EP1685541B1

EP1685541B1 - Self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus designed for a cash register system

Info

Publication number: EP1685541B1
Application number: EP04775522A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Leif Nordqvist
Original assignee: CashGuard AB
Current assignee: CashGuard AB
Priority date: 2003-10-09
Filing date: 2004-10-08
Publication date: 2007-08-22
Anticipated expiration: 2024-10-08
Also published as: SE0302678L; DE602004008504T2; ES2291943T3; EP1685541A1; DE602004008504D1; SE0302678D0; SE527111C2; NO20062058L; ATE371238T1; WO2005034051A1; NO336688B1

Abstract

Self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus designed for a cash register system (1), which apparatus (2) comprises a storage device (15) for storage of notes (3), an inputting and issuing unit (19) for inputting notes (3) to and issuing notes (3) from the said storage device (15) on the basis of a requested amount, paid-in amount and calculated change. The said storage device (15) comprises an alarm circuit (60) comprising an electronics unit (62) and a destructive agent (63) that destroys the notes (3) stored in the said storage device (15) when necessary.

Description

BACKGROUND ART

The present invention relates to a self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus in accordance with the preamble to Claim 1, and a cash register system for storing notes in a shop in accordance with the preamble to Claim 6.
The use of self-contained automatic note-handling apparatuses in shops/banks/post offices, etc, for inputting and issuing notes is already known.
As the storage device in a self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus designed for a cash register system is progressively filled with notes, the storage device is emptied of notes and these are transferred to transportation boxes. These internal transportation boxes are then moved internally to a safe, also called a buffer store in this application, located in the shop/bank/post office. At regular intervals, the notes are then transported in larger volumes from the said buffer store to a financial institution using yet another type of transportation box or portable secure container designed for large volumes of notes, which transportation boxes comprise an alarm consisting of an alarm pad and an electronic circuit comprising a destructive agent. When the alarm in a transportation box is activated, an attempted forced entry will result in the alarm activating the destructive agent so that this destroys the contents of the transportation box.
The internal transportation in the shop/bank/post office is time-consuming and the storage of transportation boxes in the safe or next to a checkout requires a lot of space and expensive handling.
Known self-contained automatic note-handling apparatuses designed for cash register systems can sometimes require the storage device to be emptied of notes relatively frequently and also at the end of the working day. The notes are transferred from the self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus to internal transportation boxes, which are transported to a safe in the shop/bank/post office for storage.
This means that the handling concerning the removal of notes from the shop, transportation to and from the safe and recording the number of notes in the safe results in an insecure and complicated procedure.
The present invention also relates to a further development of a self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus designed for a cash register system, that is described, for example, in the European patent document EP 615 643 , where detectors are arranged to detect notes that are input and issued and where a cash register system generates a control signal to control the issuing of notes. The present invention is also a further development of a system for storing notes in a shop/bank/post office comprising stationary self-contained automatic note-handling apparatuses designed for cash register systems.
An object of the present invention is to improve known self-contained automatic note-handling apparatuses designed for cash register systems and to make known cash register systems require less space.
An object of the present invention is also to achieve a self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus that enables a shopkeeper to achieve a more cost-effective handling of notes in the shop.
Yet another object of the present invention is to achieve a system for storage of notes in a shop/bank/post office, where the handling of notes is simplified and made more efficient.
These objects are achieved by the self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus designed for a cash register system described in the introduction and in the characterizing part of Claim 1. By this means, notes paid into the shop/bank/post office can be stored securely in the self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus. This also means that the storage of notes in the shop takes up less space, as the notes can be stored in the self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus instead of in separate safes in the shop.
The destructive agent is preferably located essentially above and adjacent to the storage device and is arranged to be released in the event of an alarm when the alarm circuit is activated.
In this way, existing self-contained automatic note-handling apparatuses can be provided with an alarm circuit comprising a destructive agent without the apparatus needing to be raised up in existing installations. A cashier can thereby feed in and receive notes at the same height as with existing apparatuses.
The inputting and issuing unit suitably comprises detector means connected to an item-recording device for recording the presence of notes in the storage device.
By means of this recording, activation of the alarm circuit can be carried out automatically.
Alternatively, the storage device constitutes a separate space located adjacent to the inputting and issuing unit.
In this way, notes in bundles can be made thief-proof for secure storage at the checkout.
The storage device is preferably divided into storage units, each designed for storing, inputting and issuing notes according to denomination.
By this means, a self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus, where notes are stored according to denomination, can be made thief-proof. This also makes it possible to arrange a destructive agent only for the highest denominations, that are considered to be the most likely to be stolen, whereby further space can be saved in a shop.
These objects are achieved by the cash register system for storing notes in a shop, which system is described in the introduction and in the characterizing part of Claim 6.
By this means, space in the shop can be utilized more efficiently, and the storage of notes can take up less space. In addition, the handling by the shop staff of notes for storage is less complicated, as the use of internal transportation boxes is reduced and the handling of recording and depositing of notes in the shop's safe can be either eliminated completely or simplified.
The storage device suitably comprises an integrated part of the space in the shop for the storage of notes that are to be transported to a financial institution.
In this way, the shop's buffer store can be reduced in size.
Alternatively, a central unit, connected to an item-recording device and to the self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus for controlling the issuing of notes, comprises an activation unit for activating and deactivating the alarm circuit.
By this means, activation and deactivation can be carried out automatically in response to the number of notes recorded and stored in the storage device. For example, the alarm circuit can be activated when the number of notes in the storage device exceeds a predetermined lower limit value.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The invention will now be described in greater detail with reference to the drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows schematically a known cash register system comprising a self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus;
Figure 2 shows schematically a cash register system according to the invention;
Figure 3 shows schematically the cash register system in Figure 1;
Figure 4 shows schematically the cash register system in Figure 2;
Figure 5 shows schematically a self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus according to the invention according to a first embodiment; and
Figure 6 shows schematically the self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus according to the invention according to a second embodiment.

MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

The invention will now be described in the form of embodiments. For the sake of clarity, components that are not of significance for the invention have been omitted in the drawings.
In the Swedish patent application no. 0200986-8 , a known cash register system 102 is described, comprising a self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus 101. Figure 1 shows schematically a cash register system 102 for storing money, such as notes 3 and coins 5, which are issued to and received from customers 9 at a checkout 11 in a shop 13. The cash register system 102 comprises a storage device 15, comprised in the self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus 101 for storing the notes 3 according to denomination.
The self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus 101 receives and issues the notes 3 according to denomination. Previously input notes 3 will thus be issued later in connection with the paying out of change and the withdrawal of notes. Inputting and issuing units 19, which in turn comprise detectors 21 of the type shown in EP 615 643 , are comprised in the self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus 101. The inputting and issuing of notes 3 is shown by arrows p.
Each inputting and issuing unit 19 is controlled in turn by signals from a computer 23 comprising an item-recording device 25. The item-recording device 25 records input and issued notes 3 at item level for comparison with a requested amount obtained from a cash register 27.
The inputting and issuing unit 19 comprises a control device 31 connected via cables to the storage device 15 and to the item-recording device 25 arranged in the shop 13 for controlling the issuing of notes 3 at item level.
A central database unit 33 is arranged in the shop 13 for storing data relating to the total number of notes 3 that are physically stored in the shop 13 in real time. The item-recording device 25 is thus designed to work in conjunction with the central database unit 33 for recording in real time the number of input and issued notes 3 and the total number of notes 3 stored in the shop 13 at item level according to denomination.
The number of notes 3 that are stored in the storage device of the self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus 101 is recorded physically by the detector means 21 and the number of notes 3 is documented electronically at item level and this information being transmitted to the central database unit 33 located at central level in the shop 13 via the item-recording device 25.
The task of the item-recording unit 25 is to record the number of input and issued notes 3 and coins 5 according to denomination and to calculate the total number of notes 3 currently stored in the storage device 15 according to denomination, in conjunction with the central database unit 33. The information concerning the current number of notes 3 according to denomination is stored in the central database unit 33 using the item-recording unit 25. In this way, the shop's 13 physical stock of notes 3 is monitored at central level in the shop 13.
The central database unit 33 is arranged to work in conjunction with a computer unit 37 in a remote financial institution 39 via a data link 35.
As the storage device 15 is progressively filled, the notes 3 are transported by means of internal transportation boxes 50, to a buffer store 51, such as a safe, in the shop 13. A control unit 32 is arranged to monitor the number of notes in the buffer store 51. The storage of the notes 3 is carried out in storage cassettes 52 designed for the notes 3 or in the internal transportation boxes 50 that are arranged to be able to be placed on secure shelves 54 in such way that they can be locked. A recording unit 53 is arranged in the buffer store 51 for transmitting data to the control unit 32 relating to the number of stored items 3 at item level. Notes 3 are transported from the buffer store 51 to the financial institution 39 according to the arrow r.
The system described above works satisfactorily but is subject to further development according to the following description with reference to Figures 2, 4, 5 and 6. Components shown in one figure correspond to components with the same reference numeral in other figures.
Figure 2 shows schematically a cash register system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus 2 designed for the cash register system 1 in a shop 13 has been given an alarm circuit 60 consisting of an alarm pad 61 and an electronic unit 62 with destructive agent 63. When a shopkeeper (not shown) so desires, he can activate the alarm circuit 60 by operating an activation unit 64. The activation is suitably carried out before night time when the shop 13 is closed.
A central unit 65, connected to the self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus 2, for controlling the issuing of notes 3, comprises an activation unit 64 for activating or deactivating the alarm circuit 60. By this means, activation of the alarm circuit 60 can be carried out automatically on the basis of the status of the cash register system 1.
The notes 3 in the stationary self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus 2 can thus be stored securely at the checkout number 11 without needing to be transported to a buffer store in the way that is shown in Figure 1, see reference numeral 51. The storage device 15 constitutes the shop's 13 buffer store for notes 3 that are to be transported to a financial institution 39.
The space required in the shop 13 for the storage of notes 3 overnight is thus smaller in comparison to known technology, as the storage device 15 can be utilized as a protected storage space. The self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus 2 does not need to be emptied as frequently. For example, when a checkout 11 is not being used, the shop personnel only need to activate the alarm circuit 60 instead of needing to transport the notes 3 to a buffer store. The notes 3 can be stored securely at the checkout 11 in the storage device 15 and do not need to be transported internally to a safe or deposit for storage. This means that space is released in the shop premises for other purposes than the storage of notes 3. The notes 3 are transported from the storage device 15 to the financial institution 39 in accordance with the arrow s on suitable occasions. According to the present embodiment, the control unit 32 shown in Figure 1 is superfluous and this results in a less complicated cash register system.
Figure 3 shows schematically the cash register system in Figure 1. Prior to a transportation taking place of protected secure containers, such as transportation boxes 66, to a financial institution 39 from the shop 13, the notes 3 that are to be transported are stored in the shop's 13 buffer store 51. The transportation boxes 66 are provided with a plate element with an integrated alarm pad, constructed of filaments or the like that conduct light and/or electricity. An electronic circuit (not shown) controls the alarm pad and is activated automatically when the transportation box 66 is filled with notes. Upon arrival at the financial institution 39, the transportation box 66 is deactivated and emptied of its content. The internal transportation boxes 50 filled with notes 3 are moved from the checkout 11 to the buffer store 51 by a cashier when she is closing her workplace. The internal transportation boxes 50 are stored in the shop's buffer store 51 and are transferred later on to the financial institution 39. In a shop 13 with a plurality of self-contained automatic note-handling apparatuses 101, there is a need for a buffer store 51 that takes up a lot of space, as a large number of notes 3 are handed over to the shop 13 by customers 9.
Figure 4 shows schematically the cash register system in Figure 2. Notes 3 stored in the storage device 15 of the self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus 2 are transferred directly to a security guard's 68 transportation box 66 and are transported directly to the financial institution 39. The space 67, previously used as buffer storage, is thereby available for other purposes in the shop 13.
Figure 5 shows schematically a self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus 2 according to a first embodiment. The self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus 2 is in a stationary location at a checkout 11, where the customer 9 hands over notes 3 for payment to a cashier 69. The apparatus 2 comprises an inputting and issuing unit 19 with an opening for inputting and issuing notes of all denominations and a mechanism (not shown) for handling the notes 3. Inputting and issuing of the notes 3 is controlled and carried out by a computer 23 that is connected to a central database unit 33. According to this embodiment, the storage device 15 consists principally of a separate space 70 located adjacent to the said inputting and issuing unit 19. The separate space 70 is arranged for storage of bundles of notes 3 and is arranged with a protective casing 71 comprising an alarm circuit 60. The separate space 70 constitutes an integrated part of the shop's buffer store for notes 3 that are to be transported to a financial institution 39.
Figure 6 shows schematically a self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus 2 designed for a cash register system 1, which comprises a storage device 15 divided into storage units 49, each designed for storing, inputting and issuing of notes according to denomination, in the form of a spool arrangement 80 for storing notes 3, and an inputting and issuing unit 19 for inputting notes 3 to and issuing notes 3 from the storage device 15 on the basis of a requested amount, paid-in amount and calculated change. That is to say, paying out of notes to the customer 9 is carried out automatically on the basis of the calculated change. The storage device 15 comprises an alarm circuit 60 comprising an alarm pad 61 comprising an electronics unit 62 and a destructive agent 63, such as dye cartridges (not shown) that can be released, that destroys the notes 3 stored in the storage device 15 when necessary.
The alarm pad is of the type designed for secure containers and is arranged principally above and adjacent to the self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus 2. The electronics unit 62 and the destructive agent 63 are arranged inside the storage device 15. The control device 31 is arranged to control the issuing of notes 3 from the storage device 15, in the form of change or for the withdrawal of cash, in conjunction with the self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus 2. The central database unit 33 is connected to other checkouts 11 comprising self-contained automatic note-handling apparatuses 2 and is arranged with a central control unit, such as an activation unit 64, whereby control of the alarm circuit 60 can be carried out by activation or deactivation of the alarm circuit 60 at the different checkouts 11. The lower illustration in Figure 6 shows the self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus 2 in a view from the front. A shutter 85, that can be closed, is arranged at each opening for the inputting and issuing of notes 3 in the storage device 15. The control device 31 controls closing of each opening when inputting and issuing are not being carried out, in order to prevent the theft of notes from the storage device 15.
Of course, other types of self-contained note-handling apparatuses designed for cash register systems can also be used. Combinations of the embodiments and components described above can be found within the framework of the present invention. Activation and deactivation of the alarm circuit can either be carried out manually or can be controlled automatically by an activation unit supplied, for example, with information about the number of notes stored in the storage device, which information is supplied from the item-recording device. Other types of protective casing can similarly be used within the framework of the present invention. Alternatively, the alarm circuit can be activated at predetermined times or permanently.

Claims

Self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus designed for a cash register system (1), which apparatus (2) comprises a storage device (15) for storage of notes (3), an inputting and issuing unit (19) controlled by a computer (23) for inputting notes (3) to and issuing notes (3) from the said storage device (15) on the basis of a requested amount, paid-in amount and calculated change, characterized in that the said storage device (15) comprises an alarm circuit (60) comprising an electronics unit (62) and a destructive agent (63) that destroys the notes (3) stored in the said storage device (15) when necessary.
Apparatus according to Claim 1, characterized in that the destructive agent (63) is located essentially above and adjacent to the said storage device (15) and is arranged to be released in the event of an alarm, when the said alarm circuit (60) is activated.
Apparatus according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the inputting and issuing unit (19) comprises detector means (21) connected to an item-recording device (25) for recording the presence of notes (3) in the storage device (15).
Apparatus according to Claim 1-3, characterized in that the said storage device (15) consists of a separate space (70) located adjacent to the said inputting and issuing unit (19).
Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the said storage device (15) is divided into storage units (49), each designed for storing, inputting and issuing of notes (3) according to denomination.
Cash register system for storing notes (3) in a shop (13), which system (1) comprises self contained automatic note-handling apparatuses (2) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the said storage device (15) constitutes the shop's buffer store (13) for storage of notes (3) that are to be transported to a financial institution (39).
Cash register system according to Claim 6, characterized in that the said storage device (15) constitutes an integrated part of the shop's (13) space for storage of notes (3) that are to be transported to a financial institution (39).
Cash register system according to Claim 6 or 7, characterized in that a central unit (65), connected to the said self-contained automatic note-handling apparatus (2) for controlling the issuing of notes (3), comprises an activation unit (64) for activating and deactivating the said alarm circuit (60).