Bill processing device

Abstract

To provide a bill processing device whose size in a depth direction can be downsized, and whose maintenance of a conveyance passage is facilitated.SOLUTION: A bill processing device 1 comprises a circulating conveyance passage capable of circularly conveying bills. According to the circulating conveyance passage, a linear first conveyance passage 23, and a linear second conveyance passage 24 opposed to the first conveyance passage 23 are connected to each other by a first curved conveyance passage 25 at an upper portion, and by a second curved conveyance passage 26 at a lower portion, respectively. The bill processing device 1 is downsized in a depth direction thereof by making the circulating conveyance passage corner-round rectangular. Further, the linear first conveyance passage 23 and second conveyance passage 24 are formed by a circulating conveyance unit 61, and a front unit and a rear unit each opposed to the circulating conveyance unit. A bill conveyance passage is constituted in an exposable manner by arranging the front unit and the circulating conveyance unit 61, as well as the circulating conveyance unit 61 and the rear unit in a contactable / separable manner.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a banknote handling apparatus that receives and discharges banknotes. [Background technology]

[0002] A banknote processing device is, for example, a device that accepts, stores, counts, and discharges banknotes.

[0003] A banknote processing device includes a deposit port that receives banknotes, a withdrawal port that discharges banknotes, a transport path that transports the banknotes, a recognition unit that identifies the denomination of the banknotes, a sorting unit that sorts the banknotes by denomination, and a banknote storage device that stores or dispenses stored banknotes by denomination. Such a banknote processing device receives banknotes through the deposit port and identifies the denomination of the banknotes using the recognition unit located along the transport path. The banknotes whose denominations have been identified are sorted by the sorting unit located along the transport path and stored in the banknote storage device by denomination. When dispensing banknotes, the banknote processing device dispenses banknotes of a specified denomination and number from the banknote storage device, transports them to the withdrawal port, and dispenses them. Banknote processing devices are used in currency exchange machines and change dispensers.

[0004] For example, Japanese Patent No. 6357382 discloses a banknote processing device that includes a transport path that circulates and transports banknotes, and that is connected to a banknote receiving port, a banknote taking-out port, and a banknote storage unit. This banknote processing device is covered with a case and is equipped with a mechanism that allows the internal device to be pulled out from the case, allowing workers to access the inside of the device to perform work such as maintenance.

[0005] In conventional banknote processing devices, the banknote receiving port unit and the banknote take-out port unit are located at the front of the device. The banknote storage unit is located at the back of the device. A transport unit equipped with a cylindrical banknote circulating transport unit is located in the center of the device. Banknotes can circulate in the circulating transport unit. Each unit is connected to the banknote transport unit, and banknotes enter and exit each unit from the transport unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6357382 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] There is a demand for banknote processing devices that are small in size so that they can be used in small spaces such as on a desk, and that allow for easy maintenance.

[0008] Because the circulating conveying unit housed inside the banknote conveying unit is cylindrical, the size of the device in the depth direction is large. Furthermore, the conveying unit includes a connecting conveying unit that connects the circulating conveying unit to functional units such as the banknote storage unit, which increases the size of the device in the depth direction. Furthermore, the connecting conveying paths connected to the functional units are a mixture of sharply curved and gently curved paths. A sharply curved conveying path is more likely to cause a jam than a gently curved conveying path. Furthermore, because the circulating conveying unit is cylindrical, there was insufficient space to locate the connecting conveying path, resulting in a connecting conveying path with a sharp curve. Furthermore, because the circulating conveying unit is housed inside the conveying unit, the conveying path is thought to be difficult to maintain.

[0009] The present invention provides a banknote processing device that can reduce the size of the banknote processing device in the depth direction and can transport banknotes in an optimal manner by reducing the size of the circular transport path that circulates banknotes. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] The banknote processing device of the present invention is a banknote processing device that stores banknotes received from an inlet in a storage unit corresponding to each denomination, and feeds the banknotes from the storage unit and discharges them from a dispensing port, and has a base stored in a housing, a rear unit fixed to the base, a circulating transport unit arranged so that one end in the longitudinal direction can swing relative to the base as a free end, and a front unit arranged so as to be slidable relative to the base, and the front unit and the circulating transport unit can be separated and connected by sliding the front unit, and by separating the front unit and the circulating transport unit, The first conveying path is exposed and connected to form a linear first conveying path along which the banknotes can be conveyed, and the circulating conveying unit and the rear unit can be separated and connected by swinging the circulating conveying unit, and by separating them a second conveying path is exposed, and by connecting them a linear second conveying path along which the banknotes can be conveyed is formed, the first conveying path and the second conveying path are arranged in parallel, and the circulating conveying unit has a curved conveying path connecting each end of the first conveying path and the second conveying path, and when the front unit, the circulating conveying unit and the rear unit are connected, the banknotes can be conveyed. A banknote processing device according to another aspect of the present invention includes a deposit recognition unit having a deposit port for receiving banknotes, a separation unit for separating the received banknotes one by one, and a recognition sensor for identifying the denominations of the separated banknotes one by one, a plurality of storage units for storing the banknotes, a dispensing unit having a dispensing port for discharging the banknotes to the outside, and a circular transport path for transporting the banknotes in a circular manner, the circular transport path including a linear first transport path, a linear second transport path disposed opposite to the first transport path, and a connecting end portion on one side of the first transport path and an end portion on one side of the second transport path. a first curved conveying path that connects the other end of the first conveying path and has a curved portion, and a second curved conveying path that connects the other end of the first conveying path and the other end of the second conveying path and has a curved portion, and the banknote conveying path in the deposit recognition unit, the banknote conveying path in the storage unit, and the banknote conveying path in the dispensing unit are connected to either the first conveying path or the second conveying path, which are linear portions of the circular conveying path, and the first conveying path includes a first belt that contacts one side of the banknote and supports the banknote, and a first pin that is biased in the direction of the first belt the banknote is conveyed while being sandwiched between the first belt and the first pinch roller, the second conveyance path includes a second belt that contacts the one side of the banknote and supports the banknote, and a second pinch roller that is urged in the direction of the second belt, the banknote is conveyed while being sandwiched between the second belt and the second pinch roller, a front unit including the deposit recognition unit and the withdrawal unit, the first curved conveyance path, the second curved conveyance path, and a circular conveyance unit including the first belt and the second belt that support the one side of the banknote and a rear unit including at least one of the storage units, and a base frame arranged separately so as to be connectable, the first pinch roller is arranged in the front unit, the first belt is arranged in the circulating transport unit, and by connecting the front unit and the circulating transport unit, the first transport path is formed in which the first pinch roller and the first belt come into contact, the second pinch roller is arranged in the rear unit, the second belt is arranged in the circulating transport unit, and by connecting the rear unit and the circulating transport unit,The second pinch roller and the second belt form the second conveying path in contact with each other, and the front unit is movable toward and away from the circulating conveying unit, and the circulating conveying unit is movable toward and away from the rear unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a banknote handling device that can reduce the size of the circular transport path along which banknotes are circulated and that can transport banknotes in an optimal manner. Furthermore, it is possible to configure a transport path with a high degree of freedom in the arrangement of components that make up the banknote transport path, thereby enabling the banknote handling device to be reduced in size. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the internal configuration of a banknote handling apparatus. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the banknote handling machine. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a first diagram illustrating the configuration of the banknote handling machine. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a second diagram illustrating the configuration of the banknote handling machine. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a first diagram illustrating an overview of the functional units of the banknote processing device. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a second diagram illustrating an outline of the functional units of the banknote processing device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to Figures 1 to 6. 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. Furthermore, in each figure, common or similar components are given the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations thereof will be omitted.

[0014] The following description will be given of a banknote processing device that processes banknotes. Instead of banknotes, the banknote processing device can also process paper sheets similar to banknotes, such as securities, checks, and other valuable documents, as well as paper or resin sheets of a predetermined size.

[0015] First, the external appearance of the banknote processing device 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 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. Banknotes inserted in a stacked state 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 pulled out from the rear case 4. A lock 6 secures the front case 5 to the rear case 4 and restricts the front case 5 from being pulled out from the rear case 4. Access to the interior of the banknote processing device 1 is restricted by the lock 6. The lock 6 is unlocked with a key corresponding to the lock 6. A first indicator light 7 is lit when a banknote is present in the deposit slot 2, and a second indicator light 8 is lit 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.

[0016] Next, each functional unit housed in the case of the banknote handling machine will be described with reference to Figs.

[0017] Fig. 3 is a first diagram illustrating the configuration of the banknote processing device. Fig. 3 shows a state in which each functional unit is stored in a case. Fig. 3 is a diagram of the banknote processing device 1 as seen from the side.

[0018] 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 recognition unit 84 that receives banknotes and identifies their denominations, a dispensing unit 85 that dispenses banknotes, a first storage unit 86 that stores and dispenses banknotes of a first denomination, a reject unit 87 that stores banknotes to be collected, a circulating transport unit 61 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 Japanese yen note, the second denomination is a 1,000 yen note, the third denomination is a 5,000 yen note, and the collected banknotes are 2,000 yen notes.

[0019] The deposit recognition unit 84, the dispensing unit 85, the first storage unit 86, the reject unit 87, and the front case 5 are fixed to a slide frame 78. A deposit port 2 and a dispensing port 3 are arranged in the front case 5. The deposit recognition unit 84 includes the deposit port 2, and the dispensing unit 85 includes the dispensing port 3. The deposit recognition unit 84, the dispensing unit 85, the first storage unit 86, and the reject unit 87 functional units fixed to the slide frame 78 are collectively referred to as the front unit 60. The second rail 77 is arranged along the depth direction of the banknote processing device 1. The slide frame 78 slides along the second rail 77 in the depth direction of the banknote processing device 1, that is, left and right in the plane of FIG. 3.

[0020] The circulating conveying unit 61 is rotatably attached to the central unit support part 79 via a rotation shaft 81. The circulating conveying unit 61 includes a first conveying path 23 that linearly conveys banknotes, a second conveying path 24 that linearly conveys banknotes arranged opposite the first conveying path 23, and a first curved conveying path 25 and a second curved conveying path 26 that connect the first conveying path 23 and the second conveying path 24. The first conveying path 23 includes a first belt 27 that is looped around a pulley. The second conveying path 24 includes a second belt 28 that is looped around a pulley. The first belt 27 and the second belt 28 rotate in conjunction with each other. Banknotes are conveyed while being sandwiched between a pinch roller and the first belt 27 or a pinch roller and the second belt 28, which will be described later. When the banknotes are conveyed in a circular manner, the banknotes are conveyed along the first conveying path 23, the second curved conveying path 26, the second conveying path 24, the first curved conveying path 25, and the first conveying path 23 in this order.

[0021] The second storage unit 82 and the third storage unit 83 are fixed to the rear unit support part 80. The second storage unit 82 and the third storage unit 83 fixed to the rear unit support part 80 are collectively referred to as the rear unit 62.

[0022] The bill passages in each of the deposit recognition unit 84, the dispensing unit 85, the first storage unit 86, and the reject unit 87 are connected to the first transport path 23. The bill passages in each of the second storage unit 82 and the third storage unit 83 are connected to the second transport path 24.

[0023] The rear unit support part 80, the middle unit support part 79, and the second rail 77 are fixed to the base frame 64. The base frame 64 has an engagement part (not shown) that movably engages with the first rail 63, and the base frame 64 can be moved along the first rail 63. The first rail 63 is arranged along the depth direction of the banknote processing device 1, and the first rail 63 and the rear case 4 are fixed, and by moving the base frame 64, each functional unit fixed to the base frame 64 can be moved into or out of the rear case 4.

[0024] Fig. 4 is a second diagram illustrating the configuration of the banknote processing device. Fig. 4 shows a state in which each functional unit is removed from the case. Fig. 4 is a diagram of the banknote processing device 1 as viewed from the side.

[0025] The path for transporting banknotes in the first transport path 23 is sandwiched between a first transport surface 89 facing one side of the banknote and a second transport surface 90 facing the other side of the banknote. The path for transporting banknotes in the second transport path 24 is sandwiched between a third transport surface 91 facing one side of the banknote and a fourth transport surface 92 facing the other side of the banknote.

[0026] The first conveying surface 89 is provided with the banknote inlet / outlet for each functional unit of the front unit 60. The second conveying surface 90 is provided with the first belt 27. The third conveying surface 91 is provided with the banknote inlet / outlet for each functional unit of the rear unit 62. The fourth conveying surface 92 is provided with the second belt 28. The banknote conveying direction of the first conveying path 23 and the second conveying path 24 intersects at an angle of approximately 90 degrees with the banknote conveying direction within each functional unit.

[0027] When the front unit 60 and the circulating conveying unit 61 are connected and coupled, the first conveying surface 89 and the second conveying surface 90 face each other to form the first conveying path 23. When the rear unit 62 and the circulating conveying unit 61 are connected and coupled, the third conveying surface 91 and the fourth conveying surface 92 face each other to form the second conveying path 24.

[0028] The circulating conveying unit 61 can be rotated around the rotation axis 81. The upright position 88 of the circulating conveying unit 61, indicated by the dashed line, shows the state in which the circulating conveying unit 61 and the rear unit 62 are connected and coupled. The circulating conveying unit 61, indicated by the solid line, is in a state in which it is tilted toward the front case 5 around the rotation axis 81, showing the state in which the rear unit 62 and the circulating conveying unit 61 are separated. In this state, the third conveying surface 91 and the fourth conveying surface 92 are separated, so that banknotes jammed in the second conveying path 24 can be removed. The second belt 28 and the pinch roller are separated, so that banknotes can be easily removed. In the example, a mechanism for rotating the circulating conveying unit 61 has been described, but a sliding mechanism using rails may also be used.

[0029] The front unit 60 can be moved along the second rail 77 to separate the front unit 60 from the circulating transport unit 61. In this state, the first transport surface 89 and the second transport surface 90 are separated, so that banknotes jammed in the first transport path 23 can be removed. The first belt 27 and the pinch roller are separated, so that banknotes can be easily removed.

[0030] The banknote handling device 1 is equipped with a slide mechanism and a rotation mechanism for moving the functional units, and facilitates maintenance of the banknote transport paths by exposing the first transport path 23 and the second transport path 24. Furthermore, since the first curved transport path 25 and the second curved transport path 26 are not provided with a mechanism for clamping and transporting banknotes, jammed banknotes can be easily removed.

[0031] The front unit 60 is equipped with a first maintenance door 65, and the rear unit 62 is equipped with a second maintenance door 66 and a third maintenance door 67, which can be opened and closed. Opening the first maintenance door 65 allows maintenance work to be performed on the first storage unit 86 and the reject unit 87 arranged in the front unit 60. Opening the second maintenance door 66 allows maintenance work to be performed on the second storage unit 82 arranged in the rear unit 62. Opening the third maintenance door 67 allows maintenance work to be performed on the third storage unit 83 arranged in the rear unit 62.

[0032] Next, the main configuration of the banknote handling machine 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a diagram illustrating the internal configuration of the banknote handling machine. Fig. 1 is a diagram of the banknote handling machine 1 as seen from the side.

[0033] 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. The withdrawal slot 3 is equipped with a shutter 9. 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.

[0034] The deposit recognition unit 84 is a unit that accepts banknotes, separates them one by one, identifies the denomination of each separated banknote, and transports them to the next process. The longitudinal direction of the banknote is the left-to-right direction in the figure, and the banknote is inserted from the deposit slot 2 towards the back of the deposit recognition unit 84, that is, towards the right in the figure, and transported.

[0035] An opening is formed in the front case 5, and a deposit slot 2 for inserting bills is disposed therein.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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 sensor 15 is a sensor that detects the presence or absence of banknotes.

[0038] 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 are shifted along the curved surface of the third separation roller 17 and come into contact with it. The leading edges of banknotes closer to the first guide plate 10 are located further back in the banknote transport path.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] The identification sensor 21 is disposed in the area between the deposit section pinch rollers 20 disposed at both ends. The identification sensor 21 is a sensor for identifying the denomination of deposited banknotes. The denomination of banknotes transported by the deposit section pinch rollers 20 and the deposit section transport belt 19 is identified by the identification sensor 21. The portion where this identification sensor 21 is disposed is referred to as the identification section. Depending on the denomination identified by the identification sensor 21, banknotes are stored or discharged.

[0042] The deposit section entrance / exit guide 22 is a curved conveyance path for allowing banknotes to enter the linear first conveyance path 23. The deposit recognition unit is connected to the first conveyance path 23 by the deposit section entrance / exit guide 22.

[0043] Next, the circulating transport unit 61 that constitutes the circulating transport path along which the banknotes are transported in a circulating manner will be described.

[0044] 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. A circular conveying path along which banknotes are circulated is formed by the first conveying path 23, the second curved conveying path 26, the second conveying path 24, and the first curved conveying path 25.

[0045] The first curved conveying path 25 and the second curved conveying path 26 are not provided with a driving 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 driving 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, by making the first curved conveying path 25 or the second curved conveying path 26 a rounded trapezoidal conveying path, the vertical length of the circular conveying path can be shortened. 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.

[0046] In addition to a banknote deposit recognition unit 84, a dispensing unit 85 that dispenses banknotes, a first storage unit 86 that stores banknotes of a first denomination, and a reject unit 87 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 in either the deposit recognition unit 84, the dispensing unit 85, the first storage unit 86, or the reject unit 87. 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 86. Furthermore, the second branching plate 38 guides banknotes from the first storage unit 86 to the first transport path 23 for withdrawal. The third branching plate 39 either moves the banknotes moving on the first transport path 23 in a straight line or guides them to the reject unit 87. The first branching plate 37, the second branching plate 38, and the third branching plate 39 are driven by actuators (not shown) to move the banknotes in a desired direction.

[0047] 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 in 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, the fifth branching plate 41 guides banknotes from the third storage unit 83 to the second transport path 24 for dispensing. The fourth branching plate 40 and the fifth branching plate 41 are driven by actuators (not shown) to move the banknotes in a desired direction.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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 86, and the reject unit 87.

[0050] 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.

[0051] The first belt 27 and the second belt 28 are interlocked by a driving force transmitted by a transmission belt 34 wound around a pulley (not shown) fixed to the rotation shaft of the first drive pulley 30 and disposed in the depth direction of the drawing, and a pulley (not shown) fixed to the rotation shaft of the second drive pulley 32 and disposed 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.

[0052] In order to reduce the depth of the banknote processing device 1, the banknote circulating transport path is formed in a vertically long rectangular shape with rounded corners when viewed from the side of the banknote processing device 1. In the figure, the left-right direction is the depth direction 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 circulating 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 61. This allows the size of the circulating transport unit 61 in the depth direction of the banknote processing device 1 to be reduced.

[0053] Next, the dispensing unit 85 will be described.

[0054] 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.

[0055] The first branching plate 37 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 dispensing port 3. The dispensing unit belt 42 and dispensing unit rollers 43 are driven to transport the banknotes guided by the first branching plate 37 to the dispensing unit tray 44. A pinch roller (not shown) is arranged 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 dispensing unit belt 42 rotates to transport the banknotes to the dispensing unit tray 44. The dispensing unit roller 43 is equipped with multiple flexible wings, and the banknotes transported by the dispensing unit belt 42 and the pinch roller are thrown by the wings and piled up 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 removed to the outside through the dispensing port 3.

[0056] Next, the first storage unit 86 will be described.

[0057] The first storage unit 86 can store banknotes of a first denomination in a stacked state and can discharge the stored banknotes one by one.

[0058] The second branch plate 38 is driven to one of the following positions: a position to guide the banknotes from the first conveying path 23 to the first storage unit 86, a position to convey the banknotes along the first conveying path 23, and a position to guide the banknotes from the first storage unit 86 to the first conveying path 23, and the banknotes are conveyed according to the position.

[0059] When storing banknotes in the first storage unit 86, the second branch plate 38 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 first storage unit tray 47. The first storage unit drive roller 45 is driven by a motor (not shown) and stores and discharges banknotes by changing its direction of rotation. The first storage unit pinch roller 46 is urged toward the first storage unit drive roller 45, pinches banknotes together with the first storage unit drive roller 45, and transports the pinched banknotes. Depending on the rotation direction of the first storage unit drive roller 45, 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 pile on the first storage unit tray 47.

[0060] When sending banknotes from the first storage unit 86 to the first transport path 23, the second branch plate 38 is driven to change the guide direction of the banknotes, and the banknotes are guided from the first storage unit 86 to the first transport path 23. The first storage unit drive roller 45 rotates in the direction in which the banknotes are discharged, and pinches the banknotes together with the first storage unit pinch roller 46, and transports the pinched banknotes to the first transport path 23. The banknotes are pinched between the support roller 36 and the transport section pinch roller 35, and transported within the first transport path 23.

[0061] 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 45 and the first storage unit pinch roller 46.

[0062] Next, the reject unit 87 will be described.

[0063] The reject unit 87 can store bills of the denomination to be collected in a stacked state, for example, old bills and bills with low circulation.

[0064] The third branch plate 39 is driven to either a position where it guides banknotes from the first conveying path 23 to the reject unit 87, or a position where it conveys banknotes along the first conveying path 23, and the banknotes are conveyed according to that position.

[0065] When storing banknotes in the reject unit 87, 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 together with the reject unit drive roller 49, pinches the banknotes and transports the pinched banknotes to the reject unit tray 51. The transported banknotes are stacked on top of the reject unit tray 51 and stored.

[0066] Next, the second storage unit 82 will be described.

[0067] 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.

[0068] The fourth branch plate 40 is driven to one of the following positions: a position to guide banknotes from the second conveying path 24 to the second storage unit 82, a position to convey banknotes along the second conveying path 24, and a position to guide banknotes from the second storage unit 82 to the second conveying path 24, and the banknotes are conveyed according to the position.

[0069] 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 52 is driven by a motor (not shown) and stores and discharges banknotes by changing its direction of rotation. The second storage unit pinch roller 53 is urged toward the second storage unit drive roller 52 and, together with the second storage unit drive roller 52, 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.

[0070] When sending banknotes from the second storage unit 82 to the second transport path 24, the fourth branch plate 40 is driven to change the guide direction of the banknotes and guide the banknotes in the banknote transport direction of the second transport path 24. The second storage unit drive roller 52 rotates in the direction in which the banknotes are discharged, and pinches the banknotes together with the second storage unit pinch roller 53 to transport the pinched banknotes to the second transport path 24. The banknotes are pinched between the support roller 36 and the transport section pinch roller 35 and transported within the second transport path 24.

[0071] 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 banknotes and sends them between the second storage unit drive roller 52 and the second storage unit pinch roller 53.

[0072] Next, the third storage unit 83 will be described.

[0073] 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.

[0074] The fifth branch plate 41 is driven to one of the following positions: a position to guide banknotes from the second conveying path 24 to the third storage unit 83, a position to convey banknotes along the second conveying path 24, and a position to guide banknotes from the third storage unit 83 to the second conveying path 24, and the banknotes are conveyed according to the position.

[0075] 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 56 is driven by a motor (not shown) and stores and discharges banknotes by changing its direction of rotation. The third storage unit pinch roller 57 is urged toward the third storage unit drive roller 56 and, together with the third storage unit drive roller 56, 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.

[0076] When sending banknotes from the third storage unit 83 to the second transport path 24, the fifth branch plate 41 is driven to change the direction in which the banknotes are guided, and the banknotes are guided in the banknote transport direction of the second transport path 24. The third storage unit drive roller 56 rotates in the direction in which the banknotes are discharged, and pinches the banknotes together with the third storage unit pinch roller 57 to transport the pinched banknotes to the second transport path 24. The banknotes are pinched between the support roller 36 and the transport section pinch roller 35, and transported within the second transport path 24.

[0077] 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 56 and the third storage unit pinch roller 57. Fig. 5 is a first diagram illustrating an outline of the functional units of the banknote handling machine 1. Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating the banknote handling machine 1 as seen from the side.

[0078] The front unit 60, circulating transport unit 61, and rear unit 62 can be connected. The rear unit 62 is equipped with a rear frame 68 that secures the functional unit. The rear frame 68 is equipped with a fixed shaft 69 and a fixed lever 70 that is rotatably supported on the shaft 69. The fixed lever 70 is equipped with a first recess 73 and a second recess 76. The circulating transport unit 61 is equipped with a middle frame 71 that secures the functional unit. The middle frame 71 is equipped with a middle locking protrusion 72 that engages with the first recess 73. The front unit 60 is equipped with a front frame 74 that secures the functional unit. The front frame 74 is equipped with a front locking protrusion 75 that engages with the second recess 76. By connecting the front unit 60, the circulating transport unit 61, and the rear unit 62, gears (not shown) are connected, and driving force can be transmitted to each unit, and they can be driven in conjunction with each other.

[0079] The front unit 60 and the circulating transport unit 61 are brought into contact with each other, and the circulating transport unit 61 and the rear unit 62 are brought into contact with each other, and the fixing lever 70 is then rotated to engage the first recess 73 with the middle locking protrusion 72, and the second recess 76 with the front locking protrusion 75. The front unit 60, the circulating transport unit 61, and the rear unit 62 are fixed in a connected state.

[0080] The front unit 60 is provided with a first maintenance door 65 that can be opened and closed on the front frame 74. The rear unit 62 is provided with a second maintenance door 66 and a third maintenance door 67 that can be opened and closed on the rear frame 68. Each door can be opened and closed. Opening the door allows access to each functional unit stored inside, allowing maintenance of the device.

[0081] An engagement portion (not shown) of the base frame 64 is slidably attached to the first rail 63, and the base frame 64 can be moved along the first rail 63. The first rail 63 is a linear rail arranged in the depth direction of the banknote processing device 1. By moving the base frame 64, the front unit 60, the circulating transport unit 61, and the rear unit 62 can be moved out of the rear case 4. In this state, the first maintenance door 65, the second maintenance door 66, and the third maintenance door 67 can be opened and closed, and the fixed lever 70 can be rotated.

[0082] Fig. 6 is a second diagram illustrating an overview of the functional units of the banknote processing device. Fig. 6 is a side view of the banknote processing device 1. The front unit 60 and the front case 5 are fixed to a slide frame 78 that is slidably engaged with a second rail 77. The second rail 77 is arranged parallel to the first rail 63. By releasing the fixing lever 70, the front unit 60 can be moved so as to be separated from the circulating transport unit 61. [Explanation of symbols]

[0083] 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 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 First storage unit drive roller 46 1st storage unit pinch 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 drive roller 53 Second storage unit pinch roller 54 Second storage unit tray 55 Second storage unit lifting mechanism 56 Third storage unit drive roller 57 Third storage unit pinch roller 58 Third Storage Unit Tray 59 Third storage unit lifting mechanism 60 Front unit 61 Circulating Transport Unit 62 rear unit 63 First Rail 64 base frame 65 No. 1 Maintenance Door 66 Second Maintenance Door 67 Third Maintenance Door 68 Rear Frame 69 axes 70 Fixed lever 71 Central Frame 72 Middle locking protrusion 73 First recess 74 Front Frame 75 Front locking protrusion 76 Second recess 77 Second Rail 78 Slide Frame 79 Central unit support 80 Rear unit support 81 Rotation axis 82 Second Storage Unit 83 Third Storage Unit 84 Deposit Identification Unit 85 Withdrawal Units 86 First Storage Unit 87 Reject Unit 88 Upright position 89 First conveying surface 90 Second conveying surface 91 Third conveying surface 92 Fourth conveying surface

Claims

1. A banknote processing device that stores banknotes received from a deposit port in storage units corresponding to each denomination, and feeds the banknotes from the storage units and discharges them from a withdrawal port, a base stored in the housing; a rear unit fixed to the base; a circulating conveying unit disposed so as to be swingable relative to the base, with one end in the longitudinal direction thereof being a free end; a front unit slidably disposed relative to the base; The front unit and the circulating transport unit can be separated and connected by sliding the front unit, and a first transport path is exposed by separating the front unit and the circulating transport unit, and a linear first transport path along which the banknotes can be transported is formed by connecting the front unit and the circulating transport unit; The circulating transport unit and the rear unit can be separated and connected by swinging the circulating transport unit, and by separating them, a second transport path is exposed, and by connecting them, a linear second transport path along which the banknotes can be transported is formed; the first transport path and the second transport path are arranged in parallel, The banknote processing device is characterized in that the circular transport unit has a curved transport path connecting the respective ends of the first transport path and the second transport path, and the banknotes can be transported when the front unit, the circular transport unit, and the rear unit are connected.

2. The banknote processing device according to claim 1, wherein the first transport path and the second transport path have the same size.

3. The front unit has at least the deposit port and the withdrawal port arranged therein, The banknote processing device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the storage units is arranged in the rear unit.

4. the circulating transport unit has a first rotating body arranged on a side facing the front unit and a second rotating body arranged on a side facing the rear unit, the front unit has a third rotating body facing the first rotating body, the rear unit has a fourth rotating body facing the second rotating body, When the circulating transport unit and the front unit are connected, the banknotes are sandwiched and transported by the first rotating body and the third rotating body, 4. The banknote processing device according to claim 1, wherein when the circulating transport unit and the rear unit are connected, the banknote is sandwiched and transported between the second rotating body and the fourth rotating body.

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