CN101715590A - Method and apparatus for sorting articles - Google Patents

Abstract

A method of sorting a plurality of articles is disclosed, and an apparatus for carrying out the method. The method comprises the steps of detecting one or more characteristics of each article; sorting any articles whose detected characteristics meet a first set of predetermined criteria to a first destination; sorting any other articles to a second destination; determining both whether any of the articles sorted to the second destination have detected characteristics which meet a second set of predetermined criteria and whether any of the articles sorted to the second destination have detected characteristics which do not meet a second set of predetermined criteria; the second destination contains one or more articles with detected characteristics that meet the second set of predetermined criteria and one or more articles with detected characteristics that do not meet the second set of predetermined criteria, as determined in the previous step, if sorting any articles from the second destination whose detected characteristics meet the second set of predetermined criteria to a third destination; and sorting any other articles from the second destination to a fourth destination.

Description

The method and apparatus that is used for sorting articles

Technical field

The present invention relates to be used for the method for sorting articles, and the device that is used to realize this method.Disclosed technology and equipment is particularly suited for the valuables of classifying, and for example except other documents such as security, token, check etc., being particularly suited for classifying comprises the currency of banknote and coin.The present invention will mainly be relevant to it and use the situation of banknote to be described thus, and what it should be understood that is that this method and device are suitable for other article of classifying equally.

Background technology

Known multiple assortment of bank note device comprises such as the many pocket types sorter described in US-A-5394992.This sorter has two bags---the banknote that has been classified can be exported to wherein.Wad to be classified is inputed to as in the lower device, and this device uses the feature of every banknote of sensor, and exports described banknote in the sack one or another based on the feature that is detected.By this way, the banknote with special characteristic (for example, incorrect orientation, different denominations etc.) that sensor can be discerned separates with other banknotes in folded.

This pair of pocket type sorting machine has following inherence restriction, and promptly they can only be divided into wad two groups.Owing to, need to use sorter (that is, every kind " type " bag) with output bag more than two for the banknote of two or more " types " being divided into for single group folded from mixing.This has increased sizable complexity and cost for this device.And the number of constructable bag is actually by size factor and limitation of the technology and limits in individual machine.

WO 01/99060-A1 discloses and a kind ofly has been suitable for classifying and handles two embodiments such as the device of the paper material of banknote.First embodiment except have one " shredder " output, also have five output destinations, and according to preassigned with assortment of bank note to these destinations.Second embodiment comprises a kind of sorter that three output destinations add the minification of one " shredder " output again that has.The sorting technique that is similar to first embodiment can be used the device of second embodiment.These two embodiments all need output bag more than two, to sort out the banknote of two or more " types " from a mixing is folded.

When the device of arbitrary embodiment of using WO 01/99060-A1, the banknote that existence will be classified to specific output destination is the option of feeding again.This method allows to reappraise some wad of bills and application class standard again.This may be with for the first time " by " time correctly classified by the banknote of incorrect classification.Yet the process that is used for feeding again operation is complicated, and can be only for the small size increase of classification accuracy, the processing time of double increase device on efficient.

DE 10117822-A1 discloses the device of the another kind of banknote that is used to classify.This device comprises three output destinations, and wherein the banknote input position can be used as one of output destination.The device of the disclosure text can be suitable for carrying out the denomination classification with plural denomination or " type ".This is by using three output destinations possibilities that become.The disclosure text has instructed one or more outputs destination to be configured to be used for the destination of the banknote of more than a kind of denomination or " type ".After first classification, the indication operator will be present in the wad of bills feeding again in one of these destinations then, be divided into the folded of a plurality of unique denominations so that further will fold.In case banknote by feeding again, just detects their feature once more, and use one group of new criteria for classification and one of go in three output destinations with the banknote branch of feeding again.Although this device allows the banknote of classification two or more " types ", its needs three output destinations, and the time span that is used to carry out two or three above denomination or classification of type on efficient be a subseries " by " twice.

WO 02/27670-A1 discloses a kind of paper money processing machine that is used to import feeding banknote and output feeding banknote.This machine is suitable for handling a large amount of banknotes with various different denominations, so that management is deposited and withdrawn the money.This machine comprises a plurality of proof boxs (securecassettes) that are positioned at machine, and the banknote of special denomination will be classified to these proof boxs.When the operator requires to withdraw the money, can then from these casees, take out classification banknote with appointment denomination.

EP1643462-A2 also discloses a kind of a plurality of similar currency type devices that are suitable for storing the case of the banknote that is classified according to a plurality of standards that have.Particularly, EP1643462-A2 discloses a kind of display device that can make the operator observe the content of each output destination.In above-mentioned two open texts, when banknote arrives the storage box one from the input destination, can use multiple different criteria for classification.Yet the device of above-mentioned two patent disclosure texts all discloses and has used more than two the output destination banknote of classifying.In addition, these two devices all are bulky and need complicated control device so that complicated classification feature to be provided.The problem that this complex appts exists is, need have comprehensively device and sorting technique to understand in depth.These machines are suitable for handling a large amount of banknotes, and the required time of little folded banknote that therefore is used to classify is longer relatively.Because it inner carries out a plurality of classification, also occur error most probably in addition, thereby also be hard to understand for the operator.

Therefore, need a kind of for the operator clear and concise and being used to of can finishing at short notice the classify method of valuable article.And, also need a kind of valuable article that are suitable for classifying efficiently to improve the device of the treatment capacity in various classification environment.

Summary of the invention

According to a first aspect of the invention, a kind of method of using sorting device with a plurality of taxonomy of goods comprises:

A) detect one or more features of each article;

B) its detected characteristics is met any taxonomy of goods to the first destination of first group of preassigned;

C) with any other taxonomy of goods to the second destination;

D) determine whether to exist following two kinds of situations, whether any article that promptly are classified to second destination have the detected characteristics that meets second group of preassigned, and whether any article that are classified to second destination have the detected characteristics that does not meet second group of preassigned;

E) if as determined in the step d), second destination comprises the one or more article with the detected characteristics that meets second group of preassigned, and comprise one or more article, then the detected characteristics of second destination is met any article branch to the three destinations of second group of preassigned with the detected characteristics that does not meet second group of preassigned; And

F) any other article in second destination are divided to the 4th destination.

By according to first standard and second standard sorting articles by this way, become and to use two pocket type (first and second " destination ") sorters that article are divided at least three types: first kind of result who is output as step (b), second kind in step (e), the third is in step (f).These kinds can be represented any feature of article.For example, whether the opinion with banknote is true according to the relevance grade grade (that is, the situation of banknote) of banknote and/or banknote, wad can be divided into different orientations, currency, denomination etc.

In addition, this method provides a kind of efficient apparatus with a plurality of taxonomy of goods, because step (d) is used the feature of each article that detects in step a), determine whether second destination comprises the mixing of banknote, if and find to exist and mix, just only carry out second classification that is classified to the 3rd destination and the 4th destination.Can avoid increasing by the second unnecessary classification of efficient thus.Can be provided to also show that based on step (d) operator second destination does not comprise the indication of document potpourri, i.e. the wad of bills of feeding only comprises two kinds " types ", and notifying does not thus need further assortment of bank note in second destination.When handling high throughput, the determining of step (d) can be saved the plenty of time and greatly boost productivity.In the prior art, can't determine to export the mixing that whether comprises banknote in the destination, thereby, also need to carry out second classification usually even second destination only comprises the banknote of a kind of " type ".Therefore method of the present invention has prevented this " useless classification ".

In specific embodiments, sorting device only comprises two output destinations, and wherein the 3rd destination is in first or second destination one, and the 4th destination is another in first or second destination.This can make carries out this method on two pocket type sorters, divide the needs of time-like for extra output destination thereby reduce the complexity of working as the execution prior art.

Preferably, described article are the paper documents such as banknote.Yet as mentioned above, this method can be applied to any article that need classification.

In specific embodiments, first destination is identical with the 3rd destination, and one of sorter output bag both can be used as first destination thus, also can be used as the 3rd destination.In alternate embodiment, (that is, if those article of being told in second classification will be assigned to other places) also can use different destinations.In other embodiments, second destination is identical with the 4th destination.Thus, method of the present invention can make two fixedly one or more the 3rd and/or the 4th " virtual (virtual) " destination or " bags " that are used as in destination or " bag ", for example first destination can be used as the 3rd " virtual " destination, and second destination can be used as the 4th " virtual " destination.Next this allow that the sorting machine of bag more than two will be arranged at two pocket type sorter patrix draw ups.Further possible is, repeats the selected number of times of this method and the additional category that is classified to n and/or (n+1) individual destination is provided.This has can simulate the effect of the destination of unlimited number on two pocket type sorters.

In specific embodiments, second group of preassigned is equal to first group of preassigned.If the 3rd destination and the 4th destination also equal first destination and second destination respectively, so this method allow based on the single classification of first group of preassigned with comprise repeatedly " by ", wherein being divided can be by feeding again to the article of second/the 4th destination, and can use first group of standard again.

Preferably, the detected characteristics of described article comprises one or more in authenticity, Currency Type, denomination, situation and the orientation, but also can replace using by user or any feature of installing detectable article.

In a concrete preferred embodiment, first group of preassigned is that article are true and its situation is suitable for utilizing again.Be all article true and that be suitable for using by telling for the first time those, these article can be discharged and be sent to recycle rapidly and reliably.And in many cases, these article form the major part of many article to be classified, and by it is separated for the first time, and needs be used to the to classify work of remaining article is minimized.

Preferably, second group of preassigned is that article are true.This has finished the classification that genuine but inapplicable banknote is distinguished from non-genuine notes (that is, incorrect currency, foreign article or fakement).

This standard can comprise one or more following requirements, and promptly the feature that is detected must meet so that described article are considered to " really " and/or " being suitable for ".The a series of threshold values that this measurement parameter that may be predetermined to be article must meet or the form of other restrictions, for example, optical signature is such as UV reflectivity, fluorescence, opacity, and/or affirmation exists some security feature of expection, for example magnetic characteristic, security printing etc. on each article.

In some embodiments, second group of standard can be applied to the banknote in second destination, and described article further do not analyzed (that is, not detecting their feature once more), thereby quickens second classification.This can be by following realization, i.e. registration is classified to the feature of each article of second destination, and uses this information to come sorting articles according to second standard.Alternatively, in some cases preferably, step (e) comprises the one or more features that detect each article in second destination.These features can be identical or inequality with the feature that detected in the step (a).

In some concrete embodiment preferred, step (e) and (f) be on the article of advancing, to carry out with the speed that is different from step (a)～(c).Second the classification can be performed be faster or slower than first the classification.For example, need careful all inapplicable banknotes of handling if first classification has been removed, it may be favourable faster handling at second fen time-like.If knownly still have an inapplicable banknote, it may be favourable then handling more slowly at second fen time-like, because by reducing gait of march, can prevent the further damage of banknote and reduces and stop up risk.And, handle the detection that can improve more slowly to the feature of article.For example, by making banknote, can realize better pattern identification slowlyer by sensor array.Speed when being imported into device by changing the gait of march that article are transmitted, perhaps changing article can be adjusted the speed of article.

Preferably, the step of this method (b) comprises that demonstration is relevant to the data of the article in first destination.Specific embodiment comprises the total value that shows those article in first destination, the perhaps number of those article.This can make user's rapid evaluation classification success and shown information is passed to the recirculator with sorting articles.

In alternate embodiment, in case detect the first classification termination incident, just storage is relevant to the data of the banknote feature of first classification and/or detection---be worth such as number or indivedual banknote.This first classification termination incident can comprise, inter alia, receives user's input (for example, by a button) or through a predetermined amount of time (for example, 30 seconds).Next described data can be displayed to the user when this method finishes, and can be included in the total number and/or the total value of all banknotes in first destination.After last step of this method,, also can store the data that are relevant to second classification in case detect the second classification termination incident.This second classification termination incident can be the form that is similar to the first classification termination incident.Equally, after method is finished, also can give the user with this data presentation.These data can comprise the information about the banknote in the 3rd destination and the 4th destination, that is, and and number or total value.

Advantageously, if having determined in step (d) that all are divided to the article of second destination all meets second group of preassigned, next this step can further comprise and gives the user with its indication.This makes and it is evident that for the user, does not need execution in step (e) and (f) under specific circumstances.Preferably, described indication comprises that demonstration is relevant to the data of the article in second destination, such as total value or number.

In specific advantageous embodiment, have precedence over step (d), for a plurality of article repeated execution of steps second time (a) to (c).In some cases, these second batch of article comprises the article of branch to the second destination.This therein only the fraction article not meet in the processing of folding of first group of standard (that is, by is divided to second destination) be favourable.Before those do not meet the article of first standard according to second criteria classification, can be according to the described many batches of article of first criteria classification.This can greatly increase overall process speed.This method also applicable to, when detecting first classification during End Event, beginning execution in step (d).

In certain preferred embodiment, select first group of preassigned according to those detected characteristics of first article that will be classified, make first article that will be classified meet first group of preassigned.Because standard can be selected automatically, this allows to start the machine fast.

More preferably, select second group of preassigned, make first article that are classified in second destination meet second group of preassigned according to those detected characteristics of first article that will be classified that come from second destination.

Preferably, described method further comprises and determines whether that each article all meets the 3rd group of preassigned, and whether has any article that meet the 3rd group of standard, and this situation is indicated to the user.This method can be used to find fast the article of particular type thus, perhaps even find Individual Items (for example, if it is identified with sequence number or similar mark).Advantageously, described indication is indicated to the user by the indicator that is adjacent to following sack, and described sack is described or each meets the article of the 3rd group of preassigned with the sack that is classified to.It is fully clear that this makes the described position that is identified article of discovery more say for the user, so that obtain fast.

In specific embodiments, if the detected characteristics of any meets the 3rd group of preassigned in the described article, just stop this method.This has guaranteed operator's attention and has allowed to remove easily article.Preferably, the 3rd group of preassigned and first group of preassigned and second group of preassigned are mutual exclusions.More preferably, the 3rd group of preassigned is that described article are doubtful fakement.

In specific embodiments, step (b) comprises that storage is relevant to the information of the article that are classified to first destination; And wherein step (e) comprises, under the situation of classifying, use is relevant to the information of any other article from the article of the feeding again that is classified to first destination, is updated in canned data in the step (b).

By the banknote feeding again that will be classified to second destination, and repeating step b) and c), can from second destination, find have the feature that meets first group of preassigned but for the first time by the time article that are not classified out.For example, when passing through for the first time, two banknotes genuine, that be suitable for may be overlapping.This can be detected as " two " and banknote will reach second destination.When unaccepted banknote carries out passing through the second time before using, thereby possible banknote can be not overlapping by different feedings; Therefore when passing through for the second time, banknote will be added into the classification banknote that has been present in first destination.Again feeding and reclassify the banknote that comes from second destination and can be repeated any number of times.

In an alternate embodiment, step (b) is included in when detecting the first classification End Event, and just storage is relevant to first group of information of the article that are classified to first destination; And step (f) is included in when detecting the second classification End Event, and just storage is relevant to second group of information of any article that are classified to the first, second, third and the 4th destination.

As previously mentioned, these classification End Events can receive user's input or take place after through the setting-up time section.Perhaps, first group of information and second group of information can be shown to the user via printout or via the display method that is connected to the document counter.Described information also can be displayed on the display of the computing machine that links to each other with counter.

Described method embodiment before being similar to, described method also can be included in to carry out in first or second assorting process repeatedly to be passed through.In second classification, comprise that step e) arrives f), the user also can produce " repetition " instruction of resetting second group of information, and allows repeating step e once more) and f).As previously mentioned, in preferred embodiments, first destination is identical with the 3rd destination, and second destination is identical with the 4th destination.

The present invention also provides:

The input equipment that is used for equipment that article are fed to;

Two or more export the destination;

One commutator system, it can one of be selected the article commutation to exporting in the destination;

One or more sensors, it is used to detect the one or more features from each article of input equipment feeding; And

Controller, it operationally is attached to commutator system and one or more sensor;

Its middle controller comprises:

First module, its one or more features that are suitable for detecting based on one or more sensor determine whether article meet first group of preassigned, if and it meets first group of standard, just operate commutator system with this taxonomy of goods to the first output destination; If it does not meet first group of standard, then with this taxonomy of goods to the second output destination; And

Second module, it is suitable for:

Based on one or more features that one or more sensor detected, determine to meet the number of the article that are classified to second destination of second group of preassigned, and, determine not meet the number of the article that are classified to second destination of second group of preassigned based on one or more features that one or more sensor detected;

Wherein second module is further adapted for, and twice definite result based on second module is carried out disposes described sorting device.

A kind of sorting device that is configured as mentioned above allows the content configuration sorting device based on second destination; For example, second module exportable one following picture shows that second destination comprises the potpourri of banknote or only comprises one type banknote, and next this will allow control system to export an indicator that is suitable for to the operator of equipment.The information that this device utilizes one or more sensor to write down produces the additional data that can be used to improve sorting device efficient.

In specific embodiments, second module is suitable for, if the result who performed is twice determined by second module is a non-zero, just changes the state of sorting device; That is, second module determines to exist the potpourri of banknote in second destination.In another embodiment of the present invention, controller further comprises three module, if this three module is configured to all non-zeros of twice performed definite result of second module, just move commutator system, wherein comprise by three module operation commutator, if article meet second group of standard of the one or more features that detect based on one or more sensor, just these article are classified to the 3rd output destination from the second output destination, if and article do not meet second group of standard of the one or more features that detect based on one or more sensor, just these article are classified to the 4th output destination from the second output destination.Thus, can be used to, carry out assorting process in the mode that did not occur in the prior art by the excessive data that controller module produced.

Description of drawings

Now with reference to accompanying drawing the present invention is described, in the accompanying drawings:

Fig. 1 diagram shows the two pocket type sorters that use in embodiments of the invention;

Fig. 2 shows a process flow diagram, this flowchart text the step that in first embodiment of the present invention, relates to;

Fig. 3 shows one and continues process flow diagram, this continuations flowchart text according to can the be had ready conditions additional step of execution of first embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 4 shows a process flow diagram, this flowchart text the step that in second embodiment of the present invention, relates to;

Fig. 5 shows a process flow diagram, this flowchart text the step that in the 3rd embodiment of the present invention, relates to;

Fig. 6 shows one and continues process flow diagram, this flowchart text the additional step that can be performed according to the 3rd embodiment;

Fig. 7 A～7K shows the graphic user interface that shows a work embodiment who uses method execution of the present invention; And

Fig. 8 A～8D shows by the exemplary print result that printing device produced who is connected to the two pocket type sorters shown in Fig. 1.

Embodiment

An embodiment who relates to the assortment of bank note requirement of two or more banknotes " type ", be by European re-circulation means (European Recycling Framework, ERF)---be called as banknote re-circulation means (Banknote Recycling Framework sometimes, BRF)---set, the credit agency in described organization management Europe and other professional cash management persons' counterfeit money detect and the relevance grade classification.This embodiment requires to discern following banknote:

The document that " A "-(i) unrecognized to be Euro; And

(ii) doubtful forgery Euro;

" B1 "-genuine and " being suitable for " Euro; And

" B2 "-genuine but " inapplicable " Euro;

Wherein " be suitable for " and " inapplicable " refers to the banknote that meets the predetermined quality standard respectively, and the banknote that does not meet described standard.

In traditional assorting process, the machine that needs is had more than two bag (at least two bags add a substandard products bag) is carried out this process, though this machine can banknote once by the time carry out this process.

With reference to Fig. 1, be suitable for two pocket type sorters 1 that the present invention uses except comprising user interface 6, also comprise the input storehouse 2 that is used for the feeding banknote and two output bag P1 and P2.Described two output bags are provided respectively with optional value indicator V1 and V2.And, be used to indication such as the alert device of the LED 7 that is close to bag P2 and in bag P2, have specific banknote---for example doubtful forgery Euro.Alternatively, be close to a bag P1 one similar LED is provided, be relevant to the information of the content of bag P1 with reception and registration.

By a traditional transmission system banknote is transmitted between described parts, described transmission system is not described further at this.Be fed to after the device 1, the feature of every banknote is detected by following one or more sensors 3, and described sensor can comprise such as optical sensors such as IR detecting device, UV monitor, fluorescence detector, magnetic detector, vision facilitiess.The result is output to following controller 4, and this controller control commutator 5 is directed to output P1 or output P2 with every banknote.Controller 4 can comprise the one or more modules that are suitable for carrying out above-mentioned sorting technique.

Can operate described machine and be used to carry out two kinds of classification described in the process flow diagram of Fig. 2 and Fig. 3.The process of described operation and any other relevant information can be instructed to the user via user interface 6.First embodiment of the present invention begins the method from Fig. 2.When receiving wad, this process begins (step S200).In step S05, detect the feature (authenticity and the situation that comprise banknote at least) of every banknote then.To meet following banknote and be regarded as very and assortment of bank note to the first destination of the standard that is suitable for using, bag P1 (step S210).Every other banknote is commutated to second destination bag P2 (step S220).First method divides to go into bag P1 with B1 class (genuine, suitable banknote) thus; Divide to go into bag P2 with B2 class (genuine, inapplicable banknote) and category-A (counterfeit money that can't discern or doubtful).

Preferably, the denomination indicator V1 of bag P1 will indicate about the calculating value (step S215) of test for true and suitable B1 class banknote, and/or will show number by V1.In this process, user interface 6 can show that " BRF FIT " is to inform the user with current classification.

In step S225, this process determine whether all banknotes that are divided into the second destination P2 all be identical " type " (promptly, whether divided any article to have the detected characteristics that meets a certain preassigned group, and whether divided any article to have the detected characteristics that does not meet a certain preassigned group) to second destination to second destination.If system has determined that all are divided to the banknote of P2 and has all met second standard (that is, not having " mixing " paper money) that then this process can finish at step S240.Thereby this has prevented to carry out the second unnecessary classification that increases efficient.Also can use the detected characteristics of every banknote of step S205 place record to carry out this decision, show that needs further detect to determine whether bag P2 comprises the step S225 of dissimilar mixing.In this case, preferably,, be worth value or number (step S30) that display V2 just is presented at banknote among bag P2 if determined only to comprise B2 class banknote among the bag P2.

When finding in bag P2, to have other banknotes (such as the category-A banknote) (, at least one that is classified in the article of second destination has the detected characteristics that meets second group of preassigned, and at least one that is classified in the article of second destination has the detected characteristics that does not meet second group of preassigned---the article of two kinds of differences " kind ") and, use following process: will be worth indicator V2 zero clearing or not show that described display screen need reclassify the banknote among the bag P2 to force; And if detected (ii) class banknote of at least one A, " doubtful counterfeit money " alarm 7 (step S235) would just be opened.

After finishing first classification, banknote among the bag P1 can be recycled (promptly, be back to money flow), and following situation can take place the banknote of bag among the P2: indicator P2 goes up and shows under the situation about being worth (promptly therein, output P2 only comprises qualified B2 class banknote), the banknote among the bag P2 can be returned to service centre or bank (shown in step S240); Do not show therein under the situation of any value that the banknote among the bag P2 can use the second following classification to be re-classified as category-A and category-B (as shown in Figure 3); Perhaps the banknote of bag among the P2 can be inserted into for the second time in the machine with second time of carrying out first classification " by ".To be relevant to second embodiment and describe this process in further detail.

If the potpourri with various banknotes in first classification is classified to second destination, this process moves to second classification of step S300 place beginning among Fig. 3 usually.Banknote among second bag P2 can be moved out of and be re-inserted in the device via input end, perhaps can directly reenter system from P2.Optionally, can in step S305, detect the feature that comes from the banknote among the P2.Yet, also can reuse the result of the EARLY RECOGNITION of in step S2, carrying out, as long as preserve the record that shows about the result of every banknote.In step S310, with all are considered to genuine assortment of bank note to P1 among the P2, other be classified to P2 (step S320).Thus, second process divides to go into bag P1 with B2 class banknote (really, the banknote of " inapplicable "), if wherein any B1 class banknote for the first time by the time from wad of bills, do not told, any B1 class banknote that then will be left (genuine, " being suitable for " banknote) moves into a bag P1 with inapplicable banknote; And category-A banknote (Unidentified or doubtful counterfeit money) is moved into bag P2.

Preferably, the value indicator V1 of bag P1 will show counted be the value (step S315) of genuine B2 class banknote, perhaps number.The value indicator V2 of bag P2 will not show any value usually, because bag P2 only comprises the category-A banknote.User interface 6 shows that usually " UNFIT " is to identify second classification.

Typically, the bag P2 can comprise A (i) class banknote, for example, owing to following reason unrecognized for Euro banknote: banknote is the part xenocurrency; Banknote comprises the non-banknote such as paper in authority, check, security, the notepad etc.; Perhaps banknote is seriously damaged or is destroyed.

In bag P2, comprise A (ii) the doubtful counterfeit money of class (Euro) few situation under (in step S305, being detected), alarm 7 will be opened (step S325) once more, require operator's manual identification and remove doubtful forgery Euro (promptly, the outward appearance that all banknotes among the P2 all have Euro), it is paid national official (for example, police office) according to national legislation.

Next this process can finish in step S330.In other embodiments, repeat step S8, S9 at least, can carry out the 3rd, the 4th and subsequently classification for the banknote that exports P2 to by use be used to classify any applied code of banknote.

Although with reference to banknote re-circulation means standard to describe this first embodiment of the present invention, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that and also can use a large amount of various other standards defined by the user banknote of classifying.For example, replace to detect banknote and whether be " being suitable for " or " inapplicable ", device can be according to denomination (that is, 5 Euros or 10 Euros), but perhaps based on the standard of any other measurement features of valuable article with assortment of bank note.

The advantage of the two pocket type processes that proposed

Twice assorting process that is proposed makes can use two pocket type sorters except discerning non-genuine article coin or counterfeit money, also can distinguish suitable and inapplicable banknote.Said process is especially favourable, because: 1) operator can unexpected " forgetting " not carry out the relevance grade classification, is used for recycle immediately because " the good banknote " of all B1 classes all will enter a bag P1 in first classification (" ATM FIT "); 2) will impel the operator to use second classification (" UNFIT ") that banknote is reclassified to the removing that is worth indicator V2, so that the valuable but inapplicable banknote of B2 class is separated from the valueless banknote of category-A; And 3) be used to handle bigger folded, the off standard in the bag 2 can be in first classification accumulation and in single second classification processed amounting to 2 times.

For example: if machine once can be handled 100 banknotes, 1000 banknotes during the client is folded will need 100 banknotes of each feeding to repeat 10 times first classification, and only one time second classification is with the bag P2 banknote of handling all off standards (for example, 80 banknotes of 7% " B1 " banknote and 1% " A " banknote are drawn together in stacked package described herein): promptly, have 11 subseries altogether.This is equivalent to 2 * 10 times 100 banknotes to be divided into first " authenticity " classification and carries out second " relevance grade " classification then, rather than following first " ATM FIT " classification carrying out then, second " UNFIT " that carry out classifies: promptly, use traditional art methods to carry out and have 20 subseries altogether (after first classification, to only tell 10 banknotes, remaining 990 banknotes are to be identified, also require 10 subseries).By carrying out above-mentioned concrete classification, thus but accelerator.

Yet in other cases, the standard of selecting to substitute may be favourable.For example, first standard can be " banknote is for true " simply, and second standard is " banknote is suitable for utilizing again ".By this way, the less feature of needs assessment banknote in first classification, however in second classification, will still need to gather the relevance grade feature.

Alternatively, (for example be set to first group of preassigned if be used in second second group of preassigned of classifying upward use, really, the banknote of Shi Yonging), second classification will become to be passed through the second time of first classification, allow two pocket type sorters handle once more for the first time by the time not by the banknote that accurately detects or discern.

In case carried out above-mentioned two kinds of classification, can carry out the one or many classification again for the article that are classified to the 4th destination, from other the unidentified document such as xenocurrency so that counterfeit money is distinguished.

In a word, this makes can realize effectively also carrying out reliably four classes classification (that be suitable for, inapplicable, Unidentified and doubtful counterfeit money) on two pocket type machines, this process can further be improved by the following method, if promptly it comprises a class banknote and just only shows on bag and be worth, and if in bag, comprise doubtful counterfeit money and just provide indication to the operator.

In preferred embodiments, first classification is used to classify between " really, being suitable for " banknote and " off standard (offsort) " banknote.If " off standard " banknote only comprises " genuine, inapplicable " banknote, just show to be worth and to finish this process.

If first " off standard " ' other ' be to mix banknote, then carry out second classification between value of true paper money and ' banknote outside waiting ', to classify.Usually, ' genuine notes ' in second classification can all be ' genuine, inapplicable ', if but ' genuine, be suitable for ' banknote is unrecognized and only be identified in second classification in first classification, next just this banknote is added into any " genuine, inapplicable " banknote.

' off standard ' of second classification will only comprise unrecognized banknote and counterfeit money usually, and these two kinds of banknotes need manual classification.In order to be reduced in the manual classification risk of counterfeit money not to be noted, when first classification finishes and/or second classification when finishing, machine will indicate whether there is doubtful counterfeit money in off standard.

The variant of first embodiment

It only is exemplary should understanding above-mentioned first embodiment, and may be implemented in a variety of ways this method, described mode include but not limited to following any:

1) if " off standard " (content of second bag P2 or the second or the 4th destination) only is at least a concrete kind, with regard to the described operator of alarm;

2) system of basis (1) is if wherein " off standard " only comprises " genuine, inapplicable ", with regard to the described operator of alarm;

3) system of basis (1), if wherein " off standard " only comprises " genuine, suitable ", with regard to the described operator of alarm.

4) according to the system of (2) or (3), wherein come the described operator of alarm by value and/or the number that is presented at the article in the off standard.

5) system of following basis (1), (2), (3) or (4) wherein exists than the more class categories in sack/destination.

6) system of following basis (5) wherein uses two pocket type machines to carry out the classification of three kinds or four kinds modes.

7) a kind of disposal route, be included between a classification and the off standard and classify, in second classification, the first classification off standard is classified then, make that findable any article all are placed in the class categories of second classification in the class categories of first classification.

8) system of following basis (7), article described herein are document and especially banknote.

9) if in off standard, comprise doubtful fakement, with regard to the alert action person.

10) system of following basis (9) by means of the red LED adjacent to the bag that comprises doubtful fakement, carries out alarm herein.

11) a kind of following method, it is continuous two-way classification between a classification and off standard, only comprises a classification until described off standard, perhaps will treat two classifications of manual separation.

12) system of following basis (11) is herein in response to being seen first described classification of banknote dynamic assignment.

13) a kind of following method, it determines the composition in the off standard, and in response to this, is chosen in the classification of classifying in the ensuing classification.

14) a kind of following method, it determines the composition in the off standard, and alert action person or external system.

15) a kind of following disposal route, be included between a classification and the off standard and classify, in second classification, the first classification off standard is classified then, relevance grade for second classification is used different threshold values, make that when in second classification, handling first the off standard in classifying unlikely is classified as is classified in first class categories.

16) method of following basis (15), article are documents herein, especially banknote.

17) method of following basis (16), wherein in second classification critical in, banknote is divided into current classification, but can any other article that find put into off standard in the class categories of first classification.

18) system of following basis (1)～(17) when running into a particular category, just stops to handle herein.

19) system of following basis (18), particular category described herein is doubtful fakement.

20) system of following basis (18), particular category described herein run into unexpected genuine notes type in second classification.

21) known sequence of identification result (examination criteria) in a kind of use first classification and banknote is ensuing (second/the 3rd ...) method of classify in the assorting process (separation).

22) system of following basis (21), first classification is herein carried out between " really " and " off standard ", and second classification separates " really " between " being suitable for " and " inapplicable ".

23) system of following basis (21) or (22), this sentences than the higher or lower speed of classification before and carries out ensuing classification.

24) system of any in following basis (1)～(23) when finding a doubtful fakement, catches an image herein.

Also imagined following substituting about first embodiment:

First is sorted between ' genuine, inapplicable ' and ' off standard '.' really ' in common second classification will be ' genuine, suitable ' all, if but ' genuine, inapplicable ' banknote is unrecognized and only be identified in first classification, then it is added into any ' genuine, be suitable for ' banknote in second classification.

As for preferred embodiment, second classification is the classification between ' genuine, inapplicable ' and ' off standard '.If off standard only is one type a banknote, then shows this classification, thereby can finish this process to the operator.

If after second classification, mix inapplicable banknote and suitable banknote mixes, then show the quantity and the character of this potpourri to operator or external system, for example 94 suitable, 5 critical (borderline), 1 inapplicable.

Relevance grade for second classification is used different threshold values, make when handling in second classification, and first the off standard in classifying is less may to be divided into and to be classified in first class categories.

Arbitrary said method, but when running into, stop to handle once doubtful counterfeit money.

Arbitrary said method, but processing when in second classification, running into, stopped once unexpected genuine notes fare ticket type type.

The identification result in use first classification and the known sequence of banknote are classified in the classification in the ensuing second time (for the third time) (separation).When first classification does not have misfeed, this has second classification is carried out in permission with more speed advantage.This has also been avoided the complex situations of being classified by difference at second fen critical relevance grade banknote of time-like.

This embodiment can be classified between genuine notes and off standard at first fen time-like, and at second fen time-like genuine notes is separated between suitable and inapplicable.

Except other, can than low velocity handle document, can be on another machine, can obtain the image of some or all documents or can obtain serial number carrying out the 3rd classification, rather than the second classification off standard is made manual classification.

Other embodiments of the present invention

Second embodiment of the present invention shown in Figure 4.Method shown here also uses the two pocket type sorters 1 shown in Fig. 1 to carry out.As previously mentioned, one folded banknote to be classified is placed on the device, and at step S405 place at step S400, with described banknote feeding by device with for example authenticity of detection banknote and the feature of relevance grade.Although the authenticity of being relevant to and relevance grade are described the present invention, it is evident that for this area, also can use any other standard.At step S410, allow to be regarded as all banknotes (" ATM FIT ") true and that be suitable for utilizing again for the detection of the authenticity of every banknote and relevance grade feature and be classified to first destination, bag P1.In step 5415, when classification during every banknote, device 1 can be obtained about the data storage of every banknote in storer.These data can be banknote feature, sequence number or issue number, value etc.This can produce a data recording tabulation that is relevant to the banknote among bag P1 thus, and when every additional banknote is fed when entering in the bag, this tabulation can be updated.In specific embodiments, the data that are relevant to the banknote in first bag can be the accumulation number or the total value of the banknote of classifying simply, may store the details about whole features of every banknote under other certain situation.

At step S420, as previously mentioned, every other banknote all is classified to second destination, bag P2.Once more, identical with first bag, there is a kind of following selection, be about to data storage about every banknote being classified to second destination in storer.These data can be relevant to every the additional banknote that is classified to second destination and upgrade.The banknote that is classified to first destination and second destination be described to represent to first classification once " by ".According to second embodiment of the present invention, at step S430, the user has use now and has been classified to the banknote execution of second destination for the second time by first selection of classifying.

If selecting that the banknote of second destination that is classified to device is carried out the second time, the user passes through, they can be by taking out described banknote and with these banknotes feeding access to plant 1 again from second destination so---promptly, by step being back to step S400---carry out this classification.When passing through this second time, the feature of every banknote is all detected usually again, and at step S410, is considered to any banknote true and that be suitable for utilizing again and all is classified to first destination, bag P1; At step S420, every other banknote all is classified to second destination, bag P2.If when passing through for the second time, by in the banknote of preliminary classification to the second destination some be found to be really, be suitable for (promptly, have the banknote feature that meets first group of preassigned), they will be reclassified to first destination with join according to first time of first classification by the wad of bills of bag in 1 Already in.At step S415 place, for the second time by in be added into first destination every banknote also renewal is relevant to the data recording that is present in the banknote among bag P1 usually.If for the second time by the time other banknote reclassified to first destination, then needs are reset and are recomputated data about the banknote in second destination at step S425 place.For the second time when finishing, the user will have the banknote of identical or lesser number when passing through for the first time usually in second destination.

In first classification, can carry out passing through of arbitrary number of times, thereby guarantee that all genuine and suitable banknotes (that is the banknote that, meets first standard) are all successfully detected.After having carried out all required passing through, can finish first classification, and this process can finish at step S440 place.Alternatively, can carry out after definite step in Fig. 2 institute in steps.If carried out the step after a while of Fig. 2, and also determine the step of execution graph 3, also can in second classification, carry out repeatedly and pass through in the multipass mode that is similar to first classification, but in this case, with assortment of bank note to the three destinations and the 4th destination.This mode that can be similar to Fig. 4 method is carried out.Also can give the user with the data presentation of storing among step S415 and the S425 at step S435 place.

In the single classification, carry out repeatedly by having many advantages.Under specific circumstances, the banknote that may meet first group of preassigned first time of classification by the time successfully do not detected or identified.In addition, because the irregularities of feeding and transmission, some meet the banknote of first group of predetermined standard can be overlapping and be detected as " two banknotes ", thereby be sent to second destination with other assorted paper money.In the second time or ensuing passing through, can not reappear identical feeding or transmission irregularities, banknote successfully can be detected and classifies thus.In some cases, the wad of bills in second destination also may be reversed or with the different directions feeding so that discern nd banknote.Owing to be present in banknote in first destination still in first destination, the number of banknotes in first destination can be ensuing by increasing along with carrying out, and the number of banknotes in second destination can reduce.Usually, when the number of banknotes that is transferred into second destination for several times by after when all keeping constant, repeat by stopping.Thisly use multipass method for single classification and also operate applicable in the method variant of the method for first embodiment or first embodiment any.

Figure 5 illustrates the 3rd embodiment of the present invention.In this scheme, as previously mentioned banknote is inserted into device 1 once more at step S500, and the various features that detect every banknote with according to multiple preassigned with assortment of bank note to the first destination (S510) or be classified to second destination (S515).In the 3rd embodiment of Fig. 5, this first classification also can comprise and be relevant to that second embodiment is disclosed repeatedly to be passed through.Yet in the 3rd embodiment, when the user is ready to proceed to second fen time-like from first classification, these classification allow the generations of " classification-end " incidents, and described " classification-end " incident will be detected by device 1 at step S525 place.This " classification-end " incident can comprise pushing and be present in " assorted paper money " button on the device 1 or can comprise the icon of clicking in the user interface 6.Alternatively, the device 1 applicable to the last time by after wait for the predetermined length time, and if in this time course, do not detect user interactions, just produce first " classification-end " incident.If device monitoring any in bag P1 and the P2 is empty (that is, previous banknote in bag now was removed), also can produce " classification-end " incident.

The data of the banknote that when device 1 when detecting first " classification-end " incident, is relevant to first destination in---bag 1---will be stored in the device memory in step 535, perhaps store on the external computer system possibly.Identical with second embodiment, these data can comprise the characteristic tabulation about every banknote among the bag P1, perhaps can comprise the number or the total value of the banknote of successfully being classified.In case detect the first classification End Event, at step S540 place, will reset first criteria for classification, and change second group of predtermined category standard or import by the user.This second is sorted among Fig. 6 and is illustrated.As identical with second classification of embodiment before, have the feature that meets second group of preassigned that in step S605, is detected if be fed into the banknote of device 1, they will be classified to the 3rd destination at step S610.Under specific circumstances, the 3rd destination can be a bag P1.At step S615, any banknote that does not meet this second group of standard all is classified to the 4th destination, and the 4th destination can be a bag P2.Identical with first classification, can carry out repeatedly passing through of second classification.Along with every banknote handling in second classification, with method shown in Figure 4 in collect the similar method of data, collect data about the banknote in the 3rd destination and the 4th destination.

In case executed passing through of desired times, then can produce second " classification-end " incident, this incident is detected by device 1 at step S630 place, and finishes described second assorting process.Similar to first " classification-end " incident, this second " classification-end " incident can be push be present on the device 1 such as " DONE " button, or in incident through generation after the time of predetermined quantity.In case detect second " classification-end " incident, just step S635 will collect about the data storage of the banknote in the 3rd destination and the 4th destination in storer.As previously mentioned, these data can be included in the total number or the total value of all banknotes in each destination.

In case detect second " classification-end " incident, then install 1 and just can three information be shown to the user at step S640, described information can be: the collected data that are classified to the banknote in first destination in first classification, the collected data that are classified to the banknote in the 3rd destination in second classification that are relevant to of being relevant to; The perhaps collected data that in second classification, are classified to the banknote in the 4th destination that are relevant to.If first classification and second classification are included in the classification described in first embodiment " really " and " being suitable for " banknote, then first grouped data can comprise the sum and/or the total value of " really, being suitable for " banknote, second grouped data that is relevant to first destination can comprise " really " still sum and/or total value of the banknote of " inapplicable ", and the 3rd group of data that are relevant to second classification of banknote in the 4th destination can be included in the sum of any other banknote in P2 or the assorted paper money bag.Once more, the LED 7 that connects by second bag can be used to show whether comprise any counterfeit money in the 4th destination to the user.The part of described grouped data or described grouped data can be displayed on the user interface 6 of device 1, is presented on the screen of attached computer system, is presented on the remote display or can uses the printer of connection to be printed.

In the variant of the 3rd embodiment of the present invention, device 1 can further be applicable to and receive " repetition " instruction that allows to be used for repetition second classification.In case receive " repetition " instruction at step S625 place, for example, this instruction is received after can pressing " repetition " button the user, to reset collected grouped data at step S620 place about second classification, allow the user that all banknotes in the 3rd destination and the 4th destination are taken out, and they are fed into device 1 again so that re-execute second classification.

Can repeat second classification of arbitrary number of times, so that two " reality " destinations being provided except two pocket type sorters or " virtual " destination or the sack of the unlimited number the sack to be provided.

The additional embodiments of criteria for classification

In some embodiments of first to the 3rd embodiment of the present invention, can special denomination be set to a kind of in first group of preassigned.For example, the user may wish to sort out all " genuine, be suitable for " 10 Euros of banknotes.In this case, device applicable to according to default with this denomination standard application in second group of standard, to guarantee in second classification, only will to select assortment of bank note to the three destinations of denomination.

Substituting change comprises, uses the denomination standard in first classification, but is set to be used for one of second second group of preassigned of classifying according to default not denomination standard.In this case, the denomination standard that constitutes first group of preassigned part can be stored, and it is compared with collected data about the banknote that is classified to the 3rd destination in second classification.Be set to the denomination standard of the part of first group of standard if find all the banknote couplings in the 3rd destination, the LED that then is close to the 3rd destination can be set to have one group of illumination pattern or color, and green glow is for example illuminated or glimmer by green glow.Comprise the mixing denomination except the denomination of the part that is chosen to be first group of preassigned if find the 3rd destination, the LED that then is close to the 3rd destination can be activated as different illumination patterns, the illuminated with green of for example glimmering replaces illuminated with green, and the red illumination that perhaps glimmers replaces the flicker illuminated with green.

Issue number or bank note issue level also can be another standards that can constitute the part of first classification or second classification.For example, in first classification, the banknote that one of standard can be set to make all waste distribution level or discarded issue number all is divided into second destination.At second fen time-like, next second group of preassigned can be classified to the 3rd destination with identical distribution level or issue number to be removed, and to make banknote in the destination of winning be " really " but " inapplicable " and belong to the distribution of waiting to be retracted (withdrawn).Because the banknote in the 3rd destination will be returned to bank usually, this can represent time saving selection.

Work embodiment

Now with reference to the work embodiment of Fig. 7 A to Fig. 7 K description by the classification that the operator carried out of device 1.These accompanying drawings show a plurality of user interface screen of the part of the graphic user interface (GUI) that is shown as the method that can be used to carry out arbitrary embodiment of the present invention.

In the following example, with reference to for example output destination P1 of the physics shown in Fig. 1 and P2, also with reference to logic banknote destination L1 and L2---its representative can have variation related physical output destination logic or " virtual " banknote destination, for example wherein the logic destination represent wad and is currently exported banknote in the destination at physics.

From Fig. 7 A, before beginning classification, the operator is presented with screen 700A, and this screen shows below text in title 705, and the text shows that device 1 has been ready to new a collection of banknote is classified.Begin new a collection of tale and the total value that will reset the banknote that is classified to arbitrary logic banknote destination usually.In the bottom of screen 700 be one and can show space to the operator herein up to four icons.Each icon can be corresponding to the correlation function key that is positioned at below the icon.In Fig. 7 A, show icon and " return " 710, this shows, if operator presses first function key in the row of four spaced keys, the data of the classification that the operator is carried out before just can using and coming from, perhaps the data of the classification of being carried out before coming from are added.Be in automatic start-up mode if install 1, then display screen 700 put into wad up to the operator in input storehouse 2.Be in the pattern of manually booting if install 1, then assortment of bank note will not begin to press the suitably "start" button of appointment up to the operator.After the initialization of will classifying, banknote can be fed to device 1 respectively along the transmission channel that one or more sensors 3 are surrounded, wherein pass to commutator 5 and physics output destination P1 or P2 before one of them at banknote, detect the feature of every banknote.In the embodiment of this nothing-" separation " classification, the first output destination P1 be used to receive " be suitable for " standard by BRF banknote (promptly, the B1 banknote), the second output destination P2 is used as " assorted paper money bag (cull pocket) " do not meet described standard with reception banknote.

Be fed to device 1 and be classified to output destination P1 or P2 after one of them at banknote, the operator is presented with the screen 701 as shown in Fig. 7 B.This screen display goes out about two logic banknote locations---L2 in L1 in the row 725 and the row 720---accumulation total value and cumulative total; And about the temporary value and the sum of the logic in the row 715 " assorted paper money bag " destination.In the present embodiment, suppose to be reset and 15 banknotes meet the BRF applied code and have been classified to the first logic banknote destination L1 about new a collection of sum, representative is with 15 banknote physical classification to the first logic banknote destination P1.The number of the banknote among the logic banknote destination L1 and value are expert at and are illustrated in 725; Wherein row 730 illustrate the total value of all banknotes that are classified to the first logic banknote destination L1, and row 735 illustrate the number of the banknote in the output destination that is classified to the first logic banknote destination L1.

The banknote that is classified to second physics output destination P2 is not expert at shown in 720, but shown in the temporary row 715, the content of presentation logic " assorted paper money bag ".In the present embodiment, " interpolation " icon 745 also is displayed on the 3rd function key top.But existing " interpolation " icon 745 shows that all are identical " types " by banknotes of physical classification to the second output destination P2, that is, be identified and for true do not meet the BRF applied code, that is, be the B2 grade.The denomination that data in the row 715 are illustrated in the banknote that has the banknote of 7 this " types " among the second output destination P2 and detected provides the output that adds up to 35 Euros destination.Screen 700B show thus with reference to the step S405 of Fig. 4 to first time of described first classification of S425 " by " the result.

In some variant embodiment, except showing " interpolation " icon 745, indicator such as the light fixture 7 that comprises dual-colored LED can be configured to show first color and/or provide the first illumination pattern all to pass through second group of preassigned to show all banknotes among the second output destination P2, and the output destination does not comprise any article with the detected characteristics that does not meet second group of preassigned, and wherein second group of preassigned comprises that banknote is true and is identified (and first group of standard comprises that banknote is that BRF meets).

In this stage, the operator can use the banknote that is classified to the second output destination P2 carry out for the second time " by " classification (that is, by means of S430).If before the function key below pressing " interpolation " icon 745, the operator takes out the banknote among the second output destination P2, and then the data in the row 715 can be reset, and the banknote among the second output destination P2 can be by device 1 by feeding again.Under most of situation, this may be once more with assortment of bank note to the second output destination P2 and be expert at and provide identical data in 715.Yet, under specific circumstances, if banknote for the first time " by " time be mistakenly detected as the B2 class, then its for the second time " by " time can be detected correctly thus that this banknote will be classified to the first output destination P1, and its related data will be added into the data about the first logic destination in the row 725.

If the operator is satisfied for data presented among the screen 700B, they can press the function key that is positioned at below " interpolation " icon 745 with write down about the second output destination P2---promptly, be present in the logic " assorted paper money bag " data of banknote---be added into about the second logic destination L2's---promptly, being expert at shows in 720---data; That is, the data in the row 715 are added into row 720, although banknote is present among the same physics output destination P2.Press the function keys representative that is arranged in below " interpolation " icon 745 as the classification End Event that step S525 detected at Fig. 5, wherein the data about the second output destination P2 also are stored at step S535 place.In some variants, if what all banknotes among the physics second output destination P2 all comprised is the banknote that meets the B2 standard, then be after after a while under specific circumstances, device 1 can be configured to data with row 715 and be added into the sum about the second logic destination in the row 720 automatically.

After pressing the function key that is positioned at below " interpolation " icon 745, the screen 700C as shown in Fig. 7 C is presented to the operator.As appreciable, be expert at listed information has been added into row 720 in 715 before.Icon 745 also is replaced with " removal " icon 750 now.If the operator presses the function key that is positioned at below " removal " icon 750, just will be added into data removal recently about the cumulative total of the second logic destination L2 in the row 720.Therefore, described as the step S625 that is relevant in the 3rd embodiment in this embodiment, press the function keys that are positioned at below " removal " icon 750 and be equivalent to activate " repetitions " and instruct.Thus, step S620 is described as being relevant to, and presses the function key that is positioned at below this icon and resets recently grouped data about the second output destination P2.

In particular of the present invention, the operator can take out the banknote that is present among physical location P1 and the P2, and they are moved to two discrete wad of bills representing the first logic destination and the second logic destination.When banknote is removed, total value will continue to keep to be expert at and show two the cusums in folding of represent first and second logical places in 720 and 725.If the operator gives up the banknote that is sorted in the second output destination P2 according to above-mentioned, and add more banknotes and 2 be used for another classification to the input field, then the total value in the row 720 will be reset, the situation among Fig. 7 D that Here it is will be described below.

Fig. 7 D shows the result of the wad of bills of handling other 5 banknotes,, carries out another one first classification in the banknote that has been classified before in giving up the second output destination P2 that is.In the embodiment shown in Fig. 7 D, two 5 Euros banknote is detected as that BRF is suitable for, and thus by physical classification to the first output destination P1, and has been added in the row 725 total value about the first logic destination.Yet Fig. 7 D shows following a kind of situation, and wherein other in this case wad of bills comprises one or more banknote of second standard that do not meet.These banknotes will be classified to the second output destination and will be stored and be classified to seven of destination P2 before above the banknote.This is meaning, the potpourri that second destination comprises the banknote that meets second standard and the banknote that does not meet second standard now (for example, some meet the authenticity standard and/or in classification is handled identified banknote and some do not meet the authenticity standard and/or in classification is handled the unrecognized banknote that goes out).If for comprise the banknote that meets second standard and do not meet carry out other classification on the wad of bills of potpourri of banknote of second standard before, the second output destination is empty, and similar a series of incident will take place.

By being present in " separation " icon 755 of the 3rd function key top, and, the potpourri of the different banknotes " type " among the second output destination P2 is indicated to the operator by in conjunction with the total non-zero number in input of the null value in 715 the row 730 of being expert at and 715 the row 735 of being expert at.In this case, total value in the row 735 is illustrated among the physics output destination P2 and has 10 banknotes (promptly, seven banknotes that before have been classified add other three banknotes that are fed to device 1 recently), it is shown with 10 banknotes in this phase table and is arranged in logic " assorted paper money bag ".In specific embodiments, for example the color of 7 indicator LED or illumination pattern can be changed for provide a kind of with export the different signal of signal that is provided when banknote among the P2 of destination all meets second standard when second, that is, show second color and/or the second illumination pattern.The demonstration of " separation " icon 755 and indicator 7 all shows a classification again to the operator, that is, be not that second all banknotes of exporting among the P2 of destination all are and identical " type " estimated in the step of the S225 that is similar to Fig. 2.

When being presented with screen 700B～700D, the operator also can press the function key that is positioned at below " DETAIL " icon 740 at any time, to show the details about every banknote having been handled by device 1.This details for example can comprise about the tabulation of the feature of handling banknote and banknote meets or the details of incongruent any standard.

After the classification results shown in Fig. 7 D, if the operator presses the 3rd function key that is positioned at below " separation " icon 755, they just are presented with the screen 700E as shown in Fig. 7 E.Press " separation " key and allow to carry out second " separation " classification, as shown in Fig. 3 and Fig. 6.Carry out second classification in order to show, in " separation " program, the GUI screen is shown with as appreciable opposite video recording pattern among Fig. 7 E and the 7F.Second classification also can be considered to " classification in the classification ", and the banknote that wherein is classified to the second output destination P2 can further be classified, and do not interfere BRF is not suitable for or B1 assortment of bank note to the first logic destination.When screen 700E is presented to the operator,, then can presses the function keys that are positioned at below " ends " icon 770 and classify to finish to criticize if the operator does not wish to carry out " separations " program.

Before beginning second classification, the operator takes out the banknotes among first and second output destination P1 and the P2, place them in two discrete folded in.In second classification, the banknote that comes from good (that is, first) output destination P1 is placed on one side and does not use.Screen 700E illustrates device 1 and has been ready to receive the wad of bills that has been stored in the banknote among the second output destination P2 corresponding to previous, promptly represents the banknote in the logic " assorted paper money bag ".Once more, depend on selected start-up mode, the operator will be placed into load module 2 to banknote from the second output destination P2, and perhaps wait or button are to begin second classification.Described " separation " or second classification are further exported destination P2 (promptly with doubtful counterfeit money or Unidentified assortment of bank note to the second, do not meet the banknote of authenticity standard), and non-counterfeit money (that is the banknote that, meets the authenticity standard) is classified to the first output destination P1.In the embodiment shown in Fig. 7 F, there are three banknotes to be detected as doubtful counterfeit money or unidentified (that is, category-A) and have been classified to the second output destination P2, this is expert at and is illustrated in 715.Detect seven banknotes then (promptly by the authenticity standard, the B2 class) and be classified to the first output destination P1, yet in " separation " classification, be classified to banknote total value and the total total value that is added into as shown in row 720 of the first output destination P1 about the second logic destination L2.Row 725 shows the banknote that before is classified to the first output destination P1, and these data are placed on one side now.

In " separation " pattern, the existing classification mode setting (this is the part of first standard) that is relevant to the banknote relevance grade is inoperative, this classification divides genuine notes into the first output destination P1, and doubtful counterfeit money or Unidentified banknote branch are gone into the second output destination P2 (that is, based on second standard that is different from first standard).After having carried out the separation classification, the operator can be positioned at the function key below " details " icon 740 by pressing, and observes the details of classification banknote once more.In order to finish " separation " pattern, from the second output destination P2 and the first output destination P1, take out the banknote that has been classified and press the function key that is positioned at below " closing " icon 675.Second output has been detected as doubtful counterfeit money among the P2 of destination or Unidentified banknote places on one side, and it can have been reported to relevant departments.The banknote that will be classified to the first output destination P1 in " separation " classification is put in the banknote of before having removed from the second output destination P2 before " separation " classification (representing the banknote among the second logic destination L2), and will before " separation " classification, stay by the wad of bills among the removed first output destination P1, because this wad of bills will constitute the first logic destination L1.

Withdraw from the operator after " separation " pattern, data presented in the row 720 of screen 700F before---usually corresponding to being divided into the genuine of the first output destination P1 but inapplicable banknote in " separation " classification---is relevant to the storing bills (that is, being added into the data shown in the row 720 of screen 700D) of the banknote that is classified to the second logic destination L2 before being added into.Next this produce the output screen as shown in Fig. 7 G.When the screen 700G, the operator has three kinds of selections: 1) they can be positioned at the function key below " continuations " icon 765 by pushing, and continue the more banknotes of processing in the particular batch banknote; 2) they can be positioned at the function key below " separation " icon 755 by pressing, and handle more " mixing " paper money; Perhaps 3) they come a collection of banknote of end process at the function keys that can be positioned at by pressing below " end " icon 755.In the specific variants embodiment, if the operator limits at setting-up time---for example, 15 seconds---interior button, may start audio alert, and can be to the screen 700H of operator's demonstration as shown in Fig. 7 H.If the operator thinks that they have finished the processing to a collection of banknote, they can press the function key that is positioned at below the "Yes" icon 790.If they wish to continue to handle the more banknotes in the particular batch, then they can press the function key that is positioned at below the "No" icon 780.Yet if they wish to wipe all data that are relevant to existing batch, they can press the function key that is positioned at below " deletion " icon 785.If press the function key that is positioned at below " deletion " icon 785, then screen is resumed to the screen that is similar to 700G, but has " details " and " removal " icon of screen 700C, and " end " icon 775 of screen 700G.If press the function key that is positioned at below the "Yes" icon 790, the classification and the system that then finish a collection of banknote are back to free screen 700A.If press the function key that is positioned at below " deletion " icon 785, then screen 700I can be shown to the operator, wherein banknote is placed on the load module 2 and will restarts batch process automatically, and rewrite come from before the data of classification of banknote batch.In a preferred embodiment, the not shown and system of screen 700I is back to screen 700A.If the operator presses the function key below " returning " icon 710 that is arranged in Fig. 7 I, then the operator is presented with the screen 700J as shown in Fig. 7 J.In screen 700J, the operator is presented with as the "Yes" icon 790 among the screen 700H, but also is presented with " recovery " icon 795.If the operator presses the function key that is positioned at below " recovery " icon 795, the data that then are relevant to deletion batch are stored again and are recovered all sums about described batch.Other banknote during next the operator can handle batch, and with described data be added into about batch in the handled previous banknote data of storing.Press the function keys that are positioned at below the icon 790 and confirmed that this batch list is still deleted.

In assorting process random time so far, the operator also can press the total value that " total value " key allows the banknote in the operator observation post marsupial, because data are eliminated at last.This total value screen is illustrated in the 700K of Fig. 7 K.Be expert in 701, demonstration about the banknote that is classified to the second logic destination of particular batch (promptly, in nothing-" separation " classification, exported the genuine of destination P2 but inapplicable banknote by physical classification to the second, perhaps in " separation " classification by the genuine of physical classification to the first output destination P1 but inapplicable banknote) total value and number, and be expert in 702, show be classified to the first logic destination L1 banknote (promptly, do not having-exported the genuine and suitable banknote of destination P1 by physical classification to the first in " separations " classification) total value and number, and be expert in 703, show the total value and the number of the banknote that has been classified to the first logic destination L1 or the second logic destination L2.These total values do not comprise the information about following doubtful counterfeit money or unknown banknote (category-A) thus, described this banknote do not having-physically is classified to the second output destination in " separations " classification first in " separations " classification, to be exported destination (that is, being classified to the 3rd " paper money of mixing " destination in logic) to second after the physical classification once more then.In this pattern, the operator can pin " total value " key to obtain the composite catalog of the banknote total value being analyzed according to denomination.In these cases, " batch " be generally defined as the banknote of between batch beginning incident and batch End Event, handling, wherein a batch beginning incident can be in response to screen 700A feeding banknote, and batch End Event can be included in to press and presses the function key that is positioned at below the "Yes" icon 790 after the function keys that are positioned at below " end " icon 775.

Finish after a collection of time, the operator also has the selection for the reference number of this batch input operation person definition, and described reference number can point to relevant data printout, perhaps can be used to fetch from storer grouped data.In order to import a batch reference, can present with following user interface screen to the operator, in this user interface screen, the operator can use a plurality of enter keies with the input reference number or with reference to string.This can make the operator fetch data about specific banknote batch more easily.

Although classification provides the foregoing description with reference to BRF, must it should be noted, similar step is applicable to the classification of any other type, in these classification first standard and second standard by be replaced by suitablely be relevant to distribution, currency, denomination, orientation and banknote towards etc. in one or more standards.

Use can be operatively connected to the printing device of device 1, and the data as shown in screen 7A to 7K also can be provided as printout.This printing device can be a thermal printer, for example a kind of in the TSP 700II series that is provided by Star Micronics.Fig. 8 A shows a series of exemplary print outputs to Fig. 8 D.

Fig. 8 A shows the exemplary print output (described as reference Fig. 7 F) that comes from " separation " or second classification.From the top of Fig. 8 A, output shows: current batch numbering or reference; Active user's user identifier; Current tupe-" only authenticity (AUTH-ONLY) " shows and only uses the authenticity standard; Delegation or multirow, it shows the currency of the arbitrary banknote among the currency and the first output destination P1 and the number and the value thereof of denomination and banknote; Delegation, it shows the number and the total value of all banknotes of all denominations among the first output destination P1.The line drawing that comprises " * " mark has been painted each classification process.

Fig. 8 B shows the exemplary print output from first classification, promptly similar with result shown in the 7G to Fig. 7 C output.From the top of Fig. 8 B, output shows: current device or machine identifier; Current batch or reference; Active user's user identifier; Current tupe-" BRF " just shows and classifies at treatments B RF; Delegation or multirow, it shows by any banknote of logical division to the second logic destination---promptly, BRF " inapplicable " banknote---currency and denomination, and the number of banknote and value thereof; Delegation or multirow, it shows by any banknote of logical division to the first logic destination---that is, BRF " is suitable for " banknote---currency and denomination, and the number of banknote and value thereof; And delegation, it shows the number and the total value thereof of all banknotes of all denominations that are classified to the first and second logic destinations.

Fig. 8 C shows the sample printing output of the statistical data details that is relevant to a plurality of BRF classification.From the top of Fig. 8 C, output shows: current device or machine identifier; Batch scope that statistical data is relevant is with the form of first batch number or reference and last batch number or reference; Delegation or multirow, it shows its data and has been added into currency and denomination about all banknotes of the sum of the second logic destination L2---the data that promptly are added, and the number of the banknote of every denomination and value thereof about BRF " inapplicable " banknote by the function key of pressing corresponding to " interpolation " icon 745; Delegation, it has amounted to about the number of the second logic destination L2 banknote and has been worth numeral; Delegation or multirow, it shows all banknotes that are classified to the first logic destination L1 according to first standard---promptly, the banknote that all BRF " are suitable for "---currency and denomination, and the data of the banknote of every kind of denomination and value thereof; And delegation, it has amounted to about the number of the first logic destination L1 banknote and has been worth numeral.

Fig. 8 D shows and uses SUR not have-the statistics array that is similar to Fig. 8 C of BRF classification process.In this embodiment, calculate the total value of banknote according to the banknote that meets one group of standard (the first half of output) and non-compliant banknote (the latter half of printout).The embodiment of nothing-BRF classification can be following classification, and to be whether banknote has specific for upper side for first standard in this classification, and second standard be banknote whether with ad hoc fashion towards.

Claims (39)

1. method of using sorting device with a plurality of taxonomy of goods, described method comprises:

A) detect one or more features of each article;

B) its detected characteristics is met any taxonomy of goods to the first destination of first group of preassigned;

C) with any other taxonomy of goods to the second destination;

D) determine whether to exist following two kinds of situations, whether any article that promptly are classified to second destination have the detected characteristics that meets second group of preassigned, and whether any article that are classified to second destination have the detected characteristics that does not meet second group of preassigned;

E) as determined in the step (d), if second destination comprises the one or more article with the detected characteristics that meets second group of preassigned, and comprise one or more article, then its detected characteristics is met any taxonomy of goods to the three destinations in second destination of second group of preassigned with the detected characteristics that does not meet second group of preassigned; And

F) with four destinations of any other taxonomy of goods to the in second destination.

2. method according to claim 1, wherein said article are the paper documents such as banknote.

3. method according to claim 1 and 2, wherein said first destination is identical with the 3rd destination.

4. require described method according to arbitrary aforesaid right, wherein said second destination is identical with the 4th destination.

5. method according to claim 1, wherein said sorting device only comprises two output destinations, and wherein the 3rd destination is in first destination or second destination one, and the 4th destination is in first destination or second destination another.

6. require described method according to arbitrary aforesaid right, wherein the detected characteristics of article comprises one or more in authenticity, Currency Type, denomination, situation, distribution and the orientation.

7. require described method according to arbitrary aforesaid right, wherein said first group of preassigned is that article are genuine and its situation is suitable for utilizing again.

8. require described method according to arbitrary aforesaid right, wherein said second group of preassigned is that described article are for genuine.

9. require described method according to arbitrary aforesaid right, wherein step (e) comprises the one or more features that detect each article in second destination.

10. require described method according to arbitrary aforesaid right, wherein step (e) and (f) carrying out to be different from the article that step (a) advances to the speed of step (c).

11. require described method according to arbitrary aforesaid right, the step of wherein said method (b) comprises that demonstration is relevant to the data of article in first destination.

12. require described method according to arbitrary aforesaid right,, then this situation indicated to the user if determine in step (d) that wherein all article that are classified to second destination all meet second group of preassigned.

13. comprising, method according to claim 12, wherein said indication show the data that are relevant to article in second destination.

14. require described method according to arbitrary aforesaid right,, then this situation indicated to the user if determined in step (d) that wherein not all article that are classified to second destination all meet second group of preassigned.

15. require described method according to arbitrary aforesaid right, wherein before, repeat step (a) to step (c) for second batch of a plurality of article in step (d).

16. require described method according to arbitrary aforesaid right, wherein said first group of preassigned is to select according to those detected characteristics of first article that will be classified, makes first article that will be classified meet first group of preassigned.

17. require described method according to arbitrary aforesaid right, wherein said second group of preassigned is to select according to those detected characteristics of first article that will be classified in second destination, makes first article that will be classified in second destination meet second group of preassigned.

18. require described method according to arbitrary aforesaid right, further comprise determining whether that each article all meets the 3rd group of preassigned, and if any article all meet the article of the 3rd group of standard, then this situation is indicated to the user.

19. method according to claim 18 wherein by being adjacent to described or each article that meet the 3rd group of preassigned indicator with the sack that is classified to, is carried out described indication to the user.

20.,, then stop this method if wherein the detected characteristics of arbitrary described article all meets the 3rd group of preassigned according to claim 18 or 19 described methods.

21. method according to claim 20, wherein said the 3rd group of preassigned and first group of preassigned and second group of preassigned are mutual exclusions.

22. according to the described method of arbitrary claim in the claim 18～21, wherein said the 3rd group of preassigned is that described article are doubtful fakement.

23. method according to claim 1, wherein:

Described first destination is identical with the 3rd destination;

Described second destination is identical with the 4th destination; And

Second group of preassigned is same as first group of preassigned.

24. method according to claim 1, wherein step c) comprises: in case detect the first classification End Event, just storage is relevant to first group of information of the article that are classified to first destination; And step f) comprises: in case detect the second classification End Event, just storage is relevant to second group of information of the one or more article that are classified to the first, second, third and the 4th destination.

25. method according to claim 24, wherein execution in step d not), up to detecting the first classification End Event.

26. require described method according to arbitrary aforesaid right, wherein step (b) comprises that storage is relevant to the information of the article that are classified to first destination; And wherein step (e) comprises, under the situation of classifying, is updated in being relevant to of storing in the step (b) and comes from again the information that is classified to any overage of first destination in the feeding article.

27. method according to claim 26 further comprises repeatedly repeating step e) and step f).

28. method according to claim 24 wherein after receiving user's input, produces the described first classification End Event and/or the second classification End Event.

29. method according to claim 24 wherein through after the predetermined amount of time, produces the described first classification End Event and/or the second classification End Event.

30., further comprise according to the described method of arbitrary claim in the claim 24～29:

H) show first group of information and second group of information.

31. method according to claim 30, wherein step g) comprises one of following: type information or showing information displayed on screen.

32. according to the described method of arbitrary claim in the claim 24～31, wherein said method further comprises:

H) receive repetitive instruction;

I) reset second group of information; And

J) repeating step e) and f).

33. method according to claim 24, wherein before step e), this method comprises: will be classified to the article feeding again of second destination, and repeating step b) and c).

34. method according to claim 33, wherein step b) produces first group of information after further being included in step b), and use any information that is classified to other article of first destination from the article of feeding again that is relevant to, upgrade the first group of information that is produced.

35. a sorting device comprises:

Input equipment, it is used for article are fed into equipment;

Two or more export the destination;

One commutator system, it can be with article commutations to exporting one of selected in the destination;

One or more sensors, it is used to detect one or more features of each article that is fed from input equipment; And

Controller, it operationally is attached to commutator system and one or more sensor;

Its middle controller comprises:

First module, its one or more features that are suitable for detecting based on one or more sensor determine whether article meet first group of preassigned, if and it meets first group of standard, just operate commutator system with this taxonomy of goods to the first output destination; If it does not meet first group of standard, then with this taxonomy of goods to the second output destination; And

Second module, it is suitable for:

Based on one or more features that one or more sensor detected, determine to meet the number of the article that are classified to second destination of second group of preassigned,

And, determine not meet the number of the article that are classified to second destination of second group of preassigned based on one or more features that one or more sensor detected;

Wherein second module is further adapted for, and based on twice performed definite result of second module, disposes described sorting device.

36. method according to claim 35, if the result that performed twice determines of second module non-zero all wherein, described second module is suitable for changing the state of sorting device.

37. method according to claim 35, wherein said controller comprises:

Three module, if it is configured to all non-zeros of twice performed definite result of second module, just move commutator system, wherein comprise by three module operation commutator, if it meets second group of standard of the one or more features that detect based on one or more sensor, just these article are classified to the 3rd output destination from the second output destination, if and it does not meet second group of standard of the one or more features that detect based on one or more sensor, just these article are classified to the 4th output destination from the second output destination.

38. method substantially as previously discussed.

39. sorting device substantially as previously discussed.

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