Banknote Processing Apparatus Load Distribution via FPGA Coordination
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing paper sheets processing apparatuses face high processing loads when discriminating the denomination and authenticity of multiple banknotes, leading to potential delays or interruptions in processing due to concentrated processing demands.
Innovation Solution
A paper sheets processing apparatus that distributes the processing load by using multiple computers (CPs) to execute denomination, authenticity, and fitness discriminations, with a main control unit (FPGA) managing data transfer and sorting, ensuring efficient processing of banknotes by transferring image and sensor data to the appropriate CPs based on transport order and availability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single processing apparatus is used to discriminate denomination and authenticity of multiple banknotes, then the processing apparatus can perform all discrimination functions, but the processing load becomes concentrated causing delays and interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The processing system is segmented into multiple independent computers (CP0, CP1, CP2, etc.), each handling specific banknotes based on transport order. The main control unit divides the processing load by assigning different banknotes to different CPs, preventing concentration of processing demands on a single apparatus and eliminating delays caused by overloaded processing.
2Productivity
If multiple computers are used to process banknotes in parallel, then processing load is distributed and speed increases, but data management and coordination become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The main control unit acts as an intermediary between the banknote transport system and multiple computers. It receives transport order information, determines which CP should process each banknote, and coordinates data transfer accordingly. This centralized coordination simplifies the system architecture compared to fully distributed control, as the main control unit manages all communication and assignment logic.
Solution Approach 2:
Each computer (CP) independently processes its assigned banknotes without requiring continuous coordination with other CPs. The computers autonomously perform discrimination functions on their designated banknotes, reducing inter-computer communication overhead and simplifying the overall system complexity while maintaining high processing speed.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a paper sheets processing apparatus includes a first sub controller (301, 302), a second sub controller (401), and a main controller (303). The first sub controller (301, 302) generates image data, based on an output signal from a camera which captures an image of a banknote transported along a transport path. The second sub controller (401) generates sensor data, based on an output signal from a sensor which measures the banknote. The main controller (303) inputs the image data and the sensor data of the same banknote from the first sub controller (301, 302) and the second sub controller (401), and transfers the image data and the sensor data to one external device indicated from a plurality of external devices.