Banknote Validator Foreign Object Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Banknote processing systems face challenges in detecting foreign objects like strings or tape attached to banknotes, which can trick the system and cause jamming, and existing solutions rely on light obstruction detection methods that are not always effective.
Innovation Solution
A banknote validator system with a banknote path featuring a reflective region and a dark region within the imaging zone, using an image sensor to capture images and process them by comparing to baseline images to identify foreign objects based on color or transparency, allowing for reliable detection and prevention of jamming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If light obstruction detection methods are used to detect foreign objects, then the detection system is simple, but the detection effectiveness is insufficient for foreign objects of varying colors and transparencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating regions with different optical properties within the imaging zone. Specifically, it includes a reflective region that reflects light and a dark region that absorbs light, allowing the system to detect foreign objects of different colors and transparencies by comparing their appearance against these contrasting backgrounds. This resolves the contradiction by enhancing detection effectiveness through localized variations in the imaging environment without requiring complex multiple-sensor systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes color changes by incorporating regions with different optical characteristics - a reflective region that appears bright and a dark region that appears dark in captured images. These contrasting visual regions enable the image processing system to detect foreign objects by identifying anomalies in color and transparency patterns, thereby improving detection effectiveness while maintaining relatively simple system architecture.
2Measurement precision
If baseline images are captured during idle state for comparison, then foreign object detection accuracy improves, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by capturing baseline images of the reflective and dark regions during the idle state, before actual banknote processing begins. These baseline images are stored and subsequently used for comparison during foreign object detection. This approach improves detection accuracy by having reference data ready in advance, while minimizing processing time loss since the baseline capture occurs during otherwise unused idle periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically capturing baseline images during idle states and using them for subsequent detection operations. The baseline images serve as self-generated reference data that enables the system to detect foreign objects without requiring external calibration or manual setup, thereby improving accuracy while efficiently utilizing idle processing time.
3Reliability
If a reflective region and dark region are included in the imaging zone, then foreign object detection capability improves, but the banknote path design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by applying local quality - incorporating reflective and dark regions as localized features within specific portions of the banknote path rather than redesigning the entire system. The reflective region and dark region are positioned in the imaging zone to provide contrasting backgrounds for detection, enhancing detection capability while maintaining relatively simple overall banknote path design.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflective and dark regions serve as intermediaries between the light source and the foreign objects. These regions modulate light to create contrasting backgrounds that enhance the visibility of foreign objects in captured images. By introducing these intermediary elements into the imaging zone, the system improves detection capability without requiring complex changes to the banknote transport mechanism or overall system architecture.
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
The system effectively detects foreign objects of varying colors and transparencies, preventing them from being pulled back out of the validator and ensuring smooth banknote processing without jamming, enhancing the reliability of automated payment systems.
Implementation Method 1
a reflective region in a first portion of the banknote imaging zone
Implementation Method 2
a dark region in a second portion of the banknote imaging zone
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
This disclosure relates to a banknote validator (102). The banknote validator (102) comprises a banknote path (208) formed within an interior of the banknote validator (102) to transport a banknote from an opening of the banknote path (208) through an interior of the banknote validator (102), a banknote imaging zone (506) defined within a portion of the banknote path (208), the banknote imaging zone (506) including a reflective region (302) in a first portion of the banknote imaging zone (506), and a dark region (304) in a second portion of the banknote imaging zone (506), and an image sensor (203) configured to capture one or more images of at least a portion of the banknote imaging zone (506).