BR112022004283B1 - MODULAR SAFE BOCA DE LOBO - Google Patents

Abstract

MODULAR SELF-SERVICE BOCA DE LOBO Vaults introduces new modular smart management devices in the form of mouth-of-wolf safes that include the modular components of a chassis, door, and technology cabinet. Mouth vaults allow retailers to quickly and securely make cash deposits in or near their own premises. Various technologies, including RFID readers, RFID tags and other equipment, allow the manhole safes to identify each deposited bag. Employees use specialized applications on their mobile devices to facilitate deposit creation and other tasks. New methodologies for accessing vault vaults for emptying employ single-use, expiration-time authorization codes, along with other security measures to minimize risk and provide other benefits. New frameworks along with methodologies to replace, in-place, modular components with automatic functionality detection during boot and restart enables efficient replacement and updating of components, including updating vaults, to provide additional functionality.

Description

Field of Invention

[0001] Handling cash can be a slow, manual process that consumes time, money, and valuable resources. It can also be a security risk for employees and business locations.

[0002] The present invention is directed to new modular intelligent money management devices. For convenience, such modular intelligent money management devices are here referred to as modular storm vaults.

[0003] More specifically, the present invention is directed to new modular vaults and new systems/processes that allow retailers to quickly and securely make cash deposits in or near their own premises. The present invention is further directed to new systems/processes to remove the contents of the vaults, new systems/methods to replace the modular components of the vaults and new systems/methods to convert a type of vault vault to another type with different and/or increased capacity. The present invention is specifically directed to modular self-service safes with these characteristics, designed to be placed within the retailer's premises, which allow the retailer to use their own mobile devices or employee badges to make cash deposits in the safes. wolf that track the location of warehouses and facilitate credit to the retailer for these warehouses.

Description of the State of the Art

[0004] Document US2004210515 discloses a deposit system and a method for receiving a deposit from a user. In one aspect, a deposit system is provided for receiving a deposit from a user. The deposit system includes a deposit processor with a user interface to allow the user to communicate deposit information to the deposit processor before the user makes a deposit, the deposit information including an indication of the type of deposit as being a cash deposit and one non-cash deposit; at least one vault operatively connected to the deposit processor, each vault being configured to receive at least one cash deposit and one non-cash deposit, and each vault having a first lockable access thereto, at least one vault capable of receiving cash deposits and non-cash deposits; and a reader, operatively connected to the warehouse processor, for reading a warehouse tag to identify the warehouse using warehouse information. Upon identification of the deposit, the deposit processor unlocks the first lockable access to one of at least one vault to allow the user to deposit the deposit therein.

[0005] Document US20170098134 discloses a document processing device convertible between a first configuration and a second configuration including an input receptacle, a transport mechanism, a scanner and a convertible output area. The input receptacle is configured to receive documents, including banknotes. The transport mechanism is configured to transport the documents along an input receptacle transport path. The scanner is positioned along the transport path and is configured to scan at least a portion of each of the transported documents to generate data associated with them. The convertible output area is configured to be selectively mated with a first output set and a second output set.

Objectives and Summary of the Invention

[0006] With hardware designed for efficiency, the manhole safes of the present invention provide a more intuitive experience for all users. By securing in-store deposits in a quick and streamlined way, mouth of wolf safes allow teams to spend less time on hardware training and more time on core business activities.

[0007] Modality incorporation of deposit identification methodologies works seamlessly with Brink's software applications to accept physical cash deposits without the need for an on-device display. Users can conveniently generate, scan and make deposits from within the store.

[0008] Once the deposits are made in the boca de lobo vaults, a credit process is initiated and the physical money is protected against loss. Employees who previously went to the bank to make deposits can now remain safely in the store and focus on customers. Companies using strong car services no longer need to rely on scheduled pickups. Retailers no longer have responsibility for cash at the point of deposit, and cash is collected from mouth of wolf vaults periodically or when they reach full capacity.

[0009] The present invention includes several main embodiments: the Brink's manhole safe (called, for convenience, "Brink's Box"), the Brink's B-Safe manhole (called, for convenience, "the B-Safe" Safe"), and Brink's small-form-factor bill recycler louvered safe (called, for convenience, "the Recycler Safe"). The names of these modalities are provided for convenience and ease of reference only. Variations of these embodiments and other embodiments of the invention are also discussed.

[0010] Brink’s Box is a secure cash management device designed to accept cash deposits in sealed bags called Smart Bags. Digital deposits are created using Brink's software applications, and the deposit bags are scanned and dumped into a Brink's Box to transfer custody from the company to Brink's (or another facilitator). Deposits accepted at Brink's Box are then transmitted to a central server for validation, and then to the retailer's bank account. Advance credit accelerates bank deposits.

[0011] B-Safe is a secure cash management device designed to accept individual bills through built-in bill validators as well as Smart Bag deposits. Bill validators eliminate the need for employees to count cash and create deposit bags. This complementary feature speeds up the deposit process and allows for a quick turnaround of the process.

[0012] Recycler Safe is a secure cash management device designed to accept and recycle bills through an integrated small form factor bill recycler. Recycler Safe also accepts deposits in Smart Bags. By employing a small form factor banknote recycler, the recycler banknote dispenser delivers banknotes that have been accepted by the recycler's banknote depository, thereby improving productivity and operational efficiency.

[0013] After the vault verifies the employee's identity, which can be accomplished in several different ways, employees make deposits simply by inserting bills into the bill validator. By identifying the employee for each deposit, user access is tightly controlled and each transaction is logged back to the employee, allowing full chain-of-custody tracking. Credit for deposits accepted in B-Safe, Brink's Box, Recycler Safe or other arrangements described herein are provided to the bank account.

[0014] These and other features and benefits of the invention are described herein.

[0015] To achieve the above, we present below a brief summary of some of the various embodiments of the present invention and some of the numerous aspects/functionalities of these embodiments.

[0016] According to certain embodiments of the present invention, the inventive modular manhole safe comprises three modular components: a chassis, a door and a technology cabinet. The chassis includes a set of walls that define an internal storage space (along with a door opening). The door is attached to the chassis and can be moved between open and closed positions. The door includes at least one controllable digital lock designed to latch and thus be maintained in a closed and latched position. The door, when unlocked, can be opened. The door also includes a lockable bag drop opening designed to be controlled and unlocked to allow a bag (e.g. a drop bag containing something of value) to be placed within the bag drop opening to cause the bag inside the bag hopper opening falls into the chassis' internal storage space. The technology cabinet is on the outside of the chassis and has various technologies, including at least one (or more) processor adapted/designed/programmed to provide control data to the digital lock and the lockable bag deposit opening in the door, in order to control these functional devices at the door. The door may include other functional equipment, such as a small form factor bill validator and/or bill recycler, or other equipment for retailer use. In addition, the technology cabinet includes a reader designed/adapted/programmed to identify bags (eg, deposit bags) placed within the chassis' internal storage space, and provide user identification and authentication in all communications.

[0017] As an aspect of these embodiments of the present invention, the reader in the technology cabinet is an RFID reader, and the chassis includes, disposed within its internal storage space, at least one RFID antenna. In addition, a set of cables runs between the RFID reader inside the technology cabinet and the RFID antenna(s) inside the chassis. The RFID reader is designed/adapted/programmed to use the RFID antenna to detect RFID tag IDs inside the bags that are placed inside the chassis' internal storage space.

[0018] As another aspect of the invention, the internal part of the chassis includes electronic devices consisting only of the RFID antenna(s), cables and the RFID tags of any bags that are placed within the internal storage space of the chassis .

[0019] As another aspect of the invention, the technology cabinet includes a reader adapted/designed to detect a unique identification of some kind (externally provided), and the processor within the technology cabinet controls the opening of deposit bags to unlock, when the reader detects the unique identification of the deposit bag, which includes at least one item of value to be deposited inside the modular vault.

[0020] As a further aspect of the invention, the unique identification is a bar code or a QR code placed on the outside of the deposit bag, and the code represents the identification of the deposit bag.

[0021] As an additional aspect of the invention, the reader inside the technological shelf is an RFID reader, which reads the ID of the RFID tag inside the deposit bag to be deposited, and the bag deposit opening is opened after reading this ID.

[0022] As yet another aspect of the invention, the technology cabinet includes a reader to detect the unique ID, which represents the identity of the person seeking access to the bag deposit opening of the boca de lobo safe. The technology cabinet controls the opening of the bag deposit to unlock, when the reader detects the unique ID of the person who is considered as authorized to access the opening of the bag deposit. The unique ID can be a code (eg barcode or QR code) displayed on the person's badge, or the ID from an RFID tag inside the badge (or using other communication with the badge).

[0023] As yet another aspect, the technology cabinet includes short range communication equipment, adapted to receive the request from a mobile device from the person seeking access to the bag deposit opening, and to receive from the mobile device data identifying the current location of the mobile device. The technology cabinet is adapted to control the bag deposit opening at the door, to unlock when it is verified that the person associated with the mobile device seeking access to the bag deposit opening of the boca de wolf safe is authorized to access the opening of bag deposit, and the mobile device is at a predetermined distance from the location of the mouth of wolf safe.

[0024] As yet another aspect, the technology cabinet includes a box along with the RF communications equipment placed within that box, and the box is made of a material that allows the passage of RF signals to/from the equipment of RF communication external to the technology cabinet.

[0025] As yet another aspect of the present invention, the culvert safe can be converted into a culvert safe having different functionality. In particular, the door is a modular first door, and the modular manhole is configured to allow the first modular door to be replaced by a second modular door without moving the modular manhole from its current position. The second modular door includes a controllable digital lock and lockable bag deposit opening, which are the same as the controllable digital lock and lockable bag deposit opening of the first modular door, and the second modular door further includes at least a banknote validator. As an additional aspect of the invention, the mouth vault can be converted into a recycler safe that includes a small form factor bill recycler. The mouth of wolf safe can be converted into other types of safe, still having a different functionality.

[0026] As a further aspect of the invention, the door includes a pair of bill validators, and the chassis includes a box placed below the bill validators, to catch bills passing through these bill validators.

[0027] As an additional aspect of the invention, none of the bill validators include or use a cartridge designed to contain a predefined number of bills that have passed through one of the bill validators.

[0028] As yet another aspect of the invention, the technology cabinet is fully removable from the chassis without any need to open the door or access the internal storage space of the chassis.

[0029] As an additional aspect of the invention, the technology cabinet is removablely coupled to the top of the chassis via at least one mounting rail. The mounting rail (or rails) is adapted/designed to allow the technology cabinet, when not attached to the chassis, to be slidable relative to a chassis position, and adapted/designed to allow the technology cabinet to be fully removable of the mounting rail when the mounting rail is at or near its full length.

[0030] As another aspect, the technology cabinet includes memory with a program stored within it, which, when executed, causes at least the processor to perform a self-detection process, which comprises the following steps/activities/functions: communication with each functional device placed within the door to verify the identities of all functional devices within the door, communication with a central server, via communications equipment within the technology cabinet, the determined identities of all functional devices within the door, and receipt from the central server, via communications equipment within the technology cabinet, of program code adapted to allow the technology cabinet to control each functional device within the port.

[0031] As a specific feature of this aspect, the technology cabinet is pre-programmed, prior to assembly within the modular draft vault, to perform the auto-detection process on an initial installation within the modular draft vault. Thus, after mounting the vault and after its initialization, the self-detection process is properly carried out.

[0032] As another feature of this aspect, the modular storm vault can be modified by replacing its current door with a new door, and then the technology cabinet is designed/adapted/programmed to perform the self-detection process after the door is replaced through the new door. Thus, the technology cabinet verifies the identities of all functional devices within the new port and communicates this information to the central server. The tech cabinet then receives the program code that allows it to control every functional device within the new port. The new door includes a controllable digital lock and at least one additional functional device (for example, the new door could be a Brink's Box, B-Safe, Recycler, or other type of trap door mentioned here).

[0033] As a further aspect of the invention, the technology cabinet includes GPS functionality to determine its own location, and adapted/programmed communication equipment to transmit the found location of the technology cabinet to a central server in order to provide the current location of the modular vault (for example, to be included in your database and for use in created warehouse records).

[0034] As another aspect of the invention, the technology cabinet includes short-range communication equipment, adapted to communicate with the mobile device of the person authorized to make a deposit in the vault and to receive and transmit data to that device mobile referring to the deposit to be made or that has been made in the boca de lobo safe. In a specific embodiment of the present invention, data is transmitted to the mobile device for the purpose of the mobile device to further transmit the data to the central processor for further processing, such as to create an escrow record corresponding to the transmitted data (and possibly to provide a retailer credit). In this “disconnected” mode, the boca de lobo safe does not have the capacity to communicate with the central server through a communication protocol via RF, that is, via Wi-Fi, cell phone (for example, LTE/4G) or another medium or long range communication technique.

[0035] Various other aspects and features associated with the apparatus/embedded systems of the present invention are provided in the detailed description section below. Other apparatus/system embodiments are also discussed in more detail and the foregoing should not be construed to represent the only apparatus/system embodiments of the invention.

[0036] According to certain methods/processes of the embodiments of the present invention, in summary, the present invention involves the creation of a vault deposit placed in, or close to, a retail location through the following steps. Receiving, by the central server, the deposit information from a mobile device, the deposit information including at least one identity of a thing of value to be deposited in the boca de lobo safe. Receive, by the central server, the identification of a deposit bag that includes the thing of value to be deposited. Creation, by the central server, of a deposit record associated with the deposit bag ID and which includes data regarding the deposit information received from the mobile device. Receive, through the mouth of the lock box, either the identity of the person who deposits the deposit bag in the delivery box or the identification of the deposit bag. Unblock, through the manhole safe, the bag deposit opening, based on the identity received from the person or the identification received from the deposit bag. Receive, through the mouth of the wolf box, the deposit bag. Verify, through the storm drain safe, that the deposit bag is inside an internal storage space of the storm drain safe after receiving the deposit bag. Communicate, through the mouth of wolf safe to the central server, upon verification, that the deposit bag is inside the internal storage space of the mouth of wolf safe.

[0037] As an aspect of these embodiments, the thing of value is an amount of money, and the method further comprises arranging, by the central server, to provide a monetary credit to the retailer, in accordance with the amount of money in the bag deposit based on the deposit information in the deposit record that was received from the mobile device.

[0038] As an aspect of these modalities, the boca de wolf safe receives the person's identity by scanning a code on the person's badge (or something else he/she is carrying), in which the code represents the person's identity. The method also comprises the transmission, through the mouth of the vault, of the scanned code to the central server, verifying, by the central server, the identity of the person, based on the transmitted scanned code, and verifying, by the central server, if the identified person is authorized to use the mouth of wolf safe and, if so, transmitting an unlocking instruction to the mouth of wolf safe. The unblocking, by the manhole safe, of the bag deposit opening comprises the unblocking of the bag deposit opening after receiving the unblocking instruction from the central server.

[0039] As another aspect of these modalities, the method also comprises the receipt, by the central server, from the mobile device, of a request for access to the bag deposit opening of the mouth of wolf safe, verifying, by the central server, the identity of the person based on one or more communications from the mobile device, receiving, by the central server from the mobile device, data identifying a current location of the mobile device, determining, by the central server, whether the current location of the mobile device is within from a pre-determined distance from a location in the safe mouth, verifying, by the central server, if the identified person is authorized to access the bag deposit opening, based, at least, on the proven identity of the person and, if so, the current location of the mobile device is within the pre-determined distance from the location of the boca de lobo safe, and if so, transmit an unlock instruction to the boca de lobo safe. The unblocking, by the mouth of wolf safe, of the bag deposit opening, is carried out after receiving the unblocking instruction from the central server.

[0040] As another aspect, the deposit bags inside the internal storage space of the boca de lobo safe are photographed, and the ID of each of the deposit bags is identified by the image.

[0041] As an additional aspect, the ID of each RFID tag within the internal storage space of the boca de lobo safe is obtained, and the identification of the deposit bag that is associated with the deposit record created is identified from those IDs obtained .

[0042] As an additional aspect, the ID of each RFID tag within the internal storage space of the boca de lobo safe is performed by an RFID reader that is placed outside the internal storage space of the boca de lobo safe, in communication with at least least one RFID antenna that is placed inside the internal storage space of the boca de wolf safe.

[0043] As yet another aspect, several deposit bags are received by the vault, each including a respective RFID tag, and the IDs of all RFID tags are read by the RFID reader.

[0044] As a feature of this aspect, the method further comprises verifying that the deposit bag thrown into the mouth of wolf safe is removed from the mouth of wolf safe based on data relating to the identified IDs obtained during a series of identifications of the IDs of the tags RFID inside the mouth of wolf safe.

[0045] As a further aspect, where the thing of value is an amount of money, the method further comprises creating, by the central server, a respective deposit record corresponding to each of a plurality of deposit bags, and provisioning, by the central server, a monetary credit to the retailer according to the total amount of money in the plurality of deposit bags received by the vault in the created deposit records.

[0046] As yet another embodiment, the method comprises receiving, by the central server, from the mobile device, an identity of the mobile device, and verifying that the identity of the mobile device corresponds to an authorized employee of the retailer associated with the boca de lobo safe .

[0047] As yet another embodiment, the method further comprises the central server receiving from the mobile device, data identifying the current location of the mobile device, identifying the lockbox associated with the current location of the mobile device, and associating the data received from the device mobile to the identified mouth of wolf safe.

[0048] As yet another embodiment, the method comprises including the current identified location of the mobile device within the created deposit record.

[0049] As another aspect, the method further comprises identifying the closest vault to the current location of the mobile device, and communicating data to the mobile device relating to the closest vault to the current location of the mobile device to the subsequent transfer to the mobile device user.

[0050] As a feature of this aspect, navigation instructions from the current location of the mobile device to the identified safe mouth are provided to the mobile device for use by the user of the mobile device.

[0051] Various other aspects and features associated with these process/method embodiments of the present invention are provided in the detailed description section below.

[0052] According to certain embodiments of the method/process of the present invention, in a summarized format, the present invention involves accessing a mouth of wolf safe placed in a retail location or close to a retail location for the purpose of emptying it. it by an Agent. The method comprises: scheduling, by the central server, to assign an Agent to empty a storm vault placed at or near the retail location; receive, via the central server, data from an Agent's mobile device that includes the Agent's identification and a current location of the mobile device; verify, through the central server, that the identified Agent is authorized to empty the vault; receive, by the central server, from the mobile device, a code that uniquely identifies the vault; identify, by the central server, the identity of the mouth of wolf safe based on the received code; verify, through the central server, the location of the identified vault; determine, by the central server, whether the current location of the mobile device is within a predetermined distance from the verified location of the mouth of wolf safe; generating, by the central server, a one-time authorization code to open the mouth of wolf safe if the current location of the mobile device is within the predetermined distance of the verified location of the mouth of wolf safe; communicate, by the central server, the generated one-time authorization code to the mobile device; receive, by the mouth of wolf safe, from the mobile device, the one-time authorization code communicated by the central server; determining whether the received one-time authorization code matches the one-time authorization code generated by the central server; and unlocking and opening the vault door to provide Agent access to the vault for subsequent emptying if the received one-time authorization code is determined to match the server-generated one-time authorization code central.

[0053] As an aspect of these modalities, the code that uniquely identifies that the mouth of wolf safe corresponds to a computer-readable code displayed on the mouth of wolf safe is taken by a camera on the mobile device.

[0054] As an additional aspect, the code that uniquely identifies the lockbox is the ID of the RFID tag associated with the lockbox that is read by the reader associated with the mobile device.

[0055] As another aspect, the location of the identified storm vault is identified by the vault itself (i.e., using its own GPS), which is transmitted to the central server.

[0056] As an additional aspect, the one-time authorization code is a time-dependent code, and the method further comprises determining, by the central server, whether the received one-time authorization code was received by the vault within of a period of time, or when the one-time authorization code has been generated and, if not, the unlocking and opening of the vault door is inhibited.

[0057] As yet another aspect of the invention, the one-time authorization code generated by the central server is based on multiple data elements, including at least data relating to the authorized Agent and data representing the identity or location of the safe box of wolf.

[0058] As yet another aspect, the one-time authorization code is displayed by the mobile device, which is then scanned using a reader inside the boca de wolf vault.

[0059] As yet another aspect, the one-time authorization code is wirelessly received from the mobile device via a short-range communication protocol.

[0060] Still as an additional aspect, before unlocking and opening the mouth of the mouth safe door, the ID of the RFID tag of each bag deposited inside the mouth of lobe safe is identified, to identify all the bags inside the mouth of lobe safe which must be removed by the Agent when unlocking and opening the door.

[0061] As a feature of this aspect, the number of bags inside the vault to be removed is transmitted to the mobile device for subsequent instruction to the Agent.

[0062] As an additional feature, after the vault door is unlocked and opened to allow Agent access, the central server receives from the device operated by the Agent data representing the IDs of all deposit bags that were removed by the Agent (for example, the Agent scans each deposit bag as it is being removed from the draft vault or scans it afterwards). The central server verifies that the data transmitted from the removed bag matches the IDs of all RFID tags that have been identified from being inside the vault before unlocking and opening the vault door.

[0063] As an additional aspect, the RFID reader is placed outside the internal storage area of the boca de lobo safe using at least one RFID antenna placed inside the internal storage space of the deposit space.

[0064] As another aspect, the door is closed and locked, and the ID of the RFID tag of any bag remaining inside the vault after closing and locking the door is checked, to determine whether all bags inside the vault of wolf were removed before the closing of the door. As a feature, if any bag is detected inside the vault, the Agent is informed.

[0065] Additional aspects and features associated with these process/method embodiments of the present invention are provided in the detailed description below.

[0066] According to certain embodiments of the method/process of the present invention, in the summarized format, the present invention implies a method of replacing the technology cabinet of the modular vault vault. The method comprises servicing a modular storm vault that includes a modular chassis, a modular door, and a modular technology cabinet, each having certain characteristics. Service includes: physically removing technology cabinet from chassis, disconnecting cable assembly between technology cabinet and port from chassis, connecting cable assembly between new technology cabinet and port, connecting cable assembly between the new technology cabinet and the door, attach the new technology cabinet to the chassis, and initialize the new technology cabinet, to allow the modular vault to function to provide control data and power to the various functional devices in the wolf's mouth vault.

[0067] As an aspect of these embodiments, the steps employed to replace the technology cabinet are all done without the door being placed in the open position and without any need to access the internal storage space of the chassis.

[0068] As an additional aspect of these embodiments, the vault being serviced employs a set of cables that extend from the chassis internal storage space door and extend from within the internal storage space through an opening in the chassis for the technology cabinet.

[0069] As another aspect of these embodiments, the startup of the new technology cabinet comprises determining, by the technology cabinet processor, identities of all functional devices within the port, communicating, by the technology cabinet to a remote central server, the verified identities of all functional devices within the port, and receiving, by the technology cabinet from the central server, program code adapted to allow the technology cabinet to control each functional device within the port.

[0070] As an additional aspect of these modalities, the vault technology cabinet being serviced includes a reader adapted to identify the bags placed inside the internal storage space of the chassis.

[0071] As a feature of this aspect, the reader is an RFID reader and the chassis of the modular vault being serviced includes, placed within the internal storage space, at least one RFID antenna coupled to the RFID reader through an antenna cable , the RFID reader and RFID antenna collectively adapted to determine IDs from RFID tags placed within the internal storage space of the chassis. Here, the disconnection step further comprises disconnecting the antenna cable between the RFID reader in the technology cabinet and at least one RFID antenna on the chassis, and the connection step further comprises connecting the antenna cable between the RFID reader and, at least one RFID antenna.

[0072] As yet another aspect of the invention, the technology cabinet of the modular vault being serviced is attached to the top of the chassis via at least one sliding mounting rail. During the method, the step of physically removing the technology cabinet from the cabinet involves sliding the technology cabinet through the sliding mounting rail from a fully-in-chassis position to a fully-out-of-chassis position, and the docking action the new technology cabinet to the chassis involves installing the new technology cabinet on the slide-mount rail and sliding the new technology cabinet through the slide-mount rail into position fully in the chassis.

[0073] Additional aspects and features associated with these process/method embodiments of the present invention are provided in the detailed description below.

[0074] According to certain embodiments of the method/process of the present invention, in the summarized format, the present invention implies a method of converting/servicing the modular vault vault obtaining access to the modular vault vault (the door is unlocked and placed in its open position), disconnecting the cable assembly from the port, physically removing the door from the chassis, physically installing a new port in the chassis, plugging the cable assembly into the new port, and rebooting the technology cabinet to allow the Modular manhole vault works to allow control and power of functional devices within the new door.

[0075] As an aspect of these embodiments, the new port has a different set of functions than the replaced port, and the reset entails determining the identities of all functional devices within the new port, communicating these identities to the remote central server, and receiving , by the technology cabinet, a program code adapted/designed to allow the technology cabinet to control each functional device within the new port.

[0076] As another aspect of these embodiments, the door physically removed from the chassis includes a controllable digital lock and a lockable bag deposit opening, and the new door includes a controllable digital lock and at least one bill validator (i.e., Brink's Box is converted to B-Safe).

[0077] As another aspect of these modalities, the door physically removed from the chassis includes a controllable digital lock and a lockable bag deposit opening, and the new door includes a controllable digital lock and a small form factor banknote recycler (i.e. , Brink's Box is converted to Recycler Safe).

[0078] As additional aspects of the present invention, a storm vault of one type can be converted into a storm vault of another type (i.e., with different functionality) by physically replacing the door as summarized above and then resetting the technology cabinet.

[0079] In addition to the above, embodiments of process corresponding to the above summarized embodiments of apparatus are provided and, on the other hand, embodiments of apparatus and/or system corresponding to the above summarized embodiments of methods are provided.

[0080] Various other objects, advantages and features of the present invention will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0081] The following detailed description, provided by way of example and not intended to limit the present invention solely thereto, will be best appreciated in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals denote like elements and parts, in the which: - Figure 1 shows an example of the Brink's Box of the present invention; - Figure 2 shows an example of the B-Safe of the present invention; - Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of the Brink's Box; - Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of the B-Safe; - Figure 4A is a schematic illustration of the Recycler Safe; - Figure 5 is a schematic illustration of the Smart Bag of the present invention; - Figure 6 is a block diagram of the various entities involved in the processes of the present invention; - Figure 7 shows an example of the chassis of the mouth of wolf safes of the present invention; - Figure 8 shows an example of the exterior of the Brink’s Box door; - Figure 9 is a functional block diagram of the Brink's Box door; - Figure 10 shows an example of the exterior of the B-Safe door; - Figure 11 is a functional block diagram of the B-Safe port; - Figure 12A shows an example of a B-Safe chassis that includes an example of a box that captures bills passing through B-Safe bill validators; - Figure 12B shows an example of a case liner within the case example that captures bills passing through the B-Safe bill validators; - Figure 13 is a functional block diagram of Recycler Safe; - Figure 14A is a block diagram of the technology shelf of the present invention; - Figure 14B shows an example of the front exterior of the technology shelf; - Figure 15 is a flowchart of the technology shelf configuration, according to the present invention; - Figure 16A shows an example of the rear exterior of the technology shelf, according to a specific embodiment of the technology shelf; - Figures 16B, 16C and 16D illustrate how the technology shelf is removed from the vault vault, according to an embodiment of the present invention; - Figure 16E shows an example of the upper part of the chassis with the technology shelf removed in certain embodiments; - Figures 17A to 17G show various views of the interconnection between the chassis and the tec shelf, according to another embodiment of the present invention; - Figures 18A and 18B show structures for fixing the door to the chassis, according to a specific embodiment of the present invention; - Figures 18C and 18D show structures for fixing the door to a chassis, according to another embodiment of the present invention; - Figure 19 is a flowchart of the deposit creation process of the present invention; - Figure 20 is a flowchart of the banknote insertion process of the present invention; and - Figures 21A and 21B collectively show a flow chart of the Agent withdrawal process of the present invention.

Detailed Description of the Present Invention

[0082] The present invention relates to modular smart cash management devices that allow retailers to conveniently and quickly make cash deposits within their own premises to minimize risk, time and resources. Retailers use their own mobile devices (eg smartphones, tablets, etc.) to facilitate cash deposits within the modular devices of the present invention and receive real-time information about deposits on the same mobile devices. The removal of contents is done by the Agents using their own smartphones or other portable smart device. The present invention further entails various new processes for making deposits, new processes for withdrawing the deposited contents, new processes for replacing the modular components within the devices, and new processes for converting these devices to an increased, improved or modified capacity.

[0083] Modular smart money management devices, in many of the embodiments described here, are modular storm vaults. However, some sports (or variations of other sports) may not employ a deposit slot. For convenience, each of the modalities described here (and their variations) are referred to in this document as “boca boca de lobo”. Accordingly, the term "mouth safe" as used herein includes safes that include a deposit opening that accepts the Smart Bag of the present invention or other type of bag, envelope or receptacle containing something of value, and also includes safes that may not include a deposit slot, but they do accept bills or other valuables (eg via bill validator).

[0084] The manhole safes of the present invention, with their modular design, are quickly configurable, useful, upgradeable and designed to allow updating that includes capabilities/functionalities developed in the future. As will be described, and as an example of the upgradeability of the vaults, the Brink's Box (i.e., a vault without bill validators) is modifiable on site to be converted/upgraded to a B-Safe (i.e., a vault that includes banknote validators).

[0085] The manhole safe, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is called, for the convenience of this document, Brink's Box (as mentioned above). An example of a Brink's Box is shown in Figure 1 of the drawings. A manhole safe, according to another embodiment of the present invention, is called, for convenience, a B-Safe (also as mentioned above). An example of B-Safe is shown in Figure 2 of the drawings. As will be discussed, the main difference between Brink's Box and B-Safe is that B-Safe includes cash acceptance, identification and authenticity verification equipment. Such equipment/technology is able to accept the note, recognize its nominal value, verify its authenticity, and dispense the note (inside the safe). As understood within the art, banknote validators serve this functionality and therefore may be employed within various embodiments, as appropriate, of the present invention. Brink's Box and B-Safe operations are described below

[0086] The manhole safe, according to another embodiment of the present invention, is called, for convenience in this document, Recycler Safe (as mentioned above). As will be described, Recycler Safe includes equipment/technology that accepts and delivers bills in a controlled manner. A small form factor bill recycler performs such functionality and may be employed.

[0087] According to other embodiments of the present invention, the B-Safe and the Recycler Safe can be modified to omit an opening for deposits (and therefore not accept a deposited Smart Bag or other deposited bag, envelope, or receptacle containing something of value). These and other modalities are discussed below.

[0088] In addition to the function, operation and benefits of the Brink's Box, the B-Safe, the Recycler Safe and other modalities/variations described here, including new techniques for emptying these devices, a beneficial feature of the present invention is the ease with whereby one type of storm vault of the present invention, which is already installed and operating at the retailer's location, is easily converted into another type of storm vault of the present invention. Other features and benefits of the present invention are discussed.

Brink's Box:. Brief. Vision. General, from . hardware

[0089] Figure 3 shows a schematic illustration of Brink's Box 10 according to the present invention. Brink's Box 10 includes three main components: a chassis 100, a door 200, and a technology cabinet 300.

[0090] Chassis 100 is designed to securely hold deposited cash bags (or other things of value), and can be manufactured from any suitably strong material accepted by the industry. Chassis 100 includes deposited item sensor technology 110 designed to identify individual bags that have been deposited within the chassis. In one embodiment, the chassis includes an array of RFID antennas 110 (to be described). In another embodiment, optical recognition technology 110 is employed. Another technology to identify each deposited individual bag can be used.

[0091] The chassis 100 includes an internal volume (storage 120) that serves as a storage compartment sufficient to contain a certain number of deposited bags. The number of deposited bags that a storm vault can hold will generally be based on the needs of the end user. Examples of deposited bag numbers that can be contained, which are typically based on chassis size, include 25, 30, 35, 50, 80, 110, 150, etc. An optional customer storage compartment 130 may also be provided.

[0092] The door 200 of the Brink's Box engages with the chassis 100, and includes a lockable bag deposit mechanism/opening (deposit door mechanism 210), to allow the deposit inside the vault of deposit bags (also called Smart Bags in this document), which contain cash, coins and/or other items of value. Port 200 is designed for use with Brink's Box 10 and does not include any bill validators. Door 200 also includes a digital lock and associated lock 220 that can only be opened by an Authorized Agent employing the cash withdrawal process described herein. The port 200 electronics are controlled via cabling (via the port 222 interface) from the Brink's Box technology cabinet 300.

[0093] The technology cabinet 300 is attached to the top of the chassis 100 and includes most of the processing and communications for Brink's Box 10. The technology cabinet 300 is also called here, for convenience, the technology shelf, or simply , “tec shelf”. The tec shelf 300 includes the system and communications controller 310, deposited item identification and authentication 320, and deposited item and user authorization 330. Examples of structural components that correspond to these modules include a main controller board, an RFID reader, a scanner/barcode/QR code reader, to be discussed. In other modalities/variations, another technology is employed to perform the identification and authentication of the deposited item, as well as authorization of the deposited item and user, to be discussed.

B-Safe:. Brev® Summary .General. in. hardware

[0094] B-Safe 20 is shown schematically in Figure 4. The B-Safe 20 is similar to the Brink's Box 10 and includes the three main components of the chassis, door, and tec shelf. The chassis of the B-Safe is identical to the chassis 100 of the Brink's Box. The B-Safe tec shelf is identical (at least in terms of hardware) to the Brink's Box tec 300 shelf, but the B-Safe tec shelf controls its port differently than the Brink's Box tec 300 shelf. Control/function/operation of the tec shelf (for each modality) is discussed in detail in the Detailed Discussion provided below.

[0095] The B-Safe 20 employs a different port than the Brink's Box port. In particular, the B-Safe 20 includes a 400 port, which includes the ability to accept a bill, recognize its face value, verify its authenticity, and dispense the bill (within the safe's chassis). In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in Figure 4, a pair of bill validators 430 perform these functions. Also, retailers are able to deposit single bills of money (i.e. bills) into the B-Safe of the present invention. Incoming bills are stored within a storage space 440 (inside the B-Safe chassis 20). Door 400 also contains a bag deposit opening (deposit door mechanism) 410 and a digital lock/lock mechanism (digital lock and latch) 420 similar to those on door 200 of the Brink's Box. Also, like the Brink's Box, the port 400 electronics (i.e., the bill validators, the digital lock/lock, and the bag deposit opening) are controlled and communicated via cabling (via the port 422 interface) from the cabinet of technology 300.

[0096] In the B-Safe mode, the storage space 450 inside the chassis contains the deposited bags. Also, the B-Safe chassis may include a storage box 442 and a liner 444 (for that box) to capture bills that have been accepted by bill validators. The inventive features of B-Safe are described below.

Recycler Safe:_ Brief Overview _ Overview of. hardware

[0097] The Recycler Safe 30 is schematically shown in Figure 4A. The Recycler Safe 30 is similar to the Brink's Box 10 and the B-Safe 20 and also includes the three main components: the chassis, the door and the tec shelf. The chassis of the Recycler Safe is identical to the chassis of other draft safes. The Recycler Safe's tec shelf is also structurally identical to other downdraft safes. However, the Recycler Safe's tec shelf handles its door differently as it controls the function/operation of the small form factor bill recycler included within the Recycler Safe's door.

[0098] The door 450 of the Recycler Safe includes a bag deposit opening (deposit door mechanism) 460 and a digital closing/locking mechanism (digital lock and latch) 470, like those of Brink's Box and B-Safe. The storage space 495 within the chassis contains the deposited bags.

[0099] Recycler Safe's 450 port also includes a small form factor bill recycler (380 bill deposit and 482 bill dispenser) to recycle bills as needed.

[0100] The electronics of port 450 (i.e., the small form factor bill recycler, the digital lock/lock, and the bag deposit opening) are controlled and communicated via cabling (via port 472 interface) from the cabinet technology 300 from Recycler Safe.

[0101] Other embodiments of the manhole vault, which include different hardware and functionality are discussed below.

[0102] The mouth of wolf safes of the various modalities of the present invention accept banknotes contained within the deposited Smart Bags, via bill validators, via bill recycler with small form factor, and/or via other equipment that accepts banknotes. For convenience, the term “note” or “notes” as used in this document refers to a bank note (or bank notes). Other common banknote terms include “cash”, “cash money”, “paper money” and “paper money”. These terms, together with the term “note” and other terms, are used interchangeably in this document to refer to banknotes.

Smart Bag: Overview

[0103] Embodiments of the present invention that include a bag deposit opening are designed to receive a tamperproof sealing deposit bag, also called Smart Bag here. Smart Bag is used by retailers to make deposits in the manner described in this document. The Smart Bag of the present invention includes active and/or passive technology that allows technology inside the manhole safes to uniquely identify each deposited Smart Bag.

[0104] In one embodiment, which is schematically shown in Figure 5, the Smart Bag 500 is shown to comprise a bag 510 that includes certain information printed (or otherwise provided) on the outside of the bag. Such information includes a unique bar code 512 and an eye readable identification number 514. Preferably, bar code 512 represents the same human eye readable number 514.

[0105] For the convenience of this document, the term “print”, “printed information”, “printed text” and others includes information, numbers, texts and other indications (for example, icons, graphics, photos, figures, etc.), which is visibly provided by a person and/or a camera (and others), whether such information is actually in print or not. For example, information may be recorded or otherwise visibly provided (without actually being “in print”). Likewise, the term “print” and other terms are used to indicate broadly visible information.

[0106] In other modalities and variations, instead of providing printed information (or in addition to providing printed information), appropriate technology is used to provide information in an audible manner. For example, in one embodiment, the Smart Bag 500 includes the ability to audibly provide the human eye readable identification number 514. Such functionality is beneficial under certain circumstances, such as in low light areas, for use by the visually impaired, and /or in other situations. Since the technology of providing audible information is well known, further details are not discussed in this document, except where particularly necessary for understanding the present invention.

[0107] The Smart Bag 500, in certain embodiments, includes an RFID tag 520 embedded within the bag 510. RFID tag placement and printed information can be provided in locations other than those shown in Figure 5. RFID tag 520 is preferably an industry standard Ultra High Frequency RFID tag, although other types of RFID tags may be employed where appropriate. The ID of the RFID tag can represent the same number represented by the bar code and/or the human eye readable identification number.

[0108] In another embodiment, the RFID tag is omitted from the Smart Bag. In yet another embodiment, either the unique bar code or the human-eye readable identification number is omitted. In alternative embodiments, instead of using a bar code, another computer reader indication is employed. For example, a QR Code can be used.

[0109] In several ways, Smart Bags can be sized to accommodate the needs of retail end users. For example, Smart Bags can be sized to accommodate 50 bills, 100 bills, 150 bills, 200 bills, 250 bills, etc. Additionally, Smart Bags can be sized to allow for coins to be included. In yet other embodiments, Smart Bags can be sized to accommodate other items of value (including things of sentimental value).

[0110] As described below, each Smart Bag deposited inside a vault of the present invention is identified/detected using the identification and authentication capabilities of the item deposited in the vault. In certain embodiments to be described, the mouth of wolf safe employs RFID technology capable of reading the ID of the RFID tag contained within each Smart Bag. In other modalities, the boca de wolf safe employs visual recognition technologies. In certain embodiments, combined identification and authentication capabilities are employed.

Other .Equipment: Vision. General

[0111] The safes of the present invention work in conjunction with mobile smartphones or smart tablets, such as iPhone, iPad, Android smartphone and the like. For the convenience of this document, the terms “mobile device”, “mobile phone”, “smartphone”, “portable device”, and others are used interchangeably, used in this document to refer to and include all cellular phones that support wireless communication protocols , and includes portable tablets and other portable electronic devices, such as the iPad mobile device, which support wireless communication protocols, such as cellular communication, Wi-Fi communication protocols, Bluetooth protocols and/or other long-range, medium-range protocols range and short range. In certain embodiments, the mobile device includes location identification capability, such as GPS.

[0112] The manhole safes of the present invention communicate and work together with a central server (or other remote computer system) via the Internet, cellular communication, or other form of long-distance communication. Figure 6 is a block diagram showing the various devices/entities that are involved in the processes of the present invention. In particular, the various devices/entities include the retailer 600, the cash processing unit 700, a transportation service 720, and the retailer's bank 750. Although four entities are shown, additional entities may also be involved. Furthermore, a single entity can perform the functions of two or more entities and therefore the total number of entities involved in the process can be different from that shown in Figure 6.

[0113] The retailer 600 includes the associated mouth of wolf safe 610, which may be the Brink's Box 10, the B-Safe 20, the Recycler Safe 30, or another modality or variation of the mouth of wolf safe, as described in this document. The 610 manhole safe can be placed within the retail location or in another location accessible to retailer employees.

[0114] As used in this document, the “retailer” is a company that provides goods and/or services, such as a retail store (for example, department store, supermarket, grocery store), a transportation provider (for example, airline, bus company) etc. For convenience, the generic term “retailer” is used in this document to refer to the company that provides goods and/or services in exchange for cash, and where the retailer sometimes (perhaps often) accepts physical cash in exchange for such goods. and/or services. In certain embodiments, the retailer may receive something of value (other than banknotes/coins) that is intended for temporary storage within a storm vault of the present invention. For convenience, the term “thing of value” is used in this document to refer to one or more bills, coins and/or other item(s) of value.

[0115] The 610 mouth of wolf safe can be physically placed inside the retailer's premises, such as inside the back office. The storm vault can also be placed within another retailer's physical space (for example, a neighboring store) that is accessible to retailer personnel, or within a common area. The term “common area” refers to a space accessible to multiple entities, such as multiple retailers, so that the drop box located in such a common area is accessible and therefore used by multiple entities. For example, a common area can be placed within a shopping center in a location accessible to shopping center tenants. The common area can include an area within a particular retailer that is accessible to other retailers. The term “placed” is intended to mean arranged or located where appropriate.

[0116] Other equipment/entities schematically shown in Figure 6 are discussed in the following sections.

Processes: Vision. General

[0117] Before using the manhole safe of the present invention, the retailer prepares for the deposit. Pursuant to the present invention, the retailer's manager or other designated person (collectively, for convenience, "manager"), uses his or her mobile device 620 (referred to herein as "manager's mobile device" or "user's mobile device" or similar ) to start depositing a certain amount of bills, coins, and/or other valuables. As described in more detail below, the manager runs an application or other application/software program (residing within the mobile device or within the central server 710 or other remote computing device) to facilitate creation of the warehouse. Generally, the manager identifies the banknotes and/or coins placed inside the Smart Bag 500, identifies the Smart Bag identification number, and then seals the Smart Bag for subsequent deposit within the mouth vault 610. Deposit creation details of the manager are described in the following sections.

[0118] In certain modalities in which the retailer wants to deposit something of value inside the boca de wolf safe (in addition to bills and/or coins), the manager identifies the thing of value within the application or other software program/application, identifies the Smart Bag identification number, and then seal the Smart Bag for subsequent deposit inside the vault. More details are described in the sections below.

[0119] The present invention implies new techniques for the deposit of the deposit bag, for example, the Smart Bag described in this document, inside the mouth of wolf safe. As will be described below, the bag deposit opening is unlocked in a number of ways, including after the manhole safe scans the barcode printed on the outside of the Smart Bag. The opening for depositing bags can be opened after reading the badge of the authorized employee of the retailer, among other techniques described here. Furthermore, during each deposit in the boca de lobo safe of the present invention, the boca de lobo safe, through its ability to identify and authenticate the deposited item, ascertains the ID of each Smart Bag that is currently inside the safe. This information is used to determine certain benefits, including whether a previously deposited Smart Bag was removed without authorization from the mouth of wolf vault (for example, fished through the bag deposit opening), among other benefits to be discussed.

[0120] The mouth of wolf safe is in communication with the central server 710 (the money processing unit 700), which collectively knows the identity of each Smart Bag that was deposited in the mouth of wolf safe, the contents inside each Smart Bag deposited, when each Smart Bag was deposited, who created the associated record of the deposit of each Smart Bag, who actually deposited each Smart Bag in the safe, among other information. Details on the function and operation of these features are described below.

[0121] Based on a schedule or the number of Smart Bags currently in the boca de lobo vault or another reason, a designated and duly authorized Agent (shuttle service 720) withdraws cash deposits (or other deposited items) from the boca de lobo of wolf. To initiate bag removal, the Agent uses its mobile device 730 (hereinafter also referred to as the “Agent's mobile device” or similar) to gain access to the vault. The Agent runs an application or other software program/application (residing within the Agent's mobile device or within the central server 710 or other remote device) to verify the Agent's identity, the identity of the vault to be emptied, among other things, which in turn causes the generation of the one-time authorization code, also referred to herein as a one-time authorization code, or an “OTA” code. In preferred embodiments, the OTA code has an expiration date for added security.

[0122] The OTA code is transmitted to the Agent's mobile device which, in turn, provides the OTA code to the mouth of wolf safe. In certain embodiments, the OTA code is in the form of a QR code (or other displayable code) that is displayed on the Agent's mobile device and subsequently read/scanned by the QR reader of the boca de lobo safe (as part of the item authorization capability deposited and user of the boca de lobo vault). In other embodiments, the OTA code is transmitted from the Agent's mobile device to the vault using a communication protocol, preferably a short range communication protocol. Other modalities/variations for the communication of the OTA code for the boca de wolf vault are discussed.

[0123] Upon receiving a valid, non-expired OTA code, the digital lock on the mouth of the mouth safe door opens, thus giving the Agent access to the internal storage of the mouth of the mouth safe.

[0124] Once the safe is opened, the Agent removes all the Smart Bags. If the vault is a B-Safe (which includes bill validators) or another version of the vault that includes bill validators, the Agent removes bills that may be loose or included inside an open bag that is inside the vault mouth of wolf. As will be described in more detail, the vault monitors the existence of Smart Bags that have been removed. The Agent refills the B-Safe inner bag, closes the vault door, and transfers the withdrawn contents to the cash processing unit 700 for further handling. Certain benefits and features of the invention during this process include verifying that the Agent actually removed all Smart Bags from the vault. Otherwise, the Agent may be instructed to return to the vault. Other features and benefits are described in more detail.

[0125] The cash processing unit 700 processes the Smart Bags and, where applicable, the banknotes, in ways known in the art. Furthermore, the manhole safes of the present invention allow retailers to receive a credit (e.g., to the retailer's bank account within bank 750) for cash deposits that are made into the inventive safes.

Brink's Box,. B-Safe.,. It is. Recycler Safe:. Detailed Discussion

[0126] As discussed briefly above, each embodiment of the vault mouth of the present invention includes a chassis, a door and a shelf tec.

Chassis . of .Safe. Wolf mouth

[0127] According to the present invention, the chassis in the Brink's Box, B-Safe and Recycler Safe, and other embodiments discussed in this document, include deposited item sensing technology that is used to identify each Smart Bag that has been deposited within the wolf's mouth vault. According to certain embodiments, such technology is an array of RFID antennas connected to an RFID reader which is placed within the tec shelf. The RFID antennas, also called for convenience RFID sensors or RFID pads, are placed on different internal walls of the lower part (lower compartment) of the chassis, usually close to where the Smart Bags are stored inside the chassis after being deposited inside the safe.

[0128] Figure 7 shows an example of chassis 100. As shown, a first RFID pad 110 is attached to the inner wall of the chassis 140a, a second RFID pad 110 is attached to the inner wall 140b, and a third RFID pad (not shown ) is coupled to the inner wall 140c. A set of cables 150 extending from the RFID reader within the tec shelf 300 is attached to each RFID pad within the chassis. Another set of cables 152 is shown inside the chassis 100 which connects the electronics inside the safe door 200 to the components inside the tec shelf 300. Both sets of cables extend inside the chassis 100 to the tec shelf 300 via a small opening inside from the top or near the top of the chassis.

[0129] According to the present invention, the RFID reader inside the tec shelf uses the RFID pads/antennas 110 placed inside the chassis to detect the ID of each RFID tag of the Smart Bags. With such equipment, the IDs of several hundred tags can be identified within a few seconds. Likewise, all the Smart Bags that were launched inside the vault vault of the present invention are, during the various processes described herein, immediately identified when using the vault vault, whether such use is opening the bag deposit opening, closing from opening the deposit of bags, opening the safe to remove contents, closing the safe, and/or any other moment of operation, as discussed here. For example, the storm vault can be programmed to inventory its contents at periodic intervals, such as every 5 minutes or every 15 minutes (or another periodic interval of time), to verify that deposited bags have not been removed without authorization, to identify recently deposited Smart Bags, and/or otherwise.

[0130] The number of RFID pads can be different. For example, a storm vault according to the present invention may employ two RFID pads suitably placed within the chassis, or may employ another number of RFID pads. Also, the location of the RFID pads can be different than that shown in Figure 7. For example, the RFID pad can be placed on the bottom inside surface (i.e. on the floor) of the chassis or near the top of the chassis, if desired. .

[0131] As shown in Figure 7, the chassis includes sufficient storage space (i.e., storage area 120) for a relatively large number of deposited Smart Bags. However, due to financial risk or other reasons, the vault can be programmed to accept a maximum number of deposited Smart Bags that is substantially less than the actual physical storage capacity of the chassis. For example, a storm vault installed at the retail location may be limited to a maximum of 30 deposited Smart Bags, or 20 deposited Smart Bags, or another number. In a larger retail environment, the hatch can be programmed to limit the number of Smart Bags deposited to an even larger number, such as 45 Smart Bags, 55 Smart Bags, 65 Smart Bags, 75 Smart Bags, etc. Other numbers can be used. In yet another version (or in addition to the above), the trapdoor safe can be programmed to accept a limited monetary value, regardless of the number of Smart Bags the trapdoor safe may already contain.

[0132] As shown in the example chassis in Figure 7, the chassis of the present invention in certain embodiments does not include any electronic or electrical components other than the RFID pads 110, cables 150 and 152, and connectors/interface equipment for the cables. As used here, the term “electronics” includes cables, interface to the cables, and feed-through cables/connectors (to the electronics/technology in the vault door).

[0133] According to the B-Safe embodiment of the present invention, which is illustrated in Figures 2 and 4, a pair of bill validators 430 is placed inside the upper part of the B-Safe door 400. With reference again to Figure 7, the upper part of the chassis storage space is used to contain banknotes that have been accepted by banknote validators. In one embodiment, a box is placed within the chassis to catch/contain incoming bills. In another B-Safe modality, a large sealable bag is suitably placed inside the chassis that captures the banknotes that have passed through the banknote validators and, in the modality that will be described, the Agent that empties the contents of the mouth of wolf safe, recovers the sealable bag and seals it without the need for the Agent to come into direct physical contact with the banknotes that were accepted by the banknote validators, or otherwise received by the boca de lobo vault.

Door. of . Safe. mouth . of .Lobo

[0134] Brink’s Box 10, B-Safe 20, and Recycler Safe 30 doors have different configurations, different functions, and different capacities, although some of their functions and capacities overlap in various modes/versions. Figure 8 shows the exterior of example Brink's Box port 200, and Figure 9 is a block diagram of port 200. Figure 10 shows the exterior of an example B-Safe port 400, and Figure 11 is a block diagram of port 400. Figure 13 is a block diagram of port 450 of the Recycler Safe 30, and previously referenced Figure 4A is a block diagram of the Recycler Safe 30.

[0135] Referring first to Brink's Box 10, the door 200 includes the bag deposit opening 210 and the digital lock 220 (with associated lock) (Figures 8 and 9). Preferably, bag storage opening 210 includes an "anti-catch" design that prevents or at least minimizes the risk of the bag inside the safe chassis being pulled out through opening 210.

[0136] The digital lock 220 uses latches and is designed to unlock (as controlled by the tec shelf) upon properly receiving a unique authorization code (OTA). The mechanical/functional construction of the lock mechanism employed by the digital lock 220 is well understood in the art, and no further description is required except as necessary to appreciate the present invention.

[0137] The B-Safe door 400 includes a bag deposit opening 410, a digital lock 420, and bill validators 430 (Figures 10 and 11). The bag deposit opening 410 is identical to the bag deposit opening 210 of the door 200, but the bag deposit opening 410 is replaceable within the bottom of the door 400, as shown in Figure 10. The digital lock 420 is identical to digital lock 220 of door 200.

[0138] In the B-Safe mode of the present invention, a pair of bill validators is placed near the top of the door 400. During operation, each bill validator 430 is able to receive an inserted bill, recognize its face value, verify its authenticity and, if it is authentic, makes the validated note pass inside the safe's chassis. Each bill validator is in communication with the tec shelf processors and communicates all appropriate data, which includes the face value of each bill accepted. According to the present invention, accepted bills fall directly into the cassette of the safe without the use of a spring-loaded cartridge.

[0139] A single box, with an optional containment bag (coating), placed inside the chassis below the bill validators, is used to capture bills that are received by both bill validators. Figure 12A illustrates an example box 442 placed within the B-Safe chassis 100 in a position that captures bills that are accepted by one of the bill validators. Likewise, a single box can be employed, although two bill validators are provided within B-Safe. As explained below, when the Agent empties the contents of the B-Safe of the present invention, the Agent gathers all the notes inside the box and places these notes inside an envelope or other type of container for further processing. If an optional containment bag is employed, the Agent removes the existing bag and replaces it with a new empty containment bag (liner), which is identified by B-Safe.

[0140] According to the present invention, by not using cartridges designed to contain a certain number of banknotes, the impact of banknote jamming is minimized. Furthermore, the B-Safe's banknote storage capacity is based on the size of the storage area inside the mouth of the vault chassis, not the size of the cartridge.

[0141] As the construction and operation of banknote validators are well known in the art, a more detailed description will not be provided, except when particularly necessary for an understanding of the present invention.

[0142] Figure 12B shows a variation that employs an identifiable box liner 444, which is placed inside the box 442, which captures bills that have been accepted by bill validators. During banknote retrieval, the case lining is removed from the B-Safe in its entirety (including the banknotes inside) and placed inside an appropriate envelope or transfer container for further handling. Likewise, the lining of the box allows the collection of banknotes that have been accepted by banknote validators without the need for the Agent to have physical contact with the banknotes. These characteristics are explained below during the description offered in this document of the process of emptying the B-Safe, according to the present invention.

[0143] In the Recycler Safe embodiment of the present invention, a small form factor cash recycler is placed near the top of port 450, as shown in Figures 4A and 13.

[0144] During operation, bills are received by bill depositor 480, and can be dispensed via bill dispenser 482. As would be understood in the art, the small form factor money recycler receives an inserted bill, recognizes its face value , verifies its authenticity and, if it is authentic, stores the note in a specific cassette, based on its face value. Notes can then be dispensed upon receiving a suitable request.

[0145] The bag deposit opening 460 of the Recycler Safe and the digital lock 470 are identical to the bag deposit openings and digital locks of the Brink's Box and the B-Safe.

Tec Shelf of the Boca de Lobo Safe

[0146] The tec shelf is attached to the top of the chassis, as shown in Figure 3 (showing the Brink's Box), Figure 4 (showing the B-Safe), and Figure 4A (showing the Recycler Safe). A block diagram of the tec 300 shelf is shown in Figure 14A. An example of the exterior view of the tec 300 shelf is shown in Figure 14B.

[0147] The tec shelf 300 includes several modules/components, including the system controller module and communications 310, an auxiliary controller board 312, the deposited item identification and authentication module 320, the deposited item authorization module and user 330 , LCD screen/button 340, a light strip/diffuser 360, and a power supply 370. As will be appreciated, a module can be implemented via a single component or multiple components, as appropriate. Additionally, as mentioned below, various components/functionality are optional or can be incorporated within other devices within the tec shelf.

[0148] The system controller module and communications 310 includes a main controller board, which controls the various operations of the tec shelf 300 and includes communications equipment for communicating with the central server (or other remote servers) and/or other devices external to the wolf's mouth vault. In certain embodiments, LTE/4G communication equipment is employed. In other modalities, both LTE-4G and Wi-Fi communication equipment are employed. Other forms of communications equipment/technology, including medium and short range communications equipment, may be employed/included within the system controller and communications module 310.

[0149] In variations of any of these modalities, the control and communications system 310 includes adequate equipment/capacity to perform multiple forms/protocols of wireless communication. Non-wireless (i.e., wired) communication can also be employed. Furthermore, some or all of these communication capabilities may be implemented via separate devices/components within the tec shelf, either standalone or included within modules/devices that perform other functionality.

[0150] The auxiliary controller board 312 is employed to supply power and to provide and receive data for various components of the safe mouth of wolf, including the bag deposit opening 210 and the digital lock 220 inside the door 200 (or the components inside from port 400 of the B-Safe or inside port 450 of the Recycler Safe), and other devices. Furthermore, the auxiliary controller board 312 communicates with and supplies power to the bill validators 430 within door 400 when the vault is configured as B-Safe, in accordance with the present invention. Similarly, the auxiliary controller board 312 communicates with and supplies power to the small form factor bill recycler within port 450 of the Recycler Safe.

[0151] The functions of the main controller board 310 and auxiliary controller board 312 can be modified, combined with a single component/module or implemented by other components within the tec shelf.

[0152] The deposited item identification and authentication module 320 identifies the Smart Bags deposited inside the chassis of the mouth of wolf safe. In certain embodiments, this module is an RFID reader that works in conjunction with RFID antennas 110 placed within the chassis. In other embodiments, this module employs visual recognition processing along with appropriate cameras 110 placed within the chassis to identify items deposited within the chassis. Other appropriate technologies to uniquely identify each Smart Bag deposited inside the chassis can be employed.

[0153] In the modalities in which the identification and authentication of the deposited item 320 uses an RFID reader, a set of connectors 322 allows the direct coupling, via adequate cabling, of the RFID reader to the RFID pads 110 placed inside the chassis. Similarly, in embodiments where deposited item identification and authentication 320 employs visual recognition technology/capability (e.g., using appropriate processing), cameras placed within the chassis are coupled to module 320 via connectors 322.

[0154] The deposited item and user authorization module 330 identifies users who are authorized to use the boca de wolf vault and/or items (eg Smart Bags) authorized to be released. Module 330 can be implemented using different technologies, equipment and methodologies. In certain embodiments, a 330 barcode/QR code scanner/reader and associated processor is used. In other modalities, non-visual short-range wireless communication equipment is used (for example, RFID reader, NFC reader). In yet other modalities, other forms of visual recognition technology, facial recognition, biometric analysis (e.g., fingerprint reader), etc., are employed. Various embodiments/variations are described below.

[0155] The tec shelf also includes 340 LCD screen/button, which is capable of providing instructions to users, such as a countdown timer during different modes, and is depressible by the user. In certain embodiments, the LCD screen/button 340 may be omitted.

[0156] The tec 300 shelf is accommodated within a cabinet or box 350 constructed with a material that allows the passage of RF signals to allow the enclosure of RF-based communications. For example, the 350 housing can be made from a variety of plastics, such as Polypropylene (PP), Polypropiolatone (PPL), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), or other transparent RF materials such as such as, for example, Polyurethane (PU), Polycarbonate (PC), Fiberglass and Teflon. Also, the 350 box minimally interferes with RF-based communications between the tec shelf and communication devices external to the tec shelf, including cell towers, suitably equipped mobile devices, Wi-Fi routers, and other communications equipment.

[0157] To inform users of status, mode, and other information, the tec shelf light strip/diffuser 360 is controlled by the main controller board or another tec shelf controller. In some embodiments, the light strip is a strip of LEDS that are mounted along the perimeter of the tec shelf. The strip can run along any side in different versions (including along all sides).

[0158] The LEDS within the range are controlled by the control panel during the various operations of the present invention to emit different colors during different modes of operation. For example, the light strip can be blue during idle to indicate that the system is ready to initiate a deposit instruction. The light strip can be green during an active deposit session. The light strip may be yellow during a scheduled session. The light strip can be red to indicate that something is critical. And the light strip can flash red to indicate the system is offline. Other colors may be provided during other modes. Furthermore, this color system is an example, and another set of color combinations can be employed to help users of the manhole vault of the present invention. The diffuser can be omitted in certain embodiments. Other forms of light devices besides LEDS can be employed in modalities/variations.

[0159] Power source 370 receives externally supplied power via a power cord (not shown) and in turn supplies power to various components within the tec shelf.

[0160] The tec shelf also includes, in certain versions, a GPS chip/module. In a variation, the GPS capability can be included within one of the other devices/modules on the tec shelf. As discussed in this document, with GPS capability, the manhole safe of the present invention is able to identify its own location, which is used for security, authentication and other purposes.

[0161] Communication between the various components of the tec shelf can be achieved via USB cables, via Ethernet, or other known communication devices/protocols. Communications between various components and/or other communication devices (internal or external to the vault) can be encrypted as needed. Generally, the construction and design of the tec shelf of the present invention will be consistent with generally accepted communication protocols, which may vary from country to country. The present invention is not intended to be specific to any type of communication protocol. Furthermore, since the general operation of the various electronic components in this document, the communication between the devices, and the encryption methodologies are well understood in the art, no further discussion of these characteristics, components, and methodologies is provided except where particularly necessary. for understanding the present invention.

[0162] In other modalities, the communication between the boca de lobo safe and the central server (or other remote server) can be achieved by cable connection, which may be necessary in areas of the world where cellular (or other wireless) communication not available or “irregular”. The use of cable for long distance communication is well known and therefore no further discussion is provided except where necessary for an understanding of the present invention. In addition, the communication antennas can be extended beyond the confines of the tec shelf, if desired, to improve wireless communication with the remote central server. Communication with the remote server can be via standard or non-standard wireless communication technique, and can include communicating with a nearby router via WiFi or Bluetooth, or other short or medium range communication protocol.

Tec Shelf Configuration and Boca de Lobo Vault Type Detection

[0163] According to the present invention, the tec shelf has the ability to sense/identify the type of door installed in the chassis of the boca de lobo safe, communicate the information to the central server, and be self-configured to control all equipment/functionalities from the Mouth of Wolf vault. Such self-configuration is carried out with the installation of the boca de lobo safe at the retailer's location, with the installation of the new tec shelf inside the boca de lobo safe already installed at the retailer's location, with the on-site conversion of the boca de lobo safe of a type to another type, and at other desired times.

[0164] After the installation of a new storm vault at the retailer's location, the tec shelf performs an initialization operation, which includes the detection of all equipment included inside the vault door. In particular, the tec shelf detects the presence or absence of individual types of devices that may be included within the attached door of the mouth of wolf vault, including a bag deposit opening (deposit door mechanism), a closing mechanism/ digital lock, bill validators, a bill recycler with a small form factor, and other equipment that can be included inside the door of various types/modalities of mouth of wolf safes of the present invention.

[0165] Each new tec shelf includes a unique identifier, which can be provided on the tec shelf as a bar code or other computer readable code (eg QR code). The manhole safe also includes a unique identifier, which can be initially associated with the chassis. For example, a bar code (or other computer readable code) is provided on the outside or inside of the chassis. The vault door may also include its own unique identifier (eg displayed on the inside of the door).

[0166] Figure 15 shows an example of a flowchart 800 for configuring the tec shelf, according to the present invention. Initially, and after a new (or refurbished) chassis, a new (or refurbished) door, and a new (or refurbished) tec shelf are individually mailed or otherwise provided to the installation location located at the retailer (or common area ), an authorized technician assembles the manhole safe (Step 810).

[0167] During assembly, the chassis is placed in its permanent position and bolted to the floor, or otherwise fixed in its permanent location, so that it can hardly be moved with force. Any technique suitable for permanently installing the chassis may be employed. The technician then installs the door as intended according to the construction/project drawing, its hinge and connection to the frame. The present invention provides example modalities for installing the door as well as removing the door. As particularly indicated, the installation of the door of the present invention (of the various described embodiments) on the chassis can be achieved without special tools, and in the described embodiments, without any tools. More details are provided in the description below.

[0168] After installing the door on the chassis, the tec shelf is installed. Any suitable way of installation can be provided, according to the particular design of the tec rack, the chassis, and self-assembling technical equipment, if any. The present invention provides exemplary embodiments showing tec shelf installation (and removal), as discussed in detail below.

[0169] The technician proceeds and attaches all the cables. In particular, the cables that connect to the equipment inside the door pass through the inner chamber of the chassis and through a small opening at or near the top of the chassis for connection to the tec shelf. The cables of the RFID antennas from the chassis (or from the equipment inside the chassis pertaining to the deposited item detection functionality of the shelf) are also connected to the tec shelf. Finally, a power source is provided to the tec shelf (for example, through a power cord that plugs into a power receptacle).

[0170] When mounting the mouth of wolf safe, the safe is energized (for example, through a button or depression on/off [on/off] of the screen/LCD button of the tec shelf or other appropriate way). On power up, the tec shelf “boots up” and begins an initialization process (Figure 15: Step 820).

[0171] During initialization, the tec shelf obtains the unique identifier of the mouth of wolf vault (Step 830). This can be achieved in several ways. In one embodiment, the technician takes an image of the unique identifier of the boca de lobo safe using the technician's mobile device, displays the image, which is then read by the tec shelf's Barcode/QR Code scanner/reader. The unique identifier on the lockbox can be a bar code, QR code, or other appropriate computer identifiable sign. In another embodiment, the chassis of the mouth of wolf safe is fitted with a permanently installed RFID tag with an ID that uniquely identifies the mouth of wolf safe. This ID is checked using the same RFID reader on the tec shelf (using the antennas inside the chassis) that checks the IDs of the RFID tags of each of the Smart Bags inside the safe's chassis.

[0172] In another modality, the tec shelf identifies its own current location, using its own GPS capability, communicates its location to the central server which, in turn, verifies the unique identifier of the boca de lobo safe based on the known location of the retailer, or, if applicable, the known location of the lockbox. In another modality, the technician manually enters the unique identifier of the boca de lobo safe in an appropriate application on his mobile device, which, in turn, wirelessly communicates the identifier to the tec shelf using Bluetooth, or another communication protocol. short range communication. Other ways to identify the unique identifier of the mouth of wolf safe can be used.

[0173] The tec shelf communicates the vault identifier to the central server (if not already known). The lockbox identifier is compared to the particular tec shelf in use (Step 840). If the tec shelf is replaced later, this process is repeated to associate the new tec shelf with the vault being serviced.

[0174] The tec shelf proceeds to identify each device included inside the door, which is attached to the manhole safe (Step 850). Examples of devices include a bag drop opening, a digital lock/lock mechanism, bill validators, a small form factor bill recycler, and other equipment including equipment employed within future enhancements. The tec shelf communicates with discovered devices to establish their configuration using a combination of locally hosted information and connection to the central server. The central server, in response, appropriately programs the tec shelf to operate as a Brink's Box, B-Safe, Recycler Safe, or other type of device, or any appropriate variation, depending on the types of devices within the port that have been identified by the shelf. tec (Step 860). That is, the tec shelf is programmed/configured to align with the total functionality of the door.

[0175] Once initialized and self-programmed, the mouth of wolf safe is ready for use by the retailer.

[0176] The process described with reference to Figure 15 is repeated when installing a replacement tec shelf, installing a new door, or at another appropriate time. Also, the automatic adjustment of the present invention by the tec shelf to the capabilities of the tec shelf and subsequent self-programming of the tec shelf allows relatively quick installation of a new tec shelf, a replacement tec shelf, and a new door (possibly , with additional capabilities).

[0177] In addition to such self-provisioning, in certain modalities, the tec shelf includes active location functionality (for example, GPS), which allows checking and/or validating the location of the boca de lobo safe. With such validation, the location of the storm vault is verified and other enhanced security measures are possible, including allowing for self-programming or other processes that occur only when verifying that the vault is located in an authorized location.

[0178] In addition, with hardware and logical interfaces from the pre-defined tec shelf, the functionality of the boca de lobo safe can be modified and updated to newer technologies, if the functionality and communications of the subtended equipment, for example, doors, adhere to these settings. The controller within the tec shelf is then able to auto-detect and provision accordingly.

[0179] Technologies and functionalities contained within the tec shelf itself can also be improved/updated, as long as the interface standards, both below for the port/chassis, and above for the central server, are maintained. In any of these cases, the new components, tec shelf or port are identified and configured at boot up/power on install/upgrade.

[0180] Likewise, with the modular design of the storm vaults of the present invention, problems do not need to be resolved on site. Instead, any problems with the tec shelf are preferably dealt with by replacing it with another tec shelf. This is achieved by physically detaching the faulty tec shelf, detaching and pulling it forward to remove the rails, installing the new tec shelf, and performing initialization, autotuning, and autoprogramming in the manner described in this document. Examples of modalities and techniques for replacing the tec shelf with a new shelf are described below.

[0181] From there, the defective tec shelf is sent to a service station to analyze the main cause of the problems and apply an appropriate solution. The repaired tec rack is then placed back in storage. Due to its modular design, the repaired/restored tec shelf can be reused for later exchange actions for repairs.

[0182] The automatic adjustment and self-programming of the tec shelf after replacing the mouth of the wolf safe door are treated in a similar way. This is the case whether the door is replaced by a door of the same type (i.e., it has the same functionality) or of a different type (i.e., to convert the vault into another one of a different type). The old door, regardless of whether it is faulty or not, is sent to the service station and evaluated for full operability. Defective ports are fixed. The repaired ports are then placed back in inventory for future use.

[0183] The various steps performed by the tec shelf of the present invention during installation, automatic tuning and self-programming can be performed, if appropriate, in a different order than that described above. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, a step or multiple steps may be omitted and/or be unnecessary. For example, the identity of the unique identifier of the boca de lobo safe does not need to be obtained, if it is already known. This may be the case when replacing a faulty tec shelf. Automatic detection (i.e., automatic tuning) of port capabilities can also be omitted if it is already known. However, automatic detection, along with error evaluation substeps, can be employed periodically or at certain times (eg at a tec shelf change) to verify the continued functionality of all port equipment.

[0184] With regard to the specifications of automatic detection and self-programming, as discussed here, such functionality (in the broad sense) is well known and understood in the art, and therefore further discussion of automatic detection and self-programming is not provided, except where necessary to an understanding of the present invention.

Tec Shelf Replacement

[0185] According to the present invention, the tec shelf is removed from the vault for repair or replacement without the need to access the interior of the chassis. A technician or other service personnel is able to service the tec shelf without the risk of theft of the vault's contents. Replacement is also achieved in a relatively short period of time, therefore causing, at best, minimal disruption to the retailer's operations. In addition, the technician does not need diagnostic tools to repair components on site. The tec shelf can also be replaced with a tec shelf that includes upgraded electronics, therefore providing retailers with additional capabilities as they are developed.

[0186] A discussion of how the tec shelf is removed from the storm vault of the present invention is described with reference to a particular embodiment of the tec shelf shown in Figures 16A to 16E.

[0187] Figure 16A shows the rear of an example tec shelf 300 (according to one embodiment) when connected to the top of the chassis 100. In this example embodiment, the chassis 100 includes a support 170 that extends above its rear, and a pair of screws are threaded through the bracket into appropriate slots on the back of the shelf to secure the tec shelf to the chassis. However, other ways of connecting the tec shelf to the mouth of wolf safe can be used.

[0188] Data and power will be supplied from the Tec Shelf to the chassis through connector 176 as shown in Figure 16B and 16E. Power for the manhole safe is supplied via power connector 376. Air vents 378 are also shown on the rear of the tec shelf 300, although the air vents may be placed along the top, sides and/or front of the tech shelf

[0189] To remove the tec shelf, the screws 372 are removed, and the tec shelf is gently slid forward along a pair of mounting rails 172 that are placed between the tec shelf and the chassis, as shown in Figure 16B . The cabinet portion 174 of each mounting rail 172 is attached to the chassis, and the corresponding mounting rails are attached to the bottom of the tec shelf. Any suitably strong mounting rail (also commonly known as a drawer slide) can be used. Additionally, cable connectors 176 that are exposed as shown in Figure 16B are disconnected to facilitate complete removal of the tec shelf.

[0190] After the cables are disconnected, the tec shelf 300 is slid further forward along the mounting rails 172, as shown in Figure 16C. As the tec 300 shelf continues to slide, the tec shelf is completely removed from the mounting rails, as shown in Figure 16D. Figure 16E shows the top of chassis 100, looking from the front of the storm vault, with the tec shelf completely removed. Figure 16E shows one of the connectors 176A of the cable connectors 176, with the tec shelf side connector removed.

[0191] Figures 17A-17G show a connection technique/structure between the tec shelf and the chassis, according to another embodiment of the present invention. In the embodiment shown in these figures, instead of employing screws, a locking plate extending from the chassis is employed to engage and lock the tec shelf in place.

[0192] Figures 17A and 17B are front and rear views, respectively, of the top of the chassis 100. As shown, a movable locking plate 180 extends upwards from the upper rear end of the chassis 100 and serves as a locking mechanism that holds the shelf tec. A cabling harness 182 extending through an opening in the top of the chassis 100 secures the cables extending between the tec shelf and the chassis and door. Figures 17A and 17B further show a pair of mounting rails 184, which serve the same function as the mounting rails in the embodiment described above with reference to Figures 16A-16E.

[0193] Figures 17C and 17D are the rear and bottom views, respectively, of the tec shelf 380, in accordance with this particular embodiment of the present invention (Figure 17C shows the tec shelf upside down). Figure 17E shows the underside of the shelf 380, and particularly shows the recessed area 382 that accommodates the cabling harness 182 when the tec shelf is installed in the chassis. Figures 17C and 17D also show the two tec shelf mounting rails 384 that slide along the chassis mounting rails 184 during installation and removal (Figure 17E shows a portion of one of the mounting rails).

[0194] During installation, the cables extending through the cabling harness are properly connected and the tec shelf is slid, through the mounting rails, into the chassis in the same manner as in the previously discussed embodiment. Figures 17F and 17G are the rear and top views, respectively, showing the tec shelf 380 partially on the chassis 100. When the tec shelf 380 is fully moved over the chassis 100, the locking plate 180 latches onto the tec shelf, locking and fixing the tec shelf in place. Latch may be spring-loaded or designed to automatically lock (i.e., lock) onto the tec shelf. In another version, the latch is designed to be manually moved to secure the tec shelf in place. Other types of mechanical latches can be used to selectively secure the tec shelf.

[0195] To remove the tec shelf, the technician moves the locking plate 180 to its unlocked position to release the shelf, slides the shelf forward along the mounting rails. Once the tec shelf is fully removed from the chassis, the cables are disconnected.

[0196] When removing the tec shelf, the technician proceeds by installing a new (or renovated) tec shelf. To install, the steps described above (depending on which modality is used) are performed in reverse.

[0197] After the new tec shelf is physically installed, power is supplied to the mouth of wolf safe and the new tec shelf is started and self-programmed as described above.

[0198] According to the present invention, the technician does not need to open the vault or have access to the Smart Bags deposited or other content inside the chassis of the vault. The technician also does not diagnose the tec shelf on site, rather the removed shelf can be diagnosed and if necessary repaired at a separate location. Tec racks are removed and installed without any special equipment or knowledge of operating the tec rack or its components.

[0199] Additionally, the tec shelf is a modular component, that is, the same tec shelf can be used for any type of vault vault described in this document. Likewise, to replace a tec shelf, a new modular shelf can be shipped via a normal commercial shipping carrier, such as FedEx or UPS, or delivered to the retailer's location by other means. The tec rack employs a lightweight cabinet and therefore its total weight, including the weight of its components, falls well below the limits (eg 150 lbs) using normal commercial shipping lines. Likewise, when it is determined that the tec shelf of the boca de lobo safe needs repair, replacement or other service (including updating), a new tec shelf is simply shipped to the retailer (or otherwise delivered), and a technician visits the retailer and proceeds to replace the existing tec shelf with the new shelf in the manner described above.

[0200] It is appreciated that the particular shape and size of the tec shelf may differ from those shown in the figures. Also, the way in which the tec shelf is attached to the chassis may be different than described in this document. For example, in one variation, the tec shelf is attached to the chassis via appropriate secure mechanisms located at the front of the storm vault. In certain situations, the rear of the tec shelf of the tec shelf may not be easily accessible, such as when the tec shelf is installed below or inside a cabinet that restricts access to the rear of the tec shelf. Equally, the tec shelf of such a variation is easily and quickly replaced. In particular, in the embodiment shown in Figures 17A to 17G, the locking plate that secures the shelf tec to the chassis can be moved sideways, in order to unlock the shelf tec, through the use of a suitable thin, elongated rod or other elongated tool if access to the back of the storm vault is very limited.

[0201] In yet another embodiment, instead of using a fully mechanical lock or lock to fix the tec shelf to the chassis, an internal lock with digital activation can be used, which is controlled through the use of short range communication (preferably encrypted) between the technician's mobile device and the tec shelf (via an appropriate app on the technician's mobile device). Since the construction and operation of digital locks and interlocks, as well as the software necessary to control them, are well known, further description is not provided, except where necessary for an understanding of the present invention.

On-Site Conversion of a Boca de Lobo Vault Type to Another Type

[0202] According to the present invention, a type of vault vault of the present invention can be converted quickly onsite and without having to transfer the vault vault from its installation site to another type of vault vault of the present invention having a different capability or capabilities.

[0203] For example, a Brink's Box can be quickly converted into a B-Safe. As another example, a Brink's Box, which is strictly a lockbox (i.e., does not accept individual bills), can be converted into a validator lockbox, in accordance with the present invention. That is, a safe that does not include a bag opening (for example, a B-Safe without a bag opening). As yet another example, a B-Safe can be converted to a Recycler Safe. As yet another example, a Recycler Safe can be converted into a Brink's Box. Other conversions are possible.

[0204] As described in this document, the vault safes of the present invention are modular in design and include the three main components of the chassis, door and shelf tec. The chassis and tec shelf of the Brink's Box, B-Safe and Recycler Safe (and other variants/variations described here) are identical (in terms of hardware) and therefore only the door needs replacement to convert the downdraft safe . According to the present invention, the vault door is removed without the need to transfer the vault vault from its installation location. The tec shelf in the mouth of the vault then resets, performs auto-detection, and then automatically reprograms itself based on the newly installed door type as discussed earlier.

[0205] Likewise, in the case of converting the Brink's Box installed and in use at a retailer location to a B-Safe, an authorized technician removes port 200 from the Brink's Box chassis, replaces it with a port 400 (used within of B-Safe) and install port 400 in the chassis. The tec shelf is then reset as discussed here, which fully converts the manhole vault into a B-Safe, with all the functionality, capabilities and benefits of B-Safe. Conversion of other types of trapdoor safes is carried out in a similar way.

[0206] Figures 18A and 18B show structures for fixing the door to the chassis, according to a particular embodiment of the present invention. In such an embodiment, Figure 18A shows a pair of locking pins 160 extending from the chassis, which are used to securely secure the door (e.g., Brink's Box door 200). The chassis includes three pairs of locking pins 160, one pair near the top of the door opening, one pair near the bottom of the opening, and one pair in the center of the opening.

[0207] Figure 18B shows a portion of the end 230 of the door 200. Three pairs of round hinge nodes 240 (only two pairs are shown in Figure 18B) extend from the end 230 of the door. Each pair of hinge nodes are placed on the door in locations that correspond to where the respective pair of locking pins are placed on the chassis.

[0208] According to this embodiment of the present invention, each of the locking pins 160 on the chassis are depressible so that they can be moved between the locked position and the unlocked position. In the locked position, the mating portion of the pin extends through the mating hinge node on the door. To unlock the pin, the pin is depressed and slid laterally to remove the corresponding pin portion from the hinge node. Figure 18A shows the two pins 160 in their corresponding unlocked position (closer to each other). After all six locking pins are operated and placed in their respective unlocked position, the door is completely removed from the chassis.

[0209] In a variation, a different number of locking pins and corresponding hinge nodes (for example, 10) are employed. In another variation, the way in which the locking pins are unlocked is different.

[0210] Likewise, the vault door is removed, according to the present invention, without the use of tools and is usually carried out in just a few minutes of work. Before removing the current door from the chassis, cables 152 (extending through the chassis between the tec shelf and the door) are disconnected. Any cable disconnecting technique or connector/disconnect device can be employed to allow cables to be disconnected (and subsequently connected).

[0211] From then on, and according to the present invention, port 400 (designed for B-Safe), for example, is installed in the chassis. The above steps to remove port 200 are reversed. In particular, port 400 is placed in the chassis so that the chassis lock pins and port 400 hinge nodes are aligned. Then, one at a time, each locking pin 160 is depressed and then, during depression, slid into its respective locked position so that a corresponding portion of the pin is fed through a corresponding hinge node into the newly installed door. Once in the locked position, the pin is released, therefore causing the locking pin to be locked in that position. When all locking pins are in their respective locked positions and securely holding the respective hinge node on the door, the new 400 door is fully secured in the chassis.

[0212] The cables 152 extending from inside the chassis are then connected to the appropriate cable connector, extending from the newly installed port 400. The tec shelf 300 is then restarted, performs automatic detection of the equipment inside of the newly installed port, communicates with the central server, and is automatically reprogrammed, as described in this document.

[0213] Since the newly installed port 400 is identical to the removed port 200, except that port 400 includes bill validators, port 400 is locked in chassis 100 in the same way that port 200 was locked in chassis 100. Also, the entire process of converting the previously installed Brink's Box into the B-Safe, is performed without the need for special door removal equipment, achieved in a relatively short period of time (e.g. under 15 or 30 minutes, at times faster), and performed without removing the vault from its current location.

[0214] The above discussion on converting the Brink's Box to a B-Safe is an example and illustration of the conversion capabilities of the present invention. Likewise, any type of storm vault of the present invention can be converted to another type of storm vault by physically exchanging the original door for another door with a different set of capabilities, and then resetting the tec shelf as described in this document. .

[0215] Figures 18C and 18D show another set of structures/techniques for fixing the door to the chassis, according to an additional embodiment of the present invention. Figure 18C shows the structure of each chassis hinge pin 190 to which the door is attached (only one pin is shown in the figure). In one version, two such pins are provided, one at the bottom of the chassis door opening and one near the top of the chassis door opening. Figure 18D shows the hinge sleeve structure 250 extending from the door to be mounted to the chassis.

[0216] The hinge sleeve 250 includes upper and lower hinge nodes 252 and 254, which are aligned on the door to receive the respective chassis pins. Door removal involves lifting the door when in the open position until the gaskets are completely over the pins. A new door is then easily installed by properly aligning the door gaskets above the pins and slowly lowering the door into place. As in the other embodiment described, the cables are attached to the newly installed port and the tec shelf is reset and self-programmed to control the additional capabilities now provided in the newly installed port.

[0217] In another version, the chassis includes three or more pins, and the door hinge sleeve structure includes a corresponding number of nodes. With additional pins and gaskets extending along the height of the chassis and door, additional strength is provided and relatively tall doors can be accommodated.

[0218] Downdraft safes are generally bolted internally into a concrete floor or other supporting structure, and such downdraft safes typically need to be unscrewed or unattached from their installation location in order to be handled, upgraded or replaced. The present invention avoids the need to unscrew, unpin, or move the storm vault to convert, for example, a previously installed Brink's Box to a B-Safe that includes banknote validation capability. Advantageously, the retailer who has been using the Brink's Box of the present invention is able to order and expect the Brink's Box to be changed to a B-Safe without any significant or substantial disruption to the retailer's operations. Also, other types of previously installed storm vaults are easily converted on site to storm vaults that include additional modified capacity.

[0219] The structure and techniques described here for door removal and installation also advantageously allow for the quick replacement of a defective door (or a door with a defective deposit opening or other defective component) without the need to unscrew or move the safe Wolf mouth. In such an example, a new (or refurbished) door with the same capabilities can be quickly installed in the manner described here to replace the faulty door.

[0220] The removed port is returned to an appropriate service center for analysis and, if necessary, repair. In any event, the operation of the retailer (or retailers) using the manhole safe of the present invention will not be significantly impacted by upgrading or replacing the safe door. As previously described, the same is true in case the tec shelf of the boca de lobo safe needs repair or replacement.

[0221] As discussed, the replacement of the door is performed, according to the present invention, without special tools or any tools. Unlike manhole safes used in industry that include doors that are permanently attached to the safe chassis, the present invention employs a removable door using specially designed hinges that allow for tool-less disconnection. Furthermore, the door hinges are internally placed and inaccessible except by authorized personnel who are able to open the door in accordance with the techniques/processes described in this document.

Warehouse Creation Process

[0222] According to the present invention, warehouse creation is performed using a warehouse creation software application (also called retail warehouse application) of the present invention. The deposit creation software application described herein (also called, for convenience, “deposit creation application” or “retail deposit application”) is developed by, or on behalf of, the Money Processing Unit. The cash processing unit may be the process facilitator described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018/0293649, which is incorporated herein by reference, or another suitable entity that is facilitating or assisting in facilitating the cash processing facility. present invention as described herein.

[0223] According to the present invention, and with reference to the flowchart 1000 shown in Figure 19, the retailer's manager (or other designated and authorized personnel of the retailer) opens the retail warehouse application on his mobile device to start the process of deposit creation (Step 1010). Once the application is opened, the mobile device is in communication with the central server 710.

[0224] The retail deposit application employs known security measures to ensure mobile device authenticity and user identity verification (Step 1020). For example, fingerprint or facial (or other biometric) recognition technology may be employed to allow a manager to verify his identity while using the deposit creation application, in addition to, or in lieu of, passwords or other security techniques. security. As adequate security measures to verify mobile device and user identity are well known in the art, further discussion is not provided in this document, except as necessary for understanding the invention.

[0225] In addition to the known security measures, additional security according to the present invention may involve, in certain embodiments, the use of the deposit creation application only when the retailer's mobile device is located in an authorized location, such as only within the retailer's premises or only within designated areas within the retailer's premises (for example, within a designated retailer back office). This can be accomplished using the mobile device's GPS capability. Likewise, the warehouse creation application is designed to complete, or to provide only limited functionality, when the retailer's mobile device is outside the designated, authorized location(s) of use.

[0226] Some retailers (or other involved entities) may wish to have additional security measures in place. In accordance with the present invention, the deposit creation application requires (or selected functionality may require) two-phase authentication. In certain embodiments, a second designated person performs the second check that is required. For example, an SMS message in the form of a single code is sent to the second designated person, who must then communicate the code to the manager who wants to create the warehouse record. Other known techniques pertinent to two-phase authentication can be employed. Security techniques pertaining to multi-phase authentication can be employed if desired.

[0227] While using the retail deposit application, the manager identifies the total deposit amount (Step 1030). That is, the manager enters this information into a deposit creation form on the mobile device. In one variation, the manager identifies the deposit details, which include the amount of each face value of money to be deposited (eg, the amount of $100 bills, $50 bills, etc.). The value of the coins to be deposited, if any, is identified. In certain embodiments, if other things of value are to be deposited, then identity and value (or perceived value) is identified. The retail deposit app auto calculates the total deposit amount based on the provided information.

[0228] The retail warehouse application can auto-populate certain information within the warehouse record being created, including the name of the depositor (eg, the manager), the retailer's identity, the retailer's address, etc. (Step 1040). The manager can include the name of the employee initially responsible for the money to be deposited, for example, the specific teller who recently finished his shift. Other useful or desired information may also be included (Step 1050).

[0229] The current location of the manager's mobile device, using the mobile device's GPS, can be incorporated into the deposit record (Step 1060). The current location can be used to attest to the retailer's specific location, often useful when the retailer includes multiple locations and the manager is responsible for conducting warehouses at different locations. The manager can be instructed by the retail deposit application to deposit into a specific vault (Step 1070). For security purposes, the manager may be instructed to make the deposit at the nearest vault. If the retailer does not have a lockbox on their premises, the retail warehouse application can instruct the manager as to the location of the closest lockbox (for example, in a lockbox located within a common area) and, under certain circumstances, it provides walking and/or driving instructions on how to get to the nearest mouth of the storm vault. If the location of the nearest vault is closed or otherwise inaccessible, then another vault is identified (for example, the nearest vault).

[0230] The retail warehouse application then instructs the manager to obtain a new Smart Bag. The unique ID of the new Smart Bag (also called the Smart Bag ID) is ascertained by the manager's mobile device (Step 1080). In one embodiment, the manager uses the mobile device's camera to scan the barcode that is printed on the exterior of the Smart Bag. In a variation, another indicia provided on the exterior of the Smart Bag is photographed by the mobile device which finds the Smart Bag's unique ID.

[0231] In another variation, the retailer's mobile device includes NFC (proximity field communication) capability, and/or iBeacon, or other appropriate RFID communication technology, and the mobile device obtains the ID of the RFID tag (or other active or passive electronic device) built into the Smart Bag to verify the Smart Bag ID. Other information in the Smart Bag can be used to access your ID. If the Smart Bag includes the ability to audibly emit its ID, then the manager's mobile device can ascertain the Smart Bag's ID through use of the mobile device's microphone. In yet another variation, multiple methods of identifying the Smart Bag ID can be employed. Preferably, the RFID Tag ID and the Smart Bag ID are the same to remove the need to convert the accessed ID into an ID to be included within the warehouse record.

[0232] The authenticity of the Smart Bag is verified by the central server based on the verified ID of the Smart Bag (Step 1090). If the Smart Bag is authentic, the manager is instructed to place the deposit money (or other valuables) inside the Smart Bag and then seal the Smart Bag (Step 1100). In addition to authenticity, the central server may reject the Smart Bag for other reasons. For example, the Smart Bag may have been used multiple times beyond its useful life. The Smart Bag may inadvertently have been stamped with an ID that is already being used by another Smart Bag. Other reasons for Smart Bag non-authorization are possible.

[0233] The Smart Bag may include any suitable sealing technique, such as a cover that includes an adhesive strip. Preferably, the Smart Bag is tamper-proof. If the Smart Bag is not authentic or is rejected for some other reason, the manager is instructed to destroy the Smart Bag and obtain another Smart Bag. If many Smart Bags are found to be inauthentic, the central server flags the situation for further analysis as needed.

[0234] The order of steps during the deposit creation process may be different from that shown in this document. For example, the retail deposit application might instruct the manager to put cash into the Smart Bag before certain information is entered, or before the location of the safe deposit box is identified to make the deposit, or other steps. Also, all steps described here need not be performed and/or additional steps, as well as sub-steps, can be included within the process.

[0235] The manager is asked to verify the accuracy of all (or select) the information entered (Step 1110). Upon verifying the correctness of the entered information, the retail warehouse application (in conjunction with the central server) associates/saves the warehouse record with the Smart Bag ID (Step 1120). The warehouse record includes the warehouse information provided by the manager, along with the identity of the retailer, the manager, the retailer's location (and the specific store, if applicable), date, time, and other appropriate information, including other reference, as discussed in US Patent Application Publication No. 2018/0293649.

[0236] It is noted that, reference to certain steps performed by the retail warehouse application can be made by a remote server (for example, the central server), with which the manager's mobile device is communicating, or in other industry-accepted ways. For convenience, this discussion talks about the retail warehouse application performing certain tasks, but it is appreciated that such tasks may be implemented (or controlled) by other systems/processors as appropriate.

[0237] The manager then goes to the manhole safe of the present invention, which is placed at the retailer's location or another location (Step 1130). In the draft vault, the manager seeks physical access to the draft vault in various ways, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention (Step 1140). That is, the manager presents to the boca de wolf safe some suitable identification, which is accessed by the deposited item and user authorization module of the boca de wolf safe. This module, which is on the tec shelf of the boca de lobo safe, checks whether the item to be deposited is authorized to be deposited, whether the manager is authorized to access the vault, or both, depending on the specific modality of the boca de lobo safe ( Step 1150).

[0238] According to one embodiment, the deposited item and user authorization module includes a barcode scanner/reader/QR Code (identified as element 330 in Figure 14B). To access the boca de lobo safe, the manager places the Smart Bag's barcode in front of the barcode/QR code reader/scanner (sometimes also called a barcode/QR code reader. The code reader barcode/QR code scans the Smart Bag barcode to identify the Smart Bag ID, which is transmitted to the central server for verification of access authorization.

[0239] During verification, the central server checks if there is a record of the deposit referring to the Smart Bag ID. The central server makes other checks, including that the Smart Bag that is associated with the transmitted ID has not yet been deposited in some vault, that is, if the Smart Bag status is non-deposited (or other appropriate status). The storm vault being accessed must be authorized for use by the retailer associated with the Smart Bag. The deposit record must not be obsolete. That is, Smart Bags are expected to be deposited into the designated vault within a specified period of time after creating the deposit record. The specified period of time may be designated by the retailer or other entity, and may be different for different retailers, different vaults, different vaults from the same retailer, etc. Other assessments/checks can also be done.

[0240] If the central server determines that access to the vault mouth is authorized, such authorization is communicated to the mouth vault, and the deposit opening of bags in the mouth vault is controlled to unlock (Step 1160). At this time, the light strip on the tec shelf turns green to inform the manager that access is authorized and the bag deposit opening of the mouth of wolf safe has been unlocked. Other ways of informing the manager that access is authorized can be provided. For example, appropriate notification can be provided on the manager's mobile device (eg via the retail warehouse app, or via SMS message, etc.). Another visible indicator on the storm vault can be provided, as well as an audible indicator.

[0241] According to another modality, the deposited item and user authorization module verifies that access to the boca de lobo safe is authorized by reading the RFID tag of the Smart Bag to be deposited. In this embodiment, the manager can place the Smart Bag near, or in a designated area, such as near the face of the tec shelf or other suitable location. The tec shelf may include a separate RFID reader dedicated to this purpose along with an associated RFID antenna inside the tec shelf (or outside the tec shelf, but not placed inside the chassis). In one variation, the RFID reader that reads the Smart Bags' RFID tags inside the chassis can be employed, along with a separate RFID antenna placed on the exterior of the chassis. The read RFID tag is then transmitted to the central server, which performs verification as described above.

[0242] According to another embodiment, another optical verification technique is employed, which finds a unique visual characteristic of the Smart Bag. In other modalities, another electronic means can be used. Additionally, any of the techniques mentioned here for identification of the Smart Bag ID by the manager's mobile device (as discussed earlier) can be employed by the Mouth Safe.

[0243] Instead of establishing access to the boca de lobo safe by identifying the Smart Bag to be deposited, the safe, in certain modalities, provides access by verifying that the manager (or other employee) is authorized to access the boca de lobo safe Wolf. Various modes are as follows.

[0244] In one mode, the manager places his badge in front of the bar code/QR code of the tec shelf reader. The reader scans the barcode (or QR code or other sign) printed on the manager badge that uniquely identifies the manager. The scanned data is transmitted to the central server, which verifies that the individual associated with the scanned data is authorized to access that specific vault. The central server then communicates that the authorization is given to the vault, which, in turn, unlocks the bag dump opening.

[0245] In certain circumstances, access to selected authorized persons of the retailer may be restricted. Certain people may have time restrictions. For example, selected employees may be restricted from accessing the vault only within a specified period of time immediately after that person's shift ends. Restrictions may be based on other factors, which may be determined by authorized retailer management or other personnel.

[0246] In another embodiment, the manager badge (or other item issued by the retailer) includes an RFID tag with an ID that uniquely identifies the manager (for example, an NFC badge). In this modality, a suitable RFID reader (or other suitable reader) inside the mouth of wolf safe reads the ID of the RFID tag inside the manager's badge. As in the modality above, this ID is transmitted to the central server for verification.

[0247] In other arrangements, the manager's badge (or anything else that the manager carries) includes other printed or displayed indicia or other technology (passive or active) on the badge, which are detected in any way that the Smart Bag is identified in unique way (by mobile device or safe box), as discussed in this document.

[0248] As used in this document, the term badge refers to any item issued by the retailer (or Agent or other authorized entity) that includes data that uniquely identifies the wearer of the item. The data may be in the form of printed information (bar code, QR code or other printed indicia including the person's name). The data can be digital, included within an active device, or passive within the item being carried by the person. Data can be in audible sound format. Data can be a combination of the above.

[0249] In another embodiment, the deposited item and user authorization module of the boca de lobo safe includes facial recognition technology and processing capacity to identify the manager. In this modality, the module includes or is in communication with an appropriate camera that visualizes the manager's face when he is close to the mouth of wolf safe. In such a situation, authorized personnel are required to establish a data record (stored on the central server or other designated server) which includes an image of their face, head, etc., for this purpose. As facial recognition systems are well known, further description is not provided except where particularly necessary for an understanding of the present invention.

[0250] In still other modalities, the mouth of wolf safe uses other biometric information from the manager to identify the manager who wants to access the mouth of wolf safe. Biometric identification can include fingerprint recognition, eye recognition (iris and/or retina), hand geometry recognition, voice recognition, signature recognition, and other appropriate things that allow systems to uniquely identify people. . Also, in such embodiments, the tec shelf includes appropriate equipment and software, which may be included within the tec shelf or in communication with the tec shelf (e.g., a Box of some kind attached to the tec shelf or placed reasonably near the mouth of wolf vault). As the technology, equipment and operation of identity verification using biometric information are well known, further description is not provided except where particularly necessary for an understanding of the present invention.

[0251] According to further embodiments of the present invention, the retail deposit application on the manager's mobile device is used by the manager to request access to the designated vault.

[0252] In this modality, a request by the manager (via application) is communicated to the central server, which, in turn, assesses whether access should be authorized. The central server performs verification, including the verifications and evaluations mentioned in other embodiments described in this document. In addition, the central server verifies that the manager's mobile device is close (eg, within several meters) of the designated or authorized vault using the mobile device's GPS functionality. The acceptable distance from the manager can be customized for each retailer (as well as each retailer's vault) and can be established based on a number of appropriate factors (e.g. size of back office, whether the vault is in public place, number of employees authorized to be in the back office, etc.).

[0253] In another mode, during the manager's request for access, the manager's mobile device establishes communication directly with the boca de lobo safe using any appropriate short-range protocol (for example, Bluetooth, NFC, etc.). The location of the manager's mobile device can also be provided as an added security that the mobile device is very close to the vault to be accessed. Depending on the specific modality of the mouth of wolf safe, access to the mouth of wolf safe can be initiated without communicating with the central server or it may request communication and authorization from the central server.

[0254] In other embodiments of the present invention, multiple forms of identification and verification are required to gain access to the vault. That is, the vault bag deposit opening does not unlock until two (or more) of the above-discussed forms of access are performed. For example, in one modality, the manager who wants to deposit a Smart Bag in a lockbox must first have his badge scanned by the lockbox (to identify the manager) and then have the barcode of the Smart Bag to be deposited scanned (to identify the specific Smart Bag to be deposited). The verified IDs of the manager and the Smart Bag are transmitted to the central server for verification.

[0255] As another example, before access is authorized, a request must be made by the retail deposit application on the manager's mobile device and an identification of the Smart Bag to be deposited (via any method mentioned in this document).

[0256] As another example, access is provided only after the manager is identified through facial recognition (for example, when standing immediately in front of the boca de wolf safe) and the ID of the Smart Bag to be deposited is verified. Several other examples of modalities that require at least two forms of verification can be reached given the discussion in this document.

[0257] In other arrangements, the manager can gain access to the vault if the manager performs one of the authorized procedures. For example, a specific lockbox at a retailer location can provide access when the manager's badge is scanned or the barcode of the Smart Bag to be deposited is scanned. Numerous other examples of modalities are possible. In addition, access to different vaults may involve or require different forms of verification.

Deposit of Smart Bags inside the Boca de Lobo Safe

[0258] Once access is allowed and the deposit opening for the bags in the mouth of wolf safe is unlocked, the manager proceeds to open the opening and place the Smart Bag inside it. The manager releases the opening, which causes the Smart Bag to be deposited inside the chassis of the storm vault (Step 1170). The bag deposit opening is then immediately locked (Step 1180).

[0259] If access to the vault mouth is not authorized, the bag deposit opening remains blocked. Depending on why access is not allowed, the manager may or may not be notified of why access is denied.

[0260] In the numerous modalities for accessing the vault vault discussed in this document, the vault vault allows the deposit of a single Smart Bag when the bag deposit opening is unlocked. However, in variations of the described modalities, as appropriate, an action designated by the manager (during his request for access to the boca de lobo safe or after authorization of access) will cause the bag deposit opening to remain unlocked for a predetermined period of time. -determined (for example, 1 minute, 2 minutes, 3 minutes, 5 minutes, etc.) to allow the manager to deposit multiple Smart Bags into the vault.

[0261] An example of a designated action that results in the opening of the deposit of bags remaining unlocked for a predetermined period of time includes that the manager will have his badge scanned twice, for example, within a period of (5 ) five seconds. Another example of action includes scanning the barcode of the Smart Bag to be deposited twice within a period of time. A proper application through the retail deposit application can be employed. Other appropriate actions can be established to cause the bag deposit opening to remain open for a period of time.

[0262] During such a period of time, when the bag deposit opening remains open (also called “session” in this document), the manager proceeds to deposit each Smart Bag into the mouth of wolf safe, one at a time , through the opening for depositing bags in the mouth of the wolf safe. In one variation, the bag drop opening is large enough to hold more than one Smart Bag, whereupon the manager is able to place multiple Smart Bags into the bag drop opening and then proceed to deposit the Smart Bags. inside the vault mouth of wolf.

[0263] Before depositing multiple Smart Bags inside the boca de lobo safe, a deposit record must be created for each Smart Bag to be deposited. By allowing the deposit of multiple Smart Bags within a single session, the manager is able to quickly perform this function. In some cases (eg in large retail establishments) the manager may have to deposit a relatively large number of Smart Bags (eg 5 Smart Bags, 10 Smart Bags, etc.). By allowing the manager to deposit more than one Smart Bag during a session, this task can be performed extremely quickly, often taking no more than a minute or two.

Identification of Deposited Smart Bags

[0264] According to the present invention, the deposited item identification and authentication module of the boca de lobo safe identifies the Smart Bags that are in the boca de lobo safe (Step 1190).

[0265] According to certain embodiments, the deposited item identification and authentication module employs the previously described RFID reader inside the tec shelf along the RFID antennas placed inside the chassis to identify the IDs of the RFID tags embedded inside the Smart Bags that were deposited inside the vault mouth of wolf. As discussed in this document, the IDs of several hundred RFID tags can be identified within a few seconds. Likewise, the IDs of all Smart Bags inside the vault are found extremely quickly, possibly taking less than a second in most cases.

[0266] According to the present invention, the mouth of wolf safe is programmable or controlled to make an inventory of its contents at different times. In particular, the boca de lobo safe can verify the IDs of Smart Bags deposited in any of the following events: when unlocking the opening for depositing bags, when locking the opening for depositing bags, when verifying that access is authorized (before unlocking the bag deposit slot), when creating a deposit record, at the start of the retailer's business day, at the close of the business day, when requesting access so the Agent can empty the vault (discussed below), when providing access to the vault to empty, when closing the vault door after emptying the contents, when requesting access for maintenance of the tec shelf, when requesting access to change the vault door after installation and startup of a newly installed tec shelf, after installing a new door, at regular intervals of time (e.g. every 3 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 25 minutes, 60 minutes, etc.), at intervals irregular or random (or pseudo-random) time intervals, and/or at other desired times. In certain embodiments, the storm vault is controlled to take inventory upon the occurrence of multiple of the above events.

[0267] According to other modalities, the deposited item identification and authentication module employs recognition of visual/optical identifiers of the deposited Smart Bags using cameras and/or other optical sensors inside the door and/or inside the chassis. Appropriate specific visual identifiers include barcodes (including 3D barcodes), QR codes, other indicia of the Smart Bag's physical attributes.

[0268] In other embodiments, the deposited item identification and authentication module employs other electronic identification technology including magnetic readers and audible detection (for example, microphones). Smart Bags include corresponding indicators.

[0269] In additional embodiments, the deposited item identification and authentication module employs a combination of the identification technologies set out above.

[0270] The culvert safe of the present invention still identifies the ID of the Smart Bag recently deposited (or that was last deposited) inside the culvert safe (Step 1200). At that time, the deposit record associated with the identified ID of the Smart Bag that was just deposited is updated to reflect that the Smart Bag is contained within the vault and that the contents of the Smart Bag are now in the possession of the processing unit of money, through his vault (Step 1210). At this time, the Smart Bag deposit is completed.

[0271] In the modalities that employ the RFID reader (together with the RFID antennas), the ID of all the Smart Bags inside the mouth of wolf safe is identified each time an inventory is made. Also, as each Smart Bag is deposited into the mouth vault and the contents of the mouth vault are reinvented, the mouth vault (along with the central server) is able to identify the identity of the newly deposited Smart Bag. Likewise, if multiple Smart Bags are deposited (for example, during a single session), the identities of all those newly deposited Smart Bags are verified during the reinvention. The deposit records associated with that newly deposited Smart Bag are updated to reflect that they were received within the vault.

[0272] In the modalities that employ visual/optical recognition, suitable optical equipment (for example, cameras) can be placed inside the door bag deposit opening, or another location inside the door, or inside the chassis to identify the Smart Bag during deposit or immediately after. Likewise, readers/technologies that employ other detection techniques can be placed within the door and/or chassis, and controlled by controllers placed within the tec shelf.

[0273] In these modalities, the vault is able to verify if, and when, the Smart Bag associated with the newly created deposit record was deposited inside the designated vault. Likewise, if the Smart Bag identity was used to gain access to the vault, this is able to identify if, and when, that specific Smart Bag was deposited within the vault.

[0274] The vault still checks that all previously deposited Smart Bags are still inside the vault (Step 1220). That is, it is verified that a previously deposited Smart Bag has not been removed from the vault (i.e., “fished” through the bag deposit opening or removed in some other way).

[0275] The cash processing unit provides the retailer with a credit in its bank in the amount associated with the amount of money inside the deposited Smart Bag (Step 1230). In one variation, credit is provided at the end of the retailer's business day or at another designated time, where the total credit provided represents the cumulative value of Smart Bags deposited. Further details and variations regarding the provision of credit to retailers are provided below.

[0276] According to the present invention, the vault checks the IDs of the Smart Bags that have been deposited, and the deposit records associated with those Smart Bags are updated accordingly. Deposit records include all potentially relevant information, including (along with the aforementioned information and data) whether the Smart Bag was deposited together (i.e., during the same deposit session and/or around the same time) with other Smart Bags of that retailer (with the identities of those other Smart Bags), the way to access the boca de lobo safe, the date/time of deposit, the identity of the depositor, and other potentially relevant information. Likewise, the title chain of each Smart Bag is traced from the beginning of the creation of the deposit until its deposit inside the specific vault.

[0277] According to the present invention, in each of the modalities and variations described herein, the manager, through his mobile device, is provided with information about the Smart Bag or Smart Bags that were successfully deposited in the boca de lobo safe. For example, a brief message can be provided that simply indicates that the Smart Bag(s) has been received by the vault. The message can be provided through the application on the mobile device, via SMS, via email or in another appropriate way. The information provided to the manager can be more detailed and include relevant information about deposits, such as the amount in the Smart Bag, date/time of deposit, etc. (including information in the deposit register).

[0278] In cases where multiple Smart Bags are deposited within a short period of time (for example, a few minutes), the manager can receive confirmation on the mobile device that the Smart Bags that have specific IDs have been accepted, along with other information such as the respective amounts of money within each deposited Smart Bag, and/or the total amount of money represented by all deposited Smart Bags.

[0279] The information provided to the manager via the mobile device may be an abbreviated version of the report generated and accessible to the retailer through a portal that allows the retailer to establish accounts for individual employees, access deposit records, and other financial and non-financial information financial. Since the portal and data accessed by retailers regarding their financial and non-financial information are well known in the art, a more detailed description is not provided except as necessary for understanding the present invention.

[0280] The manhole safes of the present invention employ technology that identifies their contents. As discussed above, content can be inventoried and reinvented at various times. If a Smart Bag is missing from the vault, alerts are communicated to the system for appropriate action and treatment.

[0281] In another variation of the modalities described above, the retailer's manager can use a general purpose computer, such as a desktop computer or a laptop computer, to generate a deposit record. In such a variation, the software application installed on the computer can be employed or the manager can access a certain website that facilitates the warehouse creation process (or via another process using a computer). The computer's camera is used to scan the Smart Bag barcode. In the absence of the camera, the ID number printed on the outside of the Smart Bag can be manually entered by the manager (or someone else) into the computer. Other appropriate techniques for verifying the Smart Bag ID may be employed.

[0282] It is appreciated that the processor(s) within the tec shelf of the boca de lobo safe control the various components of the boca de lobo safe, including, for example, the opening for depositing bags, and such control can be implemented or determined, or otherwise assisted, by central server communications. The discussion is presented here for convenience as the vault performing such actions, but the invention incorporates other control scenarios, including control of all or some of the components of the vault by the central server (or other suitable controller). , as would be appreciated in the art).

Invoice Insertion Process

[0283] The B-Safe of the present invention includes equipment/technology that accept banknotes, recognize their nominal value, verify their authenticity, and dispense the banknote inside the chassis of the mouth of wolf safe. Other modalities of the vault can use such equipment/technology. For convenience, the following discussion is presented in terms of the use of such equipment within the B-Safe of the present invention. However, it is understood that the discussion applies equally to other vault safes of the present invention that also accept individual bills.

[0284] In an illustrative embodiment, B-Safe includes a pair of bill validators to allow the manager to manually deposit bills. In accordance with the present invention, and with reference to the flowchart 1300 shown in Figure 20, the manager (or other designated person) seeks access to the B-Safe (Step 1310). B-Safe determines whether access is authorized (Step 1320) and, if so, B-Safe notifies the manager that access is authorized (Step 1330). At this time, an active deposit session is started.

[0285] According to different embodiments of the present invention, the manager seeks access to B-Safe in various ways. In one embodiment, the tec shelf user and deposited item authorization module employs the above-discussed barcode/QR code scanner for this function. In this modality, the manager places his badge in front of the barcode/QR code scanner, the barcode (or other indication) on the badge is read, and then the mouth of wolf safe (together with the central server) verifies whether that person's access is authorized as described above with respect to verifying access to the Brink's Box (including all variations described, as appropriate).

[0286] The manager seeks access to B-Safe in other ways, according to other embodiments of the present invention. In particular, any of the ways described above to gain access to the vault to deposit a Smart Bag may be employed. For example, an RFID tag embedded in a manager's badge is read by an appropriate reader to verify the manager's identity. Other indicia on the manager badge or other technology on the badge may be employed.

[0287] In still other modalities, facial recognition or other biometric information can be obtained and then used to identify the manager, and verify that the identified person is authorized.

[0288] In other embodiments, the manager's retail warehouse application can be employed, where the manager makes an appropriate request (via the application) when he/she is in the vicinity of the B-Safe.

[0289] Multiple forms of identification may be required before providing access to B-Safe. In other embodiments, the manager can seek access via any of the numerous authorized methods. .

[0290] In yet other variations, access to the B-Safe bill validators can be achieved simultaneously with access to the B-Safe deposit opening. Likewise, any of the techniques/modalities described above to make the opening of the deposit of bags in the mouth of the vault can be used, to gain access to the validators of B-Safe banknotes.

[0291] In any of these modalities and variations, the equipment, techniques, and methodologies that have been described to gain access to the bag deposit opening can be used to strictly gain access to the bill validators of the boca de lobo safe.

[0292] Once access to the bill validators has been authorized, an appropriate signal is provided to let the manager know that he/she can start depositing bills (Step 1330). In one version, the B-Safe light strip changes from blue, which represents an idle condition, to green, which represents an active deposit session. Other color schemes may be employed and/or ways of notifying the manager that the active session may be used.

[0293] During the active session, the manager inserts notes, one at a time, into any of the note validators (Step 1340). As the bill validator receives an individual bill, the bill validator verifies its face value and verifies its authenticity (Step 1350). If authentic, the note is accepted and fed into the B-Safe chassis (Step 1360). Data identifying the face value of each banknote accepted, the number of each banknote accepted, the total value of banknotes accepted during the session, date/time of acceptance, and other relevant information is maintained within the tec shelf processor and other ) appropriate processor(s) (eg central server).

[0294] If the banknote is inauthentic or significantly damaged, the banknote is not accepted and returned. Since the manner and operation of the banknote validator are well known in the art, a more detailed description for determining the nominal value and validating the banknote, as well as the mechanical equipment for accepting and feeding the banknotes, are not described in this document, except where necessary for understanding the present invention.

[0295] Accepted bills fall into a box placed inside the chassis. A single, sufficiently large box is placed below both bill validators and captures bills passing through each of the bill validators (Step 1370).

[0296] During this process, the manager is provided in real time on his mobile device with the monetary value of the bills that were accepted by the bill validators (Step 1380). Information can be provided to the manager via the mobile device in several ways. In one version, the manager opens (or has already opened) the retail warehouse application described above and information is provided through the retail warehouse application. The manager can open a different application that is dedicated to the process of entering notes. When pre-established and desired, information can be provided to the manager via text messages, email or other messaging system that is supported by the mobile device.

[0297] The information provided may be the total monetary deposit amount at session completion. The information provided may include the total monetary deposit amount as the session proceeds, with the monetary value identified on the mobile device increasing as notes are fed into and accepted by the note validators. The information may include a breakdown of the deposit by face value (eg, number of $100 bills, number of $50 bills, etc.). The information provided may be in numeric and/or graphic form. For example, as a bill is accepted (eg $100 bill) by one of the bill validators, the mobile device can display a graphical representation of that bill. Other techniques for providing feedback to the manager during and/or after the grade entry process can be employed.

[0298] When banknotes are not received by banknote validators for a predetermined period, such as 20 seconds, 40 seconds, one minute, two minutes (or other predetermined periods of time), the deposit session ends and the note validators are controlled to no longer accept notes (step 1390). In a variation, B-Safe can be programmed to keep the deposit session active until a pre-established time of day (for example, one hour after closing time), or when a certain event occurs, such as depression of the B-Safe 340 LCD screen/button, manager badge scanning, or other designated action.

[0299] During the active session, if a second employee seeks access to the B-Safe (via any appropriate technique of any appropriate modality/variation) (for example, such as by scanning his badge by the barcode/QR code of the B-Safe), then the deposit's current session (for the previous individual) ends and a new active session begins. The new active session is associated with the second employee. Each lockbox can be configured to start an active session and end an active session according to the respective retailer preferences.

[0300] As mentioned earlier, the above discussion applies equally to other types of vaults that employ bill validators or other technology that is capable of accepting bills, verifying their face value, verifying their authenticity, and dispensing the verified bill inside the chassis of the mouth of wolf safe.

[0301] In other embodiments of the present invention, such as the Recycler Safe, access to the small form factor banknote recycler by the manager (or other persons) can be obtained in any way that the banknote validators can be accessed as herein described. Also, in other embodiments of the present invention that employ different equipment/functionality, access to such equipment/functionality can be obtained in a variety of ways.

[0302] In the modalities described here, the rights associated with employees, that is, the capabilities that employees of retailers can perform either through the applications described here (or other software applications) and/or directly with the boca de lobo safe (or multiple vaults), can be dynamically managed within the central server to adapt authorizations and functionality based on retailer preferences and other factors. For example, top-level managers will be assigned the highest level of capabilities, while lower-level employees will be assigned more restrictive capabilities.

[0303] Various features and capabilities include creating a deposit register, gaining access to the deposit opening of the boca de lobo safe, gaining access to the validator of banknotes of the boca de lobo safe or other equipment that accepts individual notes, gaining access to the Recycler from the boca de lobo vault, gaining access to other technology within the boca de lobo vault, the times/days such access is provided and/or criteria under which access is provided (e.g., only during and/or shift work), the length of time access is available, etc. The manner in which a piece of equipment is accessed may also be different depending on the level or other assignment of employees. Based on the retailer's preferences, selected employees can only access a certain piece of equipment within the vault one way (as per the retailer's preference), while other employees can access the equipment in multiple ways. For example, select employees can access bill validators only when their badge is scanned by the boca de lobo vault, while other higher level employees can use the retail deposit app to gain access, along with the option to have their badge scanned, and/or using another access technique.

[0304] For the retailer associated with a single vault, access rights and capabilities of employees of this retailer are limited to the associated vault vault only. For retailers associated with multiple lockboxes (whether those lockboxes are within the same location or in different facilities), the ability to access multiple lockboxes may be the same or different for each specific employee receiving access.

[0305] In any of the embodiments and scenarios provided herein, the present invention is capable of responding quickly, if not immediately, to altered or changing circumstances. In accordance with the present invention, the retailer may assign entitlements/access capabilities based on role and/or other status and assignments associated with each employee. Then, when the employee's role, status, or assignment changes, the person's rights and access capabilities are automatically modified to match the updated role/status/assignment. Equally, retailers don't have to remember to manually change specific employee entitlements when circumstances change. In addition to role, position, and the like, other conditions or designations may include location (for example, when the employee is transferred to a different retail location), a change from full-time to part-time work (or vice versa) , working hours, termination, etc.

[0306] According to the present invention, the employee can receive rights / access that allow him to handle deposits from various retailers. For example, one person is able to collect deposits (i.e., collect Smart Bags) from multiple companies and deposit the multiple Smart Bags in a given vault. The Smart Bags are associated with different retailers, but a single person is handling and depositing the Smart Bags in a vault. To ensure adequate tracking, in one modality, access to the bag deposit opening of the boca de lobo safe must involve the person providing their badge, biometrics, or something else that specifically identifies the person. That is, access is not obtained through the vault identifying a Smart Bag to be deposited. In another embodiment, the person must use their mobile device to gain access. In yet another embodiment, the person must use their mobile device along with the badge (or biometric information) to identify the person in order to gain access. Other scenarios, as discussed here, are possible.

[0307] Therefore, the present invention is capable of employing a combination of checks and authorizations, including tracking the person's location and the location of the safe box, to handle and process deposits from any number of retailers, and if the safe box specific wolf is placed in a retail location or common area. Additionally, by associating Smart Bags with a storm vault determined at the time of creating a warehouse record, changes to the locations of the storm vaults result in an automatic alignment of the warehouses with those transferred storm vaults. On the other hand, decisions about where to locate lockboxes that are not necessarily associated with a specific retailer can be made based on recent historical data pertinent to the retailer warehouse records created.

Advance Credit

[0308] According to the present invention, when depositing Smart Bags via deposit openings and/or money via note validators, the retailer who made the deposit receives a credit to his bank account in the total amount of the deposit. Credit can be immediate. Credit can be provided once a day, such as at a specified time after the retailer closes or at another specified time. Crediting can occur several times a day. For retailers that have multiple locations, such as multiple locations in different zones, credit can be provided once per business day or at close of business within each respective time zone, or at another specified time. In many circumstances, credit is provided before Smart Bags and loose bills are removed from the vault. In some cases, credit is provided several days (or longer) before Smart Bags and loose bills are removed from the vault. Providing retailer credit in advance is also discussed in US Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0006249, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Agent Withdrawal Process

[0309] The manhole safes of the present invention are emptied by authorized persons (called “Agents” in this document). The service provided by Agents may be an armored car service or other appropriate service.

[0310] According to the present invention, the Agent is authorized by managing the rights of the person contained in his profile residing on the central server. This information is used in conjunction with the specific authorized route containing the mouth of wolf vault to be accessed. When the Agent arrives, he/she begins the authorization process by logging into an Agent application on his/her mobile device with the appropriate credentials to verify the user's identity. This can be a combination of passcodes, PINs and/or biometrics provided to the location-enabled mobile device. In the place that contains the mouth of wolf safe, the specifications of the mouth of wolf safe to be accessed are accessed by entering a code or reading the proximity of the smart device and safe. If the Agent is properly identified and authorized, and it is determined that it is near a valid vault and is communicating with the central server, a protected authorization message is issued to the vault to allow access. This access is limited to a single use in that vault and must be used within a certain time window. If it expires before use, another access authorization must be requested.

[0311] This dynamic process that occurs between the three entities - the Agent's mobile device, the vault and the central server - is different from any current process employed in the industry that makes use of unique codes. This dynamic process allows for real-time management of access to account for changes in the person's authorization and/or rights to specific vaults.

[0312] The process summarized above is described in greater detail with reference to the flowchart 1400 shown in Figures 21A and 21B. Initially, a specific culvert vault is determined to be emptied according to a predetermined schedule or an indication that the culvert vault has reached a certain capacity (or other reason to empty the culvert vault ) (Step 1410).

[0313] A draft vault can be programmed to be emptied daily, every other day, every three days, etc., based on historical usage or other information. In addition, the draft vault can be programmed (or the central server programmed) to schedule a draft vault emptying when the vault includes or exceeds a predetermined number of Smart Bags (e.g. 15 Smart Bags , 25 Smart Bags, 40 Smart Bags, 60 Smart Bags, etc.). For B-Safes and other modalities that include banknote validators, emptying can be programmed if a predetermined number of banknotes have been accepted by the banknote validators and deposited in the chassis of the mouth of wolf safe. A drain can be scheduled if the total monetary value of deposits exceeds a predetermined amount, in order to minimize monetary risk. Other reasons may be used to determine that the vault must be emptied.

[0314] To start removing the content from the boca de lobo safe, the authorized Agent opens the application on his mobile device (Step 1420). Similar to retailer authentication when using the retail warehouse application, the Agent application employs known security measures to ensure mobile device authenticity and verification of the Agent's identity (Step 1430). All manners and variations of manager mobile device authentication and all manners and variations of manager identity verification as described herein (in connection with deposit creation) may be employed to authenticate the Agent's mobile device and verify the identity of the Agent.

[0315] The Agent proceeds to obtain access to the vault, identifying the vault to be emptied (Step 1440). This is accomplished in different ways, according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0316] In one mode, the Agent scans, through the camera of the mobile device, the QR code that is in the vault to be emptied. The QR code, which appears on the outside of the storm drain in any accessible location, uniquely identifies the vault. In a variation, other forms of visual signs may be employed, such as bar codes or the other form of identifiable signs mentioned herein.

[0317] According to another embodiment, the Agent's mobile device includes NFC capability, or iBeacon, or other appropriate RFID communication technology, and the Agent's mobile device obtains the ID from an RFID tag (or other active electronic device or passive) combined with the storm vault, placed inside the vault's tec shelf, or placed in another location in the storm vault that is capable of being detected by the Agent's mobile device.

[0318] In a variation, the Agent also has other equipment capable of detecting the ID of the RFID tag (or other electronic tag) in the boca de lobo safe, and that other equipment wirelessly transmits the information to the Agent's mobile device for further treatment.

[0319] Other means of identifying the vault can be used, including any variation/technique discussed here to identify Smart Bags.

[0320] Upon verifying the ID of the vault to be emptied, the Agent's mobile device provides that information to the central server (Step 1450). The central server includes records about each lockbox, and therefore identifies all relevant information about the identified lockbox, including the physical location of the lockbox, the retailer that the lockbox is associated with, the store specific retailer (in the case of multiple stores and/or locations) that the gully vault is associated with, the last time the gully vault was emptied, any deposits that have been made in that gully vault since the last collection (based on the retail deposit activity discussed above), the identity of previous Agents who previously emptied that vault, and other relevant information.

[0321] The Agent's mobile device also provides the central server with the current location of the Agent's mobile device (using its GPS) (Step 1460). In accordance with the present invention, the central server determines whether the Agent's mobile device is currently located within proximity of the known location of the vault to be emptied (Step 1470. If so, then the central server generates a code time-dependent, exclusive authorization code (also referred to herein as an “OTA code”) (Step 1480) The OTA code is transmitted to the Agent's mobile device (Step 1490).

[0322] The OTA code is generated based on several different data elements and encrypted in order to maximize security and prevent theft/decryption by unauthorized persons. For example, the data may include the locations of the Agent and the vault to be emptied, the current date and time, the Agent's identity, the Agent's user ID, the identity of the retailer with which the vault wolf is associated with, and other types of information. OTA code generation may include any combination of these data elements, or none at all, and may be based on appropriate industry accepted methodologies for generating a one-time use authorization code, which authorization code is then used to gain access to the digital safe. As the various technologies and methodologies used to generate an appropriate one-time authorization code are well known in the art, their more detailed description is not provided, except where necessary for an understanding of the present invention.

[0323] If the Agent's mobile device is not close enough to the vault to be emptied, then the OTA code is not generated and the Agent receives an appropriate notification indicating that there is a problem and that the Agent is not authorized to proceed (Step 1475). Steps to correct the situation can be provided.

[0324] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the Agent's mobile device, through the Agent's application, displays the OTA Code in the form of a QR Code on the display of the mobile device (Step 1599). In one variation, the OTA Code is displayed in another two-dimensional form (or in a one-dimensional form, such as a barcode).

[0325] While the OTA Code is displayed, the Agent quickly places the mobile device in front of the barcode/QR code scanner which, in turn, reads the displayed OTA Code (Step 1510). The vault determines whether the scanned code corresponds to the correct OTA code that was just generated by the central server (step 1520). Such a determination may be performed in any manner acceptable to the industry. The determination can be performed by the central server, by the central server working together with the mouth vault or by the mouth vault itself.

[0326] As the methodologies that allow the creation of a code with unique authorization, its transmission, and verification by another device with the accuracy and legitimacy of a presented code, are well known in the art, a more detailed description is not provided, except as necessary for an understanding of the present invention.

[0327] Upon verification that the OTA Code presented is accurate and legitimate, the digital lock of the boca de lobo safe is unlocked, which allows the Agent to open the door of the boca de lobo safe, thus gaining access to the contents of the safe's chassis (Step 1530).

[0328] According to a variation of the modality above, as an additional security measure, the Agent application displays the OTA Code for a relatively short predetermined period of time. Examples of time include 10 seconds, 20 seconds, 30 seconds, 45 seconds, 1 minute, 1 minute 30 seconds, 2 minutes, etc.

[0329] In another variation, the OTA Code is time sensitive, ie it expires after a predetermined period of time (separately from how long the OTA Code is displayed by the Agent's mobile device). For example, the OTA Code must be received by the vault and transmitted to the central server within a predetermined period of time after the OTA Code is first generated. Any appropriate time period can be determined. As it is time sensitive, unauthorized interception of the OTA Code and later misuse of the OTA Code will not be accepted as the OTA Code will have already expired.

[0330] In another variation, the Agent application displays the OTA Code for a predetermined period of time and the OTA Code is time sensitive (for another predetermined period of time) in order to provide even more security against attempts to improperly open the safe mouth of wolf. For example, in both variations, attempts to take a picture or copy the OTA Code (eg via a different device) to allow further entry into the vault will not be successful.

[0331] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the Agent's mobile device transmits, wirelessly, the OTA code, in a non-visual way, to the mouth of wolf safe. Transmission can take place using NFC, Bluetooth or other short-range communication or RF-type proximity communication. Other forms of non-visual short range communication can be employed.

[0332] If the Agent is not able to provide the OTA Code from its mobile device to the smart vault within a designated period of time, the Agent will have to repeat the whole process to receive a new OTA Code from the central server.

[0333] As previously discussed, the manhole safe of the present invention finds the ID of each Smart Bag that is inside its chassis. Such an inventory takes place at different times and after, during or before certain events, as already discussed. Preferably, the vault takes yet another inventory of its contents prior to access and emptying by the Agent. For example, the inventory can occur when the Agent transmits the vault ID to the central server, when the Agent's mobile device receives the OTA Code, and/or at any other time (including several times), and even immediately before of unlocking the door of the vault mouth (Step 1530). Likewise, the vault and central server identified each Smart Bag to be removed by the Agent.

[0334] To assist the Agent, the central server can transmit to the Agent's mobile device the number of Smart Bags included in the safe that need to be removed. Through the Agent application, this information is provided to the Agent. Optionally, the ID of each Smart Bag inside the vault can also be provided to the Agent's mobile device and then displayed to the Agent. However, as the vault can have more than 30 or more Smart Bags, providing the ID of each Smart Bag when emptying the vault may unnecessarily delay the Agent. But such information can be used after the safe has been completely emptied. For example, the Agent can scan the barcode of each Smart Bag removed (for example, while the Agent is safely inside their vehicle or elsewhere, or optionally while still at the retailer) to verify that each Smart Bag that was previously inside the storm vault is now safely in the Agent's possession. In one variation, the transfer container mentioned below, into which the Agent transfers Smart Bags (as discussed below), may include its own associated RFID reader/antenna which is used to identify and verify that all Smart Bags within the vault snapdragons were transferred to the custody of the Agent.

Emptying the Brink's Box Contents

[0335] When the vault safe is a Brink's Box (or another similar version) of the present invention, the only removable content inside the chassis are the deposited Smart Bags. Therefore, when the Brink's Box is being emptied, the Agent removes all deposited Smart Bags (Step 1540 in Figure 21B). To facilitate the removal of Smart Bags, a large bucket can optionally be provided at the bottom of the chassis, which captures all deposited Smart Bags. The Agent then removes the bucket from the chassis and transfers all Smart Bags from the bucket into an appropriate container (Step 1550). The Agent places the now empty bucket back inside the bottom of the chassis.

[0336] When completing the emptying of the Brink's Box, the Agent closes the door, which is automatically locked (Step 1560). After the door is closed and locked, Brink's Box scans its contents (Step 1570). For example, in the modalities that employ an RFID reader inside the tec shelf and RFID antenna inside the chassis, if all the Smart Bags were removed by the Agent, no RFID tag should be detected. If, however, a Smart Bag is detected, the Smart Bag will be flagged as not removed from the draft vault.

[0337] The Agent can be alerted that the Smart Bag remains in the vault, and the Agent can repeat the above process to gain access to the storm vault. The Agent may be unable to retrieve the Smart Bag (for whatever reason) and, in this case, the Smart Bag will be retrieved during the next vault emptying.

[0338] The Agent takes the removed Smart Bags and transfers them to the cash processing unit for further handling.

[0339] To minimize the risk, when opening the vault as discussed here, the Agent is given a relatively short period of time to empty the contents of the vault. During this designated time period, the vault light strip is green to inform the Agent that the two minute period has not yet expired. After the given period of time, the light strip turns yellow to inform the Agent that he/she has passed the given period of time to empty the vault.

[0340] When the light strip turns yellow, a representative of the cash processing unit (or other entity) may contact (eg call) the Agent to ask if there is a problem. Thus, the status (as indicated by the color of the light strip on the vault) together with the handling procedures required by the Agent allow the vault to be emptied quickly, neatly and ideally safely. Other colors, deadlines and procedures can be used in addition to those mentioned above. Optionally, the lockbox LCD screen/button provides a countdown timer to inform the Agent how much time he/she has until the end of the designated time period.

Emptying B-Safe Contents

[0341] When the vault to be emptied is a B-Safe of the present invention or another similar version, the content to be removed includes the Smart Bag and the banknotes that were accepted by the banknote validators.

[0342] The Agent removes all deposited Smart Bags from the B-Safe (Step 1580 in Figure 21B) and transfers the removed Smart Bags to an appropriate transfer container (Step 1590). These steps are performed in basically the same way for Brink's Box and B-Safe.

[0343] The Agent then removes all notes from inside the chassis that were accepted by the note validators (Step 1600). As mentioned earlier, a sufficiently large box is placed below the note validators and captures the notes that have been accepted by the note validators. Likewise, the Agent is able to quickly remove the bills by removing the box and transferring the contents of that box to a separate bag of loose bills (Step 1610). The Agent then returns the now empty box to the chassis.

[0344] According to the present invention, in one version, the loose banknote transfer bag can include an RFID tag inside it and have an RFID tag ID provided on the outside of the bag in human-eye readable format and as a code of bars (similar to the Smart Bag). The Agent launches the loose note transfer bag ID to the Agent application running on the Agent's mobile device (Step 1620). The ID can be entered manually (using the ID printed on the bag) or it can be obtained by using the Agent's mobile device camera to scan the barcode that is on the outside of the bag. This step is similar to the step of the retail manager obtaining the ID of a new Smart Bag, as discussed above. In addition, any other version/technique/modality for obtaining Smart Bag ID, as discussed here, can be employed to identify the loose banknote transfer bag.

[0345] Upon obtaining the ID of the loose bill transfer bag and placing the loose bills inside that bag, the central server creates the deposit record (Step 1630) that identifies the total money inside the loose bill transfer bag, as well as the number of banknotes per face value, along with the ID of that bag, and other information, including the identity (or identities) of the person(s) depositing those banknotes (based on the previously described usage of banknote validators by retailer), the date/time of each deposit via banknote validators, the retailer associated with B-Safe, and other relevant information. The loose note transfer bag is sealed and placed inside the transfer container (Step 1640) along with the removed Smart Bags.

[0346] After all Smart Bags and loose bills are removed from the B-Safe, the Agent closes the door, which is automatically locked (Step 1650). Thereafter, B-Safe conducts a scan of its contents (Step 1660). This scan is the same as discussed above for the Brink's Box after it has been emptied. If Smart Bag is detected inside B-Safe, B-Safe proceeds as discussed above.

[0347] The Agent transfers the Smart Bags and the loose banknote transfer bag to the cash processing unit for later handling.

[0348] The order of the above steps may be different. For example, loose bills can be removed from B-Safe first, followed by removing Smart Bags. As another example, the Loose Banknote Transfer Bag ID can be obtained and entered into the Agent application before the Agent transfers Loose Banknotes from the Chassis to the Loose Banknote Transfer Bag. Additional steps or substeps can be included within this process.

[0349] In one variation, the loose note transfer bag does not include an associated ID, and therefore, steps 1620 and 1630 in Figure 21B are omitted from the Agent withdrawal process. Other variations may be possible.

[0350] In another variation of the present invention, the B-Safe chassis includes a box liner (box liner 444 shown in Figure 12B) inside the box 442. Likewise, as soon as the bill validators accept bills, the bills accepted fall into the box lining. During the removal of B-Safe contents, the Agent removes the entire liner from the box (with the banknotes inside), places the box liner inside an appropriate envelope, or the Loose Bill Transfer Bag discussed above, or other appropriate receptacle, which is then sealed. The Agent places a new, empty case liner inside the B-Safe chassis case, and closes the B-Safe door. In this variation, the Agent advantageously has no physical contact with loose bills that have been accepted by B-Safe's bill validators. Furthermore, the chance of a note being unintentionally dropped or misplaced is reduced by the use of a case liner that has captured all notes that have been accepted and released from the note validators.

[0351] In yet another variation, rather than employing a case liner, the loose note transfer bag discussed above can be installed inside the B-Safe chassis prior to use, and designed to itself capture the notes that were accepted by the note validators. In such a variation, when a new (and empty) transfer bag is placed inside B-Safe, the Agent obtains the ID of the new transfer bag via the Agent application, where a record is created and associated with that transfer bag. loose notes. Therefore, as grade validators accept grades, the record is updated to reflect the accepted grades. Then, when the contents of the B-Safe are about to be emptied, the Agent removes the loose banknote transfer bag and seals it. The Agent then proceeds to obtain the ID of the new (and empty) transfer bag and place this new bag properly in the B-Safe chassis for subsequent use.

[0352] In this variation, the Agent obtains the ID of a new loose banknote transfer bag by using his mobile device to scan the barcode on the outside of the bag (or manually enter the ID printed on the outside of the bag, or employing another technique described here). Alternatively, instead of the Agent obtaining the ID of the new loose banknote transfer bag, the ID of this new bag is obtained by B-Safe itself after the B-Safe door closes and locks. That is, as discussed above, when the door of the B-Safe is closed, the B-Safe scans its contents (eg, in certain embodiments, through its RFID reader and RFID antenna) (Step 1660 in Figure 21B). In this variation, B-Safe will detect the RFID tag of the newly placed transfer bag and, at this point, a new record associated with this bag can be created.

[0353] It is appreciated that the name “loose banknote transfer bag” is used here for convenience, but other terms for this bag, and for other elements and components discussed here, may be used. Furthermore, in the variation above which involves placing a new, empty transfer bag inside the B-Safe chassis before closing the door, the Agent does not need to have physical contact with bills that have been accepted by the bill validators. The Agent only has to remove and seal the transfer bag, then place a new transfer bag in the appropriate location inside the B-Safe chassis. This job, along with removing the Smart Bags that have been deposited in the B-Safe, is a process that can be performed very quickly.

[0354] According to the present invention, instead of using a liner or a box, another suitable container, such as a canvas bag, can be used to capture the banknotes that have been accepted by the banknote validators. Certain countries may have strict rules about what types of items may be used in cash-accepting devices, and the present intent is able to accommodate these rules.

[0355] The B-Safe of the present invention includes a pair of bill validators. If one of the bill validators is damaged, jammed or not operating properly, that validator shuts down, but the retailer is still able to deposit bills through the bill validator that is operating. As mentioned above, if the bill validator(s) has accepted an amount of money or an amount of bills that exceeds the pre-set limit, the Agent may be instructed to empty the contents of the B-Safe. Upon accepting that amount of money or amount of bills, bill validators can be turned off. In such cases, the retailer can still make deposits through the use of Smart Bags that are deposited using the vault's dump opening.

[0356] In a variation of what's shown here, B-Safe can employ a different number of bill validators. For example, B-Safe can employ a single bill validator, three bill validators, or another number. The shape and configuration of the Brink's Box and B-Safe, and any of their respective components, may differ from that shown and/or described here.

[0357] The content of other embodiments of the present invention that employ other equipment, such as the small form factor banknote recycler, coin counter, etc. may be performed in ways similar to, or the same as, those described in connection with Brink's Box or B-Safe. Regardless of the equipment that is employed, given the detailed discussion contained herein, the Agent is able to access the vault using the new methodologies, techniques, and equipment as described herein, and then empty the contents of the vault. To avoid duplication, step-by-step discussion of how the Agent empties the Recycler Safe or other type of safe with different equipment is not provided.

Central Server

[0358] As discussed here, the manhole safes of the present invention communicate with a central server, and both the manager's mobile device and the Agent's mobile device communicate with the central server while using the applications described here. Communication with the central server takes place in real time, and can be performed in any manner consistent with any appropriate communication protocols, as appreciated by those skilled in the art. The details of communication modes and protocols are not discussed here, except when necessary for understanding the present invention.

[0359] The central server maintains / stores all records of the deposits that have been created, and maintains / stores data pertinent to the identity, functions, capabilities, location, etc., with respect to each vault vault of the present invention. The central server maintains/stores records/data with respect to each retailer and their respective employees (or at least the employees authorized to use the mobile device to facilitate deposits within the vault). The central server maintains/stores records/data with respect to all Agents authorized to empty culvert safes, and maintains/stores records/data with respect to all service personnel authorized to service culvert safes (e.g., replace the tec shelf, change the door to convert a Brink's Box to B-Safe, etc.). The central server maintains/stores any other information necessary to assist in the execution of the various processes of the present invention.

[0360] The central server functions described herein may be performed by multiple servers and other equipment, with such servers and other equipment controlled by one or more entities. The present invention has been described in such a way as to make the invention understood by persons skilled in the art, but, as appreciated by those skilled in the art, variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0361] According to the present invention, the central server receives, from each vault, data regarding the activity that is taking place or has just occurred in relation to those vaults. Likewise, the central server is in communication with the mobile devices of retailers, Agents and service personnel. While using appropriate applications on these devices, the mobile devices are in communication with the central server and therefore the central server is providing and/or receiving data to/from the mobile devices relating to the processes described here. For example, during the creation of a warehouse record by the retailer manager, the central server can cause certain information to be auto-populated in the warehouse record, such as the identity of the retailer, and other information. Implementation of these features as described in this document is well within the ability of those skilled in the art, and therefore details on how these applications operate, the types of information transmitted to and from the central server, are not provided here, except when particularly necessary for understanding the present invention.

Additional Modalities

[0362] Each trap door described here may include additional equipment used by retailers.

[0363] In one variation, the vault includes a coin counter for accepting bulk coins. The “coin counter” may be connected to the mouth of the vault or included within it. The retailer can gain access to the coin counter similar to the access gained to bill validators. For example, the employee can have their badge scanned by the lockbox in order to identify the employee and then the employee places the coins with the device receptacle. Any other modality/technique/process to access banknote validators can be used to access the coin counter.

[0364] A deposit record is created for deposited coins. As the design, construction, and implementation of the coin counter or other similar functional equipment are well known, a detailed description is not provided here.

[0365] Gutter safes can employ a display monitor to provide additional information to managers and other employees of retailers, Agents, service personnel, etc. It is appreciated that the embodiments described above do not include the display monitor other than a very small LCD screen/button. The screen/button is depressible and provides countdown information during sessions. Most (or almost all or all) of the information is provided to the retailer's manager and other personnel via mobile devices. However, in other variations, instead of employing an LCD screen/button, the mouth of wolf safe only includes a button. In yet another variation, the LCD screen/button is omitted altogether. In these two variations, the manhole vault of the present invention does not include any visualization.

[0366] In yet another variation, manhole safes are “disconnected” devices. That is, mouth-of-wolf vaults do not communicate directly with the central server (i.e., via cellular communication, via the Internet, or via another long-range communication protocol). In contrast, mouth-of-wolf safes include Bluetooth (or other short-range communication) capabilities, so they can communicate directly with the manager's mobile device, the Agent's mobile device, and the service personnel's mobile devices via Bluetooth (or other short-range communication technique or protocol). Likewise, while the manager is using the retail warehouse application on his mobile device, the mobile device and the vault are in direct communication. Preferably, the communication between the two devices employs exclusive connections, where the manhole safe is capable of connecting to only a single mobile device at a time. This offers better security of data communicated between devices.

[0367] A suitable communication protocol that can be used is Bluetooth 4.0, or another equivalent or later versions that have the desired properties. In Bluetooth 4.0, the relevant area of technology is the GATT (Generic Attribute) profile, which defines how two Bluetooth Low Energy devices, one in the mobile device and the other in the vault, transfer data in both directions using concepts called Services and Features. As is known, this profile makes use of a generic data protocol called Attribute Protocol (ATT), which is used to store services, characteristics and associated data in a lock table.

[0368] The present invention in this variation employs the above technology/protocols to maintain the connection between the user's mobile device and the specific vault. Once the user's mobile device connects with the boca de wolf vault, the devices no longer advertise. That is, once the connection is established, other devices no longer notice the existence of the devices and therefore are no longer able to connect. According to the present invention, data is transmitted between the mouth of wolf safe and the mobile device only after such an exclusive connection is established, therefore, guaranteeing a confidential, unalterable flow of information between the devices.

[0369] In the “disconnected” devices described here, after one or more Smart Bags are deposited in the boca de lobo safe (and similarly after the banknotes are accepted by the banknote validators in versions that include banknote validators), the boca de lobo safe communicates to the manager's mobile device that the deposit(s) into the boca de lobo safe has been made and accepted, with the values associated with the deposits. As in the above modalities, the information is provided to the manager's mobile device in real time, therefore providing the user with a “richer” experience.

[0370] According to this version of the present invention, the data that reflect the activity that took place between the manager and the mouth of wolf safe are stored, in certain versions, within the manager's mobile device. Such data includes the amount of money deposited, including bills that have been accepted by bill validators, date of deposit, and other relevant information. These can all be included within the deposit register that was initially created prior to depositing the money. When the manager is in a location that has cellular service (or WIFI) that allows communication between the manager's mobile device and the central server, stored data relating to the warehouse is communicated to the central server.

[0371] In certain versions, after receipt by the central server from the manager's mobile device, of the data representing the deposit described above, the money processing unit processes the deposit as if the data were received directly from the vault. In certain arrangements, the retailer's bank account receives a credit for the deposit amount. Credit can be provided immediately, at the end of the business day, or at another time. A discussion of providing retailers with advance credit prior to cash delivery is being discussed in US Application Publication No. 2009/0006249, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0372] As illustrated in the above discussion of the "disconnected" version of the safe mouth of the present invention, the retail manager is able to receive, in real time, data and other information related to the deposit being made, including the amount of the deposit and , in certain versions, a warehouse detail report that shows the value of each nominal amount reflected in the warehouse. The Agent who empties the “disconnected” storm vault receives, via the Agent's mobile device, all records, transactions, other data relating to development at least since the last time the storm vault was emptied. This information is then transmitted from the Agent's mobile device to the central server immediately, or when the Agent's mobile device is in a location where cellular communication is provided.

[0373] Likewise, the storm drain safes of the present invention can be used in areas where there is no cellular coverage and/or other form of communication with the central server.

[0374] In another variation, the manhole safes of the present invention can include both long-range communication with the central server, as previously discussed with reference to the various figures, and include Bluetooth communication (as discussed above in the “disconnected” versions ” from the mouth of wolf vaults).

[0375] The manhole safes of the present invention can be sized to accommodate various amounts of deposited Smart Bags. In some cases, the draft vault may be a relatively large draft vault or a small draft vault, each sized to meet the customer's needs. Relative chassis size may vary as appropriate.

[0376] In a variation, the form of the codes discussed here may differ. For example, in one version, the employee can gain access to the boca de wolf safe with the barcode of his badge read by the scanner/barcode reader/QR code of the boca de wolf safe. The badge can include a QR code or other type of computer-readable signal that identifies the employee, and the scanner/reader of the boca de wolf vault is capable of reading another type of computer-readable signal. As another example, the OTA code is described here as being in QR code form. However, in one variation, the OTA code is either a different shape or displayed by the Agent's mobile device differently. Other forms of suitable computer readable codes may be employed. In another variation, instead of employing a barcode/QR code scanner/reader inside the mouth of wolf vault, a different type of scanner can be employed. For example, in one variation, the vault includes a camera along with suitable software, including vision-type software, to identify the scanned image (whether it is displayed by the Agent's mobile device as an OTA Code or something else scanned by the vault wolf, as discussed here) or extract data embedded or included within the item being scanned. Processing of the scanned image can be achieved within the vault or by the central server, or a different processing system, or collectively by one of these processing systems.

Overview of General Benefits and Advantages of the Invention

[0377] In addition to the benefits mentioned above (and some of these benefits are repeated below), the boca de lobo safes have a modular design and are configured to accommodate the specific needs of retailers or the collective needs of several retailers. The present invention even provides a level of future resistance to allow the deployment of newer technologies through defined interfaces (physical/electrical/logical). The cost of assembling a manhole vault of the present invention is lower than current systems that imply custom design to accommodate specific needs. The storm drain safes of the present invention are reconfigurable simply by replacing one component with another, without transferring the entire storm drain safe to the service location and, in most cases, without any need to move the storm drain safe. . Since the time and cost to move an installed safe is significant, the present invention advantageously allows storm vaults to be repaired, upgraded, emptied, and maintained with a minimum of disruption to retailers' operations. As explained in detail above, a vault that does not include bill validators (i.e., Brink's Box) can be reconfigured to include bill validators (i.e., convert to B-Safe) with a minimum of time and effort.

[0378] The manhole safes of the present invention also, advantageously, inventory their contents regularly and/or during specific steps in the various processes as described herein. In certain modalities, using Smart Bags that include RFID tags, the mouth of wolf safes are able to immediately identify, via RFID means, the Smart Bags that they have deposited and, additionally, are able to immediately identify the Smart Bags that they have removed from the chassis, whether authorized or not. Unauthorized removal of Smart Bags is detected (for example, when the Smart Bag is improperly removed through the bag deposit opening) and authorized removal of Smart Bags is detected (i.e., when the Agent properly empties the vault ). The RFID reader used inside the manhole safes of the present invention is capable of reading the RFID tags of all Smart Bags inside the chassis, regardless of the number inside the chassis, in just a few seconds. This advantageously enables the vaults to reinvent their contents at any time. Since the RFID antennas are inside the safe's chassis, the probability of the RFID reader unintentionally scanning the RFID tag outside the safe is extremely low.

[0379] The doors of the mouth of wolf safes of the present invention include a limited number of components, specifically, an opening for depositing bags, a digital lock and, in the case of the B-Safe, bill validators. In the other embodiments/variations described, only two additional components are included. It is appreciated that a warehouse includes, within the door, a significant number of components to enable the retailer to perform a number of activities and functions.

[0380] However, in the various embodiments described, the door does not include any selectable lock, no handle, and no physical secret system to unlock the door. The hinges are internal and designed so that the door can be removed from the vault chassis, as discussed here. The door can advantageously be replaced with another door in a relatively short period of time and without special tools. Furthermore, in other embodiments of the present invention, the manhole safe may include a door handle, a physical lock system, and/or external hinges, and such embodiments further include some, or all, of the new features described herein.

[0381] The tec shelf of the present invention advantageously contains most of the electronics. The tec shelf itself is a modular component of the boca de lobo safe and is easily and quickly replaceable, if necessary, without (any) significant disruption to the retailer's operations. A worker with little or no specialized knowledge of the manhole safe is able to replace a damaged tec shelf with a new or refurbished shelf fairly quickly. Tec shelves can be updated periodically quite easily and, again, with almost no disruption to the retailer's operations. The replacement of the tec shelf is also performed without accessing the contents of the mouth of the vault chassis, therefore offering even more additional security to its contents. The tec shelf employs a cabinet that, advantageously, does not interfere with communication between the manhole vault (via the tec shelf) and the central server during operation.

[0382] The manhole safe of the present invention does not include or require a keyboard or input panel. All or almost all communication between retailers, Agents and service personnel is via remote means such as connected smart devices, PCs and their mobile devices.

[0383] Due to the use of a modular design, and with each of the three main components weighing less than 150 lbs, the entire storm vault (in any configuration) can be sent to the retailer, in three separate packages, without the need to use a special freight carrier. Therefore, the components of the storm vault can be shipped via commercial carrier such as Fed Ex or United Parcel Service, and then service personnel can quickly assemble the three components and configure the storm vault within a period of time. relatively minimal. The door and frame on almost all commercial storm vaults are permanently attached. The present invention, however, provides multiple advantages with a detachable door and chassis.

[0384] The use of the culvert safes of the present invention can be done with a minimum of contact with the culvert safe. Likewise, the manhole safe can be emptied with minimal contact and, in some versions, without contact with the money.

[0385] Other benefits are described herein or would otherwise be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

[0386] The present invention employs several individual components that are well known in the art. For example, an RFID reader is well known. Another example, a note validator is well known. As yet another example, a digital lock is well known. Also, descriptions of the design and detailed functionality of various components are not provided in order not to obscure the discussion of the invention in this document, except when particularly necessary for understanding the present invention. Discussions of the construction and operation of certain types of manhole safes with some of the components discussed herein are found in US Pat. Nos. 5,695,038; 5,975,275; 5,944,163; 8,645,214;8,844,804; 9,495,705; 9,911,108, and US Patent Application Publication 2009/0006249; 2009/0222381; and 2018/0293649, all of which are assigned to the assignee of this application, and are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0387] The following table, which identifies reference numbers in the figures along with the names of the corresponding components, is provided merely for convenience, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. The names of various elements are selected for convenience and ease of reference.Table

[0388] Having described the present invention including various features and variations thereof, it is intended that the appended claims be interpreted as including the embodiments described herein, the alternatives mentioned above, and all their equivalences.

Claims (21)

1. BOCA DE LOBO MODULAR SAFE, characterized in that it comprises: -a chassis (100) including a set of walls, the set of walls defining an internal storage space; - a door (200) attached to a front of the chassis (100) and movable between open and closed positions, the door (200) including at least: - a controllable digital lock (220) adapted to, when locked, keep the door (200) in a closed and latched position relative to the chassis (100), and adapted to, when latched, allow the door (200) to be movable between open and closed positions; and - a lockable bag deposit opening (410) adapted to, when unlocked, allow a bag to be placed inside the bag deposit opening (410), and cause the bag within the bag deposit opening (410 ) falls into the internal storage space of the chassis (100); - a technology cabinet (300) coupled to the outside of the chassis (100), the technology cabinet (300) including at least: - one or more processors adapted to provide control data for the digital lock (220) and the opening of lockable bag storage (410) on the door (200), respectively, to control the digital lock (220) to unlock and lock, and to control the opening of the bag storage (410) to unlock and lock; and - a reader adapted to identify the bags placed inside the internal storage space of the chassis (100). 2. BOCA DE LOBO MODULAR SAFE, according to claim 1, characterized in that the reader in the technology cabinet (300) is an RFID reader; the chassis (100) includes, placed within the internal storage space, at least one RFID antenna; and the modular storm vault includes a set of cables extending between the RFID reader within the technology cabinet (300) and at least one RFID antenna within the chassis (100), the RFID reader being adapted for use in at least one RFID antenna for detecting identification codes (IDs) of RFID tags inside the bags that are placed inside the internal storage space of the chassis (100). 3. BOCA DE LOBO MODULAR SAFE according to claim 2, characterized in that an internal part of the chassis (100) includes electronic devices consisting of only one of at least one RFID antenna, cables and tags RFID of any bags placed within the internal storage space of the chassis (100). 4. BOCA DE LOBO MODULAR SAFE according to claim 1, characterized in that the technology cabinet (300) includes the reader adapted to detect a unique ID; and the processor is adapted to control the opening of the deposit bag (410) to unlock when the reader detects the unique identification code (ID) of a deposit bag that includes at least one item of value to be deposited within of the modular mouth of wolf safe. 5. BOCA DE LOBO MODULAR SAFE, according to claim 4, characterized in that the unique ID is a bar code or a QR code; and the deposit bag to be deposited inside the modular vault includes a barcode or QR code on the outside of the deposit bag, the barcode or QR code on the outside of the deposit bag representing the unique ID of the deposit bag. 6. BOCA DE LOBO MODULAR SAFE according to claim 4, characterized in that the reader is an RFID reader adapted to read the identification code (ID) of an RFID tag; and the deposit bag to be deposited inside the modular vault includes the RFID tag, whose ID represents the unique ID of the deposit bag. 7. BOCA DE LOBO MODULAR SAFE, according to claim 1, characterized in that the technology cabinet (300) includes the reader adapted to detect a unique ID, representing the identity of a person seeking access to the deposit opening of bags (410) from the mouth of wolf chest; the technology cabinet (300) adapted to control the bag deposit opening (410) to unlock when the reader detects the unique ID of the person who is authorized to access the bag deposit opening (410) of the mouth of wolf safe. 8. BOCA DE LOBO MODULAR SAFE, according to claim 7, characterized in that the unique ID detected is a code displayed on a person's badge or an ID from an RFID tag inside the badge. 9. BOCA DE LOBO MODULAR SAFE according to claim 1, characterized in that the technology cabinet (300) includes short-range communication equipment adapted to receive a request from a mobile device from the person seeking access to the opening for depositing bags (410) in the mouth of wolf safe and for receiving data from the mobile device identifying the current location of the mobile device; and the technology cabinet (300) is adapted to control the bag deposit opening (410) at the door (200) to unlock, when it is found that the person associated with the mobile device seeking access to the bag deposit opening (410 ) of the storm vault is authorized to access the bag deposit opening (410), and the mobile device is within a predetermined distance of the location of the storm vault. 10. BOCA DE LOBO MODULAR SAFE according to claim 1, characterized in that the technology cabinet (300) includes a box and radio frequency (RF) communication equipment placed inside the box that is adapted to communicate, wirelessly, with external devices, and the housing is made of a material that allows the passage of RF signals to/from the RF communications equipment. 11. MODULAR SAFE BOCA DE LOBO, according to claim 1, characterized in that the door (200) is a first modular door, and the modular safe mouth is configured to allow the first modular door to be replaced by a second modular door with different capacities without moving the modular storm vault from a current position. 12. MODULAR SAFE BOCA DE LOBO, according to claim 1, characterized in that the door (200) is a first modular door and the modular safe mouth is configured to allow the first modular door to be replaced by a second one modular door without moving the modular storm vault from a current position; wherein the second modular door includes a controllable digital lock (220) and a lockable bag deposit opening (410), which are the same as the controllable digital lock (220) and lockable bag deposit opening (410) of the first modular port, and the second modular port will also include a small form factor bill recycler. 13. BOCA DE LOBO MODULAR SAFE according to claim 1, characterized in that the door (200) comprises at least one pair of bill validators; the chassis (100) including the first and second removable boxes; the first box placed within the internal storage space of the chassis (100) and below the position of the bag deposit opening (410) of the door (200), and adapted to catch the bags falling from the bag deposit opening (410) ) into the internal storage space of the chassis (100); the second box placed within the internal storage space of the chassis (100) and below the positions of the bill validators, and adapted to capture bills passing through the bill validators. 14. BOCA DE LOBO MODULAR SAFE, according to claim 13, characterized in that none of the bill validators include or use a cartridge designed to contain a pre-established number of bills that have passed through one of the bill validators. 15. BOCA DE LOBO MODULAR SAFE, according to claim 1, characterized in that the technology cabinet (300) is adapted to be completely removable from the chassis (100) without the need to open the door (200) or access the internal chassis storage space (100). 16. BOCA DE LOBO MODULAR SAFE, according to claim 15, characterized in that the technology cabinet (300) is removablely coupled to the top of the chassis (100) through at least one mounting rail, the mounting rail adapted to: - allow the technology cabinet (300), when not attached to the chassis (100), to be slidable in relation to the position of the chassis (100); and - allowing the technology cabinet (300) to be fully removable from the mounting rail, when the mounting rail is at or near its full extent. 17. BOCA DE LOBO MODULAR SAFE, according to claim 1, characterized in that the technology cabinet (300) includes a memory having a program stored in it that, when executed, causes at least one of the one or more processors perform an autodetection process; the auto-detection process comprising: - communicating with each functional device placed within the door (200) to ascertain identities of all functional devices within the door (200); - communicating with a central server, via communication equipment within the technology cabinet (300), the verified identities of all functional devices within the port (200); and - receiving, by the central server, via communication equipment within the technology cabinet (300), a program code adapted to enable the technology cabinet (300) to control each functional device within the port (200). 18. BOCA DE LOBO MODULAR SAFE, according to claim 17, characterized in that the technology cabinet (300) is pre-programmed, before assembly inside the modular safe, to perform the self-detection process through a initial installation inside the modular mouth of wolf vault. 19. MODULAR SAFE BOCA DE LOBO, according to claim 17, characterized in that the modular safe boca de lobo is configured to be modified by replacing the door (200) with a new door, the new door including a controllable digital lock (220) and at least one additional functional device; wherein the technology cabinet (300) is adapted to perform the auto-detection process after the port (200) is replaced by the new port, so as to identify that all functional devices within the new port are discovered and communicated to the central server, and the technology cabinet (300) receives a program code that allows the technology cabinet (300) to control each functional device within the new port. 20. BOCA DE LOBO MODULAR SAFE, according to claim 1, characterized in that the technology cabinet (300) includes: - Global Positioning System (GPS) functionality adapted to determine the location of the technology cabinet (300) ; and - communication equipment adapted to transmit the found location of the technology cabinet (300) to a central server to provide the current location of the modular storm vault. 21. BOCA DE LOBO MODULAR SAFE, according to claim 1, characterized in that the technology cabinet (300) includes short-range communication equipment adapted to communicate with the mobile device of the person authorized to deposit in the safe boca de lobo, receive data from, and transmit data to the mobile device relating to the deposit to be made or that has already been made into the boca de lobo safe, and the data transmitted to the mobile device is sent for the purpose of mobile device transmitting the data to a central processor, to create a deposit record corresponding to the transmitted data, the boca de lobo safe not having the ability to communicate with the central server via radio frequency communication protocol (