Vending machine and vending machine system

Abstract

To provide an automatic vending machine and an automatic vending machine system for easily acquiring the information of a paper money processing part, and for visually displaying it from the outside.SOLUTION: In the vending machine 10, the control unit is configured to acquire, based on the read information read by the sheet reading unit 1a, display information including at least one of content relating to banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit 1 and content relating to the state of the banknote processing unit 1, and to perform control for displaying the display information on the display unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a vending machine and a vending machine system, and more particularly to a vending machine and a vending machine system including a banknote processing unit. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, vending machines including a banknote processing unit are known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] The above-mentioned Patent Document 1 discloses a vending machine equipped with a bill validator (banknote processing unit) that identifies the authenticity and type of banknotes inserted into the vending machine. In Patent Document 1, the bill validator stores information regarding operating hours, information regarding the total number of inserted banknotes, information regarding the number of accepted banknotes by denomination, and information regarding errors. In addition, in Patent Document 1, a computer and the bill validator are connected via a connection cable, and information is obtained from the bill validator, and the obtained information is displayed on the computer. Furthermore, an operator performs maintenance based on the information displayed on the computer. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-149472 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In the vending machine disclosed in Patent Document 1, an operator needs to connect a computer to the banknote processing unit to obtain information about the banknote processing unit. However, because the banknote processing unit is located inside the vending machine, connecting the banknote processing unit to the computer with a connection cable requires opening an outer door of the vending machine and removing the banknote processing unit from inside the vending machine, which is time-consuming. Therefore, there is a demand for a vending machine and a vending machine system that can easily obtain and display information about the banknote processing unit.

[0006] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and one object of the present invention is to provide a vending machine and vending machine system that can easily obtain information from a banknote processing unit and display it in a manner that is visible from the outside. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, a vending machine according to a first aspect of the present invention comprises a banknote processing unit that performs processing to determine whether banknotes are valid, a display unit that is arranged on the outer surface of the vending machine main body, and a control unit, wherein the banknote processing unit includes a sheet reading unit that reads reading information attached to a first reading sheet inserted through the banknote insertion slot, and the control unit is configured to obtain display information including at least one of content related to banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit and content related to the state of the banknote processing unit based on the reading information read by the sheet reading unit, and to perform control to display the display information on the display unit.

[0008] In the vending machine according to the first aspect of the present invention, as described above, the control unit is configured to control the display unit to display display information including at least one of details about banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit and details about the status of the banknote processing unit, and the display unit is arranged on the outer surface of the vending machine main body. As a result, an operator can simply insert the first reading sheet into the vending machine, and the display information is displayed on the display unit arranged on the outer surface of the vending machine, allowing the operator to visually confirm the display information including at least one of details about banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit and details about the status of the banknote processing unit from outside the vending machine. As a result, there is no need to open the outer door of the vending machine and remove the banknote processing unit to obtain information from the banknote processing unit, and the information about the banknote processing unit can be easily obtained and displayed so that it can be viewed from outside.

[0009] In the vending machine according to the first aspect, preferably, the first reading sheet has substantially the same size as a banknote to be inserted into the banknote processing unit. With this configuration, by making the first reading sheet substantially the same size as a banknote that can be inserted into the banknote processing unit, the first reading sheet can be formed to a size that can be inserted into the banknote processing unit. Furthermore, by making the first reading sheet substantially the same size as a banknote, when the sheet reading unit is placed in a position where it can read banknotes, the position of the sheet reading unit and the position of the first reading sheet can be easily aligned, unlike when the first reading sheet is excessively small, and therefore the sheet reading unit can accurately read information on the first reading sheet.

[0010] In the vending machine according to the first aspect, preferably, the banknote reading unit that reads information about the state of banknotes used to determine whether the banknotes are valid is configured to also serve as the sheet reading unit. This configuration, unlike when the banknote reading unit and the sheet reading unit are provided separately, makes it possible to prevent an increase in the number of parts and to prevent the configuration of the banknote processing unit from becoming complicated.

[0011] In the vending machine according to the first aspect, the first reading sheet preferably has a pattern corresponding to the read information. With this configuration, the desired display information can be displayed by inserting a first reading sheet having a pattern corresponding to the desired display information. Furthermore, various display information can be displayed on the display unit by inserting first reading sheets having different patterns.

[0012] In the vending machine of the first aspect, preferably, the banknote processing unit has a plurality of sheet reading units, and the first reading sheet has reading information attached to a plurality of positions corresponding to the positions of the plurality of sheet reading units. With this configuration, by inserting one first reading sheet into the banknote processing unit, a plurality of pieces of display information can be displayed on the display unit, thereby simplifying the work of an operator to obtain information from the plurality of banknote processing units.

[0013] In the vending machine according to the first aspect, the control unit is preferably configured to control the display unit to display, as content related to banknotes, display information including at least one of the total number of inserted banknotes and the ratio of banknotes determined to be appropriate to the total number of inserted banknotes. With this configuration, the total number of inserted banknotes is displayed, allowing an operator to grasp the number of times the banknote processing unit has processed and to grasp the timing for maintenance. Furthermore, since the configuration is such that the ratio of banknotes determined to be appropriate to the total number of inserted banknotes is displayed, if the ratio of banknotes determined to be appropriate to the total number of inserted banknotes becomes small, it can be determined that the accuracy of the banknote processing unit has decreased due to dirt or the like, allowing an operator to grasp the timing for maintenance of the banknote processing unit.

[0014] In the vending machine according to the first aspect, the control unit is preferably configured to control the display unit to display information including the operating time of the banknote processing unit as information related to the state of the banknote processing unit. Here, as the operating time of the banknote processing unit increases, parts wear out, making it necessary to perform maintenance to replace the parts. Therefore, by configuring the display unit to display information including the operating time of the banknote processing unit, an operator can easily determine whether or not maintenance is necessary by visually checking the displayed operating time of the banknote processing unit.

[0015] In a configuration in which different read information is attached to each of a plurality of positions corresponding to the positions of a plurality of sheet reading units, the different read information is preferably configured to correspond to display information including at least one of the total number of inserted banknotes, the ratio of banknotes determined to be appropriate to the total number of inserted banknotes, and the operating time of the banknote processing unit. With this configuration, the total number of inserted banknotes, the ratio of banknotes determined to be appropriate, and the operating time of the banknote processing unit can all be displayed, allowing an operator to determine both the timing of maintenance of the banknote processing unit and the timing of changing its settings.

[0016] In the vending machine according to the first aspect, the control unit preferably includes a first control unit provided in the banknote processing unit and performing a process for determining whether a banknote is legitimate, and a second control unit provided separately from the banknote processing unit and performing control for displaying display information on the display unit, wherein the first control unit is configured to perform control for identifying the type of content of information to be displayed as display information based on read information read by the sheet reading unit, control for extracting content of the identified type, and control for outputting information including the extracted content to the second control unit as display information. With this configuration, the first control unit provided in the banknote processing unit can determine whether a banknote is legitimate and extract display information based on the first reading sheet and output it to the second control unit. Furthermore, when the second control unit controls display of display information on the display unit, it only needs to display the display information output from the first control unit on the display unit, thereby suppressing an increase in the processing load on the second control unit.

[0017] In the vending machine according to the first aspect, the banknote processing unit is preferably configured to, when a second reading sheet bearing reading information relating to the criteria for determining whether a banknote is appropriate is inserted, either change the criteria for determining whether a banknote is appropriate or stop accepting banknotes based on the read information. Conventionally, changing the criteria for determining whether a banknote is appropriate or stopping accepting banknotes required operating a switch provided inside the vending machine. Therefore, with the above configuration, by inserting the second reading sheet, either change the criteria for determining whether a banknote is appropriate or stop accepting banknotes can be performed without opening the outer door of the vending machine, thereby reducing the workload of workers.

[0018] In the vending machine according to the first aspect, the display unit is preferably an amount display unit that displays at least the amount of money inserted. With this configuration, the amount display unit can display information related to the banknote processing unit, eliminating the need for a separate display unit. This reduces the number of components and the complexity of the vending machine configuration.

[0019] In this case, the control unit is preferably configured to cause the amount display unit to display a combination of a number indicating the type of display information and a numerical value indicating the content of the display information. With this configuration, even if the amount display unit can only display numbers, information related to the banknote processing unit can be displayed.

[0020] A vending machine system according to a second aspect of the present invention comprises a vending machine including a banknote processing unit that performs processing to determine whether banknotes are valid, a control unit, and a display unit that is arranged on the outer surface of the vending machine main body or outside the vending machine, wherein the banknote processing unit includes a sheet reading unit that reads reading information attached to a reading sheet inserted through the banknote insertion slot, and the control unit is configured to obtain display information including at least one of content related to banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit and content related to the state of the banknote processing unit based on the reading information read by the sheet reading unit, and to perform control to display the display information on the display unit.

[0021] In the vending machine system according to the second aspect of the present invention, as described above, the control unit is configured to control the display unit to display information including at least one of details about banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit and details about the state of the banknote processing unit, and the display unit is located on the outer surface of the vending machine main body or outside the vending machine. As a result, an operator can simply insert a reading sheet into the vending machine, and the display information is displayed on the display unit located on the outer surface of the vending machine or on a display unit located outside the vending machine, allowing the operator to view the display information including at least one of details about banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit and details about the state of the banknote processing unit from outside the vending machine. As a result, there is no need to open the outer door of the vending machine and remove the banknote processing unit to obtain information from the banknote processing unit, and the information about the banknote processing unit can be easily obtained and displayed so that it can be viewed from outside.

[0022] In the second aspect, the display unit is preferably a display unit of a terminal capable of communicating with the vending machine, and the control unit is configured to receive an operation from the terminal and perform control to transmit display information output from the banknote processing unit to the terminal for display on the terminal. With this configuration, when an operator operates the terminal, information about the banknote processing unit is displayed on the display unit of the terminal, allowing the operator to obtain information about the banknote processing unit more easily. [Effects of the Invention]

[0023] According to the present invention, as described above, it is possible to provide a vending machine and a vending machine system that can easily obtain information about the banknote processing unit and display it so that it can be seen from the outside. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a vending machine system in a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a vending machine. [Figure 3]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a first reading sheet. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing display information to be displayed on a display unit. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a second reading sheet. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing a control flow for displaying display information based on the first reading sheet. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing a control flow for changing settings based on a second reading sheet. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a vending machine system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing a control flow for displaying display information based on an operation of a terminal. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a vending machine system according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0026] [First embodiment] The configuration of a vending machine system 100 according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0027] As shown in Fig. 1, the vending machine system 100 includes a vending machine 10 and an amount display unit 3. The amount display unit 3 is an example of the "display unit" set forth in the claims.

[0028] As shown in Figure 2, the vending machine 10 includes a vending machine main body 10a and an outer door 10b. The vending machine main body 10a has a rectangular parallelepiped shape with an opening on the front side. The outer door 10b is attached to the opening of the vending machine main body 10a in an openable and closable manner.

[0029] 1 and 2, the vending machine 10 includes a banknote processing unit 1, a second control unit 2, an amount display unit 3, a coin processing unit 4, a banknote insertion slot 5, a coin insertion slot 6, a product removal slot 7, and a coin return slot 8. The banknote processing unit 1, the second control unit 2, and the coin processing unit 4 are provided inside the vending machine main body unit 10a. The amount display unit 3, the banknote insertion slot 5, the coin insertion slot 6, the product removal slot 7, and the coin return slot 8 are provided in the outer door 10b.

[0030] The banknote processing unit 1 performs a process to determine whether a banknote is legitimate. The banknote processing unit 1 includes a sheet reading unit 1a and a first control unit 1b. In the first embodiment, the banknote reading unit, which reads information about the state of the banknote used to determine whether the banknote is legitimate, is configured to also serve as the sheet reading unit 1a, which reads the first reading sheet 20 (see FIG. 3). The first reading sheet 20 is an example of the "reading sheet" set forth in the claims.

[0031] The sheet reading unit 1a has an irradiation unit and a light receiving unit (not shown). The sheet reading unit 1a is configured to irradiate light from the irradiation unit onto an inserted piece of paper, and receive the light that has passed through or reflected from the piece of paper with the light receiving unit.

[0032] As shown in Fig. 3, a plurality of sheet reading units 1a are provided. The plurality of sheet reading units 1a are arranged side by side and are configured to divide the banknote into a plurality of areas according to the number of reading units, and to read information relating to the state of the banknote for each area. Furthermore, the sheet reading units 1a are configured to read information relating to the state of the banknote at predetermined intervals while the banknote is being fed in the reading direction.

[0033] The first control unit 1b shown in FIG. 1 includes a processing unit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a memory such as RAM. The first control unit 1b determines whether an inserted piece of paper is a banknote based on the amount of light received by the light receiving unit, and also determines whether the banknote is legitimate. To determine whether a banknote is legitimate, the first control unit 1b divides the banknote into multiple regions and makes the determination based on the range of acceptable light received, which is preset for each region, and the amount of light received by the light receiving unit. The first control unit 1b determines a banknote as acceptable if there are a predetermined number or more regions where the amount of received light is within the acceptable range. If there are fewer than the predetermined number, the first control unit 1b determines the banknote as unacceptable. The first control unit 1b also performs a process to determine the type of banknote based on the amount of received light. Because the patterns and characters printed on different types of banknotes are different, the first control unit 1b sets different ranges of received light depending on the type of banknote. Therefore, the first control unit 1b can determine the type of banknote based on the amount of received light for each region. Furthermore, the first control unit 1b obtains the amount of money inserted based on the result of the sheet reading unit 1a.

[0034] The first control unit 1b is configured to acquire the total number of inserted banknotes and the ratio of the number of accepted banknotes (the number determined to be appropriate) to the total number of inserted banknotes. The memory of the first control unit 1b stores the total number of banknotes inserted by the banknote processing unit 1 from a certain point in time to the present. The memory also stores the number of banknotes determined to be appropriate from a certain point in time to the present. The certain point in time includes when the banknote processing unit 1 is first operated, when the settings are reset, or a date that is the start of a predetermined period pre-stored in the memory. The first control unit 1b acquires the total number of inserted banknotes and the ratio of the number of accepted banknotes (the number determined to be appropriate) to the total number of inserted banknotes based on this information stored in the memory. The first control unit 1b may also be configured to acquire the ratio of old banknotes to the sum of currently issued banknotes and banknotes before the switch to currently issued banknotes (old banknotes). The banknote processing unit 1 is configured to be able to output information relating to banknotes and information relating to the state of the banknote processing unit 1 to the second control unit 2.

[0035] The second control unit 2 is provided separately from the banknote processing unit 1, and is configured to control the display of display information on the amount display unit 3. Specifically, the second control unit 2 is configured to control the display of the amount inserted on the amount display unit 3. The second control unit 2 is also configured to control the operation of the vending machine 10. Specifically, the second control unit 2 is configured to accept the selection of a product and, in response, control the transport of the product from a storage unit (not shown) to the product removal opening 7. The second control unit 2 controls the banknote processing unit 1 to store banknotes that are determined to be appropriate in a cash storage vault, and to return banknotes that are determined to be inappropriate.

[0036] The amount display unit 3 displays the amount of money inserted under the control of the second control unit 2. Specifically, the amount of money inserted acquired by the banknote processing unit 1 and the coin processing unit 4 is output to the second control unit 2 and displayed on the amount display unit 3.

[0037] The coin processing unit 4 is configured to determine whether an inserted coin is valid or not. The coin processing unit 4 is equipped with a magnetic sensor. If the detection result of the magnetic sensor is within a preset range, the coin processing unit 4 determines that the coin is acceptable, and if it is not within the range, it determines that the coin is not acceptable.

[0038] The banknote insertion slot 5 is used when inserting banknotes into the vending machine main body 10a and when returning banknotes. The banknote insertion slot 5 has a slit set to match the maximum width of the banknotes to be inserted. Banknotes inserted into the banknote insertion slot 5 are transported to the banknote processing unit 1 and processed.

[0039] The coin slot 6 is used when inserting coins into the vending machine main body 10a. The coin slot 6 has a slit that is set to fit the maximum width of the coin to be inserted.

[0040] The product take-out opening 7 is provided for taking out products. The product take-out opening 7 is provided below the outer door 10b, and may be equipped with a flapper.

[0041] The coin return slot 8 is provided below the outer door 10b. The coin return slot 8 is provided to return coins that are determined to be unacceptable by the coin processing unit 4, change, and coins that have been returned.

[0042] (Display of display information using the first reading sheet) In the first embodiment, display information is displayed on the first reading sheet 20 shown in FIG. 3. The first reading sheet 20 has approximately the same size as the banknotes inserted into the banknote processing unit 1. The size of the banknote includes the length of the long side, the length (width) of the short side, and the thickness. The first reading sheet 20 is configured to be approximately the same size as, for example, a 1000 yen bill. The first reading sheet 20 is made of paper as one example, and is made of plastic as another example.

[0043] The first reading sheet 20 is provided with a pattern 20a corresponding to the read information. A plurality of patterns 20a are provided depending on the type of information content to be displayed as display information. The pattern 20a includes figures, designs, letters, numbers, etc. In the first embodiment, it is configured as a combination of figures of the same size. In the first embodiment, the pattern 20a includes a rectangle. The portion with the rectangle is configured to receive less light than the portion without the rectangle. The pattern 20a is arranged in the reading direction at an interval for reading information related to the state of the banknote by the sheet reading unit 1a. The read information is configured to correspond to display information including at least one of content related to the banknote processed in the banknote processing unit 1 and content related to the state of the banknote processing unit 1.

[0044] The first reading sheet 20 includes reading information at positions corresponding to the positions of the sheet reading units 1a. Fig. 3 illustrates an example in which there are three sheet reading units 1a. The first reading sheet 20 has three pieces of reading information arranged thereon. The reading information is configured to correspond to display information including at least one of the total number of inserted banknotes, the ratio of banknotes determined to be appropriate to the total number of inserted banknotes, and the operating time of the banknote processing unit 1.

[0045] The first control unit 1b is configured to perform control to identify the type of content of information to be displayed as display information based on the read information read by the sheet reading unit 1a, control to extract the identified type of content, and control to output information including the extracted content to the second control unit 2 as display information.

[0046] Specifically, the control to identify the type of content of information to be displayed as display information based on the read information read by the sheet reading unit 1a involves reading the portions marked with rectangles and the portions not marked with rectangles based on the difference in the amount of received light, and identifying the type of content of information to be displayed as display information corresponding to the pattern 20a based on the arrangement of the rectangles. In the case of Figure 3, the type of content of information to be displayed as one piece of display information is identified by the patterns 20a read in order in the reading direction.

[0047] The control to extract the content of the specified type is specifically the control to extract information of the type of content of the information to be displayed as the specified display information from the memory. Also, the control to output information including the extracted content as display information to the second control unit 2 is the control to output the information to the second control unit 2 so as to display it on the amount display unit 3. After the read information has been read, the first reading sheet 20 is returned from the banknote insertion slot 5.

[0048] The second control unit 2 is configured to obtain display information including at least one of details about banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit 1 and details about the state of the banknote processing unit 1, based on the read information read by the sheet reading unit 1a, and to perform control to display the display information on the amount display unit 3. Specifically, the second control unit 2 obtains the display information by having it output from the banknote processing unit 1.

[0049] The second control unit 2 is configured to control the amount display unit 3 to display display information including at least one of the total number of inserted banknotes and the ratio of banknotes determined to be appropriate to the total number of inserted banknotes, as content related to the banknotes. The second control unit 2 is configured to control the amount display unit 3 to display display information including the operating time of the banknote processing unit 1, as content related to the state of the banknote processing unit 1.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 4, the second control unit 2 is configured to display a combination of a number indicating the type of display information and a numerical value indicating the content of the display information on the amount display unit 3. Furthermore, if there is a plurality of pieces of display information, the second control unit 2 is configured to control the display of the display information on the amount display unit 3 in order for a predetermined time each. The predetermined time is, for example, between 2 and 10 seconds. Furthermore, the display information may be repeatedly displayed multiple times. If the display information is long, it is displayed in segments. The amount display unit 3 is capable of displaying five-digit numbers. When the display content is not segmented, a maximum of three digits can be displayed, and when segmented, a minimum of eight digits can be displayed.

[0051] In Figure 4, (A) and (B) show "1-00102325", indicating that the operating time of the banknote processing unit 1 is 102,325 hours. Also, (C) and (D) show "2-00135687", indicating that the total number of banknotes inserted is 135,687. Furthermore, (E) shows "3-089", indicating that the acceptance rate is 89%.

[0052] As shown in Figure 4, the number indicating the type of displayed information is represented by the number before the hyphen (on the left), and the number indicating the display content is represented by the number after the hyphen (on the right). The operating time and the total number of inserted banknotes are represented by eight digits. In the case of Figure 4, 1- indicates that the type of displayed information is the operating time of the banknote processing unit 1. By displaying 001 after 1-, it is indicated that the first three digits of the eight digits are 001, indicating that the operating time is 100,000 hours. Next, by displaying 02325, it is indicated that the last five digits of the operating time are 02325, indicating that the operating time is 2325 hours. By combining this information, the operator determines that the operating time is 102325 hours.

[0053] Following the operating time, the total number of bills inserted is displayed. The 2- indicates that the type of information displayed is the total number of bills inserted. Then, by displaying 001, the first three digits of the eight digits are displayed, indicating that the total number of bills is 100,000. Next, by displaying 35687, the last five digits of the total number of bills are 35687, indicating that the total number of bills is 35,687. By combining this information, the worker can determine that the total number of bills is 135,687.

[0054] The acceptance rate is displayed following the total number of inserted banknotes. The 3- indicates that the type of information displayed is acceptance rate. The acceptance rate can be displayed in three digits, so it is not displayed in parts. The number 089 after the 3- indicates that it is 89%, so the operator understands that the acceptance rate is 89%. The display then returns to the operating time of the banknote processing unit 1, and the following are repeatedly displayed in this order on the amount display unit 3 a predetermined number of times or for a predetermined period of time: the operating time of the banknote processing unit 1 is 102,325 hours, the total number of inserted banknotes is 135,687, and the acceptance rate is 89%.

[0055] (Second reading sheet) In the first embodiment, the second reading sheet 21 shown in Fig. 5 is used to either change the criteria for determining whether a banknote is valid or to stop the acceptance of banknotes. The second reading sheet 21, like the first reading sheet 20, has approximately the same size as the banknotes inserted into the banknote processing unit 1. As one example, the second reading sheet 21 is made of paper, and as another example, it is made of plastic.

[0056] The second reading sheet 21 is provided with a pattern 21a indicating the reading information, similar to the first reading sheet 20. The pattern 21a changes depending on whether the criteria for determining whether a banknote is legitimate or not are changed, or whether the acceptance of banknotes is stopped. The pattern 21a includes figures, designs, letters, numbers, etc. In the first embodiment, it is made up of a combination of figures of the same size. In the first embodiment, the pattern 21a includes rectangles. The portion with the rectangles is configured to receive less light than the portion without the rectangles. In the pattern 21a, the rectangles are arranged to match the intervals at which the sheet reading unit 1a reads information about the state of the banknotes.

[0057] The banknote processing unit 1 is configured to, when a second reading sheet 21 bearing reading information relating to the criteria for determining whether a banknote is appropriate is inserted, either change the criteria for determining whether a banknote is appropriate or stop accepting banknotes based on the read information. Changing the criteria for determining whether a banknote is appropriate can mean narrowing the range of the amount of received light that is determined to be acceptable, or shifting the range of the amount of received light. Stopping the acceptance of banknotes can include, for example, not accepting banknotes that have not yet been replaced by currently issued banknotes when new banknotes are issued, or limiting the types of banknotes that are accepted.

[0058] For example, after the acceptance rate is displayed by the first reading sheet 20, the second reading sheet 21 is used so that the worker can change the acceptance rate for newly issued banknotes to a higher rate. Also, after the acceptance rate is displayed by the first reading sheet 20, if the worker determines that the circulation volume of newly issued banknotes has increased and that the circulation volume of older banknotes is low, the second reading sheet 21 is used to narrow the range of light reception levels for accepting older banknotes or to stop accepting older banknotes. This makes it possible to reduce or eliminate the probability that older banknotes, which have weaker counterfeit prevention measures than newly issued banknotes, will be accepted, thereby improving security. Also, the second reading sheet 21 is returned from the banknote insertion slot 5 after the reading information has been read.

[0059] (Control when the first reading sheet is inserted) The control flow when the first reading sheet 20 is inserted will be described with reference to Fig. 6. In step S1, when the first reading sheet 20 is inserted, the sheet reading unit 1a of the banknote processing unit 1 reads the first reading sheet 20. In step S2, the first control unit 1b identifies the type of content of the display information based on the read information read in step S1.

[0060] In step S3, the first control unit 1b extracts the content based on the identified type of content, specifically, extracts display information based on information stored in the memory.

[0061] In step S4, the first control unit 1b performs control to output the extracted display information to the second control unit 2. In step S5, the second control unit 2 performs control to cause the amount display unit 3 to display the output display information.

[0062] (Control when a second scanning sheet is inserted) The control flow when the second reading sheet 21 is inserted will be described with reference to Fig. 7. In step S11, when the second reading sheet 21 is inserted, the sheet reading unit 1a of the banknote processing unit 1 reads the second reading sheet 21. In step S12, the first control unit 1b identifies the type of content of the display information based on the read information read in step S11.

[0063] In step S13, the first control unit 1b changes the criteria for determining whether a banknote is appropriate based on the type of content identified. As a result, the banknote processing unit 1 determines whether a banknote is appropriate based on the changed criteria. If the type of content identified in step S12 is to stop accepting banknotes, acceptance is stopped in step S13.

[0064] (Effects of the first embodiment) In the first embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0065] As described above, in the vending machine 10 of the first embodiment, the second control unit 2 is configured to perform control to cause the amount display unit 3 to display display information including at least one of details about banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit 1 and details about the status of the banknote processing unit 1, and the amount display unit 3 is arranged on the outer surface of the vending machine main body 10a. As a result, an operator can simply insert the first reading sheet 20 into the vending machine 10, and the display information including at least one of details about banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit 1 and details about the status of the banknote processing unit 1 can be viewed from outside the vending machine 10. As a result, there is no need to open the outer door 10b of the vending machine 10 and remove the banknote processing unit 1 in order to obtain information from the banknote processing unit 1, and information about the banknote processing unit 1 can be easily obtained and displayed so that it can be viewed from outside.

[0066] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the first reading sheet 20 has approximately the same size as the banknotes that are inserted into the banknote processing unit 1. As a result, by making the first reading sheet 20 the same size as the banknotes that can be inserted into the banknote processing unit 1, the first reading sheet 20 can be formed to a size that can be inserted into the banknote processing unit 1. Furthermore, by making the first reading sheet 20 approximately the same size as the banknotes, when the sheet reading unit 1a is placed in a position where it can read banknotes, the position of the sheet reading unit 1a and the position of the first reading sheet 20 can be easily aligned, unlike when the first reading sheet 20 is excessively small, and therefore the sheet reading unit 1a can accurately read the information on the first reading sheet 20.

[0067] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the banknote reading unit that reads information about the state of banknotes used to determine whether the banknotes are legitimate is configured to also serve as the sheet reading unit 1a. This prevents an increase in the number of parts and an increase in the complexity of the configuration of the banknote processing unit 1, unlike when the banknote reading unit and the sheet reading unit 1a are provided separately.

[0068] In the first embodiment, the first reading sheet 20 has a pattern 20a corresponding to the reading information. As a result, by inserting the first reading sheet 20 having the pattern 20a corresponding to the desired display information, the desired display information can be displayed. Furthermore, by inserting the first reading sheet 20 having a different pattern 20a, various display information can be displayed on the amount display unit 3.

[0069] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the banknote processing unit 1 has a plurality of sheet reading units 1a, and the first reading sheet 20 has reading information attached to a plurality of positions corresponding to the positions of the plurality of sheet reading units 1a. As a result, by inserting one first reading sheet 20 into the banknote processing unit 1, a plurality of pieces of display information can be displayed on the amount display unit 3, thereby simplifying the work of an operator to obtain information from a plurality of banknote processing units 1.

[0070] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the second control unit 2 is configured to control the amount display unit 3 to display, as content related to banknotes, display information including at least one of the total number of inserted banknotes and the ratio of banknotes judged to be appropriate to the total number of inserted banknotes. As a result, the total number of inserted banknotes is displayed, allowing an operator to grasp the number of times the banknote processing unit 1 has processed, and thus grasp the timing for maintenance. Furthermore, since the configuration is such that the ratio of banknotes judged to be appropriate to the total number of inserted banknotes is displayed, if the ratio of banknotes judged to be appropriate to the total number of inserted banknotes becomes small, it can be determined that the accuracy of the banknote processing unit 1 has decreased due to dirt or the like, and therefore the operator can grasp the timing for maintenance of the banknote processing unit 1.

[0071] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the second control unit 2 is configured to perform control so that the amount display unit 3 displays display information including the operating time of the banknote processing unit 1 as content relating to the state of the banknote processing unit 1. Here, as the operating time of the banknote processing unit 1 increases, parts wear out and maintenance to replace parts becomes necessary. Therefore, by configuring the amount display unit 3 to display display information including the operating time of the banknote processing unit 1, an operator can easily determine whether or not maintenance is required by visually checking the displayed operating time of the banknote processing unit 1.

[0072] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the different read information is configured to correspond to display information including at least one of the total number of inserted banknotes, the ratio of banknotes judged to be appropriate to the total number of inserted banknotes, and the operating time of the banknote processing unit 1. This allows the total number of inserted banknotes, the ratio of banknotes judged to be appropriate, and the operating time of the banknote processing unit 1 to be displayed, so that an operator can determine both the timing for maintenance of the banknote processing unit 1 and the timing for changing the settings.

[0073] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the control unit includes a first control unit 1b provided in the banknote processing unit 1 and performing a process for determining whether a banknote is legitimate, and a second control unit 2 provided separately from the banknote processing unit 1 and performing control for displaying display information on the amount display unit 3. The first control unit 1b is configured to perform control for identifying the type of content of information to be displayed as display information based on read information read by the sheet reading unit 1a, control for extracting content of the identified type, and control for outputting information including the extracted content as display information to the second control unit 2. This allows the first control unit 1b provided in the banknote processing unit 1 to determine whether a banknote is legitimate, and to extract display information based on the first reading sheet 20 and output it to the second control unit 2. Furthermore, when performing control for displaying display information on the amount display unit 3, the second control unit 2 can simply cause the display information output from the first control unit 1b to be displayed on the amount display unit 3, thereby suppressing an increase in the processing load on the second control unit 2.

[0074] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, when the second reading sheet 21 bearing reading information relating to the criteria for determining whether a banknote is appropriate is inserted, the banknote processing unit 1 is configured to either change the criteria for determining whether a banknote is appropriate or stop accepting banknotes based on the read information. Conventionally, in order to either change the criteria for determining whether a banknote is appropriate or stop accepting banknotes, it was necessary to operate a switch provided inside the vending machine 10. Therefore, by inserting the second reading sheet 21, it is possible to either change the criteria for determining whether a banknote is appropriate or stop accepting banknotes without opening the outer door 10b of the vending machine 10, thereby reducing the workload of workers.

[0075] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the display unit is the amount display unit 3 that displays at least the amount of money inserted. This makes it possible to display information related to the banknote processing unit 1 on the amount display unit 3, eliminating the need to provide a separate display unit. As a result, it is possible to prevent an increase in the number of parts and to prevent the device configuration of the vending machine 10 from becoming complicated.

[0076] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the second control unit 2 is configured to display a combination of a number indicating the type of display information and a numerical value indicating the content of the display information on the amount display unit 3. This makes it possible to display information related to the banknote processing unit 1 even on an amount display unit 3 that can only display numbers.

[0077] Furthermore, in the vending machine system 100 of the first embodiment, the second control unit 2 is configured to perform control to cause the amount display unit 3 to display display information including at least one of details about banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit 1 and details about the status of the banknote processing unit 1, and the amount display unit 3 is disposed on the outer surface of the vending machine main body 10a or on the outside of the vending machine 10. As a result, an operator can simply insert the first reading sheet 20 into the vending machine 10, and the display information is displayed on the amount display unit 3 disposed on the outer surface of the vending machine 10 or on a display unit disposed on the outside of the vending machine 10, allowing the operator to view the display information including at least one of details about banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit 1 and details about the status of the banknote processing unit 1 from outside the vending machine 10. As a result, there is no need to open the outer door 10b of the vending machine 10 and remove the banknote processing unit 1 to obtain information from the banknote processing unit 1, and therefore the information from the banknote processing unit 1 can be easily obtained and displayed so that it can be viewed from outside.

[0078] [Second embodiment] Next, the configuration of a vending machine system 200 according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 2 to 9. The second embodiment further includes a handy terminal 30. The handy terminal 30 is an example of the "terminal" defined in the claims. Components that are the same as those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0079] 8, the handheld terminal 30 includes a display unit 30a, a communication unit 30b, a third control unit 30c, and an operation unit 30d. The handheld terminal 30 is an operation device carried by a worker.

[0080] The display unit 30a displays an operation screen and display information. The communication unit 30b is configured to be able to communicate with the vending machine 10 from outside. The third control unit 30c is configured to control the operation of the handy terminal 30. The operation unit 30d includes, for example, operation buttons and is used by an operator to input operations. The display unit 30a is an example of a "display unit" as defined in the claims.

[0081] The amount display unit 3 includes a first communication unit 3a. The amount display unit 3 and the handy terminal 30 can communicate with each other via infrared communication.

[0082] By inserting the first reading sheet 20, display information including at least one of details about the banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit 1 and details about the status of the banknote processing unit 1 is displayed on the display unit 30a of the handy terminal 30. Specific examples of the display information are the same as those in the first embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0083] In addition, in the second embodiment, when the operation unit 30d of the handheld terminal 30 is operated, display information including at least one of content related to the banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit 1 and content related to the status of the banknote processing unit 1 is displayed on the display unit 30a of the handheld terminal 30.

[0084] The second control unit 2 is configured to receive operations from the handheld terminal 30 via the operation unit 30d, thereby controlling the transmission of display information output from the banknote processing unit 1 to the handheld terminal 30 for display on the handheld terminal 30. Specifically, when the second control unit 2 receives input from the handheld terminal 30, it is configured to obtain display information from the banknote processing unit 1 and transmit the display information to the handheld terminal 30. The third control unit 30c is configured to control the display of the received display information on the display unit 30a. The display unit 30a may display one or more pieces of display information.

[0085] In the second embodiment, in addition to when the second reading sheet 21 is inserted, it is also possible to change the criteria for determining whether a banknote is appropriate or to stop accepting banknotes via the handy terminal 30. Specifically, after a setting change is input via the operation unit 30d, it is transmitted to the vending machine 10 via the first communication unit 3a. Then, the setting change is transmitted from the second control unit 2 to the first control unit 1b, and the setting is changed by the first control unit 1b.

[0086] (Display information) The display of display information in the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 9. First, in step S21, input information entered into the handheld terminal 30 is transmitted to the first communication unit 3a of the amount display unit 3. Specifically, the worker operates the operation unit 30d of the handheld terminal 30 to input the type of information content to be displayed, and the input information is transmitted to the amount display unit 3. In step S22, the received input information is transmitted to the second control unit 2.

[0087] In step S23, input information is transmitted from the second control unit 2 to the first control unit 1b. In step S24, the first control unit 1b extracts the content of the information to be displayed as display information based on the received input information.

[0088] In step S25, the content of the extracted information is output as display information to the second control unit 2. In step S26, the second control unit 2 transmits the display information output via the amount display unit 3 to the handy terminal 30. Then, in step S27, the third control unit 30c of the handy terminal 30 displays the transmitted display information on the display unit 30a.

[0089] Control when the first reading sheet 20 is inserted will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Steps S1 to S4 are the same as those in the first embodiment. In step S4, after display information is output to the second control unit 2, the second control unit 2 transmits the display information from the amount display unit 3 to the communication unit 30b of the handy terminal 30 via the first communication unit 3a. Then, in step S5, the third control unit 30c displays the display information on the display unit 30a.

[0090] The other configurations of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0091] (Effects of the second embodiment) In the second embodiment, as described above, the second control unit 2 is configured to perform control to cause the amount display unit 3 to display display information including at least one of details about banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit 1 and details about the status of the banknote processing unit 1, and the amount display unit 3 is arranged on the outer surface of the vending machine main body 10a. As a result, an operator can simply insert the first reading sheet 20 into the vending machine 10, and the display information including at least one of details about banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit 1 and details about the status of the banknote processing unit 1 can be viewed from outside the vending machine 10. As a result, there is no need to open the outer door 10b of the vending machine 10 and remove the banknote processing unit 1 in order to obtain information from the banknote processing unit 1, and information about the banknote processing unit 1 can be easily obtained and displayed so as to be visible from outside.

[0092] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the second control unit 2 is configured to perform control to cause the amount display unit 3 to display display information including at least one of details about banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit 1 and details about the status of the banknote processing unit 1, and the amount display unit 3 is arranged on the outer surface of the vending machine main body 10a or outside the vending machine 10. As a result, an operator can simply insert the first reading sheet 20 into the vending machine 10, and the display information is displayed on the amount display unit 3 arranged on the outer surface of the vending machine 10 or on a display unit arranged outside the vending machine 10, allowing the operator to visually confirm the display information including at least one of details about banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit 1 and details about the status of the banknote processing unit 1 from outside the vending machine 10. As a result, there is no need to open the outer door 10b of the vending machine 10 and remove the banknote processing unit 1 in order to obtain information from the banknote processing unit 1, and therefore the information from the banknote processing unit 1 can be easily obtained and displayed so that it can be viewed from outside.

[0093] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the display unit is the display unit 30a of the handheld terminal 30 that can communicate with the vending machine 10, and the second control unit 2 is configured to accept operations from the handheld terminal 30 and perform control to transmit display information output from the banknote processing unit 1 to the handheld terminal 30 for display on the handheld terminal 30. As a result, when an operator operates the handheld terminal 30, information related to the banknote processing unit 1 is displayed on the display unit 30a of the handheld terminal 30, allowing the operator to obtain information about the banknote processing unit 1 more easily.

[0094] The other effects of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0095] [Third embodiment] Next, the configuration of a vending machine system 300 according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 2 to 7, 9, and 10. The third embodiment further includes a smartphone 40. The smartphone 40 is an example of a "terminal" as defined in the claims. Components that are the same as those in the second embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0096] 10, the smartphone 40 includes a display unit 40a, a communication unit 40b, a fourth control unit 40c, and an operation unit 40d. The smartphone 40 is a communication device carried by a worker.

[0097] The display unit 40a displays an operation screen and the like. The communication unit 40b is configured to be able to communicate with the vending machine 10 from outside. The fourth control unit 40c is configured to control the operation of the smartphone 40. The operation unit 40d includes, for example, a touch panel and is used by the worker to input operations. The display unit 40a is an example of a "display unit" as defined in the claims.

[0098] The amount display unit 3 includes a second communication unit 3b. The amount display unit 3 and the smartphone 40 can communicate with each other via Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0099] In the third embodiment, by inserting the first reading sheet 20, display information including at least one of details about the banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit 1 and details about the status of the banknote processing unit 1 is displayed on the display unit 40a of the smartphone 40. Specific examples of the display information are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. Also, in the second embodiment, by operating the operation unit 30d of the handheld terminal 30, display information including at least one of details about the banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit 1 and details about the status of the banknote processing unit 1 is displayed on the display unit 30a of the handheld terminal 30. Also, the display information is displayed on the display unit 40a of the smartphone 40. The displayed information may be one or more pieces of display information.

[0100] The second control unit 2 is configured to receive an operation from the smartphone 40, and thereby perform control to transmit display information output from the banknote processing unit 1 to the smartphone 40 so that the display information is displayed on the smartphone 40. Specifically, when the second control unit 2 receives an input from the smartphone 40, it is configured to obtain the display information from the banknote processing unit 1 and transmit the display information to the smartphone 40. The received display information is displayed on the display unit 40a of the smartphone 40.

[0101] In the third embodiment, in addition to when the second reading sheet 21 is inserted, it is also possible to change the criteria for determining whether a banknote is appropriate or to stop accepting banknotes via the smartphone 40. Specifically, after a setting change is input via the operation unit 40d, it is transmitted to the vending machine 10 via the second communication unit 3b. Then, the setting change is transmitted from the second control unit 2 to the first control unit 1b, and the setting is changed by the first control unit 1b.

[0102] (Display information) The display of display information in the third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 9. First, in step S21, input information entered into the smartphone 40 is transmitted to the second communication unit 3b of the amount display unit 3. Specifically, the worker operates the operation unit 40d of the smartphone 40 to input the type of information content to be displayed, and the input information is transmitted to the amount display unit 3. In step S22, the received input information is transmitted to the second control unit 2.

[0103] In step S23, input information is transmitted from the second control unit 2 to the first control unit 1b. In step S24, the first control unit 1b extracts the content of the information to be displayed as display information based on the received input information.

[0104] In step S25, the content of the extracted information is output as display information to the second control unit 2. In step S26, the second control unit 2 transmits the display information output via the amount display unit 3 to the smartphone 40. Then, in step S27, the fourth control unit 40c of the smartphone 40 displays the transmitted display information on the display unit 40a.

[0105] Control when the first reading sheet 20 is inserted will be described with reference to FIG. 6. Steps S1 to S4 are the same as those in the first embodiment. In step S4, after display information is output to the second control unit 2, the second control unit 2 transmits the display information from the amount display unit 3 to the communication unit 40b of the smartphone 40 via the second communication unit 3b. Then, in step S5, the fourth control unit 40c displays the display information on the display unit 40a. The other configurations of the third embodiment are the same as those of the second embodiment.

[0106] (Effects of the third embodiment) In the third embodiment, as described above, the second control unit 2 is configured to perform control to cause the amount display unit 3 to display display information including at least one of details about banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit 1 and details about the status of the banknote processing unit 1, and the amount display unit 3 is arranged on the outer surface of the vending machine main body 10a. As a result, an operator can simply insert the first reading sheet 20 into the vending machine 10, and the display information including at least one of details about banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit 1 and details about the status of the banknote processing unit 1 can be viewed from outside the vending machine 10. As a result, there is no need to open the outer door 10b of the vending machine 10 and remove the banknote processing unit 1 in order to obtain information from the banknote processing unit 1, and information about the banknote processing unit 1 can be easily obtained and displayed so as to be visible from outside.

[0107] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the second control unit 2 is configured to perform control to cause the amount display unit 3 to display display information including at least one of details about banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit 1 and details about the status of the banknote processing unit 1, and the amount display unit 3 is arranged on the outer surface of the vending machine main body 10a or outside the vending machine 10. As a result, an operator can simply insert the first reading sheet 20 into the vending machine 10, and the display information is displayed on the amount display unit 3 arranged on the outer surface of the vending machine 10 or on a display unit arranged outside the vending machine 10, allowing the operator to visually confirm the display information including at least one of details about banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit 1 and details about the status of the banknote processing unit 1 from outside the vending machine 10. As a result, there is no need to open the outer door 10b of the vending machine 10 and remove the banknote processing unit 1 in order to obtain information from the banknote processing unit 1, and therefore the information from the banknote processing unit 1 can be easily obtained and displayed so that it can be viewed from outside.

[0108] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the display unit is the display unit 40a of a smartphone 40 that can communicate with the vending machine 10, and the second control unit 2 is configured to accept an operation from the smartphone 40 and perform control to transmit display information output from the banknote processing unit 1 to the smartphone 40 so that the display information is displayed on the smartphone 40. As a result, by operating the smartphone 40, the worker can display information about the banknote processing unit 1 on the display unit 40a of the smartphone 40, allowing the worker to obtain information about the banknote processing unit 1 more easily.

[0109] The other effects of the third embodiment are the same as those of the second embodiment.

[0110] [Variations] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims rather than the above description of the embodiments, and further includes all modifications (variations) within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0111] For example, in the first to third embodiments, an example was shown in which the bill reading unit and the sheet reading unit were both used, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the bill reading unit and the sheet reading unit may be provided as separate units.

[0112] In the first to third embodiments, the sheet reading unit includes an irradiation unit and a light receiving unit, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the sheet reading unit may include a magnetic detection unit. In this case, the sheet reading unit may be configured to read information from the first reading sheet and the second reading sheet by magnetism.

[0113] In the first to third embodiments, an example is shown in which the first reading sheet and the second reading sheet are provided with a graphic indicating the read information, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the first reading sheet and the second reading sheet may be provided with characters indicating the read information. In this case, the banknote processing unit may obtain the read information by character recognition.

[0114] In addition, in the first to third embodiments, examples have been shown in which the first control unit and the second control unit are provided separately, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the first control unit and the second control unit may be a single control unit. In this case, the single control unit may perform control from reading the read information to displaying the display information on the display unit.

[0115] Furthermore, in the first to third embodiments, examples have been shown in which the second reading sheet is provided, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the second reading sheet does not necessarily have to be provided.

[0116] In addition, in the above first to third embodiments, an example was shown in which the display unit is a price display unit, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the display unit may be a display unit that displays advertisements or the like that are separate from the price display unit. In this case, the display information may be displayed in the form of characters.

[0117] Furthermore, in the first to third embodiments, an example in which there are three sheet reading units is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, there may be one, two, or four or more sheet reading units. Correspondingly, one, two, or four or more pieces of read information may be arranged on the first reading sheet.

[0118] In addition, although the first embodiment has been described above as an example in which three pieces of display information are displayed, the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the number of pieces of display information that are displayed may be one, two, or four or more.

[0119] In the second embodiment, the terminal is a handheld terminal, and in the third embodiment, the terminal is a smartphone, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the terminal is not particularly limited as long as it is a mobile terminal including a laptop computer.

[0120] Furthermore, in the second and third embodiments, examples have been shown in which the display information is displayed on the display unit of the terminal, but the present invention is not limited to this. The display information may also be displayed on the display unit of the vending machine. Furthermore, the display information may be displayed on only one of the display unit of the terminal or the display unit of the vending machine, or may be displayed on both. In this case, the display information may be displayed on the display unit of the vending machine by the first reading sheet, and may be displayed on the display unit of the terminal by operating the terminal. [Explanation of symbols]

[0121] 1. Banknote processing unit 1a Sheet reading unit 1b First control section 2 Second control section 3 Amount display section (display section) 5 Bill slot 10. Vending Machines 10a Vending machine main body 20 First reading sheet 20a, 21a patterns 21 Second reading sheet 30 Handy terminal (terminal) 30a, 40a display section 40 Smartphones (devices) 100, 200, 300 Vending Machine System

Claims

1. a banknote processing unit that performs processing to determine whether banknotes are valid; A display unit disposed on the outer surface of the vending machine main body; a control unit; the banknote processing unit includes a sheet reading unit that reads read information attached to a first reading sheet inserted through a banknote insertion slot, The control unit is configured to obtain display information including at least one of information regarding the banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit and information regarding the status of the banknote processing unit based on the reading information read by the sheet reading unit, and to perform control to display the display information on the display unit.

2. The vending machine according to claim 1 , wherein the first reading sheet has substantially the same size as the banknotes inserted into the banknote processing section.

3. 2. The vending machine according to claim 1, wherein a bill reading unit that reads information about the state of the bill used to determine whether the bill is valid also serves as the sheet reading unit.

4. The vending machine according to claim 1 , wherein the first reading sheet has a pattern corresponding to the read information.

5. The banknote processing unit has a plurality of the sheet reading units, 2. The vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the first reading sheet has the reading information written at a plurality of positions corresponding to the positions of the plurality of sheet reading units.

6. 2. The vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to control the display unit to display the display information including at least one of the total number of the inserted banknotes and the ratio of the inserted banknotes determined to be appropriate to the total number of the inserted banknotes, as content related to the banknotes.

7. The vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to control the display unit to display the display information including an operating time of the banknote processing unit as content related to the state of the banknote processing unit.

8. 6. The vending machine according to claim 5, wherein the different read information is configured to correspond to the display information including at least one of the total number of the banknotes inserted, the ratio of the banknotes determined to be appropriate to the total number of the banknotes inserted, and the operating time of the banknote processing unit.

9. the control unit includes a first control unit that is provided in the banknote processing unit and performs processing to determine whether the banknote is appropriate, and a second control unit that is provided separately from the banknote processing unit and performs control to display the display information on the display unit, The vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the first control unit is configured to perform control to identify the type of content of information to be displayed as the display information based on the read information read by the sheet reading unit, control to extract the content of the identified type, and control to output information including the extracted content to the second control unit as the display information.

10. The vending machine of claim 1, wherein the banknote processing unit is configured to, when a second reading sheet bearing the reading information regarding the criteria for determining whether the banknote is valid is inserted, either change the criteria for determining whether the banknote is valid or stop accepting the banknote based on the read reading information.

11. The vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the display unit is an amount display unit that displays at least the amount of money inserted.

12. The vending machine according to claim 11, wherein the control unit is configured to cause the price display unit to display a combination of a number indicating the type of the display information and a numerical value indicating the content of the display information.

13. a vending machine including a banknote processing unit that performs processing to determine whether banknotes are valid, and a control unit; A display unit disposed on the outer surface of the vending machine main body or outside the vending machine, the banknote processing unit includes a sheet reading unit that reads read information attached to a reading sheet inserted through a banknote insertion slot, The control unit is configured to obtain display information including at least one of information regarding the banknotes processed in the banknote processing unit and information regarding the status of the banknote processing unit based on the read information read by the sheet reading unit, and to perform control to display the display information on the display unit.

14. The display unit is a display unit of a terminal capable of communicating with the vending machine, The control unit is configured to control transmission of the display information output from the banknote processing unit to the terminal to display it on the terminal by accepting an operation from the terminal. The vending machine system according to claim 13.

Images