Paper handling equipment

Abstract

To provide a paper sheet processing device capable of reducing labor for maintenance.SOLUTION: A paper sheet processing device includes an inspection unit, a cutting unit, and a processor. The inspection unit detects physical characteristics of paper sheets. The cutting unit cuts paper sheets classified into cutting objects based on a detection result obtained by the inspection unit. The processor counts the number of cutting operation performed by the cutting unit for paper sheets stuck with an adhesive tape and, when a count value obtained by counting exceeds a threshold, requires the maintenance of the cutting unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a paper sheet processing apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, some paper sheet processing devices have a cutting unit that cuts paper sheets (hereinafter also referred to as tickets). For example, the paper sheet processing device inspects each of a plurality of tickets that are sequentially conveyed, and cuts tickets that are highly dirty or damaged, including tickets with adhesive tape attached, as tickets that do not meet a predetermined standard by the cutting unit.

[0003] The cutting unit of the paper sheet processing device cuts the paper sheets with a blade operated by a drive mechanism including a motor. When repeatedly cutting paper sheets with adhesive tape attached, an adhesive substance adheres to the blade of the cutting unit. The adhesive substance adhered to the blade creates resistance when cutting the paper sheets. When the resistance caused by the adhered adhesive substance becomes large, it becomes difficult for the cutting unit to cut the paper sheets with the blade.

[0004] In conventional paper processing devices, when sticky substances adhering to the blades make it difficult to cut sheets, the device immediately stops operation and waits for maintenance by a maintenance technician. In addition, there is a problem that maintenance of the cutting unit where sticky substances have adhered to the blades to the extent that cutting sheets is difficult is a large-scale task that takes time and effort. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2021-50084 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide a paper sheet processing apparatus that can reduce the maintenance work. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to an embodiment, the sheet processing apparatus includes an inspection unit, a cutting unit, and a processor. By using multiple sensors, including a sensor that detects thickness The processor detects physical characteristics of the paper sheets. The cutter cuts the paper sheets that are classified as paper sheets to be cut based on the detection results by the inspection unit. determining whether or not an adhesive tape is attached to the paper sheet classified as the cutting target based on the thickness inspected by the inspection unit; The number of sheets of paper with adhesive tape attached thereto cut by the cutting unit is counted, and when the count value exceeds a threshold, a maintenance of the cutting unit is requested. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a sheet processing system including an inspection machine and a rejected sheet processor as a sheet processing apparatus according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an inspection machine as a sheet processing apparatus according to an embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a first configuration example of a cutter unit in an inspection machine as a paper sheet processing apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining a first operation example of the inspection machine serving as the paper sheet processing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining a second operation example of the inspection machine serving as the paper sheet processing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a first configuration example of a cutter unit in an inspection machine as a paper sheet processing apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining a third operation example of the inspection machine serving as the paper sheet processing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining a fourth operation example of the inspection machine serving as the paper sheet processing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a second configuration example of a sheet processing system including an inspection machine and a rejected sheet processor as a sheet processing apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining a fifth operation example of the inspection machine as the paper sheet processing apparatus according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. First, a paper sheet processing system 1 according to an embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a paper sheet processing system 1 according to an embodiment. The sheet processing system 1 according to the embodiment includes an inspection machine 11, a rejected sheet processor 12, and a management device 13. In the sheet processing system 1, there may be a plurality of inspection machines 11 and a plurality of rejected sheet processors 12. In the configuration example shown in Fig. 1, the sheet processing system 1 includes an inspection machine 11A and an inspection machine 11B.

[0010] The inspection machine 11 (11A, 11B, ...) is an example of a sheet processing device equipped with a cutting unit that cuts sheets (hereinafter referred to as sheets). The sheets that the inspection machine 11 processes (inspects) are assumed to be sheets that have been produced by a specified institution through regular procedures. For example, the sheets that the inspection machine 11 processes are assumed to be securities such as banknotes.

[0011] The inspection machine 11 receives a number of bills to be inspected. The inspection machine 11 inspects each received bill according to predetermined standards. The inspection machine 11 performs inspections on each bill, such as detecting the type, authenticity, and fitness of the bill. The inspection machine 11 classifies each bill based on the detection results, and processes each bill according to the classification. In this embodiment, the inspection machine 11 classifies each bill as either a rejected bill, a fit bill, or a damaged bill. The inspection machine 11 processes each bill according to its classification.

[0012] The inspection machine 11 classifies bills that meet a predetermined standard as genuine bills. For example, genuine bills are bills that can be reused and are bills that meet a predetermined standard and have little damage among bills that have been produced by a predetermined institution through regular procedures (hereinafter referred to as genuine bills). The inspection machine 11 stacks the genuine bills and discharges them in groups of a predetermined number.

[0013] Rejected sheets are sheets that are to be processed by the rejected sheet processor 12. The inspection machine 11 rejects sheets that are not determined to be genuine, sheets whose condition cannot be inspected (for example, sheets transported at an angle), and sheets that cannot be counted (for example, sheets transported overlapping one another). The inspection machine 11 stacks the rejected sheets in a stacking section for rejected sheets so that they can be supplied to the rejected sheet processor 12. The rejected sheets stacked in the stacking section for rejected sheets are processed by the rejected sheet processor 12.

[0014] Unfit bills are bills that are to be cut in the cutting section described below. The inspection machine 11 classifies bills that do not meet predetermined standards as unfit bills. For example, unfit bills are bills that are so dirty or damaged that they do not meet predetermined standards and should not be reused. In this embodiment, the inspection machine 11 also classifies bills with adhesive tape attached (hereinafter referred to as taped bills) as unfit bills.

[0015] The rejected sheet processor 12 is another example of a paper sheet processing device that includes a cutting unit that cuts sheets. The rejected sheet processor 12 accepts sheets that have been rejected by the inspection machine 11. The rejected sheet processor 12 inspects each accepted sheet according to a predetermined standard. The rejected sheet processor 12 classifies the sheets into sheets to be cut or other sheets. For example, the rejected sheet processor 12 determines whether each sheet is genuine or not, and cuts sheets that are determined to be genuine in the cutting unit. Here, the cutting unit included in the rejected sheet processor 12 may have a configuration similar to that of the cutting unit in the inspection machine 11 described below.

[0016] The management device 13 manages the processing status of the entire sheet processing system 1. The management device 13 acquires information indicating the processing results of each inspection machine 11 and rejected sheet processing machine 12, and tally up the processing volume of the entire sheet processing system 1. For example, the management device 13 acquires the processing results for sheets from each inspection machine 11, and tally up the number of fit sheets, damaged sheets, rejected sheets (the number of times sheets were rejected), etc. for each type of sheet based on the processing results acquired from each inspection machine 11. The management device 13 checks that the number of sheets inserted (input) into the inspection machine 11 matches the number of processed sheets, based on the result of tallying up the processing results acquired from each machine.

[0017] For example, the management device 13 obtains the count of fit bills, the count of damaged bills, and the count of rejected bills (the number of times they were processed as rejected bills) from each inspection machine 11. The management device 13 also obtains the count of bills cut by the rejected bill processor 12 and the count of bills that could not be cut. Bills that could not be cut by the rejected bill processor 12 are counted manually by an operator, and the counted value is input to the rejected bill processor 12.

[0018] Next, a configuration of the inspection machine 11 as the sheet processing apparatus according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration example of an inspection machine 11 as a sheet processing apparatus according to an embodiment. The inspection machine 11 has, as a control system configuration, a control unit 20, a display unit 24, and an operation unit 25. The control unit 20 controls each unit in the inspection machine 11 and processes data. The control unit 20 has a processor 21, a memory 22, and a communication interface (I / F) 23.

[0019] The processor 21 controls each unit, processes data, etc. The processor 21 is, for example, a CPU. The processor 21 executes programs stored in the memory 22 or the like to execute various processes including the control of each unit and data processing.

[0020] The memory 22 includes various types of memory such as a RAM, a ROM, and a rewritable non-volatile memory. For example, the RAM functions as a working memory and temporarily stores data being worked on. The ROM is a non-rewritable non-volatile memory and stores, for example, programs (such as OS programs) and control data. The rewritable volatile memory is, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD). The rewritable non-volatile memory stores programs (such as application programs) and setting values. For example, the NVM and the NVM store programs and control data.

[0021] The communication interface 23 is an interface for communicating with an external device. The control unit 20 communicates with the management device 13 via the communication interface 23. The communication interface 23 is, for example, a network interface for communicating with an external device on a network via a local area network (LAN). The communication interface 23 may be an interface for communicating with an external device via a wired connection, or may be an interface for communicating with an external device wirelessly.

[0022] The display unit 24 is a display device. The display unit 24 displays an operation screen and information indicating a processing status. The operation unit 25 is an operation device for an operator to input operation instructions and the like. The operation unit 25 is composed of a touch panel, operation buttons, a numeric keypad, a keyboard, and the like. For example, the display unit 24 and the operation unit 25 are composed of a display device equipped with a touch panel.

[0023] The inspection machine 11 also has various drive mechanisms that operate in response to control instructions from the control unit 20. First, the inspection machine 11 has an input port 30 into which paper sheets are inserted. A conveying path is connected to the input port 30. The conveying path conveys the sheet inserted into the input port 30 to a subsequent stage.

[0024] A supply unit 33 is provided downstream of the input port 30 in the conveying direction of the conveying path. The supply unit 33 sends the bills one by one via the conveying path to the inspection unit 34 at the downstream side. The inspection unit 34 inspects each banknote supplied from the supply unit 33 via the conveying path. The inspection unit 34 is equipped with sensors for detecting various physical characteristics. For example, the inspection unit 34 is equipped with various sensors for detecting physical features such as thickness, image, magnetic characteristics, and optical characteristics. The inspection unit 34 inspects the type (denomination), authenticity, and fitness of the banknote to be inspected based on the physical characteristics detected by each sensor. Note that when the inspection machine 11 inspects a specific denomination of banknotes, the inspection unit 34 may be configured to detect the authenticity and fitness of the banknote, since it is not necessary to specify the denomination.

[0025] Authenticity detection (authenticity determination) is a process for detecting the authenticity of a note to be inspected. In authenticity determination, for example, the authenticity of a note is determined based on whether the inspection unit 34 can detect predetermined physical characteristics similar to those of a regular note (genuine note). Notes that are not determined to be genuine by the authenticity determination (or determined to be counterfeit notes) and notes for which the physical characteristics required for authenticity determination cannot be detected (for example, notes transported at an angle or notes transported overlapping one another) are rejected notes. Moreover, fitness detection (fitness determination) is a process for detecting the fitness of notes that have been determined to be genuine. In fitness determination, it is determined whether a note determined to be genuine by the authenticity determination is a note that can be recirculated (fit note) or a note that cannot be recirculated (damaged note).

[0026] The authenticity determination and fitness determination of the note may be performed by the inspection unit 34 or the control unit 20. In the former case, the inspection unit 34 may supply the results of the authenticity determination and fitness determination to the control unit 20. In the latter case, the inspection unit 34 may supply various detection data for performing the authenticity determination and fitness determination to the control unit 20, and the control unit 20 may perform the authenticity determination and fitness determination based on the detection data acquired from the inspection unit 34.

[0027] Depending on the inspection result, the sheets inspected by the inspection unit 34 are transported to either the genuine sheet stacking unit 37, the cutting unit 36, or the rejected sheet cassette 35. Sheets determined to be genuine by the inspection unit 34 are transported to the genuine sheet stacking unit 37. Sheets determined to be rejected by the inspection unit 34 are transported to the rejected sheet cassette. Sheets determined to be unfit by the inspection unit 34 are transported to the cutting unit 36.

[0028] The genuine banknote stacking unit 37 stacks the banknotes that have been determined to be genuine by the inspection unit 34. The banding unit 38 bands the banknotes (genuine banknotes) stacked in the genuine banknote stacking unit 37 in predetermined numbers. For example, the banding unit 38 bands the genuine banknotes in predetermined numbers using small bands. The genuine banknotes banded in the small bands are sent to the discharge unit 41. The discharge unit 41 discharges the banknotes banded by the banding unit 40 from a discharge opening 42.

[0029] The rejected ticket cassette 35 is a stacking section for rejected tickets. The rejected ticket cassette 35 stacks tickets that have been determined to be rejected tickets by the inspection section 34. The tickets stacked in the rejected ticket cassette 35 are processed by the rejected ticket processor 12, for example by manual operation by an operator. The control section 20 also counts the number of times tickets have been stacked in the rejected ticket cassette 35. The control section 20 transmits the count value of the number of times tickets have been stacked in the rejected ticket cassette 35 to the management device 13.

[0030] The cutting unit 36 ​​cuts the bills that are determined to be damaged by the inspection unit 34. The cutting unit 36 ​​cuts badly soiled bills in order to discard them. The configuration of the cutting unit 36 ​​will be described later. The control unit 20 counts the number of bills cut by the cutting unit 36. The control unit 20 transmits the count value of the number of bills cut by the cutting unit 36 ​​to the management device 13.

[0031] Next, the configuration of the cutting unit 36 ​​in the inspection machine 11 according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a first configuration example of the cutting unit 36 ​​in the inspection machine 11 according to the embodiment. 3, the cutting unit 36 ​​includes a cutting control unit 50, a motor 51, a blade 52, and a load detector 53. The cutting control unit 50 controls the cutting unit. For example, the cutting control unit 50 includes a processor, a memory, and various interfaces.

[0032] The motor 51 drives the blade 52. The blade 52 cuts the ticket by being operated by the motor 51. For example, the motor 51 rotates the blade 52 to draw in and cut the ticket to be cut. The blade 52 faces greater resistance to rotation when a sticky substance or the like adheres to it. For this reason, when the resistance to the rotation of the blade 52 increases due to the adhesion of a sticky substance or the like, the load on the motor 51 also increases.

[0033] The load detector 53 detects the load applied to the motor 51 that drives the blade 52. For example, the load detector 53 measures the current value flowing through the motor 51 as the load value generated in the motor 51 when the blade 52 is rotated. When the resistance generated in the rotation of the blade 52 increases due to adhesion of a sticky substance or the like, the current value as the load value detected by the load detector 53 also increases.

[0034] Hereinafter, the operation of the inspection machine 11 as the sheet processing apparatus according to the embodiment will be described. First, a first operation example of the inspection machine 11 as the sheet processing apparatus according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining a first operation example of the inspection machine 11 as the sheet processing apparatus according to the embodiment. In the inspection machine 11, the processor 21 of the control unit 20 starts operation in response to an instruction to start operation input by the operator via the operation unit 25 (ST10). After starting operation, the processor 21 checks whether or not there is a ticket to be processed (ST11). For example, the processor 21 determines that there is a ticket until the processing of the ticket inserted into the insertion slot 30 is completed, and determines that there is no ticket when the processing of the ticket inserted into the insertion slot 30 is completed. If it determines that there is no ticket (ST11, YES), the processor 21 stops the operation of the inspection machine 11 (ST12).

[0035] If it is determined that a ticket is present (ST11, NO), processor 21 removes and transports the ticket inserted into slot 30 (ST13). For example, processor 21 sends the ticket inserted into slot 30 to supply unit 33. Supply unit 33 supplies the broken tickets one by one via a transport path to inspection unit 34. Inspection unit 34 supplies data indicating various physical characteristics detected by various sensors from the ticket to be inspected to processor 21 as the inspection result.

[0036] The processor 21 determines the type of the inspected note based on the inspection results obtained from the inspection unit 34, and decides whether the note is a rejected note, a good note, or a damaged note (ST14). For example, the processor 21 classifies the notes inspected by the inspection unit 34 as a rejected note, a good note, or a damaged note by determining the authenticity and fitness of the note based on the inspection results by the inspection unit 34. The processor 21 decides the destination of each note according to the classification based on the inspection results.

[0037] Here, processor 21 counts the number of sheets for each type and classification determined based on the inspection results. For example, when processor 21 determines that an inspected sheet is a rejected sheet by inspection unit 34, processor 21 counts the number of rejected sheets (the number of times it was determined to be a rejected sheet). When processor 21 determines that an inspected sheet is a genuine sheet, processor 21 counts the number of genuine sheets for each type. When processor 21 determines that an inspected sheet is an unfit sheet, processor 21 counts the number of unfit sheets for each type. These count values ​​are notified to management device 13 by processor 21 via communication interface 23.

[0038] If the sheet inspected by inspection unit 34 is a rejected sheet (ST15, YES), processor 21 transports the sheet (rejected sheet) to rejected sheet cassette 35, which serves as a rejected sheet stacking unit (ST18). For example, processor 21 rejects sheets that have been determined to be non-genuine (counterfeit) and sheets whose genuineness cannot be determined due to skew (poor conveying posture) or double picking. The rejected sheets stacked in rejected sheet cassette 35 are processed by rejected sheet processor 12.

[0039] If the note inspected by inspection unit 34 is a genuine note (ST15, NO), processor 21 determines whether the note (genuine note) is a valid note or a damaged note (ST16). For example, processor 21 determines whether a note determined to be a genuine note is a valid note that can be recirculated, or a damaged note that cannot be recirculated.

[0040] If the inspection unit 34 determines that the banknote inspected is a genuine banknote (ST16, YES), the processor 21 transports the banknote (genuine banknote) to the genuine banknote stacking unit 37 (ST17). The genuine banknote stacking unit 37 stacks the genuine banknotes and supplies the stacked banknotes (genuine banknotes) to the banding unit 38 in predetermined numbers. The banding unit 38 bands the genuine banknotes stacked in the genuine banknote stacking unit 37 in predetermined numbers. The banded banknotes are discharged from the discharge port 42 by the discharge unit 41.

[0041] If the sheet inspected by the inspection unit 34 is a damaged sheet (ST16, NO), the processor 21 transports the sheet to the cutting unit 36 ​​(ST19). The cutting unit 36 ​​accepts the damaged sheet supplied from the inspection unit 34 as a sheet to be cut. When the cutting unit 36 ​​is supplied with a sheet to be cut, it cuts the sheet by operating the blade 52 with the motor 51.

[0042] Furthermore, when a ticket determined to be an undamaged ticket is to be cut by cutting unit 36, processor 21 determines whether or not the ticket is a taped ticket (ST20). For example, processor 21 determines whether or not the ticket is a taped ticket to which adhesive tape is affixed based on the thickness of the ticket inspected by inspection unit 34. If processor 21 determines that the ticket to be cut by cutting unit 36 ​​is not a taped ticket (ST20, NO), processor 21 executes processing on the next ticket.

[0043] When it is determined that the ticket to be cut by the cutting unit 36 ​​is a taped ticket (ST20, YES), the processor 21 counts the ticket as a taped ticket (ST21). For example, the processor 21 provides a counter in the memory 22 for counting the taped tickets, and counts up the counter to count the taped tickets.

[0044] In addition, when the cutting unit 36 ​​cuts tickets other than taped tickets, it has the effect of removing adhesive substances adhering to the blades. Therefore, the processor 21 may subtract or clear the count value according to the number of tickets other than taped tickets cut. In this case, the inspection machine can determine whether or not maintenance, which will be described later, is necessary based on the count value obtained by correcting the number of taped tickets cut according to the number of tickets other than taped tickets cut.

[0045] Furthermore, if taped tickets are repeatedly cut in succession in the cutting unit 36, it is possible that adhesive substances will adhere to the blades in large amounts. For this reason, the processor 21 may be configured to count the number of taped tickets continuously cut by the cutting unit 36. In this case, the inspection machine can determine whether or not maintenance, which will be described later, is necessary based on the number of taped tickets continuously cut.

[0046] When a ticket to be cut by the cutting unit 36 ​​is counted as a taped ticket, the processor 21 determines whether the count value of taped tickets exceeds a threshold value (ST22). The threshold value for the count value of taped tickets is stored (set) in advance in the memory 22. The threshold value for the count value of taped tickets is a set value for performing maintenance (including cleaning of the blade 52) on the cutting unit 36 ​​according to the number of tickets stuck on the table.

[0047] The threshold value for the count value of taped tickets is not limited to a predetermined number set in advance. For example, the threshold value for the count value of taped tickets may be a value that varies depending on the number of table-pasted tickets that are continuously cut by the cutting unit 36. Also, the threshold value for the count value of taped tickets may be a value that varies depending on the number of tickets other than taped tickets that are cut.

[0048] When the count value of the taped tickets exceeds the threshold value (ST22, YES), the processor 21 stops the operation of the inspection machine 11 (ST23) and provides a notification to perform maintenance (ST24). For example, the processor 21 stops each driving mechanism in the inspection machine 11, and then displays a notification (warning) on ​​the display unit 24 to the effect that maintenance of the cutting unit 36 ​​will be performed. The processor 21 may also issue an alert through a speaker (not shown) or the like, or may transmit a notification to an external device to the effect that maintenance of the cutting unit will be performed.

[0049] After informing the user of the maintenance, processor 21 waits for the completion of the maintenance work on cutting unit 36. For example, processor 21 determines that the maintenance work is completed when an instruction to complete the maintenance work is input to operation unit 25. When the maintenance work is completed, processor 21 clears the counter for taped tickets (ST26) and resumes operation.

[0050] According to the first operation example described above, the inspection machine counts the number of taped tickets cut by the cutting unit. When the number of taped tickets cut by the cutting unit exceeds a predetermined threshold, the inspection machine stops operation and displays a notice (warning) to perform maintenance on the cutting unit. When the maintenance work on the cutting unit is completed, the inspection machine clears the count value of the taped tickets and resumes operation.

[0051] This allows maintenance work to be performed on the cutting unit according to the number of taped tickets cut, preventing the machine from stopping due to an error in the cutting unit. Also, since maintenance work can be prompted before an error in the cutting unit causes the inspection machine to stop, the frequency of blade replacement in the cutting unit can be reduced.

[0052] Next, a second operation example of the inspection machine 11 as the sheet processing apparatus according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining a second operation example of the inspection machine 11 as the paper sheet processing apparatus according to the embodiment. In the inspection machine 11, the processor 21 of the control unit 20 starts operation in response to an instruction to start operation input by the operator to the operation unit 25 (ST10). After starting operation, the processor 21 checks whether or not there is a ticket to be processed (ST11). For example, the processor 21 determines that there is a ticket until the processing of the ticket inserted into the insertion slot 30 is completed, and determines that there is no ticket when the processing of the ticket inserted into the insertion slot 30 is completed. If it determines that there is no ticket (ST11, YES), the processor 21 stops the operation of the inspection machine 11 (ST12).

[0053] If it is determined that a ticket is present (ST11, NO), processor 21 removes and transports the ticket inserted into the slot (ST13). For example, processor 21 supplies the tickets inserted into slot 30 one by one from supply unit 33 to inspection unit 34. Inspection unit 34 supplies data indicating various physical characteristics detected by various sensors from the ticket to be inspected to processor 21 as the inspection result.

[0054] The processor 21 determines the type of the inspected note based on the inspection results obtained from the inspection unit 34, and decides whether the note is a rejected note, a good note, or a damaged note (ST14). For example, the processor 21 classifies the notes inspected by the inspection unit 34 as a rejected note, a good note, or a damaged note by determining the authenticity and fitness of the note based on the inspection results by the inspection unit 34. The processor 21 decides the destination of each note according to the classification based on the inspection results.

[0055] The processor 21 counts the number of bills for each denomination and classification determined based on the inspection results. These count values ​​are notified to the management device 13 by the processor 21 via the communication interface 23.

[0056] If the sheet inspected by inspection unit 34 is a rejected sheet (ST15, YES), processor 21 transports the sheet to rejected sheet cassette 35, which serves as a rejected sheet stacking unit (ST18). For example, processor 21 rejects sheets that have been determined to be non-genuine (counterfeit) and sheets whose genuineness or fitness cannot be determined due to skew (poor conveying posture) or double picking. The rejected sheets stacked in rejected sheet cassette 35 are processed by rejected sheet processor 12.

[0057] When the inspection unit 34 determines that the note inspected is a genuine note (ST15, NO), the processor 21 determines whether the note is a good note or a damaged note (ST16). For example, the processor 21 determines whether the note that is determined to be a genuine note is a good note that can be recirculated, or a damaged note that cannot be recirculated.

[0058] If the inspection unit 34 determines that the banknote inspected is a genuine banknote (ST16, YES), the processor 21 transports the banknote to the genuine banknote stacking unit 37 (ST17). The genuine banknote stacking unit 37 stacks the banknotes (genuine banknotes) supplied thereto, and supplies the banknotes in predetermined numbers to the sealing unit 38. The sealing unit 38 seals the genuine banknotes in predetermined numbers. The banknotes sealed in the sealing unit 38 are discharged from the discharge port 42 by the discharge unit 41.

[0059] When the inspection unit 34 determines that the sheet inspected is a damaged sheet (ST16, NO), the processor 21 conveys the sheet to the cutting unit 36 ​​(ST19). The cutting unit 36 ​​accepts the damaged sheet supplied from the inspection unit 34 as a sheet to be cut. When the cutting unit 36 ​​receives the sheet to be cut, it cuts the sheet by operating the blade 52 with the motor 51.

[0060] Furthermore, when cutting paper sheets in the cutting unit 36, the processor 21 detects a load value indicating the magnitude of the load applied to the motor 51 that operates the blade 52 by the load detector 53. The load detector 53 detects a current value as a load value indicating the load applied to the motor 51 that operates the blade 52.

[0061] Processor 21 determines whether the load value detected by load detector 53 exceeds a predetermined upper limit value (threshold value for load value) (ST32). For example, processor 21 determines whether the current value detected as the load value by load detector 53 exceeds a predetermined upper limit value. If it is determined that the load value does not exceed the upper limit value (ST32, NO), processor 21 performs processing for the next ticket.

[0062] When it is determined that the load value detected by the load detector 53 exceeds a predetermined upper limit (ST32, YES), the processor 21 stops the operation of the inspection machine 11 (ST23) and provides a notification to perform maintenance (ST24). For example, the processor 21 displays a notification (warning) to the effect that maintenance of the cutting unit 36 ​​will be performed on the display unit 24 after stopping each drive mechanism in the inspection machine 11. The processor 21 may also issue an alert through a speaker (not shown) or the like, or may transmit a notification to an external device to the effect that maintenance of the cutting unit 36 ​​will be performed.

[0063] After informing the user of the maintenance, processor 21 waits for the completion of the maintenance work on cutting unit 36. For example, processor 21 determines that the maintenance work is completed when an instruction to complete the maintenance work is input to operation unit 25. When the maintenance work is completed, processor 21 clears the counter for taped tickets (ST26) and resumes operation.

[0064] According to the second operation example described above, when the load on the motor that drives the cutting blade during cutting processing in the cutting unit exceeds a threshold, the inspection machine stops operation and displays a guide (warning) to perform maintenance on the cutting unit. The inspection machine resumes operation when the maintenance work on the cutting unit is completed.

[0065] This allows maintenance work to be performed on the cutting unit according to the magnitude of the load applied when cutting is performed, and prevents the device from stopping due to an error occurring in the cutting unit. Also, since it is possible to encourage maintenance work to be performed before an error in the cutting unit causes the inspection machine to stop, it is possible to reduce the frequency of blade replacement in the cutting unit.

[0066] Next, a third and fourth operation example of the inspection machine 11 as the sheet processing apparatus according to the embodiment will be described. When the third and fourth operation examples are performed, the cutting unit 36 ​​in the inspection machine 11 is provided with a mechanism (maintenance mechanism) for performing its own maintenance (self-maintenance).

[0067] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration example (second configuration example) of the cutting unit 36 ​​provided in the inspection machine 11 that performs the third and fourth operation examples. A second configuration example of the cutting unit 36 ​​shown in Fig. 6 is obtained by adding an oiling mechanism 54 and a cleaning ticket supply mechanism 55 to the configuration shown in Fig. 3. The oiling mechanism 54 and the cleaning ticket supply mechanism 55 are examples of a maintenance mechanism for performing self-maintenance in the cutting unit 36.

[0068] The oiling mechanism 54 supplies lubricating oil to the blade 52. The oiling mechanism 54 reduces the resistance that occurs when the blade 52 moves by supplying lubricating oil to the blade 52. As self-maintenance, the cutting unit 36 ​​operates the blade (idle operation) with the motor 51 while supplying lubricating oil to the blade 52 with the oiling mechanism 54. This removes sticky substances adhering to the blade 52, and has the effect of making the operation of the blade 52 smoother.

[0069] The cleaning ticket supply mechanism 55 supplies cleaning tickets (cleaning tickets) to a cutting position for the ticket by the blade 52 driven by the motor 51. The cleaning ticket is a medium of the same size as the ticket to be processed (cut), and adhesive matter adhering to the blade 52 can be removed when it is cut. When performing maintenance using the cleaning ticket supply mechanism 55, the cutting unit 36 ​​cuts the cleaning ticket supplied by the cleaning ticket supply mechanism 55 with the blade 52 driven by the motor 51 as self-maintenance. This provides the effect that adhesive matter adhering to the blade 52 is removed when the blade 52 cuts the cleaning ticket supplied by the cleaning ticket supply mechanism 55.

[0070] FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining a third operation example of the inspection machine 11 as the paper sheet processing apparatus according to the embodiment. In the inspection machine 11, the processor 21 of the control unit 20 starts operation in response to an instruction to start operation input by an operator to the operation unit 25 (ST10). After starting operation, the processor 21 checks whether or not there is a sheet to be processed (ST11). If it is determined that there is no sheet (ST11, YES), the processor 21 stops operation of the inspection machine 11 (ST12).

[0071] If it is determined that a ticket is present (ST11, NO), processor 21 removes and transports the ticket inserted into the slot (ST13). For example, processor 21 supplies the tickets inserted into slot 30 one by one from supply unit 33 to inspection unit 34. Inspection unit 34 inspects the tickets supplied from supply unit 33 and supplies the inspection results to processor 21. Inspection unit 34 supplies data indicating various physical characteristics detected by various sensors from the ticket to be inspected to processor 21 as the inspection results.

[0072] The processor 21 determines the type of the inspected note based on the inspection results obtained from the inspection unit 34, and decides whether the note is a rejected note, a good note, or a damaged note (ST14). For example, the processor 21 classifies the notes inspected by the inspection unit 34 as a rejected note, a good note, or a damaged note by determining the authenticity and fitness of the note based on the inspection results by the inspection unit 34. The processor 21 decides the destination of each note according to the classification based on the inspection results.

[0073] The processor 21 counts the number of bills for each bill type and classification determined based on the inspection results. These count values ​​are notified to the management device 13 by the processor 21 via the communication interface 23.

[0074] When the sheet inspected by the inspection unit 34 is a rejected sheet (ST15, YES), the processor 21 conveys the sheet to a rejected sheet cassette 35 serving as a rejected sheet stacking unit (ST18). The rejected sheets stacked in the rejected sheet cassette 35 are processed by the rejected sheet processing machine 12. When the inspection unit 34 determines that the note inspected is a genuine note (ST15, NO), the processor 21 determines whether the note is a good note or a damaged note (ST16). For example, the processor 21 determines whether the note that is determined to be a genuine note is a good note that can be recirculated, or a damaged note that cannot be recirculated.

[0075] If the inspection unit 34 determines that the banknote inspected is a genuine banknote (ST16, YES), the processor 21 transports the banknote to the genuine banknote stacking unit 37 (ST17). The genuine banknote stacking unit 37 stacks the banknotes (genuine banknotes) supplied thereto, and supplies the banknotes in predetermined numbers to the sealing unit 38. The sealing unit 38 seals the genuine banknotes in predetermined numbers. The banknotes sealed in the sealing unit 38 are discharged from the discharge port 42 by the discharge unit 41.

[0076] When the inspection unit 34 determines that the sheet inspected is a damaged sheet (ST16, NO), the processor 21 conveys the sheet to the cutting unit 36 ​​(ST19). The cutting unit 36 ​​accepts the damaged sheet supplied from the inspection unit 34 as a sheet to be cut. When the cutting unit 36 ​​receives the sheet to be cut, it cuts the sheet by operating the blade 52 with the motor 51.

[0077] Furthermore, when processor 21 cuts a ticket in cutting unit 36, processor 21 determines whether the ticket is a taped ticket or not (ST20). For example, processor 21 determines whether the ticket is a taped ticket to which adhesive tape is affixed based on the thickness of the ticket inspected by inspection unit 34. If processor 21 determines that the ticket to be cut in cutting unit 36 ​​is not a taped ticket (ST20, NO), processor 21 proceeds to processing the next ticket.

[0078] When it is determined that the ticket to be cut by the cutting unit 36 ​​is a taped ticket (ST20, YES), the processor 21 counts the ticket as a taped ticket (ST21). After counting the tickets to be cut by the cutting unit 36 ​​as taped tickets, the processor 21 determines whether the count value of the taped tickets exceeds a threshold value (ST22). If the count value of the taped tickets exceeds the threshold value (ST22, YES), the processor 21 stops the operation of the inspection machine 11 (ST23) and performs self-maintenance using the oiling mechanism 54 and the cleaning ticket supply mechanism 55 (ST44, ST45).

[0079] That is, after stopping each drive mechanism in the inspection machine 11, the processor 21 causes the oiling mechanism 54 to apply lubricating oil to the blade 52 in the cutting unit 36, and causes the motor 51 to operate (idle) the blade 52 (ST44). As a result, the cutting unit 36 ​​performs self-maintenance to reduce the load caused by adhesive matter adhering to the blade 52 by idling while supplying lubricating oil from the oiling mechanism 54.

[0080] Furthermore, the processor 21 causes the cutting unit 36 ​​to cut the cleaning tickets supplied by the cleaning ticket supply mechanism 55 (ST45). The cleaning tickets are, for example, media of the same size as the tickets to be processed (cut), and adhesive matter adhering to the blades can be removed when the cleaning tickets are cut. This allows the cutting unit 36 ​​to perform self-maintenance by cutting the cleaning tickets to remove adhesive matter adhering to the blades 52. It should be noted that either the self-maintenance in ST44 or the self-maintenance in ST45 may be executed.

[0081] When the maintenance (self-maintenance) using the oiling mechanism 54 and the cleaning ticket supplying mechanism 55 is completed, the processor 21 clears the counter of the taping tickets (ST26) and resumes operation.

[0082] According to the third operation example described above, the inspection machine counts the number of taped tickets cut by the cutting unit. When the number of taped tickets cut by the cutting unit exceeds a predetermined threshold, the inspection machine stops operation and performs self-maintenance on the cutting unit. The inspection machine performs self-maintenance by running the cutting unit idle while supplying oil from an oiling mechanism and cutting cleaning tickets. When self-maintenance is completed, the count value of the taped tickets is cleared and operation is resumed.

[0083] This allows maintenance of the cutting unit to be performed without manual intervention according to the number of taped tickets to be cut, preventing the machine from stopping due to an error in the cutting unit. In addition, because maintenance can be performed automatically before an error in the cutting unit causes the inspection machine to stop, the frequency of blade replacement in the cutting unit can be reduced.

[0084] Next, a fourth operation example of the inspection machine 11 as the sheet processing apparatus according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining a fourth operation example of the inspection machine 11 as the paper sheet processing apparatus according to the embodiment. In the inspection machine 11, the processor 21 of the control unit 20 starts operation in response to an instruction from the operator to start operation via the operation unit 25 (ST10). After starting operation, the processor 21 checks whether or not there is a ticket to be processed (ST11). For example, the processor 21 determines that there is a ticket until the processing of the ticket inserted into the insertion slot 30 is completed, and determines that there is no ticket when the processing of the ticket inserted into the insertion slot 30 is completed. If it determines that there is no ticket (ST11, YES), the processor 21 stops the operation of the inspection machine 11 (ST12).

[0085] If it is determined that a ticket is present (ST11, NO), processor 21 removes and transports the ticket inserted into the slot (ST13). For example, processor 21 supplies the tickets inserted into slot 30 one by one from supply unit 33 to inspection unit 34. Inspection unit 34 inspects the tickets supplied from supply unit 33 and supplies the inspection results to processor 21. For example, inspection unit 34 supplies data indicating various physical characteristics detected by various sensors from the ticket to be inspected to processor 21 as the inspection results.

[0086] The processor 21 determines the type of the inspected note based on the inspection results obtained from the inspection unit 34, and decides whether the note is a rejected note, a good note, or a damaged note (ST14). For example, the processor 21 classifies the notes inspected by the inspection unit 34 as a rejected note, a good note, or a damaged note by determining the authenticity and fitness of the note based on the inspection results by the inspection unit 34. The processor 21 decides the destination of each note according to the classification based on the inspection results.

[0087] The processor 21 counts the number of bills for each bill type and classification determined based on the inspection results. These count values ​​are notified to the management device 13 by the processor 21 via the communication interface 23.

[0088] When the processor 21 determines that the sheet inspected by the inspection unit 34 is a rejected sheet (ST15, YES), it transports the sheet to a rejected sheet cassette 35 which serves as a rejected sheet stacking unit (ST18). For example, the processor 21 rejects sheets that have been determined to be non-genuine (counterfeit) and sheets whose genuineness or fitness cannot be determined due to skew (poor conveying posture) or double picking. The rejected sheets stacked in the rejected sheet cassette 35 are processed by the rejected sheet processor 12.

[0089] When the inspection unit 34 determines that the note inspected is a genuine note (ST15, NO), the processor 21 determines whether the note is a good note or a damaged note (ST16). For example, the processor 21 determines whether the note that is determined to be a genuine note is a good note that can be recirculated, or a damaged note that cannot be recirculated.

[0090] If the inspection unit 34 determines that the banknote inspected is a genuine banknote (ST16, YES), the processor 21 transports the banknote to the genuine banknote stacking unit 37 (ST17). The genuine banknote stacking unit 37 stacks the banknotes (genuine banknotes) supplied thereto, and supplies the banknotes in predetermined numbers to the sealing unit 38. The sealing unit 38 seals the genuine banknotes in predetermined numbers. The banknotes sealed in the sealing unit 38 are discharged from the discharge port 42 by the discharge unit 41.

[0091] When the inspection unit 34 determines that the sheet inspected is a damaged sheet (ST16, NO), the processor 21 conveys the sheet to the cutting unit 36 ​​(ST19). The cutting unit 36 ​​accepts the damaged sheet supplied from the inspection unit 34 as a sheet to be cut. When the cutting unit 36 ​​receives the sheet to be cut, it cuts the sheet by operating the blade 52 with the motor 51.

[0092] Furthermore, when the paper sheet is cut by the cutting unit 36, the processor 21 detects a load value indicating the magnitude of the load applied to the motor 51 that operates the blade 52 by the load detector 53 (ST211). The load detector 53 detects a current value as a load value indicating the load applied to the motor 51 that operates the blade 52.

[0093] The processor 21 determines whether the load value detected by the load detector 53 exceeds a predetermined upper limit value (threshold value for the load value) (ST32). If it is determined that the load value does not exceed the upper limit value (ST32, NO), the processor 21 performs processing for the next ticket. If it is determined that the load value exceeds a predetermined upper limit value (ST32, YES), the processor 21 stops operation of the inspection machine 11 (ST23) and performs self-maintenance using an oiling mechanism 54 and a cleaning ticket supply mechanism 55 as maintenance mechanisms.

[0094] That is, after stopping each drive mechanism in the inspection machine 11, the processor 21 causes the oiling mechanism 54 to apply lubricating oil to the blade 52 in the cutting unit 36, and causes the motor 51 to operate (idle) the blade 52 (ST54). As a result, the cutting unit 36 ​​performs self-maintenance to reduce the load caused by adhesive matter adhering to the blade 52 by idling while supplying lubricating oil from the oiling mechanism 54.

[0095] Furthermore, the processor 21 causes the cutting unit 36 ​​to cut the cleaning tickets supplied by the cleaning ticket supply mechanism 55 (ST55). As a result, the cutting unit 36 ​​performs self-maintenance by cutting the cleaning tickets to remove sticky matter adhering to the blade 52. It should be noted that either the self-maintenance in ST54 or the self-maintenance in ST55 may be executed.

[0096] When maintenance (self-maintenance) using the oiling mechanism 54 and the cleaning ticket supply mechanism 55 is completed, the processor 21 operates the blade 52 by the motor 51 and detects a load value indicating the magnitude of the load applied to the motor 51 by the load detector 53. When the load value is detected by the load detector 53, the processor 21 determines whether the load value detected by the load detector 53 is equal to or less than a standard value (ST56). Here, the standard value is a reference value for resuming operation after maintenance. The standard value is set to a value smaller than the threshold value for the load value.

[0097] If the load value detected by the load detector 53 is equal to or less than the standard value (ST56, YES), the processor 21 determines that the load on the motor 51 has been reduced by self-maintenance, and resumes operation.

[0098] If the load value detected by the load detector 53 is not equal to or less than the standard value (ST56, NO), the processor 21 determines that the load on the motor 51 does not reach the standard value for resuming operation even if self-maintenance is performed, and displays a message requesting maintenance work by an operator on the display unit 24 (ST57). In this case, the processor 21 keeps the operation of the inspection machine 11 stopped and waits for the completion of the maintenance work by the operator.

[0099] According to the fourth operation example described above, when the load on the motor that operates the blade that cuts the tickets exceeds a threshold, the inspection machine stops operation and performs self-maintenance on the cutting unit. The inspection machine performs self-maintenance by running the cutting unit idle while supplying oil from the oiling mechanism, or by cutting cleaning tickets. After self-maintenance is completed, the inspection machine resumes operation if the load value detected by operating the blade again with the motor is equal to or less than the standard value.

[0100] As a result, the inspection machine according to the fourth operation example can perform maintenance of the cutting unit without human intervention according to the load on the motor that operates the blade used for cutting, and can prevent the machine from stopping due to an error in the cutting unit. Also, the inspection machine according to the fourth operation example can automatically perform maintenance before the inspection machine stops due to an error in the cutting unit, thereby reducing the frequency of occurrence of blade replacement in the cutting unit. Furthermore, the inspection machine according to the fourth operation example can resume operation after confirming that the load value is equal to or less than the standard value after self-maintenance, and can also provide a guide to encourage maintenance to an operator if self-maintenance cannot eliminate the excessive load on the motor.

[0101] Next, a fifth operation example of the inspection machine 11 as the sheet processing apparatus according to the embodiment will be described. When the fifth operation example is executed, the inspection machine 11 is configured to include two cutting units 36A and 36B as the cutting unit 36. FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a configuration example in which the inspection machine 11 for carrying out the fifth operation example is provided with two cutting units 36A and 36B. The configuration shown in Fig. 9 is a configuration in which the cutting unit 36 ​​in the configuration shown in Fig. 2 is replaced with a first cutting unit 36A and a second cutting unit 36B. The first cutting unit 36A and the second cutting unit 36B each have the configuration shown in Fig. 6. In the inspection machine 11 configured as shown in Fig. 9, the processor 21 of the control unit 20 sets either the first cutting unit 36A or the second cutting unit 36B as the cutting unit that actually performs the cutting process.

[0102] FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining a fifth operation example of the inspection machine 11 as the sheet processing apparatus according to the embodiment. In the inspection machine 11, the processor 21 of the control unit 20 starts operation in response to an instruction to start operation from the operator via the operation unit 25 (ST10). After starting operation, the processor 21 checks whether or not there is a sheet to be processed (ST11). If it is determined that there is no sheet (ST11, YES), the processor 21 stops operation of the inspection machine 11 (ST12).

[0103] If it is determined that a ticket is present (ST11, NO), processor 21 removes and transports the ticket inserted into the slot (ST13). For example, processor 21 supplies the tickets inserted into slot 30 one by one from supply unit 33 to inspection unit 34. Inspection unit 34 inspects the tickets supplied from supply unit 33 and supplies the inspection results to processor 21. Inspection unit 34 supplies data indicating various physical characteristics detected by various sensors from the ticket to be inspected to processor 21 as the inspection results.

[0104] The processor 21 determines the type of the inspected note based on the inspection results obtained from the inspection unit 34, and decides whether the note is a rejected note, a good note, or a damaged note (ST14). For example, the processor 21 classifies the notes inspected by the inspection unit 34 as a rejected note, a good note, or a damaged note by determining the authenticity and fitness of the note based on the inspection results by the inspection unit 34. The processor 21 decides the destination of each note according to the classification based on the inspection results.

[0105] The processor 21 counts the number of bills for each bill type and classification determined based on the inspection results by the inspection unit 34. These count values ​​are notified to the management device 13 by the processor 21 via the communication interface 23.

[0106] When the processor 21 determines that the sheet inspected by the inspection unit 34 is a rejected sheet (ST15, YES), the processor 21 conveys the sheet to a rejected sheet cassette 35 serving as a rejected sheet stacking unit (ST18). The rejected sheets stacked in the rejected sheet cassette 35 are processed by the rejected sheet processing machine 12. When the note inspected by the inspection unit 34 is determined to be genuine (ST15, NO), the processor 21 determines whether the note is a valid note or a damaged note (ST16). For example, the processor 21 determines whether the note that is determined to be genuine is a valid note or a damaged note depending on whether the note is recirculatable.

[0107] If the inspected bills are determined to be genuine bills (ST16, YES), the processor 21 transports the bills to the genuine bill stacking unit 37 (ST17). The genuine bill stacking unit 37 stacks the bills (genuine bills) transported from the inspection unit 34, and supplies them to the sealing unit 38 in predetermined numbers. The sealing unit 38 seals the genuine bills in predetermined numbers. The bills sealed by the sealing unit 38 are discharged from the discharge port 42 by the discharge unit 41.

[0108] When the inspection unit 34 judges that the sheet inspected is an unfit sheet (ST16, NO), the processor 21 transports the sheet to one of the two cutting units 36A and 36B that is set as the destination of the unfit sheet (the cutting unit that is set as the cutting unit that performs the cutting process) (ST19). Here, as an example, it is assumed that the first cutting unit 36A is set as the destination of the unfit sheet (the cutting unit that performs the cutting process) and the second cutting unit 36B is set to be on standby. In this case, the first cutting unit 36A that performs the cutting process (the cutting unit on the operating side) accepts the sheet transported from the inspection unit 34 as an unfit sheet (cut sheet) to be cut. When a cut sheet is supplied, the cutting control unit 50 of the first cutting unit 36A cuts the cut sheet by operating the blade 52 with the motor 51.

[0109] Furthermore, when cutting a ticket, the first cutting unit 34A on the operating side detects a load value indicating the magnitude of the load applied to the motor 51 that operates the blade 52 by the load detector 53. The load detector 53 detects a current value as a load value indicating the load applied to the motor 51 that operates the blade 52. The current value as a load value detected by the load detector 53 is notified to the processor 21 of the control unit 20 via the cutting control unit 50.

[0110] Processor 21 determines whether the load value detected by load detector 53 exceeds a predetermined upper limit value (threshold value for load value) (ST62). If it is determined that the load value does not exceed the upper limit value (ST62, NO), processor 21 performs processing for the next ticket. If it is determined that the load value in the operating cutting section (here, the first cutting section 36A) exceeds a predetermined upper limit value (ST62, YES), the processor 21 temporarily stops operation of the inspection machine 11 (ST63) and determines whether it is possible to switch to the standby cutting section (here, the second cutting section 36B) (ST64).

[0111] For example, processor 21 determines whether or not the cutting unit can be switched depending on whether second cutting unit 36B, which is the standby cutting unit, is available. If the standby cutting unit is available, processor 21 determines that the cutting unit can be switched. If the standby cutting unit is not available, processor 21 determines that the cutting unit cannot be switched.

[0112] When it is determined that the cutting unit cannot be switched (ST64, NO), the processor 21 displays on the display unit 24 that an error has occurred in the cutting unit (first cutting unit and second cutting unit) (ST65), and ends the series of processes. Furthermore, when it is determined that the cutting unit cannot be switched, the processor 21 may display on the display unit 24 a guide to maintenance of the first cutting unit and the second cutting unit.

[0113] When the standby cutting unit (e.g., the second cutting unit) is unavailable, the processor 21 may execute processing including self-maintenance as shown in ST54 to ST57 in Fig. 8 for the operating cutting unit (e.g., the first cutting unit) whose load value has exceeded a predetermined upper limit. In this case, the processor 21 may resume operation with the operating cutting unit (the first cutting unit) as the first cutting unit after confirming that the load value of the operating cutting unit (the first cutting unit) has become equal to or lower than the standard value.

[0114] When it is determined that switching of the cutting unit is possible (ST64, YES), the processor 21 switches the destination of the unfit bills from the inspection unit 34 to the standby cutting unit (ST66). As a result, the processor 21 switches the cutting unit that actually performs the cutting process to the standby cutting unit. For example, when the load value of the first cutting unit 36A exceeds a predetermined threshold, the processor 21 switches the cutting unit that performs the cutting process (the operating cutting unit) to the second cutting unit 36B, and switches the first cutting unit 36A to the standby cutting unit.

[0115] The processor 21 also switches (interchanges) the cutting unit on the operating side and the cutting unit on the standby side, and performs self-maintenance on the cutting unit whose load value exceeds a predetermined threshold (the cutting unit that has become the standby cutting unit) (ST71, ST72). Self-maintenance on the standby cutting unit may be performed in parallel even when the inspection machine 11 is operating using the operating cutting unit. For example, when the load value of the first cutting unit 36A exceeds a predetermined threshold, the processor operates the second cutting unit 36B and performs self-maintenance on the standby first cutting unit 36A.

[0116] The processor 21 performs self-maintenance for the standby cutting unit (for example, the first cutting unit 36A) by causing the oiling mechanism 54 to apply lubricating oil to the cutting unit and running the unit idle (ST71), and causes the cleaning ticket supply mechanism 55 to cut the cleaning tickets to be supplied (ST72). Note that either the process of ST71 or the process of ST72 may be executed.

[0117] When self-maintenance of the first cutting unit 36A, which is the standby cutting unit, is completed, the processor 21 causes the motor 51 in the first cutting unit 36A to operate the blade 52, and detects a load value indicating the magnitude of the load on the motor 51, using the load detector 53. When the load value is detected by the load detector 53, the processor 21 determines whether the load value detected by the load detector 53 is equal to or less than a standard value (ST73). Here, the standard value is a reference value for resuming operation after maintenance, and is set to a value smaller than the threshold value for the load value.

[0118] When the load value detected by the load detector 53 is equal to or less than the standard value (ST73, YES), the processor 21 stores information indicating that the first cutting unit 36A, which is the standby cutting unit, is in a usable state in the memory 22 (ST74). As a result, the first cutting unit 36A, which has become the standby cutting unit, is in a usable state and waits while the second cutting unit 36B is operating.

[0119] Furthermore, if the load value detected by the load detector 53 is not equal to or less than the standard value (ST73, NO), the processor 21 displays on the display unit 24 a notice that the first cutting unit 36A that has become the standby cutting unit is not in use (or a notice that the standby cutting unit requires maintenance work by an operator) (ST75). That is, even if the standby cutting unit (first cutting unit 36A) is not in use, the inspection machine 11 continues operation by operating the operating cutting unit (second cutting unit 36B) while displaying a notice that the standby cutting unit (first cutting unit 36A) is not in use.

[0120] In the fifth operation example described above, in ST62, when the load value in the working cutting section exceeds an upper limit value, the working cutting section and the standby cutting section are switched over. However, as in ST20-22 described above, the working cutting section and the standby cutting section may be switched over depending on the number of table-pasted tickets cut by the working cutting section.

[0121] According to the fifth operation example described above, the inspection machine has two cutting units that are set as either an operating cutting unit or a standby cutting unit. When the load on the motor that drives the blade that cuts the tickets in the operating cutting unit exceeds a threshold (or when the number of cut table-pasted tickets exceeds a threshold), the inspection machine switches between the operating cutting unit and the standby cutting unit. The inspection machine measures operation using the cutting unit that is set as the operating cutting unit, and performs self-maintenance on the cutting unit that is set as the standby cutting unit.

[0122] As a result, the inspection machine according to the fifth operation example can perform maintenance of the cutting unit without human intervention according to the load on the motor that operates the blade used for cutting, and can prevent the machine from stopping due to an error in the cutting unit. Also, the inspection machine according to the fourth operation example can automatically perform maintenance before the inspection machine stops due to an error in the cutting unit, and can reduce the frequency of occurrence of blade replacement in the cutting unit. Furthermore, the inspection machine according to the fifth operation example can resume operation after confirming that the load value is equal to or less than the standard value after self-maintenance, and can also provide a guide to encourage an operator to perform maintenance if self-maintenance cannot eliminate the excessive load on the motor.

[0123] The functions described in the above embodiments can be realized not only by using hardware but also by loading a program describing each function into a computer using software. Also, each function may be realized by selecting either software or hardware as appropriate.

[0124] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, and are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 1...paper sheet processing system, 11 (11A, 11B)...inspection machine (paper sheet processing device), 12...rejected ticket processing machine (paper sheet processing device), 13...management device, 20...control unit, 21...processor, 22...memory, 23...communication interface, 24...display unit, 25...operation unit, 34...inspection unit, 36...cutting unit (36A...first cutting unit, 36B...second cutting unit).

Claims

1. An inspection unit that detects physical characteristics of paper sheets using a plurality of sensors including a sensor that detects thickness; a cutting unit that cuts the paper sheets classified as the paper sheets to be cut based on the detection result by the inspection unit; a processor that determines whether or not adhesive tape is attached to the paper sheets classified as the paper sheets to be cut based on the thickness inspected by the inspection unit, counts the number of paper sheets with adhesive tape attached cut by the cutting unit, and requests maintenance of the cutting unit when the count value exceeds a threshold value; A paper sheet processing apparatus having the same.

2. Further, the display unit is provided. When the count value exceeds a threshold value, the processor displays a maintenance guide for the cutting unit on the display unit. The paper sheet processing apparatus according to claim 1 .

3. Further, a maintenance mechanism for performing maintenance on the cutting unit is provided, When the count value exceeds a threshold value, the processor performs maintenance on the cutting unit using the maintenance mechanism. The paper sheet processing apparatus according to claim 1 .

4. The processor further corrects the count value according to the number of sheets cut by the cutting unit other than sheets having adhesive tape attached thereto. The paper sheet processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. An inspection unit that detects physical characteristics of the paper sheet; a first cutting unit that cuts the paper sheets that are classified as paper sheets to be cut based on the detection result by the inspection unit; A second cutting unit that cuts paper sheets in place of the first cutting unit; a load detector that detects a load value indicating a magnitude of a load applied when the first cutting unit is driven; a processor that switches a cutting unit that cuts the paper sheets classified as the target for cutting from the first cutting unit to the second cutting unit when a load value detected by the load detector exceeds an upper limit value; A paper sheet processing apparatus having the same.

6. A memory for storing information indicating a state of the second cutting unit, When the load value detected by the load detector exceeds an upper limit value, if it is stored in the memory that the second cutting unit is in a state where cutting is possible, the processor switches the cutting unit that cuts the paper sheets classified as the target for cutting from the first cutting unit to the second cutting unit. The paper sheet processing apparatus according to claim 5 .

7. Further, the display unit is provided. When the load value detected by the load detector exceeds an upper limit value, if it is stored in the memory that the second cutting unit is not in a state where cutting is possible, the processor displays an error of the first cutting unit and the second cutting unit on the display unit. The paper sheet processing apparatus according to claim 6 .

8. Further, a maintenance mechanism for performing maintenance on the first cutting unit is provided, the processor switches a cutting unit that cuts the paper sheets classified as the target for cutting from the first cutting unit to the second cutting unit, and then performs maintenance on the first cutting unit using the maintenance mechanism. The paper sheet processing apparatus according to claim 5 .

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