Paper sheet storage and paper sheet processing device

Abstract

The present invention provides a paper sheet storage device and a paper sheet storage by which it is possible to improve workability for manually and separately, over several times, taking out a multitude of paper sheets collected on a loading table 400. The present invention is provided with: paper sheet support members 170, 180 that support the paper sheets; a paper sheet loading table 400 on which paper sheets transferred from the paper sheet support members are collected; a loading table advancing / retracting mechanism 410 that advances / retracts the paper sheet loading table along a prescribed path; and a loading-table control mechanism 600 that allows movement in a pressure application direction toward the paper sheet support members during a paper sheet collecting operation, and, when the paper sheets collected on the paper sheet loading table are taken out, causes the paper sheet loading table to stop at a given position while prohibiting the paper sheet loading table from moving in the pressure application direction but allowing the table to move in a retraction direction opposite to the pressure application direction.

Description

Paper sheet storage unit and paper sheet processing unit

[0001] The present invention relates to improvements to a paper handling device, such as a vending machine, and to a paper storage unit equipped in the paper handling device.

[0002] Automatic vending machines, game machine dispensers in amusement arcades, ticket machines, deposit / withdrawal devices, and currency exchange machines, which are equipped with functions to provide various goods and services by accepting inserted banknotes, are equipped with banknote processing devices. The banknote processing device is equipped with a detachable banknote storage compartment for storing banknotes inserted during operation. When collecting banknotes, the banknote storage compartment is either removed from the banknote processing device or transported under security while still attached to the device.

[0003] [First Prior Art] Patent Document 1 discloses a banknote collection storage unit comprising: a setting unit for stopping the conveyed sheets of paper; two rotating bodies for accumulating banknotes, each having recessed portions to support the edges of a single banknote in the setting unit when in its initial rotational position, and capable of rotating synchronously in opposite directions; a pressing member positioned between the two rotating bodies, initially located on the rear side of the banknote in the setting unit, and capable of moving back and forth to contact the rear surface of the banknote and push it forward when it protrudes forward; and a loading platform located in the banknote storage space in front of the two rotating bodies, elastically biased toward each rotating body to press against it, and capable of moving back and forth in a direction away from each rotating body. In Patent Document 1, the banknote setting unit is located directly below the receiving opening for receiving banknotes from the banknote conveying device, and the drive mechanism consisting of a pantograph for extending and retracting the pressing member is located further downstream of the banknote setting unit, thus limiting the miniaturization of the banknote storage unit (miniaturization of the size along the axial direction of the rotating bodies). In other words, because the banknote introduction path and banknote setting section are located between the two rotating bodies, it was not possible to place components such as gears that drive the rotating bodies and pantographs on the upstream side of the introduction path. Therefore, the gears and other components had to be placed on the downstream side of the banknote introduction path. As a result, the device was made larger by the amount of space required for the gears.

[0004] Also, one of the two links connected in an X shape that constitutes the pantograph was lengthened, and the end of the lengthened link was brought into contact with the cam member to transmit the driving force. For this reason, the pantograph became large-sized, and furthermore, a gear for driving the rotating body and a large number of gears for driving the cam member were meshed in a complicated manner, which hindered miniaturization and unitization.

[0005] [Second Prior Art] Next, in the banknote storage of Patent Document 1, the loading table is pressed toward the outer peripheral surface of each rotating body. For this reason, not only during the period when banknotes are accumulated on the loading table, but also when the accumulation is completed and the banknotes are manually taken out, the banknote bundle is in a state of being sandwiched between the loading table and the rotating body. When the total number of banknotes accumulated at the time of taking out is a small number that can be grasped by the operator's fingers, for example, if the thickness is about 10 cm, all the banknotes can be taken out at once by pushing back the loading table against the elastic biasing force while grasping all the banknotes. However, in an apparatus with a maximum loading capacity of about 1,000 to 2,000 banknotes, since the number of banknotes that the operator can grasp at one time is exceeded, it is necessary to take them out in several times. In this case, the operation of taking out a part of the banknote bundle on the rotating body side of all the banknote bundles sandwiched and held between the loading table and the roller pair while grasping it by hand is repeated. However, since the banknote bundle is constantly pressurized, the grasped banknote bundle has to be forcibly pulled out, and the remaining banknotes that are not grasped are dragged by the friction between the pulled-out banknote bundle and the remaining banknote bundle and are likely to collapse and fall from the loading table and become scattered. Such a situation has been a cause of deterioration in the banknote collection workability.

[0006] Next, Patent Document 2 discloses a safe for a cash handling machine that is detachably attached to a cash handling machine. The safe for a cash handling machine comprises a storage section for storing banknotes in a stacked state, and a spring and a backup plate that elastically bias the banknotes in the storage section on the side of the cash handling machine's dispensing roller in the direction of stacking the banknotes. In Patent Document 2, the stack of banknotes is compressed between the backup plate and the dispensing roller, etc., not only during the period when the banknotes are stacked on the backup plate, but also when the stacking is finished and the banknotes are removed manually. Therefore, in order to remove the stack of banknotes, it was necessary to manually push down a large stack of banknotes against the spring that biases the backup plate before removing it. As a result, the banknotes would scatter when removed, causing a deterioration in the efficiency of banknote collection work.

[0007] Patent Document 3 discloses a storage unit that is detachably attached to a banknote deposit / discharge machine for depositing or returning banknotes. When the storage unit is attached to the banknote deposit machine, it allows the stage to reciprocate. When removed from the banknote deposit machine, the stage is fixed in a position corresponding to the amount of banknotes loaded, preventing the stage from reciprocating due to the expansion and contraction of a spring. This maintains the stacked state of the banknotes by preventing disturbance in the bundles of banknotes stored inside due to vibrations received by the storage unit during transport. However, in order to collect a large amount of banknotes on the stage, it is necessary to manually push down the stage against the spring and remove the bundles of banknotes in several stages. As a result, the same problems during collection as described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 occur. It should be noted that such problems are not limited to banknote collection units, but also occur in paper collection units of paper storage devices that handle paper other than banknotes, such as tickets, vouchers, securities, etc.

[0008] Patent No. 6449972 JP 03-288763 JP 2000-20787

[0009] The present invention has been made in view of the above, and its purpose is to provide a paper sheet storage unit and a paper sheet storage device that can improve the work efficiency of manually removing a large number of paper sheets accumulated on a stacking platform in several batches.

[0010] To achieve the second objective described above, the second paper sheet storage according to the present invention is characterized by comprising: a paper sheet stacking platform for accumulating paper sheets; and a stacking platform control mechanism that allows the paper sheet stacking platform to move in the pressurizing direction during paper sheet accumulation, and when removing paper sheets accumulated on the paper sheet stacking platform, prohibits the movement of the paper sheet stacking platform in the pressurizing direction, while allowing movement in the retraction direction opposite to the pressurizing direction, and stops it at any position.

[0011] According to the second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to improve the work efficiency of manually removing a large number of paper sheets accumulated on a stacking platform in several separate steps.

[0012] (a) and (b) are a front perspective view and a rear perspective view of a paper sheet (banknote) processing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. This is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in Figure 1(b). This is a front perspective view of the banknote transport device alone. This is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a unit consisting of a transport direction switching mechanism with a partially enclosed body, a rotary body drive mechanism, and a pressing member drive mechanism. This is a perspective view showing the configuration of each mechanism with the enclosed body removed in the unit of Figure 4. This is a side view showing the positional relationship of each mechanism in Figure 1. This is a perspective view showing the driving force transmission mechanism between the transport direction switching mechanism and the rotary body drive mechanism. This is a perspective view showing the rotary body and the rotary body drive mechanism. (a) to (d) are perspective views of the main parts showing the engagement state between the roller gear cam and the cam follower constituting the rotary body drive mechanism. This is a diagram illustrating the principle of another embodiment of the rotary body drive mechanism according to the first present invention. (a-1) to (d-3) are diagrams sequentially illustrating the operation procedure (banknote processing procedure) in which the pantograph (pressing member retraction means) is extended or retracted by the axial movement of the follower support member due to the rotation of the rotary body. Continuing from Figure 11, Figures 12(e-1) to (i-3) sequentially illustrate the operation procedure (banknote processing procedure) in which the pantograph is extended or retracted by the axial movement of the follower support member due to the rotation of the rotating body. (a) is an external perspective view of the unitized transport direction switching mechanism, rotating body drive mechanism, and pressing member drive mechanism, and (b) is a perspective view illustrating the state of attaching and detaching this unit to the banknote storage compartment. (a) is a rear perspective view showing the main components of the second banknote storage compartment according to the present invention (loading platform advancement / retraction mechanism when the door is closed, loading platform engagement / detachment mechanism) with solid lines, and (b) is an enlarged perspective view of the main components showing the state in which the pressing piece is pressing the pressed piece when the door is closed. (a-1) is a front side perspective view (with the door open) showing the configuration of the loading platform engagement / detachment mechanism according to one embodiment, (a-2) is an enlarged perspective view of the main part showing the state in which the pressing piece is not pressing the pressed piece when the door is open, and (b) is a rear side perspective view of the same figure (a-1). This is a side longitudinal cross-sectional view for explaining the loading platform engagement / detachment mechanism. (a) is a rear side perspective view of Figure 16, and (b) is a bottom side perspective view of (a). (a) is a cross-sectional view of the main part in the door closed state, and (b) is a transverse cross-sectional view of the main part in the door open state.This is an enlarged view of the main part of the loading platform control mechanism, showing the positional relationship between the restricted member and the movement-restricting member on the loading platform side, as viewed from the opening side of the casing body. (a) shows the state in which the movement-restricting member and the restricted member are not in contact, and (b) shows the state in which the movement-restricting member and the restricted member are in contact. This is a modified example of the loading platform control mechanism, and this is an enlarged view of the main part of the loading platform control mechanism, showing the positional relationship between the restricted member and the movement-restricting member on the loading platform side, as viewed from the opening side of the casing body, and showing the state in which the movement-restricting member and the restricted member are in contact.

[0013] [First Invention] <Summary of the First Invention> The first invention will be described in detail below with reference to the embodiments shown in the drawings. The first banknote storage device according to the present invention corresponds to the first prior art and the first purpose. Figures 1(a) and 1(b) are a front and rear perspective view of a paper sheet (banknote) processing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in Figure 1(b), and Figure 3 is a front perspective view of the banknote transport device alone. Figure 4 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a unit consisting of a transport direction switching mechanism 130 with a partially enclosed body, a rotary body drive mechanism 200, and a pressing member drive mechanism 350. Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the configuration of each mechanism in the unit of Figure 4 with the enclosed body removed. Figure 6 is a side view showing the positional relationship of each mechanism in Figure 1. Figure 7 is a perspective view showing the drive force transmission mechanism between the transport direction switching mechanism and the rotary body drive mechanism. Figure 8 is a perspective view showing the rotary body and the rotary body drive mechanism. Figures 9(a) to (d) are perspective views of the main parts showing the engagement state between the roller gear cam and the cam follower constituting the rotary body drive mechanism. Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the principle of another embodiment of the rotary body drive mechanism according to the first invention. Figures 11(a-1) to (d-3) and 12(e-1) to (i-3) are diagrams sequentially illustrating the operation procedure (banknote processing procedure) in which the pantograph (pressing member retraction means) is extended or retracted by the axial movement of the follower support member due to the rotation of the rotary body.

[0014] The banknote processing device (paper sheet processing device) 1 is used by being attached to the main body of a banknote handling device such as a banknote deposit machine, various automatic vending machines, or currency exchange machines (not shown). The banknote processing device 1 is generally composed of a banknote transport device 10 that receives banknotes and transports them inward, and a banknote storage box (cash box) 50 that receives and stores the banknotes one by one that have been identified for authenticity and denomination by the banknote transport device 10 and discharged. The banknote transport device 10 comprises a lower unit 13 and an upper unit 14 that is supported to open and close relative to the lower unit 13, and when each unit shown in Figure 1 is in the closed state, a banknote transport path (transport route) 20 is formed between the opposing surfaces of each unit.

[0015] An entrance 12 for introducing banknotes P is provided at one end of the banknote transport path 20. Inside the entrance 12, along the transport path 20, are arranged an entrance paper feed sensor 24 for detecting banknotes, an entrance roller pair 26, an optical identification sensor 28 for reading information to identify the denomination and authenticity of banknotes, each intermediate roller pair 30 for transporting banknotes, an exit roller pair 32, an exit paper feed sensor (not shown), and an exit 34. Furthermore, a 36 for driving the entrance roller pair 26, the intermediate roller pair 30, and the exit roller pair 32, a motor 40 for driving the rotary body drive mechanism 200, and control means (CPU, MPU, ROM, RAM) 1000 for determining the denomination and authenticity of banknotes based on identification information from the optical identification sensor 28, and controlling the transport motor 36, motor 40, and other controlled objects based on banknote detection signals from each paper feed sensor and exit sensor. Banknotes discharged from the exit 34 are stored one by one in the banknote storage compartment (cash box) 50 from the receiving opening 102.

[0016] The following describes the banknote storage unit (hereinafter referred to as the storage unit) 50 in detail. As shown in Figures 1, 2, and 3, the storage unit 50 consists of a roughly box-shaped casing 100, a receiving port 102 formed on the upper rear surface of the casing 100 to receive banknotes B one by one that have been discharged downwards in a roughly vertical direction from the outlet 34 of the banknote transport path 20, a pair of receiving rollers 104a and 104b that rotate in the receiving direction to nip and introduce the banknotes B introduced from the receiving port, and a mechanism that changes the direction of the banknotes introduced (carried in) downwards from the receiving port 102 (upstream side) by approximately 90 degrees to the side. A transport direction switching mechanism 130 that feeds the banknotes into the banknote setting section 150 and stops them, a banknote setting section (banknote setting space) 150 located laterally to the transport direction switching mechanism 130 and being a horizontal, elongated space, and two rotating bodies (banknote stacking rotating body, banknote support) that have recessed parts 170a and 180a that support both ends of the width direction of a single banknote received into the banknote setting section 150 when it is in the initial rotation position (receiving standby position) shown in Figure 11(a-2), and that can rotate synchronously in opposite directions (banknote storage direction, inward direction) to each other. The system includes support members 170 and 180, a rotating body drive mechanism 200 (banknote support member drive mechanism, Figure 4, etc.) that rotates each rotating body, and a reciprocating pressing member 30 positioned between the two rotating bodies (intermediate position). In its initial state (retracted state), it is located on the rear side of the banknote B within the banknote setting section 150 (upward in Figures 2, 11, and 12), and when it extends forward beyond the banknote setting position (downward in Figures 2, 11, and 12), it contacts the middle portion of the rear of the banknote in the width direction, pushing it forward and detaching it from the banknote support members 170 and 180. The device comprises, in general terms, a pressing member drive mechanism 350 that drives the pressing member 300 in conjunction with the rotation of each rotating body, a banknote stacking platform (stacking platform, banknote receiving platform) 400 which is positioned to move back and forth in the front-to-back direction (up and down direction) within the banknote storage space 100a in front of the two rotating bodies 170 and 180, is elastically biased in the pressing direction toward the outer surface of each rotating body (pressure direction that clamps the banknotes between the rotating body and the pressing member), and is movable in the retraction direction away from each rotating body, and a stacking platform moving back and forth mechanism 410 which moves the stacking platform 400 back and forth. The stacking platform 400 is a means for receiving and accumulating banknotes one by one that have been detached from the banknote support members 170 and 180 by the pressing member 300.Each of these drive mechanisms will be controlled by a control means 1000 provided on the banknote transport device 10 side.

[0017] <Transportation Direction Switching Mechanism> The transport path within the storage compartment 50 is equipped with a transport direction switching mechanism 130 that switches the transport direction of banknotes sent from the banknote transport path (transport path) 20 on the banknote transport device 10 side (by bending or curving the transport direction to change direction) and transports them toward the banknote setting section 150. As shown in Figures 4 to 7, the transport direction switching mechanism 130 includes one of the receiving roller pair 104a, 104b, a receiving roller (timing pulley) 104a, 135, 137, and a roller 139, and a timing belt (which also serves as a banknote transport belt) 142 stretched endlessly by each of the sprockets 104a, 135, 137, and rollers 139, 141, etc., and these sprockets are driven by a transport motor 36. The timing belt also serves as a transport belt for transporting banknotes.

[0018] As shown in detail in Figure 5, the sprocket 135 located at the top receives the driving force from the output gear 38, which outputs the driving force from the transport motor 36 on the banknote transport device 10 side, via the rotating shaft 135S and a coaxially integrated gear 135G, which further rotates each sprocket 104a, 135, 137 and rollers 139, 141 via the timing belt 142. The drive to the gear 240G (Figure 7), which is integrated at the end of the rotating shaft member 240 that constitutes the rotating body drive mechanism 200, is transmitted via the motor 40, which is the drive source of the rotating body drive mechanism, the output gear 38, the gear 135G of the sprocket 135, and the intermediate gears 144, 145. In other words, the rotating body drive mechanism 200 is driven by the motor 40 on the banknote transport device 10 side, similar to the transport direction switching mechanism 130. Although the rotating shaft member 240 passes through the central hole of the sprocket 137, which is driven by the timing belt 142, they are not integrated, and the rotating shaft member 240 and the sprocket 137 (roller gear cams 250, 260) rotate relative to each other.

[0019] The conveyor belt 142 is discharged from the outlet 34 and feeds the banknotes received from the receiving port 102 into the banknote setting section 150 via the nip section (introduction section to the banknote setting section) between the sprocket 137 and the roller 139. When a sensor (not shown) detects that a single banknote discharged from the introduction section to the banknote setting section into the banknote setting section 150 has been completely stored in the banknote setting section, the control means 1000 temporarily stops the drive of the conveyor direction switching mechanism 130. The banknotes fed into the banknote set 150 are transferred to the loading platform 400 by the cooperation of the rotating body drive mechanism 200 and the pressing member drive mechanism 350 in the procedure shown in Figures 11 and 12. At this stage, the control means 100 resumes transmitting driving force from the motor 40 to the transport direction switching mechanism 130 to drive the rotating body drive mechanism and the pressing member drive mechanism. However, if there are subsequent banknotes to be discharged from the banknote transport device 10, the subsequent banknotes are sent to the banknote setting section at the time the work of transferring the preceding banknotes to the stacking table is completed. It is not essential to temporarily stop the transport direction switching mechanism 130 when the preceding banknotes have been loaded into the banknote setting section 150. In other words, if the subsequent banknotes can be sent to the banknote setting section at the time the process of transferring the preceding banknotes onto the stacking table is completed and each rotating body returns to its initial position, there is no need to temporarily stop the transport direction switching mechanism.

[0020] <Rotating Body (Banknote Support Member)> The rotating body is an example of a banknote support member, and any configuration is acceptable as long as it can hold (support) at least one banknote housed in the banknote set section 150 in the banknote set position. Furthermore, the banknote support member only needs to be able to support the banknote so that it can be released without resistance when pressed by the pressing member. Each rotating body 170, 180 has core portions 172, 182 made of plate material that form recessed portions 170a, 180a with a substantially U-shaped cross-section, and thin plate-like contact pieces (ribs) 174, 184 with arc-shaped outer edges (outer surfaces) 174a, 184a fixed to the outer surface of each core portion at a predetermined pitch along its longitudinal direction, and there are no contact pieces 174, 184 on the outer circumference of the portion corresponding to the recessed portions 170a, 180a. The core portions 172, 182 have an axial length that extends almost the entire length of the rotating bodies 170, 180.

[0021] The recessed portions 170a and 180a extend in the diametrical direction including the rotational axis c of each rotating body 170 and 180, and are configured to have a banknote end-receiving width and depth sufficient to accommodate and hold (support) the widthwise ends of banknotes with ample space. When each rotating body is in the initial rotational position shown in Figure 11(a-2), etc., the recessed portions are arranged in a straight line with their openings facing each other, forming a wide rectangular banknote setting section 150. In other words, the banknote setting section (setting position) 150 is formed when each recessed portion 170a and 180a faces each other with their openings facing the setting position, enabling the introduction of banknotes from the transport direction switching mechanism 130 (the nip portion between the sprocket 137 and the roller 139).

[0022] The shape of the recesses 170a and 180a themselves, and the distance between each recess, are set so that the banknote setting section 150 formed between the recesses can accommodate banknotes of the largest denomination. The front edge 170b and 180b of the recesses 170a and 180a are longer than the rear edge 170c and 180c. Because the front edge 170b and 180b are longer, when each rotating body is in its initial rotation position, the edges of both banknotes are less likely to detach from the recesses towards the front. Also, because the rear edge 170c and 180c are shorter, when each rotating body rotates from its initial rotation position in the direction of banknote detachment indicated by arrow a, the edges of both banknotes are more likely to detach from each recess. The longitudinal dimension of each rotating body is set to match the longitudinal length of the largest size banknote. Each of the rotating bodies 170 and 180 is rotatably supported by a bearing section provided in a unit U that integrates the conveying direction switching mechanism, the rotating body drive mechanism, and the pressing member drive mechanism. This point will be described later with reference to Figure 13.

[0023] <Rotating Body Drive Mechanism (Support Member Drive Mechanism)> -Rotating Body Drive Mechanism According to the First Embodiment- The rotating body drive mechanism (support member drive mechanism) 200 is a roller gear cam mechanism that includes turrets 210 and 220 as driven members, which are arranged coaxially at one axial end of each rotating body 170 and 180 as banknote support members; a rotating shaft member 240 arranged to intersect with the rotation axis (rotation center c) of each rotating body; and two roller gear cams 250 and 260 as two rotating body drive members, which are fixedly arranged on the rotating shaft member and drive each rotating body via each turret 210 and 220. The rotating shaft member 240 of the rotating body drive mechanism 200 is shared with the shaft of the pulley 137 that constitutes the transport direction switching mechanism 130, so that the number of parts can be reduced and the size reduced by sharing the drive source.

[0024] The two roller gear cams 250 and 260 are positioned upstream of the banknote entry opening 150a of the banknote setting section 150, and are located below the banknote setting section 150 formed when the recessed portions 170a and 180a of the rotating bodies 170 and 180 are in the initial position shown in Figure 11(a-2). By changing the transport direction of the banknotes that have been fed in downward from the receiving opening 102 by approximately 90 degrees to the side using the transport direction switching mechanism 130, it is possible to position the rotating body drive mechanism 200 upstream of the banknote setting section 150.

[0025] In Patent Document 1, the banknote setting section is located directly below the receiving opening that receives banknotes from the banknote transport device 10, and the drive mechanism for the rotating body and the drive mechanism for the pressing member that extends and retracts the pantograph are located further downstream of the banknote setting section, thus limiting the miniaturization of the banknote storage compartment (miniaturization of the size along the axial direction of the rotating body). In contrast, in the present invention, the transport direction switching mechanism 130 is located directly below the receiving opening 102, that is, upstream of the banknote setting section 150, to switch the transport direction by 90 degrees to the side, and the rotating body drive mechanism 200 is located at the position where the transport direction has been switched (upstream of the banknote setting section), and the rotating body drive mechanism 200 is driven by the driving force from the transport direction switching mechanism 130, so that miniaturization is possible.

[0026] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, each turret 210, 220 includes a substantially C-shaped support member 212, 222 fixed coaxially to one axial end of each rotating body 170, 180, and six cam followers 214, 224 rotatably supported on the outer surface of each support member at predetermined circumferential intervals (60-degree intervals). Each roller gear cam 250, 260 has its axis fixed on the rotating shaft member 240 at predetermined axial intervals. Each roller gear cam 250, 260 has helical grooves 252, 262 on its outer surface that receive each cam follower 214, 224 and guide them along a helical movement trajectory. The twisting directions of each helical groove 252, 262 are opposite to each other. As each roller gear cam 250, 260 rotates integrally in the direction of arrow a, one of each cam follower 214, 224 supported by each support member 212, 222 enters the groove from the entrance end of each helical groove 252, 262 at the same time and moves synchronously within the groove. The other cam followers 214, 224 that had entered the helical groove 252, 262 earlier are guided by the groove and exit from the exit end of each helical groove. As each cam follower 214, 224 that is inside each helical groove 252, 262 moves within the groove, each rotating body 170, 180 rotates synchronously in the direction of arrow a. In other words, the rotation of the roller gear cams 250, 260 is transmitted to each rotating body 170, 180 via each cam follower, causing each rotating body to rotate.

[0027] Figure 9(a) shows the positional relationship between each helical groove and each cam follower when each rotating body is in its initial rotational position (rotation angle 0 degrees), (b) similarly shows the positional relationship when each rotating body is at a rotational position of 15 degrees, (c) similarly shows the positional relationship when each rotating body is at a rotational position of 30 degrees, and (d) similarly shows the positional relationship when each rotating body is at a rotational position of 45 degrees. Focusing on the operation of specific cam followers 214a, 214b, 224a, and 224b, at the stage shown in Figure 9(a) the cam followers 214a and 224a have entered the helical grooves 252 and 262 of the respective roller gear cams 250 and 260 in advance, and the cam followers 214b and 224b are in the state just before entering the respective helical grooves 252 and 262. Subsequently, proceeding through (b) to (c), two cam followers 214a and 214b are located in the helical groove 252, and two cam followers 224a and 224b are located in the helical groove 262, transmitting rotational driving force. However, at stage (d), cam followers 214a and 224a detach from their respective helical grooves, and cam followers 214b and 224b are located within their respective helical grooves. Subsequently, as each rotating body rotates sequentially from 60 degrees, 75 degrees, 90 degrees... to 360 degrees, this operation is repeated sequentially, driving each rotating body to rotate. Note that the number of cam followers 214 and 224 provided on the outer surface of each support member shown is just an example; a minimum of two cam followers are sufficient to rotate each rotating body. However, by providing six cam followers as shown in the illustrated example, one or two cam followers will always be located within the helical groove, thereby stabilizing the rotation of the rotating body.

[0028] Furthermore, by adopting the above structure as the rotating body drive mechanism, the rotating bodies 170, 180, the rotating body drive mechanism 200, the pressing member drive mechanism 350, and the transport direction switching mechanism 130 can be unitized as shown in Figures 4 and 13, etc., making it easier to attach and detach them from the banknote storage compartment 50 as a single unit U. In other words, the rotating body drive mechanism 200 is positioned in a location that avoids the loading path to the banknote setting section 150 extending downward from the receiving opening 102, in the space upstream of the banknote setting section, and the pressing member drive mechanism 350 is driven by the rotating body, thus achieving compactness and enabling unitization. In particular, since the transport direction via the loading path upstream of the banknote setting section is largely switched by the transport direction switching mechanism 130, it is possible to secure space for the rotating body drive mechanism, further achieving compactness.

[0029] <Unit U> Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram of Unit U, which is a unitized unit comprising the transport direction switching mechanism 130, the rotating body drive mechanism 200, and the pressing member drive mechanism 350. The same parts as in Unit U shown in Figure 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted. However, it differs from Figure 4 in that it shows a cover 570 that covers the upper surfaces of each rotating body 170, 180, and a bearing portion 570a provided at the end of the cover 570 that rotatably supports the ends of each rotating body. In particular, since the space for arranging Unit U, which consists of these drive mechanisms, could be provided upstream of the banknote setting section 150, attaching and detaching the unit became extremely easy.

[0030] -Rotating Body Drive Mechanism According to a Second Embodiment- Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the principle of a second embodiment of the first rotating body drive mechanism according to the present invention. This rotating body drive mechanism 200 includes a bevel gear 270 fixedly arranged along the outer circumference of one axial end of a rotating body 170 (180 is not shown), a plurality of bearings 272 fixedly positioned to pivotally support the inner circumferential surface of the rotating body, a drive-side bevel gear 274 that meshes with the bevel gear 270 to transmit driving force from the rotating shaft 275, and a gear group 277 that rotates the rotating shaft 275. The rotating body is rotated by transmitting the driving force from the bevel gear 274 to the bevel gear 270 which is integrated with the rotating body. The rotating body rotates while being supported on its inner circumferential surface by each bearing 272. When one bearing reaches the recessed portion 170a of the rotating body, the bearing becomes non-contact with the rotating body, while the other bearings remain in contact with the inner circumferential surface of the rotating body, constantly supporting it. In claim 7, the driven members arranged at one axial end of each rotating body correspond to the helical gears 270, the rotating shaft members arranged intersecting the rotation axis c of each rotating body correspond to the rotation axis 275, and the rotating body driving members that drive each rotating body via each driven member (helical gear 270) correspond to the helical gears 274 on the driving side.

[0031] <Pressing Member Driving Mechanism 350> Figures 11(a-1) to (d-3) and 12(e-1) to (i-3) are diagrams illustrating sequentially the operation procedure in which the pantograph (pressing member extension / retraction means) is extended or retracted by the axial movement of the follower support member due to the rotation of the rotating body. The left diagrams (a-1), (b-1), (c-1), and (d-1) in Figure 11, and the left diagrams (e-1), (f-1), (g-1), (h-1), and (i-1) in Figure 12, show the configuration and operation of the pressing member drive mechanism 350 including the pantograph. The center diagrams (a-2), (b-2), (c-2), and (d-2) in Figure 11, and the center diagrams (e-2), (f-2), (g-2), (h-2), and (i-2) in Figure 12, are schematic longitudinal cross-sectional views showing the relationship between each rotating body and the pressing member. The right diagrams (a-3), (b-3), (c-3), and (d-3) in Figure 11, and the right diagrams (e-3), (f-3), (g-3), (h-3), and (i-3) in Figure 12, are plan views of one of the rotating bodies. The left, center, and right diagrams in each figure correspond to each other. In the right-hand diagrams of Figures 11 and 12, the other rotating body is not shown, but since the cam members of both rotating bodies are in a symmetrical positional relationship, the explanation for one cam member applies directly to the other cam member as well.

[0032] The pressing member drive mechanism 350 includes a pantograph 500 as a means for extending and retracting the pressing member 300, and a pantograph extending and retracting mechanism 550 which operates by the rotation of each rotating body 170, 180 to extend and retract the pantograph 500. The pantograph 500 has a configuration in which a first link piece 510 and a second link piece 520 intersect in an X shape at their respective intermediate positions, and the intersection is rotatably supported by a shaft 530. One end 510a of the first link piece 510 is rotatably supported by a fixed shaft 512 fixed to a fixed part of the device body (unit U), and both link pieces are biased in the direction of extending (expanding) by a torsion spring 532 arranged on the fixed shaft 512. A pin 514 is provided at the other end 510b of the first link piece 510, and the pin 514 is slidably supported within a guide slit 302 provided on the pressing member 300 side.

[0033] The other end 520b of the second link piece 520 is pivotally supported by a shaft portion 304 provided on the pressing member 300 so as to be immovable and rotatable, and the one end 520a is pivotally supported by a follower support member 560 so as to be rotatable. The follower support member 560 is supported by the main body of the device (unit U) so as to be able to move back and forth in a direction parallel to the axial direction of each rotating body. Therefore, when the follower support member 560 moves back and forth in the axial direction indicated by the arrow in Figure 11(a-1), the first link piece 510 and the second link piece 520 rotate around the shaft portion 530 and extend and retract, causing the pressing member 300 to protrude or retract (retract). The follower support member 560 is equipped with a follower 565, which will be described later.

[0034] Unlike the pantograph in Patent Document 1, the pantograph 500 does not require a cam member, gears or other components for transmitting driving force, thus enabling miniaturization and unitization. The pantograph retraction mechanism 550 includes a cam member 190, which consists of a guide projection or guide groove provided along the outer circumferential surface of each rotating body 170, 180, with at least a portion of it intersecting diagonally with the axial direction of the rotating body, and a follower 565 that is guided by each cam member 190 during the period of one rotation of each rotating body and reciprocates between an initial axial position (retracted position) and an extended position (axial extended position) which has moved a predetermined distance in the axial direction from the initial position. In the illustrated example, each cam member 190 is a projection that extends substantially circumferentially from a starting end 190L (Figure 11(a-3)) at one circumferential end edge of the recessed portion 170a, 180a of each rotating body, and terminates at an end 190E (Figure 12(f-3)) at the other circumferential end edge of each recessed portion. From the starting end 190L of each cam member, an inclined portion 190a is formed that extends diagonally, intersecting the axial direction of the rotating body, with a circumferential length of approximately 90 degrees. From the end of the inclined portion 190a, a non-inclined portion 190b is formed continuously to the end 190E, perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotating body.

[0035] The pantograph 500 extends and retracts the pressing member 300 as the follower 565 reciprocates along the cam member 190. The pantograph (pressing member extension / retraction mechanism) 500 maintains the pressing member 300 in the rear retracted position shown in Figure 11(a-2) when the follower 565 is in the initial position shown in Figure 11(a-3), and as the rotating bodies 170 and 180 rotate in direction a, as shown sequentially in the central figures 11(b-2) to 12(f-2), the follower 565 moves axially along the cam member 190, causing the pressing member to protrude forward. Furthermore, in Figures 12(g-1) to (g-3), Figures 12(h-1) to (h-3), and Figures 12(i-1) to (i-3), the follower 565 has returned to its initial position, so the pantograph 500 is in its most retracted state, and the pressing member 300 is also in the retracted position.

[0036] In Figure 4, the follower support member 560 covers a portion of the pantograph, so the covered portion should be shown with a dashed line; however, for illustrative purposes and drawing convenience, it is shown entirely with solid lines. Also, in Figure 5, a cover 567 that covers the upper surface of the main body of the follower support member 560 is shown, but it is omitted from Figure 4. The follower support member 560 is supported by a fixing part on the device body side so that it can reciprocate in the axial direction between the initial axial position shown in Figures 11(a-1) and (a-3) and the axial extension position shown in the left and right figures of Figures 11(c) to 12(f). It is also biased toward the initial axial position by a torsion spring 532 disposed between the fixing part of the device body (unit U) and the follower support member.

[0037] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the follower support member 560 comprises a roughly rectangular frame body 561 positioned to cover a portion of the upper surface of the pantograph, and support pieces 562 projecting laterally in a wing-like manner from the center of both side edges of the body 651. Followers 565 are rotatably supported on the lower surfaces near the tips of each support piece 562. The followers are guided by engaging with the side surfaces of cam members 190 provided on each rotating body. The follower support member 560 is supported so as to be able to move back and forth in the axial direction of the rotating body while maintaining the posture shown in Figure 4, and one end 520a of the second link piece 520 of the pantograph is rotatably supported by the follower support member 560. Therefore, one end 520a of the second link, which was maintained in the initial position shown in Figure 11(a-1) against the biasing force of the torsion spring 532 in the expanding direction, moves to the right in the axial direction due to the axial movement of the follower support member, and as a result the entire pantograph extends and protrudes due to the expanding force of the torsion spring 532.

[0038] As shown in Figure 11(a), left (a-1) and right (a-3), when the follower support member 560 is in its initial axial position (left end), the cam member 190 maintains the follower 565 in its initial axial position. In other words, the cam member 190 maintains the follower in its initial axial position at the stage shown in Figure 11(a), while having an inclined portion 190a that moves the follower axially to the right as the rotating body rotates in direction a. As shown in Figure 11(b-3) and later, a non-inclined portion 190b is continuously formed from the end of the inclined portion 190a, parallel to the width direction of the rotating body (direction perpendicular to the axial direction). The non-inclined portion 190b is formed in a position and shape that moves the follower diagonally to the right in the axial direction by a predetermined distance from its initial axial position. Each non-inclined portion 190b ends at the edge of the recessed portions 170a and 180a of the rotating body. At the stage shown in Figure 11(b), the follower 565 is in contact with the inclined portion 190a and has begun to move axially to the right. At the stage shown in Figure 11(c), the follower has moved to the non-inclined portion 190b and has reached the position furthest to the right in the axial direction (axial advance position). As long as the follower is in contact with the non-inclined portion 190b, it maintains this axial advance position. However, since the non-inclined portion ends at the edge of the recess, the follower, having passed the end of the non-inclined portion, returns to its initial axial position as shown in (g-3) and (h-3) in the right-hand diagrams of Figure 12. At this time, the follower is located within the recess 180a. The width and thickness of the cam member in Figures 11 and 12 differ from those in Figure 4, etc., but this is merely a difference for the convenience of drawing, and there is no difference in the actual function of the cam member.

[0039] In Patent Document 1, the drive shaft and gears for driving the pantograph were located downstream in the transport direction, extending from the rotation axis of each rotating body, which increased the size by the space required for the gears. In contrast, in the present invention, the rotating body drive mechanism 200 is located below the extension of the rotation axis of each rotating body, but the pantograph retraction mechanism 550 is not located in the same position. The components constituting the pantograph retraction mechanism 550, such as the follower support member 560 and the follower 565, are located along the outer circumference of each rotating body 170 and 180. As a result, the number of components on the axial downstream side of the rotating body is reduced, making it more compact. The pressing member drive mechanism 350 extends and retracts the pressing member in conjunction with the short stroke reciprocating motion of the follower. In other words, a characteristic feature of the present invention is that the pantograph can be extended and retracted by a sufficiently long distance by the short stroke reciprocating motion of the follower support member 560 equipped with the follower 565.

[0040] <Loading Platform Advance / Retraction Mechanism> The loading platform 400 is positioned within the banknote storage space 100a in front of the two rotating bodies 170 and 180, and is capable of moving back and forth in the front-rear direction (down and up). It is elastically biased in a pressing direction toward the outer surface of each rotating body (a pressing direction that clamps banknotes between the rotating body and the pressing member), and is also capable of moving in a retraction direction away from each rotating body. The loading platform is driven by the loading platform advance / retraction mechanism 410. As shown in Figures 14 to 17, which will be described later, the loading platform has a guided portion (guide projection) 400b that engages with a guide portion (guide groove) 720 provided on the casing 100 side, and moves up and down stably as the guided portion 400b moves up and down along the guide portion 720.

[0041] As shown in Figures 2, 16, and 17, the loading platform advancement mechanism 410 generally comprises two pairs of rack gears 411 and 412 arranged parallel to each other at a predetermined lateral distance inside the banknote storage space 100a of the casing, pinion gears 415 and 416 mounted on the banknote loading platform (loading platform) 400 that mesh with the gear portions of each rack gear pair 411 and 412, and torsion springs 418 and 418 that elastically bias the rotation shafts 415a and 416a of each pinion gear in one direction. As shown in each figure, the rack gear pairs 411 and 412 extend from the immediate vicinity of the rotating bodies 170 and 180 to near the front end of the banknote storage space 100a, with their gear portions facing each other. The pinion gears 415 and 416 are rotatably supported by gear support parts 414 located on the loading platform 400. The torsion springs 418, 418 bias each pinion gear 415 and 416 to rotate in a direction (indicated by arrows) that moves the loading platform toward the rotating body (rearward). Therefore, when the rotating body is in the initial rotation position shown in Figure 11(a-2), unless an external force is applied that pushes down the loading platform, the loading surface 400a of the loading platform is in contact with the outer peripheral edges 174a and 184a of the rotating body at the rear position as shown in the figure, due to the force of each torsion spring. Furthermore, even in each stage shown in Figures 11(b) to (d) and Figures 12(e) to (i) when the pressing member protrudes, the loading platform surface is always in contact (engaged) with at least one or both of the outer peripheral edges 174a and 184a of the rotating body, or the pressing surface of the pressing member, via the banknotes. It should be noted that the illustrated configuration for elastically biasing the loading platform in one direction is merely one example. Furthermore, although the banknote storage compartment 50 is shown vertically in the illustrated example, it can, of course, function similarly even when placed horizontally.

[0042] <Paper currency storage operation by a rotating body and a pressing member> Next, the paper currency storage operation by the rotating body and the pressing member will be described. As shown in FIG. 11(a-2), when the pressing member 300 is at the rear of the paper currency setting position in the paper currency setting unit 150, that is, in the retracted position, the paper currency setting unit 150 is waiting for paper currency acceptance. The paper currency setting unit 150 is formed between the recessed portions 170a and 180a of the rotating bodies 170 and 180 in the initial rotation posture. Each rotating body is a paper currency support member that supports the paper currency. As sequentially shown in FIGS. 11(b-2) and (c-2), in conjunction with the operation of the pressing member protruding and pressing the center of the paper currency forward, and during this pressing operation, the two rotating bodies 170 and 180 synchronously start rotating in a direction to deform the edges of the paper currency accommodated in the recessed portions 170a and 180a toward the rear surface direction and separate them from the recessed portions.

[0043] When the pressing of the paper currency by the pressing member 300 progresses and the front surface of the center of the paper currency comes into contact with the stacking table 400 (the paper currency already stacked on the stacking table), the pressing member stops the protruding operation at an appropriate stage thereafter (FIG. 11(c-2)). Further, after the protruding operation of the pressing member 300 stops, the rotating bodies 170 and 180 continue to rotate at a constant peripheral speed to separate the both edges of the paper currency from the recessed portions 170a and 180a and transfer the entire paper currency onto the stacking table (FIG. 11(d-2)). After the both edges of the paper currency are separated from the respective recessed portions, the rotating bodies continue to rotate in the same direction, rotate 360 degrees, and then return to the initial rotation posture and wait for the acceptance of the subsequent paper currency (FIG. 12(i-2)).

[0044] The pressing member 300 returns to the retracted position at an appropriate timing before or after the rotating bodies return to the initial rotation posture (FIG. 12(f) → (g)). The pressing member drive mechanism 350 rotates each rotating body, for example, at least 90 degrees between when the pressing member 300 presses the center of the paper currency and brings the center of the paper currency into contact with the stacking table surface 400a and when the pressing member retreats and separates from the center of the paper currency. That is, until each rotating body finishes rotating at least 90 degrees, the pressing member continuously presses the center of the paper currency against the stacking table surface, minimizing the time when the outer peripheral surface of the rotating body presses the paper currency against the stacking table surface alone, and preventing the displacement and dropping of the paper currency caused by the contact with the rotating body.

[0045] [Second Embodiment of the Invention] <First Embodiment> Next, a second banknote (paper sheet) storage unit according to the present invention will be described. The second banknote storage unit according to the present invention corresponds to the second prior art and the second purpose described above. Figure 14(a) is a rear perspective view showing only the main components of the second banknote storage unit according to the present invention (loading platform advancement / retraction mechanism when the door is closed, loading platform engagement / disengagement mechanism) in solid lines, and (b) is an enlarged perspective view of the main components showing the state in which the pressing piece is pressing the pressed piece when the door is closed. Figure 15(a-1) is a front perspective view showing the configuration of the loading platform engagement / disengagement mechanism (loading platform control mechanism) according to one embodiment (when the door is open), and Figure 15(a-2) is an enlarged perspective view of the main components showing the state in which the pressing piece is not pressing the pressed piece when the door is open, and Figure 15(b) is a rear perspective view of Figure 15(a-1) (Figure 15(b) shows only the main components in solid lines). Figure 16 is a side longitudinal section view illustrating the loading platform engagement / disengagement mechanism, Figure 17(a) is a rear perspective view of Figure 16, and (b) is a bottom perspective view of (a). Figure 18(a) is a cross section view illustrating the main part (loading platform engagement / disengagement mechanism) in the door closed state, and (b) is a cross section view illustrating the main part in the door open state. Figure 19 is an enlarged view of the main part, showing the positional relationship between the restricted member and the retraction restricting member on the loading platform side, viewed from the opening side of the casing body, where (a) shows the non-contact state between the retraction restricting member and the restricted member, and (b) shows the state in which the retraction restricting member and the restricted member are in contact. Figures 1 to 13 will also be used for further explanation.

[0046] As described in the first embodiment of the present invention, the banknote stacking table (accumulation table, banknote receiving table) 400 is arranged to move forward and backward within the banknote storage space 100a and is elastically biased toward the rotating bodies (banknote support members) 170, 180 in the backward direction (pressure direction) to hold the banknote bundle BB between the rotating bodies (pressure members). When removing banknotes held between the rotating bodies and the stacking table, the casing door is opened before the work is carried out, but when the number of banknotes is several hundred or more than a thousand, it becomes difficult to remove the bundle of banknotes that are held tightly. In the present invention, when removing a bundle of banknotes held between the rotating bodies and the stacking table, the elastic biasing force that biases the stacking table in the pressure direction is released, and it is possible to perform the removal work while stopping at any position toward the retraction direction.

[0047] To achieve the characteristic behavior described above, the following configuration was adopted. Specifically, the banknote storage unit 50 includes a banknote setting section 150 which is a set position for stopping and holding (supporting) a single banknote (a banknote before being transferred to the stacking table) that has been brought in from the receiving opening 102, banknote support members (170, 180) which support the banknote in the setting section before it is transferred, a stacking table 400 which accumulates the banknotes transferred from the banknote support members, and a stacking table reciprocating mechanism 410 which moves the stacking table back and forth along a predetermined path. During the banknote accumulation operation, the stacking table is allowed to move in the pressurizing direction toward the banknote support members (banknote setting section 150) and in the retraction direction opposite to the pressurizing direction. When removing a bundle of banknotes accumulated on the stacking table (during non-accumulation operation), the stacking table is prohibited from moving in the pressurizing direction, while allowing it to move in the retraction direction opposite to the pressurizing direction and stopping it at any position.

[0048] The stacking table 400 moves forward and backward in the paper currency storage space 100a in front of the paper currency support member, in the pressing direction (the direction of sandwiching the paper currency between the paper currency support member) towards the paper currency setting portion 150 that holds the paper currency before stacking, and in the retreat direction away from the paper currency setting portion. If the number of stacked paper currency increases, the stacking table shown in FIGS. 11(c-2) and (d-2) moves further downward (in the retreat direction). Also, in the mode of stacking paper currency, the stacking table moves in the retreat direction against the biasing in the pressing direction by the elastic biasing means composed of the torsion spring 418. That is, in the paper currency stacking mode, the stacking table can move forward and backward freely in both directions.

[0049] Furthermore, in the paper currency storage 50 according to one embodiment, when in the initial rotation posture shown in FIG. 11(a), it has recessed portions 170a, 180a that respectively hold (support) both end edges of a single paper currency at the paper currency setting portion (paper currency setting position) 150, and two rotators 170, 180 as paper currency support members that can rotate synchronously in opposite directions (arranged in parallel and facing each other through the paper currency setting portion), and a press member 300 that is arranged in the forward and backward path formed between the two rotators, is located on the rear side of the paper currency at the set position in the initial position, and contacts the middle portion of the rear surface of the paper currency and pushes it forward when protruding forward (in the storage direction) beyond the set position and is capable of moving forward and backward, and a drive mechanism (rotator drive mechanism (paper currency support member drive mechanism) 200, press member drive mechanism 350) that drives the respective rotators and the press member in conjunction.

[0050] The stacking table engagement and disengagement mechanism (stacking table control mechanism) 600 allows (unlocks) the stacking table to move in the pressing direction by elastic biasing during the paper currency stacking operation (transfer operation) onto the stacking table 400 by the cooperation of the two rotators and the press member, prohibits the stacking table from moving in the pressing direction when the stacking operation is not being performed and when taking out the paper currency stacked on the stacking table, while allowing movement in the retreat direction and stopping at an arbitrary position.

[0051] A loading platform engagement / disengagement mechanism 600 according to one embodiment includes a pair of reciprocating restricting members (ratchet gear members) 610 fixedly positioned on both sides (at least one side) along the reciprocating path of the loading platform 400 to prohibit or release the movement of the loading platform in the pressurizing direction; a restricted member 650 provided on the loading platform that, when in contact (facing, opposite) with each reciprocating restricting member, prohibits only the movement of the loading platform in the pressurizing direction, and when not in contact, allows the loading platform to move in both directions; and a reciprocating restricting member operating mechanism 620 that moves each reciprocating restricting member 610 between a contact position in contact with each restricted member 650 and a non-contact position in which contact with each restricted member is not possible (rotation, opening and closing, reciprocating, extending and retracting, etc.). One embodiment of the casing 100 includes a casing body 700 having a front opening 700a that houses (supports) the above-mentioned components inside and exposes at least a part of each component, and a door 750 that is supported (pivoted) to the casing body by a lower hinge portion 702 to open and close the opening. Reference numeral 760 denotes a lock, which is a means for locking the casing body and the door. In one embodiment of the loading platform engagement / detachment mechanism (loading platform control mechanism) 600, when the door 750 is closed, each retraction restricting member 610 is maintained in a non-contact position so as not to contact each restricted member 650, and when the door is opened, each retraction restricting member is moved to a contact position so as to contact each restricted member 650.

[0052] It should be noted that "contact" in the context of contact and non-contact positions does not refer to "contact" in a strictly physical sense. For example, even if a movement-restricting member is in contact with a restricted member, if it does not substantially restrict the movement of the restricted member (loading platform), it can be said to be in a "non-contact position." "Contact" can also be rephrased as "engagement" or "locking." Alternatively, even if a movement-restricting member is not in contact with a restricted member, if it substantially restricts the movement of the restricted member (loading platform), it can be said to be in a "contact position." For example, if the movement of a restricted member is restricted using the magnetic force of a magnet, it can be said to be in "contact."

[0053] Furthermore, the loading platform engagement / disengagement mechanism 600 includes an operated piece 622 that is in an initial position (non-operating position) when each reciprocating restricting member 610 is in the non-contact position shown in Figure 18(a), and moves from the initial position to the switching position (operating position) shown in Figure 18(b), thereby switching (transitioning) each reciprocating restricting member from the non-contact position to the contact position.

[0054] Each of the movement-restricting members 610 in this example is a narrow, strip-shaped ratchet gear member 612 that is elongated in the vertical direction. Each ratchet gear member 612 has a restricting portion 613 made of a ratchet gear that extends almost the entire length of its inner surface, and the restricting portion 613 extends vertically in parallel to the entire length of the movement trajectory of the loading platform 400. Each ratchet gear member 612 is supported so as to be able to open and close horizontally by a hinge portion 615a provided on an elongated plate-shaped base member 615 at one end edge along its longitudinal direction. The hinge portion may be configured, for example, by pivotally supporting the longitudinal end edge of the ratchet gear member with respect to an elongated shaft member supported by the base member. The base member 615 is fixed to the casing body 700 (fixing portion) side. Each ratchet gear member 612 is biased by an elastic member (torsion spring) 616, as shown in Figures 14 to 17, to assume the contact position shown in Figure 18(b). In this example, each ratchet gear member 612 expands against the elastic member 616 and assumes the non-contact position shown in Figure 18(a) only while the pressed piece (operated piece) 622 is pressed by the pressing piece (operating piece) 660 provided on the door, which will be described later.

[0055] As shown in enlarged view in Figures 14(b) and 15(a-2), the pressed piece 622 is integrally projected from the base of each reciprocating member 610, that is, from the part close to the hinge portion 615a, and forms an L-shape between it and each reciprocating member in plan view. The projection direction of the pressed piece 622 is opposite (outward) to the reciprocating portion 613 and the ratchet gear portion. By configuring the pressed piece as an elastically deformable resin spring, poor engagement with the pressing piece 660 due to variations in the door stroke is eliminated, and the reciprocating member can be reliably moved to a non-contact position. Note that the means that triggers the movement of the ratchet gear member to a non-contact position by operating the pressed piece 622 is not limited to opening and closing the door. Also, the pressed piece 622 is not essential, and any configuration that allows the ratchet gear to move back and forth between a contact position and a non-contact position is acceptable.

[0056] As shown in Figure 19, the restricted member 650 has a pointed front shape that engages with the gear teeth constituting the restricting section 613. As shown in Figure 19(b), when the restricted member enters the valley of the gear teeth in the restricting section, its movement upward in the drawing, i.e., in the direction of pressure, is prohibited by the horizontal lower surface 613a' of the gear tooth 613a directly above it. However, movement downward in the drawing, i.e., in the direction of retraction, is possible by sequentially overcoming the inclined surfaces 613b' of each gear tooth located below, starting with the gear tooth 613b directly below it. When the restricted member moves in the direction of retraction, it moves while sliding between the inclined lower surface 650a of the restricted member and the inclined surface 613b' of the gear tooth 613b directly below it. However, the restricted member, or each gear tooth 613b, may be configured to undergo elastic deformation to facilitate passage of the restricted member 650.

[0057] Each ratchet gear member 612 rotates substantially horizontally around the hinge portion 615a between a non-contact position shown in Figures 18(a) and 19(a) and a contact position shown in Figures 18(b) and 19(b). Figures 18(a) and 19(a) show the state where the door is closed and the pressing piece 660 is pressing the pressed piece 622. Figures 18(b) and 19(b) show the state where the door is open and the pressing piece 660 is not pressing the pressed piece 622. Each elastic member 616 maintains each ratchet gear member 612 in the contact position shown in Figures 18(b) and 19(b) unless an external force is applied that causes each ratchet gear member 612 to rotate in the non-contact direction. When the door is closed, the pressing piece 622 is pushed in by the pressing piece 660, causing each ratchet gear member 612 to separate from the restricted member 650, as shown in Figures 18(a) and 19(a). In this example, a gap (hole) 710 is provided at an appropriate location on the front of the casing body 700, and when the door is closed, the pressing piece 660 enters through this gap and presses the pressing piece 622.

[0058] The pressed piece (operated piece) 622 is in an initial position (non-operating position) when the reciprocating restricting member is in a non-contact position, and is a means of switching (transitioning) the reciprocating restricting member from a non-contact position to a contact position by operating it from the initial position to a switching position (operating position). In this example, the pressed piece (operated piece) 622 is configured to operate by being pressed toward the inside of the casing, but this is just one example, and it may also be configured to operate by being pressed toward the front side (opening side) of the casing, or by being pulled toward other directions. When each ratchet gear member 612 is in the non-contact position shown in Figures 18(a) and 19(a), the restricting portion 613 is separated from each restricted member 650 of the loading platform and is not engaged, so the loading platform 400 is not restricted in its movement by each ratchet gear member 612, and the loading platform 400 can move toward the rotating body in the pressurizing direction by the force of the coil spring 418. Furthermore, the loading platform can also be moved in the retraction direction, which is opposite to the direction of pressurization.

[0059] Next, when each ratchet gear member 612 is in the contact position shown in Figures 18(b) and 19(b), the restricting part 613 is in contact with and meshed with each restricted member 650 of the loading platform, so the loading platform 400 is restricted from moving and cannot move in the pressurizing direction toward the rotating body. At this time, the restricting part 613, through its ratchet action, prohibits each restricted member 650 (loading platform) from moving in the pressurizing direction, while allowing it to move in the retracting direction toward the rotating body. The forward / backward restricting member operating mechanism 620 is a means for rotating each forward / backward restricting member 610 between a contact position in contact with each restricted member 650 and a non-contact position in which it does not contact each restricted member. In this example, each forward / backward restricting member is configured to rotate, but any configuration other than rotation is acceptable as long as it can move forward and backward and extend and retract between the contact position and the non-contact position. One embodiment of the retraction restricting member operating mechanism 620 includes a pressed piece 622 integrally projecting from the base of a ratchet gear member 612 and a pressing piece 660 provided on the casing door 750. The positional relationship between the pressed piece 622 and the pressing piece 660 is configured such that when the door is closed, the pressing piece pushes the pressed piece, maintaining the ratchet gear member in a non-contact position relative to each restricted member 650. When the door is open, as shown in Figure 18(b), the pressing piece 660 is in a non-pressed state, separated from the pressed piece 622, maintaining the ratchet gear member in a contact position relative to each restricted member 650.

[0060] According to the above configuration of the present invention, when a large amount of banknotes (1,000 to 2,000 sheets) is held in a nearly full position between each rotating body and the stacking platform, and the user opens the door to remove the banknotes, opening the door causes the forward / backward restricting member 610 to lock the restricted member 650, preventing the stacking platform from moving in the pressurized direction. However, since the stacking platform can move in the retraction direction, the user can manually push the stacking platform down in the retraction direction and stop it at any position for any amount of time. In other words, the user can insert their fingers between the stacks of banknotes and push the stacking platform down by the required distance to release the pressurized force within the stacks of banknotes, making it easy to remove any number of banknotes at a time without disrupting the alignment of the stacks and causing them to fall. That is, when a large stack of banknotes is stored, it is not possible to remove them all at once even with both hands, so the user has to remove them in amounts that can be grasped with their fingers, but it is difficult to grasp and remove only a portion of the banknotes with their fingers when the entire stack is pressurized. If you try to forcibly remove a portion of the banknotes, the remaining banknotes (those not being held) will also fly out with it. This causes the remaining banknotes to crumble and scatter. This worsens the work efficiency and has become a problem.

[0061] Therefore, in this invention, the biasing force of the torsion spring 418, which is an elastic member that biases the loading platform in the pressing direction, is canceled using the loading platform engagement / disengagement mechanism 600. In other words, by operating the forward / backward restricting member operating mechanism 620 (pressing piece 660, pressed piece 622) to lock the loading platform 400 with the forward / backward restricting member 610, the upward biasing force by the torsion spring 418 is neutralized. With this configuration, even if a portion of the banknote bundle BB located away from the loading platform is removed, the remaining banknotes will not collapse.

[0062] <Other Embodiments> Other methods (other configurations of the loading platform control mechanism 600) for locking or releasing the restricted member 650 (loading platform) by the retraction restricting member 610 include the following. In the above embodiment, a ratchet gear member is used as the retraction restricting member 610, with a plurality of peaks and valleys formed along the longitudinal direction as the restricting portion 613, and a pointed projection that engages with the valleys of the ratchet gear is used as the restricted member 650. However, this is only one example, and any configuration that can generate sufficient braking force when the retraction restricting member 610 and the restricted member 650 come into contact with each other is acceptable. For example, a member with high frictional resistance may be used as the restricting portion 613 of the retraction restricting member 610, and a member with high frictional resistance may also be used as the restricted member 650. In this case, the loading platform will be locked by contact between the restricting portion 613 of the retraction restricting member and the restricted member 650.

[0063] Alternatively, in the first embodiment in which a ratchet gear member 612 is used as the forward / backward restricting member 610, instead of the restricted member 650 which is a projection provided on the loading platform, a restricted gear (spur gear) that meshes with the gear portion of the ratchet gear member is rotatably supported by the loading platform. This restricted gear is equipped with a one-way clutch and is configured to rotate in the retraction direction when the loading platform is lowered, but not in the pressurization direction when it is raised. According to this configuration example, when the ratchet gear member 612 is in the contact position (when collecting banknotes), it meshes with the restricted gear, thereby restricting the loading platform as described above. When the ratchet gear is in the non-contact position (when accumulating banknotes), the restricted gear is not meshed with the ratchet gear, and the one-way clutch does not operate, so the loading platform can move up and down freely. In the embodiment in which a one-way clutch is equipped on the restricted gear, a conventional rack gear may be used instead of a ratchet gear, and a spur gear that meshes with the rack gear may be used as the restricted gear.

[0064] Figure 20 shows the main components of a loading platform control mechanism 600 according to another embodiment of the present invention. It is an enlarged view of the main components as seen from the opening side of the casing body, showing the positional relationship between the restricted member and the forward / backward restricting member on the loading platform side, and indicating the state in which the forward / backward restricting member and the restricting member are in contact. In the loading platform control mechanism 600 according to this embodiment, instead of a restricted member consisting of a protrusion, a restricted gear (without a built-in one-way clutch) 670, consisting of a spur gear or the like, is rotatably supported on the loading platform 400 and driven by a motor M mounted on the loading platform. In this case, when the ratchet gear member 612 (or a normal rack gear) is in contact and meshing with the restricted gear, the control means 1000 may be configured to control the restricted gear 670 so that it is not rotated in the pressurizing direction to raise the loading platform, but rather rotated in the retraction direction to lower it, and stopped at an arbitrary position. The operation of retracting or stopping the loading platform can be performed by a switch to turn the motor M on or off.

[0065] Furthermore, when the restricted gear 670 is configured to be driven by a motor, it is not necessary to move the reciprocating member (ratchet gear or rack gear) back and forth between a contact position and a non-contact position; the reciprocating member is fixed in a contact position where it is always engaged with the restricted gear. In this configuration example, the motor M, the restricted gear 670, and the reciprocating member 610 constitute the loading platform control mechanism 600. Alternatively, it is possible to move the reciprocating member 610 to the contact position by manual operation or other operation unrelated to the opening and closing of the door to improve the efficiency of banknote retrieval.

[0066] For example, instead of providing a pressing piece 660 on the door to press the pressed piece 622 when the door is closed, a push button (not shown) is provided that can be manually operated to press the pressed piece 622 and move the retraction restricting member 610 to a contact position. That is, in this configuration example, the retraction restricting member 610 is in the non-contact position shown in Figures 18(a) and 19(a) regardless of whether the door is opened or closed. A push button member (not shown) is then positioned to be retractable at a location corresponding to the gap 710 in the casing body shown in Figures 18(a) and 18(b), and an elastic member (not shown) biases the push button member outward (protruding position). At this time, the inner end of the push button member is in contact with or close to the pressed piece 622, and the retraction restricting member 610 is in a non-contact position that does not engage with the restricted member 650. On the other hand, when the outer end (the part that contacts the finger) of the push button member is pressed a predetermined distance, the pressed piece 622 is pressed in, and the retraction restricting member 610 moves to a contact position in which it engages with the restricted member 650. A locking member is provided to maintain the pressed state of the push button member, and the retraction restricting member 610 will not return to the non-contact position unless the locking member is released.

[0067] The push button member may be positioned so that its outer end is exposed and can be operated by a finger when the door 750 is opened, or it may be configured so that its outer end is always exposed. In this configuration example, even when the door is opened, the loading platform 400 can move up and down freely unless the push button member is pressed. However, by pressing the push button member and moving the forward / backward restricting member 610 to a contact position that engages with the restricted member 650, the loading platform's movement in the pressurizing direction is prohibited, while it can be moved in the retracting direction (downward direction) by manual operation and stopped at any position. At this time, the forward / backward restricting member 610 moves to a contact position that contacts the restricted member 650 and locks the loading platform. In this state, by moving the loading platform to any position and stopping it, the pressure on the stack of banknotes is released, and any number of banknotes can be taken out.

[0068] In the first embodiment, the banknote restricting member 610 maintained a non-contact position, where it did not contact the restricted member 650, only when the door was closed. However, as a modification, the banknote restricting member may be operated regardless of whether the door is open or closed. That is, for example, when the banknote storage compartment 50 is not attached to the banknote transport device 10, or when the power to the banknote processing device 1 is OFF even if it is attached, the banknote restricting member may be kept in a contact position. On the other hand, when the banknote storage compartment 50 is attached to the banknote transport device 10, or when the power to the banknote processing device 1 is turned ON, the banknote restricting member may be configured to be in a non-contact position (so that its position is electrically controlled). In this case, the banknote restricting member 610 may be operated by a motor or solenoid.

[0069] With this configuration, while the banknote storage unit 50 is attached to the banknote transport device 10 and the banknote stacking operation is being performed, the banknote restricting member 610 is in a non-contact position and the stacking platform can be freely raised and lowered. Furthermore, when the banknote storage unit 50 is not attached to the banknote transport device 10, the banknote restricting member is in a contact position, prohibiting the stacking platform from moving in the pressurizing direction, and allowing it to move in the retraction direction and stop at any position, thereby making the banknote retrieval operation more efficient. Alternatively, the banknote restricting member 610 may be configured to move back and forth between a contact position and a non-contact position by operating a lock (key) or a dedicated operating lever. In other words, it is sufficient if the banknote restricting member 610 moves to a non-contact position before the banknote storage operation starts while the banknote storage unit 50 is attached to the banknote transport device 10, and then moves to a contact position and locks in that position when the door is opened and the banknotes inside the banknote storage unit are retrieved.

[0070] [Summary of the structure, operation, and effects of the present invention] <Summary of the structure, operation, and effects of the first paper sheet storage unit according to the present invention> (1) The paper sheet storage unit 50 according to the present invention comprises a paper sheet setting section 150 that accommodates at least one paper sheet, a paper sheet support member that supports the paper sheet in the paper sheet setting section, a pressing member 300 that is initially located on the rear side of the paper sheet in the paper sheet setting section and pushes the paper sheet forward (pushes it out and detaches it from the paper sheet support member) when it protrudes (moves) forward beyond the paper sheet setting section, a support member drive mechanism 200 that drives the paper sheet support member, a pressing member drive mechanism 350 that drives the pressing member, and a paper sheet stacking platform 400 that is arranged to move back and forth within the paper sheet storage space, is elastically biased in the pressurizing direction toward the paper sheet setting section, and is movable in the retraction direction away from the paper sheet setting section, wherein the support member drive mechanism is located upstream of the paper sheet setting section in the transport direction, and the pressing member drive mechanism is driven by the driving force from the support member drive mechanism. A space is created on the upstream side of the paper sheet setting section 150 in the paper sheet transport direction, and the main components of the support member drive mechanism 200 are arranged within this space. Since the pressing member drive mechanism 350 is driven in conjunction with the movement of the paper sheet support member driven by the support member drive mechanism 200, the number of parts is reduced, and dedicated parts such as gears are not required, thus enabling a reduction in the number of parts, a more compact design, and the unitization of the two mechanisms. As a result, it became possible to secure the above-mentioned space on the upstream side of the paper sheet setting section.

[0071] (2) The paper sheet storage unit 50 according to the present invention is characterized by comprising: two rotating bodies 170 and 180 as paper sheet support members, which are arranged in parallel opposite to each other via a paper sheet setting section and have recesses that support both edges of a single paper sheet in the paper sheet setting section when in the initial rotation position, and which are synchronously rotatable in opposite directions; a pressing member which is arranged between the two rotating bodies and is located on the rear side of the paper sheet in the paper sheet setting section in the initial position, and which is movable forward and backward to push the paper sheet forward when it protrudes forward beyond the paper sheet setting section; a rotating body driving mechanism 200 as the support member driving mechanism that rotates each rotating body; and a pressing member driving mechanism 350 which drives the pressing member in conjunction with the rotation of the rotating bodies. A space is formed on the upstream side of the paper sheet conveying direction of the paper sheet setting section 150, and the main components of the rotating body driving mechanism 200 are arranged in this space. The pressing member drive mechanism 350 is configured to be driven in conjunction with the rotation of the rotating body driven by the rotating body drive mechanism 200, eliminating the need for dedicated gears and other parts. This allows for a reduction in the number of parts, miniaturization, and unitization of the two mechanisms. Since the rotation of the rotating body is used as the driving source for the pressing member drive mechanism to move the pressing member forward and backward, the number of parts can be reduced.

[0072] (3) In the paper sheet storage unit 50 according to the present invention, the pressing member driving mechanism 350 comprises a cam member 190 provided on a rotating body, the cam member having at least a portion of which intersects the axial direction of the rotating body at an angle, and a follower 565 that is guided by the cam member during one rotation of the rotating body and reciprocates between an initial axial position and an extended position which has moved a predetermined distance in the axial direction from the initial position. The pressing member driving mechanism is characterized by including a pressing member retraction means 500 that extends and retracts the pressing member in conjunction with the reciprocating motion of the follower. The cam member provided on the rotating body moves in the circumferential direction due to the rotation of the rotating body, but since the cam member has a portion that intersects the axial direction of the rotating body at an angle and a portion that is perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotating body, the follower moves in the axial direction due to the rotation of the rotating body. The force generated when the follower moves in the axial direction is used to operate the pressing member retraction means. With this configuration, the number of parts can be reduced and the unit can be made more compact, so that space can be secured to place the drive components on the upstream side of the banknote setting section.

[0073] (4) In the paper sheet storage unit 50 according to the present invention, the pressing member drive mechanism 350 is configured to maintain the pressing member 300 in a retracted position at the rear when the follower 565 is in its initial position, and to move the pressing member forward when it moves axially along the cam member 190 due to the rotation of the rotating bodies 170 and 180. One specific example of a configuration in which the pressing member drive mechanism 350 (pressing member retraction means 500) is driven in conjunction with the rotation of the rotating body is a configuration in which the follower is reciprocated in the axial direction by a cam member provided on the rotating body. With this, the pressing member retraction means 500 can be operated by utilizing the rotation of the rotating body without using a large number of gears as in Patent Document 1, and the number of parts can be reduced, the size can be made more compact and unitized can be made. As a result, it is possible to secure space to place the drive components on the upstream side of the banknote setting section.

[0074] (5) In the paper sheet storage unit 50 according to the present invention, the pressing member retraction means 500 is characterized by being composed of a pantograph. By using a pantograph as the pressing member retraction means, the structure can be simplified, durability can be improved, and the operation can be made more stable.

[0075] (6) The paper sheet storage unit 50 according to the present invention is equipped with a transport direction switching mechanism 130 that changes the direction of banknotes brought in from the upstream side (by about 90 degrees) and feeds them into the paper sheet setting unit 150 and stops them, and the rotating body drive mechanism 200 is driven by the driving force from the transport direction switching mechanism 130, and each rotating body drive member 250, 260 is located upstream of the paper sheet setting unit in the transport direction. By changing the transport direction by the transport path extending downward from the receiving opening by a predetermined angle, for example about 90 degrees, to the lateral direction, an installation space for the rotating body drive mechanism is formed upstream of the banknote setting unit. The rotating body drive mechanism, which conventionally could only be placed downstream of the banknote setting unit, can be placed in the above installation space provided upstream of the banknote setting unit, and moreover, the rotating shaft member 240 constituting the rotating body drive mechanism can be placed below, avoiding the banknote setting unit. As a result, the number of gears constituting the rotating body drive mechanism and the pressing member drive mechanism can be greatly reduced, making it possible to miniaturize and unitize them so that they can be attached and detached independently. Each component within the paper sheet storage compartment is driven by a motor located in the paper sheet transport device 10, which is situated upstream. Therefore, no motor or other drive source is required within the paper sheet storage compartment. The driving force from the transport direction switching mechanism 130, which receives power from the motor on the paper sheet transport device 10 side, is transmitted to the rotating body drive mechanism 200 and the pressing member drive mechanism 350. This allows for a reduction in the number of parts, miniaturization, weight reduction, and unitization of these mechanisms.

[0076] (7) The rotating body drive mechanism 200 comprises driven members 210 and 220, respectively, arranged at one axial end of each rotating body; a rotating shaft member 240, arranged intersecting the rotation axis c of each rotating body; and two rotating body drive members 250 and 260, respectively, fixedly arranged on the rotating shaft member and driving each rotating body via each driven member. By arranging the driven members on the rotating body itself, it is possible to secure space to arrange the rotating shaft member and the rotating body drive members on the upstream side, avoiding the banknote setting section and the banknote transport path to the banknote setting section.

[0077] (8) In the paper sheet storage unit 50 according to the present invention, each rotating drive member 250, 260 is a roller gear cam 250, 260 equipped with helical grooves 252, 262 on its outer circumference for receiving and guiding a driven member, and the driven members 214, 224 are cam followers 214, 224 that enter the helical groove and move. If the number of cam followers that are simultaneously in the helical groove of the roller gear cam is at least one, preferably two or more, then stable transmission of rotational driving force is possible. Since the roller gear cam has a small number of parts and is compact, it can be placed in a narrow space upstream of the paper sheet setting section.

[0078] (9) In the paper sheet storage unit 50 according to the present invention, the rotating body drive mechanism 200 is characterized by comprising a helical gear 270 fixedly arranged along the outer circumference of one axial end of each rotating body, a plurality of bearings 272 arranged to pivotally support the inner circumferential surface of each rotating body, a drive-side helical gear 274 that meshes with each helical gear to transmit driving force from the rotating shaft 275, and a gear group 277 that rotates the rotating shaft 275. Various variations in the configuration of the rotating body drive mechanism are conceivable, which corresponds to the embodiment in Figure 10. In claim 7, the driven member corresponds to the helical gear 270, the rotating shaft member corresponds to the rotating shaft 275, and the rotating body drive member that drives each rotating body via each driven member (helical gear 270) corresponds to the drive-side helical gear 274.

[0079] (10) The paper sheet storage unit 50 according to the present invention is characterized in that the transport direction switching mechanism 130, the rotary body drive mechanism 200, and the pressing member drive mechanism 350 (pressing member retraction means 500) are integrated into a single unit and are detachable from other components constituting the paper sheet storage unit. The rotary body drive mechanism 200 is positioned upstream of the paper sheet setting section, avoiding the transport route to the paper sheet setting section, and the pressing member drive mechanism 350 is driven by the rotary body, thereby achieving compactness and enabling the unit to be independently detached. In particular, the transport direction switching mechanism 130 significantly switches the transport route upstream of the paper sheet setting section, further achieving compactness. The paper sheet storage unit does not have a drive source such as a motor, and both drive mechanisms 200 and 350 are driven by the drive force from the transport direction switching mechanism 130, which is driven by the drive force from the motor in the upstream paper sheet transport device 10, which is also a factor that enables compactness and unitization. Unitization has the advantage of making maintenance easier. For example, if only one component of a unit fails, it becomes possible to repair the unit after removing only that component. It also becomes possible to operate with a substitute unit until the repair of the faulty unit is completed.

[0080] (11) The paper sheet processing apparatus 1 according to the present invention is characterized by comprising any of the above-mentioned paper sheet storage units and a banknote transport device 10 that discharges banknotes into the receiving opening 102 of the paper sheet storage unit. This makes it possible to provide a paper sheet processing apparatus that has the various conveniences exhibited by the above-mentioned paper sheet storage units.

[0081] <Summary of the configuration, operation, and effects of the second paper sheet storage unit according to the present invention> (1) The paper sheet storage unit 50 according to the present invention is characterized by comprising: a paper sheet stacking table 400 that moves back and forth in a pressing direction toward a paper sheet setting section 150 that holds paper sheets before stacking, and a retraction direction away from the paper sheet setting section; a stacking table moving back and forth mechanism 410 that moves the paper sheet stacking table back and forth; and a stacking table control mechanism 600 that allows the paper sheet stacking table to move in the pressing direction during the paper sheet stacking operation, and when removing paper sheets stacked on the paper sheet stacking table (during non-stacking operation), prohibits the paper sheet stacking table from moving in the pressing direction while allowing it to move in the retraction direction and stopping it at an arbitrary position. If you tried to forcibly remove the banknotes, the friction between the bills would cause the stack to crumble, making subsequent handling more complicated.

[0082] In the paper sheet storage unit 50 of the present invention, when collecting stacks of banknotes, the stacking platform is configured to be movable only in the direction opposite to the direction of pressure and to be stopped at any position (one-way operation). This allows space to be created above the stacks of banknotes on the stacking platform, eliminating the problem in the conventional method where attempting to grasp and remove only a portion of the banknotes is hindered by pressure from the remaining banknotes. Therefore, it prevents the avalanche of stacks of banknotes falling due to tailing caused by friction between banknotes, and prevents the scattering of banknotes, thereby shortening the banknote collection time. When storing banknotes in the storage unit, the one-way operation is released, allowing movement in both directions. The trigger for making the stacking platform movable only in the direction opposite to the direction of pressure to facilitate banknote collection can be any configuration or timing. Examples of such timings include when the casing door is opened, when the storage unit is set in the banknote processing device 1, when the power is turned on, etc. Any configuration and timing is acceptable as long as the loading platform can be prevented from moving in the pressurizing direction when collecting banknotes, while being able to move freely in the opposite direction and stop at any desired position. The loading platform control mechanism 600 can also be composed of a reciprocating restricting member 610 that moves back and forth between a contact position and a non-contact position, and a restricted member 650 mounted on the loading platform. However, this is merely one example, and as shown in the embodiment of Figure 20, the reciprocating restricting member may be fixed while the restricted member 650, which consists of gears, is rotated and controlled by a motor or the like. In other words, a fixed reciprocating restricting member is also included in the present invention.

[0083] (2) In the paper sheet storage unit according to the present invention, the loading platform engagement / detachment mechanism 600 is characterized by comprising: at least one reciprocating restricting member 610 arranged along the reciprocating path of the loading platform 400 to prohibit or release the movement of the loading platform in the forward direction (pressure direction); a restricted member 650 provided on the loading platform which, when in contact (facing, opposite) with the reciprocating restricting member, prohibits the loading platform from moving in the pressure direction while allowing it to move in the retraction direction and stopping it at any position, and when not in contact, allows the loading platform to move forward and backward; and a reciprocating restricting member operating mechanism 620 which moves the reciprocating restricting member forward and backward between a contact position in which it is in contact (facing) with the restricted member and a non-contact position in which it cannot contact the restricted member. In the embodiment, an example is shown in which a pair of reciprocating restricting members 610 are provided, but there may be one reciprocating restricting member and one restricted member 650. In this embodiment, a ratchet gear with continuous peaks and valleys was used as an example of a movement-retraction restricting member. However, there are no limitations on the configuration as long as it restricts the movement of the loading platform in the pressurizing direction when it is in contact and allows the loading platform to move freely when it is in non-contact position.

[0084] (3) The paper storage unit according to the present invention comprises a casing body 700 having an opening 700a that supports each component and exposes the interior, and a casing 100 having a door 750 pivotally supported by the casing body to open and close the opening, and the loading platform engagement / detachment mechanism 600 is characterized in that when the door is closed, the retraction restricting member 610 is held in a non-contact position, and when the door is opened, the retraction restricting member is moved to a contact position. In the embodiment, this operation is achieved by pressing or releasing a pressed piece (operated piece) 622 with a protruding operating piece 660 provided on the door, but this is just one example. The operation of the retraction restricting member may be linked to the opening and closing of the door, as in the embodiment. This is because the banknote storage operation is performed when the door is closed, and the banknote collection is performed when the door is open.

[0085] (4) In the paper sheet storage unit according to the present invention, the loading platform engagement / detachment mechanism 600 is characterized in that it is in an initial position (non-operating position) when the retraction restricting member 610 is in a non-contact position, and is operated by moving from the initial position to a switching position (operating position) which switches (transitions) the retraction restricting member from a non-contact position to a contact position. The means for operating the operated piece 622 may be an operating piece 660 provided on the door of the casing, or a manually operated push button, lever, or lock.

[0086] (5) The paper sheet storage cabinet according to the present invention is characterized in that when the door 750 is closed, the operated piece 622 is in the initial position, and when the door is opened, the operated piece is in the switching position. When the casing door is closed, the operated piece holds the retraction restricting member 610 in a non-contact position, and when the door is opened, the operated piece moves the retraction restricting member 610 to the contact position.

[0087] (6) In the paper sheet storage unit according to the present invention, the retraction restricting member 610 is a ratchet gear consisting of a plurality of peaks and valleys formed along the longitudinal direction, or a friction part with high frictional resistance, and the restricted member 650 is a projection that engages between the teeth of the ratchet gear, or a friction piece that contacts the friction member and generates braking force. The relationship between the retraction restricting member 610 and the restricted member 650 can be any configuration as long as the restricted member (loading platform) is free when the retraction restricting member is in a non-contact position, and the movement of the restricted member (loading platform) is restricted (braked) when the retraction restricting member is in a contact position. When the retraction restricting member 610 is a ratchet gear, the projection-shaped restricted member 650 interferes with the teeth of the ratchet gear, thereby preventing the loading platform from moving in the pressurizing direction, while allowing movement in other directions and stopping at any position. In other words, the restricted member is configured to be able to overcome the teeth of the ratchet gear when moving in the opposite direction to the pressurizing direction. To remove banknotes when the stack is full, the user can lower the stacking platform and stop it at any desired position, creating a gap that makes it easier to insert a finger and remove stacks of banknotes of a manageable thickness in multiple batches. Previously, it was possible to move the stacking platform in the opposite direction of the pressure, but it was not possible to stop it at any desired position.

[0088] (7) In the paper sheet storage unit according to the present invention, the retraction restricting member operating mechanism 620 is characterized by rotating the retraction restricting member 610 between a contact position and a non-contact position. Supporting the retraction restricting member operating mechanism 620 so that it can rotate freely is just one example, but it results in a compact and simple configuration.

[0089] (8) The paper sheet storage unit according to the present invention comprises paper sheet support members 170 and 180 that support paper sheets before they are transferred to a paper sheet stacking table, the paper sheet support members are arranged opposite each other via a paper sheet set section that houses paper sheets, and each has recessed portions that support both edges of a single paper sheet in the paper sheet set section 150 when in the initial rotation position, and are two rotating bodies that can rotate synchronously in opposite directions, and further comprises a pressing member 300 that is located on the rear side of the paper sheet in the paper sheet set section in the initial position and pushes the paper sheet out and detaches it from the rotating body when it moves forward, and a pressing member driving mechanism 350 that drives the pressing member. The paper sheet support members can be of any configuration as long as they support the paper sheets housed in the paper sheet set section (or form a paper sheet set section between the paper sheet support members) and allow the paper sheets to be smoothly detached when pressed by the pressing member. When a pair of rotating bodies are used as paper sheet support members, it is possible to effectively prevent misalignment and improper loading of paper sheets while simplifying and compacting the structure.

[0090] (9) The paper sheet storage unit 1 according to the present invention is characterized by comprising any paper sheet storage unit and a banknote transport device 10 that discharges banknotes into the receiving opening 102 of the paper sheet storage unit. This makes it possible to provide a paper sheet processing device that has the various conveniences exhibited by the above-described paper sheet storage unit.

[0091] 1...Banknote processing device, 10...Banknote transport device, 12...Inlet, 13...Lower unit, 14...Upper unit, 20...Banknote transport path, 24...Inlet paper feed sensor, 26...Inlet roller pair, 28...Light identification sensor, 30...Intermediate roller pair, 32...Outlet roller pair, 34...Outlet, 36...Transport motor, 38...Output gear, 50...Banknote storage compartment, 100...Casing, 100a...Banknote storage space, 102...Receiving opening, 104a, 104b...Roller pair, 130...Transport direction switching mechanism, 135, 137...Sprocket, 135G...Gear, 135S...Rotating shaft, 137...Sprocket, 139...Roller ,142...Timing belt (conveyor belt), 150...Banknote setting section, 150a...Banknote introduction slot, 170, 180...Rotating body (rotating body for banknote stacking, banknote support member), 170a, 180a...Recessed section, 170b...Front side edge, 170c...Rear side edge, 172...Core section, 174, 184...Contact piece (rib), 174a, 184a...Outer peripheral edge, 190...Cam member, 190E...End section, 190L...Starting end section, 190a...Inclined section, 190b...Non-inclined section, 200...Rotating body drive mechanism (banknote support member drive mechanism), 210...Turret (driven member), 212, 222...Support member, 214, 224...Cam follower (driven member), 240...Rotating shaft member, 250, 260...Roller gear cam (rotating body driving member), 252, 262...Spiral groove, 300...Pressing member, 302...Guide slit, 304...Shaft portion, 350...Pressing member driving mechanism, 400...Loading platform, 400a...Loading surface, 410...Loading platform advance / retraction mechanism, 411, 412...Rack gear pair, 414...Gear support portion, 415, 416...Pinion gear, 416...Pinion gear, 416a...Rotating shaft, 418...Coil spring, 500...Pantograph (Pressing member retraction means), 510...Link piece, 510a...One end, 510b... Other end, 512...fixed shaft, 514...pin, 520...link piece, 520a...one end, 520b...other end, 530...shaft part, 532...torsion spring, 550...pantograph retraction mechanism, 560...follower support member, 561...main body, 562...support piece, 565...follower, 600...loading platform control mechanism (loading platform engagement / disengagement mechanism), 610...forward / backward restricting member, 612...ratchet gear member, 613...restricting part, 613a...gear tooth, 613b...gear tooth, 615...base member, 615a...hinge part, 616...elastic member, 620...forward / backward restricting member operating mechanism, 622...pressed piece (operated piece),650...Restricted member, 660...Pressing piece (operating piece), 670...Restricted gear, 700...Casing body, 700a...Opening, 702...Hinge part, 710...Gap, 750...Door, 1000...Control means.

Claims

1. A paper sheet storage unit characterized by comprising: a paper sheet stacking platform that moves back and forth in a pressurizing direction toward a paper sheet setting section that holds the paper sheets before stacking, and a retracting direction away from the paper sheet setting section; and a stacking platform control mechanism that allows the paper sheet stacking platform to move in the pressurizing direction during the paper sheet stacking operation, and when removing the paper sheets stacked on the paper sheet stacking platform, prohibits the paper sheet stacking platform from moving in the pressurizing direction while allowing it to move in the retracting direction and stopping it at an arbitrary position.

2. The paper storage unit according to claim 1, wherein the loading platform control mechanism comprises: at least one reciprocating restricting member that prohibits or releases the movement of the paper stacking platform in the pressurizing direction; a restricted member that, when in contact with the reciprocating restricting member, prohibits the movement of the paper stacking platform in the pressurizing direction while allowing movement in the retraction direction and stopping it at an arbitrary position, and when not in contact, allows the paper stacking platform to move forward and backward in each of the directions; and a reciprocating restricting member operating mechanism that moves the reciprocating restricting member back and forth between a contact position in contact with the restricted member and a non-contact position in which it cannot contact the restricted member.

3. A paper sheet storage unit according to claim 2, comprising a casing body having an opening that supports each of the components described in claim 1 and exposes the interior, and a casing having a door that opens and closes the opening, wherein the loading platform control mechanism maintains the retraction restricting member in the non-contact position when the door is closed, and moves the retraction restricting member to the contact position when the door is opened.

4. The paper sheet storage unit according to claim 2, wherein the loading platform control mechanism is in an initial position when the retraction restricting member is in the non-contact position, and is operated by moving from the initial position to a switching position to switch the retraction restricting member from the non-contact position to the contact position.

5. The paper sheet storage cabinet according to claim 3, characterized in that the operated piece is in the initial position when the door is closed and in the switching position when the door is open.

6. The paper sheet storage unit according to claim 2, wherein the forward / backward restricting member comprises a ratchet gear consisting of a plurality of gear teeth formed along the longitudinal direction, or a friction portion with high frictional resistance, and the restricted member is a projection that engages between the gear teeth of the ratchet gear, or a friction piece that contacts the friction member and generates braking force.

7. The paper sheet storage cabinet according to claim 2, characterized in that the forward / backward restricting member operating mechanism rotates the forward / backward restricting member between the contact position and the non-contact position.

8. The paper sheet storage unit according to claim 1, further comprising a paper sheet support member for supporting paper sheets before they are transferred to the paper sheet stacking table, the paper sheet support member being two rotating bodies arranged opposite each other via a paper sheet setting section for accommodating paper sheets, each having recessed portions that support both edges of a single paper sheet in the paper sheet setting section when in an initial rotational position, and which are synchronously rotatable in opposite directions, a pressing member located on the rear side of the paper sheet in the paper sheet setting section in an initial position, which pushes the paper sheet out and detaches it from the rotating body when it moves forward, and a pressing member driving mechanism for driving the pressing member.

9. A paper sheet processing apparatus comprising a paper sheet storage unit according to any one of claims 1 to 8, and a banknote transport device for transporting paper sheets into the paper sheet storage unit.

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