Currency processing device, currency processing system and cassette

Abstract

To provide a means for increasing the number of denominations that can be accommodated in denomination-specific storage while suppressing an increase in the size of a device by enabling a cassette to be used as a denomination-specific storage section. [Solution] The currency processing device 100, 200 is equipped with a storage and dispensing section that stores and dispenses currency by denomination, a cassette mounting section in which cassettes that store and dispense currency are detachably attached to the device main body, and a setting section that sets the purpose of the cassette mounted in the cassette mounting section, and the setting section can set the cassette to a delivery cassette 300a or a storage cassette 300b, and the currency processing device is capable of dispensing stored currency from cassette 300b, which has been set for storage use, to a withdrawal port.

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] There is a system that uses a detachable cassette for a currency handling device when transferring currency between currency handling devices. Specifically, the cassette containing currency is removed from one currency handling device and attached to the other currency handling device, thereby transferring currency from one currency handling device to the other currency handling device.

[0003] Patent document 1 discloses a currency processing device that includes a cassette mounting section to which storage cassettes that store and dispense stored currency are detachably mounted, a storage and dispensing section that stores currency and can dispense the stored currency, a control section that controls the sending of currency from the storage and dispensing section to an empty storage cassette mounted to the cassette mounting section depending on the currency storage state in the storage and dispensing section, and a use determination means that determines the use of the storage cassette mounted to the cassette mounting section depending on the currency storage state in the storage and dispensing section. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-8463 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Although currency handling devices have storage sections for storing currency by denomination (hereinafter referred to as "denomination-specific storage sections"), there is a demand for additional storage sections for other denominations (for example, 10,000 yen bills). However, providing separate storage sections for such other denominations would result in an increase in the size of the currency handling device.

[0006] The present invention aims to provide a means for enabling a cassette to be used as a denomination-specific storage section, thereby increasing the number of denominations that can be accommodated in the denomination-specific storage while preventing the device from becoming larger. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention, which achieves the above-mentioned object, is a currency processing device that transports and processes currency, and comprises a denomination-specific storage section that stores and dispenses currency by denomination, a cassette mounting section in which cassettes that store and dispense currency are detachably attached to the device main body, and a setting section that sets the purpose of the cassette mounted on the cassette mounting section, wherein the setting section is at least capable of setting the purpose of the cassette to be for denomination-specific storage, and the currency stored in the cassette that has been set for use as denomination-specific storage can be dispensed to a withdrawal port. Here, the currency handling device may be configured to further include an acquisition unit that acquires cassette information of the cassette attached to the cassette attachment unit. The currency processing device may further include a first judgment unit that judges whether the cassette attached to the cassette attachment section satisfies a first condition, and when the attached cassette is removed and another cassette is attached to the cassette attachment section, the acquisition unit acquires cassette information of the newly attached cassette, and the first judgment unit may be configured to judge whether the newly attached cassette satisfies the first condition based on the cassette information of the newly attached cassette and the cassette information of the cassette previously attached to the cassette attachment section. More specifically, the setting unit can set the use of the cassette to be for transferring currency between the device itself and another currency processing device, and the first judgment unit can be configured to determine whether a second cassette set for transferring currency is different from the first cassette when a first cassette set for storing currency by denomination is removed and a second cassette set for transferring currency is attached. Furthermore, the first judgment unit may be configured to judge whether the second condition is satisfied with respect to the first to third cassettes when, after the second cassette is installed and then the second cassette is removed and a third cassette configured for storing denominations by type is installed. The first determination unit may be configured to determine whether the third cassette and the first cassette are the same cassette. In addition, the cassette may be provided with an openable / closable opening / closing section for accessing the space for storing coins, and the first determination section may be configured to determine whether the opening / closing section has been opened while the third cassette is removed from the cassette mounting section when the first cassette and the third cassette are the same cassette. In addition, the first judgment unit may be configured to determine whether, when the first cassette and the third cassette are the same cassette, the currency storage status when the first cassette is removed is the same as the currency storage status when the third cassette is installed. The first determination unit may be configured to determine whether or not the time when the second cassette is mounted and the time when the third cassette is mounted satisfy a third condition. The first determination unit may also be configured to determine whether the user who removed the first cassette and installed the second cassette is the same user as the user who removed the second cassette and installed the third cassette. Furthermore, the configuration may be such that the execution of currency processing using the newly installed cassette is restricted depending on the judgment result of the first judgment unit for the newly installed cassette. The cassette storage device may further include a notification unit that notifies a user of information relating to the determination result made by the first determination unit with respect to the newly attached cassette. In addition, the setting unit may be capable of changing the setting of the cassette's use from storage by denomination to delivery, including at least one of deposit processing and withdrawal processing, when the cassette is attached to the cassette attachment unit. Furthermore, the configuration may further include an alarm unit that alerts the user if coins are stored in the cassette when the cassette's use setting is changed from storage by denomination to transfer. The cassette mounting section may be configured to be able to remove the cassette when the cassette is set for the transfer by the setting section. In addition, the currency processing device may further include a second judgment unit that, when the power of the device main body is turned on, determines whether the cassette attached to the cassette attachment section is the same as the cassette that was attached to the cassette attachment section when the power of the device main body was turned off, and may be configured to restrict the execution of currency processing using the cassette if the second judgment unit determines that the cassette is not the same. Furthermore, the cassette may be provided with an openable / closable opening / closing section for accessing the space for storing coins, and when the second judgment unit determines that the cassettes are the same, it may further determine whether the opening / closing section of the cassette was opened while the cassette was powered off, and when the second judgment unit determines that the opening / closing section of the cassette was opened, it may be configured to restrict the execution of coin processing using the cassette. Another invention that achieves the above-mentioned object is a currency handling system that includes a currency handling device that transports and processes currency, wherein the currency handling device comprises a denomination-specific storage section that stores and dispenses currency by denomination, a cassette mounting section in which cassettes that store and dispense currency are detachably attached to the device main body, and an acquisition section that acquires setting information from an external device that sets the purpose of the cassette mounted in the cassette mounting section, and the currency handling device is at least capable of setting the purpose of the cassette to be for denomination-specific storage based on the setting information, and is capable of dispensing currency stored in a cassette that has been set for use as denomination-specific storage to a withdrawal port. Furthermore, another invention that achieves the above-mentioned object is a cassette that is detachably attached to a cassette attachment section of a currency processing device that transports and processes currency, and is equipped with a storage section for storing currency and a use identification section that enables the currency processing device to identify the use of the cassette set in the currency processing device, and when the use is set to store currency by denomination, the cassette can be fed out of the storage section to be dispensed from the withdrawal port of the currency processing device. More specifically, the use identification unit may be a recording unit for identification information that can identify the use of the cassette set in the currency processing device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, the cassette can be used as a denomination-specific storage section, and a means can be realized for increasing the number of denominations that can be accommodated in the denomination-specific storage while preventing the device from becoming larger. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a currency handling system according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a change machine and a POS register connected to the change machine. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the change dispenser. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a depositing / dispensing machine. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the depositing and dispensing machine. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing a cassette replacement procedure during delivery. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. <System configuration> Figure 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a currency handling system according to this embodiment. The currency handling system 10 shown in Figure 1 is used for handling currency in a commercial facility such as a convenience store or supermarket. Such a store generally has a front area A1 where customers can enter and a back area A2 where customers are prohibited from entering.

[0011] In the front area A1, product shelves displaying various products are installed, and a cashier (e.g., a face-to-face cash register counter) is also installed with a change machine 100 and a POS (Point of Sale) register 400 (see FIG. 2). If multiple cashiers are installed in the front area A1, each cashier is provided with a change machine 100 and a POS register 400. Note that the POS register 400 is omitted from FIG. 1. When a customer performs a cashiering process at such a cashier, a store clerk deposits the money received from the customer as payment for the products into the change machine 100, or dispenses the money from the change machine 100 as change and returns it to the customer. The POS register 400 also manages information related to the products purchased by the customer and information related to the money stored in the change machine 100.

[0012] A depositing / dispensing machine 200 is installed in the backyard area A2. The depositing / dispensing machine 200 processes the deposit of currency as store sales revenue collected from the change machine 100. Furthermore, when the change machine 100 does not have enough currency to provide change, the depositing / dispensing machine 200 dispenses currency as a change fund and replenishes the change machine 100.

[0013] The currency handling system 10 includes a change machine 100 provided in the front area A1 and a depositing / dispensing machine 200 provided in the backyard area A2. The change machine 100 and the depositing / dispensing machine 200 are examples of currency handling devices. In the currency handling system 10, currency is transferred between the change machine 100 and the depositing / dispensing machine 200 using a cassette 300. The cassette 300 is configured to be detachable from the change machine 100 and the depositing / dispensing machine 200.

[0014] <Configuration of cassette 300> The cassette 300 is configured to be able to store currency and dispense the stored currency. In the following description, it is assumed that the cassette 300 is used to store and dispense banknotes. A cassette 300 is provided for each change dispenser 100 installed in the front area A1. Each cassette 300 is assigned identification information for identifying the individual cassette 300. The identification information may be, for example, ID information set for each cassette 300 at the time of manufacture, or an identification number assigned individually by the depositing / dispensing machine 200 or the change dispenser 100 when the cassette 300 is used. The identification information is an example of cassette information.

[0015] The cassette 300 has a housing 310 of a predetermined shape (for example, a substantially rectangular parallelepiped) and size. Banknotes are stored in the space inside the housing 310 of the cassette 300. The housing 310 is an example of a storage unit in the cassette 300. The cassette 300 is provided with a memory unit 320 that stores various information such as identification information and information related to the stored banknotes. An IC tag or the like is used as the memory unit 320. As will be described in detail later, setting information on the purpose of the cassette 300 is stored in the memory unit 320. The setting information on the purpose of the cassette 300 is set by, for example, the change dispenser 100 or the depositing / dispensing machine 200 and written to the memory unit 320. The memory unit 320 is an example of a purpose specifying unit.

[0016] An opening 330 is provided on the side of the cassette 300. When the cassette 300 is attached to the change machine 100 or the depositing / dispensing machine 200, banknotes are sent from a transport unit (described later) of the change machine 100 or the depositing / dispensing machine 200 through the opening 330 into the cassette 300 and stored therein. In this state, banknotes fed from inside the cassette 300 are sent to the transport unit of the change machine 100 or the depositing / dispensing machine 200 through the opening 330. The cassette 300 is provided with a banknote feeding mechanism that feeds the stored banknotes to the outside through the opening 330. The banknote feeding mechanism of the cassette 300 operates by receiving power from the change machine 100 or the depositing / dispensing machine 200 when the cassette 300 is attached to the change machine 100 or the depositing / dispensing machine 200, for example.

[0017] The cassette 300 is also provided with an opening / closing unit (not shown), such as an openable / closable lid. When the opening / closing unit is open, the interior of the housing 310 of the cassette 300 becomes accessible even when the cassette 300 is not attached to the change dispenser 100 or the depositing / dispensing machine 200, allowing for the insertion and removal of banknotes. The structure of the opening / closing unit is not limited as long as it is openable, closable, and lockable. For example, it may be a door-like unit or a shutter-like unit. The opening / closing unit is controlled by a locking function so that only authorized users can open and close it. The cassette 300 is also configured to be able to identify the opening / closing operation when it is performed. Specifically, for example, the cassette 300 may be provided with an IC chip or the like that is linked to the opening / closing unit and records information indicating that an opening / closing operation has been performed.

[0018] <Configuration of the change dispenser 100> Fig. 2 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the change machine 100 and a POS register 400 connected to the change machine 100. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the change machine 100. The change machine 100 includes a banknote processing device 110, a coin processing device 120, and a wrapped coin storage device 130.

[0019] In the configuration shown in Fig. 2, the coin processing device 120 and the wrapped coin storage device 130 are arranged side by side one above the other. The banknote processing device 110 is arranged next to the coin processing device 120 and the wrapped coin storage device 130. An operation and display unit 150 is provided on the top of the coin processing device 120. A touch panel, for example, is used as the operation and display unit 150. A POS register 400 is placed on the top surfaces of the banknote processing device 110 and the coin processing device 120. The POS register 400 can be used as a management device that manages the change machine 100.

[0020] The banknote processing device 110 processes the deposit and withdrawal of banknotes. The coin processing device 120 processes the deposit and withdrawal of coins. The wrapped coin storage device 130 stores wrapped coins in a removable manner. Wrapped coins are a set number of coins of the same denomination (for example, 20 or 50 coins) bundled together in a rod shape and wrapped in film, wrapping paper, or the like. Media other than banknotes and coins (for example, gift certificates, etc.) are stored in the wrapped coin storage device 130, for example.

[0021] The banknote handling device 110 is provided with an input unit, a transport unit, a recognition unit, and a dispensing unit. Note that these parts are omitted from the illustration in Fig. 2 as appropriate. Furthermore, no reference numerals are assigned to the individual parts. The input unit is a unit where banknotes are input from the outside to the inside of the banknote handling device 110. The transport unit is a mechanism that transports banknotes one by one inside the banknote handling device 110. The recognition unit is a functional unit that identifies the denomination, authenticity, fitness, transport status, etc. of banknotes transported by the transport unit. The dispensing unit is a unit that dispenses banknotes from the inside to the outside of the banknote handling device 110.

[0022] The banknote handling machine 110 is also provided with a storage and feeding unit 111 (see FIG. 3) that stores banknotes transported by the transport unit and is capable of feeding the stored banknotes one by one to the transport unit. The banknote handling machine 110 separates banknotes by denomination and stores them in the storage and feeding unit 111. The storage and feeding unit 111 is an example of a denomination-specific storage unit. The banknote handling machine 110 is also provided with a banknote processing unit 112 that processes banknotes.

[0023] The banknote handling apparatus 110 is also provided with a cassette mounting unit 113 (see FIG. 3 ) to which the cassette 300 is attached. With the cassette 300 attached to the cassette mounting unit 113, banknotes are stored in and fed out of the cassette 300. Specifically, a transport unit (not shown) provided in the banknote handling apparatus 110 sends banknotes into the cassette 300 through an opening 330 of the cassette 300. Furthermore, the banknotes stored inside the cassette 300 are fed out to the transport unit of the banknote handling apparatus 110 through the opening 330.

[0024] Although not specifically shown, the banknote processing device 110 is provided with a means for transmitting power to the banknote feeding mechanism of the cassette 300 when the cassette 300 is attached to the cassette attachment unit 113. This makes it possible to feed banknotes on the condition that the cassette 300 is attached to the cassette attachment unit 113. Therefore, when the cassette 300 is removed from the cassette attachment unit 113, the banknotes stored therein cannot be fed out through the opening 330.

[0025] The banknote processing device 110 is also provided with a reader / writer 114 (see FIG. 3). The reader / writer 114 reads information from the memory unit 320 of the cassette 300 attached to the cassette attachment unit 113, and writes information to the memory unit 320. The reader / writer 114 is an example of an acquisition unit.

[0026] The coin processing device 120 is provided with an insertion section, a transport section, a recognition section, and a dispensing section. Note that these sections are omitted from the illustration in Figure 2 as appropriate. Furthermore, no reference numerals are assigned to the individual sections. The insertion section is a section where coins are inserted from the outside of the coin processing device 120 to the inside. The transport section is a mechanism that transports coins one by one inside the coin processing device 120. The recognition section is a functional section that identifies the denomination, authenticity, fitness, transport status, etc. of coins transported by the transport section. The dispensing section is a section that dispenses coins from the inside of the coin processing device 120 to the outside.

[0027] The coin processing device 120 is also provided with a storage and feeding unit 121 (see FIG. 3) that stores coins transported by the transport unit and is capable of feeding the stored coins one by one to the transport unit. The coin processing device 120 separates coins by denomination and stores them in the storage and feeding unit 121. The storage and feeding unit 121 is an example of a denomination-specific storage unit. The coin processing device 120 is also provided with a coin processing unit 122 that processes coins.

[0028] The wrapped coin storage device 130 is provided with a storage drawer and a locking mechanism 131 (see FIG. 3). Note that the storage drawer is not shown in FIG. 2 and is not assigned a reference number. The storage drawer is configured to be able to be pulled out from inside the housing of the wrapped coin storage device 130 to the front. The storage drawer is capable of storing multiple wrapped coins. An operator can pull the storage drawer out from inside the housing of the wrapped coin storage device 130 to the front, and take out or store wrapped coins in the storage drawer. The locking mechanism 131 locks the storage drawer while it is housed inside the housing of the wrapped coin storage device 130. The locking by the locking mechanism 131 is managed so that only authorized users can release it. Media other than banknotes and coins (for example, gift certificates) can also be stored in the storage drawer.

[0029] Next, the control system of the change machine 100 will be described. As shown in Fig. 3, the change machine 100 includes a control unit 140. The control unit 140 includes, for example, one or more processors serving as calculation means, and a main memory serving as storage means. The processor implements various functions of the change machine 100 by reading and executing programs. Examples of processors that can be used include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and DSP (Digital Signal Processor). Examples of main storage devices that can be used include a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0030] The banknote processing device 110, the coin processing device 120, and the wrapped coin storage device 130 are connected to the control unit 140. As a result, information read from the memory unit 320 of the cassette 300 by the reader / writer 114 of the banknote processing device 110 is sent to the control unit 140. In addition, the control unit 140 sends commands to the banknote processing device 110, the coin processing device 120, and the wrapped coin storage device 130 to control each unit.

[0031] Furthermore, the control unit 140 executes a program to realize the functions of the purpose setting unit 141 and the functions of the first determination unit 142 and second determination unit 143. The purpose setting unit 141 sets the purpose of the cassette 300. In this embodiment, by setting the purpose of the cassette 300 using the purpose setting unit 141, the cassette 300 can be used for purposes other than the transfer of currency between the change dispenser 100 and the depositing / dispensing machine 200. The purpose of the cassette 300 and the details of the purpose setting by the purpose setting unit 141 will be described later. The first determination unit 142 determines whether or not predetermined conditions are met regarding the identification result and state of the cassette 300 during normal operation. The second determination unit 143 determines whether or not predetermined conditions are met regarding the identification result and state of the cassette 300 when the power is turned on. The details of the determinations by the first determination unit 142 and the second determination unit 143 will be described later.

[0032] Also connected to the control unit 140 are an operation / display unit 150, a storage unit 160, a communication interface unit 170, and a printing unit 180. The operation / display unit 150 is realized by, for example, a touch panel. The storage unit 160 is an auxiliary storage device of the control unit 140. For example, a magnetic disk device or an SSD (Solid State Drive) is used as the auxiliary storage device.

[0033] The operation display unit 150 displays various information obtained from the banknote processing device 110, the coin processing device 120, the wrapped coin storage device 130, etc. The information displayed on the operation display unit 150 includes, for example, information on the inventory of banknotes and coins stored in the banknote processing device 110, the coin processing device 120, and the wrapped coin storage device 130, information on the processing status of banknotes and coins, etc. The operation display unit 150 also displays an operation screen for the user to perform operations. The operator can input various commands to the control unit 140 by performing input operations in accordance with the operation screen.

[0034] The memory unit 160 stores various information obtained from the banknote processing device 110, the coin processing device 120, the wrapped coin storage device 130, etc. The information stored in the memory unit 160 includes, for example, information on the inventory of banknotes and coins stored in the banknote processing device 110, the coin processing device 120, and the wrapped coin storage device 130, information on the processing history of banknotes and coins, etc. The memory unit 160 also stores transaction history information on replenishment and collection of currency (described later). Such transaction history information may include identification information (ID, etc.) of the user who performed the transaction.

[0035] The communication interface unit 170 is an interface for connecting to an external device and exchanging data. The control unit 140 communicates with external devices such as the POS register 400 via the communication interface unit 170.

[0036] The printing unit 180 is a functional unit that prints out various types of information on paper media such as receipts, etc. The information that the printing unit 180 prints out includes, for example, information on the inventory of banknotes and coins stored in the banknote processing device 110, the coin processing device 120, and the wrapped coin storage device 130, information on the processing history of banknotes and coins, etc.

[0037] <Configuration of depositing / dispensing machine 200> Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the depositing and dispensing machine 200. Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the depositing and dispensing machine 200. The depositing and dispensing machine 200 includes a banknote processing device 210, a coin processing device 220, and a wrapped-coin storage device 230.

[0038] In the configuration shown in Fig. 4, the banknote processing device 210 and the coin processing device 220 are arranged side by side on the left and right when viewed from the front side of the depositing and dispensing machine 200. The wrapped coin storage device 230 is arranged below the banknote processing device 210 and the coin processing device 220. An operation and display unit 250 is provided on the top of the coin processing device 220. A touch panel, for example, is used as the operation and display unit 250.

[0039] The banknote processing device 210 processes deposits and withdrawals of banknotes. The coin processing device 220 processes deposits and withdrawals of coins. The wrapped coin storage device 230 stores wrapped coins in a removable manner. Media other than banknotes and coins (e.g., gift certificates) are stored in the wrapped coin storage device 230, for example.

[0040] The banknote handling machine 210 is provided with an input unit, a transport unit, a recognition unit, and a dispensing unit. Note that these units are omitted from the illustration in Fig. 4 as appropriate. Furthermore, no reference numerals are assigned to the individual units. The input unit is a unit where banknotes are input from the outside to the inside of the banknote handling machine 210. The transport unit is a mechanism that transports banknotes one by one inside the banknote handling machine 210. The recognition unit is a functional unit that identifies the denomination, authenticity, fitness, transport status, etc. of banknotes transported by the transport unit. The dispensing unit is a unit that dispenses banknotes from the inside to the outside of the banknote handling machine 210.

[0041] The banknote handling machine 210 is also provided with a storage and feeding unit 211 (see FIG. 5) that stores banknotes transported by the transport unit and is capable of feeding the stored banknotes one by one to the transport unit. The banknote handling machine 210 separates banknotes by denomination and stores them in the storage and feeding unit 211. The storage and feeding unit 211 is an example of a denomination-specific storage unit. The banknote handling machine 110 is also provided with a banknote processing unit 212 that processes banknotes.

[0042] The banknote handling device 210 is also provided with a removable collection cassette (not shown) that stores the banknotes sent from the transport unit. A security guard from a security company or the like can collect the banknotes stored in the collection cassette from the banknote handling device 210 together with the collection cassette.

[0043] The banknote handling machine 210 is also provided with a cassette mounting unit 213 (see FIG. 5 ) to which the cassette 300 is attached. With the cassette 300 attached to the cassette mounting unit 213, banknotes are stored in and fed out of the cassette 300. Specifically, a transport unit (not shown) provided in the banknote handling machine 210 sends banknotes into the cassette 300 through an opening 330 of the cassette 300. Furthermore, the banknotes stored inside the cassette 300 are fed out to the transport unit of the banknote handling machine 210 through the opening 330.

[0044] Although not specifically shown, the banknote processing device 210 is provided with a means for transmitting power to the banknote feeding mechanism of the cassette 300 when the cassette 300 is attached to the cassette attachment unit 213. This makes it possible to feed banknotes on the condition that the cassette 300 is attached to the cassette attachment unit 213. Therefore, when the cassette 300 is removed from the cassette attachment unit 213, the banknotes stored therein cannot be fed out through the opening 330.

[0045] The banknote processing device 210 is also provided with a reader / writer 214 (see FIG. 5). The reader / writer 214 reads information from the memory unit 320 of the cassette 300 attached to the cassette attachment unit 213, and writes information to the memory unit 320. The reader / writer 214 is an example of an acquisition unit.

[0046] The coin processing device 220 is provided with an insertion section, a transport section, a recognition section, and a dispensing section. Note that these sections are omitted from the illustration in Figure 4 as appropriate. Furthermore, no reference numerals are assigned to the individual sections. The insertion section is a section where coins are inserted from the outside of the coin processing device 220 to the inside. The transport section is a mechanism that transports coins one by one inside the coin processing device 220. The recognition section is a functional section that identifies the denomination, authenticity, fitness, transport status, etc. of coins transported by the transport section. The dispensing section is a section that dispenses coins from the inside of the coin processing device 220 to the outside.

[0047] The coin processing device 220 is also provided with a storage and feeding unit 221 (see FIG. 5) that stores coins transported by the transport unit and is capable of feeding the stored coins one by one to the transport unit. The coin processing device 220 separates coins by denomination and stores them in the storage and feeding unit 221. The storage and feeding unit 211 is an example of a denomination-specific storage unit. The coin processing device 120 is also provided with a coin processing unit 222 that processes coins.

[0048] In addition, the coin processing device 220 is provided with a removable collection cassette (not shown) that stores coins sent from the transport section, and security guards from a security company or the like can collect the coins stored in the collection cassette from the coin processing device 220 along with the collection cassette.

[0049] The wrapped coin storage device 230 is provided with a storage drawer and a locking mechanism 231 (see FIG. 5). Note that the storage drawer is not shown in FIG. 4 and is not assigned a reference number. The storage drawer is configured to be able to be pulled out from inside the housing of the wrapped coin storage device 230 to the front. The storage drawer is capable of storing multiple wrapped coins. An operator can pull the storage drawer out from inside the housing of the wrapped coin storage device 230 to the front, and take out or store wrapped coins in the storage drawer. The locking mechanism 231 locks the storage drawer while it is housed inside the housing of the wrapped coin storage device 230. The locking by the locking mechanism 231 is managed so that only authorized users can release it. Media other than banknotes and coins (for example, gift certificates) can also be stored in the storage drawer.

[0050] Next, the control system of the depositing and dispensing machine 200 will be described. As shown in Fig. 5, the depositing and dispensing machine 200 includes a control unit 240. The control unit 240 includes, for example, one or more processors which are calculation means, and a main memory which is storage means. The processor implements various functions of the depositing and dispensing machine 200 by reading and executing programs. Examples of the processor that can be used include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). Examples of the main memory that can be used include a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0051] The banknote processing device 210, the coin processing device 220, and the wrapped coin storage device 230 are connected to the control device 240. As a result, information read from the memory unit 320 of the cassette 300 by the reader / writer 214 of the banknote processing device 210 is sent to the control device 240. In addition, the control device 240 sends commands to the banknote processing device 210, the coin processing device 220, and the wrapped coin storage device 230 to control each unit.

[0052] Furthermore, the control unit 240 executes a program to realize the functions of a usage setting unit 241 and the functions of a first determination unit 242 and a second determination unit 243. The usage setting unit 241 sets the usage of the cassette 300. In this embodiment, by setting the usage of the cassette 300 using the usage setting unit 241, the cassette 300 can be used for usage other than the transfer of currency between the change dispenser 100 and the depositing / dispensing machine 200. Details of the usage of the cassette 300 and the usage setting by the usage setting unit 241 will be described later. During normal operation, the first determination unit 242 determines whether or not predetermined conditions are met regarding the identification result and state of the cassette 300. When the power is turned on, the second determination unit 243 determines whether or not predetermined conditions are met regarding the identification result and state of the cassette 300. Details of the determinations made by the first determination unit 242 and the second determination unit 243 will be described later.

[0053] Also connected to the control unit 240 are an operation / display unit 250, a storage unit 260, a communication interface unit 270, and a printing unit 280. The operation / display unit 250 is realized by, for example, a touch panel. The storage unit 260 is an auxiliary storage device of the control unit 240. For example, a magnetic disk device or an SSD (Solid State Drive) is used as the auxiliary storage device.

[0054] The operation display unit 250 displays various information obtained from the banknote processing device 210, the coin processing device 220, the wrapped coin storage device 230, etc. The information displayed on the operation display unit 250 includes, for example, information on the inventory of banknotes and coins stored in the banknote processing device 210, the coin processing device 220, and the wrapped coin storage device 230, information on the processing status of banknotes and coins, etc. The operation display unit 250 also displays an operation screen for the user to perform operations. The operator can input various commands to the control unit 240 by performing input operations in accordance with the operation screen.

[0055] The storage unit 260 stores various information obtained from the banknote processing device 210, the coin processing device 220, the wrapped coin storage device 230, etc. The information stored in the storage unit 260 includes, for example, information on the inventory of banknotes and coins stored in the banknote processing device 210, the coin processing device 220, and the wrapped coin storage device 230, information on the processing history of banknotes and coins, etc. The storage unit 260 also stores transaction history information on deposits and withdrawals of currency. Such transaction history information may include identification information (ID, etc.) of the user who performed the transaction.

[0056] The communication interface unit 270 is an interface for connecting to an external device and exchanging data. The control unit 240 communicates with external devices such as a management computer or a higher-level terminal provided in a management center of a security transportation company via the communication interface unit 270.

[0057] The printing unit 280 is a functional unit that prints out various types of information on paper media such as receipts, etc. The information that the printing unit 280 prints out includes, for example, information on the inventory of banknotes and coins stored in the banknote processing device 210, the coin processing device 220, and the wrapped coin storage device 230, information on the processing history of banknotes and coins, etc.

[0058] <Cassette 300 Usage Settings> Here, we will explain how to set the use of cassette 300. In the following explanation, the change dispenser 100 and the depositing / dispensing machine 200 may be referred to as currency handling devices 100, 200 without distinction. Furthermore, components common to each device may be referred to by listing the reference numerals of the corresponding components in each device, such as control devices 140, 240 and use setting devices 141, 241.

[0059] In the explanation of the control unit 140 of the change machine 100 and the control unit 240 of the depositing and dispensing machine 200, it was stated that the control units 140, 240 have the function of the use setting units 141, 241. Several uses can be set for the cassette 300 by the use setting units 141, 241. As an example, uses such as "for refilling," "for collection," "for refilling and collection," and "for storage" can be set for the cassette 300.

[0060] "For replenishment" is a setting for using the cassette 300 to replenish coins to the change machine 100 when transferring coins between the change machine 100 and the depositing and dispensing machine 200. "For recovery" is a setting for using the cassette 300 to recover coins from the change machine 100 when transferring coins between the change machine 100 and the depositing and dispensing machine 200. "For replenishment and recovery" is a setting for switching between replenishing coins to the change machine 100 or recovering coins from the change machine 100 depending on whether coins are stored in the cassette 300 and the settings of the currency handling devices 100, 200, etc. Since both of these are used when transferring coins between the change machine 100 and the depositing and dispensing machine 200, hereinafter they will be collectively referred to as "for delivery" unless there is a need to distinguish between them.

[0061] "Delivery" is a setting for using the cassette 300 to transfer currency between the change dispenser 100 and the depositing / dispensing machine 200. This can be considered a normal use of the cassette 300. "Storage" is a setting for using the cassette 300 as a banknote storage unit in the change dispenser 100 and the depositing / dispensing machine 200. This can be considered a special use of the cassette 300. Note that these uses are merely examples, and the types and classifications of uses of the cassette 300 are not limited to these examples. For example, only some of the uses of "delivery," such as "replenishment," "collection," and "replenishment / collection" (for example, only "replenishment" or "collection") may be settable. Furthermore, as long as the setting includes at least a use setting for use in transferring banknotes and a setting for using the cassette 300 as a banknote storage unit, other uses may also be settable.

[0062] Setting information on the use of cassette 300 (hereinafter referred to as "use setting information") is stored in memory unit 320 of cassette 300. When cassette 300 is installed in currency handling devices 100, 200, reader / writers 114, 214 read the use setting information from memory unit 320 of cassette 300 and recognize the use set for the installed cassette 300. The use of cassette 300 is set, for example, by a user performing setting operations using operation display units 150, 250 in currency handling devices 100, 200 in which cassette 300 is installed.

[0063] <Operations of Transferring Money by the Change Machine 100 and the Depositing / Dispensing Machine 200> Next, the operation of transferring money between the change machine 100 and the depositing / dispensing machine 200 will be described. In this embodiment, the transfer of banknotes among the money is performed using a cassette 300. Furthermore, the transfer of money between the change machine 100 and the depositing / dispensing machine 200 is realized as withdrawal and deposit in each device (the change machine 100 and the depositing / dispensing machine 200).

[0064] The transfer of currency between the change machine 100 and the depositing / dispensing machine 200 can be performed in two ways: when currency is dispensed from the change machine 100 and deposited into the depositing / dispensing machine 200, and when currency is dispensed from the depositing / dispensing machine 200 and deposited into the change machine 100. Here, with regard to the change machine 100, dispensing currency as sales proceeds from the change machine 100 is referred to as "collection." Furthermore, depositing currency as a change fund into the change machine 100 is referred to as "replenishment." Below, we will explain the process of collecting sales proceeds from the change machine 100 and storing them in the depositing / dispensing machine 200 (hereinafter also referred to as the "collection process"), and the process of dispensing change funds from the depositing / dispensing machine 200 and replenishing the change machine 100 (hereinafter also referred to as the "replenishment process").

[0065] First, the collection process will be described. An authorized user such as a store manager (hereinafter referred to as the "user in charge") collects coins and non-monetary media (e.g., gift certificates) from the change dispenser 100 at a predetermined time, such as after the store's business hours have ended. Collection of banknotes among the coins is performed using a cassette 300. As a specific operation, for example, the user in charge mounts the cassette 300 in the cassette mounting unit 113 of the banknote processing device 110. The cassette 300 used here is a cassette 300 set for delivery (collection). Furthermore, this cassette 300 is empty (no banknotes are stored) when it is mounted. When the control unit 140 of the change dispenser 100 recognizes that the cassette 300 for delivery has been mounted in the cassette mounting unit 113, it feeds banknotes stored in the storage and feeding unit 111 of the banknote processing device 110 as sales proceeds and stores them in the cassette 300. The operation of storing banknotes from the storing and feeding unit 111 into the cassette 300 is performed in response to an instruction input using the operation and display unit 150 of the change dispenser 100, for example.

[0066] Here, when the cassette 300 set for transfer in the collection process is attached to the cassette attachment unit 113, the control unit 140 may check whether the cassette 300 is empty. If banknotes are stored in the cassette 300, the control unit 140 may notify the user that the cassette 300 is not empty. The notification to the user is performed, for example, by displaying a message on the operation display unit 150.

[0067] The user in charge also performs a dispensing process of the coins stored in the storing and feeding unit 121 of the coin processing device 120 as the proceeds of sales. The user in charge then stores the coins dispensed from the coin processing device 120 in a storage case (not shown). The user in charge also removes media other than banknotes and coins stored in the wrapped coin storage device 130 and stores the removed media in the storage case. The storage of these coins and media is performed manually, for example.

[0068] When banknotes and coins are collected as sales proceeds from the banknote processing device 110, the coin processing device 120, etc., the reader / writer 114 writes information related to the banknotes and coins collected from the banknote processing device 110 and the coin processing device 120 to the memory unit 320 of the cassette 300. The information related to the banknotes and coins may, for example, be the number of each denomination. In addition to the information related to the banknotes and coins, information such as identification information of the checkout counter where the change dispenser 100 is installed and identification information of the user in charge may also be written to the memory unit 320 of the cassette 300. When the user in charge collects money or non-monetary media from the change dispenser 100, information related to the collected money, etc. is printed on a receipt by a printing unit 180 such as a printer. The printed receipt is then stored in a storage case, for example, manually by the user in charge.

[0069] The user in charge who has collected the coins and non-coin media from the change machine 100 in the front area A1 carries the cassette 300 and the storage case from the front area A1 to the backyard area A2. The user in charge then mounts the cassette 300 in the cassette mounting unit 213 of the banknote processing device 210 of the depositing / dispensing machine 200. As a result, the banknotes stored in the cassette 300 as sales proceeds are fed from the cassette 300 and sent to the inside of the banknote processing device 210, and stored in the storage / feeding unit 211.

[0070] Here, when the cassette 300 set for delivery in the collection process is attached to the cassette attachment unit 213, the control unit 240 of the depositing / dispensing machine 200 may check whether or not banknotes are stored in the cassette 300. If no banknotes are stored in the cassette 300, the control unit 240 may notify the user that the cassette 300 is empty. The notification to the user is performed, for example, by displaying a message on the operation / display unit 250.

[0071] The user in charge also takes out coins as sales proceeds from the storage case and deposits them into the coin processing device 220. As a result, the coins as sales proceeds collected from the coin processing device 120 are stored in the storage and feeding unit 221 of the coin processing device 220. The user in charge also takes out media other than banknotes and coins from the storage case and stores them in the wrapped coin storage device 230. The storage of coins and media is performed manually, for example.

[0072] When the cassette 300 is attached to the cassette attachment unit 213 of the banknote processing device 210 of the depositing / dispensing machine 200, the reader / writer 214 reads the information stored in the memory unit 320 of this cassette 300. As a result, information related to the banknotes and coins collected from the banknote processing device 110 and the coin processing device 120 and stored in the cassette 300 (for example, the number of banknotes and coins of each denomination) is stored in the memory unit 260 of the depositing / dispensing machine 200 and managed by the control unit 240.

[0073] Next, the replenishment process will be described. At a predetermined timing, such as before the opening hours of the store, the user in charge dispenses coins and banknotes that should be stored in the change machine 100 for use as change (i.e., as a change reserve) from the depositing and dispensing machine 200. Replenishing of banknotes among the currency is performed using the cassette 300. As a specific operation, for example, the user in charge mounts the cassette 300 in the cassette mounting unit 213 of the banknote processing device 210. The cassette 300 used here is the cassette 300 set for delivery (replenishment). When the control unit 240 of the depositing and dispensing machine 200 recognizes that the cassette 300 for delivery has been mounted in the cassette mounting unit 213, it feeds out banknotes stored in the storage and feeding unit 211 of the banknote processing device 210 as a change reserve and stores them in the cassette 300. The operation of storing banknotes from the storing and feeding unit 211 into the cassette 300 is performed in response to an instruction input using the operation display unit 250 of the depositing / dispensing machine 200, for example.

[0074] Here, when the cassette 300 set for transfer in the replenishment process is attached to the cassette attachment unit 213, the control unit 240 may check whether the cassette 300 is empty of banknotes. If banknotes are stored in the cassette 300, the control unit 240 may notify the user that the cassette 300 is not empty. The notification to the user is performed, for example, by displaying a message on the operation display unit 250.

[0075] The user in charge also performs a dispensing process for the coins stored in the storing and feeding unit 221 of the coin processing device 220. Then, the user in charge stores the coins dispensed from the coin processing device 220 as change reserve in a storage case (not shown). The user in charge also takes out wrapped coins stored in the wrapped coin storage device 230 and stores the taken-out wrapped coins in the storage case. These coins and wrapped coins are stored manually, for example.

[0076] When banknotes and coins are dispensed as change reserves from the banknote processing device 210, the coin processing device 220, etc., the reader / writer 214 writes information related to the banknotes and coins dispensed from the banknote processing device 210 and the coin processing device 220, etc., into the memory unit 320 of the cassette 300. Information related to the banknotes and coins includes, for example, the number of each denomination and the amount. In addition to the information related to the banknotes and coins, identification information of the checkout counter where the change dispenser 100 to which the dispensed banknotes and coins should be replenished is installed, and identification information of the user who performed the dispensing process may also be written into the memory unit 320 of the cassette 300.

[0077] Then, when the banknotes and coins as change reserve are stored in the cassette 300 and the storage case, the user in charge carries the cassette 300 and the storage case from the backyard area A2 to the front area A1. The user in charge then mounts the cassette 300 in the cassette mounting unit 113 of the banknote processing device 110 of the change dispenser 100. As a result, the banknotes as change reserve stored in the cassette 300 are fed from the cassette 300 and sent into the banknote processing device 110, where they are stored in the storage and feeding unit 111.

[0078] Here, when the cassette 300 set for delivery in the replenishment process is attached to the cassette attachment unit 113, the control unit 140 may check whether or not banknotes are stored in the cassette 300. If no banknotes are stored in the cassette 300, the control unit 140 may notify the user that the cassette 300 is empty. The notification to the user is performed, for example, by displaying a message on the operation display unit 150.

[0079] The user in charge also takes out coins as change reserve from the storage case and deposits them into the coin processing device 120. As a result, the coins as change reserve dispensed from the coin processing device 220 are stored in the storage and feeding unit 121 of the coin processing device 120. The user in charge also takes out wrapped coins as change reserve from the storage case and stores them in the wrapped coin storage device 130. The storage of coins and media is performed, for example, manually.

[0080] When the cassette 300 is attached to the cassette attachment section 113 of the banknote processing device 110 of the change machine 100, the reader / writer 114 reads the information stored in the memory section 320 of this cassette 300. As a result, information related to the banknotes and coins stored in the cassette 300 as change reserves dispensed from the banknote processing device 210 and the coin processing device 220 (for example, the number of banknotes and coins of each denomination) is stored in the memory section 160 of the change machine 100 and managed by the control section 140.

[0081] <Use of cassette 300 as a storage unit> Next, a method for using the cassette 300 configured for storage will be described. Except when the cassette 300 is used for receiving and transferring currency through the above-described collection process and replenishment process, the cassette 300 configured for storage can be attached to the cassette attachment units 113, 213 of the change dispenser 100 and the depositing and dispensing machine 200 (currency handling devices 100, 200) and used as a denomination-specific storage unit. When the cassette 300 is used as a denomination-specific storage unit, the cassette 300 stores banknotes of the denomination assigned to the cassette 300 as a denomination-specific storage unit, out of the currency accepted through the deposit ports of the currency handling devices 100, 200.

[0082] Furthermore, currency handling devices 100, 200 equipped with cassette 300 configured for storage can dispense banknotes stored in cassette 300 from a dispensing port of the device itself. Here, the dispensing port is a port for dispensing currency to be paid to a user. It may also be a port for returning currency when a deposit is rejected. Although not explicitly shown in Figures 2 and 4, the dispensing port is usually positioned so that it faces the user when the user operates the currency handling device 100, 200.

[0083] When a delivery cassette 300 is attached to the currency handling device 100, 200, the banknotes stored in the cassette 300 move only between the cassette 300 and the storage and feeding unit 111, 211. Therefore, the operation of storing the currency (of the denomination assigned to the cassette 300) received from the deposit port into the cassette 300 and the operation of feeding the banknotes stored in the cassette 300 from the withdrawal port are operations that can only be performed when the cassette 300 attached to the cassette attachment unit 113, 213 is set for storage.

[0084] When cassette 300 is used as a denomination-specific storage unit, the denominations stored in cassette 300 are not particularly limited, and cassette 300 may be used as a storage unit for any denomination. As an example, cassette 300 may be used as a storage unit for 10,000 yen bills. Here, denomination-specific storage units (e.g., storage and feeding units 111, 211) provided in currency handling devices 100, 200 are often assigned to denominations other than 10,000 yen bills. This is because 10,000 yen bills are not typically dispensed from currency handling devices 100, 200 as change, etc. However, when dispensing 10,000 yen bills for purposes such as small withdrawals, a storage unit for 10,000 yen bills can improve convenience. Therefore, it is conceivable to use cassette 300 configured for storage as a storage unit for 10,000 yen bills. In this case, for example, the control units 140, 240 of the currency processing devices 100, 200 may automatically set the cassette 300 attached to the cassette attachment unit 113, 213 as a denomination-specific storage unit for 10,000 yen bills when the cassette 300 attached to the cassette attachment unit 113, 213 is set for storage.

[0085] In addition to being used as a storage unit for any denomination (banknotes), cassette 300 may also be used as a storage unit for gift certificates. When cassette 300 is used as a storage unit for gift certificates, it does not store banknotes and is used exclusively for depositing gift certificates received through the deposit slot. However, it is possible to pay out gift certificates to the withdrawal slot in order to collect the stored gift certificates.

[0086] When a cassette 300 is attached to the cassette attachment unit 113, 213, the control unit 140, 240 of the currency handling device 100, 200 reads information from the memory unit 320 of the cassette 300 using the reader / writer 114, 214. This information includes the identification information of the cassette 300, as well as use setting information indicating the set use if a use has been set for the cassette 300. Based on the read use setting information, the control unit 140, 240 permits the operation of dispensing banknotes stored in the cassette 300 from the dispensing slot if the cassette 300 is set for storage. On the other hand, if the cassette 300 is set for delivery, the control unit 140, 240 prohibits the operation of dispensing banknotes stored in the cassette 300 from the dispensing slot.

[0087] When a purpose has not been set for the cassette 300 mounted in the cassette mounting portion 113, 213, the control portion 140, 240 causes the purpose setting portion 141, 241 to perform processing for setting the purpose of the cassette 300 (hereinafter referred to as "purpose setting processing"). When a purpose has not been set for the cassette 300, purpose setting information is not stored in the storage portion 320 of the cassette 300. In this case, the control portion 140, 240 first notifies the user that a purpose has not been set for the cassette 300. This notification is performed, for example, by displaying a message indicating that a purpose has not been set for the cassette 300 on the operation and display portion 150, 250. Then, the control portion 140, 240 causes a setting screen for setting the purpose of the cassette 300 to be displayed on the operation and display portion 150, 250, and accepts a purpose setting operation by the user. When the user performs a use setting operation, the control units 140 and 240 write the use setting information of the received use into the storage unit 320 of the cassette 300.

[0088] Furthermore, when a cassette 300 set for storage is removed from the cassette mounting unit 113, 213, the control unit 140, 240 writes information relating to the state of the cassette 300 (hereinafter referred to as "state information") to the memory unit 320. The state information includes, for example, information such as the number (value) of banknotes stored in the cassette 300 when the cassette 300 is removed, and the date and time when the operation to remove the cassette 300 is performed.

[0089] When a cassette 300 set for storage is mounted in the cassette mounting section 113, 213, the control section 140, 240 acquires information about the state of the cassette 300 at the time of mounting. The control section 140, 240 then compares the acquired information about the state with state information read from the storage section 320 of the cassette 300, and makes various determinations regarding the use of the cassette 300. Details of the determinations will be described later.

[0090] <Replacing Cassette 300 at the time of delivery> As mentioned above, in the currency handling devices 100 and 200, the cassette 300 set for storage can be used as a denomination-specific storage unit except when the cassette 300 is used for currency transfer. Therefore, when performing a currency transfer operation, the cassette 300 set for storage that is attached to the cassette attachment unit 113 and 213 must be removed and replaced with the cassette 300 set for transfer.

[0091] Fig. 6 is a sequence diagram showing the procedure for replacing the cassette 300 during delivery. Fig. 6 shows, as an example of a delivery operation, the operation when the depositing / dispensing machine 200 collects sales proceeds from the change dispenser 100. In Fig. 6, the delivery cassette 300 is indicated with the suffix "a" and written as "300a," and the storage cassette 300 is indicated with the suffix "b" and written as "300b." This distinction will also be made in the following description.

[0092] In the initial state, a storage cassette 300b is attached to the cassette attachment section 213 of the depositing / dispensing machine 200. When the process of collecting sales proceeds begins, first, a delivery cassette 300a is attached to the change machine 100, and the sales proceeds are stored in the cassette 300a. Then, the cassette 300a containing the sales proceeds is removed from the change machine 100 and transported to the backyard area A2 (a).

[0093] Meanwhile, in the depositing / dispensing machine 200, status information is recorded in the memory unit 320 of the storage cassette 300b (b). Then, the cassette 300b is removed from the cassette mounting unit 213 (c) and replaced with the delivery cassette 300a in which the sales proceeds are stored (d). The control unit 240 of the depositing / dispensing machine 200 reads out various pieces of information from the memory unit 320 of the newly mounted cassette 300a. Based on the read information, the control unit 240 recognizes that the purpose set for the cassette 300a is delivery, and feeds out the sales proceeds from the cassette 300a and stores them in the storage / feeding unit 211 (e).

[0094] Next, the cassette 300a is removed from the cassette mounting unit 213 of the depositing / dispensing machine 200 (f) and replaced with the storage cassette 300b (g). The cassette 300b mounted at this time is the cassette 300b removed in (c) above. The control unit 240 of the depositing / dispensing machine 200 reads various information from the memory unit 320 of the newly mounted cassette 300b (h). Based on the read information, the control unit 240 recognizes that the purpose set for the cassette 300b is for storage (i). The information read at this time also includes the status information recorded in (b) above. The control unit 240 then acquires information regarding the status of the mounted cassette 300b, compares it with the status information read from the memory unit 320 of the cassette 300b, and determines whether the status has changed (j). Specifically, for example, it is determined whether the number (value) of banknotes stored in the cassette 300b is the same or not. In addition, when cassette 300b is removed in (c) above, the identification information of cassette 300 may be recorded in memory unit 260, and it may be determined whether or not the installed cassette 300b is the same as the cassette removed in (c).

[0095] When the original cassette 300b is attached to the depositing / dispensing machine 200 in the above manner, the attached cassette 300b is again used as a denomination-specific storage unit. The operation described with reference to FIG. 6 is the operation performed when collecting sales proceeds from one change machine 100. If there are multiple change machines 100 in the front area A1, the above operation is performed between each change machine 100. The information acquisition and determination process from the storage cassette 300 performed when replacing the cassette 300 is also performed in the replenishment operation to replenish the change machine 100 with change funds. When the storage cassette 300 is used as a denomination-specific storage unit in the change machine 100, the control unit 140 of the change machine 100 performs the same process when the cassette 300 is attached to the cassette attachment unit 113.

[0096] <Determination of the cassette 300 mounted in the cassette mounting portion 113, 213> The following is a further explanation of the determination made by the control units 140, 240 of the currency handling apparatus 100, 200 when the cassette 300 is attached to the cassette attachment unit 113, 213. The control units 140, 240 use the first determination units 142, 242 to perform various determinations to determine whether the cassette 300 attached to the cassette attachment unit 113, 213 is valid or not.

[0097] As a first judgment scenario, a case where the cassette 300 is replaced in the cassette mounting portion 113, 213 is assumed. Here, the cassette 300 before replacement is referred to as the first cassette 300, and the replaced cassette 300 is referred to as the second cassette 300. The first judgment unit 142, 242 judges whether the first cassette 300 and the second cassette satisfy a predetermined first condition.

[0098] The first condition may be, for example, that the first cassette 300 and the second cassette 300 are not the same, that the use set for the first cassette 300 is not the same as the use for the second cassette 300, etc. If the first condition is satisfied, the first determination unit 142, 242 determines that the newly installed second cassette 300 is valid.

[0099] An example of a determination procedure by the first determination unit 142, 242 is shown below. When a cassette 300 is loaded into the cassette loading unit 113, 213, the control unit 140, 240 reads information about the cassette 300 from the memory unit 320 of the cassette 300 and stores the information in the memory unit 160, 260. The stored information includes identification information and usage setting information about the cassette 300. When the cassette 300 is replaced, the control unit 140, 240 reads information from the memory unit 320 of the newly loaded cassette 300. The first determination unit 142, 242 then compares the read information with the information about the previous cassette 300 stored in the memory unit 160, 260.

[0100] If the cassette 300 before and after replacement satisfy the first condition, the first determination unit 142, 242 determines that the newly installed cassette 300 is authentic. Conversely, if the cassette 300 before and after replacement do not satisfy the first condition, the first determination unit 142, 242 determines that the newly installed second cassette 300 is not authentic. If the control unit 140, 240 determines that the newly installed cassette 300 is not authentic, it performs fraud response processing. Examples of fraud response processing include notifying the user that an unauthorized cassette 300 has been installed, or restricting the execution of currency processing (storage, deposit / withdrawal, etc.) using the cassette 300.

[0101] As a second determination situation, a case where a cassette 300 is replaced in the cassette mounting portion 113, 213 and then another cassette 300 is replaced is assumed. In other words, this is a case where a cassette 300 is replaced again after the first determination situation. Here, the cassette 300 that was first mounted is referred to as the first cassette 300, the cassette 300 that was next mounted is referred to as the second cassette 300, and the cassette 300 that was third mounted is referred to as the third cassette 300. The first determination unit 142, 242 determines whether the first cassette 300 and the third cassette 300 satisfy a predetermined second condition.

[0102] The second condition may be, for example, that the first cassette 300 and the third cassette 300 are the same, and that there is no change in the state of the first cassette 300 and the third cassette 300. The change in state may be, for example, that no opening or closing operation has been performed on the opening / closing section of the cassette 300, and that the storage status of the banknotes stored in the cassette 300 (for example, the number of banknotes) is the same. If the first condition is satisfied, the first determination unit 142, 242 determines that the third cassette 300 that was most recently installed is valid.

[0103] Here, when it is detected that an opening / closing operation has been performed on the opening / closing section of cassette 300, control units 140, 240 of currency handling devices 100, 200 may store related transaction history information in storage units 160, 260. Specifically, control units 140, 240 associate information indicating that an opening / closing operation of the opening / closing section has been performed with information on the transaction history at the time the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing section was detected, and store the information in storage units 160, 260. In this way, it is possible to estimate from the transaction history the user who attached or detached cassette 300 when the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing section was performed.

[0104] In the second determination scene, the first cassette 300 and the third cassette 300 may be limited to storage cassettes 300, and the second cassette 300 may be limited to a delivery cassette 300. In this case, there may be multiple second cassettes 300. That is, consider a case where a storage cassette 300 is installed at a certain point in time, and then is replaced with a delivery cassette 300 one or more times, and then a storage cassette 300 is installed. Then, determination is made with the previously installed storage cassette 300 as the first cassette 300 and the later installed storage cassette as the third cassette 300.

[0105] An example of a determination procedure by the first determination unit 142, 242 is shown below. Similar to the determination in the first determination scene described above, the control unit 140, 240 stores information acquired from the cassette 300 in the storage unit 160, 260. Then, similar to the determination in the first determination scene described above, the first determination unit 142, 242 compares information acquired from the newly installed cassette 300 with the information stored in the storage unit 160, 260. In the determination in the second determination scene, the first determination unit 142, 242 identifies the first cassette 300 and the third cassette 300 after multiple cassette 300 replacements. Then, it determines whether the first cassette 300 and the third cassette 300 satisfy the second condition.

[0106] If the first cassette 300 and the third cassette 300 satisfy the second condition, the first determination unit 142, 242 determines that the third cassette 300 is authentic. Conversely, if the first cassette 300 and the third cassette 300 do not satisfy the second condition, the first determination unit 142, 242 determines that the third cassette 300 is not authentic. If the control unit 140, 240 determines that the third cassette 300 is not authentic, it performs fraud prevention processing. Examples of fraud prevention processing include notifying the user that an unauthorized cassette 300 has been installed, or restricting the execution of currency processing (storage, deposit / withdrawal, etc.) using the cassette 300.

[0107] In the second determination scene described above, the determination may be made based not only on the relationship between the first cassette 300 and the third cassette 300 but also on information related to the operation of attaching or detaching the cassette 300. For example, a condition based on the time when the cassette 300 was attached to or detached from the cassette attachment unit 113, 213 may be added to the second condition. Specifically, when the cassette 300 is removed, the time is recorded in the memory unit 320 of the cassette 300. Then, the first determination unit 142, 242 determines whether the time T1 when the first cassette 300 was removed and the time T2 when the third cassette 300 was attached satisfy a predetermined third condition.

[0108] The third condition may be, for example, that the difference between time T1 and time T2 is not equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, that time T1 and time T2 are not on different dates, etc. For example, if the difference between time T1 and time T2 is not equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the first determination unit 142, 242 determines that the third cassette 300 is authentic. Conversely, if the difference between time T1 and time T2 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the first determination unit 142, 242 determines that the third cassette 300 is not authentic. If the control unit 140, 240 determines that the third cassette 300 is not authentic based on the determination result based on information related to the time of the attachment / detachment operation, the control unit 140, 240 performs fraud response processing.

[0109] Furthermore, a condition based on the user who attached or detached the cassette 300 to or from the cassette mounting unit 113, 213 may be added to the second condition. The control units 140, 240 acquire information for identifying the user who will perform the attachment or detachment operation when attaching or detaching the cassette 300, and store the information in the storage units 160, 260. The information for identifying the user can be obtained, for example, by requesting login using user information (such as an ID) as a condition for permitting the attachment or detachment operation of the cassette 300.

[0110] For example, the first determination unit 142, 242 determines that the third cassette 300 is authentic when the user who removed the first cassette 300 and installed the second cassette 300 is the same as the user who removed the second cassette 300 and installed the third cassette 300. Conversely, when the user who removed the first cassette 300 and installed the second cassette 300 is different from the user who removed the second cassette 300 and installed the third cassette 300, the first determination unit 142, 242 determines that the third cassette 300 is not authentic. When the control unit 140, 240 determines that the third cassette 300 is not authentic based on the determination result based on the user who performed the installation / removal operation, the control unit 140, 240 performs fraud response processing.

[0111] <Determination at power-on> Next, the judgment made when the change machine 100 and depositing / dispensing machine 200 (currency handling devices 100, 200) are powered on will be described. When the currency handling devices 100, 200 are powered on, a judgment different from the judgment made in response to the attachment / detachment of the cassette 300 during normal operation described above is made. When the currency handling devices 100, 200 are powered on, the control devices 140, 240, through the second judgment units 143, 243, make various judgments to determine whether the cassette 300 attached to the cassette attachment unit 113, 213 at the time of power-on is legitimate or not.

[0112] The second determination unit 143, 243 determines whether the cassette 300 that was installed when the power to the currency handling device 100, 200 was cut off is the same as the cassette 300 that was installed when the power was turned on. As with the determination during normal operation, the control unit 140, 240 stores information obtained from the cassette 300 in the memory unit 160, 260. Therefore, when the power is turned off, information about the cassette 300 that is installed in the cassette installation unit 113, 213 at that time is also recorded. Next, when the power is turned on, the control unit 140, 240 obtains information about the cassette 300 from the memory unit 320 of the cassette 300 that is installed in the cassette installation unit 113, 213.

[0113] Then, the second determination unit 143, 243 compares the information acquired after power-on with the information stored in the storage unit 160, 260, and determines whether the cassette 300 when power was cut off is the same as the cassette 300 when power was turned on. If the cassette 300 when power was cut off is the same as the cassette 300 when power was turned on, the second determination unit 143, 243 further determines whether an opening / closing operation was performed on the opening / closing part of the cassette 300 while the power was cut off.

[0114] If the cassette 300 at the time of power-off is the same as the cassette 300 at the time of power-on and no opening or closing operation has been performed on the opening / closing section of the cassette 300, the second determination section 143, 243 determines that the cassette 300 that was installed at the time of power-on is authentic. On the other hand, if the cassette 300 at the time of power-off is not the same as the cassette 300 at the time of power-on, or if an opening or closing operation has been performed on the opening / closing section of the cassette 300 while the power is off, the second determination section 143, 243 determines that the cassette 300 that was installed at the time of power-on is not authentic. If the control section 140, 240 determines that the third cassette 300 is not authentic, it performs fraud response processing.

[0115] Furthermore, if the cassette 300 installed when the power is turned on is not the same cassette 300 installed when the power was turned off, the currency handling device 100, 200 may be prevented from starting up and error processing may be performed as a fraud response process. Examples of error processing include displaying a message on the operation and display unit 150, 250 informing the user that the cassette 300 was replaced while the power was off, or emitting an alarm sound. A manager or a security company may also be notified. Similar error processing may be performed without starting up the currency handling device 100, 200 if the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing unit is performed while the power is off for the cassette 300 installed when the power was turned on.

[0116] Furthermore, if a power outage occurs while a cassette 300 is being replaced for a collection or replenishment process, it is possible that when power is restored to the currency handling devices 100, 200, a different cassette 300 than was installed at the time of the power outage may be present. In such a case, performing error processing without starting up the currency handling devices 100, 200 as described above would likely result in greater inconvenience than safety. Therefore, if a power outage occurs while a collection or replenishment process is being performed, the currency handling devices 100, 200 may be started up normally upon recovery without performing the error processing described above.

[0117] <Modification> In the above embodiment, when switching the use of cassette 300 between storage and delivery, cassette 300 set for storage is swapped with cassette 300 set for delivery. However, depending on the usage situation, a configuration may be adopted in which the use of one cassette 300 is changed while it is attached to currency handling devices 100, 200. As an example, consider the operation of change dispenser 100 during a collection process.

[0118] As described above, in the collection process, in the change dispenser 100, stored banknotes are fed from the storage / feed unit 111 of the banknote processing device 110 and stored in the cassette 300. At this time, if no banknotes are stored in the storage cassette 300 that was attached to the change dispenser 100 before the collection process started, the empty storage cassette 300 is removed and replaced with an empty delivery (collection) cassette 300, which is a wasteful operation. Also, depending on the operation, there is no need to leave any coins inside the change dispenser 100 after the collection process has been performed, so there may be cases where it is required to collect the banknotes remaining in the storage cassette 300 as well. In such cases, convenience can be improved by making it possible to switch the use setting without replacing the cassette 300.

[0119] As a specific procedure, for example, when the collection process is started, the control unit 140 first checks the setting of the purpose of the cassette 300 attached to the cassette attachment unit 113 of the banknote processing device 110. The setting information of the purpose of the cassette 300 can be obtained, for example, by reading it from the memory unit 320 provided in the cassette 300. If the purpose of the attached cassette 300 is set to storage, the control unit 140 inquires of the user whether to replace it with a cassette 300 for delivery (collection) or to change the setting of the purpose of the cassette 300. The inquiry to the user is made, for example, by displaying a message on the operation display unit 150. If the setting change is selected, the control unit 140 changes the setting of the purpose of the cassette 300 attached to the cassette attachment unit 113 to delivery (collection) by means of the purpose setting unit 141. Then, the control unit 140 feeds banknotes from the storage and feeding unit 111 and stores them in the cassette 300 whose setting of the purpose has been changed.

[0120] In this way, the collection process is performed without replacing the cassette 300, and the setting of the purpose of the cassette 300 is changed. Note that, if no banknotes are stored in the storage cassette 300 attached to the cassette attachment unit 113 when the collection process is started, the control unit 140 may automatically change the setting of the purpose of the cassette 300 without inquiring of the user. In this case, a message to the effect that the setting of the purpose of the cassette 300 will be changed may be displayed on the operation display unit 150 to notify the user. Furthermore, if banknotes are stored in the storage cassette 300 attached to the cassette attachment unit 113 when the collection process is started, the control unit 140 may notify the user that the banknotes stored in the cassette 300 will also be collected by the collection process. Then, after making such a notification, the control unit 140 may inquire as to whether or not to replace the cassette 300.

[0121] Furthermore, the control unit 140 may be configured to permit the attachment and detachment of the cassette 300 depending on the setting of the use of the cassette 300. The control unit 140 may be configured to release a locking mechanism provided in the cassette mounting unit 113 for preventing the attachment and detachment of the cassette 300 depending on whether the use of the cassette 300 is set for storage or for recovery. Specifically, when the cassette 300 is set for storage, the control unit 140 may not release the locking mechanism of the cassette mounting unit 113, and when the cassette 300 is set for recovery, the control unit 140 may be configured to release the locking mechanism.

[0122] In the above example, a mode has been described in which the collection process is performed for the change dispenser 100, and the sales proceeds are collected by changing the usage setting without replacing the cassette 300. However, the application of the above modified example is not limited to the above mode. The modified example may also be applied to operations when replenishing the change fund in the change dispenser 100, and operations when depositing or dispensing banknotes into or from the depositing / dispensing machine 200 using the cassette 300, as long as the change setting can be changed.

[0123] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. For example, in the above embodiments, the change dispenser 100 and the depositing / dispensing machine 200 are configured as integrated devices. However, some of the functions of the devices 100, 200 may be replaced by external devices connected to the devices 100, 200. For example, some of the functions of the operation / display unit 150, memory unit 160, printer unit 180, and control unit 140 in the change dispenser 100 may be replaced by an information processing device such as a POS register 400 or a tablet terminal. Similarly, some of the functions of the operation / display unit 250, memory unit 260, and control unit 240 in the depositing / dispensing machine 200 may be replaced by an information processing device such as a tablet terminal.

[0124] In the above embodiment, various types of information related to the cassette 300 are stored in the memory unit 320. In contrast, information that is expected to remain constant, such as use setting information and identification information when the use is not changed, may be recorded by, for example, attaching a sticker displaying a code image to the housing 310. Furthermore, some or all of the various types of information stored in the memory unit 320 of the cassette 300 may be stored in the memory units 160 and 260 of the currency handling devices 100 and 200. In this case, the change dispenser 100 and the depositing and dispensing machine 200 that use the same cassette 300 to receive and transfer (collect and replenish) currency may share information about the cassette 300 via the communication interface units 170 and 270 and a network. Various other modifications and alternative configurations that do not depart from the scope of the technical concept of the present invention are encompassed by the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 10...currency processing system, 100...change dispenser (currency processing device), 110...banknote processing device, 111...storage and feeding section, 112...banknote processing section, 113...cassette mounting section, 114...reader / writer, 120...coin processing device, 121...storage and feeding section, 122...coin processing section, 130...wrapped coin storage device, 131...locking mechanism, 140...control section, 141...application setting section, 142...first determination section, 143...second determination section, 150...operation display section, 160...storage section, 170...communication interface section, 180...printing section, 200...depositing / dispensing machine (currency processing device ), 210...banknote processing device, 211...storing and feeding section, 212...banknote processing section, 213...cassette mounting section, 214...reader / writer, 220...coin processing device, 221...storing and feeding section, 222...coin processing section, 230...wrapped coin storage device, 231...locking mechanism, 240...control section, 241...application setting section, 242...first determination section, 243...second determination section, 250...operation and display section, 260...storage section, 270...communication interface section, 280...printing section, 300...cassette, 310...cassette, 320...storage section, 330...opening, 400...POS register

Claims

1. In a currency processing device that transports and processes currency, a denomination-specific storage unit that stores and dispenses coins by denomination; a cassette mounting section in which a cassette for storing and dispensing currency is detachably mounted to the device body; a setting unit for setting a use of the cassette attached to the cassette attachment unit; Equipped with The setting unit can set at least a use for storing bills by denomination as a use of the cassette, The cassette is configured to store coins by denomination, and the coins stored in the cassette can be fed to the dispensing port. Currency processing equipment.

2. The currency processing device according to claim 1 , further comprising an acquisition unit that acquires cassette information of the cassette attached to the cassette attachment unit.

3. a first determination unit that determines whether the cassette mounted in the cassette mounting unit satisfies a first condition; The acquisition unit When the cassette is removed and another cassette is installed in the cassette installation section, the cassette information of the newly installed cassette is acquired; the first determination unit determines whether the newly installed cassette satisfies the first condition based on cassette information of the newly installed cassette and cassette information of a cassette previously installed in the cassette installation unit; The currency processing device according to claim 2.

4. The setting unit can set the use of the cassette to a use for transferring currency between the device itself and another currency processing device, the first determination unit, when a second cassette set for the transfer is attached after a first cassette set for the denomination-specific storage is removed, determines whether the second cassette is a cassette different from the first cassette; The currency processing device according to claim 3.

5. The currency processing device described in claim 4, wherein the first judgment unit determines whether the second condition is satisfied with respect to the first to third cassettes when, after the second cassette is installed and then the second cassette is removed and a third cassette configured for storing currency by denomination is installed.

6. The currency processing device according to claim 5 , wherein the first determination unit determines whether the third cassette and the first cassette are the same cassette.

7. The cassette is provided with an openable / closable opening / closing part for accessing a space for storing currency, the first determination unit, when the first cassette and the third cassette are the same cassette, determines whether the opening / closing unit has been opened while the third cassette is being removed from the cassette mounting unit; The currency processing device according to claim 6.

8. A currency processing device as described in claim 6, wherein the first judgment unit, when the first cassette and the third cassette are the same cassette, determines whether the currency storage status when the first cassette is removed is the same as the currency storage status when the third cassette is installed.

9. The currency processing device according to claim 5, wherein the first determination unit determines whether the time when the second cassette is installed and the time when the third cassette is installed satisfy a third condition.

10. The currency processing device described in claim 5, wherein the first judgment unit determines whether the user who removed the first cassette and installed the second cassette and the user who removed the second cassette and installed the third cassette are the same user.

11. A currency processing device as described in any one of claims 3 to 10, which limits the execution of currency processing using the newly installed cassette depending on the judgment result of the first judgment unit for the newly installed cassette.

12. A currency processing device as described in any one of claims 3 to 10, further comprising an alarm unit that notifies a user of information regarding the judgment result based on the judgment result of the first judgment unit for the newly installed cassette.

13. A currency processing device as described in claim 1, wherein the setting unit is capable of changing the setting of the cassette's use from storage by denomination to transfer including at least one of deposit processing and withdrawal processing when the cassette is attached to the cassette attachment unit.

14. The currency processing device according to claim 13, further comprising an alarm unit that notifies a user if currency is stored in the cassette when the use setting of the cassette is changed from storage by denomination to transfer.

15. The currency processing device according to claim 13 , wherein the cassette mounting unit makes the cassette removable when the cassette is set for the transfer by the setting unit.

16. a second determination unit that determines, when the power supply of the device body is turned on, whether or not the cassette that is attached to the cassette attachment unit is the same as the cassette that was attached to the cassette attachment unit when the power supply of the device body was turned off; The currency processing device according to claim 1 , wherein when the second determination unit determines that the cassette is not the same, the execution of currency processing using the cassette is restricted.

17. The cassette is provided with an openable / closable opening / closing part for accessing a space for storing currency, When the second determination unit determines that the cassettes are the same, the second determination unit further determines whether the opening / closing unit of the cassette was opened while the cassette was powered off; A currency processing device as described in claim 16, which restricts the execution of currency processing using the cassette when the second judgment unit determines that the opening / closing unit of the cassette has been opened.

18. In a currency handling system including a currency handling device that transports and processes currency, The currency processing device includes: a denomination-specific storage unit that stores and dispenses coins by denomination; a cassette mounting section in which a cassette for storing and dispensing currency is detachably mounted to the device body; an acquisition unit that acquires setting information for setting a use of the cassette attached to the cassette attachment unit from an external device; Equipped with The currency processing device can at least set the use of the cassette as a use for storing denominations based on the setting information, The cassette is configured to store coins by denomination, and the coins stored in the cassette can be fed to the dispensing port. Currency processing system.

19. A cassette that is detachably mounted to a cassette mounting unit of a currency processing device that transports and processes currency, a storage section for storing currency; a use identification unit for identifying the use of the cassette set in the currency processing device; Equipped with When the use for storing coins by denomination is set, the coins to be dispensed from the dispensing port of the currency handling device can be fed out from the storage unit. cassette.

20. The cassette according to claim 19, wherein the use identification unit is a recording unit for identification information capable of identifying the use of the cassette set in the currency processing device.

Images