CN101715590B - 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 the method for sorting articles, and the device that is used for realizing the method.Disclosed technology and equipment is particularly suited for the valuables of classifying, and such as except other documents such as security, token, check etc., being particularly suited for classifying comprises the currency of banknote and coin.The present invention uses the situation of banknote to be described about it main phase thus, it should be understood 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 sorted is inputed to as in the lower device, and this device uses sensor to detect the feature of every banknote, and exports described banknote in the sack one or the other based on the feature that detects.By this way, the banknote with special characteristic (for example, incorrect orientation, different denominations etc.) that sensor can be identified separates with other banknotes in folded.

This pair of pocket type sorting machine has following inherence restriction, and namely they can only be divided into wad two groups.Owing to for the banknote of two or more " types " being divided into for single group folded from mixing, needing to use the sorter (that is, every kind " type " bag) with output bag more than two.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 processes two embodiments such as the device of the paper material of banknote.The first embodiment except have one " shredder " output, also have five output destinations, and according to preassigned with assortment of bank note to these destinations.The 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 the first embodiment can be used the device of the 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 again feeding 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 another kind of device that is used for the classification banknote.This device comprises three output destinations, and wherein the banknote input position can be used as exporting one of 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 destination for the banknote of more than a kind of denomination or " type ".Then after the first classification, the indication operator will be present in the again feeding of wad of bills in one of these destinations, be divided into the folded of a plurality of unique denominations in order to further will fold.In case banknote is by again feeding, just again detects their feature, and use one group of new criteria for classification and one of be divided in three output destinations with the banknote of feeding again.Although this device allows the banknote of classification two or more " types ", it needs three output destinations, and the time span that is used for carrying out two or three above denomination or classification of type efficient be a subseries " by " twice.

WO 02/27670-A1 discloses a kind of paper money processing machine for input feeding banknote and output feeding banknote.This machine is suitable for processing 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 the 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 the open text of above-mentioned two patents all discloses with exporting the destination banknote of classifying more than two.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 to have comprehensively device and sorting technique to understand in depth.These machines are suitable for processing a large amount of banknotes, and the required time of little folded banknote that therefore is used for classifying is relatively long.Because it inner carries out a plurality of classification, error also occurs 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 for 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 sorting device that uses comprises the method for a plurality of taxonomy of goods:

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 namely are classified to the second destination have the detected characteristics that meets second group of preassigned, and whether any article that are classified to the second destination have the detected characteristics that does not meet second group of preassigned;

E) if such as steps d) in determined, the second destination comprises the one or more article with the detected characteristics that meets second group of preassigned, and comprise the one or more article with the detected characteristics that does not meet second group of preassigned, any article that then detected characteristics of the second destination met second group of preassigned divide to the 3rd destination; And

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

By according to the first standard and the second standard sorting articles by this way, become and can use two pocket type (first and second " destination ") sorters that article are divided at least three types: the first is output as the result of step (b), the second is in step (e), and the third is in step (f).These kinds can represent 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) use step a) in the feature of each article of detection, determine whether the second destination comprises the mixing of banknote, if and find to exist and mix, just only carry out the second classification that is classified to the 3rd destination and the 4th destination.Can avoid thus increasing by the second unnecessary classification of efficient.Can be provided to also show that based on step (d) operator the 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 the second destination.When processing 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 even the second destination only comprises the banknote of a kind of " type ", usually also need to carry out the second classification.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 the first or second destination one, and the 4th destination is another in the first or second destination.This can be so that carry out this method at two pocket type sorters, thereby reduce when the complexity of carrying out prior art is classified the needs for extra output destination.

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, the first destination is identical with the 3rd destination, and one of sorter output bag both can be used as the first destination thus, also can be used as the 3rd destination.In alternate embodiment, (that is, if those article of being told in the second classification will be assigned to other places) also can use different destinations.In other embodiments, the 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 the first destination can be used as the 3rd " virtual " destination, and the 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 possiblely be to repeat the selected number of times of the method and the additional category that is classified to n and/or (n+1) individual destination is provided.This has and can simulate the effect of the destination of unlimited number at 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 respectively the first destination and the second destination, so the method allow based on the single classification of first group of preassigned with comprise repeatedly " by ", wherein by minute can be by again feeding to the article of the second/the 4th destination, and can again use first group of standard.

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 recycling.Be all article true and that be suitable for using by telling for the first time those, recycle be discharged and be sent to rapidly and reliably to these article can.And in many cases, these article form the major part of many article to be sorted, and by it is separated for the first time, the work that needs is used for the remaining article of classification minimizes.

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 the feature that namely detects must meet so that described article are considered to " really " and/or " being suitable for ".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 confirm to have some security feature of expecting, such as magnetic characteristic, security printing etc. at each article.

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

In some concrete preferred embodiments, step (e) and (f) be to carry out at the article of advancing 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 carefully all inapplicable banknotes of processing if the first classification has been removed, it may be favourable faster processing when the second classification.If knownly still have an inapplicable banknote, it may be favourable then processing more slowly when the second classification, because by reducing gait of march, can prevent the further damage of banknote and reduces and stop up risk.And, process more slowly the detection that can improve the feature of article.For example, by making banknote more slowly by sensor array, can realize better pattern identification.The gait of march that is transmitted by changing article, the speed when perhaps changing article and being imported into device, the speed of capable of regulating article.

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

In alternate embodiment, in case detect the first classification termination event, just storage is relevant to the data of the banknote feature of the first classification and/or detection---be worth such as number or indivedual banknote.This first classification termination event 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 the method finishes, and can be included in total number and/or the total value of all banknotes in the first destination.After last step of this method, in case detect the second classification termination event, also can store the data that are relevant to the second classification.This second classification termination event can be the form that is similar to the first classification termination event.Equally, after method is finished, also these data can be shown to the user.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, divided the article to the second destination all to meet second group of preassigned if determined all in step (d), next this step can further comprise its indication to the user.This is so that it is evident that for the user, does not need under specific circumstances execution in step (e) and (f).Preferably, described indication comprises that demonstration is relevant to the data of the article in the second destination, such as total value or number.

In specific favourable 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 article comprise minute the article 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 divide to the second destination) be favourable.Before those do not meet the article of the first standard according to the second criteria classification, can be according to the described many batches of article of the first criteria classification.This can greatly increase overall process speed.The method also applicable to, when detecting the 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, so that 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 according to those detected characteristics of first article that will be classified that come from the second destination, so that the first article that are classified in the second destination meet second group of preassigned.

Preferably, described method further comprises and determines whether that each article 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 fast finding to 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.This so that find the described position that is identified article more say for the user fully clear so that quick obtaining.

In specific embodiments, if the detected characteristics of any meets the 3rd group of preassigned in the described article, just stop the 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 the first destination; And wherein step (e) comprises, in the situation that classify, use is relevant to the information of any other article from the article of the again feeding that is classified to the first destination, is updated in canned data in the step (b).

By the again feeding of banknote that will be classified to the second destination, and repeating step b) and c), can from the 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 genuine, applicable banknotes may be overlapping.This can be detected as " double sheet " and banknote will reach the 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 the first destination.Again feeding and reclassify the banknote that comes from the 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 the 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 occur after through the setting-up time section.Perhaps via printout or via the display method that is connected to the document counter, first group of information and second group of information can be shown to the user.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 the first or second assorting process and carry out Multiple through then out.In the second classification, comprise step e) to f), the user also can produce " repetition " instruction that resets second group of information, and allows again repeating step e) and f).As previously mentioned, in preferred embodiments, the first destination is identical with the 3rd destination, and the second destination is identical with the 4th destination.

The present invention also provides:

Be used for article are fed to the input equipment of equipment;

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 for detection of 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:

The first module, its one or more features that are suitable for detecting based on one or more sensors 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

The second module, it is suitable for:

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

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

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

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

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 the 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 the 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 the exemplary print result who is produced by the printing device that 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 ", by European re-circulation means (European Recycling Framework, ERF)---sometimes be called as banknote re-circulation means (Banknote Recycling Framework, 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 identify following banknote:

The document that " A "-(i) is not recognized as Euro; And

(ii) doubtful forgery Euro;

" B1 "-genuine and " applicable " Euro; And

" B2 "-genuine but " inapplicable " Euro;

Wherein " applicable " and " inapplicable " refers to respectively the banknote that meets the predetermined quality standard, 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, although 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 for the input storehouse 2 of 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, at this described transmission system is not described further.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 optical sensors such as IR detecting device, UV monitor, fluorescence detector, magnetic detector, vision facilities.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 for the two kind classification of execution 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.The first embodiment of the present invention begins the method from Fig. 2.When receiving wad, this process begins (step S200).Then in step S05, detect the feature (authenticity and the situation that comprise at least banknote) of every banknote.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 the second destination bag P2 (step S220).The first method is divided into a bag P1 with B1 class (genuine, applicable banknote) thus; B2 class (genuine, inapplicable banknote) and category-A (counterfeit money None-identified or doubtful) are divided into a bag P2.

Preferably, it is the calculating value (step S215) of true and applicable B1 class banknote that the denomination indicator V1 of bag P1 will indicate about test, 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 " (namely, whether divided any article to the second destination to have the detected characteristics that meets a certain preassigned group, and whether divided any article to the second destination to have the detected characteristics that does not meet a certain preassigned group).If system has determined that all minute are all met the second standard (that is, not having " mixing " paper money) to the banknote of P2, then this process can finish at step S240.Thereby this has prevented from carrying 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, if determined only to comprise B2 class banknote among the bag P2, be worth value or number (step S30) that display V2 just is presented at banknote among 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 the second destination has the detected characteristics that meets second group of preassigned, and at least one that is classified in the article of the 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 to reclassify the banknote among the bag P2 to force; And if detected at least one A (ii) class banknote, " doubtful counterfeit money " alarm 7 (step S235) would just be opened.

After finishing the first classification, banknote among the bag P1 can be recycled (namely, be back to money flow), and following situation can occur the banknote of bag among the P2: indicator P2 is upper therein shows in the situation about being worth (namely, 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 in the situation of any value, 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 the first classification " by ".To be relevant to the second embodiment and describe in further detail this process.

If the potpourri with various banknotes in the first classification is classified to the second destination, this process moves to the second classification of step S300 place beginning among Fig. 3 usually.Banknote among second bag P2 can be moved out of and be reinserted in the auto levelizer 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, the second process is divided into a 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, " applicable " 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 count 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 the second classification.

Typically, a bag P2 can comprise A (i) class banknote, and for example, the banknote that is not recognized as Euro owing to following reason: 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 the doubtful counterfeit money of A (ii) class (Euro) few situation under (in step S305, being detected), alarm 7 will be opened (step S325) again, require operator's manual identification and remove doubtful forgery Euro (namely, the outward appearance that all banknotes among the P2 all have Euro), according to national legislation it is paid national official (for example, police office).

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

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 also can be with a large amount of various other standards defined by the user banknote of classifying.For example, whether replace to detect banknote " applicable " or " inapplicable ", device can be according to denomination (that is, 5 Euros or 10 Euros), perhaps based on the standard of any other features measured of valuable article with assortment of bank note.

The advantage of the two pocket type processes that propose

The double classification process that proposes also can be distinguished applicable and inapplicable banknote so that can use two pocket type sorters except identifying non-genuine article coin or counterfeit money.Said process is especially favourable, because: 1) operator can unexpected " forgetting " not carry out the relevance grade classification, is used for immediately recycle because " the good banknote " of all B1 classes all will enter bag P1 in the first classification (" ATM FIT "); 2) will impel the operator to use the 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) for the treatment of larger folded, the off standard in the bag 2 can be in the first classification accumulation and in single the second classification processed amounting to 2 times.

For example: if machine once can be processed 100 banknotes, 1000 banknotes during the client is folded will need 100 banknotes of each feeding to repeat 10 times first classification, and the bag P2 banknote of only classifying to process all off standards for a time second (for example, 80 banknotes of 7% " B1 " banknote and 1% " A " banknote are drawn together in stacked package described herein): namely, have 11 subseries altogether.This is equivalent to 2 * 10 times 100 banknotes to be divided into first " authenticity " classification and then carries out second " relevance grade " classification, rather than followingly carry out first " ATM FIT " classification and then carry out second " UNFIT " classification: namely, use traditional art methods to carry out and have 20 subseries altogether (after the 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, the first standard can be " banknote is true " simply, and the second standard is " banknote is suitable for recycling ".By this way, in the first classification, need to assess the less feature of banknote, yet in the 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 the upper second group of preassigned that uses of the second classification, really, applicable banknote), the second classification will become to be passed through the second time of the first classification, allow two pocket type sorters again process for the first time by the time not by the banknote that accurately detects or identify.

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

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

In preferred embodiments, the 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 the second classification between value of true paper money and ' waiting outer banknote ', to classify.Usually, ' genuine notes ' in the second classification can all be ' genuine, inapplicable ', if but ' genuine, applicable ' banknote is unrecognized and only be identified in the second classification in the first classification, next just this banknote is added into any " genuine, inapplicable " banknote.

' off standard ' of the 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 the not to be noted risk of counterfeit money, when the first classification finishes and/or the second classification when finishing, machine will indicate whether there is doubtful counterfeit money in off standard.

The variant of the first embodiment

It only is exemplary should understanding above-mentioned the first embodiment, and may be implemented in a variety of ways the 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, applicable ", 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, then in the second classification, the first classification off standard is classified, so that findable any article all are placed in the class categories of the second classification in the class categories of the 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, until described off standard only comprises a classification, 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, then in the second classification, the first classification off standard is classified, relevance grade for the second classification is used different threshold values, so that when in the second classification when processing, the off standard in the first classification unlikely is classified as classifies in the first class categories.

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

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

18) system of following basis (1)～(17) when running into a particular category, just stops to process 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 the second classification.

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

22) system of following basis (21), the first classification is herein carried out between " really " and " off standard ", and the 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 the first embodiment:

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

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

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

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

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

Arbitrary said method, but when in the second classification, running into once unexpected true banknote type, stop to process.

Identification result in use the first classification and the known sequence of banknote are classified in the classification in the ensuing second time (for the third time) (separation).When the first classification does not have misfeed, this has advantages of that allowing to carry out second with more speed classifies.This has also been avoided the complex situations that critical relevance grade banknote is classified by difference when the second classification.

This embodiment can be classified between genuine notes and off standard when the first classification, and when the second classification genuine notes is separated between applicable and inapplicable.

Except other, can than low velocity process 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

The 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, at step S400 one folded banknote to be sorted is placed on the device, and at step S405 place, 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 recycling for the detection of the authenticity of every banknote and relevance grade feature and be classified to the first destination, bag P1.In step 5415, when every banknote of classification, device 1 data about every banknote that obtain can be stored in the 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 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 the second destination, bag P2.Again, identical with first bag, there is a kind of following selection, be about to store in the storer about the data of every banknote being classified to the second destination.These data can be relevant to every the additional banknote that is classified to the second destination and upgrade.The banknote that is classified to the first destination and the second destination be described to represent to the first classification once " by ".According to the second embodiment of the present invention, at step S430, the user has now use and has been classified to the banknote execution of the second destination for the second time by the first selection of classifying.

If carrying out the banknote of the second destination of being classified to device, passes through for the second time user selection, they can be by taking out described banknote and with these banknotes again feeding access to plant 1 from the second destination so---namely, 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 recycling and all is classified to the first destination, bag P1; At step S420, every other banknote all is classified to the 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, applicable (namely, have the banknote feature that meets first group of preassigned), they will be reclassified to the first destination with join according to first time of the 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 the first destination every banknote usually also renewal is relevant to the data recording that is present in the banknote among bag P1.If for the second time by the time other banknote reclassified to the first destination, then at step S425 place needs are reset and recomputate the data about the banknote in the second destination.For the second time when finishing, the user usually will in the second destination, have with for the first time by the time identical or lesser number banknote.

In the first classification, can carry out passing through of arbitrary number of times, thereby guarantee that all genuine and applicable banknotes (that is the banknote that, meets the first standard) are all successfully detected.After having carried out all required passing through, can finish the 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 after a while step of Fig. 2, and also determine the step of execution graph 3, also can in the second classification, carry out Multiple through then out in the multipass mode that is similar to the 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 at step S435 place, the data of storing among step S415 and the S425 be shown to the user.

In the single classification, carry out Multiple through then out and have many advantages.The banknote that under specific circumstances, 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 " double sheet banknote ", thereby be sent to the 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 the second destination also may be reversed or with the different directions feeding in order to identify nd banknote.Owing to being present in banknote in the first destination still in the first destination, the number of banknotes in the first destination can be ensuing by increasing along with carrying out, and the number of banknotes in the second destination can reduce.Usually, when the number of banknotes that is transferred into the second destination for several times by after when all keeping constant, multiple passage will stop.Thisly use multipass method for single classification and also operate applicable in the method variant of the method for the first embodiment or the 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 again 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 the second destination (S515).In the 3rd embodiment of Fig. 5, this first classification also can comprise and be relevant to the disclosed Multiple through then out of the second embodiment.Yet in the 3rd embodiment, when the user is ready to proceed to for second when classification from the first classification, these classification allow " classification-finish " events to occur, and described " classification-finish " event will be detected by device 1 at step S525 place.This " classification-finish " event can comprise pressing 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, 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, " classification-end " event that just produces first.If any in bag P1 and the P2 of device monitoring is empty (that is, previous banknote in bag now was removed), also can produce " classification-finish " event.

When device 1 " classification-finish " event that detects first, the data of the banknote that is relevant to the 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 the second embodiment, these data can comprise the characteristic tabulation about every banknote among the bag P1, perhaps can comprise 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 the first criteria for classification, and change second group of predtermined category standard or inputted by the user.This second is sorted among Fig. 6 and is illustrated.As identical with the second classification of embodiment before, have the feature that meets second group of preassigned that in step S605, detects 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 the first classification, can carry out the second Multiple through then out of classifying.Along with every banknote processing in the second classification, with method shown in Figure 4 in collect the similar method of data, collect the data about the banknote in the 3rd destination and the 4th destination.

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

In case detect second " classification-finish " event, 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 the first destination in the first classification, the collected data that are classified to the banknote in the 3rd destination in the second classification that are relevant to of being relevant to; Perhaps collected data that in the second classification, are classified to the banknote in the 4th destination that are relevant to.If the first classification and the second classification are included in the classification described in the first embodiment " really " and " being suitable for " banknote, then the first grouped data can comprise sum and/or the total value of " really, being suitable for " banknote, the second grouped data that is relevant to the 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 the 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.Again, 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 receive " repetition " instruction that is allowed for repetition the 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 at step S620 place the collected grouped data about the 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 in order to re-execute the second classification.

Can repeat the 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 other embodiment of criteria for classification

In some embodiments of the 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, applicable " 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 the second classification, only will to select assortment of bank note to the three destinations of denomination.

Substituting change comprises, uses the denomination standard in the first classification, but the denomination standard configuration is not one of second group of preassigned being used for the second classification according to default.In this case, the denomination standard that consists of 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 the 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 consist of the part of the first classification or the second classification.For example, in the first classification, one of standard can be set such that the banknote of all waste distribution level or discarded issue number all is divided into the second destination.When the second classification, next second group of preassigned can be classified to the 3rd destination with identical distribution level or issue number to be removed, so that the banknote in the first destination is " really " but " inapplicable " and belongs 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

The work embodiment of the classification of being undertaken by the operator who installs 1 is described now with reference to Fig. 7 A to Fig. 7 K.These accompanying drawings show a plurality of user interface screen of a part of the graphic user interface (GUI) of the method that is shown as being used to carrying out arbitrary embodiment of the present invention.

In the following example, with reference to for example the 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 vicissitudinous related physical output destination logic or " virtual " banknote destination, for example wherein the logic destination represent wad and currently exports 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 usually reset the banknote that is classified to arbitrary logic banknote destination.In the bottom of screen 700 be one and can show space up to four icons to the operator herein.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 carries out before just can using and coming from are perhaps added to the data that come from the classification of carrying out before.Be in automatic start-up mode if install 1, then with display screen 700 until the operator puts into wad in input in the storehouse 2.Be in the pattern of manually booting if install 1, then assortment of bank note will not begin until the operator presses the suitably "start" button of appointment.After the initialization of will classifying, banknote can be fed to respectively device 1 along the transmission channel that one or more sensors 3 surround, 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 (namely, 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 the L1 in the row 725 and the row 720---accumulation total value and cumulative total; And about 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 the 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.Existing " interpolation " icon 745 shows that all are identical " types " by banknotes of physical classification to the second output destination P2, that is, is identified and is true but do not meet the BRF applied code, that is and, 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 detect 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 the 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 the 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 again feeding.In most of situation, this may be again 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 the data that show among the screen 700B, they can press the function key that is positioned at below " interpolation " icon 745 with recorded about the second output destination P2---namely, be present in the logic " assorted paper money bag " data of banknote---be added into about the second logic destination L2's---namely, 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 Physical output destination P2.Press and be arranged in the classification End Event that the function keys representative below " interpolation " icon 745 detects as the step S525 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 physics the 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 automatic powder adding with row 715 and add to the sum about the second logic destination in the row 720.

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 recently be added into the data removal 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 " repetition " instruction.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 that represent 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 that represents the 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, and Here it is with the situation among Fig. 7 D that is described below.

Fig. 7 D shows the result of the wad of bills of processing other 5 banknotes,, carries out another one the 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, it is applicable that two 5 Euros banknote is detected as BRF, and thus by physical classification to the first output destination P1, and be 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 wad of bills comprises one or more banknote of second standard that do not meet in this case.These banknotes will be classified to second output the destination and will be stored in before be classified to destination P2 seven banknotes above.This is meaning, the potpourri that the second destination comprises the banknote that meets the second standard and the banknote that does not meet the second standard now (for example, some meet the authenticity standard and/or in classification is processed identified banknote, and some do not meet the authenticity standard and/or in classification is processed the unrecognized banknote that goes out).If before carrying out other classification for the wad of bills of potpourri that comprises the banknote that meets the second standard and do not meet the banknote of the second standard, the second output destination is empty, and similar sequence of events will occur.

By being present in " separation " icon 755 of the 3rd function key top, and by in conjunction with the total non-zero number in the input of the null value in 715 the row 730 of being expert at and 715 the row 735 of being expert at, the potpourri of the different banknotes " type " among the second output destination P2 is indicated to the operator.In this case, total value in the row 735 is illustrated among the physics output destination P2 and has 10 banknotes (namely, seven banknotes that before have been classified add other three banknotes that recently are fed to device 1), 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 to, and a kind of signal different from the signal that provides when the banknote among the second output destination P2 all meets the second standard is provided, that is, show the second color and/or the second illumination pattern.The demonstration of " separation " icon 755 and indicator 7 all shows an again classification 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 processed by device 1.This details for example can comprise about the tabulation of the feature of processing 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 three functions 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 the second classification in order to show, in " separations " program, the GUI screen is shown with such as appreciable opposite video recording pattern among Fig. 7 E and the 7F.The 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 does not interfere BRF is applicable or B1 assortment of bank note to the first logic destination.When screen 700E is presented to the operator, if the operator does not wish to carry out " separations " program, then can presses the function keys that are positioned at below " ends " icon 770 and classify to finish to criticize.

Before beginning the second classification, the operator takes out the banknotes among the first and second output destination P1 and P2, place them in two discrete folded in.In the 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, namely represents the banknote in the logic " assorted paper money bag ".Again, 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 the second classification.Described " separation " or the second classification are further exported destination P2 (namely 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.Then detect seven banknotes by the authenticity standard (namely, 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 about the second logic destination L2 that is added into as shown in row 720 of the first output destination P1.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 the first standard) that is relevant to the banknote relevance grade is inoperative, this classification is divided into the first output destination P1 with genuine notes, and doubtful counterfeit money or Unidentified banknote are divided into the second output destination P2 (that is, based on the second standard that is different from the first standard).After having carried out the separation classification, the operator can be positioned at by pressing the function key below " details " icon 740, again observes the details of classification banknote.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.The 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 removed the first output destination P1, because this wad of bills will consist of the first logic destination L1.

Withdraw from the operator after " separation " pattern, the data that before show in the row 720 of screen 700F---usually corresponding to being divided into the genuine of the first output destination P1 but inapplicable banknote in " separations " classification---are added into the storing bills that is relevant to the banknote that is classified to the second logic destination L2 before (that is, being added into the data shown in the row 720 of screen 700D).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 by pressing the function key below " continuations " icon 765, continue the more banknotes of processing in the particular batch banknote; 2) they can be positioned at by pressing the function key below " separation " icon 755, process 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 process 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 the autoboot batch process, 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 such 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 again stored and are recovered all sums about described batch.Other banknote during next the operator can process 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 (namely, 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 (namely, without the genuine and applicable banknote of being exported destination P1 in-" separations " classification by physical classification to the first) total value and number, and be expert in 703, show 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, then described this banknote is being exported destination (that is, being classified in logic the 3rd " paper money of mixing " destination) to second after the physical classification again without physically being classified to first the second output destination in-" separations " classification in " separations " classification.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 event and batch End Event, processing, wherein a batch beginning event 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-printing output, perhaps can be used to fetch from storer grouped data.In order to input 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 more easily data about specific banknote batch.

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

Use is 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 thermal printer, a kind of in the TSP 700II series that is for example 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 the 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 currency and the first output destination P1 and number and the value thereof of denomination and banknote; Delegation, it shows 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 the first classification, the i.e. output similar with result shown in the 7G to Fig. 7 C.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---namely, 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 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 the 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 about BRF " inapplicable " banknote that namely are added by the function key of pressing corresponding to " interpolation " icon 745, and the number of the banknote of every denomination and value thereof; 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 the first standard---namely, 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 to carry out the statistics array that is similar to Fig. 8 C of nothing-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 the first standard in this classification, and the second standard be banknote whether with ad hoc fashion towards.

Claims (33)

1. one kind is used sorting device with the method for a plurality of paper valuables classification, and described method comprises:

A) described a plurality of article are fed in the described sorting device;

B) use described sorting device to detect one or more features of each article;

C) its detected characteristics is met any taxonomy of goods of first group of preassigned to the first destination of described sorting device;

D) with second destination of any other taxonomy of goods to described sorting device;

E) use described sorting device to determine: whether to have any article that are classified to the second destination to have the detected characteristics that meets second group of preassigned, and whether have any article that are classified to the second destination to have the detected characteristics that does not meet second group of preassigned;

F) if as in the step e) by as described in sorting device determined, the second destination comprises the one or more article with the detected characteristics that meets second group of preassigned and the one or more article with the detected characteristics that does not meet second group of preassigned, the then indication of output one this situation of indication from sorting device;

G) based on described indication, with its detected characteristics meet second group of preassigned from any taxonomy of goods of the second destination the 3rd destination to described sorting device; And

H) will be from any other taxonomy of goods of the second destination the 4th destination to described sorting device;

Wherein said sorting device only comprises two output destinations, and wherein the 3rd destination is in the first destination or the second destination one, and the 4th destination is in the first destination or the second destination another.

2. method according to claim 1, wherein said article are banknotes.

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

4. according to the described method of arbitrary the claims, wherein said first group of preassigned is that article are genuine and its situation is suitable for recycling.

5. according to the described method of arbitrary the claims, wherein said second group of preassigned is that article are genuine.

6. according to the described method of arbitrary the claims, wherein step (f) comprises the one or more features that detect from each article of the second destination.

7. according to the described method of arbitrary the claims, step (f) and (g) in the situation that the speed of the article speed that step (b) is advanced to the article in the step (d) when being different from execution in step (b) to step (d) is advanced, carry out wherein.

8. according to the described method of arbitrary the claims, the step of wherein said method (c) comprises that demonstration is relevant to the data of the article in the first destination.

9. according to the described method of arbitrary the claims, if determine in step (e) that wherein all article that are classified to the second destination all meet second group of preassigned, then this situation is indicated to the user.

10. method according to claim 9, wherein said indication comprise and show the data that are relevant to the article in the second destination.

11. according to the described method of arbitrary the claims, if determine in step (e) that wherein not all article that are classified to the second destination all meet second group of preassigned, then indicate this situation to the user.

12. according to the described method of arbitrary the claims, wherein in step (e) before, a plurality of article of second batch are repeated step (b) to step (d).

13. according to the described method of arbitrary the claims, wherein said first group of preassigned is to select according to those detected characteristics of first article that will be classified, so that first article that will be classified meet first group of preassigned.

14. according to the described method of arbitrary the claims, wherein said second group of preassigned is that basis is selected from those detected characteristics of first article that will be classified of the second destination, so that meet second group of preassigned from first article that will be classified of the second destination.

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

16. method according to claim 15 wherein by being adjacent to described or each meets the indicator of the sack that the article of the 3rd group of preassigned are classified to, is carried out described indication to the user.

17. according to claim 15 or 16 described methods, if wherein the detected characteristics of arbitrary described article meets the 3rd group of preassigned, then stop the method.

18. method according to claim 17, wherein said the 3rd group of preassigned and first group of preassigned and second group of preassigned are mutual exclusions.

19. the described method of arbitrary claim according to claim 15～18, wherein said the 3rd group of preassigned is that article are suspicious fakement.

20. method according to claim 1, wherein:

Described the first destination is identical with the 3rd destination;

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

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

21. method according to claim 1, wherein step d) 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 the first destination; And step g) 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 in the first, second, third and the 4th destination.

22. method according to claim 21, wherein execution in step e not), until detect the first classification End Event.

23. according to the described method of arbitrary the claims, wherein step (c) comprises that storage is relevant to the information of the article that are classified to the first destination; And wherein step (f) comprises, in the situation that classify, with the information updating canned data in step (c) that is relevant to any overage that is classified to the first destination in the article that come from again feeding.

24. method according to claim 23 further comprises repeating step f) and step g) is repeatedly.

25. method according to claim 21 wherein after receiving user's input, produces described the first classification End Event and/or the second classification End Event.

26. method according to claim 21 wherein through after the predetermined amount of time, produces described the first classification End Event and/or the second classification End Event.

27. the described method of arbitrary claim according to claim 21～26 further comprises:

I) show described first group of information and second group of information.

28. method according to claim 27, wherein step h) comprise one of following: print described information, or showing the described information of screen display.

29. the described method of arbitrary claim according to claim 21～28, wherein said method further comprises:

J) receive repetitive instruction;

K) reset described second group of information; And

L) repeating step f) and g).

30. method according to claim 21, wherein before step f), the method also comprises: will be classified to the again feeding of article of the second destination, and repeating step c) and d).

31. method according to claim 30, wherein step c) further is included in and produces first group of information after the step c), and the first group of information that produces with the information updating that is relevant to any overage that is classified to the first destination in the article that come from again feeding.

32. a sorting device that is used for the classification of paper valuables comprises:

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

Just in time export destinations for two;

One commutator system, it can commutate the article from described input equipment to the selected destination of exporting in the destination;

One or more sensors, it is for detection of the one or more features from each article of described input equipment feeding; And

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

Wherein said controller comprises:

The first module, its one or more features that are suitable for detecting based on described one or more sensors determine whether article meet first group of preassigned, if and these article meet first group of standard, just operate described commutator system so that this taxonomy of goods to the first is exported the destination, if and these article do not meet first group of standard, just operate described commutator system so that this taxonomy of goods to the second is exported the destination;

The second module, it is suitable for:

Based on one or more features that described one or more sensors detect, determine whether that the one or more article that are classified to the second destination meet second group of preassigned, and

Based on one or more features that described one or more sensors detect, determine whether that the one or more article that are classified to the second destination do not meet second group of preassigned;

Wherein said the second module is further adapted for, and based on by twice performed definite positive result of this second module, exports one and shows whether need the again indication of a classification; And,

The 3rd module, twice performed definite result is sure if it is configured to described the second module, just move described commutator system, wherein comprise by described the 3rd module operation commutator, if the one or more features that detect based on described one or more sensors, the article that have been classified to the second output destination from described input equipment meet second group of standard, just with this taxonomy of goods to the three output destinations, if and the one or more features that detect based on described one or more sensors, article do not meet second group of standard, just these article are classified to the 4th output destination from the second destination

Wherein the 3rd destination is in the first destination or the second destination one, and the 4th destination is in the first destination or the second destination another.

33. sorting device according to claim 32, if wherein need an again classification, described the second module is suitable for changing the state of sorting device.

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