Banknote Handling Apparatus Edge Profile Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Banknote handling apparatuses face reliability issues due to fluctuations in transport speed and potential interference from torn, folded, or damaged banknotes, leading to incorrect handling and jamming, especially when using simple position detectors.
Innovation Solution
A sophisticated first sensing means detects the banknote's configuration across its width, correcting the outputs of subsequent sensors to ensure accurate timing of operations, allowing for the use of simpler sensors while maintaining reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple position detectors are provided to sense the banknote at different locations, then the reliability of position sensing is improved, but the cost and complexity of the apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing function is segmented into two parts: a first sensor detects the leading edge position, while a second sensor detects the banknote presence at a downstream location. This segmentation allows each sensor to be simpler while collectively providing reliable position information for triggering operations at the correct time
Solution Approach 2:
The first sensor performs preliminary detection of the leading edge position before the banknote reaches the second sensor. This preliminary action allows the system to calculate the correct timing for triggering operations, compensating for variations in banknote configuration and transport speed
2Device complexity
If simple position detectors are used to reduce cost, then the apparatus complexity is reduced, but the reliability of operation deteriorates due to incorrect sensing of damaged banknotes
Solution Approach 1:
A timing calculation mechanism acts as an intermediary between the two simple sensors. It processes the signals from both sensors to determine the correct triggering time, compensating for damaged banknote configurations without requiring complex individual sensors
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the first sensor's leading edge detection to adjust the timing of operations triggered by the second sensor. This feedback loop ensures that operations are triggered at the correct time even when banknotes are damaged, maintaining reliability with simple sensors
3Device complexity
If timer-based position determination is used, then the apparatus complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates due to transport speed fluctuations
Solution Approach 1:
The timer-based mechanical timing system is replaced with an optical sensing system that directly measures banknote position. The first sensor detects the leading edge and the second sensor detects banknote presence, providing direct position information that is not affected by transport speed fluctuations
Data Source
AI summary
A first sensing means, which may form part of a banknote authenticator, is used to determine the profile of, for example, at least the leading edge of a banknote. Actuators located elsewhere in the banknote handling machine are operated in accordance with the outputs of other sensors, after taking the measured profile into consideration, so as to correct for errors due to the banknote being damaged in the area sensed by the other position detectors.