Cash Validator Tape Detection via Light Barrier Segmentation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Vending machines and cash validators face challenges in reliably detecting transparent tapes or thin layers of glue applied to documents, such as banknotes, which can compromise their value, leading to potential financial losses if such documents are accepted as valid.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a light source, light receiver, and light barrier arrangement that detects tapes by measuring light intensity changes when a document is scanned, with deformable materials and mechanical mechanisms to ensure effective contact and enhanced detection capabilities, including the use of IR light and adaptive force based on document properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a light barrier is used to detect transparent tape on documents, then detection capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light barrier is divided into multiple segments or zones along the document path, allowing detection at multiple positions without requiring a single complex high-power barrier. This segmentation enables targeted detection of tape locations while simplifying individual barrier components.
Solution Approach 2:
A deformable intermediary element (such as a compliant roller or pressure-sensitive material) is introduced between the light barrier and document to ensure consistent contact pressure. This intermediary mediates the interaction, allowing the rigid light barrier to maintain proper spacing while the deformable element adapts to document variations.
2Measurement precision
If the light barrier contacts the document to prevent light transmission, then detection accuracy is improved, but the risk of document damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light barrier incorporates flexible or deformable contact surfaces that can conform to the document without exerting excessive force. This flexibility allows the barrier to maintain optical contact while adapting to document thickness variations and preventing mechanical damage to delicate documents.
Solution Approach 2:
A cushioning layer or compliant element is positioned between the light barrier and document surface to absorb excessive contact pressure. This beforehand cushioning prevents direct transmission of high forces to the document while maintaining sufficient contact for light barrier functionality.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple light barriers are arranged across the document width, then detection coverage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple light barriers are merged into a single integrated assembly or housing structure, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying installation. The barriers share common mounting mechanisms, light sources, or control electronics, thereby decreasing overall device complexity while maintaining wide detection coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The light barrier system is designed with multi-functional capabilities where a single barrier assembly can detect various types of defects (tape, glue, tears) across different document positions. This universality reduces the need for specialized barriers for each defect type, simplifying the overall device 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 solution enables reliable detection of tapes with high sensitivity and accuracy, preventing the acceptance of damaged documents and minimizing false rejections, thus ensuring the integrity of transactions and reducing financial losses.
Implementation Method 1
an amount of light is transmitted from the light source through the piece of tape to the light receiver on the other side of the light barrier
Data Source
AI summary
A device and a system for detecting a tape or a piece of glue on a document and methods for detecting a tape or a piece of glue on a document are described. The device comprises at least one light source, at least one light receiver and at least one light barrier. The at least one light source is arranged on a first side of the at least one light barrier and the at least one light receiver is arranged on a second side of the at least one light barrier opposite to the first side. The light barrier is configured to come into contact with a document to prevent or reduce light emitted from the light source on the first side of the light barrier to be transmitted to the light receiver on the second side of the light barrier.