Automated Banking Machine Sheet Routing and Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated banking machines lack a simple customer interface, are not designed to handle various types of sheets and documents efficiently, and do not have a compact physical size, making them less versatile and more expensive to manufacture and operate.
Innovation Solution
An automated banking machine with a transport system that moves sheets along multiple paths, using a sheet directing apparatus to separate and assemble documents, and includes dispensing and receiving devices for various types of sheets, allowing for multiple banking functions and improved user interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the machine has multiple openings for receiving and providing different types of sheets and documents, then the machine can handle various banking functions, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single opening that serves multiple functions by using a sheet directing apparatus to route different types of sheets (cash, checks, money orders, travelers checks) through different transport paths within the machine. This allows one physical opening to handle various banking transactions without requiring separate openings for each function, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the internal sheet handling system into multiple transport paths (first transport path for cash, second transport path for documents) that are segmented from each other. The sheet directing apparatus acts as a controller that segments the sheet flow into different paths based on the type of sheet being processed, allowing complex functionality to be achieved through organized segmentation rather than multiple external openings.
2Volume of moving object
If the machine has a compact physical size, then the manufacturing cost and space requirement are reduced, but the capability to handle various sheet types and documents is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the sheet directing apparatus is positioned within the existing machine housing, and multiple transport paths are integrated within the compact internal space. The sheet directing apparatus nests between the first and second transport paths, allowing multiple functions to coexist in a compact volume without requiring additional external space or increasing the overall machine footprint.
3Ease of operation
If the machine uses a single opening for receiving and providing sheets, then the customer interface is simplified, but the ability to handle different sheet types simultaneously is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of the sheet directing apparatus that can selectively route sheets to different transport paths based on real-time transaction requirements. The system dynamically adjusts which path receives which sheet type, allowing the single opening to handle multiple sheet types sequentially or simultaneously through intelligent routing control, thereby maintaining high productivity while keeping the customer interface simple.
Data Source
AI summary
A cash dispensing automated banking machine (10) includes a user interface (12) including an opening (20). Users of the machine deliver individual sheets and stacks of sheets to and from the machine through the opening. Stacks of sheets may include sheets such as notes, checks or other documents. Stacks input to the machine may include mixtures of various types of sheets. The machine operates to receive notes, process checks and perform other operations. Notes received in the machine may be recycled and dispensed to other users. Checks processed by the machine may be imaged by an imaging device, cancelled and stored in the machine or alternatively returned to a user.