contact with a surface of the paper sheet stored in the storage unit and moves the paper sheet in a direction toward the first rotating body; a guide arm that contacts the paper sheets transported from the transport path to the storage unit to prevent the paper sheets from contacting the second rotating body and guides the paper sheets to the back of the storage unit; a movement mechanism that, when storing the paper sheets from the transport path into the storage unit, moves the guide arm to a guide position that prevents contact between the paper sheets and the second rotating body and guides the paper sheets to the back of the storage unit, and, when feeding the paper sheets from the storage unit to the transport path, moves the guide arm to a retracted position that does not contact the paper sheets in the storage unit; A paper sheet processing apparatus comprising:

2. the guide arm is rotatably supported on a rotation shaft so that the rotation center thereof coincides with the rotation center of the second rotating body, The moving mechanism includes: a third rotor that is rotatably supported by the guide arm and biased toward the second rotor; 2. The paper sheet processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the third rotating body rotates in response to rotation of the second rotating body, and the guide arm supporting the third rotating body moves in response to the rotation of the third rotating body.

3. a fourth rotor rotatably supported by the guide arm; the third rotating body is biased toward both the second rotating body and the fourth rotating body, The paper sheet processing apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the fourth rotating body rotates in conjunction with the second rotating body via the third rotating body.

4. a spring fixed to the guide arm; The guide arm has a slot, the third rotating body is biased toward the second rotating body and the fourth rotating body by the spring, 4. The paper sheet processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the third rotor is supported so as to be movable along the slot and rotatable.

5. a retracted position stopper and a guide position stopper that are fixed to predetermined positions on a frame that supports the rotation shaft and that come into contact with the guide arm; When the guide arm abuts against the retracted position stopper, the guide arm stops at the retracted position, 5. The paper sheet processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein when the guide arm abuts against the guide position stopper, the guide arm stops at the guide position.

6. The storage unit is a storage tray on which the paper sheets are stacked and placed; a lifting mechanism that lifts and lowers the storage unit tray to a storage position where the stacked and stored paper sheets are separated from the second rotating body and a delivery position where the second rotating body comes into contact with the stacked and stored paper sheets, The first rotating body and the second rotating body are interlocked with each other, When the paper sheets are to be stored in the storage unit from the conveyance path, the storage unit tray is lowered to a storage position by the lifting mechanism before the second rotating body is rotated; 5. A paper sheet processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the paper sheets are fed from the storage unit to the conveying path, the lifting mechanism raises the storage unit tray to the feed position before rotating the second rotating body.

7. 5. The paper sheet processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a fifth rotating body having a plurality of radially arranged flexible sheets that rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the first rotating body, come into contact with the paper sheets, and urge the paper sheets in the direction of storing or paying out the paper sheets in the storage section.

8. an entrance connected to the transport path and receiving the paper sheets; a recognition unit that is disposed midway along the conveyance path and detects characteristics of the paper sheets received from the entrance and recognizes the paper sheets, 5. The paper sheet processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the paper sheets are stored in the storage unit in accordance with the recognition result of the recognition unit.

9. a conveyance path having a conveyance mechanism for conveying paper sheets; a storage unit connected to the conveyance path, for stacking and storing the paper sheets taken in from the conveyance path, or for feeding the stacked and stored paper sheets to the conveyance path; a first rotating body disposed between the storage unit and the conveyance path, which moves the paper sheets in a direction to store the paper sheets in the storage unit or in a direction to feed the paper sheets; a second rotating body that moves in conjunction with the first rotating body, comes into contact with the surface of the paper sheets stored in the storage unit, and moves the paper sheets in a direction toward the first rotating body; a guide arm that comes into contact with a surface of the paper sheet transported from the transport path to the storage unit, prevents the paper sheet from contacting the second rotating body, and guides the paper sheet to the back of the storage unit; a movement mechanism that moves the guide arm to a guide position where the guide arm guides the paper sheets toward the back of the storage unit and a retracted position where the guide arm does not come into contact with the paper sheets in the storage unit, depending on the rotation direction of the first rotating body or the second rotating body; a lifting mechanism that lowers a storage tray on which the paper sheets are stacked and placed to a storage position where the stored paper sheets are separated from the second rotating body, or that lifts the storage tray to a delivery position where the stored paper sheets come into contact with the second rotating body; a drive mechanism that drives the first rotating body, the second rotating body, and the moving mechanism, which are interlocked with each other; a control circuit for controlling the drive mechanism and the lifting mechanism; and When the paper sheet is stored in the storage unit from the conveying path, lowering the storage tray to the storage position; moving the guide arm to a guide position; and a step of driving the first rotating body, the second rotating body, and the guide arm when the storage unit tray is in the storage position, thereby storing the paper sheets, When the paper sheet is fed from the storage unit to the conveying path, raising the storage tray to the extension position; moving the guide arm to a retracted position; a step of driving the first rotating body and the second rotating body when the storage section tray is in the feeding position, and feeding out the paper sheets.

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