Media processing device, expansion device, activation system, and media processing method

Abstract

In the present invention, a control unit receives input of activation information that can be authenticated using device information unique to a medium processing device. The control unit determines whether to activate an identification unit on the basis of the activation information. If the identification unit is activated, the control unit causes a conveyance unit to convey a medium to the identification unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a media processing device, an expansion device, an activation system, and a media processing method.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for verifying a device so that a generally available IP block is not illegally diverted to other devices and is used only by a predetermined device, and activating the IP block when the verification is successful.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In a media processing device such as a currency discriminator, there is a device that activates functions by reading an IC chip for permission to use. However, due to illegal copying of the IC chip, etc., there is a possibility that the currency discriminator may be used without a license. An object of the present invention is to provide a media processing device, an expansion device, an activation system, and a media processing method that can appropriately limit functions that can be used according to a license. [[ID=??]]

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] It seems there is a tag issue in the original text where the tag ID 38 has no corresponding content in the English translation. If this is an error in the original, please correct it for a more accurate translation. Also, the tag ID ?? in the English translation is likely a mistake and should be corrected to match the original numbering system.According to the first embodiment, the media processing device is a media processing device that performs predetermined processing on a medium that has been introduced, and comprises a transport unit that transports the introduced medium along a transport path, an identification unit provided on the transport path and identifying the transported medium, and a control unit, wherein the control unit receives input of activation information that can be authenticated using device information unique to the media processing device, determines whether or not to activate the identification unit based on the activation information, and causes the transport unit to transport the medium to the identification unit if at least the identification unit is to be activated.

[0006] According to the second embodiment, the activation information of the media processing device according to the first embodiment specifies the type of media to be identified by the identification unit, and when the type of media identified by the identification unit is different from the type indicated by the activation information, the transport unit discharges the media.

[0007] According to the third aspect, the medium of the medium processing apparatus according to the second aspect is cash currency, the activation information specifies the currency unit of the medium to be identified by the identification unit and whether or not to allow the identification of multiple denominations of currency units simultaneously, and the control unit, when the activation information allows the identification of multiple denominations of currency units simultaneously, causes the transport unit to discharge the medium if the currency unit of the medium identified by the identification unit is different from the type indicated by the activation information. If the activation information does not permit the simultaneous identification of multiple denominations of currency units, the system accepts the designation of one currency unit to be identified from the currency units specified in the activation information, and if the currency unit of the medium identified by the identification unit is different from the designated one currency unit, the system causes the transport unit to discharge the medium.

[0008] According to the fourth aspect, the media processing device according to any of the first to third aspects includes a connection unit that connects to an expansion device that performs processing on the media, the activation information defines whether or not processing by the expansion device is permitted, and the control unit determines whether or not processing is permitted for the connected expansion device based on the activation information.

[0009] According to the fifth aspect, the activation information of the media processing device according to the fourth aspect specifies the number of expansion devices that are permitted to process, and the control unit determines whether or not to process each connected expansion device based on the activation information.

[0010] According to the sixth aspect, the device information of the media processing apparatus according to any of the first to fifth aspects is the ID of the processor mounted in the control unit.

[0011] According to the seventh aspect, the control unit of the media processing apparatus according to any of the first to sixth aspects activates the identification unit regardless of the activation information for a predetermined trial period, and causes the transport unit to transport the medium to the identification unit.

[0012] According to the eighth aspect, the activation system comprises a media processing device according to any of the first to seventh aspects, and a generation device that generates authenticationable activation information using device information specific to the media processing device.

[0013] According to the ninth aspect, the media processing method is a media processing device using a media processing device comprising a transport unit that transports an input medium along a transport path, an identification unit provided on the transport path that identifies the transported medium, and a control unit which is a computer, wherein the control unit receives input of activation information that can be authenticated using device information unique to the media processing device, the control unit determines whether or not to activate the identification unit based on the activation information, and the control unit causes the transport unit to transport the medium to the identification unit if it activates the identification unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to the above embodiment, the media processing device can appropriately restrict the functions available in accordance with the license. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0015] [Figure 1]It is a diagram showing the configuration of an activation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing a configuration example of a media processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a counting apparatus according to the first embodiment as seen from the front. [Figure 4] It is a schematic cross-sectional view of an integration apparatus which is one of the expansion apparatuses according to the first embodiment as seen from the front. [Figure 5] It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a bundling apparatus which is one of the expansion apparatuses according to the first embodiment as seen from the front. [Figure 6] It is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of a license generation apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing an example of data recorded in a database according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] It is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of a control unit of a counting apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a flowchart (part 1) showing an activation procedure by an activation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a flowchart (part 2) showing an activation procedure by an activation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a flowchart showing a license check procedure by a media processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen of a media processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of a computer according to at least one embodiment.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0016] 〈First Embodiment〉 Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an activation system 1 according to the first embodiment. The activation system 1 according to the first embodiment comprises a media processing device 10 and a license generation device 70.

[0017] The media processing device 10 has one or more functions, such as identifying media like paper sheets or coins and accumulating them in predetermined quantities, and sealing the accumulated media like paper sheets or coins in predetermined quantities. The media processing device 10 is composed of one or more units having these functions. The license generation device 70 generates license data (activation information) to activate the media processing device 10. The license data is recorded by the license generation device 70 on a recording medium 90 such as flash memory and read by the media processing device 10.

[0018] 《Media Processing Device 10》 Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of the media processing apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment. The media processing device 10 performs a series of intended functions by connecting one or more expansion devices to the counting device 20, which is the main unit of the device. An expansion device is a device that is connected to the counting device 20, which is the base unit, or to another expansion device, and performs predetermined processing on the media B that is received from the connected device.

[0019] The media processing device 10 shown in Figure 2 comprises a counting device 20, an expansion device called an accumulation device 30, and a terminal pocket 50. The media processing device 10 shown in Figure 2 classifies the inserted media B by type (for example, by denomination) and accumulates the media B by type. Denomination refers to the face value of cash currency (e.g., 10,000 yen note, 5,000 yen note, 2,000 yen note, 1,000 yen note). In the first embodiment, the media B inserted into the receiving section 21 is a banknote that has a rectangular shape in plan view. The media processing device 10 can process media B relating to multiple currency units (currency types). For example, the media processing device 10 can process yen, US dollars, euros, and Chinese yuan.

[0020] The expansion device is not limited to the accumulating device 30, but may be a device that performs other functions, such as a bundling device 40 for bundling the media B. In other embodiments, the media processing device 10 may not include an expansion device. In other embodiments, the counting device 20 may constitute the media processing device 10 on its own. For example, if the media processing device 10 consists of a counting device 20 and a terminal pocket 50, the counting device 20 can determine the authenticity of the media B, transfer the media B to the terminal pocket 50 if it is a genuine ticket, and reject the media B if it is a counterfeit ticket. In the first embodiment, a case in which the accumulating device 30 and the bundling device 40 can be used as the expansion device will be described.

[0021] In the media processing device 10, the operation of the expansion device is controlled by the counting device 20, and in the control system of the media processing device 10, the counting device 20 is positioned higher and the expansion device is positioned lower. In the media processing device 10, an operator (not shown) operates the operation display unit 25 provided on the counting device 20 to give instructions for operation, and a predetermined operation is performed in accordance with the operation instructions.

[0022] In the following description, the side of the media processing device 10 with the operation display unit 25 (the front side of the page in Figure 1) is defined as the front or front panel, and the side opposite the operation display unit 25 (the back side of the page in Figure 1) is defined as the back or rear panel. Also, when viewing the media processing device 10 from the front, the side with the counting device 20 is defined as the right side (right side of the page in Figure 1), and when viewing the media processing device 10 from the front, the side with the multiple expansion devices is defined as the left side (left side of the page in Figure 1). Also, when viewing the media processing device 10 from the front, the side with the reject unit 24 (upper side of the page in Figure 1) is defined as the upper side, and when viewing the media processing device 10 from the front, the side with the receiving unit 21 (lower side of the page in Figure 1) is defined as the lower side.

[0023] Counting device 20 Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the counting device 20 according to the first embodiment, viewed from the front. The counting device 20 according to the first embodiment includes a receiving unit 21, a transport unit 22, an identification unit 23, a reject unit 24, an operation display unit 25, a downstream connecting unit 26 (connection unit), a control unit 27, and a recording medium interface 28. The receiving unit 21 accepts the input of media B before processing. The transport unit 22 transports the input media B along a transport path inside the counting device 20. The identification unit 23 identifies the input media B. The reject unit 24 holds the rejected media B so that it can be recovered from the outside. The operation display unit 25 is a man-machine interface that accepts operation of the media processing device 10 by an operator. The downstream connection unit 26 has a mechanism for connecting to an expansion device or a terminal pocket 50. The control unit 27 is a computer that performs overall control of the media processing device 10. The recording medium interface 28 is a hardware interface that accepts the connection of a recording medium 90. The recording medium interface 28 may be, for example, a USB interface.

[0024] The starting point of the transport path of the transport unit 22 is connected to the receiving unit 21. The transport path passes through the identification unit 23 and branches downstream of the identification unit 23. The first branch of the transport path is connected to the reject unit 24. The second branch of the transport path is connected to the downstream connecting unit 26.

[0025] The identification unit 23 includes an optical sensor (not shown) having a plurality of light-emitting elements that emit light of different wavelengths and a light-receiving element that receives the light emitted from these light-emitting elements, and an imaging device (not shown) that acquires image information of the medium B when light of a predetermined frequency is emitted from the light-emitting elements to the medium B being transported along the transport path. The identification unit 23 emits visible light and infrared light from the plurality of light-emitting elements to the transported medium B. The identification unit 23 acquires image data of the medium B when it is emitted with visible light and when it is emitted with infrared light using the imaging device, and compares this acquired image data with reference image data that has been prepared in advance for each type of medium B (currency unit, denomination), and identifies the type of reference image data that can be determined to match as the type of medium B. In addition to visible light and infrared light, the identification unit 23 may also perform imaging by emitting ultraviolet light.

[0026] Paper sheets whose type (denomination) can be identified by the existence of matching reference image data are identified as medium B with no identification errors. In addition to determining the type of medium B, the identification unit 23 may also perform authenticity determination and correct / defect determination. These medium B with no identification errors are transported to the downstream connecting unit 26, which will be described later, and handed over to the downstream expansion device. On the other hand, paper sheets whose type cannot be determined because no matching reference image data exists are identified as medium B with identification errors. These medium B with identification errors are transported to the reject unit 24.

[0027] With this configuration, the counting device 20 operates, for example, as follows: When an operator places media B into the receiving unit 21, the control unit 27 instructs the transport unit 22 to transport the placed media B one by one into the counting device 20. The media B transported inside is identified by the identification unit 23. The control unit 27 decides whether to transport the media B to the reject unit 24 or to a subsequent expansion device, according to the identification result of the identification unit 23. The control unit 27 controls the transport unit 22 according to the decision, transporting the media B to the reject unit 24 or the subsequent connection unit 26. If the control unit 27 transports the media B to the subsequent connection unit 26, it transmits the identification result of the media B to the subsequent expansion device. The control unit 27 and the multiple subsequent devices are connected via the subsequent connection unit 26 or wirelessly.

[0028] 《Integration device 30》 Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an integration device 30, which is one of the expansion devices according to the first embodiment, as seen from the front. The stacking device 30 includes a front-stage connecting section 31, a rear-stage connecting section 32, a transport section 33, one or more stacking sections 34, a control section 35, and a status display section 36 (see Figure 2).

[0029] The front-stage connecting section 31 has a mechanism for connecting to the counting device 20 or other expansion devices. The rear-stage connecting section 32 has a mechanism for connecting to other expansion devices or the terminal pocket 50. The transport section 33 transports the medium B along a transport path inside the accumulating device 30. The accumulating section 34 holds the transported medium B. The control unit 35 is a computer that controls the accumulating device 30. The status display section 36 is a display device that displays the status, such as the number of medium B sheets accumulated in the accumulating space of the accumulating section 34.

[0030] The starting point of the transport path of the transport unit 33 is connected to the pre-connection unit 31. The transport path branches after the pre-connection unit 31. The first branch of the transport path is connected to the post-connection unit 32. The second branch of the transport path is connected to the accumulation unit 34.

[0031] With this configuration, the accumulating device 30 operates as follows, for example: Medium B is transported from the preceding device (e.g., the counting device 20) to the preceding connecting unit 31. At this time, the control unit 35 receives an instruction from the counting device 20 to process medium B. If the instruction is an instruction to accumulate medium B to the accumulating unit 34, the control unit 35 controls the transport unit 33 to transport medium B to the corresponding accumulating unit 34. If the instruction is a transport instruction to transport medium B to a subsequent device, the control unit 35 controls the transport unit 33 to transport medium B to the subsequent connecting unit 32.

[0032] 《Binding device 40》 Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a bundling device 40, which is one of the expansion devices according to the first embodiment, as seen from the front. The bundling device 40 includes a front connecting section 41, a rear connecting section 42, a conveying section 43, a bundling section 44, and a control section 45.

[0033] The front-stage connecting section 41 has a mechanism for connecting to the counting device 20 or other expansion devices. The rear-stage connecting section 42 has a mechanism for connecting to other expansion devices or the terminal pocket 50. The transport section 43 transports the medium B along the transport path inside the bundling device 40. The bundling section 44 bundles a fixed amount of transported medium B. The control unit 45 is a computer that controls the bundling device 40.

[0034] The starting point of the transport path of the transport unit 43 is connected to the pre-connection unit 41. The transport path branches after the pre-connection unit 41. The first branch of the transport path is connected to the pre-connection unit 42. The second branch of the transport path is connected to the binding unit 44.

[0035] The bundling unit 44 has two alignment and stacking units 441. The alignment and stacking units 441 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction. Each alignment and stacking unit 441 receives the media B unloaded from the transport unit 43 and performs an alignment and stacking process to align a predetermined number of bundling units (specifically 100 sheets) in the vertical direction in a horizontal position and stack them.

[0036] The bundling unit 44 has a stacking and conveying unit 442 located to the right of the alignment and stacking unit 441, which transports the medium B that has been fed out horizontally to the right from the alignment and stacking unit 441 vertically downward in a stacked state. The bundling unit 44 also has a bundling mechanism 443 located below the alignment and stacking unit 441, which bundles the medium B that has been transported and fed out to the left of the machine in a stacked state by the stacking and conveying unit 442 with bundling tape. This makes it possible to create small bundles in which a predetermined number of stacked medium B are bundled together and integrated with bundling tape.

[0037] The bundling section 44 has a retractable external discharge section 444 located below the bundling mechanism 443 to receive the small bundles produced by the bundling mechanism 443. The external discharge section 444 can be retracted from the front of the bundling device 40.

[0038] With this configuration, the bundling device 40 operates as follows, for example: The medium B is transported from the preceding device to the preceding connecting unit 41. At this time, the control unit 45 receives an instruction from the counting device 20 to process the medium B. If the instruction is a bundling instruction for the medium B, the control unit 45 controls the transport unit 43 to transport the medium B to the corresponding bundling unit 44. If the instruction is a transport instruction to transport the medium B to a subsequent device, the control unit 45 controls the transport unit 43 to transport the medium B to the subsequent connecting unit 42.

[0039] License Control The counting device 20 of the media processing device 10 has the ability to identify multiple denominations of multiple currency units, accumulate them by type in the connected stacking device 30, and create small bundles by type in the bundling device 40. On the other hand, users have a desire to use some of the functions of the media processing device 10 at a low cost. Therefore, the activation system 1 according to the first embodiment provides the media processing device 10 at a low cost, but in return, it restricts the functions that the media processing device 10 can perform. Specifically, the activation system 1 generates license data indicating the functions that are permitted to be used for each media processing device 10 using the license generation device 70, and supplies this license data to the media processing device 10, thereby restricting the functions that the media processing device 10 can perform.

[0040] The limitations of the functionality according to the first embodiment are limitations on the currency units and denominations that can be processed, limitations on the simultaneous processing (multi-counting) of medium B of different currency units, and limitations on the types and number of connectable expansion devices.

[0041] License generation device 70 Figure 6 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the license generation device 70 according to the first embodiment. The license generation device 70 includes an ID acquisition unit 71, a license acquisition unit 72, an encryption unit 73, and a recording unit 74.

[0042] The ID acquisition unit 71 reads the device number of the counting device 20, which is the base unit of the media processing device 10, and the CPU-ID of the control unit 27 from the recording medium 90, such as flash memory, connected to an interface (not shown). The device number and the CPU-ID of the control unit 27 are device information unique to the media processing device 10. The data indicating the CPU-ID recorded on the recording medium 90 is encrypted with predetermined key data, and the ID acquisition unit 71 decrypts this data to obtain the CPU-ID.

[0043] The license acquisition unit 72 retrieves the license data for the media processing device 10 corresponding to the read device number from a database 80 that stores the license data for multiple media processing devices 10. The database 80 may be provided by the license generation device 70 or it may be provided externally.

[0044] Figure 7 shows an example of data recorded in the database 80 according to the first embodiment. The database 80 stores, for example, an authorization table 81 and a corresponding currency table 82. The authorization table 81 stores, for each media processing device 10 (counting device 20), the device number of the counting device 20, the contractor, the CPU-ID, the number of aggregation devices 30 that are permitted to connect, the number of bundling devices 40 that are permitted to connect, a multi-counting flag indicating whether multi-counting is permitted, and a serial number reading flag indicating whether serial number reading is permitted. The authorization table 81 uses the device number as its primary key. The CPU-ID is an optional item and is recorded only if it is known. The corresponding currency table 82 stores, for each media processing device 10, the combination of the device number of the counting device 20, the currency unit that is permitted to be identified, and the denomination that is permitted to be identified. The denomination may specify the issuance generation in addition to the face value. The corresponding currency table 82 uses the combination of the device number and the currency unit as its primary key. The license acquisition unit 72 retrieves data associated with the read device number from the authorization table 81 and the corresponding currency table 82, and generates license data.

[0045] The encryption unit 73 encrypts the license data acquired by the license acquisition unit 72 using the CPU-ID acquired by the ID acquisition unit 71 as the key. Encryption is one means of generating data that can be authenticated using device information.

[0046] The recording unit 74 writes encrypted license data to the recording medium 90.

[0047] Control unit 27 of the counting device 20 Figure 8 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the control unit 27 of the counting device 20 according to the first embodiment. The control unit 27 includes an ID acquisition unit 271, an ID recording unit 272, a decoding unit 273, an activation unit 274, a data storage unit 275, a setting unit 276, and an instruction unit 277.

[0048] The ID acquisition unit 271 obtains the CPU-ID by executing a command (for example, the CPUID command) that retrieves the CPU-ID implemented in the CPU of the control unit 27.

[0049] The ID recording unit 272 encrypts the CPU-ID acquired by the ID acquisition unit 271 with predetermined key data and records it on the recording medium 90 connected to the recording medium interface 28.

[0050] The decryption unit 273 attempts to decrypt the encrypted license data using the CPU-ID obtained by the ID acquisition unit 271.

[0051] The activation unit 274 activates the media processing device 10 by writing the decrypted license data to the data storage unit 275.

[0052] The data storage unit 275 stores data in a non-volatile manner. The data storage unit 275 may be, for example, flash memory. At the time of shipment, the data storage unit 275 records elapsed time data that records the time elapsed since shipment. Even when the control unit 27 is not running, the elapsed time is constantly measured by a clock device (not shown) or the like. The elapsed time data may also measure the net operating time of the control unit 27.

[0053] The setting unit 276 configures the usage settings for the counting device 20, the accumulating device 30, and the bundling device 40, which constitute the media processing device 10. Specifically, the setting unit 276 sets the currency unit for the media B to be identified by the counting device 20, sets the currency unit and denomination of the media B to be accumulated in each accumulating unit 34 of the accumulating device 30, or sets the currency unit and denomination of the media B to be bundled in the bundling device 40. The setting data indicating the settings is stored in the data storage unit 275.

[0054] The instruction unit 277 outputs instructions to the transport unit 22, the identification unit 23, and the subsequent expansion device according to the setting data stored in the data storage unit 275.

[0055] 《Activation Procedure》 The following describes the process of Activation System 1. Figure 9 is a flowchart (Part 1) showing the activation procedure by the activation system 1 according to the first embodiment. To activate the media processing device 10, the user connects the recording medium 90 to the recording medium interface 28 of the counting device 20 of the media processing device 10 to be activated. When the control unit 27 detects the recording medium 90, it displays a license menu screen on the operation display unit 25. The license menu screen displays buttons for recording the CPU-ID to the recording medium 90 and for reading license data from the recording medium 90.

[0056] When a user presses a button to record the CPU-ID, the ID acquisition unit 271 of the counting device 20 acquires the CPU-ID of the control unit 27 (step S1). The ID recording unit 272 encrypts the acquired CPU-ID using predetermined key data (step S2). The ID recording unit 272 records the encrypted CPU-ID on the recording medium 90, associating it with the device number of the media processing device 10 (step S3). For example, the ID recording unit 272 names the file containing the encrypted CPU-ID with a name that includes the device number.

[0057] The user removes the recording medium 90 from the counting device 20 and connects it to the license generation device 70. The ID acquisition unit 71 of the license generation device 70 identifies the target device number from the file name of the encrypted CPU-ID (step S4). The ID acquisition unit 71 decrypts the encrypted CPU-ID recorded on the recording medium 90 using predetermined key data (step S5). The license acquisition unit 72 reads the license data related to the device number identified in step S4 from the database 80 (step S6). The encryption unit 73 encrypts the read license data using the CPU-ID obtained in step S5 as key data (step S7). The recording unit 74 records the encrypted license data on the recording medium 90 in association with the device number obtained in step S4 (step S8). For example, the recording unit 74 names the file containing the encrypted license data with a name that includes the device number.

[0058] The user removes the recording medium 90 from the license generation device 70 and reconnects it to the counting device 20. The user then presses the button to read the license data displayed on the license menu screen shown on the operation display unit 25.

[0059] Figure 10 is a flowchart (Part 2) showing the activation procedure by the activation system 1 according to the first embodiment. When a user presses a button to load license data, the activation unit 274 of the counting device 20 determines whether or not license data associated with the device number of the media processing device 10 is recorded on the recording medium 90 (step S9). If license data associated with the device number is not recorded (step S9: NO), the activation unit 274 displays on the operation display unit 25 that the corresponding license data is not recorded (step S10) and terminates the process.

[0060] If license data associated with the device number is recorded (Step S9: YES), the ID acquisition unit 271 acquires the CPU-ID of the control unit 27 (Step S11). The decryption unit 273 attempts to decrypt the license data using the acquired CPU-ID as key data (Step S12). The activation unit 274 verifies the data output by the decryption unit 273 and determines whether decryption was successful or not (Step S13). Since the format of the license data is predetermined, for example, the activation unit 274 determines whether the decrypted data matches that format. If decryption fails (Step S13: NO), the activation unit 274 displays on the operation display unit 25 that the license data is abnormal (Step S14) and terminates the process.

[0061] On the other hand, if decryption is successful (step S13: YES), the activation unit 274 attempts to record the decrypted license data to the data storage unit 275 and determines whether the recording was successful or not (step S15). If recording to the data storage unit 275 fails (step S15: NO), the activation unit 274 displays a screen on the operation display unit 25 prompting the replacement of the circuit board of the counting device 20 (step S16) and terminates the process.

[0062] If recording to the data storage unit 275 is successful (step S15: YES), the activation unit 274 displays on the operation display unit 25 that activation is complete (step S17) and terminates the process.

[0063] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the license check procedure by the media processing device 10 according to the first embodiment. The control unit 27 of the counting device 20 checks the license data each time the counting device 20 is started. The setting unit 276 of the control unit 27 determines whether or not activation is complete (step S31). Specifically, it determines whether or not license data is recorded in the data storage unit 275. If activation is not complete (step S31: NO), the setting unit 276 refers to the elapsed time data stored in the data storage unit 275 and determines whether or not a certain period of time has elapsed since the shipment of the media processing device 10 (step S32). In the first embodiment, the media processing device 10 may not be able to be activated immediately after shipment in order to generate the license data. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the media processing device 10 has a trial period of a certain period of time from shipment, and is allowed to be used even if it is not activated.

[0064] If a certain period of time has not elapsed since shipment (Step S32: NO), the setting unit 276 enables all functions of the counting device 20 (Step S33). That is, the setting unit 276 enables identification of all currency units and denominations, allows multi-counting, allows reading of serial numbers, and allows the use of all connected expansion devices. On the other hand, if a certain period of time has elapsed since shipment (Step S32: YES), the setting unit 276 disables all functions of the counting device 20 (Step S34).

[0065] If activation is completed in step S31 (step S31: YES), the setting unit 276 attempts to read the license data from the data storage unit 275 and determines whether the reading was successful (step S35). If reading the license data fails (step S35: NO), the setting unit 276 displays a screen on the operation display unit 25 prompting the replacement of the circuit board of the counting device 20 (step S36), and the setting unit 276 disables all functions of the counting device 20 (step S37).

[0066] If the license data is successfully read (Step S35: YES), the setting unit 276 obtains information on the expansion devices connected to the counting device 20 (Step S38). The expansion device information indicates at least the connection position (Nth) and the type of expansion device (accumulation device 30 or bundling device 40). The setting unit 276 compares the number of available accumulation devices 30 and bundling devices 40 recorded in the license data with the expansion device information and determines whether the number of connected expansion devices is within the range of the license data (Step S39). If the number of connected expansion devices is within the range of the license data (Step S39: YES), the setting unit 276 allows the use of all connected expansion devices (Step S40).

[0067] On the other hand, if the number of connected expansion devices exceeds the range of the license data (step S39: NO), the setting unit 276 allows the use of some of all connected expansion devices (step S41). Specifically, the setting unit 276 makes available the number of expansion devices indicated by the license data, starting with those whose connection position is closest to the counting device 20, and makes the remaining expansion devices unavailable.

[0068] For example, if the license data indicates that there are 2 available stacking devices 30 and 1 available bundling device 40, and the first stacking device 30A, second stacking device 30B, third stacking device 30C, first bundling device 40A, second bundling device 40B, and third bundling device 40C are connected to the counting device 20 in the order closest to it, the setting unit 276 will make the first stacking device 30A, second stacking device 30B, and first bundling device 40A available, and make the third stacking device 30C, second bundling device 40B, and third bundling device 40C unavailable.

[0069] Subsequently, the setting unit 276 accepts input from the user for settings of the counting device 20 and expansion devices. For example, the setting unit 276 displays a setting screen on the operation display unit 25 that includes an overall diagram of the media processing device 10, which consists of all the devices that make up the media processing device 10 (counting device 20, accumulating device 30, bundling device 40, and termination pocket 50). Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example of the setting screen of the media processing device 10 according to the first embodiment. The setting unit 276 grays out the images of devices that are deemed unavailable in the license check. The setting screen may also display the number of installed and available accumulating devices 30, and the number of installed and available bundling devices 40. The setting unit 276 also makes it possible to select the images of devices that are deemed available in the license check. When the user selects the image of the device to be configured on the setting screen, the setting unit 276 displays the detailed setting screen for the selected device.

[0070] For example, the detailed settings screen of the counting device 20 accepts the selection of the currency unit to be counted. The setting unit 276 displays the currency units indicated in the license data as currency unit options. In other words, currency units not included in the license data cannot be set. Furthermore, if multi-counting is permitted in the license data, it becomes possible to select currency units that can be simultaneously counted. The combination of currency units that can be simultaneously counted can be any combination.

[0071] For example, the detailed settings screen of the data aggregation device 30 accepts the selection of the currency unit and denomination to be aggregated for each aggregation unit 34. The setting unit 276 displays the currency unit and denomination indicated by the license data as options for the currency unit and denomination.

[0072] For example, the detailed settings screen of the bundling device 40 accepts the selection of the currency unit and denomination to be bundled. The setting unit 276 displays the currency unit and denomination indicated by the license data as options for the currency unit and denomination.

[0073] The setting unit 276 records the setting data entered on the detailed setting screen in the data storage unit 275.

[0074] Subsequently, when the medium B is loaded into the receiving unit 21, the instruction unit 277 refers to the setting data in the data storage unit 275 and determines whether the counting device 20 is available. If the counting device 20 is not available, the instruction unit 277 drives the transport unit 22 and transports the medium B to the reject unit 24 via the identification unit 23. In other embodiments, the instruction unit 277 does not need to drive the transport unit 22 if the counting device 20 is not available. On the other hand, if the counting device 20 is available, the instruction unit 277 drives the transport unit 22 and transports the medium B to the identification unit 23.

[0075] The instruction unit 277 receives the identification result from the identification unit 23 and determines whether or not the medium B is a currency unit that is to be counted by the counting device 20. If the medium B is not to be counted by the counting device 20, the instruction unit 277 drives the transport unit 22 to transport the medium B to the reject unit 24. In other embodiments, if the medium B is not to be counted by the counting device 20, the instruction unit 277 causes the transport unit 22 to discharge the medium B to the reject unit 24. In other embodiments, if the medium B is not to be counted by the counting device 20, the instruction unit 277 may output an instruction to all expansion devices to transport the medium B to the next expansion device. In other embodiments, if the medium B is not to be counted by the counting device 20, the instruction unit 277 causes the transport unit 22 to discharge the medium B to the final terminal pocket 50 of the medium processing device 10. If the medium B is to be counted by the counting device 20, the instruction unit 277 refers to the setting data and identifies the target expansion device to process the medium B. The instruction unit 277 outputs instructions for processing medium B to the identified target expansion device. When medium B is to be processed by target expansion devices connected with one or more expansion devices in between, the instruction unit 277 outputs instructions to the target expansion device, as well as instructions to the expansion device between the counting device 20 and the target expansion device (intermediate expansion device) to transport medium B to the subsequent expansion device. The instruction unit 277 outputs instructions regardless of whether the intermediate expansion device is unavailable or not.

[0076] Action / Effect As described above, the media processing device 10 according to the first embodiment performs the following processes. The media processing device 10 receives input of activation information that can be authenticated using device information unique to the media processing device 10. The media processing device 10 determines whether or not to activate the identification unit 23 based on the activation information. The media processing device 10 has the transport unit 22 transport the media B to the identification unit 23 if it activates the identification unit 23. This prevents the media processing device 10 from performing functions when a license is not granted. Furthermore, by authenticating the license data using device information unique to the media processing device 10, tampering with the license data can be prevented. In other words, the media processing device 10 according to the first embodiment can appropriately restrict the functions that can be used according to the license.

[0077] Furthermore, the license data according to the first embodiment specifies the type of media B to be identified by the identification unit 23, and the media processing device 10 causes the transport unit 22 to reject the media B if the type of media B identified by the identification unit 23 is different from the type indicated by the license data. In this way, the media processing device 10 according to the first embodiment can restrict the types of media B that can be used according to the license.

[0078] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, medium B is cash currency, and the license data specifies the currency unit of medium B to be identified by the identification unit 23, and whether or not to allow the identification of multiple denominations related to multiple currency units simultaneously (multi-counting). If multi-counting is permitted by the license data, the medium processing device 10 causes the transport unit 22 to reject medium B if the currency unit of medium B identified by the identification unit 23 is different from the type indicated by the license data. On the other hand, if multi-counting is not permitted by the license data, the transport unit 22 causes the transport unit 22 to reject medium B if the currency unit of medium B is different from one of the currency units designated as the identification target. In this way, the medium processing device 10 in the first embodiment can restrict the possibility of multi-counting according to the license.

[0079] Furthermore, the counting device 20 according to the first embodiment includes a downstream connecting unit 26 that connects to an expansion device that performs processing on the medium B. The license data specifies whether or not processing by the expansion device is permitted, and the control unit 27 determines whether or not processing by the connected expansion device is permitted based on the license data. As a result, the media processing device 10 according to the first embodiment can restrict the use of the connected expansion device according to the license.

[0080] In particular, the license data according to the first embodiment specifies the number of expansion devices that are permitted to process, and the control unit 27 determines whether or not to process each connected expansion device based on the license data. As a result, the media processing device 10 according to the first embodiment can limit the number of available expansion devices according to the license.

[0081] <Other Embodiments> Although one embodiment has been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to that described above, and various design changes are possible. In other embodiments, the order of the above-described processes may be changed as appropriate. Also, some processes may be executed in parallel. The control unit 27 of the counting device 20 may be composed of a single computer, or the control unit 27 may be composed of multiple computers arranged in a manner in which multiple computers cooperate with each other to function as the control unit 27. In this case, some of the computers constituting the control unit 27 may be mounted inside the counting device 20, while the other computers may be located outside the work machine.

[0082] The media processing apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment processes banknotes as media B, but is not limited to this. For example, the media processing apparatus 10 according to the second embodiment may process other media B such as gift certificates or coins.

[0083] The media processing device 10 according to the first embodiment is usable even without activation for a certain period after shipment, but is not limited to this. For example, the media processing device 10 according to the third embodiment may always disable all functions unless activated. Also, for example, the media processing device 10 according to the fourth embodiment may specify the trial period by the number of trials or the end date.

[0084] The activation system 1 according to the first embodiment uses the CPU-ID of the control unit 27 to encrypt and decrypt the license data, but is not limited to this. For example, the activation system 1 according to the fifth embodiment may use other device information, such as the PUF (Physically Unclonable Functions) of the semiconductor chip mounted on the control unit 27, or a unique number assigned during production and recorded in ROM that is not readable from the outside, to encrypt and decrypt the license data. Alternatively, for example, the activation system 1 according to the sixth embodiment may use secondary device information, such as random numbers generated using device information like the CPU-ID or PUF, hash values, or public-key and private-key pairs, to encrypt and decrypt the license data.

[0085] The activation system 1 according to the first embodiment authenticates license data by determining whether the encrypted license data has been successfully decrypted, but is not limited to this. For example, the license generation device 70 according to the seventh embodiment may authenticate license data by generating signature data for the license data using the CPU-ID, and the control unit 27 verifying the signature data using the CPU-ID.

[0086] The activation system 1 according to the first embodiment exchanges license data via the recording medium 90, but is not limited thereto. For example, in the activation system 1 according to the eighth embodiment, the media processing device 10 and the license generation device 70 are connected to each other via a network or the like so that they can communicate with each other, and license data may be exchanged via communication.

[0087] Furthermore, the media processing apparatus 10 according to the ninth embodiment may allow the counting of dummy paper for maintenance purposes, for example, even if the counting device 20 is unavailable.

[0088] <Computer Configuration> Figure 13 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of a computer according to at least one embodiment. Computer C comprises a processor C1, main memory C2, storage C3, and interface C4. The control unit 27 of the counting device 20, the control unit 35 of the accumulating device 30, the control unit 45 of the bundling device 40, and the license generation device 70 are implemented in computer C. The operation of each of the above-mentioned processing units is stored in storage C3 in the form of a program. Processor C1 reads the program from storage C3, loads it into main memory C2, and executes the above-mentioned processing according to the program. Processor C1 also allocates memory areas in main memory C2 corresponding to each of the above-mentioned storage units according to the program. Examples of processor C1 include CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphic Processing Unit), and microprocessor.

[0089] The program may be for implementing some of the functions that computer C is to perform. For example, the program may perform functions in combination with other programs already stored in storage, or in combination with other programs implemented on other devices. In other embodiments, computer C may include a custom LSI (Large Scale Integrated Circuit) such as a PLD (Programmable Logic Device) in addition to, or instead of, the above configuration. Examples of PLDs include PAL (Programmable Array Logic), GAL (Generic Array Logic), CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device), and FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). In this case, some or all of the functions implemented by processor C1 may be implemented by the integrated circuit. Such an integrated circuit is also included as an example of a processor. In other embodiments, computer C may be virtualized on one or more computers.

[0090] Examples of storage C3 include magnetic disks, magneto-optical disks, optical disks, and semiconductor memory. Storage C3 may be an internal medium directly connected to the bus of computer C, or an external medium connected to computer C via interface C4 or a communication line. Furthermore, if this program is delivered to computer C via a communication line, computer C, upon receiving the program, may load it into main memory C2 and execute the above processing. In at least one embodiment, storage C3 is a tangible storage medium that is not temporary.

[0091] Furthermore, the program may be intended to implement some of the functions described above. In addition, the program may be a so-called differential file (differential program) that implements the functions described above in combination with other programs already stored in storage C3. [Industrial applicability]

[0092] According to the above embodiment, the media processing device can appropriately restrict the functions available in accordance with the license. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 1…Activation system, 10…Media processing device, 20…Counting device, 21…Receiving unit, 22…Transport unit, 23…Identification unit, 24…Reject unit, 25…Operation display unit, 26…Descending unit, 27…Control unit, 271…ID acquisition unit, 272…ID recording unit, 273…Decoding unit, 274…Activation unit, 275…Data storage unit, 276…Setting unit, 277…Instruction unit, 28…Recording medium interface, 30…Integration device, 31…Preceding unit, 32…Descending unit, 33…Transport unit, 34…Integration unit, 35…Control unit, 36…Status display unit, 40… Binding device, 41...Front connection section, 42...Rear connection section, 43...Transport section, 44...Binding section, 441...Alignment and stacking section, 442...Stacking and transport section, 443...Binding mechanism, 444...External discharge section, 45...Control unit, 50...Terminal pocket, 70...License generation device, 71...ID acquisition section, 72...License acquisition section, 73...Encryption section, 74...Recording section, 80...Database, 81...Authority table, 82...Corresponding currency table, 90...Recording medium, B...Media, C...Computer, C1...Processor, C2...Main memory, C3...Storage, C4...Interface

Claims

1. A media processing device that performs predetermined processing on the inserted medium, A transport unit that transports the medium that has been put in along a transport path, An identification unit is provided on the transport path to identify the transported medium, Control unit and Equipped with, The control unit, The media processing device receives input of authentication information that can be authenticated using device information specific to the media processing device, Based on the activation information, it is determined whether or not to activate the identification unit. At least when the identification unit is activated, the transport unit transports the medium to the identification unit. Media processing device.

2. The activation information specifies the type of medium to be identified by the identification unit, If the type of medium identified by the identification unit differs from the type indicated by the activation information, the transport unit is instructed to discharge the medium. The media processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned medium is cash currency, The activation information specifies the currency unit of the medium to be identified by the identification unit, and whether or not it is permitted to identify multiple denominations of currency units simultaneously. The control unit, When the activation information allows for the simultaneous identification of multiple denominations of currency units, if the currency unit of the medium identified by the identification unit differs from the type indicated by the activation information, the transport unit discharges the medium. If the activation information does not permit the simultaneous identification of multiple denominations of currency units, the system accepts the designation of one currency unit to be identified from the currency units specified in the activation information, and if the currency unit of the medium identified by the identification unit is different from the designated one currency unit, the system causes the transport unit to discharge the medium. The media processing apparatus according to claim 2.

4. It includes a connection unit that connects to an expansion device that performs processing on the aforementioned medium, The activation information specifies whether or not processing by the expansion device is possible, The control unit determines whether or not to process the connected expansion device based on the activation information. A media processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The activation information specifies the number of extension devices that are permitted to process, Based on the activation information, the control unit determines whether or not to process each connected expansion device. The media processing apparatus according to claim 4.

6. The aforementioned device information is the ID of the processor mounted in the control unit. A media processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

7. The control unit, During the predetermined trial period, the identification unit is activated regardless of the activation information, and the transport unit is made to transport the medium to the identification unit. A media processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

8. A media processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, A generation device that generates authenticationable activation information using device information specific to the media processing device, An activation system equipped with [this feature].

9. A media processing method using a media processing apparatus comprising a transport unit that transports a medium that has been put in along a transport path, an identification unit that identifies the transported medium and a control unit which is a computer, provided on the transport path, The control unit receives the input of activation information that can be authenticated using device information specific to the media processing device, The control unit determines whether or not to activate the identification unit based on the activation information, The control unit, when at least the identification unit is activated, causes the transport unit to transport the medium to the identification unit. A media processing method comprising:

Images