DE102011053443A1 - Cashbox with a display unit for displaying the current operating state of the cashbox - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a cash box (10) having a receiving area (12) for receiving bank notes, a cancellation unit (14) for irreversibly canceling the recorded bank notes, a control unit (18) for controlling the cancellation unit (14) and a display unit (22). includes. The control unit (18) controls the display unit (22) in such a way that the display unit (22) at least displays the current operating state of the cashbox (10).

Description

The invention relates to a cashbox comprising a receiving area for receiving banknotes, a devaluation unit for irreversibly canceling the banknotes received in the receiving area, and a control unit for controlling this devaluation unit. The control unit adjusts at least one parameter of the actuation of the invalidation unit as a function of the current operating state of the cashbox. Further, the cash box has a display unit for displaying information to an operator of the cash box.

Cash cassettes are often equipped with so-called ink kits, with the help of which, when a manipulation attempt is made, the bills taken in the cash box can be irreversibly inked with a dye. As a result, the notes of value can not be circulated by the thief carrying out the manipulation and are thus worthless to him. To detect the manipulation attempts, a plurality of sensors are provided in the cash box. For example, position sensors, shock sensors for detecting jerky loads, sensors for detecting the opening of the lid of the cashbox, sensors for detecting the opening of a shutter of the cashbox, liquid sensors and / or gas sensors may be provided.

During normal use of the cash box this is operated in different operating states, depending on the operating state, other sensors are activated, i. that the operating unit only triggers the validation unit if the corresponding sensor that supplies a signal is also activated. The cash boxes are, for example, operated in a transport mode in which the sensors are activated to detect an opening of the lid, but the position sensors are deactivated, so that they are transported between ATMs, automatic POS systems, automatic cash safes and / or a cash center the devaluation unit does not unnecessarily trigger in an oblique holding the cashbox and colors the notes of value, although there is no attempt at manipulation at all. On the other hand, if the cashbox is accommodated, for example, in the vault of an ATM, it is operated in a so-called safe mode, in which the position sensors are activated, but, for example, the sensor for detecting the opening of the shutter is deactivated.

The switching between the different operating modes of the cashbox is in particular automatically when the cashbox is supplied to a device or a device in which it was previously recorded, is removed. Alternatively, the setting of the operating modes can also be done manually.

In some of the modes of operation, various timers are preset to indicate the time interval provided for this mode of operation. Within this time interval, the cashbox must be put in another operating mode, otherwise the devaluation unit is triggered.

In known cash boxes, it is not apparent to the operator handling the cash box which operating mode is currently set. Thus, the operator also does not know how to handle the cashbox momentarily, so that the unintentional triggering of the devaluation unit may be caused by incorrect handling of the cashbox. Furthermore, with known cashbox, it is problematic that the operator does not know how much time the timer still has, so that it may not hurry when the timer is about to end.

From the document US 2003 0071048 A1 a cashbox is known which comprises a display via which the operator of the current inventory of the cashbox is displayed on notes.

The document US 6,976,634 B2 discloses a cashbox that also includes a display unit.

It is an object of the invention to provide a cashbox, with the help of which the number of unnecessary false triggering of a devaluation unit is reduced.

This object is achieved by a cashbox having the features of claim 1. Advantageous developments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

According to the invention, the control unit controls the display unit in such a way that it displays at least the current operating state of the cashbox. This ensures that the operator who handles the cashbox knows at any time by looking at the display unit, which operating state is currently activated. Thus, the operator also knows how to handle the cashbox without triggering the invalidation unit. This reduces the number of misses of the devaluation unit, that is to say that the devaluation unit triggers and irreversibly invalidates the notes of value without an actual manipulation attempt being present.

In particular, a first and a second operating state are preset. If the Cashbox is operated in the first operating state, in particular information is displayed using the display unit that the cashbox is operated in the first operating state. Accordingly, with the aid of the display unit, information that the cashbox is operated in the second operating state is displayed when the cashbox is actually operated in the second operating state.

In particular, the display unit comprises a display, preferably a liquid crystal display (LCD). As a result, a simple, compact and yet inexpensive construction of the display unit is given, so that by display unit only little space, which is already tight in money cassettes anyway, is needed.

The current operating state can be displayed in particular via a display area of the display unit, wherein this display area is designed in particular as a segment display comprising at least two segments. In this way it is achieved that the operating state can be displayed in a simple manner by the display of at least one of the two segments, both segments, or neither of the two segments.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, a first operating state is preset in which the cashbox is operated when it is inserted in an ATM, an automatic checkout system and / or an automatic cash drawer and if a safe door of the ATM, the automatic checkout system or the automatic cash drawer closed is. This operating state is also referred to in particular as a safe mode in which the invalidation unit is activated and is triggered, for example, when a position sensor of the operating cassette detects an impermissible change in the position of the cashbox.

Furthermore, a second operating state, the so-called open-safe mode is preset in which the cashbox is operated when it is inserted into an ATM, an automatic checkout system or an automatic cash drawer and if a safe door of the ATM, the automatic checkout system or the automatic Safe cask is open. This second operating state thus indicates the operating state in which the cashbox is operated when it is supplied to the ATM, the automatic cash register system or the automatic cash deposit or is removed accordingly. Also in this open-safe mode, the validation unit is activated and it is a timer that specifies the time interval within which the cashbox must be inserted into the vault and the vault door must be closed or within which the cashbox must be removed , If this does not happen within this pre-set time interval, the control unit triggers the validation unit.

Furthermore, a third operating state, the so-called transport box mode in which the cashbox is operated when it is transported in a transport case, can be preset.

In addition, a fourth operating state, the so-called rack mode, in which the cash box is operated when it is inserted in a rack for cassettes to be cached, may be preset. Such racks are used, for example, in the back-office area to cache the cash boxes while they are not needed. In this rack mode, in particular all the sensors of the cashbox are activated, so that if at least one of these sensors provides a signal, the validation unit is triggered.

Furthermore, a fifth operating state, the so-called off mode, can be preset in which the cashbox is operated when it is deactivated. In particular, in this off mode, the cashbox is not used to store banknotes. Thus, no sensors are activated in this off mode, so that, regardless of how the cashbox is handled, the devaluation unit is not triggered.

In addition, a sixth operating state may be preset in which the cashbox is operated when configured, that is, when, for example, the timers of the individual operating modes or other adjustable parameters for driving the validation unit are being configured and / or not yet configured.

Furthermore, a seventh operating state can be preset in which the cashbox is operated while the validation unit is triggered or after the validation unit has been triggered.

Moreover, it is advantageous if an eighth operating state, the so-called transport mode, is preset in which the cashbox is operated when it is transported without a transport container, in particular without a transport case. In this eighth operating state, the devaluation unit is also activated, but preferably the position sensors are deactivated, so that regardless of the position of the cashbox during operation, the devaluation unit is not triggered. Furthermore, in particular, a timer is preset, which indicates the time interval within which the transport must be completed and the Cashbox must be placed in one of the other operating conditions.

In addition, a ninth operating state may be preset in which the cashbox is operated when inserted into a vault of an ATM, an automatic teller system or an automatic cash teller and, meanwhile, a shutter containing an opening of the cashbox through which the tills of the teller Cash dispensers, the automatic cash register system and / or the automatic cash drawer of the cash box can be supplied or removed, closes, just opened or closed.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the preset operating states are each uniquely associated with a symbol and / or a combination of at least two symbols. The symbol or the corresponding combination of the symbols which is or are assigned to the current operating state are respectively displayed via the display unit for displaying the current operating state. In this way it is achieved that the operator with the help of the corresponding symbols can easily recognize in a short time, which operating mode is currently activated. In particular, the use of symbols has the advantage that, in contrast to texts, they can be easily understood by the operators, regardless of which language they speak. In particular, symbols are used which, due to their design, have an intuitive connection to the respective symbolized operating state.

In a very preferred embodiment, each operating state is assigned its own symbol. Alternatively, it is also possible that one of the operating states is assigned a first symbol and that another of the operating states is assigned a combination of the first and the second symbol. The latter has the advantage that a total of fewer symbols must be provided.

Furthermore, at least one of the symbols may comprise a letter, in particular a word characterizing the assigned operating state.

The first operating state is characterized in particular by a first symbol, the second operating state by the combination of the first symbol and a second symbol, the third operating state by the combination of the first symbol, the second symbol, a third symbol and a fourth symbol, the fourth operating state the combination of the first and the third symbol, the fifth operating state by a fifth symbol, the sixth operating state by the combination of the second and the fifth symbol, the seventh operating state by the combination of the first, second, third, fourth and fifth symbol, the eighth Operating state by the combination of the first, second and fourth symbols and / or the ninth operating state characterized by the combination of the first, second and fourth symbols, wherein in the ninth operating state, two sub-segments of the fourth symbol are alternately displayed, ie flash. In this way, all nine operating states can be easily intuitively displayed using just five symbols.

The first symbol here has in particular the form of a drop and indicates that the devaluation unit is activated. Thus, the first symbol is displayed in particular in all those operating states in which the validation unit is activated. In particular, the second symbol has the form of a plurality of rectangles arranged in a straight line, which are intended to symbolize time intervals. Thus, the second symbol is displayed in those operating states in which a timer for the respective operating state is preset. In this case, the individual rectangles particularly identify preset part-time intervals of the entire time interval of the timer.

The third symbol has in particular the form of a parking traffic sign and is activated in those operating states in which the cashbox is temporarily stored in a container.

For example, the fourth symbol may be in the form of an arrow indicating that the cashbox is transportable in this mode of operation. In particular, in the operating states in which the arrow is displayed, the position sensors are deactivated. The arrow comprises as a first sub-segment, in particular a segment comprising the tip of the arrow, and a second sub-segment, preferably a tail. In ninth mode, the tail and the tip of the arrow flash alternately. The word "transport" or a part of this word may preferably be written in the arrow.

The fifth symbol has in particular the word "OFF".

In a particularly preferred embodiment, information about a necessary maintenance is displayed via the display unit. On the one hand, such a necessary maintenance can be a regular maintenance, if, for example, parts which are subject to wear and therefore have to be replaced regularly must be changed. Furthermore, it can also be a such maintenance Actually occurred errors that must be eliminated so that the cashbox can continue to operate.

The display area has in particular a further sixth symbol, via which a necessary maintenance can be displayed. If this sixth symbol is displayed, then maintenance is necessary; if the sixth symbol is not displayed, no maintenance is currently required. The sixth symbol has in particular the form of a wrench.

Specifically, the control unit controls the display unit such that the sixth icon is permanently displayed when a consumable part of the invalidation unit needs to be replaced, and that the sixth symbol is blinked when the cashbox is defective. The flashing display of the symbol is understood in particular when it is displayed at preset time intervals and hidden again.

Furthermore, it is advantageous if at least one of the operating states is assigned a preset time interval, a so-called timer, which begins with the activation of the operating state and after which the control unit triggers the devaluation unit. This time interval can be displayed in particular by a timer symbol of the display area of the display unit if the corresponding operating state to which the time interval is assigned is activated. The timer icon allows the operator of the cashbox to easily recognize that a timer is activated so that the operator can be aware of putting the cashbox in another mode of operation prior to the expiration of that timer so that the validation unit will not be triggered.

With the aid of the timer symbol, the remaining time of the time interval is preferably displayed in each case, so that the operator receives feedback about how much time you still have remaining to perform the action for which the time interval has been set. Here, the remaining time is displayed in particular in preset discrete steps.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the timer symbol used is one of the symbols for displaying the operating states, in particular the second symbol. This has the advantage that no separate timer symbol must be used and a compact, small display area can be used. The timer symbol comprises, for example, at least two rectangles arranged in a straight line, each rectangle symbolizing a preset part-time interval and the sum of all part-time intervals corresponding to the preset time interval. In a particularly preferred embodiment, nine rectangles are provided, so that as far as possible the time still available can be displayed. In a particularly preferred embodiment, at least two of the rectangles of the timer symbol have the same first size, and at least one rectangle is provided with a second size different from the first size. In particular, the rectangles of the same size correspond in each case to the same part-time interval, with rectangles of different sizes symbolizing different part-time intervals. Thus, the operator can intuitively recognize how much time is available based on the size of the respective time intervals. Alternatively, all rectangles can be the same size and each symbolize the same time interval. Furthermore, it is alternatively possible that, despite the same size of the different rectangles, different time intervals are symbolized by them.

In particular, if the cashbox is moved to the operating state for which the timer is preset, the timer icon will indicate the total time of the timer. If the time symbolized by one of the rectangles has passed, this rectangle disappears so that only fewer rectangles are displayed. As soon as no rectangle is displayed, the timer has expired and the validation unit is triggered by the control unit.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the control unit controls the display unit in such a way that the rectangle of the timer symbol, the time interval is currently running, is displayed flashing, so that is shown by the flashing of the operator that the timer is active.

It is advantageous if at least two operating states are assigned different time intervals and if a different number of rectangles of the timer symbol are displayed at the beginning of these two operating states. Thus, the operator can tell from the number of displayed rectangles of the timer symbol how long the time interval of the corresponding timer is. In this case, each rectangle of the timer symbol, regardless of the current operating state, preferably always symbolizes the same part-time interval, so that the operator, when one of the rectangles is displayed, always knows exactly which time is symbolized by this rectangle.

Alternatively, the individual rectangles of the timer symbol may also stand for different part-time intervals, depending on the respective current operating state.

The cashbox preferably has a plurality of sensors for detecting a manipulation attempt. The control unit activates a subset of these sensors as parameters for the activation of the devaluation unit as a function of the operating state and deactivates the remaining sensors. It is thus achieved that, depending on the operating state, only those sensors are activated by means of which a manipulation attempt can be concluded in the current operating state. In particular, thus false triggering of the devaluation unit can be avoided.

The cancellation unit is designed in particular as a so-called ink kit, with the aid of which, when a manipulation attempt is present, the notes of value received in the cash box can be irreversibly dyed with a dye.

Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, which illustrates the invention with reference to embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying figures.

Show it:

1 a schematic representation of a cashbox;

2 a schematic representation of a money cycle;

3 a schematic representation of the display area of a display unit of the cashbox after 1 in a first operating state;

4 a schematic representation of the display area after 3 in a second operating state;

5 a schematic representation of the display area after 3 in a third operating condition;

6 a schematic representation of the display area after 3 in a fourth operating condition;

7 a schematic representation of the display area after 3 in a fifth operating state;

8th a schematic representation of the display area after 3 in a sixth operating condition;

9 a schematic representation of the display area after 3 in a seventh operating state;

10 a schematic representation of the display area after 3 in an eighth operating condition;

11 a schematic representation of the display area after 3 in a ninth operating condition;

12 a schematic representation of the display area after 3 in a tenth operating condition;

13 a schematic representation of the display area after 3 in an eleventh operating condition;

14 a schematic representation of the display area after 3 in a twelfth operating condition;

15 a schematic representation of the display area after 3 in a thirteenth operating condition; and

16 a further schematic representation of the display area after 3 ,

In 1 is a schematic representation of a cashbox 10 shown. The cashbox 10 includes a receiving area 12 in which those in the cashbox 10 recorded value notes are included. The banknotes can in the recording area 12 be placed in a stacked form standing on their edges. Alternatively, a roller storage can be provided, in which the notes of value recorded between two film strips are wound up on a winding drum.

Furthermore, the cashbox includes 10 one as a so-called ink kit 14 trained devaluation unit, over which the in the receiving area 12 recorded notes of value can be canceled irreversibly. The ink kit 14 For this purpose, a dye container filled with a dye, wherein the dye in the presence of a manipulation attempt on a spray unit abruptly on the notes of value of the receiving area 12 is sprayed so that the notes of value are dyed with the dye and thus can not be circulated by the person performing the manipulation.

The cashbox 10 has a sensor unit 16 , which includes a variety of sensors, with their help manipulation attempts of the cashbox 10 are detectable. If a manipulation attempt is detected by at least one of these sensors, a control unit triggers 18 then the ink kit 14 out, so that this the banknotes of the receiving area 12 irreversibly colored. The sensor unit 16 includes in particular position sensors, with the help of the orientation of the cashbox 10 relative to the horizontal can be determined, acceleration sensors, shock sensors, with their help jerky loads the cashbox 10 are detectable, drilling sensors, with the help of the drilling of the housing of the cashbox 10 detectable, liquid sensors, gas sensors, sensors for detecting the opening of a lid of the cashbox 10 and / or sensors for determining the opening of a shutter of the cashbox 10 ,

Furthermore, the cashbox has 10 a connector 20 , with whose help the cashbox 10 a connector can be made with a complementary shaped connector of a device for handling bills and / or a docking station, so that on the trained connector data between the cashbox 10 and the device or the docking station can be replaced. In particular, via the connector 20 also the control unit 18 be transmitted when the cashbox 10 received in a device or docking station.

As related to below 2 in an exemplary money cycle 50 is described, the cashbox 10 during this money cycle 50 be operated in different operating conditions. Depending on the operating state, different sensors of the sensor unit 16 activated and deactivated. In this context, the deactivation of a sensor is understood to mean that it does not supply a signal at all and / or that the control unit 18 even if this sensor provides a signal, the validation unit 14 does not trigger. An activated sensor is thus understood conversely to mean that the devaluation unit 14 from the control unit 18 is triggered when the corresponding sensor sends a signal to the control unit 18 transmitted.

Furthermore, different timers can be set depending on the operating state. In this context, a timer is understood to be a time interval within which the cashbox has to be moved from the current operating state to another operating state, ie the time interval that is available for the current operating state. The time interval thus begins with the movement of the cashbox 10 in the corresponding operating state.

The cashbox 10 has a display unit 22 with a display area 24 , with the help of which each of the operating state in which the cashbox 10 is operated and possibly the timer of this operating condition to the operator of the cashbox 10 can be displayed. This has the advantage that the operator knows at any time, which operating state is activated, and thus also knows what actions they take with the cashbox 10 can run without the control unit 18 that the ink kit 14 triggers. Thus, in particular false triggering of the ink kit 14 avoided. Further, by displaying a possible timer, the operator knows how much time is left until they have performed the action for which this operating state is intended, and thus the cashbox 10 must have put in another operating condition.

The display unit 22 is particularly designed as a liquid crystal display (LCD), wherein the display area 24 is formed as a segment display with a predetermined number of predetermined symbols, over which the individual operating conditions, as described below in connection with the 3 to 15 described in more detail, can be displayed.

In 2 is the schematic representation of a money cycle 50 shown. In the money cycle 50 are an automatic cash register system 52 , an ATM 54 and a cash center 62 intended. If the cashbox 10 in the automatic POS system 52 or the ATM 54 in particular in a vault of the automatic checkout system 52 or the ATM 54 , is recorded, it is operated in so-called safe mode. In this safe mode is the ink kit 14 activated and, for example, all position sensors are also activated, so that when the location of the cashbox 10 changes, the control unit 18 the ink kit 14 triggers. During insertion of the cashbox 10 into the automatic POS system 52 or the ATM 54 is the cashbox 10 operated in particular in a so-called open-safe mode, as long as the safe door of the safe is opened. For this open-safe mode in particular a timer is preset, within which the safe door must be closed. If this is not the case, then the ink kit 14 from control unit 18 triggered.

During the shutter, the opening through which the banknotes when the cashbox 10 in the ATM 54 is added, the cashbox 10 can be removed and fed, opened or closed, is the cashbox 10 operated in particular in a so-called open-shutter mode, for which in turn a timer is preset, within which the Shutter must be fully opened or closed.

The transport between the automatic POS system 52 and the ATM 54 For example, in a transport case 64 respectively. While the cashbox 10 in the transport case 64 is received, in particular a so-called transport box mode is activated, in particular position sensors of the sensor unit 16 are disabled for the ink kit 14 does not fire when the cashbox 10 is kept awry.

Alternatively, the cashbox 10 also without transport case 64 between the automatic POS system 52 and the ATM 54 be transported. In this case, the cashbox is 10 operated in particular in a so-called transport mode, in which also the position sensors are deactivated. In contrast to the transport box mode, a timer is preferably preset within which the transport must take place.

In the cash center 62 is a docking station 66 provided in the cashbox 10 can be used while the cashbox 10 filled and / or emptied. The transport from the automatic POS system 52 or the ATM 54 to the cash center 62 can, for example, a value transport vehicle 58 . 60 done in which a rack 68 is arranged. While the cashbox 10 in this rack 68 is recorded, it is in particular operated in a so-called rack mode, in which preferably all sensors of the sensor unit 16 are activated.

The following will be related to the 3 to 15 described as the aforementioned operating conditions and other operating conditions using the display area 24 the display unit 22 in a simple way to the operator of the cashbox 10 can be displayed. Alternatively, the deviating symbols described below may also be used. Likewise, it is alternatively possible for the operating states to be displayed additionally, for example via texts and / or numbers, as an alternative to the symbols.

In 3 is a schematic representation of the display area 24 shown. The display area 24 includes six symbols 102 to 112 , where the fourth symbol 108 from two subsegments 114 . 116 and the second symbol 104 from five subsegments 120 to 136 is trained. In this case, a sub-segment is understood to mean segments 114 to 136 can be individually displayed and faded out, whereas in the other symbols 102 . 106 . 110 . 112 only the entire symbol 102 . 106 . 110 . 112 can be hidden or displayed.

The first symbol 102 has the form of a drop in which an exclamation point is located. This drop is intended to intuitively show that the ink kit is in the respective operating state 14 is activated. The first symbol 102 is displayed in all those operating conditions, as described in more detail below, in which the ink kit 14 is activated, ie where the Tintenkit 14 when the activated sensors of the sensor unit 16 provide a signal from the control unit 18 is triggered.

The second symbol 104 is in the form of nine rectangles 120 to 136 formed, which are arranged to a straight line. This second symbol 104 is used to display timers that may be preset for each operating state, with each of the rectangles 120 to 136 represents a part-time interval and the part-time intervals together form the entire time interval of the timer. The more rectangles 120 to 136 are displayed, the more time the timer remains for the operator. The current part-time interval 120 to 136 , ie the part-time interval that is currently running, is shown flashing in particular. In addition, the second icon 104 also be used to display configuration settings.

The third symbol 106 has the shape of a parking sign and is activated in all those operating conditions in which the cashbox 10 is cached in a container. This caching of the cashbox 10 Technical usage is also called "parking" the cashbox 10 designates, so that for the operator over the park symbol 106 intuitively the state of that cashbox 10 can be recognized.

The fourth symbol 108 has the shape of an arrow, this arrow being a first subsegment 114 , which has the shape of an arrowhead, and a second sub-segment 116 , which forms a tail of the arrow, includes. In the first subsegment, in particular the word "TRANFP." Is formed. Above the arrow symbol 108 the operator is shown that the cashbox 10 is operated in an operating state in which it can be transported. Thus, the operator knows in particular that the position sensors of the sensor unit 16 are disabled.

The fifth symbol 110 is designed in particular as the lettering "OFF", by which it should be displayed that the cashbox 10 is operated in an operating state in which it is deactivated, ie in which it is not intended for the reception of notes of value.

The sixth symbol 112 is designed in the form of a wrench, with this wrench symbol 112 should be displayed in an intuitive way that the cashbox 10 requires maintenance, in which context a maintenance can be understood that wear parts that need to be replaced regularly, currently need to be replaced, or that a defect of the cashbox 10 is present and thus the cashbox 10 can not continue to operate until this defect has been corrected.

Become all symbols 102 to 112 displayed, so is the cashbox 10 operated in the so-called inking mode, ie, that the ink kit 14 was triggered. In particular, in this case, the symbols 102 to 112 blinking, meaning that they are alternately displayed and hidden.

In 4 is a schematic representation of the display area 24 shown when the cashbox 10 is disabled. In this case, only the fifth symbol becomes 110 displayed.

5 shows the schematic representation of the display area 24 if the cashbox 10 is operated in the transport mode. In this case, the first symbol becomes 102 displayed, since in Transportm mode the ink kit 14 is activated. Further, the fourth symbol becomes 108 displayed, which should symbolize that the cashbox 10 can be transported. In addition, the second symbol becomes 104 or at least part of the subsegments 120 to 136 of the second symbol 104 indicated by the timer used for transporting the cashbox 10 is available.

In 6 is a schematic representation of the display area 24 while operating the cashbox 10 shown in open shutter mode. Also in open shutter mode are the first symbol 102 and the fourth symbol 108 as well as the second symbol 104 displayed. Unlike the transport mode after 5 but the two subsegments are flashing 114 . 116 of the fourth symbol 108 alternately on. Further, in the transport mode and the open-shutter mode, in particular, different timers are set, so that at the beginning of the respective modes, a different number of sub-segments 120 to 136 of the second symbol 104 are displayed and / or individual sub-segments 120 to 136 or at least part of the individual subsegments 120 to 136 stands for different part-time intervals.

In 7 is a schematic representation of the display area 24 shown in open safe mode. Open Safe mode becomes the first symbol 102 and the second symbol 104 displayed. The first symbol 102 again shows that the ink kit 14 is activated, whereas the second symbol 104 indicates the remaining time available to close the safe door.

8th shows a schematic representation of the display area 24 in safe mode, with the safe mode only the symbol 102 is shown. Since no timer is preset in safe mode, unlike open-safe mode, it will stop 7 , over the second icon 104 no timer is displayed.

In 9 is a schematic representation of the display area 24 shown in rack mode. The rack mode is indicated by the display of the first icon 102 and the third symbol 106 symbolizes.

10 shows a schematic representation of the display area 24 in transport box mode, this transport box mode being by displaying the first icon 102 , the second symbol 104 , the third symbol 106 and the fourth symbol 108 is symbolized.

In 11 is another schematic representation of the display area 24 shown. This will be the first icon 102 , the second symbol 104 , the fourth symbol 108 and the sixth symbol 112 shown. Thus, over the display area 24 indicated that the cashbox 10 in transport mode and additional maintenance is required.

12 shows a further schematic representation of the display area 24 , where on the one hand the first symbol 102 and the third symbol 106 and on the other the sixth symbol 112 are displayed. The combination of the first symbol 102 and the third symbol 106 symbolizes that the cashbox 10 in rack mode. The sixth symbol 112 symbolizes in turn that maintenance is necessary.

13 shows a further schematic representation of a display area 24 , where the fifth symbol 110 and the sixth symbol 112 are displayed. Thus, the cashbox is located 10 in deactivated mode and maintenance is required.

14 shows a further schematic representation of the display area 24 where the first symbol 102 and the sixth symbol 112 are displayed. Thus, over the in 14 Display shown symbolizes that the cashbox 10 is operated in safe mode and maintenance is necessary.

Overall, the sixth icon 112 along with all related to the 4 to 10 described combinations of symbols 102 to 110 are displayed, with the icons 102 to 110 respectively the operating state of the cashbox 10 and over the sixth icon 112 indicating that maintenance is necessary. Becomes the sixth symbol 112 permanently displayed, so must at least one wearing part of the cashbox 10 be replaced. Flashes the sixth icon 112 On the other hand, there is a defect.

In 15 is a schematic representation of the display area 24 during a configuration mode of the cashbox 10 shown. By configuration is meant in particular that different settings of the cashbox 10 For example, the various timers of the various operating states must be set. At the delivery of the cashbox 10 In particular, the custom timers are not pre-set, so the cashbox 10 can only be operated if this is done by the operator of the cashbox 10 is done.

During configuration mode, the fifth icon becomes 110 displayed permanently, so that the operator knows that the cashbox 10 can not be operated yet. In addition, at least one subsegment 120 to 136 of the second symbol 104 displayed, with different sub-segments 120 to 136 for various settings of the cashbox yet to be configured 10 stand.

Will be the first subsegment 120 displayed, so in particular is the process for which the cashbox 10 is determined, not yet configured. Will the third subsegment 124 is displayed, then the timer is for transport in the transport case 64 provided, not yet configured. Displaying the fifth subsegment 128 symbolizes that an alarm timer has not yet been configured. Before a timer expires, the expiry of the timer is output to the operator via an acoustic signal, the so-called alarm signal. The alarm timer indicates in which time interval before the expiry of the corresponding timer this audible alarm signal is output.

The display of the seventh subsegment 132 symbolizes that the timer within which the safe door must be closed in open safe mode has not yet been configured. Accordingly, the display of the ninth subsegment shows 136 that the timer is responsible for transporting the cashbox 10 without transport case 64 , ie for transport in transport mode 5 , is available, not yet configured.

At the in 15 Thus, the previously described configurations have not yet taken place, since all five sub-segments 120 . 124 . 128 . 132 . 136 are displayed. If, on the other hand, some of the corresponding configurations have already been made, the subsegments become 120 . 124 . 128 . 132 . 136 that symbolize these configurations are no longer displayed. When all configurations are done, as in 4 shown, none of the subsegments 120 to 136 of the second symbol 104 displayed so that the cashbox 10 is operated in the deactivated operating state, but could be operated at any time by activation.

In this way can easily by the use of every second subsegment 120 to 136 of the second symbol 104 which configurations have not yet been displayed.

Overall, by the previously related to the 3 to 15 described display of the individual operating states achieved that with the help of only six symbols 102 to 112 in an intuitive way the individual operating states as well as their activated sensors and parameter settings of the ink kit 14 can be displayed. Thus, a simple, space-saving construction of the display unit 22 guaranteed.

In 16 is a schematic representation of the display area shown, with only the second symbol 104 is shown. The first four subsegments 120 to 128 each have the same first size, the subsegments 128 to 132 in each case the same second size and the sub-segments 134 . 136 each have the same third size. The four subsegments 120 to 126 each symbolize the same preset time, in particular a time interval of 15 seconds. The subsegments 128 to 132 in turn, each symbolize in turn the same preset time interval, this preset time interval having in particular a value of 300 seconds. The subsegments 134 to 136 however, preferably symbolize depending on the operating state of the cashbox 10 , in particular depending on the preset timer different values, which are calculated as follows.

During configuration, the entire time interval of the respective timer is preset. The subsegment 136 symbolizes a part-time interval that corresponds to half the total time interval. The part-time interval that passes through the sub-segment 134 is thus calculated by dividing the entire configured time interval by two, and from the result the fixed preset time intervals, which are divided by the subsegments 120 to 130 symbolized, subtracted. Thus, the currently available timer can be displayed in a simple manner.

In an alternative embodiment, the entire time interval may be applied to the individual subsegments after rules other than those described above 120 to 136 be split. Furthermore, the sub-segments 120 to 136 Alternatively, they all have the same size.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

cashbox

12

reception area

14

Tintenkit

16

sensor unit

18

control unit

20

Connectors

22

display unit

24

display area

50

Circulation of money

52

automatic POS system

54

ATM

58, 60

Cash in transit vehicle

62

Cash Center

64

Carrying case

66

Docking station

68

rack

102 to 112

symbol

114 to 136

subsegment

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• US 20030071048 A1 [0007]
• US Pat. No. 6,974,634 B2 [0008]

Claims (22)

Cashbox, with a receiving area ( 12 ) for the acceptance of banknotes, a devaluation unit ( 14 ) for the irreversible stamping in the receiving area ( 12 ), a control unit ( 18 ) for controlling the devaluation unit ( 14 ), the control unit ( 18 ) depending on the current operating state of the cashbox ( 10 ) at least one parameter of the activation of the devaluation unit ( 14 ) and with a display unit ( 22 ) for displaying information to an operator of the cashbox ( 10 ), characterized in that the control unit ( 18 ) the display unit ( 22 ) such that the display unit ( 22 ) at least the current operating state of the cashbox ( 10 ). Cashbox ( 10 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that a first operating state and at least a second operating state are preset, that the cashbox ( 10 ) is operated in the first operating state, and that by means of the display unit ( 22 ) Information that the cashbox ( 10 ) is operated in the first operating state, are displayed. Cashbox ( 10 ) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the display unit ( 22 ) comprises a display, in particular a liquid crystal display (LCD). Cashbox ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the current operating state via a display area ( 24 ) of the display unit ( 22 ), and that this display area is in the form of at least two segments ( 102 to 112 ) is formed comprehensive segment display. Cashbox ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a first operating state in which the cashbox ( 10 ) is operated when placed in an ATM ( 54 ), an automatic POS system ( 52 ) or an automatic cash deposit is inserted and a vault door of the ATM ( 54 ), the automatic checkout system ( 52 ) or the automatic cash deposit is closed, a second operating state in which the cash box ( 10 ) is operated when placed in an ATM ( 52 ), an automatic POS system ( 54 ) or an automatic cash deposit is inserted and a vault door of the ATM ( 52 ), the automatic checkout system ( 54 ) or the automatic cash box is open, a third operating condition in which the cash box ( 10 ) when placed in a carrying case ( 64 ), a fourth operating state in which the cashbox ( 10 ) is operated when placed in a rack ( 68 ) to the cache of cash cassettes ( 10 ), a fifth operating state in which the cashbox ( 10 ) is operated, when it is deactivated, a sixth operating state in which the cash box ( 10 ) is configured, when configured, a seventh operating state in which the cash box ( 10 ), if the devaluation unit ( 14 ), an eighth operating state in which the cash box ( 10 ) is operated without a transport container ( 64 ) and / or a ninth operating state in which it is operated when a closure unit for closing an opening of the cashbox ( 10 ) through which the cashbox ( 10 ) Notes of value can be fed and / or removed when the cash box ( 10 ) in an ATM ( 54 ), an automatic POS system ( 52 ) or an automatic cash deposit is inserted, closed or opened, are preset. Cashbox ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the preset operating states in each case unambiguously a symbol ( 102 to 112 ) and / or a combination of at least two symbols ( 102 to 112 ) and that the symbol ( 102 to 112 ) or combination ( 102 to 112 ), which is assigned to the current operating state, via the display unit ( 22 ) is displayed. Cashbox ( 10 ) according to claim 6, characterized in that each operating state has its own symbol ( 102 to 112 ) is uniquely assigned. Cashbox ( 10 ) according to claim 6, characterized in that one of the operating states is a first symbol ( 102 to 112 ) and that another of the operating states is a combination of the first symbol ( 102 to 112 ) and a second symbol ( 102 to 112 ) assigned. Cashbox ( 10 ) according to one of claims 6 to 9, characterized in that at least one symbol ( 102 to 112 ) comprises at least one letter, in particular at least one of the associated operating state characterizing word. Cashbox ( 10 ) according to one of claims 5 to 9, characterized in that the first operating state by a first symbol ( 102 ), the second operating state by the combination of the first symbol ( 102 ) and a second symbol ( 104 ), the third operating state by the combination of the first symbol ( 102 ), the second Symbols ( 104 ), a third symbol ( 106 ) and a fourth symbol ( 108 ), the fourth operating state by the combination of the first symbol ( 102 ) and the third symbol ( 106 ), the fifth operating state by a fifth symbol ( 110 ), the sixth operating state by the combination of the second symbol ( 104 ) and the fifth symbol ( 110 ), the seventh operating state by the combination of the first, second, third, fourth and fifth symbols ( 102 to 110 ), the eighth operating state by the combination of the first symbol ( 102 ), the second symbol ( 104 ) and the fourth symbol ( 108 ) and / or the ninth operating state by the combination of the first symbol ( 102 ), the second symbol ( 104 ) and the fourth symbol ( 108 ), whereby two partial segments ( 114 . 116 ) of the fourth symbol ( 108 ) are displayed alternately, can be displayed. Cashbox ( 10 ) according to claim 10, characterized in that the first symbol ( 102 ) the shape of a drop, the second symbol ( 104 ) the shape of a plurality of rectangles ( 120 to 136 ), the third symbol ( 106 ) the shape of a parking sign, the fourth symbol ( 108 ) the shape of an arrow and / or the fifth symbol ( 110 ) has the word "OFF". Cashbox ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that by means of the display unit ( 22 ) Information about a necessary maintenance can be displayed. Cashbox ( 10 ) according to claim 12, characterized in that the display area ( 24 ) to display a necessary maintenance another sixth symbol ( 112 ), which in particular has the form of a wrench comprises. Cashbox ( 10 ) according to claim 13, characterized in that the control unit ( 18 ) the display unit ( 22 ) such that the sixth symbol ( 112 ) is permanently displayed if a wearing part of the validation unit ( 14 ) and that the control unit ( 18 ) the display unit ( 22 ) such that the sixth symbol ( 112 ) flashes when the cashbox ( 10 ) is defective. Cashbox ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the operating states is assigned a preset time interval which starts with the activation of this operating state and after which the control unit ( 18 ) the devaluation unit ( 14 ), and that this time interval is indicated by a timer symbol ( 104 ) of the display area ( 24 ) is displayed when the corresponding operating state is activated. Cashbox ( 10 ) according to claim 15, characterized in that by means of the timer symbol ( 104 ) the remaining time is displayed step by step. Cashbox ( 10 ) according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that the timer symbol ( 104 ) one of the symbols ( 102 to 112 ) is to display the operating conditions. Cashbox ( 10 ) according to one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that the timer symbol ( 104 ) at least two, preferably nine, arranged to a straight line rectangles ( 120 to 136 ) that each rectangle ( 120 to 136 ) symbolizes a pre-set part-time interval, and that the sum of all part-time intervals corresponds to the preset time interval. Cashbox ( 10 ) according to claim 18, characterized in that at least two rectangles ( 120 to 126 ) have the same first size that at least one rectangle ( 128 to 132 ) has a second size different from the first size, that rectangles ( 120 to 132 ) of the same size each symbolize the same part-time interval, and that rectangles ( 120 to 132 ) of different sizes symbolize different part-time intervals. Cashbox ( 10 ) according to one of claims 15 to 19, characterized in that at least two operating states are assigned different time intervals, and that at the beginning of these two operating states, a different number of rectangles ( 120 to 136 ) of the timer symbol ( 104 ) is displayed. Cashbox ( 10 ) according to claim 20, characterized in that the respective rectangles ( 120 to 136 ) of the timer symbol ( 104 ) always symbolize the same part-time interval regardless of the current operating state. Cashbox ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a plurality of sensors ( 16 ) for detecting a manipulation attempt of the cashbox ( 10 ) and that the control unit ( 18 ) as a parameter for the activation of the devaluation unit ( 14 ) depending on the operating state in each case a subset of the sensors ( 16 ) and the remaining sensors ( 16 ) disabled.

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