Variable transporting arrangement and input and output device for an apparatus for handling notes of value

Abstract

A variable transporting arrangement (200) for transporting notes of value (13) to a note-of-value-stacking unit (206) of an apparatus (100) for handling notes of value comprises at least two transporting-path units (202, 204), which together form a transporting path (208) for transporting the notes of value (13). The transporting path (208) extends from an entry region (214) to a transfer region (218) and the notes of value (13) can be transferred to the note-of-value-stacking unit (206) in the transfer region (218). The at least two transporting-path units (202, 204) are arranged so as to be movable in relation to one another. Furthermore, at least one of the transporting-path units (202, 204) can be moved at least between a first operating position and a second operating position, and the transfer region (218) can be moved accordingly. The invention further relates to an input and output compartment (600), to a corresponding apparatus (100) and to a control method.

Description

[0001] Variable transport arrangement and input / output device for a device for handling banknotes

[0002] The invention relates to a flexible transport arrangement for transporting vouchers and an input and output device with a movable voucher stacking unit.

[0003] Devices for handling banknotes, especially recycling ATMs, can have various functions and can be used, for example, for depositing and dispensing banknotes. The banknotes are processed using various functional units. For example, sensors can identify or verify the banknotes after they are deposited. Furthermore, the banknotes can be temporarily stored in memory units. Similarly, when dispensing, the banknotes can be separated, checked (for example, to ensure the correct number or face value), and presented for payment.

[0004] The banknotes are transported within the device along transport routes, thus connecting the various functional units. To ensure the secure transport of the banknotes between the functional units, it is particularly necessary that the banknotes are transferred to the functional units securely and efficiently. The purpose of this invention is to specify an arrangement for a device for handling banknotes that enables the secure and efficient transfer of banknotes.

[0005] This problem is solved by a transport arrangement with the features of claim 1. Advantageous further developments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0006] A variable transport arrangement for transporting valuables – specifically, a note stacking unit of a note handling device – comprises at least two transport path units that together form a transport path for transporting the notes. The transport path extends from an infeed area to a transfer area, and the notes can be transferred to the note stacking unit in the transfer area. With the help of the note stacking unit, notes can, for example, be stacked on top of each other.Each transport path unit comprises a first transport path boundary element and a second transport path boundary element, each arranged and spaced relative to the other such that a transport path segment is formed between the transport path boundary elements, and that vouchers can be transported along the transport path between the infeed and outfeed areas between the transport path boundary elements of each transport path unit. The at least two transport path units are arranged to be movable relative to each other. Furthermore, at least one of the transport path units, or the first of the transport path units, is movable at least between a first operating position and a second operating position, and the outfeed area is movable accordingly, in particular, the outfeed area moves along with it.

[0007] The movement of at least one of the transport path units between the operating positions and the corresponding movement of the transfer area enables flexible connection of the transport path of the transport arrangement to other voucher processing units, such as a voucher stacking unit. This is particularly relevant if the other unit is regularly located in different positions within the operation, and the distance to a voucher-carrying transport path cannot easily be bridged by a voucher being transported. In this way, the transport path of the transport arrangement can be variably adapted, ensuring the secure transport and processing of vouchers.

[0008] The movement of at least one of the transport units between the operating positions occurs, in particular, relative to the infeed area. The transfer area follows the movement of at least one of the transport units accordingly. Thus, at least one of the transport units, and consequently the transfer area, is positioned at different distances from the infeed area in the first and second operating positions. In particular, the distance of the transfer area from the infeed area is variable. Furthermore, the position of the transfer area during the movement between the first and second operating positions does not describe a circular arc around the infeed area. The at least two transport units can be moved relative to each other, thus allowing the distance of the transfer area to the infeed area to be variable.For example, the transport path section of one of the transport path units ends at one end at the transfer area, so that vouchers from the transport path section in the transfer area can be transferred to the voucher stacking unit. A second end of the transport path section of one of the transport path units ends at the end of at least two transport path units, so that vouchers from the first transport path unit can be transferred to the second transport path unit. The second transport path unit can then, for example, end in the infeed area with an end of the transport path section of the second transport path unit facing away from the first transport path unit. The infeed area, or the end of the second transport path unit facing away from the first, must be specifically defined.

[0009] Optionally, the transport arrangement can include further transport path units that form additional transport path segments. This allows the banknotes to be safely transported from the infeed area along the transport path to the transfer area using these transport path units, especially when the distance between the infeed and transfer areas varies.

[0010] Preferably, the transport arrangement comprises two transport path units.

[0011] The individual transport path units can be displaceable or tiltable relative to each other, particularly along the transport path. Furthermore, adjacent transport path units can overlap at least partially or in at least one of their operating positions along the transport path.

[0012] The transport route is continuous between the infeed and outfeed areas, using transport route units. Furthermore, the vouchers can be transported continuously along the transport route between the infeed and outfeed areas, regardless of their position within the system. A transport direction is specifically defined from the infeed to the outfeed area.

[0013] The inlet area defines, in particular, an area in which valuable items can enter or be transferred from the handling device into the transport path of the transport arrangement. For example, another transport path of the device can connect to the transport path of the transport arrangement in the inlet area.

[0014] The transfer area defines in particular an area in which vouchers can exit the transport path of the transport arrangement and be transferred to other units of the device for handling vouchers, for example the voucher stacking unit.

[0015] Thus, the infeed area and the transfer area can each define interfaces to other units of the device for handling banknotes.

[0016] The securities, for example banknotes, are preferably transported individually along the transport route; that is, preferably individual securities are transported one after the other. A variable transport arrangement preferably includes a securities stacking unit, wherein the securities stacking unit is arranged relative to the transfer area such that securities from the transport route can be picked up at the transfer area by the securities stacking unit and stacked with it. This enables a secure transfer of the securities to the securities stacking unit and efficient stacking of the securities.

[0017] In particular, the note stacking unit moves in parallel with one of the transport path units. For example, the note stacking unit is rigidly connected to the transport arrangement, specifically to one of the transport path units that is movable between the first and second operating positions. Thus, the note stacking unit is also movable between the first and second operating positions. The note stacking unit also moves with the transfer area.

[0018] Preferably, the banknote stacking unit comprises at least one (rotatable) wheel with pockets around its circumference, each of which can at least partially hold one of the banknotes. This allows for the secure transfer of the banknotes from the transport system at the handover point. For example, the wheel can be a so-called stacker wheel.

[0019] Preferably, the transport arrangement includes at least one drive element for transporting the banknotes along the transport path. This allows the banknotes to be transported in a controlled manner along the transport path. The drive element comprises, or is, for example, a driven circulating or endless conveyor belt. In this way, the banknotes can be transported along the transport path by means of static friction between the conveyor belt and the banknotes.

[0020] Preferably, the at least one drive element is one of the transport path limiting elements; in particular, one of the transport path limiting elements comprises the at least one drive element. This enables a simple design of the transport arrangement.

[0021] Preferably, each transport path unit comprises at least two drive elements for transporting the banknotes along the transport path. In particular, the two drive elements of each transport path unit are arranged opposite each other, so that the banknotes can be transported safely between the drive elements of a transport path unit. For example, the drive elements are driven conveyor belts, each running in the transport direction.

[0022] In one embodiment, the transport arrangement comprises eight conveyor belts, wherein any two of the conveyor belts are or are encompassed by a transport path limiting element. For example, a first transport path limiting element of the first of the transport path units comprises or is comprised of two parallel conveyor belts. Likewise, a second transport path limiting element of the first of the transport path units comprises or is comprised of two parallel conveyor belts. The parallel conveyor belts of one of the transport path units are each arranged such that they are opposite each other with respect to the transport path section, and the transport path section in which the banknotes can be transported by means of the conveyor belts is formed between the conveyor belts.

[0023] Furthermore, the transport path limiting elements may optionally include additional guiding or conveying elements, for example transport rollers, which may be arranged at least partially in the transport path.

[0024] Preferably, one of the transport path units, in particular the second transport path unit, is rotatably or pivotably mounted about a pivot axis in the inlet area. This allows for flexible movement of the transport path units and a flexible selection of the first and second operating positions. In particular, the transport path unit can be mounted such that the transport path is movable or articulated perpendicular to the transport direction, in particular to a plane of the transport path.

[0025] Preferably, the transport path units are slidable relative to each other along the transport path. This enables a compact and space-saving design. Furthermore, this allows the length of the transport path of the transport arrangement to be varied. For example, the transport path units can be slid into one another. Thus, the transport path units, especially those adjacent in the transport direction, can be extended linearly.

[0026] Preferably, the transport arrangement comprises a traversing unit configured to move at least one of the transport path units between the first operating position and the second operating position. This enables precise and reliable positioning of the transport path unit. In particular, one of the transport path units can thus be moved between the first operating position and the second operating position.

[0027] In another aspect, an input and output device for a securities handling apparatus is specified. The input and output device is specifically designed for the input and output of securities to or from a person who wishes to deposit or withdraw securities to the apparatus. The input and output device comprises an input and output compartment and a dispensing unit for dispensing securities from the input and output compartment. Furthermore, the input and output device includes a securities stacking unit for stacking securities in the input and output compartment. The securities stacking unit is movable at least between a first operating position and a second operating position, and in particular, movable relative to the dispensing unit.

[0028] The input and output compartment may in particular include a lockable opening to enable persons wishing to make a deposit or withdrawal to insert or remove deposited or withdrawn vouchers from the compartment.

[0029] The dispensing unit enables, in particular, the removal and / or singulation of banknotes from a stack of banknotes arranged in the input / output tray. For this purpose, the dispensing unit can, for example, include at least one dispensing roller that is in contact with the stack of banknotes arranged in the input / output tray and can feed the banknotes (individually) to the banknote handling device via a transport path. The banknote stacking unit enables the stacking of banknotes to the banknote stack in the input / output tray. For this purpose, the banknote stacking unit can include at least one (rotatable) wheel that has pockets around its circumference, each of which can at least partially hold one of the banknotes. The banknotes can be picked up from a transport path and each pocket placed in one of the pockets, and then, after rotation of the wheel, deposited onto the banknote stack.For example, the wheel could be a so-called stacker wheel.

[0030] The input and output device allows for the insertion of vouchers into the compartment in the form of a stack of vouchers, and subsequently the removal of individual vouchers from the stack. The individual vouchers can then be transferred to the voucher handling device for further processing. Furthermore, vouchers can be dispensed from the same compartment in the form of a stack of vouchers.

[0031] In particular, the input and output device is configured such that a stack of banknotes is or is arranged in the input and output compartment between the banknote stacking unit and the printing unit. For example, the stack of banknotes is or is arranged such that the banknotes in the stack are oriented with either their back or front facing the banknote stacking unit or the printing unit.

[0032] The input and output device enables the processing of deposited and withdrawn vouchers. In particular, the movable voucher stacking unit allows for the secure stacking of vouchers in the input and output tray. For example, it is possible to securely remove vouchers from a single stack of vouchers in the input and output tray and add more by stacking them. This can be done either sequentially or simultaneously.

[0033] This is made possible in particular by the movable voucher stacking unit. The operating position of the voucher stacking unit can thus be selected depending on the number of vouchers in a voucher stack in the input / output tray, for example during a deposit transaction, so that the voucher stacking unit is positioned particularly close to the voucher stack. By withdrawing vouchers using the withdrawal unit, the voucher stack can be reduced in size, and the operating position of the voucher stacking unit can be adjusted to the changed size, especially the height, of the voucher stack. The voucher stacking unit can therefore be moved so that the distance between the voucher stacking unit and the voucher stack remains constant. Vouchers can thus also be placed particularly close to one end of the voucher stack.

[0034] Furthermore, the movable banknote stacking unit allows for the secure addition of banknotes to the same stack in the input / output tray from which banknotes have already been withdrawn. For example, banknotes that were not recognized, particularly by the banknote handling device, or that were identified as foreign currency or counterfeit, can be returned to the same stack in the input / output tray. There, the added banknotes can either be withdrawn again and identified once more using the handling device, or returned to the depositor by opening the input / output tray. This eliminates the need for a separate output tray, thus enabling a particularly compact design.

[0035] Thus, the movement of the security note stacking unit to different operating positions enables a safe and efficient transfer of security notes from the security note stacking unit to the security note stack in the input and output tray.

[0036] Preferably, the input and output device comprises the variable transport arrangement, wherein the note stacking unit of the variable transport arrangement is the note stacking unit of the input and output device. This enables the safe and efficient transport and transfer of notes to the note stacking unit. Furthermore, the note stacking unit can be movable together with one of the transport path units; in particular, the note stacking unit can be connected to one of the transport path units.

[0037] Preferably, the note stacking unit is arranged at a first distance from the dispensing unit in the first operating position and at a second distance from the dispensing unit in the second operating position, the first distance being greater than the second distance. This allows for efficient movement of the note stacking unit as the height of the note stack changes.

[0038] Preferably, the note stacking unit is arranged, at least in the second operating position, such that it exerts a pressure force on the dispensing unit. In particular, a stack of notes can be arranged between the note stacking unit and the dispensing unit. This allows the note stacking unit to indirectly exert a pressure force on the dispensing unit via the stack of notes, for example, by pressing the stack of notes against the dispensing unit. This enables the reliable dispensing of notes from the stack of notes using the dispensing unit.

[0039] Furthermore, at least one wheel of the banknote stacking unit can be designed to exert a uniform pressure force on the stack of banknotes. This ensures that the stack of banknotes is pressed evenly against the dispensing unit and that banknotes are reliably dispensed.

[0040] Furthermore, at least one wheel, in particular an outward-facing circumferential surface of the wheel, of the banknote stacking unit can be designed to have low friction with the banknotes. This allows the wheel to rotate over the banknote stack while simultaneously pressing the banknote stack against the release unit.

[0041] In another aspect, a device for handling banknotes is specified. The device comprises the variable transport arrangement and / or the input and output unit. The device may, for example, include additional transport paths so that banknotes withdrawn by the withdrawal unit can be fed to the transport arrangement's transport path and thus stacked again in the input and output tray by the banknote stacking unit. Alternatively, the input and output unit may include these additional transport paths. Furthermore, the device for handling banknotes or the input and output unit may include units for identifying or verifying banknotes arranged along these additional transport paths. These units may, for example, include optical or electronic sensors capable of determining characteristics of the transported banknotes.

[0042] Preferably, the device for handling banknotes comprises only a single input and output device, in particular only a single input and output compartment. The input and output device enables the secure input and output of banknotes using this single input and output compartment. This allows for a particularly compact design of the device.

[0043] Another aspect concerns a method for controlling the input and output device, comprising the following steps: moving the security stacking unit towards the pull unit, in particular to exert a pressure on the pull unit; pulling security notes from a security stack into the input and output tray; and stacking security notes in the input and output tray using the security stacking unit.

[0044] The process enables the secure stacking of value notes onto a stack in the input / output tray, as well as the secure removal of value notes from the same stack. In particular, the removal and stacking steps can be performed simultaneously.

[0045] The step of moving the security note stacking unit can at least include moving the security note stacking unit from the first operating position to the second operating position. Furthermore, the procedure in the step of moving the security note stacking unit can also move the variable transport arrangement, in particular in parallel with the security note stacking unit.

[0046] For example, the voucher stacking unit may be extended from the input / output tray in its first operating position, allowing a person wishing to deposit vouchers to insert them into the open input / output tray. Particularly after the input / output tray is closed, the voucher stacking unit can be moved towards the take-off unit, so that the vouchers forming a stack and arranged between the voucher stacking unit and the take-off unit are pressed against the take-off unit by the voucher stacking unit. The vouchers can then be removed from the stack, particularly individually, by the take-off unit and, for example, fed to a voucher handling device for further processing via transport channels.For example, the device for handling securities can be used to check the securities and, among other things, to determine their face value.

[0047] However, it is possible that individual vouchers cannot be identified as such, or that their respective face value cannot be determined. In this case, these unidentified vouchers can be reintroduced to the input / output tray using the voucher stacking unit and / or the variable transport arrangement and stacked in the input / output tray. Alternatively, the vouchers can be stored in the handling device. For example, the voucher handling device may include suitable sensors, transport paths, and voucher storage.

[0048] The method can also include steps for controlling the device for handling banknotes. For example, the method can include detecting features of the banknotes using optical or electronic sensors. Furthermore, the method can include controlling transport paths so that banknotes are either stored in the device for handling banknotes or returned to the input / output tray. This can be implemented, in particular, depending on the detected features of the banknotes.

[0049] The feeding and stacking of unidentified vouchers can be performed simultaneously with the peeling of the vouchers. During peeling and any simultaneous stacking, the voucher stacking unit and / or the variable transport arrangement can be moved to different operating positions, in particular so that a pressure force is continuously exerted on the voucher stack against the peeling unit. A change in the height of the voucher stack due to a change in the number of vouchers in the stack can thus be compensated for or taken into account. In particular, the variable transport arrangement and / or the input and output device can include a sensor with which the pressure force can be determined. Thus, the operating position can be selected or controlled so that a constant pressure force is exerted in the direction of the peeling unit.Unidentified vouchers transported back into the input / output tray can then either be withdrawn again and an attempt can be made to re-identify the features of the vouchers, or the unidentified vouchers can be returned to the depositing person in the input / output tray.

[0050] The procedure thus enables efficient return, especially of unidentified vouchers, without the need to temporarily store vouchers or to first remove all vouchers from the input and output tray before further vouchers can be stacked in the input and output tray.

[0051] The input and output device and the device for handling vouchers can each include a control unit which is configured to control the input and output device or the device for handling vouchers, for example according to the described method.

[0052] The input and output device and the device for handling value appear to be further developed with features of the variable transport arrangement, in particular with the features of the dependent claims directed to the variable transport arrangement.

[0053] Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, which, in conjunction with the accompanying figures, explains exemplary embodiments in more detail. These show:

[0054] Fig. 1 shows a schematic side view of a device for handling valuable items.

[0055] Fig. 2 shows a schematic side view of a variable transport arrangement in an operating position,

[0056] Fig. 3 shows a schematic top view of the variable transport arrangement according to Fig. 2.

[0057] Fig. 4 shows a schematic side view of the variable transport arrangement in another operating position,

[0058] Fig. 5 shows a schematic top view of the variable transport arrangement according to Fig. 4.

[0059] Fig. 6 shows a schematic side view of an input and output device in an operating position with the variable transport arrangement, and Fig. 7 shows a schematic side view of the input and output device in another operating position.

[0060] Figure 1 shows a schematic side view of a device 100 for handling banknotes. The device 100 serves both for the deposit of banknotes by an operator and for the dispensing of banknotes to an operator and is also referred to as a recycling ATM. Alternatively, the device 100 can also serve exclusively for the dispensing of banknotes or the deposit of banknotes. Furthermore, the device 100 can be an automatic cash register system, a self-checkout terminal, or a so-called automatic safe terminal.

[0061] The device 100 comprises a safe 10 in which four cash boxes 12a to 12d are arranged and which protects the cash boxes 12a to 12d from unauthorized access, in particular from theft and manipulation attempts. The safe 10 has a safe door 34 which can be opened and closed by means of a locking unit 36. The cash boxes 12a to 12d are each arranged in a receiving compartment 32a to 32d in the safe 10. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the cash boxes 12a to 12d are arranged horizontally in the device 100. In other devices for handling banknotes, the cash boxes 12a to 12d can alternatively be arranged vertically.

[0062] Cash boxes 12a to 12d can be removed from the device 100 and serve for the storage and transport of securities, in particular banknotes and / or checks. The securities are stored in cash boxes 12a to 12d in the form of a stack. One of these stacks is indicated, for example, in the first cash box 12a. One of the securities in this stack is designated, for example, by the reference numeral 13. In the operating position of the cash boxes 12a to 12d shown in Figure 1, the securities 13 are arranged upright in the cash boxes 12a to 12d on one of their edges, preferably on one of their longitudinal edges.

[0063] Each cash box 12a to 12d has an opening for inserting and removing banknotes 13. In front of the opening of each cash box 12a to 12d, a singulation and stacking unit 14a to 14d is arranged, with the aid of which, on the one hand, banknotes 13 can be inserted into the cash boxes 12a to 12d and, on the other hand, banknotes 13 stored in the cash boxes 12a to 12d can be separated from the stacks of banknotes held in the cash boxes 12a to 12d and removed from the cash box 12a to 12d.In front of each singulation and stacking unit 14a to 14d, a switch 16a to 16d is arranged, with the help of which a security note 13 to be supplied to the cash boxes 12a to 12d is diverted from a transport route or transport path 18 and supplied to the singulation and stacking unit 14a to 14d which is arranged in front of the cash box 12a to 12d into which the security note 13 is to be transported.

[0064] Likewise, switches 16a to 16d serve to transport banknotes 13 removed from cash boxes 12a to 12d to transport path 18. The safe 10 also has an opening 20 through which banknotes 13 transported along transport path 18 can be transported into or out of the safe 10.

[0065] Furthermore, the device 100 includes an input and output unit comprising an input and output compartment 22, through which a person operating the device 100 can input and dispense vouchers 13. In a pure dispensing ATM, only the dispensing of vouchers 13 takes place via the input and output compartment 22; in a pure depositing ATM, only the depositing of vouchers 13 takes place via the input and output compartment 22.

[0066] The vouchers 13 deposited via the input / output tray 22 are individually fed along a transport path 24 to a reading unit 26, which can be used to determine, for example, the authenticity, face value, and / or serial number of each deposited voucher 13. Furthermore, deposited and / or withdrawn vouchers 13 can be temporarily stored in a buffer 30. In particular, the buffer 30 can temporarily store vouchers 13 that are unsuitable for withdrawal and / or vouchers 13 that have been identified as counterfeit by the reading unit 26, or vouchers 13 that have not been removed by an operator.

[0067] The banknotes (13) can be transported along transport paths 18 and 24 using transport units. In particular, banknotes already in circulation can be transported along transport paths 18 and 24 using transport units in recycling ATMs.

[0068] In particular, the device 100 can be configured to transport banknotes 13 from the input / output tray 22 along the transport path 24 to the reading unit 24 and back to the input / output tray 22. For this purpose, the device 100 can also include further switches and / or transport paths to transport the banknotes back to the input / output tray 22.

[0069] Figures 2 to 5 show schematic views of a variable transport arrangement 200. The variable transport arrangement 200 comprises at least a first transport path unit 202, a second transport path unit 204, and a value dummy stacking unit 206, which is shown in the figures as a stacker wheel.

[0070] Figure 2 shows a schematic side view of the variable transport arrangement 200 in a first operating position. In the first operating position, the two transport path units 202, 204 are pushed together. Each of the transport path units 202, 204 comprises four transport belts, between which a continuous transport path 208 is formed. The banknotes 13, in particular individually, can be transported along the transport path 208.

[0071] In particular, the first transport path unit 202 comprises two upper conveyor belts 210a, 210b and two lower conveyor belts 210c, 210d, which are arranged one behind the other in the side view according to Fig. 2j. A first transport path section of the transport path 208 is formed between the upper conveyor belts 210a, 210b and the lower conveyor belts 210c, 210d.

[0072] Accordingly, the second transport path unit 204 can comprise two upper conveyor belts 212a, 212b and two lower conveyor belts 212c, 212d. A second transport path section of the transport path 208 is formed between the upper conveyor belts 212a, 212b and the lower conveyor belts 212c, 212d. Thus, banknotes 13 can be transported along both the first and the second transport path sections.

[0073] The conveyor belts 210a to 210d, 212a to 212d can be continuous endless belts which can be moved along the transport path 208, in particular along a transport direction of the transport path 208, by means of two deflection rollers each.

[0074] For example, the conveyor belts can be driven by means of the deflection rollers and the banknotes 13 can be moved and thus transported between the upper conveyor belts 210a, 210b, 212a, 212b and the lower conveyor belts 210c, 210d, 212c, 212d using the conveyor belts 210a to 210d, 212a to 212d.

[0075] In particular, the vouchers 13 can be transferred from a previous transport path 216 to transport path 208 in an infeed area 214 and transported along transport path 208. Transport path 208 then ends in a transfer area 218, where the vouchers 13 transported along transport path 208 can be transferred to the voucher stacking unit 206. Arrows Pl and P2 indicate, in particular, the transport direction in which the vouchers 13 can be transported. The circulating conveyor belts 210a to 210d and 212a to 212d each run with their portion facing transport path 208 in the direction of transport.

[0076] The note stacking unit 206 comprises, in particular, at least one wheel 220 which has several pockets 222 around its circumference. The pockets 222 are designed to receive note certificates 13 which have been transported from the infeed area 214 to the transfer area 218 by means of the transport path units 202, 204. In the transfer area 218, the note certificates 13 can be inserted into one of the pockets 222 and, by rotating the wheel 220 about a pivot axis 223, transported along the circumference of the wheel 220 and deposited onto a note stack.

[0077] The wheel 220 is rigidly connected to the first transport path unit 202, so that the first transport path unit 202, the transfer area 218 and the wheel 220 cannot move relative to each other and are rigidly arranged relative to each other.

[0078] The variable transport arrangement 200 can further comprise a traversing unit designed and configured to move at least the first transport path unit 202 into different operating positions. For example, the traversing unit comprises a rack 224 along which at least the first transport path unit 202 can be moved into different operating positions. This is explained in more detail in connection with Figures 4 and 5.

[0079] The second transport unit 204 can be rotatably mounted about a pivot axis. For example, the second transport unit 204 can be rotatably mounted on bearings 226a, 226b, so that when the first transport unit 202 moves along the rack 224, the second transport unit 204 can buckle in the direction of movement.

[0080] Figure 3 shows a schematic top view of the variable transport arrangement 200 in the first operating position. The transport unit can include a gear 300 in addition to the rack 224, which engages with the rack 224. The transport unit can further include a drive by means of which the gear 300 can be driven, so that at least the first transport path unit 202 is movable along the rack 224. Since the gear 220 is connected to the first transport path unit 202, the gear is moved accordingly when the first transport path unit 202 is moved.

[0081] Figure 4 shows a schematic side view of the variable transport arrangement 200 in a second operating position. Figure 5 shows a corresponding schematic top view of the variable transport arrangement 200 in the second operating position. Compared to the first operating position (see Figures 2 and 3), the first transport path unit 202 and the wheel 220 are moved along the rack 224 in the second operating position. Furthermore, the transfer area 218 is moved accordingly in the second operating position.

[0082] The movement, in particular of the first transport unit 202, makes it possible to connect various note-processing units of the device 100 with one another, so that notes can be transferred between the units even if their position changes during operation. This flexible connection also ensures the secure transport of the notes.

[0083] When the first transport unit 202 is moved, the second transport unit 204 remains stationary; only rotation of the second transport unit 204 around the bearings 226a, 226b is possible. The first and second transport units 202, 204 can move relative to each other, particularly linearly, so that the respective conveyor belts 210a to 210d, 212a to 212d can also move linearly relative to each other, and the transport path 208 has different lengths depending on the operating position. The transport path 208 extends between the infeed area 214 and the transfer area 218 preferably in one plane.

[0084] In particular, the first transport unit 202 comprises a first frame 500 and the second transport unit 204 comprises a second frame 502. The deflection rollers of the respective conveyor belts 210a to 210d, 212a to 212d are rotatably mounted on the frames 500, 502. The conveyor belts 210a to 210d, 212a to 212d of the respective transport unit 202, 204 can be arranged on the frames 500, 502 offset in one direction perpendicular to the direction of transport, so that the conveyor belts are arranged parallel and side by side in the direction of transport. This allows the transport track units 202, 204 to move relative to each other without the conveyor belts 210a to 210d, 212a to 212d colliding, particularly in the first operating position. Preferably, the frames 500, 502 are mounted relative to each other or within each other, so that frames 500, 502 are movable relative to each other along the plane of the transport track 208.

[0085] Figures 6 and 7 show views of an input and output device 600 in various operating positions. The input and output device 600 comprises the variable transport arrangement 200, in particular the first and second transport path units 202, 204 and the voucher stacking unit 206.

[0086] In an alternative design form, the input and output device 600 comprises only the note stacking unit 206 without the first and second transport path units 202, 204.

[0087] The input and output device 600 further comprises an input and output compartment 602, which is configured to receive several banknotes 13 in the form of a stack of banknotes. The input and output compartment 602 includes a lockable opening through which an operator has external access to the input and output compartment 602, for example, during a deposit or withdrawal transaction. The opening can be closed by means of a closure 604. Figures 6 and 7 show the input and output compartment 602 in a closed state.

[0088] Furthermore, the input and output device 600 comprises a dispensing unit with which the vouchers 13 can be individually dispensed from the stack of vouchers arranged in the input and output compartment and fed to a transport path 608. The dispensing unit comprises at least one dispensing roller 606. With the aid of the dispensing roller 606, the voucher 13 of the stack of vouchers that is in contact with the dispensing roller 606 can be conveyed in the direction of the transport path 608. For this purpose, the dispensing roller 606 can rotate counterclockwise, in particular by means of a drive unit.

[0089] The input and output device 600 can, for example, be part of the device 100, in particular as the input and output device 22. The transport path 608 can, for example, be one of the transport paths 18, 24 of the device 100 or be connected to it, so that vouchers 13 from the input and output device 600 can be further processed by the device 100. This can, for example, include checking features of the withdrawn vouchers 13 using the reading unit 26 or storing the vouchers 13 in the intermediate storage 30 or in one of the cash boxes 12a to 12d.

[0090] With the aid of the security note stacking unit 206, in particular the wheel 220, security notes 13 can be stacked in the input and output tray 602, in particular fed to the stack of security notes already arranged in the input and output tray. The security notes 13 are fed individually to an end of the stack of security notes that is opposite the end of the stack of security notes adjacent to the extraction unit 606.

[0091] The banknotes 13, which are to be stacked using the banknote stacking unit 206, can be fed to the wheel 220 via the transport path 216 and the transport path 208 of the variable transport arrangement 200 and deposited in the input and output compartment 602 by rotating the wheel 220. The rotation of the wheel 220 can be clockwise. Furthermore, the wheel 220 can be driven by a drive unit.

[0092] For example, transport route 216 can be one of the transport routes 18, 24 of the device 100 or connect to it.

[0093] Figure 6 is a schematic side view of the input and output device 600 in a second operating position, in particular the second operating position of the variable transport arrangement 200 .

[0094] In the second operating position already described above, the variable transport arrangement 200 is moved and positioned such that the wheel 220 exerts a pressure force on the stack of banknotes arranged in the input and output tray 620 in the direction of the take-off roller 606. This enables the banknotes 13 to be reliably removed from the stack of banknotes.

[0095] Figure 7 is a schematic side view of the input and output device 600 in a first operating position, in particular the first operating position of the variable transport arrangement 200 .

[0096] In the first operating position, the two transport path units 202, 204 of the variable transport arrangement 200 are shifted relative to one another, so that the transport path 208 is shorter than in the second operating position. Accordingly, the distance between the note stacking unit 206, in particular the wheel 220, and the take-off unit, in particular the take-off roller 606, is increased compared to the second operating position. This first operating position allows, for example, the operator to easily insert notes, especially stacks, into the input and output tray. As shown in Figure 7, the notes 13 can be arranged more loosely in the first operating position. Only the movement into the second operating position presses the notes 13 of the note stack against the take-off roller 606 to allow the notes 13 to be dispensed.

[0097] Furthermore, moving the note stacking unit 206 into different operating positions and thus accordingly lengthening or shortening the length of the transport path 208 enables the flexible adaptation of the input and output device 600 to a different number of notes 13 in the input and output compartment.

[0098] For example, the operating position of the note stacking unit 206, and thus its distance to the take-off roller 606, can be selected such that a specific, in particular preset, contact force of the notes 13 against the take-off roller 606 is achieved. As notes 13 are withdrawn, the number of notes 13 in the note stack in the input and output tray 602 decreases, thus reducing the height of the note stack. The input and output device 600, in particular the note stacking unit 206, can be controlled such that the note stacking unit 206 moves towards the take-off roller 606.

[0099] Furthermore, the input and output device 600 enables the stacking of vouchers 13 onto the voucher stack using the voucher stacking unit 206, particularly while vouchers 13 are being withdrawn from the voucher stack. In this case as well, the input and output device 600, and in particular the voucher stacking unit 206, can be controlled so that the voucher stacking unit 206 moves towards the take-off roller 606. If a greater number of vouchers 13 are added to the voucher stack than are withdrawn, and the height of the voucher stack increases, the voucher stacking unit 206 can also be moved away from the take-off roller 606.

[0100] The simultaneous removal and stacking of vouchers 13 in the input and output tray 602 is particularly relevant when vouchers 13 that have been checked with the help of the reading unit 26, but which are not identifiable, for example, are to be fed directly back into the input and output tray 602, so that the vouchers 13 can be presented to the depositing operator immediately and returned to them.

[0101] The input and output unit 600, in particular the variable transport arrangement 200, thus enables a particularly secure and flexible transport and subsequent transfer of vouchers 13. Furthermore, the input and output unit 600, in particular the variable transport arrangement 200, enables the secure removal and stacking of vouchers 13 in a single input and output tray, especially the simultaneous removal and stacking of vouchers 13 in a single input and output tray. Reference numeral list

[0102] 10 safe

[0103] 12a to 12d Cash box

[0104] 13 vouchers

[0105] 14a to 14d Stacking / Singling unit

[0106] 16a to 16d Switch

[0107] 18 Transport route

[0108] 20 Opening in the safe

[0109] 22 Input / Output Tray

[0110] 24 Transport route

[0111] 26 Reading Unit

[0112] 28 Control unit

[0113] 32a to 32d Recording subject

[0114] 30 buffers

[0115] 34 Safe door

[0116] 36 locking units

[0117] 100 devices for handling valuable items

[0118] 200 Variable Transport Arrangement

[0119] 202 First transport route unit

[0120] 204 Second transport route unit

[0121] 206 stacks of banknotes

[0122] 208 Transport route of the transport order

[0123] 210a , 210b ,

[0124] 210c, 210d Conveyor belts of the first transport unit

[0125] 212a , 212b ,

[0126] 212c, 212d Conveyor belts of the second transport unit

[0127] 214 Inlet area Previous transport route, for example from the device for handling valuables

[0128] handover area

[0129] (Stacker) wheel

[0130] bags of the bike

[0131] Rack a , 226b Bearing of the second transport unit Gear

[0132] framework of the first transport route unit

[0133] framework of the second transport route unit

[0134] Input and output device

[0135] Input and output tray

[0136] Locking mechanism for the input and output tray; trigger roller

[0137] Transport route, in particular to the device for handling value, appear to

Claims

Claims 1. Variable transport arrangement (200) for transporting security notes (13) to a security note stacking unit (206) of a device (100) for handling security notes, comprising at least two transport path units (202, 204) which together form a transport path (208) for transporting the security notes (13), wherein the transport path (208) extends from an inlet area (214) to a transfer area (218) and the security notes (13) can be transferred to the security note stacking unit (206) in the transfer area (218), wherein each of the transport path units (202, 204) comprises a first transport path limiting element and a second transport path limiting element, which are each arranged and spaced apart from each other,that a transport path section is formed between the transport path limiting elements and that between the transport path limiting elements, vouchers (13) can be transported along the transport path (208) between the inlet area (214) and the transfer area (218), wherein the at least two transport path units (202, 204) are arranged to be movable relative to each other, and wherein at least one of the transport path units (202) is movable at least between a first operating position and a second operating position and the transfer area (218) is movable accordingly.

2. Variable transport arrangement according to claim 1, comprising the note stacking unit (206) , wherein the note stacking unit (206) is arranged to the transfer area (218) such that notes (13) from the transport path (208) can be picked up at the transfer area (218) with the help of the note stacking unit (206) and the notes (13) can be stacked.

3. Variable transport arrangement according to claim 2, wherein the note stacking unit (206) comprises at least one wheel (220) which has pockets (222) around its circumference in which each of the notes (13) can be at least partially received.

4. Variable transport arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one drive element for transporting the banknotes along the transport path (208) .

5. Variable transport arrangement according to claim 4, wherein the at least one drive element is one of the transport path limiting elements.

6. Variable transport arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 4 to 5, wherein each of the transport path units (202, 204) comprises at least two of the drive elements for transporting the banknotes along the transport path (208).

7. Variable transport arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein one of the transport path units (204) is rotatably mounted about a rotational axis in the inlet area (214).

8. Variable transport arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transport path units (202, 204) are movable relative to each other along the transport path (208).

9. Variable transport arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a traversing unit (224, 300) which is configured to traverse at least one of the transport path units (202) between the first operating position and the second operating position.

10. An input and output device (600) for a device (100) for handling vouchers, comprising an input and output compartment (602) for the vouchers (13), a withdrawal unit (606) for withdrawing vouchers (13) from the input and output compartment (602), a voucher stacking unit (206) for stacking vouchers (13) in the input and output compartment (602), and wherein the voucher stacking unit (206) is movable at least between a first operating position and a second operating position.

11. Input and output device according to claim 10, comprising the variable transport arrangement (200) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 9, wherein the note stacking unit (206) of the variable transport arrangement (200) is the note stacking unit (206) of the input and output device (600).

12. Input and output tray according to one of the preceding claims 10 and 11, wherein the security note stacking unit (206) is arranged in the first operating position at a first distance to the pull unit (606) and in the second operating position at a second distance to the pull unit (606), wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance, and / or wherein the security note stacking unit (206) is arranged at least in the second operating position such that the security note stacking unit (206) exerts a pressure force on the pull unit (606).

13. Device (100) for handling banknotes, comprising the variable transport arrangement (200) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 9, and / or comprising the input and output device (600) according to any one of the preceding claims 10 to 12.

14. Procedure for controlling the input and output device (600) according to any one of the preceding claims 10 to 12, with the following steps: Moving the stack of banknotes (206) in the direction of the release unit (606), in particular to exert a pressure force on the release unit (606), Withdrawing vouchers (13) from a stack of vouchers in the input and output tray (602) , and Stacking of vouchers (13) in the input and output tray (602) using the voucher stacking unit (206) .

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