Banknote Insertion Scanner for Tamper-Proof Container Certification

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing devices for filling removable containers with banknotes lack reliable documentation and certification of contents before the containers are removed, leading to potential detection errors and tampering issues, which can result in discrepancies and fraud.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a scanner, such as a Contact Image Sensor (CIS), downstream of the exchange element in the loading path to detect and store images of banknotes entering the container, allowing for a visual archive and certification of the exact content, including number, value, and characteristics, at the time of closure and removal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If simple ON/OFF optical sensors are used to detect banknotes, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to detection errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor system complexityVSAvoidbanknote detection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the copying principle by creating a visual archive (copy) of banknotes through imaging technology. Instead of relying solely on simple optical sensors that may make errors, the system captures images of each banknote and stores them in a database. This visual copy serves as proof of the actual banknotes present, allowing for accurate verification and reconciliation even when sensor detection errors occur.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Device complexity

If no documentation system is implemented for container contents, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates due to undetectable tampering

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedocumentation system complexityVSAvoidcontainer content verification
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback by creating a closed-loop verification system. The imaging system captures banknote images, which are then compared against the container closure documentation. When the container is opened or verified, the system checks whether the actual banknotes match the documented images. This feedback mechanism ensures reliability by detecting any tampering or discrepancies between the documented contents and actual contents.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Measurement precision

If visual archiving of banknotes is implemented, then the measurement precision is improved through accurate documentation, but the device complexity increases due to additional imaging and storage systems

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebanknote content accuracyVSAvoidimaging and storage system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by capturing images of banknotes and documenting container contents before the container is sealed and removed from the system. The imaging system records the banknotes in advance, creating a visual archive that is stored and protected. This preliminary documentation ensures that accurate records exist before any potential tampering can occur, allowing for verification without requiring complex real-time monitoring systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Ensures accurate documentation and certification of the banknote contents within the container, preventing errors and tampering by creating a visual record of each banknote, thereby enhancing trust and security in the transaction process.

Implementation Method 1

Incorporating a scanner, such as a Contact Image Sensor (CIS), downstream of the exchange element in the loading path to detect and store images of banknotes

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical detection: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentEP3005323B1Device for the insertion of paper valuables in closable containers, with control and storage of valuables entering the container
Publication Date: 2018.01.31 CIMA SRL
  • EP3005323B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3005323B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3005323B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A device for the insertion of banknotes into containers in machines suitable for receiving and handling banknotes, comprises a container (18, 18', 18") for the banknotes (11), adapted to be closed and removed from the machine once filled, and a loading path (17), diverting from a circulation path (14) inside the machine and ending at said container (18, 18', 18"), for the insertion of banknotes (11) into the container. The device further comprises at least one scanner (24), placed along the loading path (17), for the optical detection of images of the banknotes entering into the container (18, 18', 18") and a memory (26) connected to the scanner (24) for storing the images detected thereby.