Cash handling device, cash handling method, and cash handling program

Abstract

A cash handling device (1) has the following sections: a banknote storage container that stores banknotes; a logical stored quantity increase / decrease calculation section (103) that calculates a first increase / decrease value on the basis of information about the input / output of banknotes to / from the banknote storage container; a physical stored quantity increase / decrease calculation section (102) that calculates a second increase / decrease value on the basis of a physical quantity that varies according to the number of banknotes stored in the banknote storage container; and a detection section (104) that detects the possibility of loss of banknotes on the basis of the first increase / decrease value calculated by the logical stored quantity increase / decrease calculation section (103) and the second increase / decrease value calculated by the physical stored quantity increase / decrease calculation section (102).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cash handling device, a cash handling method, and a cash handling program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, cash handling devices such as ATMs (Automatic Teller Machines) that are widely used in banks and the like are known. A cash handling device is a device that automatically performs cash withdrawal transactions and deposit transactions in response to instructions from customers. Other cash handling devices include SCO (Self Checkout System) used in self-checkouts in supermarkets and the like. As described above, a plurality of cash handling devices are arranged within a predetermined area such as a bank branch, department store, supermarket, convenience store, etc., to improve customer convenience.

[0003] In such a cash handling device, there may be cases where cash stored in the mounted cash processing unit is lost. For example, it is conceivable that the recycling stacker for storing recyclable banknotes provided in the cash processing unit is opened and the banknotes stored in the recycling stacker are stolen.

[0004] Traditionally, cash loss in cash handling machines was detected through periodic cash checks conducted at certain intervals. For example, a cash check is performed as follows: The cash handling machine calculates the total number of banknotes in the unit from a counter that is updated as banknotes are moved during operation. The total number of banknotes calculated from the information obtained from this counter is called the "calculated total number of banknotes." The calculation of the calculated total number of banknotes is performed periodically in the cash handling machine during operation. During the check, all banknotes in the banknote recycling unit are collected and removed from one location within the cash handling machine, and these removed banknotes are counted by a counter. This operation of counting the removed banknotes with a counter is called the "check operation," and the total number of banknotes obtained from the check operation is called the "actual number of banknotes." Traditionally, cash loss was detected during the check due to a discrepancy between the actual number of banknotes and the calculated number of banknotes.

[0005] Furthermore, as a technology for detecting lost cash in cash handling machines, a technique has been proposed in which the serial numbers of deposited banknotes are read and stored, the serial numbers of banknotes stored in the banknote cassette are read again, and the stored serial numbers are compared with the re-read serial numbers to detect loss. Another proposed technique involves storing information on the number of banknotes stored in the stacker in memory, detecting the operation of the key on the stacker door to count the number of banknotes stored in the stacker, and comparing the number of banknotes in memory with the counted number of banknotes. A third proposed technique involves obtaining unique sheet identification information from a sheet of paper, transmitting the obtained sheet identification information, receiving the sheet identification information, and identifying the sheet identification information of a lost sheet of paper. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2015-184802 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2016-177596 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-156637 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] However, conventional methods of detecting cash loss through scrutiny involve the process of removing cash from the cash handling unit during the scrutiny, which makes detecting cash loss time-consuming. Furthermore, even if cash loss is detected, the time elapsed between the actual loss and the scrutiny makes it difficult to determine the cause and date of the loss. Therefore, it is difficult to improve the security of cash management with these methods.

[0008] Furthermore, with technologies that detect loss based on serial numbers, it is difficult to track the serial numbers of replenished banknotes and banknotes retrieved from the collection stacker, making it difficult to detect loss of all banknotes within the cash handling unit. The same is true for technologies that detect loss based on paper identification information. Also, with technologies that detect cash loss by counting the number of banknotes stored in the stacker triggered by the operation of the stacker door key, cash loss is not detected until the key is operated, making it difficult to identify the cause and date of the cash loss. Thus, regardless of the technology used, it is difficult to improve the security of cash management.

[0009] The disclosed technology was made in view of the above and aims to provide a cash handling device, a cash handling method, and a cash handling program that enhance the security of cash management. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] The cash handling device, cash handling method, and cash handling program disclosed in this application include, in one embodiment, a banknote storage compartment for storing banknotes. A logical storage volume increase / decrease calculation unit calculates a first increase / decrease value based on banknote inflow / outflow information to and from the banknote storage compartment. A physical storage volume increase / decrease calculation unit calculates a second increase / decrease value based on a physical quantity that fluctuates according to the number of banknotes stored in the banknote storage compartment. A detection unit detects the possibility of banknote loss based on the first increase / decrease value and the second increase / decrease value. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to one embodiment of the cash handling device, cash handling method, and cash handling program disclosed in this application, the security of cash management can be enhanced. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an example of the hardware configuration of a cash handling device. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the cash handling unit. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram of the cash handling equipment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the overview of a recycling stacker with a roll-type banknote storage mechanism. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the roll rotation mechanism. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows the relationship between the number of banknotes at the time of deposit and withdrawal and the diameter of the roll. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of a conversion table from the diameter of a roll to the number of banknotes. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of detecting the possibility of cash loss. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of a suspected period that can be identified from log information. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a flowchart of the cash loss detection process using a cash handling device according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows the difference in banknote storage methods between a roll-type banknote storage mechanism and a stack-type banknote collection mechanism. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the cash handling device, cash handling method, and cash handling program disclosed in the present application will be described in detail based on the drawings. Note that the cash handling device, cash handling method, and cash handling program disclosed in the present application are not limited by the following embodiments.

Embodiment

[0014] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a cash handling device. As shown in FIG. 1, the cash handling device 1 includes a main control unit 11, a storage unit 12, an input unit 13, a display unit 14, a deposit / withdrawal processing unit 15, a passbook entry processing unit 16, a card reading unit 17, a receipt issuing unit 18, and a communication processing unit 19. The main control unit 11, the storage unit 12, the input unit 13, the display unit 14, the deposit / withdrawal processing unit 15, the passbook entry processing unit 16, the card reading unit 17, the receipt issuing unit 18, and the communication processing unit 19 are connected by a bus 20.

[0015] The input unit 13 and the display unit 14 include a customer operation screen. The user refers to various screens displayed on the display unit 14 and uses the input unit 13 to perform operations such as selecting and inputting a desired transaction.

[0016] The communication processing unit 19 is used for communication with the host computer 2 via a network when providing services for the transactions selected by the user. The communication processing unit 19 is, for example, a communication interface.

[0017] The main control unit 11 comprehensively controls the cash handling device 1. The main control unit 11 reads a program for performing various processes of the cash handling device 1 stored in the storage unit 12 and temporarily stores the read program in an internal memory (not shown), and performs various processes according to this program. The main control unit 11 has, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0018] For example, the main control unit 11 performs control to realize a transaction instructed by the user operating the input unit 13. Specifically, when the user selects and inputs a transaction from the transaction menu displayed on the display unit 14 using the input unit 13, inserts a card or passbook, and performs the predetermined transaction operation, the main control unit 11 performs control to realize the transaction with the host computer 2, which manages various information such as the user's account information, PIN, and deposit amount, via the communication processing unit 19.

[0019] The storage unit 12 stores application programs for performing various operations of the cash handling device 1, as well as data necessary for the operations of the cash handling device 1. The storage unit 12 is, for example, a hard disk drive.

[0020] The deposit / withdrawal processing unit 15 includes a cash processing unit 150. The cash processing unit 150 transports and stores banknotes. For example, the cash processing unit 150 accepts banknotes inserted by a user, transports, authenticates, counts, and stores the banknotes. The cash processing unit 150 also discharges a predetermined number of banknotes from the cash deposit / withdrawal slot according to the withdrawal transaction selected by the user. The cash processing unit 150 may also accept inserted coins, authenticate, count, and store them, and discharge a predetermined number of coins from the cash deposit / withdrawal slot according to the withdrawal transaction selected by the user.

[0021] The passbook entry processing unit 16 receives the passbook inserted by the user through the passbook reception slot, transports it to a designated location, records the details of the transaction, and returns the completed passbook through the passbook reception slot.

[0022] The card reader 17 receives the card inserted by the user through the card slot, reads data such as account information from the card's magnetic stripe and IC (Integrated Circuit) chip, and returns the card through the card slot. The receipt issuing unit 18 issues a receipt.

[0023] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the cash handling unit. The cash handling unit 150 includes a deposit section 151, a dispensing section 152, a banknote authentication section 153, a banknote transport mechanism 154, recycling stackers 155 and 156, a replenishment stacker 157, and a collection stacker 158, as shown in Figure 2. The cash handling unit 150 also includes a processor and memory, although these are not shown.

[0024] The deposit section 151 is a mechanism for receiving deposited banknotes. The withdrawal section 152 is a mechanism for dispensing withdrawn banknotes. The banknote authentication section 153 authenticates the inserted banknotes and determines whether they are genuine or counterfeit, and whether they are recyclable, etc.

[0025] The recycling stackers 155 and 156 store banknotes that are recycled from the deposited banknotes and used for withdrawals. In this embodiment, the recycling stackers 155 and 156 have a roll-type banknote storage mechanism. The recycling stacker 155 has rolls 51 and 52 for storing banknotes. The recycling stacker 156 also has rolls 53 and 54 for storing banknotes.

[0026] In Figure 2, the cash handling unit 150 is shown to have two recycling stackers, recycling stackers 155 and 156. However, there may be one recycling stacker or three or more. Similarly, one or three or more rolls 51 and 52 may be mounted in a single recycling stacker 155. These recycling stackers 155 and 156 are an example of a "banknote storage compartment".

[0027] The replenishment stacker 157 is used for dispensing money when the amount of banknotes stored in the recycling stacker 155 becomes low. The replenishment stacker 157 stores banknotes that have been replenished from an external source. The manager of the cash handling device 1 can replenish the banknotes by placing banknotes in the replenishment stacker 157 and setting it in the cash handling device 1.

[0028] The collection stacker 158 stores banknotes that are not used for recycling. Banknotes stored in the collection stacker 158 are removed and collected without being used for cash.

[0029] The banknote transport mechanism 154 moves banknotes between the deposit section 151, the dispensing section 152, the recycling stacker 155, the recycling stacker 156, the replenishment stacker 157, and the collection stacker 158. For example, the banknote transport mechanism 154 sends banknotes inserted into the deposit section 151 to the recycling stacker 155 for storage via route 501. The banknote transport mechanism 154 also sends banknotes inserted into the deposit section 151 to the recycling stacker 156 for storage via route 502. The banknote transport mechanism 154 also moves banknotes from the recycling stacker 156 to the collection stacker 158 via route 503. The banknote transport mechanism 154 also sends banknotes from the recycling stacker 155 to the dispensing section 152 via route 504. Furthermore, the banknote transport mechanism 154 sends banknotes from the recycling stacker 156 to the dispensing unit 152 via the path 505. The above path is just one example, and the banknote transport mechanism 154 can also move banknotes using other paths.

[0030] Figure 3 is a block diagram of the cash handling device. Cash handling device 1 detects the possibility of cash loss, which refers to the loss of banknotes stored in it. Cash handling device 1 only detects when cash loss is suspected and the possibility exists, but below, the detection of the possibility of cash loss may be simply referred to as "cash loss detection." Figure 3 describes the cash loss detection function of cash handling device 1, and other functions are not shown in the illustration. The following explanation of cash loss detection by cash handling device 1 will be given with reference to Figure 3.

[0031] As shown in Figure 3, the cash handling unit 150 of the cash handling device 1 has a log generation unit 521 and a log storage unit 522. The log generation unit 521 is implemented by a processor in the cash handling unit 150. The log storage unit 522 is implemented, for example, by a memory in the cash handling unit 150.

[0032] The log generation unit 521 controls and monitors the operation of the cash processing unit 150 and records logs representing the operation and status of the cash processing unit 150 in log data 523 held by the log storage unit 522. For example, the log generation unit 521 records information such as power on / off and removal and installation of the recycling stackers 155 and 156 in log data 523. In addition, the log generation unit 521 records information such as the number of times banknotes have been detected passing by sensors installed in various parts of the cash processing unit 150, and the diameter of the rolls obtained from control information of the pulse motors for rotating the rolls in log data 523.

[0033] Here, we will describe an example of a sensor. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an overview of a recycling stacker with a roll-type banknote storage mechanism. Here, we will explain using the recycling stacker 155 as an example.

[0034] The recycling stacker 155 has a frame section 551 and a stacker section 552. The frame section 551 is fixed to the cash handling device 1. The stacker section 552 is detachable from the frame section 551. The roll 51 stores banknotes by sandwiching them between film 55 and winding them up. Similarly, the roll 52 stores banknotes by sandwiching them between film 56 and winding them up.

[0035] Furthermore, the recycling stacker 155 has a transport path 540 for feeding banknotes to rolls 51 or 52. Sensors 553 to 556 for detecting the passage of banknotes are provided in the transport path 540, the winding opening of film 55 in roll 51, and the winding opening of film 56 in roll 52.

[0036] The log generation unit 521 can detect the inflow and outflow of banknotes to and from the rolls 51 and 52 of the recycling stacker 155 using the detection results of banknote passage by sensors 553 to 556. Here, the calculation of the number of banknotes that have entered and exited will be explained using roll 51 as an example. The log generation unit 521 has counters for each of the banknotes that have entered and exited rolls 51 and 52, respectively, and uses the counters to count the inflow and outflow of banknotes according to the detection results of banknote passage by sensors 553 to 556. The log generation unit 521 can calculate the number of banknotes stored in each of the rolls 51 and 52 at the time of log generation by counting the inflow and outflow of banknotes from a state where the counter is 0 for each of the rolls 51 and 52. The log generation unit 521 then records the number of banknotes stored in each of the rolls 51 and 52 at the time of log generation in log data 523.

[0037] The log generation unit 521 similarly calculates the number of banknotes stored in rolls 53 and 54 of the recycling stacker 156 and records it in log data 523. In addition, the log generation unit 521 may also record in log data 523 the number of banknotes discharged from the replenishment stacker 157, the number of banknotes fed into the collection stacker 158, and so on.

[0038] Furthermore, the log generation unit 521 uses information obtained by controlling and monitoring the operation of the recycling stackers 155 and 156 of the cash handling unit 150 to calculate the diameters of the rolls 51 to 54 of the recycling stackers 155 and 156. The log generation unit 521 then records the calculated diameters of the rolls 51 to 54 in the log data 523.

[0039] The following describes in detail how the log generation unit 521 calculates the diameters of each of the rolls 51 to 54. Here, we will use roll 51 of the recycling stacker 155 as an example.

[0040] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the roll rotation mechanism. Although omitted in Figures 2 and 4, the recycle stacker 155 has a pulse motor 59 that rotates the roll 51, as shown in Figure 5. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a film movement detection roller 60 for measuring the amount of movement of the film 55 with the banknotes sandwiched inside is positioned near the winding opening where the film 55 with the banknotes sandwiched inside is wound onto the roll 51. The film movement detection roller 60 generates a predetermined number of movement detection pulses with each rotation.

[0041] The rotation angle per pulse of the pulse motor 59 is fixed. Furthermore, the number of pulses per unit time supplied to the pulse motor 59 is controlled by the firmware of the cash handling unit 150 so that the movement speed of the film 55 remains constant. In other words, the pulse motor 59 rotates the roll 51 faster when the diameter is small and slower when the diameter is large. At each point in time, the number of rotations of the roll 51 per unit time can be determined based on the pulse period for the pulse motor 59 obtained from the control of the cash handling unit 150.

[0042] Furthermore, as the pulse motor 59 rotates, the roll 51 rotates, and the film 55 with banknotes sandwiched between it at regular intervals is wound onto the outer circumference of the roll 51. Therefore, as the amount of film 55 wound by the roll 51 per pulse increases, the amount of banknotes wound by the roll 51 also increases. Additionally, as the diameter and outer circumference of the roll 51 per pulse increase, the amount of film 55 wound by the roll 51 also increases.

[0043] Here, if the number of pulses supplied to the pulse motor 59 is the same, the rotation angle of the roll 51 will also be the same. And, when the rotation angles are the same, the larger the diameter of the roll 51, the longer its circumference becomes, and therefore the amount of film 55 wound by the roll 51 increases. From this, the diameter of the roll 51 can be determined from the number of rotations of the roll 51 per unit time and the amount of film 55 moved.

[0044] Therefore, the log generation unit 521 calculates the diameter of the roll 51 as follows. The log generation unit 521 has information on the number of pulses per revolution of the pulse motor 59 in advance. The log generation unit 521 also has information on the reduction ratio of the roll 51 to the pulse motor 59. Furthermore, the log generation unit 521 holds the pulse period of the pulse motor 59 obtained from the control of the cash handling unit 150. The log generation unit 521 also has information on the diameter of the film movement detection roller 60 and a predetermined number of movement detection pulses generated per revolution. Furthermore, the log generation unit 521 monitors the number of movement detection pulses generated from the film movement detection roller 60 and obtains the film movement pulse period corresponding to the number of movement detection pulses generated per unit time.

[0045] For example, the log generation unit 521 has "200" as the number of pulses per revolution of the pulse motor 59, and "0.65769" as the reduction ratio of the roll 51 to the pulse motor 59. The log generation unit 521 also has "17.2 mm" as the diameter of the film movement detection roller 60, and "8" as the predetermined number of movement detection pulses.

[0046] The log generation unit 521 then calculates the number of pulses per revolution of the roll by dividing the number of pulses per revolution of the pulse motor 59 by the reduction ratio. That is, "number of pulses per revolution of the roll 51 = number of pulses per revolution of the pulse motor 59 / reduction ratio".

[0047] Furthermore, the log generation unit 521 uses the reciprocal of the pulse period of the pulse motor 59 as the number of pulses per second. That is, "number of pulses per second = 1 / pulse period of pulse motor 59". Hereafter, calculations will be performed using 1 second as the unit time.

[0048] Next, the log generation unit 521 divides the number of pulses per second by the number of pulses per revolution of the roll 51 to determine the number of rotations of the roll 51 per second. That is, "Number of rotations of the roll 51 per second = Number of pulses per second / Number of pulses per revolution of the roll 51".

[0049] Furthermore, the log generation unit 521 calculates the speed of the film 55 by dividing the length of the outer circumference, which is determined from the diameter of the film movement detection roller 60, by the number of rotations of the film movement detection roller 60 per second. That is, "Speed ​​of film 55 = (Diameter of film movement detection roller 60 × π) / (Film movement pulse period × A predetermined number of movement detection pulses generated per rotation of the film movement detection roller 60)".

[0050] The log generation unit 521 then divides the speed of the film 55 by the number of rotations of the roll 51 per second to calculate the length of the outer circumference of the roll 51. That is, "length of the outer circumference of the roll 51 = speed of the film 55 / number of rotations of the roll 51 per second".

[0051] Finally, the log generation unit 521 calculates the diameter of the roll 51 from the calculated outer circumference length of the roll 51. Here, "Diameter of roll 51 = Outer circumference length of roll 51 / π". Thus, the log generation unit 521 can determine the diameter of the roll 51.

[0052] Returning to Figure 3, the explanation continues. The log storage unit 522 holds log data 523, in which the log generation unit 521 records logs representing the operation and status of the cash handling unit 150.

[0053] Next, the main control unit 11 of the cash handling device 1 will be described. The main control unit 11 includes a log acquisition unit 101, a physical storage amount increase / decrease calculation unit 102, a logical storage amount increase / decrease calculation unit 103, a detection unit 104, and a notification unit 105.

[0054] The log acquisition unit 101 periodically acquires log data 523 held by the log storage unit 522 of the cash handling unit 150. The log acquisition unit 101 then stores the newly acquired log data 523 as the latest log data 201 in the storage unit 12. At this time, the log acquisition unit 101 leaves the latest log data 201 that was stored in the storage unit 12 as the previous log data 202. In the cash handling device 1 according to this embodiment, the timing of log acquisition by the log acquisition unit 101 is the timing of cash loss detection.

[0055] The logical storage amount increase / decrease calculation unit 103 obtains the latest number of banknotes stored in the roll 51 from the latest log data 201. The logical storage amount increase / decrease calculation unit 103 also obtains the previous number of banknotes stored in the roll 51 from the previous log data 202. Then, the logical storage amount increase / decrease calculation unit 103 subtracts the previous number from the latest number of banknotes stored in the roll 51 to calculate the increase / decrease value of the logical storage amount, which is the storage amount logically obtained from the detected number of banknotes entering and leaving the roll.

[0056] Similarly, the logical storage amount increase / decrease calculation unit 103 calculates the increase / decrease value of the logical storage amount for rolls 52 to 54. The logical storage amount increase / decrease calculation unit 103 then outputs the calculated increase / decrease value of the logical storage amount for each roll 51 to 54 to the detection unit 104. This increase / decrease value of the logical storage amount is an example of the "first increase / decrease value".

[0057] Here, if the latest log data 201 and the previous log data 202 record the difference calculated from the number of banknotes inserted and ejected for each roll 51 to 54, the logical storage amount increase / decrease calculation unit 103 may use that value as the increase / decrease value for the logical storage amount.

[0058] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the inflow and outflow of banknotes were detected from the detection results of sensors 553 to 556 provided on the recycling stacker 155, but the method of counting the number of banknotes inserted and ejected is not limited to this. For example, the logical storage amount increase / decrease calculation unit 103 may determine the number of banknotes inserted or ejected using instructions from an application that operates the cash processing unit 150 to insert banknotes into the recycling stacker 155 and instructions to eject banknotes from the recycling stacker 155. In this case, the logical storage amount increase / decrease calculation unit 103 can store the determined number of inserted or ejected banknotes and determine the increase / decrease value of the logical storage amount from the number of banknotes inserted into the recycling stacker 155 and the number of banknotes ejected from the recycling stacker 155 without using the latest log data 201 or the previous log data 202.

[0059] The physical storage capacity increase / decrease calculation unit 102 obtains information on the diameters of each of the rolls 51 to 54 from the latest log data 201. Then, for each of the rolls 51 to 54, the physical storage capacity increase / decrease calculation unit 102 calculates an increase / decrease value of the physical storage capacity, which is the physical storage capacity estimated from the obtained diameter information. The details of how the physical storage capacity increase / decrease calculation unit 102 calculates the increase / decrease value of the physical storage capacity are described below.

[0060] By counting the number of banknotes stored in roll 51 and measuring the diameter of roll 51 with that number of banknotes, the measured values ​​of the number of banknotes and the corresponding diameter of roll 51 can be obtained. Figure 6 shows the relationship between the number of banknotes and the diameter of the roll at the time of deposit and withdrawal. Graph 301 shows the relationship between the number of banknotes and the diameter of roll 51 at the time of deposit, and graph 302 shows the relationship between the number of banknotes and the diameter of roll 51 at the time of withdrawal. In both graphs 301 and 302, the horizontal axis represents the number of banknotes and the vertical axis represents the diameter of roll 51. Here, as shown in graphs 301 and 302, it is possible to generate a regression line representing the relationship between the number of banknotes and the diameter of roll 51 from the measured values. The equations shown in graphs 302 and 302 are the equations of the regression lines in each case.

[0061] Figure 7 shows an example of a conversion table from the diameter of the roll to the number of banknotes. The physical storage capacity increase / decrease calculation unit 102 has a conversion table 120 from the diameter of the roll 51 to the number of banknotes based on approximation formulas obtained from graphs 301 and 302. The diameter of the roll in the conversion table 120 is the value expected as the diameter obtained from the regression lines of graphs 301 and 302. In addition, the deposit difference and withdrawal difference in the conversion table 120 represent the difference between the expected value and the measured value. Here, the maximum difference at the time of deposit is 1.8 and the maximum difference at the time of withdrawal is 1.3, so the diameter at the time of withdrawal in the conversion table 120 was used for conversion to the number of banknotes. In this embodiment, the physical storage capacity increase / decrease calculation unit 102 uses the same single conversion table 120 for both deposit and withdrawal, but different tables may be used for deposit and withdrawal.

[0062] When converting the diameter of roll 51 to the number of banknotes, in addition to the actual measured value based on the storage history, it is also possible to use the size of the banknotes, the size of the transparent window in the case of polymer banknotes, or the thickness of the banknotes, or a combination thereof. In that case, the conversion table 120 will be adjusted according to those values.

[0063] The physical storage capacity increase / decrease calculation unit 102 obtains the number of banknotes corresponding to the diameter of the roll 51 obtained from the latest log data 201 from the conversion table 120. The physical storage capacity increase / decrease calculation unit 102 also stores the previously calculated physical storage capacity of the roll 51. Then, the physical storage capacity increase / decrease calculation unit 102 subtracts the previously calculated physical storage capacity of the roll 51 from the currently calculated physical storage capacity of the roll 51 to calculate the increase / decrease value of the physical storage capacity.

[0064] Similarly, the physical storage volume increase / decrease calculation unit 102 calculates the increase / decrease value of the physical storage volume for each of the rolls 52 to 54. The physical storage volume increase / decrease calculation unit 102 then outputs the calculated increase / decrease values ​​of the physical storage volume for each of the rolls 51 to 54 to the detection unit 104. This increase / decrease value of the physical storage volume is an example of the "second increase / decrease value".

[0065] The detection unit 104 has a pre-defined detection threshold for detecting cash loss. The detection threshold is the threshold for the difference between the increase / decrease value of the logical storage amount and the increase / decrease value of the physical storage amount. That is, the detection unit 104 detects cash loss when the discrepancy between the increase / decrease value of the logical storage amount and the increase / decrease value of the physical storage amount is greater than the threshold. The larger the threshold, the less frequently it is detected, and the higher the possibility of missing cash loss. Conversely, the smaller the threshold, the more frequently it is detected, and the more false detections of cash loss occur. Therefore, it is preferable to determine the threshold according to the operation. In this embodiment, the detection threshold is a positive value.

[0066] For example, the detection threshold can be determined using the actual measured value from the storage history, the size of the banknote, or, in the case of polymer banknotes, the size of the transparent window or the thickness of the banknote, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, if a jam occurs, the detection unit 104 may adjust the detection threshold based on the jam occurrence history recorded in the log, or it may determine that detection is not possible and not perform detection.

[0067] The detection unit 104 receives input from the logical storage amount increase / decrease unit 103 for each roll 51 to 54. The detection unit 104 also receives input from the physical storage amount increase / decrease unit 102 for each roll 51 to 54.

[0068] The detection unit 104 then compares the absolute value of the difference between the increase / decrease value of the logical storage amount and the increase / decrease value of the physical storage amount for roll 51 with the detection threshold. If the absolute value of the difference between the increase / decrease value of the logical storage amount and the increase / decrease value of the physical storage amount is greater than the detection threshold, the detection unit 104 detects cash loss in roll 51. For example, if the detection threshold is 5, the detection unit 104 detects cash loss in roll 51 when the difference in the increase / decrease value is -5 or less, or 5 or more. Similarly, the detection unit 104 detects cash loss for rolls 52 to 54.

[0069] Alternatively, the detection unit 104 may maintain a lower threshold and an upper threshold, and detect cash loss when the difference between the increase / decrease values ​​falls below the increase / decrease threshold or exceeds the upper threshold.

[0070] If cash loss is detected in any of the rolls 52 to 54, the detection unit 104 instructs the notification unit 105 to issue a cash loss warning. Here, the detection unit 104 may distinguish between the recycling stacker 155 and the recycling stacker 156, and between the rolls 52 to 54, and issue the cash loss warning notification instruction accordingly.

[0071] Figure 8 shows an example of detecting the possibility of cash loss. Table 311 in Figure 8 shows the items recorded in the log, as well as the items calculated by the physical storage volume increase / decrease calculation unit 102, the logical storage volume increase / decrease calculation unit 103, and the detection unit 104. In this example, cash loss detection was performed with a detection threshold of 5 bills, but Table 311 also shows the case where the detection threshold is 4 bills for comparison.

[0072] For example, on July 25th, as shown in row 312, both the increase / decrease in logical storage amount and the increase / decrease in physical storage amount are a large -59 sheets, which might raise suspicion of cash loss from a human perspective. However, the detection unit 104 does not detect cash loss because the difference between the increase / decrease in logical storage amount and the increase / decrease in physical storage amount is below the detection threshold. In fact, in this case, the large decrease in banknotes is due to a withdrawal operation, and there is no risk of cash loss.

[0073] In contrast, on August 10th, shown in line 313, the difference between the increase / decrease value of the logical storage amount and the increase / decrease value of the physical storage amount is 24, which is above the detection threshold, so the detection unit 104 detects the loss of cash. Also, on August 18th, shown in line 314, the difference between the increase / decrease value of the logical storage amount and the increase / decrease value of the physical storage amount is 16, which is above the detection threshold, so the detection unit 104 detects the loss of cash.

[0074] On the other hand, on August 14th, as shown in row 315, the difference between the increase / decrease in logical storage capacity and the increase / decrease in physical storage capacity is 4. In this case, if the detection threshold is set to 4, the difference will be greater than or equal to the detection threshold, and the detection unit 104 may falsely detect a loss of cash.

[0075] Furthermore, the detection unit 104 can limit the suspected period during which cash loss occurred by referring to other logs of the cash handling device 1. For example, the detection unit 104 can obtain logs from the storage unit 12 that include power supply information and stacker attachment / detachment information of the cash handling device 1 to limit the suspected period during which cash loss occurred. The detection unit 104 may also notify the administrator of the identified suspected period of cash loss via the notification unit 105. In this embodiment, the description assumes that other logs of the cash handling device 1 are stored in the storage unit 12, but the storage location is not limited to this.

[0076] Figure 9 shows an example of a suspected period that can be identified from the log information. Figure 9 shows events that occurred from the previous day's log acquisition to today's log acquisition. In Figure 9, the attachment and detachment of the stacker refers to the attachment and detachment of either the recycling stacker 155 or 156. Furthermore, here we consider the case where cash loss occurs at the location indicated as cash loss (theft) among the events described in Figure 9.

[0077] For example, since the log acquisition date and time only reveal that the cash loss occurred between the previous log acquisition and the current log acquisition, the detection unit 104 designates period 401 as the suspected period. Even when power supply information is used, other events that occurred cannot be determined, so the detection unit 104 designates period 402 as the suspected period. Here, the administrator can understand that the cash loss occurred between the time of the previous log acquisition and the time of the current log acquisition when they receive the warning notification about the cash loss. Therefore, even if the administrator is notified that periods 401 and 402 are the suspected periods, it is difficult to pinpoint the exact time of the cash loss because these periods cover the entire period between log acquisitions.

[0078] In contrast, if the stacker attachment / detachment information is used, it is considered that the cash loss occurred while the recycling stacker 155 or 156 was detached, so the detection unit 104 can identify periods 403 and 404 as the suspected period. In this case, the administrator can identify that the cash loss occurred during period 403 or 404, which is a shorter period than the log acquisition interval. However, when the power to the cash handling device 1 is turned off, the attachment / detachment of the recycling stacker 155 or 156 is not recorded in the log. Therefore, in this case, it is difficult for the administrator to grasp the possibility of cash loss occurring when the power is off.

[0079] Therefore, by further using power supply information in addition to stacker attachment / detachment information, the detection unit 104 can detect that the recycle stacker 155 or 156 may have been removed even while the power was off, and period 405 to 407 can be designated as the suspected period. In this case, the administrator can identify that the cash loss occurred in any of period 405 to 407. In this case, since the theft occurred in period 405, the administrator can accurately and efficiently identify the cause of the cash loss even without using power supply information. However, if the theft occurred in period 406, for example, it may be difficult to identify the cause without using power supply information.

[0080] In this way, the detection unit 104 can narrow down the suspected period during which the cash loss occurred by using other log information to identify the period during which the recycle stacker 155 or 156 was removed. By notifying the suspected period during which the cash loss occurred, administrators can efficiently check operator information and surveillance camera recordings during the suspected period. Furthermore, by shortening the log acquisition cycle for detection, it is possible to further narrow down the suspected period during which the cash loss occurred.

[0081] The notification unit 105 receives instructions from the detection unit 104 to issue a warning about the loss of cash. The notification unit 105 then sends a message warning about the loss of cash to the host computer 2 via the communication processing unit 19. In this way, the notification unit 105 notifies the administrator of the cash handling device 1 of the loss of cash.

[0082] In this embodiment, the cash handling device 1 has been described as having a physical storage volume increase / decrease calculation unit 102, a logical storage volume increase / decrease calculation unit 103, a detection unit 104, and a notification unit 105. However, these may be separated and each placed in a different device. For example, it is possible to configure the device with the detection unit 104 and notification unit 105 located in the host computer 2. Alternatively, the detection unit 104 and notification unit 105 may be placed in a monitoring server that monitors the operation of the cash handling device 1, separate from the host computer 2 that manages information on cash handling. In that case, the host computer 2 or monitoring server where the detection unit 104 and notification unit 105 are located will acquire and store information used for detecting cash loss from the physical storage volume increase / decrease calculation unit 102, the logical storage volume increase / decrease calculation unit 103, and the storage unit 12 located in the cash handling device 1, and will use this information to detect and notify of cash loss.

[0083] Figure 10 is a flowchart of the cash loss detection process by the cash handling device according to the embodiment. Next, the flow of the cash loss detection process by the cash handling device 1 according to the embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 10.

[0084] The log acquisition unit 101 determines whether the timing for checking for lost cash, which is the timing for log acquisition, has arrived (step S1). If the timing for checking has not arrived (step S1: negative), the log acquisition unit 101 waits until the timing for checking arrives.

[0085] In response to this, if the inspection timing arrives (Step S1: Affirmative), the log acquisition unit 101 acquires new log data 523 from the log storage unit 522 of the cash processing unit 150 (Step S2). Then, the log acquisition unit 101 stores the existing latest log data 201 as the previous log data 202 in the storage unit 12, and stores the newly acquired log data 523 as the latest log data 201 in the storage unit 12.

[0086] The logical storage amount increase / decrease calculation unit 103 obtains the current logical storage amount for each roll 51 to 54 from the latest log data 201. The logical storage amount increase / decrease calculation unit 103 also obtains the previous logical storage amount for each roll 51 to 54 from the previous log data 202. Then, the logical storage amount increase / decrease calculation unit 103 subtracts the previous logical storage amount from the current logical storage amount to calculate the increase / decrease value of the logical storage amount for each roll 51 to 54 (step S3).

[0087] The physical storage capacity increase / decrease calculation unit 102 obtains information on the diameter of each roll 51 to 54 from the latest log data 201. Then, the physical storage capacity increase / decrease calculation unit 102 converts the obtained diameters into the number of banknotes using the conversion table 120 and calculates the physical storage capacity of each roll 51 to 54. After that, the physical storage capacity increase / decrease calculation unit 102 subtracts the previous physical storage capacity from the current physical storage capacity to calculate the increase / decrease value of the physical storage capacity of each roll 51 to 54 (step S4).

[0088] The detection unit 104 calculates the difference between the increase / decrease value of the logical storage amount and the increase / decrease value of the physical storage amount for each of the rolls 51 to 54 (step S5).

[0089] Next, the detection unit 104 determines whether the absolute value of the difference between the calculated increase / decrease value of the logical storage amount and the increase / decrease value of the physical storage amount is greater than or equal to the detection threshold (step S6).

[0090] If the absolute value of the difference is less than the detection threshold (step S6: negative), the cash loss detection process proceeds to step S8.

[0091] In response, if the absolute value of the difference is greater than or equal to the detection threshold (step S6: affirmative), the notification unit 105 sends a cash loss warning message to the host computer 2 via the communication processing unit 19. This allows the notification unit 105 to notify the administrator of the cash handling device 1 of the cash loss (step S7).

[0092] Subsequently, the log acquisition unit 101 determines whether or not to stop operation based on whether or not the power to the cash handling device 1 has been turned off (step S8). If operation is not stopped (step S8: negative), the cash loss detection process returns to step S1. On the other hand, if operation is stopped (step S8: positive), the log acquisition unit 101 terminates log collection and ends the cash loss detection process.

[0093] As described above, the cash handling device according to this embodiment calculates a logical increase / decrease in the number of banknotes stored, which is calculated from the inflow and outflow of banknotes to and from the recycling stacker obtained from the log, and a physical increase / decrease in the number of banknotes stored, which is obtained from physical quantities that fluctuate depending on the number of banknotes stored, such as the diameter of the roll. The cash handling device then detects the possibility of cash loss when the difference between the logical increase / decrease in the number of banknotes stored and the physical increase / decrease in the number of banknotes stored is greater than or equal to a threshold, and notifies a warning of cash loss.

[0094] In this way, the possibility of cash loss can be detected without a thorough examination, making it possible to perform the detection process quickly without removing cash from the cash handling unit. Furthermore, the possibility of cash loss can be detected at the time of log acquisition, shortening the time from the actual loss to detection, and making it easier to identify the cause of the cash loss and the date and time of the loss. Therefore, it is possible to enhance the security of the cash handling device.

[0095] (modified version) Figure 11 shows the difference in banknote storage methods between a roll-type banknote storage mechanism and a stack-type banknote collection mechanism. In the embodiment described above, a recycling stacker 155 having a roll-type banknote storage mechanism was used as an example. However, recycling stackers also exist that have a stack-type banknote storage mechanism in addition to the roll-type.

[0096] In Figure 11, the banknote storage mechanism 410 represents a roll type, and the banknote storage mechanism 420 represents a stacking type. In the roll-type banknote storage mechanism 410, as explained in the embodiment, as the amount of banknotes to be stored increases, the diameter of the roll changes from length L1 to length L2 and becomes longer.

[0097] In contrast, in the stacking type banknote storage mechanism 420, banknotes 422 are stacked inside the storage box 421. Therefore, in the stacking type banknote storage mechanism 420, as the amount of banknotes stored increases, the thickness of the stacked banknotes changes from length L3 to length L4 and becomes thicker.

[0098] Therefore, in the case of the stacking type banknote storage mechanism 420, a sensor is placed in the storage box 421 to detect the thickness of the banknotes stacked therein. The physical storage amount increase / decrease calculation unit 102 can calculate the physical storage amount by determining the number of banknotes stacked therein from the thickness of the banknotes detected by the sensor. In this case, the physical storage amount increase / decrease calculation unit 102 can use, for example, a conversion table to convert the thickness of the stacked banknotes into the number of banknotes. The physical storage amount increase / decrease calculation unit 102 can then calculate the increase / decrease value of the physical storage amount using the current value and the previous value of the physical storage amount obtained from the thickness of the banknotes.

[0099] As explained above, the modified cash handling device can detect the possibility of cash loss even when using a recycling stacker with a stacking-type banknote storage mechanism. Therefore, it is possible to enhance security even with a cash handling device equipped with a recycling stacker with a stacking-type banknote storage mechanism.

[0100] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the roll diameter was used as the physical quantity for determining the physical storage quantity in the case of a roll-type stacker, and the thickness of the banknotes was used in the case of a stacking-type stacker. However, the physical storage quantity is not limited to these, and other information may be used to determine the physical storage quantity as long as it is a physical quantity that changes according to the physical storage quantity. For example, the physical storage quantity increase / decrease calculation unit 102 may calculate the increase / decrease value of the physical storage quantity using the weight of the entire stacker in either the roll-type or stacking-type stacker. In this case, the logical storage quantity increase / decrease calculation unit 103 calculates the increase / decrease value of the physical storage quantity using the weight of the storage part itself, such as the roll 51 and the storage box 421, and a table that converts the weight into the number of banknotes. The detection unit 104 can detect cash loss by comparing the increase / decrease value of the physical storage quantity with the increase / decrease value of the logical storage quantity, as in each embodiment. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0101] 1. Cash handling device 2 Host computer 11 Main Control Unit 12 Storage section 13 Input section 14 Display section 15. Deposit and Withdrawal Processing Unit 16. Passbook Entry Processing Section 17. Card reader 18 Receipt Issuance Department 19 Communication Processing Unit 101 Log acquisition unit 102 Physical storage capacity increase / decrease calculation unit 103 Logical storage capacity increase / decrease calculation unit 104 Detection unit 105 Notification Department 150 Cash Processing Units 201 Latest log data 202 Previous log data 521 Log generation unit 522 Log storage unit 523 Log data

Claims

1. A banknote storage compartment for storing banknotes, A logical storage volume increase / decrease calculation unit calculates a first increase / decrease value based on banknote inflow / outflow information to the banknote storage unit, A physical storage volume increase / decrease calculation unit calculates a second increase / decrease value based on a physical quantity that changes according to the number of banknotes stored in the banknote storage compartment, A detection unit that detects the possibility of banknote loss based on the first increase / decrease value and the second increase / decrease value. A cash handling device characterized by being equipped with the following features.

2. The cash handling unit having the aforementioned banknote storage compartment is further provided with a log acquisition unit that periodically acquires logs of operations including the deposit and withdrawal information, The logical storage amount increase / decrease calculation unit calculates the first increase / decrease value based on the log acquired by the log acquisition unit. The cash handling device according to feature 1.

3. The aforementioned banknote storage compartment has a roll for winding and storing banknotes, The physical storage capacity increase / decrease calculation unit calculates the second increase / decrease value based on the diameter of the roll around which the banknotes are wound. The cash handling device according to feature 1.

4. The aforementioned banknote storage unit has storage boxes for stacking and storing banknotes, The physical storage capacity increase / decrease calculation unit calculates the second increase / decrease value based on the thickness of the banknotes stacked in the storage box. The cash handling device according to feature 1.

5. Based on the banknote inflow and outflow information for the banknote storage facility, the first increase / decrease value is calculated. A second increase / decrease value is calculated based on a physical quantity that changes according to the number of banknotes stored in the aforementioned banknote storage compartment. Based on the first and second increase / decrease values, the possibility of banknote loss is detected. A cash handling method characterized by having a computer perform the processing.

6. Based on the banknote inflow and outflow information for the banknote storage, the first increase / decrease value is calculated. A second increase / decrease value is calculated based on a physical quantity that changes according to the number of banknotes stored in the aforementioned banknote storage compartment. Based on the first and second increase / decrease values, the possibility of banknote loss is detected. A cash handling program characterized by having a computer perform the processing.

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