Automated trading device and magnetic head inspection method

Abstract

This enables automated testing of magnetic head reading performance with a simplified configuration, leading to miniaturization of automated trading equipment and reduction of manufacturing costs. [Solution] The automated trading device comprises a transport path for transporting a trading medium having a first magnetic stripe, a first magnetic head provided on the transport path for reading information on the first magnetic stripe of the trading medium being transported along the transport path, and a head inspection unit for inspecting the reading performance of the first magnetic head. The head inspection unit comprises an annular belt having an outer surface that moves in contact with the first magnetic head, a drive mechanism for driving the belt, and a first inspection magnetic stripe provided on the outer surface of the belt along the circumferential direction of the belt for inspecting the first magnetic head.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an automatic transaction device and a magnetic head inspection method.

Background Art

[0002] In automatic transaction devices such as cash deposit and payment machines and cash dispensers, when performing various transactions, it is known to read the information on the magnetic stripe provided on a transaction card or a passbook as a transaction medium using a magnetic head. In this type of automatic transaction device, the reading performance of the magnetic head deteriorates due to wear and dirt on the reading surface of the magnetic head.

[0003] For example, when inspecting the reading state of a magnetic head for reading the magnetic stripe of a transaction card, a maintenance worker performs the inspection using an inspection card having a normal magnetic stripe. Also, during a transaction in an automatic transaction device, when a reading error of the magnetic stripe of the transaction medium occurs, it is difficult to determine whether it is due to a magnetic defect of the magnetic stripe of the transaction medium or an abnormality of the magnetic head.

[0004] As a related-art automatic transaction device, there is one equipped with a reference card storage unit in which a reference magnetic card having a normal magnetic stripe is stored, and the reading performance of the magnetic head is automatically checked by taking out the reference magnetic card from the reference card storage unit onto a transport path and reproducing it in a recording / playback unit (Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] The aforementioned Patent Document 1 has a complex configuration that includes a mechanism for removing the reference magnetic card from the reference card storage unit. This leads to an increase in the size of the automated trading device, resulting in increased manufacturing costs.

[0007] The disclosed technology was developed in view of the above, and aims to provide an automated trading device and a magnetic head inspection method that enable the automatic inspection of the reading performance of a magnetic head with a simple configuration, thereby enabling miniaturization of the automated trading device and reduction of manufacturing costs. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] One embodiment of an automated trading device disclosed in this application includes a transport path for transporting a trading medium having a first magnetic stripe, a first magnetic head provided on the transport path for reading information on the first magnetic stripe of the trading medium being transported along the transport path, and a head inspection unit for inspecting the reading performance of the first magnetic head. The head inspection unit includes an annular belt having an outer peripheral surface that moves in contact with the first magnetic head, a drive mechanism for driving the belt, and a first inspection magnetic stripe provided along the circumferential direction of the outer peripheral surface of the belt for inspecting the first magnetic head. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to one embodiment of the automated trading device disclosed in this application, it is possible to automatically perform inspections of the reading performance of the magnetic head with a simple configuration, thereby enabling miniaturization of the automated trading device and reduction of manufacturing costs. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the automated trading device of Example 1. [Figure 2A] Figure 2A is a plan view showing the card reading section of the automated trading device of Example 1. [Figure 2B] Figure 2B is a cross-sectional view showing the card reading section of the automated trading device of Example 1. [Figure 3]Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a belt having the first inspection magnetic stripe in Example 1. [Figure 4A] Figure 4A is a plan view showing the state in which a card is read in Example 1. [Figure 4B] Figure 4B is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the state in which a card is read in Example 1. [Figure 5A] Figure 5A is a plan view showing the state in which the card is ejected in Example 1. [Figure 5B] Figure 5B is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the state in which the card is ejected in Example 1. [Figure 6A] Figure 6A is a plan view showing the state in which the first magnetic head is being inspected in Example 1. [Figure 6B] Figure 6B is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the state in which the first magnetic head is being inspected in Example 1. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the inspection process of the first magnetic head in Example 1. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows the screen display in the case of a card reading error in Example 1. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows the screen display in the case of a malfunction in the first magnetic head in Example 1. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating the periodic inspection process of the first magnetic head in Example 1. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the belt in Example 1. [Figure 12A] Figure 12A is a plan view showing the card reading section of the automated trading device of Example 2. [Figure 12B] Figure 12B is a cross-sectional view along the Y direction showing the card reading section of the automated trading device of Embodiment 2. [Figure 12C] Figure 12C is a cross-sectional view along the X direction showing the card reader section of the automated trading device of Embodiment 2. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a plan view showing the state in which the card is read in Example 2. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a plan view showing a state in which the card is retracted from the first magnetic head and the second magnetic head in Example 2. [Figure 15A] FIG. 15A is a plan view showing a state in which the first magnetic head and the second magnetic head are inspected in Example 2. [Figure 15B] FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the first magnetic head and the second magnetic head are inspected in Example 2. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a plan view showing a card reading unit of the automatic transaction device of Example 3. [Figure 17A] FIG. 17A is a plan view showing a state in which a card is read in Example 3. [Figure 17B] FIG. 17B is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a card is read in Example 3.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the automatic transaction device and the method for inspecting a magnetic head disclosed in the present application will be described in detail based on the drawings. Note that the automatic transaction device and the magnetic head inspection method disclosed in the present application are not limited by the following embodiments.

Embodiment

[0012] <Automatic Transaction Device> Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the automated transaction device of Embodiment 1. As shown in Figure 1, the automated transaction device 1 is an automated cash deposit and withdrawal machine and includes a card entry / exit 5 into which a cash card (hereinafter referred to as "card") is inserted and ejected, and a passbook entry / exit 6 into which a savings passbook (hereinafter referred to as "passbook") is inserted and ejected. The automated transaction device 1 also includes a banknote entry / extraction section 7 for depositing and withdrawing banknotes, a coin entry / extraction section 8 for depositing and withdrawing coins, a display operation panel 9 for performing various transaction operations, a telephone 10 for communicating with an employee, and a control unit 11 for controlling the automated transaction device 1. In the drawing, the width direction (left-right direction) of the automated transaction device 1 is indicated as the X direction, the depth direction (front-back direction) of the automated transaction device 1 is indicated as the Y direction, and the height direction (up-down direction) of the automated transaction device 1 is indicated as the Z direction.

[0013] <Transaction media> The transaction medium in this disclosure is, for example, a card or a passbook, and has a magnetic stripe on which customer information, etc., is recorded. In Example 1, a card is used as an example of a transaction medium, but it may also be applied to a passbook. In the case of a card, there are those with a magnetic stripe on the back side that conforms to the international standard (JIS1), those with a magnetic stripe on the front side that conforms to the domestic standard (JIS2), and those with magnetic stripes on both the front and back sides.

[0014] The card 3 used in Example 1 has a first magnetic stripe 13 only on the back side 3a (see Figures 2A and 2B). The card 3 is inserted into the card slot 5 of the automated transaction device 1 with the front side 3b facing upwards. The automated transaction device of this disclosure is not limited to ATMs (Automatic Teller Machines) and CDs (Cash Dispensers), but may also be applied to, for example, automated payment machines in accommodation facilities. In this case, the transaction medium may be a room key card with a magnetic stripe on which guest information is recorded, or a credit card with a magnetic stripe on which user information is recorded.

[0015] <Card reader> Figure 2A is a plan view showing the card reading section of the automated trading device 1 of Embodiment 1. Figure 2B is a cross-sectional view showing the card reading section of the automated trading device 1 of Embodiment 1.

[0016] As shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the automated trading device 1 is equipped with a card reader 12 that reads information from a card inserted through a card entry / exit 5, and the card reader 12 is controlled by a control unit 11. The card reader 12 includes a transport path 16 for transporting a card 3 having a first magnetic stripe 13, a first magnetic head 17 provided on the transport path 16 for reading information from the first magnetic stripe 13 of the card 3 as it is sent along the transport path 16 in the Y direction, and a head inspection unit 20 for inspecting the reading performance of the first magnetic head 17. Although the automated trading device 1 of Embodiment 1 does not have a second magnetic head, for the sake of explaining other embodiments, it will be referred to here as the first magnetic head 17.

[0017] Multiple transport rollers 16a are arranged in the transport path 16 at intervals in the transport direction of the card 3 (Y direction), and also at intervals in the X direction perpendicular to the transport direction of the card 3 (Y direction). In addition, transport rollers 16a are arranged opposite each other on the upper and lower sides of the transport path 16 in the Z direction, and the card 3 is transported while sandwiched between each transport roller 16a. Although not shown, upper and lower guide plates are provided on the upper and lower sides of the transport path 16 to guide the transport of the card 3.

[0018] The first magnetic head 17 is fixed to the underside of the transport path 16 and is positioned with its reading surface 17a facing upward on the path through which the first magnetic stripe 13 of the card 3 being transported from the card entry / exit 5 moves. The head inspection unit 20 is positioned above the transport path 16, along the path through which the first magnetic stripe 13 of the transported card 3 moves.

[0019] In Example 1, the configuration is described as being applied to a card reader 12 that reads information on card 3, but it may also be applied to a passbook reader (not shown) that reads information on the magnetic stripe of a passbook. Furthermore, the magnetic head in this disclosure refers to at least a magnetic head that reads information, but includes magnetic heads that both read and write information. In addition, the magnetic head in this disclosure is not limited to a structure fixed to the transport path, and may move relative to the transaction medium when reading information on the first magnetic stripe of the transaction medium.

[0020] <Head Inspection Department> The head inspection unit 20 includes an annular belt 22 having an outer peripheral surface 22a that moves in contact with the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17, a drive mechanism 23 for driving the belt 22, a contact mechanism 24 for bringing the outer peripheral surface 22a of the belt 22 into contact with the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17, and a first inspection magnetic stripe 26 provided along the circumferential direction of the outer peripheral surface 22a of the belt 22 for inspecting the first magnetic head 17. The head inspection unit 20 is controlled by a control unit 11 (see Figure 1).

[0021] The belt 22 is positioned along the transport direction (Y direction) of the transport path 16, and a strip-shaped first inspection magnetic stripe 26 is formed on a portion of the outer peripheral surface 22a in the circumferential direction (length direction of the belt 22). In the Z direction perpendicular to the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17, the belt 22 is positioned such that the outer peripheral surface 22a of the belt 22 leaves a gap with respect to the reading surface 17a, allowing the card 3 to be smoothly fed in the transport direction (Y direction). Therefore, when the card 3 is transported along the transport path 16, the outer peripheral surface 22a of the belt 22 is configured not to come into contact with the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17.

[0022] The drive mechanism 23 of the head inspection unit 20 includes a pair of drive rollers 23a that drive the belt 22 along the transport direction (Y direction) of the transport path 16, and a motor (not shown) that rotates one of the drive rollers 23a. The drive mechanism 23 is controlled by the control unit 11. The belt 22 is stretched over the pair of drive rollers 23a and moves along the transport direction (Y direction) relative to the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17.

[0023] In this way, the head inspection unit 20 can be simply constructed by moving a belt 22 on which the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 is provided relative to the first magnetic head 17. This makes it possible to automatically inspect the reading performance of the first magnetic head 17 with a simple configuration, thereby enabling miniaturization of the automated trading device 1 and reducing manufacturing costs. Furthermore, by providing the first inspection magnetic stripe 26, the automated trading device 1 avoids transporting an inspection card (not shown) having the inspection magnetic stripe along the transport path 16, thus shortening the time required to inspect the first magnetic head 17 and avoiding transport abnormalities of the inspection card along the transport path 16.

[0024] The contact mechanism 24 of the head inspection unit 20 includes a pressing table 29 provided on the inner circumference side of the belt 22 that presses the belt 22 against the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17, and a lifting mechanism (not shown) that moves the pressing table 29 up and down in the Z direction perpendicular to the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17.

[0025] The width of the pressing platform 29 in the X direction is larger than the width of the belt 22, allowing the entire width of the belt 22 to be properly contacted with the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17. The pressing platform 29 is raised and lowered in the Z direction (Z direction) by the contact mechanism 24 on the inner circumference side of the belt 22, thereby bringing the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 provided on the outer circumferential surface 22a of the belt 22 into contact with the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17. This increases the reliability of the first magnetic head 17 when reading the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 of the belt 22. At this time, the first magnetic head 17 may be pressed against the first inspection magnetic stripe 26.

[0026] In this way, the contact mechanism 24 raises and lowers the pressing platform 29, causing the outer surface 22a of the belt 22 to move between a retracted position, where it is moved away from the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17 in the Z direction, and a contact position, where it is in contact with the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17. When the outer surface 22a of the belt 22 moves to the contact position, the first magnetic head 17 becomes able to read the information of the first inspection magnetic stripe 26. After inspecting the first magnetic head 17, the head inspection unit 20 returns the belt 22 from the contact position to the retracted position.

[0027] Therefore, by having a contact mechanism 24 in the head inspection unit 20, when the first magnetic head 17 reads the card 3, the belt 22 is separated from the first magnetic head 17 to ensure the transportability of the card 3 as it is transported along the outer peripheral surface 22a of the belt 22, and when the first magnetic head 17 reads the first inspection magnetic stripe 26, the belt 22 is brought into contact with the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17. This improves both the transportability of the card 3 and the reliability of reading the first inspection magnetic stripe 26.

[0028] In the first embodiment, the contact mechanism 23 was configured to raise and lower the pressing platform 29 in the Z direction relative to the first magnetic head 17. However, the mechanism is not limited to this configuration, and the belt 22 and the pressing platform 29 may be configured to raise and lower both in the Z direction.

[0029] <Coating material> Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a belt 22 having a first inspection magnetic stripe 26 in Example 1. As shown in Figure 3, the belt 22 is provided with a covering material 31 that covers the first inspection magnetic stripe 26. The covering material 31 is formed of a resin film such as Mylar® with a thickness of several μm, for example, and is adhered to the surface of the first inspection magnetic stripe 26.

[0030] As a result, the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 is protected by the covering material 31, thereby reducing wear on the first inspection magnetic stripe 26, increasing its durability, and ensuring the inspection accuracy of the reading performance of the first magnetic head 17. Furthermore, by providing the covering material 31 on the first inspection magnetic stripe 26, it becomes possible to maintain a constant distance between the reading surface 17a and the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 in the direction perpendicular to the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17 (Z direction), thereby improving the inspection accuracy of the first magnetic head 17.

[0031] In the head inspection unit 20 of Embodiment 1, the belt 22 is configured to move along the transport direction of the card 3, but this does not limit the direction of movement of the belt 22. Although not shown, if this disclosure is applied to a passbook in which a first magnetic stripe is provided along the Y direction perpendicular to the transport direction (X direction), the belt 22 may be configured to move along the X direction perpendicular to the transport direction (Y direction), or the first magnetic head 17 may be configured to move relative to the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 of the belt 22 to read it.

[0032] <Operation of the head inspection unit> The operation of the head inspection unit 20 configured as described above will now be explained. Figure 4A is a plan view showing the state in which card 3 is read in Embodiment 1. Figure 4B is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the state in which card 3 is read in Embodiment 1.

[0033] As shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the card 3 inserted from the card entry / exit 5 is transported along the transport direction (Y direction) of the transport path 16 and is sent to the position of the first magnetic head 17, as shown in Figures 4A and 4B. Once the card 3 is sent to the position of the first magnetic head 17, it is moved relative to the first magnetic head 17, and the information on the first magnetic stripe 13 is read by the first magnetic head 17.

[0034] If the first magnetic head 17 is unable to properly read the information on the first magnetic stripe 13 of card 3, card 3 may be ejected from the card entry / exit 5, for example, in order to inspect the first magnetic head 17, as shown in Figures 5A and 5B. Alternatively, instead of being ejected from the card entry / exit 5, card 3 may be transported along the transport path 16, passing through the first magnetic head 17, and retracted into a holding position (not shown) inside the automated transaction device 1.

[0035] Next, as shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the head inspection unit 20 drives the belt 22 with the drive mechanism 23 to move one end of the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 to the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17, and simultaneously lowers the pressing table 29 with the contact mechanism 24 to bring the outer surface 22a of the belt 22 into contact with the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17. Subsequently, the head inspection unit 20 moves the belt 22 with the drive mechanism 23 so that one end of the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 is moved to the position of the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17, and the reading performance of the first magnetic head 17 is inspected as the first magnetic head 17 reads the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 while the belt 22 is moved.

[0036] <Inspection process for magnetic heads> Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the inspection process of the first magnetic head 17 in Example 1. Figure 8 is a diagram showing the screen display in the case of a card reading error in Example 1. Figure 9 is a diagram showing the screen display in the case of an abnormality in the first magnetic head 17 in Example 1. Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating the periodic inspection process of the first magnetic head 17 in Example 1.

[0037] As shown in Figure 7, in the automated trading device 1, card 3 is inserted from the card entry / exit 5 (step S1), and the first magnetic head 17 reads the first magnetic stripe 13 of card 3 (step S2). The control unit 11 of the automated trading device 1 determines whether the reading of card 3 was successful or not based on the reading result of the first magnetic stripe 13 (step S3). If the reading of card 3 is successful in step S3 (Yes), the automated trading device 1 writes information to the first magnetic stripe 13 as necessary (step S4), and transports card 3 to the card entry / exit 5 to return it to the user (step S5).

[0038] In step S3, if the reading of card 3 is abnormal (No), the automated trading device 1 moves card 3 to a holding position inside the automated trading device 1 as a reading error (step S6). Subsequently, the automated trading device 1 activates the head inspection unit 20 (step S7), and the first magnetic head 17 reads the first inspection magnetic stripe 26. The control unit 11 of the automated trading device 1 determines whether the reading of the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 was normal or not based on the reading result of the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 (step S8).

[0039] In step S8, if the reading of the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 is successful (Yes), the automated transaction device 1 transports card 3 from the holding position to the card entry / exit 5 and returns it to the user, indicating a magnetic defect in the first magnetic stripe 13 of card 3 (step S9). At this time, as shown in Figure 8, the automated transaction device 1 displays a guidance message on the display operation panel 9, including a message that the magnetic data of card 3 cannot be read and a message prompting the user to reissue card 3 (step S10 in Figure 7), informing the user that card 3 has a magnetic defect and ending the inspection process.

[0040] In step S8 of Figure 7, if the reading of the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 is abnormal (No), the automated trading device 1 transports the card 3 from the holding position to the card entry / exit 5 and returns it to the user (step S11), indicating a reading error of the first magnetic head 17. At this time, as shown in Figure 9, the automated trading device 1 displays a screen message on the display operation panel 9 that indicates that the automated trading device 1 cannot handle the transaction (step S12 of Figure 7), informing the user that the automated trading device 1 is malfunctioning. Subsequently, the automated trading device 1 sends a notification to an employee requesting maintenance of the first magnetic head 17, etc. (step S13), and terminates the inspection process.

[0041] <Regular inspection process> Furthermore, when the automated trading device 1 is not conducting transactions with users, the control unit 11 controls the device to automatically activate the head inspection unit 20 periodically at a set time, for example, about once a day, to inspect the reading performance of the first magnetic head 17. As shown in Figure 10, the control unit 11 of the automated trading device 1 activates the head inspection unit 20 at a set time (step S14), and the first magnetic head 17 reads the first inspection magnetic stripe 26. Based on the reading result of the first inspection magnetic stripe 26, the control unit 11 of the automated trading device 1 determines whether the reading of the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 is normal or not (step S15).

[0042] In step S15, if the reading of the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 is normal (Yes), the automated trading device 1 considers the inspection result to be normal (step S16) and terminates the inspection process. In step S15, if the reading of the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 is abnormal (No), the automated trading device 1 sends a notification to an employee requesting maintenance of the first magnetic head 17, etc., as a reading error of the first magnetic head 17 (step S17), and terminates the inspection process. By performing periodic inspections automatically in this way, the automated trading device 1 can prevent users' transactions from being interrupted due to abnormalities of the first magnetic head 17, such as reading errors.

[0043] <Magnetic Head Inspection Method> In the magnetic head inspection method using the automated trading device 1 configured as described above, the drive mechanism 23 drives the belt 22 toward the first magnetic head 17, causing the first magnetic head 17 to read the first inspection magnetic stripe 26. This makes it possible to automatically inspect the reading performance of the first magnetic head 17 with a simple configuration, thereby enabling miniaturization of the automated trading device 1 and reduction of manufacturing costs.

[0044] <Effects of Example 1> As described above, the automated trading device 1 of Embodiment 1 includes a head inspection unit 20 for inspecting the reading performance of a first magnetic head 17 that reads information from the first magnetic stripe 13 of a card 3. The head inspection unit 20 includes an annular belt 22 having an outer peripheral surface 20a that moves in contact with the first magnetic head 17, a drive mechanism 23 for driving the belt 22, and a first inspection magnetic stripe 26 provided along the circumferential direction of the outer peripheral surface 22a of the belt 22 for inspecting the first magnetic head 17. This allows the head inspection unit 20 to be configured simply, making it possible to automatically inspect the reading performance of the first magnetic head 17 with a simple configuration, thereby enabling miniaturization of the automated trading device 1 and reducing manufacturing costs.

[0045] Furthermore, the head inspection unit 20 in the automated trading device 1 of Embodiment 1 has a pressing table 29 provided on the inner circumference side of the belt 22 that presses the belt 22 against the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17. This improves the reliability of the first magnetic head 17 reading the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 of the belt 22.

[0046] Furthermore, the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 of the head inspection unit 20 in the automated trading device 1 of Embodiment 1 includes a high-strength magnetic stripe 26H and a low-strength magnetic stripe 27L, and the high-strength magnetic stripe 26H and the low-strength magnetic stripe 26L are provided at different positions in the circumferential direction of the belt 22. This allows the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 to be read by the first magnetic head 17 to be easily switched between the high-strength magnetic stripe 26H and the low-strength magnetic stripe 26L depending on the feed amount of the belt 22. In addition, the deterioration state of the reading performance of the first magnetic head 17 can be detected based on the reading state of the high-strength magnetic stripe 26H and the low-strength magnetic stripe 26L.

[0047] Furthermore, the head inspection unit 20 in the automated trading device 1 of Embodiment 1 has a contact mechanism 24 that brings the outer peripheral surface 22a of the belt 22 into contact with the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17. This makes it possible to configure the system so that when the first magnetic head 17 reads a card 3, the belt 22 is separated from the first magnetic head 17, thereby ensuring the transportability of the card 3 as it is transported along the outer peripheral surface 22a of the belt 22, and so that when the first magnetic head 17 reads the first inspection magnetic stripe 26, the belt 22 is brought into contact with the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17. As a result, the transportability of the card 3 and the reliability of reading the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 can be improved.

[0048] Furthermore, the belt 22 of the head inspection unit 20 in the automated trading device 1 of Embodiment 1 is provided with a covering material 31 that covers the first inspection magnetic stripe 26. This suppresses wear on the first inspection magnetic stripe 26, increasing its durability and ensuring the inspection accuracy of the reading performance of the first magnetic head 17. In addition, a constant distance can be maintained between the reading surface 17a and the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 in the direction perpendicular to the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17 (Z direction), thereby improving the inspection accuracy of the first magnetic head 17.

[0049] Furthermore, the control unit 11 of the automated trading device 1 in Embodiment 1 controls the head inspection unit 20 to operate periodically. This prevents the automated trading device 1 from interrupting a user's trading due to an abnormality in the first magnetic head 17, such as a reading error.

[0050] <Variations of the belt> The belt 22 in the above-described embodiment 1 has only one first inspection magnetic stripe 26, but it may have multiple first inspection magnetic stripes 26 with different magnetic forces. In the modified example, the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 of the belt 22 includes a high-magnetic-force magnetic stripe 26H and a low-magnetic-force magnetic stripe 26L. The high-magnetic-force magnetic stripe 26H and the low-magnetic-force magnetic stripe 26L are provided at different positions in the circumferential direction of the belt 22. Furthermore, the high-magnetic-force magnetic stripe 26H and the low-magnetic-force magnetic stripe 26L are covered with a covering material 31. The head inspection unit 20 can easily switch between the high-magnetic-force magnetic stripe 26H and the low-magnetic-force magnetic stripe 26L, which are read by the first magnetic head 17, depending on the amount of belt 22 being fed by the drive mechanism 23.

[0051] Therefore, according to the comparative example, the deterioration of the reading performance of the first magnetic head 17 can be detected based on the reading status of the high-strength magnetic stripe 26H and the low-strength magnetic stripe 26L in the first inspection magnetic stripe 26. For example, if the first magnetic head 17 cannot read the low-strength magnetic stripe 26L but can read the high-strength magnetic stripe 26H, it can be detected that the first magnetic stripe 13 of card 3 is in a state where it cannot be read when the magnetic force is low.

[0052] In the modified example, the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 is not limited to including high-strength and low-strength magnetic stripes 26H and 26L with different magnetic forces. The first inspection magnetic stripe 26 may include multiple magnetic stripes with similar magnetic forces, and the magnetic stripe used for inspecting the first magnetic head 17 may be switched at regular intervals. This extends the usable period of the first inspection magnetic stripe 26.

[0053] Other embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. In other embodiments, components identical to those in Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals as in Embodiment 1, and their descriptions are omitted. [Examples]

[0054] Figure 12A is a plan view showing the card reading section of the automated trading device of Example 2. Figure 12B is a cross-sectional view along the Y direction showing the card reading section of the automated trading device of Example 2. Figure 12C is a cross-sectional view along the X direction showing the card reading section of the automated trading device of Example 2. The configuration of the card reading section in Example 2 differs from that of Example 1.

[0055] <Head Inspection Department> As shown in Figures 12A, 12B, and 12C, the card reader 39 of the automated trading device of Embodiment 2 is configured to read not only a card 3 having a first magnetic stripe 13 on the back side 3a, but also a card 3 having a first magnetic stripe 13 on the back side 3a and a second magnetic stripe 14 on the front side 3b, and a card 3 having a second magnetic stripe 14 on the front side 3b.

[0056] Therefore, the transport path 16 of the card reading unit 39 in Embodiment 2 is provided with a first magnetic head 17 for reading the first magnetic stripe 13 of the card 3 being transported in the Y direction along the transport path 16, and a second magnetic head 18 for reading the second magnetic stripe 14 of the card 3 being transported in the Y direction along the transport path 16. The first magnetic head 17 is positioned on the lower side of the transport path 16, and the second magnetic head 18 is positioned on the upper side of the transport path 16. The first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18 are fixed in positions facing each other across the transport path 16.

[0057] The head inspection unit 40 of the card reading unit 39 in Embodiment 2 has a belt 22 that moves with its outer peripheral surface 22a in contact with the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17 and with its inner peripheral surface 22b in contact with the reading surface 18a of the second magnetic head 18. The belt 22 in Embodiment 2 has a first inspection magnetic stripe 26 provided along the circumferential direction of the outer peripheral surface 20a of the belt 22 for inspecting the first magnetic head 17, and a second inspection magnetic stripe 27 provided along the circumferential direction of the inner peripheral surface 20b of the belt 22 for inspecting the second magnetic head 18.

[0058] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 12A and 12C, the belt 22 is provided so as to be movable in parallel along the width direction (X direction) of the belt 22 at a retracted position P1 (see Figure 12C) that is separated from the first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18 in the X direction perpendicular to the transport direction (Y direction) of the transport path 16, and at an entry position P2 (see Figure 15B) that is positioned between the first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18.

[0059] The head inspection unit 40 in Embodiment 2 does not have the pressing table 29 of the head inspection unit 20 in Embodiment 1, and is configured such that the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17 is pressed against the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 on the outer peripheral surface 22a of the belt 22, and the reading surface 18a of the second magnetic head 18 is pressed against the second inspection magnetic stripe 27 on the inner peripheral surface 22b of the belt 22.

[0060] Furthermore, the head inspection unit 40 in Embodiment 2 has a reciprocating mechanism 41 that moves the belt 22 back and forth along the width direction (X direction) of the belt 22 between the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17 and the reading surface 18a of the second magnetic head 18.

[0061] The first inspection magnetic stripe 26 includes a high-strength magnetic stripe 26H and a low-strength magnetic stripe 26L. The high-strength magnetic stripe 26H and the low-strength magnetic stripe 26L are provided at different positions in the circumferential direction of the belt 22. Similarly, the second inspection magnetic stripe 27 includes a high-strength magnetic stripe 27H and a low-strength magnetic stripe 27L. The high-strength magnetic stripe 27H and the low-strength magnetic stripe 27L are provided at different positions in the circumferential direction of the belt 22. In Embodiment 2, the high-strength magnetic stripe 26H and the high-strength magnetic stripe 27H are provided at the same position on either side of the belt 22 in the circumferential direction, and the low-strength magnetic stripe 26L and the low-strength magnetic stripe 27L are provided at the same position on either side of the belt 22.

[0062] Furthermore, the high-strength magnetic stripe 26H, the low-strength magnetic stripe 26L, the high-strength magnetic stripe 27H, and the low-strength magnetic stripe 27L may be positioned at different locations in the circumferential direction of the belt 22, making it possible to selectively use any of the four types of magnetic stripes.

[0063] The advance / retract mechanism 41 of the head inspection unit 40 supports the belt 22, drive roller 23a, and pressing table 29 so as to be movable in the X direction. When inspecting the first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18, the belt 22 is moved from the retracted position P1 to the entry position P2. After inspecting the first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18, the advance / retract mechanism 41 returns the belt 22 from the entry position P2 to the retracted position P1.

[0064] <Operation of the head inspection unit> The operation of the head inspection unit 40 configured as described above will now be explained. Figure 13 is a plan view showing the state in which card 3 is read in Embodiment 2. Figure 14 is a plan view showing the state in which card 3 has been retracted from the first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18 in Embodiment 2. Figure 15A is a plan view showing the state in which the first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18 are being inspected in Embodiment 2. Figure 15B is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which the first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18 are being inspected in Embodiment 2.

[0065] As shown in Figures 12A and 12B, the card 3 inserted from the card entry / exit 5 is transported along the transport direction (Y direction) of the transport path 16 and is sent to the positions of the first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18, as shown in Figure 13. When the card 3 is sent to the position of the first magnetic head 17, it is moved relative to the first magnetic head 17, and the information on the first magnetic stripe 13 is read by the first magnetic head 17. Similarly, when the card 3 is sent to the position of the second magnetic head 18, it is moved relative to the second magnetic head 18, and the information on the second magnetic stripe 14 is read by the second magnetic head 18.

[0066] If the first magnetic head 17 is unable to properly read the information on the first magnetic stripe 13 of card 3, or if the second magnetic head 18 is unable to properly read the information on the second magnetic stripe 14 of card 3, as shown in Figure 14, card 3 is transported along the transport path 16, passing through the first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18, for inspection of the first magnetic head 17 or the second magnetic head 18, and card 3 is moved to a holding position inside the automated transaction device 1. Alternatively, card 3 may be ejected from the card entry / exit 5 instead of being moved to the holding position.

[0067] Next, as shown in Figures 15A and 15B, the head inspection unit 40 moves the belt 22 from the retracted position P1 to the entry position P2 using the advance / return mechanism 41, and moves the belt 22 between the first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18. The head inspection unit 40 also drives the belt 22 with the drive mechanism 23, sending one end of the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 to the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17, and sending one end of the second inspection magnetic stripe 27 to the reading surface 18a of the second magnetic head 18.

[0068] Next, the head inspection unit 40 moves the belt 22 by the drive mechanism 23 so that one end of the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 is moved to the position of the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17, and the reading performance of the first magnetic head 17 is inspected as the first magnetic head 17 reads the information of the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 while the belt 22 is moved. At the same time, the head inspection unit 40 moves the belt 22 by the drive mechanism 23 so that one end of the second inspection magnetic stripe 27 is moved to the position of the reading surface 18a of the second magnetic head 18, and the reading performance of the second magnetic head 18 is inspected as the second magnetic head 18 reads the information of the second inspection magnetic stripe 27 while the belt 22 is moved.

[0069] Furthermore, the head inspection unit 40 inspects the first magnetic head 17 by sequentially using a high-strength magnetic stripe 26H and a low-strength magnetic stripe 26L as the first inspection magnetic stripe 26. Similarly, the head inspection unit 40 inspects the second magnetic head 18 by sequentially using a high-strength magnetic stripe 27H and a low-strength magnetic stripe 27L as the second inspection magnetic stripe 27. After the inspection of the first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18, the card 3 is transported from the holding position to the card entry / exit 5 and discharged from the card entry / exit 5, thereby returning it to the user. After the inspection of the first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18, the head inspection unit 40 returns the belt 22 from the entry position P2 to the retracted position P1 using the advance / retract mechanism 41.

[0070] <Effects of Example 2> In Example 2, the first magnetic head 17, which reads the information on the first magnetic stripe 13 of card 3, and the second magnetic head 18, which reads the information on the second magnetic stripe 14 of card 3, can be inspected by the first inspection magnetic stripe 26 and the second inspection magnetic stripe 27 of the belt 22. In Example 2 as well, it is possible to automatically inspect the reading performance of the first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18 with a simple configuration, thereby enabling miniaturization of the automated trading device 1 and reduction of manufacturing costs. [Examples]

[0071] Figure 16 is a plan view showing the card reading section of the automated trading device in Example 3. Example 3 differs from Example 2 in a part of the head inspection section.

[0072] <Head Inspection Department> As shown in Figure 16, the card reading unit 49 of the automated trading device in Embodiment 3 includes, similar to Embodiment 2, a first magnetic head 17 for reading the first magnetic stripe 13 on the back side 3a of the card 3, and a second magnetic head 18 for reading the second magnetic stripe 14 on the front side 3b of the card 3. The head inspection unit 50 of the card reading unit 49 in Embodiment 3 has a belt 22 with a slit-shaped opening 51 along the circumferential direction of the belt 22, instead of the reciprocating mechanism 41 in Embodiment 2.

[0073] The opening 51 of the belt 22 is formed such that, for example, the opening area of ​​the opening 51 is larger than the area of ​​the second magnetic stripe 14, so that the second magnetic head 18 can properly read the second magnetic stripe 14 on the surface 3b side of the card 3. The belt 22 in Embodiment 3, similar to Embodiment 2, has a first inspection magnetic stripe 26 including a high-strength magnetic stripe 26H and a low-strength magnetic stripe 26L, and a second inspection magnetic stripe 27 including a high-strength magnetic stripe 27H and a low-strength magnetic stripe 27L. The belt 22 is also arranged to move between the first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18 along the transport direction (Y direction) of the transport path 16.

[0074] In Embodiment 3, the second magnetic head 18 reads the second magnetic stripe 14 through the opening 51 and also reads the second inspection magnetic stripe 27 when the belt 22 is moved by the drive mechanism 23. As a result, Embodiment 3 omits the structure and advance / return mechanism 41 that support the belt 22 so that it can move in the width direction (X direction) of the belt 22 relative to the positions of the first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18, thereby simplifying the structure of the head inspection unit 50.

[0075] <Operation of the head inspection unit> The main parts of the operation of the head inspection unit 50 configured as described above will now be explained. Figure 17A is a plan view showing the state in which card 3 is read in Embodiment 3. Figure 17B is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which card 3 is read in Embodiment 3.

[0076] As shown in Figure 16, the card 3 inserted from the card entry / exit 5 is transported along the transport direction (Y direction) of the transport path 16 and is sent to the positions of the first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18, as shown in Figure 13. At this time, as shown in Figures 17A and 17B, the head inspection unit 50 in Embodiment 3 drives the belt 22 with the drive mechanism 23 to send the opening 51 of the belt 22 to the positions of the first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18, and positions the second magnetic stripe 14 of the card 3 that has been sent to the position of the second magnetic head 18 inside the opening 51. Subsequently, the head inspection unit 50 reads the first magnetic stripe 13 with the first magnetic head 17 and reads the second magnetic stripe 14 through the opening 51 with the second magnetic head 18.

[0077] In the head inspection unit 50, when inspecting the first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18, the belt 22 is moved by the drive mechanism 23 as in the embodiment 2 described above, and the first magnetic head 17 reads the first inspection magnetic stripe 26, while the second magnetic head 18 reads the first inspection magnetic stripe 26, thereby inspecting the first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18.

[0078] <Effects of Example 3> According to Embodiment 3, the belt 22 has an opening 51 for reading the second magnetic stripe 14 of the card 3 by the second magnetic head 18. This eliminates the need for a reciprocating mechanism 41, etc., that moves the belt 22 back and forth between the reading surface 17a of the first magnetic head 17 and the reading surface 18a of the second magnetic head 18, as in Embodiment 2. Therefore, Embodiment 3 allows for a simpler structure of the head inspection unit 50 compared to Embodiment 2. Furthermore, in Embodiment 3, as in Embodiment 2, it is possible to automatically inspect the reading performance of the first magnetic head 17 and the second magnetic head 18 with a simple configuration, thereby enabling miniaturization of the automated trading device 1 and reducing manufacturing costs.

[0079] [Note 1] A transport path for transporting a trading medium having a first magnetic stripe, A first magnetic head is provided in the transport path and reads the information of the first magnetic stripe of the trading medium being transported along the transport path. The system includes a head inspection unit for inspecting the reading performance of the first magnetic head, The head inspection unit comprises an annular belt having an outer surface that moves in contact with the first magnetic head, a drive mechanism for driving the belt, and a first inspection magnetic stripe provided along the circumferential direction of the outer surface of the belt for inspecting the first magnetic head, in an automated trading device. [Note 2] The head inspection unit has a pressing platform provided on the inner circumference side of the belt that presses the belt against the reading surface of the first magnetic head. The automated trading device described in Appendix 1. [Note 3] The first inspection magnetic stripe includes a high-magnetic-force magnetic stripe and a low-magnetic-force magnetic stripe. The high-strength magnetic stripe and the low-strength magnetic stripe are provided at different positions in the circumferential direction of the belt. The automated trading device described in Appendix 1. [Note 4] The trading medium has a second magnetic stripe provided on the side opposite to the side on which the first magnetic stripe is provided. The transport path is provided with a second magnetic head for reading the second magnetic stripe on the trading medium being transported along the transport path. The belt is provided such that its inner circumferential surface moves in contact with the second magnetic head, and has a second inspection magnetic stripe provided along the circumferential direction of the inner circumferential surface for inspecting the second magnetic head. The automated trading device described in Appendix 1. [Note 5] The head inspection unit has a contact mechanism that brings the outer surface of the belt into contact with the reading surface of the first magnetic head. The automated trading device described in Appendix 1. [Note 6] The head inspection unit has a reciprocating mechanism that moves the belt forward and backward along the width direction of the belt between the first magnetic head and the second magnetic head. The automated trading device described in Appendix 4. [Note 7] The belt has an opening along the circumferential direction of the belt, The second magnetic head reads the second magnetic stripe through the opening and also reads the second inspection magnetic stripe when the belt is moved by the drive mechanism. The automated trading device described in Appendix 4. [Note 8] The head inspection unit is further provided with a control unit for controlling the head inspection unit, The control unit controls the head inspection unit to operate periodically. The automated trading device described in Appendix 1. [Note 9] The belt is provided with a covering material that covers the first inspection magnetic stripe. The automated trading device described in Appendix 1. [Note 10] The belt is provided with a covering material that covers the second inspection magnetic stripe. The automated trading device described in Appendix 4. [Note 11] The transaction medium is a cash card or a savings passbook. An automated trading device as described in any one of the appendices 1 through 10. [Note 12] A magnetic head inspection method using an automated trading device, comprising: a transport path for transporting trading media having a magnetic stripe; a magnetic head provided on the transport path for reading information on the magnetic stripe of trading media being transported along the transport path; and a head inspection unit for inspecting the reading performance of the magnetic head, wherein the head inspection unit comprises: an annular belt having an outer surface that moves in contact with the magnetic head; a drive mechanism for driving the belt; and an inspection magnetic stripe provided along the circumferential direction of the outer surface of the belt for inspecting the magnetic head, A magnetic head inspection method comprising: the drive mechanism drives the belt relative to the magnetic head so that the magnetic head reads the inspection magnetic stripe. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0080] 1. Automated trading device 3. Cash card (transaction medium) 11 Control Unit 13. First magnetic stripe 14. Second magnetic stripe 16 Conveyor path 17. First magnetic head 17a Reading surface 18. Second magnetic head 18a Reading surface 20 Head Inspection Department 22 belts 22a Outer surface 22b Inner surface 23 Drive mechanism 24 Contact mechanism 26. First inspection magnetic stripe 26H High Magnetic Force Magnetic Strip 26L Low Magnetic Force Magnetic Strip 27. Second inspection magnetic stripe 27H High Magnetic Force Magnetic Stripe 27L Low Magnetic Strip 29 Pressing platform 31 Covering material 40 Head Inspection Department 41 Advancement / retraction mechanism 50 Head Inspection Department 51 Aperture

Claims

1. A transport path for transporting a trading medium having a first magnetic stripe, A first magnetic head is provided in the transport path and reads the information of the first magnetic stripe of the trading medium being transported along the transport path. The system includes a head inspection unit for inspecting the reading performance of the first magnetic head, The head inspection unit comprises an annular belt having an outer surface that moves in contact with the first magnetic head, a drive mechanism for driving the belt, and a first inspection magnetic stripe provided along the circumferential direction of the outer surface of the belt for inspecting the first magnetic head, in an automated trading device.

2. The head inspection unit has a pressing platform provided on the inner circumference side of the belt that presses the belt against the reading surface of the first magnetic head. The automated trading device according to claim 1.

3. The first inspection magnetic stripe includes a high-magnetic-force magnetic stripe and a low-magnetic-force magnetic stripe. The high-strength magnetic stripe and the low-strength magnetic stripe are provided at different positions in the circumferential direction of the belt. The automated trading device according to claim 1.

4. The trading medium has a second magnetic stripe provided on the side opposite to the side on which the first magnetic stripe is provided. The transport path is provided with a second magnetic head for reading the second magnetic stripe on the trading medium being transported along the transport path. The belt is provided such that its inner circumferential surface moves in contact with the second magnetic head, and has a second inspection magnetic stripe provided along the circumferential direction of the inner circumferential surface for inspecting the second magnetic head. The automated trading device according to claim 1.

5. The head inspection unit has a contact mechanism that brings the outer surface of the belt into contact with the reading surface of the first magnetic head. The automated trading device according to claim 1.

6. A magnetic head inspection method using an automated trading device, comprising: a transport path for transporting trading media having a magnetic stripe; a magnetic head provided on the transport path for reading information on the magnetic stripe of trading media being transported along the transport path; and a head inspection unit for inspecting the reading performance of the magnetic head, wherein the head inspection unit comprises: an annular belt having an outer surface that moves in contact with the magnetic head; a drive mechanism for driving the belt; and an inspection magnetic stripe provided along the circumferential direction of the outer surface of the belt for inspecting the magnetic head, A magnetic head inspection method comprising: the drive mechanism drives the belt relative to the magnetic head so that the magnetic head reads the inspection magnetic stripe.

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