DE202017006741U1 - Multifunctional cash detection system - Google Patents

Abstract

A multi-functional cash metering system (100) comprising a mobile cash meter (1) having a housing (10) with cash detection means (20) located therein for detecting cash carried by the housing (10), and at least one separately formed cash storage containers (3, 3a, 3b, 3c) in which cash is storable, characterized in that the cash counting unit (1) with the cash storage container (3, 3a, 3b, 3c) is non-destructively coupled non-destructively ,

Description

The invention relates to a multifunctional cash detection system comprising a mobile, in particular portable, cash counting unit, which has a housing with a cash detection device arranged therein for detecting cash guided through the housing, and at least one separately formed cash storage container in which Cash, especially not accessible to third parties, storable or landfillable.

Such cash detection systems are known in a variety of configurations and applications, especially in banking are mobile, that is portable and carryable cash counting units, or called money counting machines, used with a respective collecting container arranged thereon. Due to the portable design, the cash counting unit is particularly short-term and versatile. In a cash counting unit known from the prior art, the cash for counting is usually sent by the cash counting unit and then collected in the collecting bin and provided for removal. If a permanent storage or deposit of the cash is to take place, then the cash is manually, that is, by hand, to remove from the container and in a separate storage container, such as a money box to introduce. However, a manipulation of the cash amount can not be excluded. Furthermore, it is disadvantageous that only information about the amount of cash currently counted by means of the cash counting unit and to be introduced into the storage container can be made available by means of the cash counting unit, but not information about the total amount actually or actually present in the storage container.

In addition, such cash counting units are known, which are permanently fixed to a storage container. However, the cash counting unit can only be used for this one storage tank.

A disadvantage of the known systems is thus in particular that the cash for a permanent storage, for example, for a Ansparvorhaben, after a count either manually again, that is, by hand, must be transferred to the money box or the storage container, or that each Savings box must have a counting unit, whereby the production of the money box is relatively expensive and therefore the money box itself is relatively expensive. This is particularly disadvantageous in the case of several separate savings projects of one saver person or several saver persons, such as children, due to the increased initial investment.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a cash detection system which improves at least one of the abovementioned disadvantages and, in particular, a multifunctional application possibility, especially of the relatively expensive components on several different, in particular separate and independent, savings containers, a significant reduction of the production and / or initial investment costs.

The invention solves the problem by a cash detection system with the features of the main claim. Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention are disclosed in the subclaims, the description and the figures.

According to the invention, the cash counting unit is non-destructively coupled with the cash storage container in a non-destructive manner. This makes it possible that only a single - due to the technology arranged therein - relatively expensive cash counting unit is required for several separate and independently existing money boxes or cash storage containers, so that especially for several parallel savings project, the investment costs for the cash collection relatively low could be. As a result, the cash counting unit according to the invention can advantageously be redepositable, that is to say exchangeable, optionally to a multiplicity of identical or differently designed cash storage containers. For example, the cash counting unit may be coupled to money collecting containers such as donation or money boxes, toys such as money collecting toys, other housing devices such as cash boxes, other devices such as cash machines and / or the like. As a result, both a particularly cost-effective production of a variety of savings can variants, as well as a particularly rapid replacement and / or exchange of a cash storage container, as well as a particularly wide range of use of the cash counting unit allows. For example, in a household with three child-care boxes, only a single cash-counting unit is required to collect the cash introduced into the respective money-box. The acquisition and counting of the cash by means of the cash counting unit can in principle be done mechanically or electronically. The mutual coupling of the cash counting unit and the cash storage container is preferably carried out such that in a coupled state, the cash counting unit and the cash storage container are arranged in a predefined and at least temporarily fixed position to each other. This ensures that the cash passed through the counting unit safely and reliably reaches the storage container. The cash storage container can, as already mentioned, be designed as a money box, in particular as a Container with a plurality of housing walls forming an interior. The outer shape or shape of the cash storage container may be arbitrarily formed, for example, as a model form of a real existing thing, such as a vehicle, living thing or building. The interior of the cash storage container may be substantially closed on all sides and accessible only via at least one closable recess. For example, the cash-storage container may have a closure lid which can be removed only by means of a key and which is preferably removable for coupling the cash-storage container with the cash-counting unit or for manually withdrawing cash from the storage container. As a result, piggy banks known per se for children can be used for mutually coupling with the cash meter, so that the household cash picking system may include, for example, a single cash meter and an unlimited variety of cash storages.

Preferably, the cash counter and the cash storage container each comprise at least one mechanical interface for fixing the cash counter to the cash storage container. The interfaces are preferably formed corresponding to one another, for example as a plug-in or latching connection. For example, an outwardly protruding catch can be arranged on the cash counting unit, in particular on the housing of the cash counting unit, which is used to fix the cash counting unit to the cash storage container in or behind a corresponding recess formed on the cash storage container , Wall section or undercut can be brought into engagement. As a result, the cash counting unit and the cash storage container are arranged in a coupled state in a predefined and at least temporarily fixed position relative to one another, so that a direct and reliable transport of the cash passed through the counting unit into the storage container can be ensured.

Preferably, the cash counter and the cash storage container each comprise at least one electrical interface for electrically coupling the cash counter to the cash storage container. The electrical interface may include at least one electrical contact, plug, or the like. This allows information to be exchanged between the cash meter and the cash storage container. In particular, an identification of a respective cash storage container coupled to the cash counting unit can take place at the cash counting unit, so that, for example, an allocation of a certain amount of money to a respective cash storage container is made possible at the cash counting unit. Further, by identifying a respective cash storage container, for example, an amount of money already present in the cash storage container can be retrieved. As a result, in particular a plurality of parallel, separate and mutually independently implemented savings projects can be managed in a relatively simple manner by means of the cash counting unit. The electrical interface can also be used for example to connect the cash meter and / or the cash storage container with an external device, such as a computer or a smartphone. In principle, it is also possible for an electrical interface to be provided only at the cash counting unit or at the cash storage container, for example for identifying the cash counting unit or the cash storage container at an external device. This is advantageous, for example, when using the system using only a single storage container, in particular for enabling a particularly cost-effective detection system.

Preferably, the cash-detecting device comprises at least one cash-guiding slot extending through the housing for inserting coins and / or banknotes, wherein the cash-guiding slot preferably has a cash detector for detecting coins and / or notes carried by the cash-guiding slot is arranged. Thereby, the cash introduced by the cash counter into the cash storage container can be automatically and thus counted in a particularly simple manner. For this purpose, the cash guide slot preferably has an opening or passage suitable for coins and / or notes. The cash detector can basically be designed as a means known per se for detecting coins and / or notes.

Preferably, the cash detector for detecting coins comprises an induction coil, a light barrier and / or a camera. The induction coil and / or loop has an induced electrical voltage, for example, when passing through a metallic coin. As a result, the detection and detection of coins can take place in a particularly simple manner. Additionally or alternatively, the cash detector may comprise at least one light barrier, which detects a coin or note recognition, for example by scanning the size of the imported cash, in particular for measuring a diameter of a coin, or by detecting a temporal fall duration of the coin over a previously defined Distance. For example, the duration of an interruption of the light barrier signal caused by a coin in free fall is proportional to the diameter of a coin, so that the duration of a coin Interruption to the respective coin diameter and from this to the respective coin can be closed. Furthermore, by means of the light barrier, for example, the duration of the fall of a coin can be detected, wherein the fall duration can be used to determine a respective coin. The latter can be done for example by comparing the currently recorded case duration with previously defined, stored in a data store and / or listed in a comparison table case durations of each expected cash coins. As a result, a relatively secure detection and assignment of a coin can take place, in particular falsifications or counterfeit coins can be detected. Furthermore, in addition or alternatively, a detection by means of a camera can take place. In this case, the inserted coin, in particular in a plan view, for example, be photographed by the camera and the image thus generated are compared with, for example, stored in a memory mappings of coins. As a result, a multiplicity of coins or notes, in particular originating from different currencies, can be detected. Furthermore, counterfeit money can be detected in a particularly secure manner as well as new launches of coins or notes - or on novel counterfeits - are reacted relatively quickly and easily, for example by the image files are updateable in the memory. Such an update can be done, for example, as part of a software update over the Internet. The data store used for the comparison in the above examples does not necessarily have to be arranged on the cash meter or on the cash storage bin, but alternatively can also be arranged in a network, in particular a computer, server or a cloud. Of course, a combined application of the previously described embodiments of the cash detector is possible, in particular in the manner of a neural network. This ensures a particularly error-free and secure cash collection.

Preferably, the cash counting unit and / or the cash storage container comprises an integrated circuit, a computer processor, a data memory, a USB interface and / or a network interface. This can be done in particular a management of one or more cash storage containers or realized with this or these savings project. In particular, the cash counting unit and / or the cash storage container can calculate a total cash amount in each case in the cash storage container and store this information in the form of electrical data, for example in a dedicated data memory. Additionally or alternatively, these and / or other information from the cash counting unit and / or the cash storage container via the USB interface and / or network interface can be forwarded to an external computer. This allows a savings project on a computer, tablet or smartphone to be managed and tracked in a particularly simple manner. The network interface can be designed, for example, as a standardized cable or radio network interface, in particular as a WiFi module or a so-called Bluetooth interface. As a result, implementation of the cash counting unit and / or the cash storage containers in an already existing network can take place in a particularly simple and cost-effective manner.

The cash counting unit and / or the cash storage container preferably has a battery for self-sufficient power supply, a loudspeaker and / or a microphone. As a result, the cash counting unit and / or the cash storage container can also be operated without an external power supply. In particular, a supply of the electrical components with electrical voltage as well as an input and / or output of information can take place. For example, information about a cash detected by means of the cash counting unit can be output via the loudspeaker. By way of example, the microphone can be used to enter information, such as a correction, with regard to a cash amount to be detected by means of the cash counting unit or another activation of the cash counting unit. This enables a particularly simplified operation and application of the cash counting unit.

The cash storage container preferably has a storage housing with at least one side wall at which the cash counting unit can be coupled to the cash storage container and at which at least one recess for carrying out cash is formed. Particularly preferably, the cash storage container is designed as a money box, in particular as a container with a plurality of housing walls forming an interior. The interior can be closed by the side walls substantially on all sides and be accessible only from the outside, for example, by the recess formed, for example, on the side wall facing the cash counting unit. As a result, in particular in the coupled state of the cash Storage container with the cash counter unit falling out and / or taking out cash from the cash storage container can be effectively prevented.

Particularly preferably, the recess can be closed or covered by means of a lid mounted on the cash storage container or storage housing, in particular displaceably or rotatably mounted. Thereby, even in the uncoupled state of the cash storage container with the cash counting unit, falling out and / or taking out of cash from the cash storage container can be effectively prevented. The lid may for example be mounted on the cash storage container such that it is foldable or pivotable in the direction of the interior of the cash storage container. Alternatively, the lid can for example be slidably mounted on an outer wall of the cash storage container, and in particular in an open state, the recess releasably laterally adjacent to the recess and in a closed state, the recess be arranged covering or closing. The twisting or shifting of the lid can be done for example by hand. In a further alternative embodiment, the cover may be formed separately, and be placed on the recess for closing the recess under engagement with at least one surrounding the recess side wall of the cash storage container. Furthermore, the lid - regardless of its design - for example, to avoid opening of the cash storage container by unauthorized persons be provided with a closing device. The locking device can comprise, for example, a lock, a bolt or the like, wherein the locking device can only be operated via an operating element, such as a key, a numeric code input, a fingerprint or another release signal. Thus, for example, the closure lid for coupling the cash storage container with the cash counting unit or for manually withdrawing cash from the storage container can be opened mechatronically only by means of a key manually or via a numeric code entry. Furthermore, automatic opening of the cover is made possible when the cash storage container is coupled to a cash deposit machine and a release signal sent from the cash payment machine to the cash storage container.

Preferably, the lid is arranged and supported on the cash storage container such that the lid for releasing the recess upon insertion of the cash counter onto the cash storage container and for closing the recess upon removal of the cash counter from the cash storage container automatically shifts becomes. This enables a particularly simplified operation and application of the cash counting unit. This can be achieved in particular by a spring-loaded or prestressed cover. For example, in the case of a lid rotatably or pivotally mounted on the cash storage container in the direction of the interior, the lid can be biased by means of a spring element in the direction of the closed position of the lid. The automatic opening of the lid can be done in this case by means of at least one corresponding to the cash counting unit arranged projection. For example, an outward protrusion on the cash counting unit, that is, toward a side wall of the cash storage container to be coupled, can come into engagement with the cover when the cash counting unit is set on the cash storage container and against the spring force Press direction of the interior of the cash storage tank. When removing the cash counter from the cash storage container, the lid can be automatically pushed back to the closed position by the spring force. Alternatively, the at least one projection of the cash counting unit may be, for example, wedge-shaped and, when placed on the cash storage container, displace the lid substantially parallel to the side wall of the cash storage container to be coupled.

Preferably, the housing of the cash counting unit has a length and width, each about the length and width of a check card, in particular a length of about 85mm and a width of about 54mm, and a depth, the amount about 1/5 of the width and / or less than the diameter of a coin to be detected, in particular a depth of about 10mm. As a result, the cash counting unit can also be used for a mobile application on the move, for example, for the automatic counting of coins. As a result, the cash counting unit can be used in many ways and can also be used, for example, to record cash in or in a wallet.

For operating and / or managing a plurality of separate savings projects with a multifunctional cash detection system comprising a cash counting unit having a housing with a cash detecting means arranged therein for detecting cash, and at least one separately formed cash storage container, in the cash at least can be temporarily stored, wherein the cash counter unit is releasably coupled to the cash storage container, the following steps can be provided:

Mechanical and electrical coupling of the cash counter with a first cash storage container. This can be done by engaging a mechanical and an electrical interface, for example, by placing the cash counter on the first cash storage container and engaging a detent of the mechanical interface.

This is followed first by identifying and reading out a data memory of the first cash storage container by means of the cash counting unit. As a result, an allocation of the cash storage container, as well as optionally retrieve the currently existing in the first cash storage container cash inventory done.

In a next step, coins and / or banknotes are introduced into the cash counting unit with the cash being forwarded to the cash storage container. Here, the coins and / or banknotes introduced into the cash counting unit are detected by means of the cash detection device, for example by an induction coil. The information about the detected coins and / or banknotes is buffered in the form of data in a data memory of the cash counting unit, in particular for a subsequent calculation of the total cash amount in the first cash storage container by adding the detected and buffered amount to the optional amount read. The calculation may be performed by means of a calculation program arranged in the cash counting unit, in the storage container and / or on a separate input / output device, such as a tablet, smartphone or computer. For this purpose, a data connection between the cash counting unit and the respective component for the calculation can be established via a network interface.

Subsequently, at least the data which contains information about the calculated total cash amount and / or about the recorded and temporarily stored amount is stored in a data memory of the cash counting unit and / or the cash storage container, in particular under assignment of an identification number of the first cash -Speicherbehälter. Then, the cash counter can be decoupled from the first cash storage bin and then optionally coupled to another cash storage bin for re-executing the aforementioned process steps.

It is preferably provided that at any time an output on an electrical display and / or a transmission via a data interface to a separate input / output device, in particular a tablet or smartphone, a computer and / or server at least those data can be done, which Information about a cash amount read out from a cash storage container, a cash amount currently registered by the cash counter and inserted into the cash storage container, and / or a total cash amount in the cash storage container. Before transferring the data, it is advantageous to establish a network connection to the input / output device or computer via an internal network or the Internet.

Further, optionally, after transferring the data to an input / output device or a server, logically linking the data to a user account, such as a bank account, wherein the information about the total cash amount and / or the amount of a respective cash storage container assigned to this user account, displayed and further processed.

After the detection of a coin and / or banknote introduced into the cash counting unit, it is preferably possible for a sound signal predefined to the respective value of the detected coin or banknote to be output via a loudspeaker. Alternatively or additionally, further information can be output via the loudspeaker, for example a low battery charging status.

Furthermore, after the detection of a coin and / or banknote introduced into the cash counting unit, an acoustic input of a signal predefined to the respective value of the detected coin or banknote can optionally be effected via a microphone. As a result, for example, a misrecognition of a coin or note can be corrected by an acoustic input. For example, if a one-euro coin is inserted and an acoustic issue of an erroneous value, such as "2-Euro", is made, an acoustic input of the corrected value, namely "1-Euro", may be made. This allows both control of the amount of money collected and a correction of this.

After the detection of a coin and / or banknote introduced into the cash counting unit, data transmission to an input / output device, and the acoustic output and / or the acoustic input, for example of a coin or banknote which has been respectively entered into the respective value, are particularly preferred acoustic signal, then by means of the input / output device. As a result, the cash counting unit can be produced particularly cost-effectively with the same functional scope.

For paying out the cash in the cash storage container, the cash storage container is preferably coupled with a cash deposit machine, such as an automatic teller machine, and particularly preferably a clearing of the paid cash with a customer account or credit. As a result, the cash in an automatic and very secure manner, in particular tamper-free, be paid from the cash storage container directly into a cash machine. It can with the deposit of the Cash, for example, a payment process take place, for example, at a cash machine at a gas station or a supermarket. Alternatively, cash can be deposited with an ATM and the amount credited, for example, to an account. This allows a particularly simple and secure action with the cash in the cash storage container.

• 1 - eine erste Ausgestaltung des erfindungsgemäßen Bargeld-Erfassungssystem in einer perspektivischen, teilweise transparenten Ansicht;
• 2 - eine weitere Ausgestaltung des erfindungsgemäßen Bargeld-Erfassungssystem in einer perspektivischen, teilweise transparenten Ansicht; und
• 3 - die Ablaufvorgänge bei einem Verfahren zum Verwalten mehrerer separater Sparvorhaben.

An exemplary embodiment of the invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the figures. They show schematically:

• 1 a first embodiment of the cash detection system according to the invention in a perspective, partially transparent view;
• 2 a further embodiment of the cash detection system according to the invention in a perspective, partially transparent view; and
• 3 - the procedures in a process for managing several separate savings projects.

In the 1 is a first possible embodiment of the multifunctional cash detection system according to the invention 100 with a first embodiment of a cash counting unit 1 and a first embodiment of a cash storage container 3 shown. The term "multifunctional" is to be understood as meaning that the cash detection system 100 a variety of separate and independent cash savings projects and their particularly simple management allows, in particular by the mobile cash counting unit 1 and an unlimited number of with the cash counter 1 dockable cash storage containers 3 is realized. In the in 1 shown, particularly preferred embodiment, the cash counting unit 1 a length and width, each corresponding substantially to the length and width of a check card, in particular a length of about 85mm and a width of about 54mm, and a depth whose amount is less than the diameter of a coin to be detected, in particular a depth of about 10mm.

The cash storage container 3 is constructed as a money box and includes in particular a storage enclosure 30 which has an interior 34 surrounds, in which cash is at least temporarily storable. The interior 34 is via two slot slots for introducing cash into the interior 34 , in this case the recesses 32a and 32b , as well as an opening 35 for withdrawing cash from the interior 34 accessible from outside. At least the opening 35 is by means of a closure lid 36 lockable designed so that the cash is not from the interior 34 can fall out. In the present case is the cap 36 provided with a known locking lock and can by means of a device not shown for closing the opening 35 on the storage enclosure 30 be locked so that the opening 35 can only be opened by means of a key, not shown, for the lock. In practice, it is possible that the means for opening or removing the closure lid 36 , in particular the key for the lock, are only accessible to a certain group of persons, for example a holder of the money-box, a parent or guardian of children or even a bank employee of a banking institution in which the cash-storage container 3 introduced cash is a solvable. For example, this can be done in the cash storage container 3 introduced cash already while inserting the cash into the cash counter 1 and automatically credited to a previously assigned bank account upon collection of the respective amount and with withdrawal of the cash from the cash storage container 3 can be offset by the bank staff with the credit to the bank account. Alternatively or additionally, a machine, such as an ATM, a suitable receiving device for at least partially receiving the cash storage container 3 and the means for opening or removing the closure lid 36 so that the cash storage container 3 can be automatically emptied at such an ATM and optionally the withdrawn cash can be credited to a previously defined account in the manner described above.

The outer shape or shape of the storage enclosure 30 can be configured arbitrarily, for example, as a model form of a real existing thing, such as a vehicle, living thing or building. Only in the area of a side wall 31 of the storage enclosure 30 to which the storage enclosure 30 or the cash storage container 3 with the cash counting unit 1 can be coupled, has the storage enclosure 30 one to the cash counter 1 corresponding side wall surface 31 on. Present are on the side wall 31 the respective slot-shaped recesses 32a . 32b for introducing cash into the interior 34 arranged. The first recess 32a is used to insert coins, the second recess 32b for introducing banknotes or bills. Basically it is possible that the interior 34 through one in the area between the first recess 32a and the second recess 32b arranged, not shown dividing wall is divided into two separate interior parts, for example, for separating coins and banknotes or for separating two separate savings project by means of a cash storage container 3 ,

To decoupled cash counter 1 accidental falling out of cash through the recesses 32a . 32b from the interior 34 To avoid is on the sidewall 31 in the area of the recesses 32a . 32b in addition a lid 33 arranged to close the recesses 32a . 32b parallel to the side wall 31 in front of the recesses 32a . 32b can be moved. To avoid the lid 33 at docked cash counter 1 in front of the recesses 32a . 32b is located, an opening means not shown may be provided which an automatic opening, in particular a displacement of the lid 33 when setting up and coupling the cash counting unit 1 with the cash storage container 3 causes. This can be done, for example, by one at the cash counting unit 1 arranged, not shown in detail projection, be realized. For automatically closing the recesses 32a . 32b when removing the cash counter 1 from the cash storage tank 3 is the lid 33 particularly preferably in the direction of a recess 32a . 32b closing closed position biased by a spring element, not shown.

The cash counter 1 serves to capture the into the cash storage container 3 introduced cash. This can be done in the cash storage tank 3 introduced cash to be detected and the value of the detected cash be further processed by means of optional additional components. As a result, for example, the entire contents of the cash storage container 3 recorded and at the cash counter 1 or another input / output device. For at least temporary fixing of the cash counting unit 1 at the cash storage tank 3 is on the sidewall 31 in addition a mechanical interface 38 formed, in particular a recess with a, formed for example by a web or a wall, not shown undercut, in which when putting the cash counting unit 1 on the cash storage tank 3 one at the cash counter 1 arranged and correspondingly formed, in particular hook-shaped projection 18 engaged. To reset the cash counter 1 from the cash storage tank 3 For example, a manual displacement of the projection 18 or the wall forming the undercut.

For additional electrical coupling of the cash meter 1 with the cash storage container 3 is on the sidewall 31 in addition an electrical interface 39 educated. The electrical interface 39 comprises at least one electrical contact element and may be formed, for example, as a plug connection. In the present embodiment arrives - similar to the mechanical interface - when putting the cash counting unit 1 on the cash storage tank 3 one at the cash counter 1 arranged and correspondingly formed, in particular an electrical connector pin exhibiting projection 19 in engagement with the electrical interface 39 For example, a sleeve contact for receiving the plug pins 19 , It should be clear that the mechanical interfaces 18 . 38 as well as the electrical interfaces 19 . 39 Although always corresponding to each other, but may be constructed arbitrarily in the design and arrangement.

The cash counter 1 includes a housing 10 which has an interior 11 surrounds, that of at least one cash-guide slot 12a . 12b is penetrated and in which the components described below for collecting and further processing cash information are arranged.

The first cash-guide slot 12a serves for inserting and detecting coins, the second cash-guide slot 12b for introducing and collecting banknotes. At each of the Cash Guide slots 12a . 12b is a cash-registering device 20 with a cash detector 21 arranged. The cash detector 21 is suitable for each through the cash-guide slot 12a . 12b to recognize imported coin and / or banknote and provide a corresponding output signal. For example, the cash detector 21 an induction coil for inductive detection and detection of metallic coins. Here, for example, when passing a metallic coin through the cash slot 12a . 12b induces an electrical voltage in the induction coil. By virtue of an induced voltage or voltage value which can be assigned in advance to each coin, each coin can be detected in a relatively simple manner. In particular, by means of the cash detection device 20 essentially any metallic cash tender common in a geographic area is captured.

For further processing of the information about the means of the cash-detecting device 20 Cash collected refers to the cash counting unit 1 an integrated circuit or computer processor 22 for performing computer-aided processes and at least one data store 23 for the temporary and / or permanent storage of data, such as the information about the cash detected. The data store 23 may be designed accordingly as a volatile or non-volatile memory.

An electrical power supply to the cash meter 1 and / or the cash storage container 3 can basically over the previously mentioned interfaces 24 . 25 . 26 respectively. Alternatively it can be provided for connection to the local supply network, a power supply with a known plug part. For a mobile use of the cash counting unit 1 and / or the cash storage container 3 can a battery 27 be provided. Basically, both the cash counting unit 1 as well as the cash storage container 3 one battery each 27 have, for example, in an embodiment of the cash storage container 3 with additional electrical components disposed therein, such as a computing processor 22 , Data storage 23 , Speaker 28 and / or microphone 29 , In the present case is only in the cash counting unit 1 such a battery 27 for the electrical power supply of both the cash counting unit 1 as well as the cash storage tank 3 arranged.

For a manual acoustic input - for example, information on the in the cash storage container 3 cash - indicates the cash counter 1 a microphone on. As a result, for example, an acoustic input of a certain amount of money, such as the amount of money in the cash storage container 3 cash or a corrected amount of cash by means of the cash-registering device 20 previously recorded cash. In addition, in the housing 10 the cash counter 1 a loudspeaker 28 intended. As a result, information about a recorded amount of cash, for example, can be issued acoustically, in particular after every introduction of cash into the cash-management slot 12a . 12b , This allows a direct control of each introduced and recorded cash done.

In addition, the cash counting unit includes 1 for the purpose of data transmission at least one data transmission interface 24 . 25 . 26 for electronically linking the cash counter 1 with a mobile input / output device 6 like a tablet or smartphone, a computer or server 7 , The data transmission interface 24 . 25 . 26 can be configured as a wired or wireless interface. In the present case, the cash counting unit includes 1 a USB interface 24 for the wired and direct connection of the cash counting unit 1 with for example a computer 7 , a wireless data interface 25 such as a WiFi module or a so-called Bluetooth interface, for wireless direct or via a network indirectly connecting the cash meter 1 with for example a smartphone 6 as well as a non-illustrated, also known under the term RJ45 socket network interface 26 for the wired connection of the cash counting unit 1 with, for example, an existing local or global network, in particular the Internet. Thus, a transfer of data, for example regarding information to the already in the cash storage container 3 cash and / or to one by means of the cash-collecting device 20 current amount of cash, to one or more input / output devices 6 , Computer 7 or in the Internet, for example, not shown in the figure databases. As a result, administration of the savings project or projects can be carried out in a particularly simple manner by means that are usually already available, such as a smartphone.

For example, when cash is introduced by the cash counter 1 into the cash storage container 3 a wireless data transmission concerning information to that already in the cash storage container 3 cash as well as to one by means of the cash-collecting device 20 amount of cash, to a previously defined and to the cash counter 1 wirelessly connected smartphone 6 take place, for example, in an application program or a so-called app of the smartphone 6 a further processing of the cash counting unit 1 transmitted information, for example, an output and / or storage of the current total amount in a database. Furthermore, by means of the application program to the smartphone 6 transferred data for the purpose of cash management, calculation, such as one or more savings plans, for use as virtual money and / or for the visual and / or audible output of the information about the cash to be used.

For example, this can be done by means of the cash counting unit 1 detected real cash in an application program in virtual money, for example in the form of a credit on an account, by generating a voucher and / or as so-called bitcoins exchanged. As a result, the generated virtual credit can be used, for example, for an online purchase on the Internet. Especially in such a case, the basic possibility is that for at least partially taking out cash from the cash storage container 3 the lockable cap described above 36 only by certain people, such as bank employees, or machines, such as bank ATMs, removed and thereby the opening 35 can be released. In the aforementioned example of an online purchase, the withdrawn cash can be supplied via the bank, for example, to the seller. Alternatively, a credit of the withdrawn amount of cash can be made in an account. It should thus be clear that the further processing of the information about the cash holdings in the cash storage container 3 there are no limits.

In the 2 is the cash detection system according to the invention 100 with a single cash counting unit 1 and a plurality of differently designed cash storage containers 3a . 3b . 3c shown. The cash counter 1 is essentially the cash counter 1 out 1 , where only the arrangement of the mechanical interface 18 and electrical interface 19 is different. The Indian 2 3a, cash storage containers substantially correspond to the cash storage containers 3 out 1 , where only the arrangement of the mechanical interface 38 and electrical interface 39 is different. In particular, the mechanical interface 18 . 38 as a magnetic interface with a permanent magnet 18 and a ferromagnetic plate 38 for at least temporarily fixing the cash counting unit 1 at the cash storage tank 3a educated. The electrical interface 19 . 39 is only changed in their respective positional arrangement.

The cash storage container 3b is basically like the cash storage tank 3a constructed, with the closing of the recesses 32a . 32b provided cover is formed in two parts, in particular with a displaceably mounted first cover part 33a and a slidably mounted second cover part 33b , The lid parts 33a . 33b in particular, in each case for releasing the respective recess 32a . 32b parallel to the side wall 31 in the in the 2 are shown shifted open position and are each for automatically closing the recesses 32a . 32b preferably in the direction of a recess 32a . 32b closing closed position biased by a spring element, not shown. Both lid parts 33a . 33b may again be preferred when setting up the cash counting unit 1 on the cash storage tank 3b from one at the cash counter 1 arranged, not shown projection in the direction of an open position of the recesses 32a . 32b be moved automatically together or separately. The latter can in particular in an embodiment of the cash storage container 3b with a divided by a partition, not shown interior 34 or even in an embodiment of the cash counting unit 1 with only one cash-guide slot 12a or 12b be desirable.

The cash storage container 3c is basically also like the cash storage container 3a constructed, wherein the or the cover parts 33a . 33b each as one on the storage case 30 rotatably mounted flap are formed. The respective flap can be to release the respective recess 32a . 32b in the direction of the interior 34 be pivoted and is preferred in the direction of a recess 32a . 32b closing closed position biased by a spring element, not shown. This allows the respective cover part 33a . 33b when putting up the cash counting unit 1 on the cash storage tank 3c from one at the cash counter 1 arranged, not shown projection in the direction of a recess 32a . 32b releasing open position against the spring force are automatically rotated or pivoted. With a decrease of the cash counting unit 1 from the cash storage tank 3c becomes the respective lid part 33a . 33b again automatically moved to the closed position. This allows the side wall 31 of the cash storage tank 3c be designed visually appealing.

Of course, also in the in the 2 shown cash detection system 100 a withdrawal of the cash from the cash storage container 3a . 3b . 3c - As described above - be reserved for a certain group of people or a machine and / or a data transfer to a presently not shown mobile input / output device, a computer and / or the Internet with the same, described in detail above advantages of further processing.

In the 3 schematically are the operations in a method for operating and / or managing several separate savings projects by means of the cash detection system described above 100 shown. As an application example, a family with 2 children can be considered, with both children, each with its own cash storage container 3a . 3b pursue their own savings project. To manage the two savings plans is a single cash counting unit 1 intended. The procedures are as follows:

In a first step, a mechanical and electrical coupling takes place 101 the cash counter 1 with the first cash storage container 3a For example, a moneybox of the first child. The coupling 101 takes place - as described in detail above - by placing and temporarily fixing the cash counter 1 at the first cash storage container 3a , In a next step, a readout takes place 102 a data store 24 of the first cash storage container 3 by means of the cash counter 1 in particular for identifying the first cash storage container 3 and retrieving the one in the first cash storage container 3 existing cash holdings. After the cash counting unit 1 the first cash storage container 3 has assigned clearly and has stored the data on the existing cash holdings in a cache, the cash counter 1 optionally output an audible and / or visual signal, which with the reference numeral 102 is marked so that the saver person receives the information that comes with the insertion 103 of coins and / or banknotes into the cash counter 1 can be started. That into the cash counting unit 1 introduced cash, in particular the respectively imported coins and / or banknotes is - as described above - by means of a cash-detecting device 20 detected, which with the reference numeral 104 and then into the cash storage container 3a forwarded. In this case, a detectable electrical voltage is induced in particular in an induction coil.

After capturing 104 into the cash counter 1 introduced cash coin and / or banknote is issued 105a a pre-defined the respective value of the detected coin or banknote acoustic signal via a loudspeaker 28 , If the signal emitted acoustically does not correspond to the value of the coin or banknote actually inserted, acoustic input may be required 105b a pre-defined the respective value of the detected coin or banknote acoustic signal via a microphone 29 a correction is made. Optionally, after capturing 104 alternatively or additionally a data transmission 104a to an input / output device 6 done and at least the acoustic output 105a and / or the acoustic input 105b a pre-defined the respective value of the detected coin or banknote acoustic signal by means of the input / output device 6 respectively.

Preferably with each detection and / or with each correction of the value of a coin and / or banknote is a buffering 106 that data which contains information about the respectively introduced coins and / or banknotes, in a data memory 23 the cash counter 1 , At the same time or in a subsequent step, a calculation takes place 107 in the first cash storage container 3a total cash amount by adding the detected and cached amount to the read or last stored cash amount. Optionally, the calculation can 107 also by means of the input / output device 6 respectively.

This is followed by a save 108 at least of the data containing information about the total amount of cash calculated and / or the amount collected and cached, in a non-volatile data store 23 the cash counter 1 and / or the first cash storage container 3a , Before or after uncoupling 109 the cash counter 1 from the first cash storage container 3a can optionally output 110 in the first cash storage container 3a cash total on an electronic display of the cash counter 1 and / or the first cash storage container 3a respectively. In addition, establishing a network connection to a mobile input / output device 6 and / or a computer 7 , for example via a network or the Internet. This can then be a transfer 111 of data containing information about the total cash amount of the first cash storage container 3 introduced cash amount and / or only about the last in the first cash storage container 3a cash amount imported from the cash counter 1 via a data interface 24 . 25 . 26 to the mobile input / output device 6 , in particular to a tablet or smartphone, a computer and / or server 7 respectively. This can be a logical link 112 the data is made with a user account, such as a bank account, and the information about the total cash amount and / or the detected amount of a respective cash storage container, in this case the first cash storage container 3a , assigned to this user account, displayed and further processed.

Then to introduce cash in another cash storage container, in particular in the second cash storage container 3b , like a money box of the second child, takes place after uncoupling 109 a docking 101b the cash counter 1 with the second cash storage tank 3b , After coupling 101b the cash counter 1 with the second cash storage tank 3b the above-mentioned method steps 102, 103, 104, 105a, 106, 107, 108, 109 and optionally the method steps are carried out again 102 . 105b . 110 . 111 and or 112 ,

It should be understood that the scope of the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, but includes any combination of the individual features. In particular, the construction of the cash counting unit and the cash storage container, as well as the respectively arranged thereon components can - without the core of the invention to change - be quite modified.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

Cash counting

3

Cash-storage tank

3a

Cash-storage tank

3b

Cash-storage tank

3c

Cash-storage tank

6

Input / output device, smartphone, tablet

7

Computer, server

10

casing

11

inner space

12a

Cash guide slot

12b

Cash guide slot

18

mechanical interface

19

electrical interface

20

Cash detector

21

Cash Detector

22

computing processor

23

data storage

24

USB interface

25

Network interface, WiFi module

26

Network interface, RJ45 socket

27

battery

28

speaker

29

microphone

30

storage Enclosures

31

Side wall

32a

recess

32b

recess

33

cover

33a

cover

33b

cover

34

inner space

35

opening

36

cap

38

mechanical interface

39

electrical interface

100

Cash-acquisition system

101

Couple

101b

Couple

102

select

102

Output

103

Introduce

104

To capture

104a

Data transmitted

105a

Output

105b

Enter

106

cache

107

To calculate

108

to save

109

uncouple

110

Output

111

Transfer

112

Link

Claims (10)

A multifunctional cash detection system (100) comprising a mobile cash counter (1) having a housing (10) with cash detection means (20) disposed therein for detecting cash carried by the housing (10), and at least one separately formed cash storage containers (3, 3a, 3b, 3c), in which cash can be stored, characterized in that the cash counting unit (1) with the cash storage container (3, 3a, 3b, 3c) is non-destructively coupled non-destructively , Cash collection system after Claim 1 , characterized in that the cash counting unit (1) and the cash storage container (3, 3a, 3b, 3c) each have at least one mechanical interface (18, 38) for fixing the cash counting unit (1) to the cash storage container (3, 3a, 3b, 3c). Cash collection system according to one of Claims 1 or 2 , characterized in that the cash counter (1) and the cash storage container (3, 3a, 3b, 3c) each have at least one electrical interface (19, 39) for electrically coupling the cash counter (1) to the cash counter. Storage container (3, 3a, 3b, 3c) comprises. Cash collection system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cash detection device (20) comprises at least one cash-guiding slot (12a, 12b) extending through the housing (10) for inserting coins and / or banknotes, and on a cash detector (21) for detecting coins and / or banknotes guided by the cash-guiding slot (12a, 12b) is arranged in the cash-guiding slot (12a, 12b). Cash collection system after Claim 4 , characterized in that the cash detector (21) for detecting coins comprises an induction coil, a light barrier and / or a camera. Cash collection system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cash counting unit (1) and / or the cash storage container (3, 3a, 3b, 3c) an integrated circuit, a computing processor (22), a data memory (23 ), a USB interface (24) and / or a network interface (25, 26). Cash collection system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cash counting unit (1) and / or the cash storage container (3, 3a, 3b, 3c) has a battery (27) for self-sufficient power supply, a loudspeaker (28). and / or a microphone (29). Cash collection system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cash storage container (3, 3a, 3b, 3c) has a storage housing (30) with at least one side wall (31) on which the cash counting unit (1) the cash storage container (3, 3a, 3b, 3c) is coupled, and on which at least one recess (32a, 32b) is designed for carrying cash. Cash collection system after Claim 8 , characterized in that the recess (32a, 32b) by means of a on the storage housing (30) movable, in particular displaceable or rotatable, mounted lid (33, 33a, 33b) is closable. Cash collection system after Claim 9 characterized in that the lid (33, 33a, 33b) is disposed and supported on the storage case (30) such that the lid (33, 33a, 33b) is placed on the cash storage container when the cash counting unit (1) is put on (3, 3a, 3b, 3c) for releasing the recess (32a, 32b) and removing the cash counting unit (1) from the cash storage container (3, 3a, 3b, 3c) for closing the recess (32a, 32b ) is relocated automatically.

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