JP2009256073A - Double feed detecting device and double feed detection method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve accuracy of double feed detection when a conveying auxiliary member and the like housing a sheet-like member are conveyed more than ever. <P>SOLUTION: This double feed detecting device includes a conveying path for conveying a sheet-like member having a preliminarily designated area, on which printing is done using a specific printing material, a signal outputting means arranged on one side of the conveying path and outputting signals in a direction of the sheet-like member, a reception means arranged on the other side of the conveying path, receiving the signals outputted from the signal outputting means and outputting the reception signals, a printing detection means for outputting printing detection signals according to existence of the printing material adhered on the sheet-like member, and a double feed determination means for determining whether the sheet-like members are double-fed or not based on the reception signals and the printing detection signals. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a double feed detection technique for detecting double feed in which a plurality of sheet-like members are carried while being stacked in a step of carrying a plurality of sheet-like members one by one.

  Scanners, printers, copiers, printing machines, ATMs (Automated Teller Machines), and the like are provided with a mechanism for separating and conveying sheet-like members one by one. However, there is a possibility that “multiple feeding” may occur in which only one sheet-like member is conveyed while part or all of two or more sheet-like members are overlapped. For this reason, the apparatus which conveys a sheet-like member needs the function to detect double feeding of a sheet-like member. As a mechanism for detecting double feed of a sheet-like member, a double feed detection device using ultrasonic waves has been proposed (Patent Document 1).

  FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an outline of a banknote double feed detection device described in Patent Document 1. The banknote 101 is a sheet-like member as a detection target. The ultrasonic transmission means 102 transmits ultrasonic waves to the banknote 101. The ultrasonic wave receiving unit 103 receives the ultrasonic wave transmitted from the ultrasonic wave transmitting unit 102. The ultrasonic wave receiving means 103 is installed so as to face the ultrasonic wave sending means 102 across the conveyance path of the banknote 101 so that the ultrasonic wave transmitted through the banknote 101 can be received.

  The control unit 104 supplies a pulse signal to the driving unit 105 as an ultrasonic transmission signal. The driving means 105 amplifies the pulse signal supplied from the control means 104 and outputs it as an ultrasonic transmission pulse. Thereby, the ultrasonic wave transmission means 102 transmits an ultrasonic wave based on the ultrasonic wave transmission pulse by which the signal was amplified. Note that the pulse signal supplied by the control means 104 is, for example, a pulse signal for several cycles. This is generally called a burst wave. The burst wave is transmitted at a frequency of once every several ms (milliseconds), for example.

  The signal amplification unit 106 amplifies the ultrasonic reception signal output from the ultrasonic reception unit 103. The signal amplification factor adjusting unit 110 adjusts the signal amplification factor of the signal amplification unit 106. Here, the signal amplification factor adjusting means 110 is, for example, a volume. Further, the adjustment of the signal amplification factor is performed, for example, for individual products before product shipment or by a product user.

  The A-D converter 107 converts the ultrasonic reception signal (analog signal) amplified by the signal amplification unit 106 into a digital signal and outputs the digital signal to the signal analysis unit 108. The signal analysis unit 108 analyzes the ultrasonic reception signal digitized by the A / D converter 107 and outputs the analysis result to the control unit 104. The storage unit 109 holds each setting value of the double feed detection device. As a result, the double feed detection device performs the double feed detection operation using the set value held in the storage unit 109.

  Next, the operation of the double feed detection device shown in FIG. 24 will be described. The ultrasonic wave transmitted from the ultrasonic wave transmitting means 102 hits the bill 101 and the ultrasonic wave receiving means 103 receives the transmitted wave. Thereby, the ultrasonic wave receiving means 103 outputs an ultrasonic wave reception signal that changes in accordance with the received signal intensity of the received ultrasonic wave. The signal amplifying unit 106 amplifies the ultrasonic reception signal output from the ultrasonic receiving unit 103 with an amplification factor according to the adjustment state of the signal amplification factor adjustment unit 110. The A-D converter 107 converts the ultrasonic reception signal amplified by the signal amplification unit 106 into a digital signal, and outputs the digitized ultrasonic reception signal to the signal analysis unit 108. The signal analysis means 108 analyzes the digitized ultrasonic reception signal output from the A / D converter 107. When the control unit 104 determines that double feeding is performed based on the analysis result of the signal analysis unit 108, the control unit 104 performs processing to notify the device or the user of the device that the double feeding has occurred.

The double feed detection method shown in FIG. 24 is a method called a level determination method in which double analysis is detected by the signal analysis means 108 analyzing the change in the amplitude of the received ultrasonic reception signal. This level determination method will be further described. The ultrasonic receiving means 103 acquires the amplitude of the ultrasonic wave which conveyed the banknote 101 and permeate | transmitted the banknote 101, after setting the double feed determination threshold value beforehand. Compared with the amplitude of transmitted ultrasonic waves when the banknotes 101 are normally conveyed one by one, the amplitude of transmitted ultrasonic waves when the banknotes 101 are double-fed is a small value. This is because the amount of attenuation of ultrasonic waves increases according to the number of stacked banknotes. Therefore, by comparing the amplitude of the ultrasonic reception signal acquired by the ultrasonic receiving unit 103 and amplified by the signal amplifying unit 106 with the double feed determination threshold value in the signal analyzing unit 108, the double feed of the bill 101 is performed based on the comparison result. It becomes possible to detect.
Japanese Patent No. 3860126

  Next, an example in which a check (generally referred to as a check or bill) is conveyed as a sheet-like member will be described. Normally, the check is transported as it is, but the damaged check is stored in the transport auxiliary member and transported. For example, a translucent envelope called an envelope is used as the conveyance assisting member. The number of envelopes in which checks are stored is the same as the number of checks, for example. This is because the envelope is formed by a transparent sheet on the front surface and a sheet on the back surface, and a check is inserted between them. The envelope storing the check causes the same attenuation of ultrasonic waves because it is the same number as when three sheets are double-fed. For this reason, the amplitude (reception intensity) of the ultrasonic reception signal when the envelope is conveyed is smaller than the amplitude of the ultrasonic reception signal when only the check is conveyed. Therefore, when the envelope storing the check is conveyed, the control means 104 will determine that a double feed has occurred.

  The user needs to disable the double feed detection function when it is desired to avoid reading operation stoppage due to determination of double feed, such as when checking is carried in an envelope. However, the work to disable it will be a burden on the user. Also, if the double feed detection function is disabled and forgotten to be enabled again, it will not be possible to detect the double feed that occurs thereafter. If the occurrence of double feeding cannot be detected, the image on the sheet cannot be read correctly, and image data may be lost.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to solve at least one of such problems and other problems. For example, an object of the present invention is to improve the accuracy of double-feed detection when a conveyance auxiliary member or the like storing a sheet-like member is conveyed, and to prevent the user from taking time and effort. is there. Other issues can be understood throughout the specification.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, the sheet-like member having the area designated for magnetic printing is conveyed, and the sheet-like member is disposed on one side of the conveyance path and extends in the direction of the sheet-like member. An ultrasonic transmission means for transmitting a sound wave; an ultrasonic reception means disposed on the other side of the conveying path for receiving an ultrasonic wave transmitted by the ultrasonic transmission means and outputting an ultrasonic reception signal; and a sheet-like member Magnetic printing detection means for outputting a magnetic printing detection signal according to the presence or absence of magnetic printing, and double feed determination means for determining whether or not the sheet-like member is double fed based on the ultrasonic reception signal and the magnetic printing detection signal; Is provided.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, the magnetic printing detecting means can detect magnetic printing of the sheet-like member when the sheet-like member is stored and conveyed in the conveyance auxiliary member, and the sheet-like member is the conveyance auxiliary member. A multi-feed detection device is provided that is arranged at a position where magnetic printing of a sheet-like member cannot be detected when the sheet-like member is conveyed without being stored.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, the conveyance path includes a regulating means for regulating a position through which one side of the sheet-like member or one side of the conveyance auxiliary member storing the sheet-like member passes. Is provided.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, when the ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is no suspicion of multifeed, the multifeed determination means determines that the sheet-like member is not multifeeding and receives the ultrasonic wave. Even if the signal indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding, if the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing has been detected, it is determined that the sheet-like member is not double feeding, and the ultrasonic reception signal is Double feed detection, characterized in that it is determined that the sheet-like member is double feeding when there is a suspicion of double feeding and the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing is not detected An apparatus is provided.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the apparatus further includes an amplifying unit for amplifying the ultrasonic reception signal, and the double feed determination unit includes the ultrasonic reception signal amplified by the amplifying unit and the ultrasonic wave not amplified by the amplifying unit. There is provided a double feed detection device characterized by determining whether or not a sheet-like member is double fed based on a sound wave reception signal and a magnetic printing detection signal.

  According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the multifeed judging means judges that the sheet-like member is not double fed if the unamplified ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is no suspicion of multifeed. If the unamplified ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding, and the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing is not detected, the sheet-like member is double feeding. Even if the ultrasonic reception signal that has not been amplified indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding, and the magnetic print detection signal indicates that magnetic printing has been detected, the amplified ultrasonic reception signal is If there is a suspicion, the sheet-like member is judged to be double-feeding, the unamplified ultrasonic reception signal indicates suspicion of double-feeding, and the magnetic printing detection signal is An ultrasonic reception signal that indicates detection and is amplified If it shows a no double feed suspected double feed detection device and judging a sheet-like member is not double feed is provided.

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the light emitting means disposed on one side of the transport path and irradiating light in the direction of the sheet-like member, and the light emitting means disposed on the other side of the transport path from the light emitting means. Light receiving means for receiving the light and outputting a light receiving signal, and the multi-feed determining means is configured such that the sheet-like member multi-feeds based on the light receiving signal, the ultrasonic reception signal, and the magnetic print detection signal. There is provided a multifeed detecting device characterized by determining whether or not there is.

  According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, when the ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is no suspicion of double feeding, the multifeed judging means judges that the sheet-like member is not multifeeding and receives the ultrasonic wave. When the signal indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding and the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing is not detected, it is determined that the sheet-like member is double feeding, and the ultrasonic reception signal is Even if it indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding and the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing has been detected, if the received light signal indicates suspicion of double feeding, the sheet-like member The ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding, the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing has been detected, and the received light signal indicates that there is no suspicion of double feeding. Is characterized by determining that the sheet-like member has not been double-fed. Apparatus is provided.

  According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the light emitting means is arranged so as to irradiate light at a position avoiding the area where the magnetic printing material is adhered in the area designated for magnetic printing of the sheet-like member. A double feed detection device is provided.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a double feed detection device characterized in that an area designated for magnetic printing is an area where MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition) printing is performed.

  According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the direction of the sheet-like member by the ultrasonic wave transmitting means disposed on one side of the conveyance path on which the sheet-like member having the area designated for magnetic printing is conveyed. A step of transmitting an ultrasonic wave, a step of receiving an ultrasonic wave transmitted from the ultrasonic wave transmitting means by an ultrasonic wave receiving means disposed on the other side of the conveyance path, and acquiring an ultrasonic reception signal; and a sheet; A step of acquiring a magnetic printing detection signal output by the magnetic printing detection means according to the presence or absence of magnetic printing of the sheet-like member, an ultrasonic reception signal, and whether or not the sheet-like member is double fed based on the magnetic printing detection signal. Determining a double feed detection method.

  According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, the sheet-like member having a designated area designated in advance, on which printing using a specific printing material is performed, is arranged on one side of the conveyance path. A sending means for sending at least one of an ultrasonic wave and light in the direction of the sheet-like member and an ultrasonic wave or a light arranged on the other side of the conveying path and sent by the sending means to output a signal The signal output means, the print detection means for outputting a print detection signal based on the presence or absence of the printing material adhering to the sheet-like member, the output signal of the signal output means, and whether the sheet-like member is fed based on the print detection signal A double feed detection device including double feed determination means for determining whether or not is provided is provided.

  According to the first, eleventh and twelfth aspects of the present invention, it is possible to improve the accuracy of double feed detection when a conveyance auxiliary member or the like storing a sheet-like member is conveyed compared to the prior art, and troublesome for the user. It can be made not to take. That is, it is possible to reduce the time and effort for the user to switch between valid / invalid of the double feed detection function.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, the position of magnetic printing is changed with respect to the position of the magnetic printing detection means when the sheet-like member is conveyed alone and when the sheet-like member is stored in the conveyance auxiliary member. This makes it possible to accurately detect the presence or absence of double feeding.

  According to the 3rd viewpoint of this invention, since the position which a sheet-like member and a conveyance auxiliary member pass is aligned by the control means, the presence or absence of double feeding can be detected with high accuracy.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, even if the ultrasonic reception signal indicates that a plurality of sheet-like members are being conveyed, if magnetic printing is detected, double feeding has occurred. Therefore, even if the sheet-like member is stored in the conveyance auxiliary member, erroneous determination is reduced.

  According to the fifth and sixth aspects of the present invention, it is possible to accurately detect double feeding by the sheet-like portion and the conveyance auxiliary member storing the sheet-like member. In particular, it is possible to reduce costs because it is not necessary to add an ultrasonic wave transmitting means or an ultrasonic wave receiving means only by adding an amplifying means.

  According to the seventh and eighth aspects of the present invention, by adding the light emitting means and the light receiving means, it is possible to accurately detect double feeding by the sheet-like portion and the conveyance auxiliary member storing the sheet-like member. Can do.

  According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to reduce the influence of light attenuation accompanying magnetic printing.

  According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to improve double feed detection accuracy by using physical characteristics of MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition) printing.

  An embodiment of the present invention is shown below. The individual embodiments described below will help to understand various concepts, such as the superordinate concept, intermediate concept and subordinate concept of the present invention. Further, the technical scope of the present invention is determined by the scope of the claims, and is not limited by the following individual embodiments.

  In the following, an ultrasonic wave is disposed in the direction of the sheet-like member arranged on one side of the conveyance path on which the sheet-like member having a designated area designated in advance that is printed using a specific printing material is conveyed. An apparatus having ultrasonic transmission means for transmitting and ultrasonic reception means arranged on the other side of the conveyance path to receive ultrasonic waves transmitted from the ultrasonic transmission means and output ultrasonic reception signals will be described. The present invention is not limited to ultrasonic waves, and infrared light, visible light, or the like may be employed. In the following, a magnetic print detection unit will be described as an example of a print detection unit that outputs a print detection signal based on the presence or absence of a printing material attached to a sheet-like member. However, means for detecting physical characteristics other than thickness (for example, a special reflective paint, a reflective member, a hologram, etc.) provided in the sheet-like member may be employed.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a double feed detection device according to the first embodiment. The double feed detection device 11 is a device that detects “double feed”, which is a phenomenon in which two or more sheet-like members are conveyed by being overlapped using an ultrasonic sensor and a magnetic sensor. Check 1 is an example of a sheet-like member that is a conveyance target. Check 1 has a clear band 1-b which is an area designated for forming the magnetic print image 1-a. 1-c is a non-clear band to which no magnetic printing is applied. In addition, in this embodiment, although the check is employ | adopted as an example of a sheet-like member, the sheet-like member of this invention is not this limitation, A banknote etc. may be sufficient. Thus, the sheet-like member having the designated area (clear band 1-b) designated for magnetic printing is conveyed on the conveyance path of the double feed detection device.

  The ultrasonic transmitter 2 transmits ultrasonic waves to the check 1. The ultrasonic receiver 3 receives ultrasonic waves transmitted from the ultrasonic transmitter 2. In addition, as shown in FIG. 1, the ultrasonic receiver 3 is installed so as to face the ultrasonic transmitter 2 across the conveyance path of the check 1 so that the ultrasonic wave transmitted through the check 1 can be received. . Thereby, the ultrasonic wave transmitted from the ultrasonic transmitter 2 transmits the check 1 and the ultrasonic receiver 3 receives the transmitted wave. The ultrasonic receiver 3 outputs an ultrasonic reception signal whose signal intensity changes according to the reception intensity of the received ultrasonic wave.

  As described above, when the check 1 is present on the conveyance path, the ultrasonic wave transmitted through the check 1 is received by the ultrasonic receiver 3. On the other hand, when the check 1 is not present on the conveyance path, the ultrasonic wave transmitted from the ultrasonic transmitter 2 is received by the ultrasonic receiver 3 as it is.

  The magnetic printing detection means 4 outputs a magnetic printing detection signal whose signal intensity changes depending on the presence or absence of magnetic printing.

  The control unit 5 supplies a pulse signal (hereinafter referred to as an ultrasonic transmission signal) to the driving unit 6 as a signal for transmitting an ultrasonic wave. The driving unit 6 amplifies the ultrasonic transmission signal supplied from the control unit 5 and outputs an ultrasonic transmission pulse. Thereby, the ultrasonic transmitter 2 transmits an ultrasonic wave based on the ultrasonic wave transmission pulse whose signal is amplified. The ultrasonic transmission signal supplied from the control means 5 to the drive means 6 is a signal having pulses for several cycles over a certain time, for example.

  The signal amplifying unit 7 amplifies the ultrasonic reception signal output from the ultrasonic receiver 3. If there is a check 1 that is a conveyance target between the ultrasonic transmitter 2 and the ultrasonic receiver 3, the ultrasonic wave transmitted from the ultrasonic transmitter 2 is attenuated before reaching the ultrasonic receiver 3. It will be a weak signal. Further, the amplitude of the ultrasonic reception signal output from the ultrasonic receiver 3 is also weak. Therefore, this is amplified by the signal amplifying means 7 and raised to a signal amplitude capable of determining double feed detection.

  The A-D converter 8 converts the ultrasonic reception signal (analog signal) amplified by the signal amplification unit 7 into a digital signal and outputs the digital signal to the signal analysis unit 9. The A-D converter 8 converts the magnetic print detection signal (analog signal) from the magnetic print detection unit 4 into a digital signal and outputs the digital signal to the signal analysis unit 9.

  The signal analysis unit 9 analyzes the ultrasonic reception signal digitized by the A / D converter 8 and the digitized magnetic printing detection signal, and outputs the analysis result to the control unit 5. The control means 5 performs control such as stopping the operation of the paper conveying means (not shown) or displaying a message on the display unit (not shown) to notify the user of double feeding according to the analysis result. The signal analysis means 9 and the control means 5 can be realized by, for example, a combination of a CPU and a computer program, or an ASIC.

  The storage unit 10 holds setting values and data used in the multifeed detection device 11. Specifically, the storage means 10 includes the number of pulses of the ultrasonic transmission signal, the amplitude of the ultrasonic transmission signal, the frequency of the ultrasonic transmission signal, the acquisition time of the ultrasonic reception signal, the ultrasonic double feed detection level (threshold), Holds set values such as the magnetic print detection level (threshold). Further, the control means 5 controls each means so as to perform double feed detection using those set values held in the storage means 10.

  The signal analysis unit 9 includes an ultrasonic double feed determination unit 12 and a magnetic print determination unit 13. The digitized ultrasonic reception signal is processed by the ultrasonic multifeed determination unit 12. The digitized magnetic printing detection signal is processed by the magnetic printing determination unit 13. The signal analysis unit 9 analyzes the determination result of the ultrasonic double feed determination unit 12 and the determination result of the magnetic printing determination unit 13 and determines whether double feed is occurring.

  Drawing 2 is a figure showing an example of the sheet-like member in an embodiment. The magnetic print image 1-a is, for example, a MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition) image. The magnetic print image 1-a is a character string (financial institution or amount information) printed using a magnetic printing material. The reason for printing the MICR image using the magnetic printing material is to automatically detect and process the magnetic information of the MICR image by a magnetic head (not shown) when the check 1 is conveyed to the check scanner. The MICR image is printed on the clear band 1-b. The clear band 1-b is an area designated so that an unspecified image is not printed except for the MICR image, the ground color, and the ground pattern. The non-clear band 1-c is an area where an MICR image is not printed and an amount and a signature are entered with a normal pen or the like. A ground color and a ground pattern may be printed on the non-clear band 1-c.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the conveyance protection member in the embodiment. Since Check 1 is a sheet-like member, it is easily broken. Therefore, the damaged check 1 may be generally carried in a translucent envelope called an envelope.

  In FIG. 3, the envelope 1 'is shown with a check 1 stored therein. The upper part of the envelope 1 'is open, and the check 1 can be inserted into the inside from this upper part. 1-a ′, 1-b ′, and 1-c ′ of the envelope 1 ′ are a magnetic print image (MICR image), a clear band, and a non-clear band, respectively, similarly to the check 1. The same character string as the MICR image 1-a printed in the stored check 1 is printed as the MICR image 1-a '. This is because MICR information can be read using a magnetic head for MICR reading even when check 1 is put in envelope 1 '. The clear band 1-b 'is bonded to the front and back. This is to prevent check 1 from entering the clear band 1-b '. The non-clear band 1-c ′ is bonded to the front and back at the left end and the front and back at the right end. Check 1 is stored between the left end and the right end. When Check 1 is stored in the envelope 1 ′, the clear band 1-b of Check 1 is positioned above the clear band 1-b ′ of the envelope 1 ′.

  The material of the envelope 1 'will be described. The sheet on the front side of the envelope 1 'is a substantially transparent sheet material so that the check 1 placed therein can be seen. The sheet on the back side of the envelope 1 'is a translucent sheet material. The sheet on the back side of the envelope 1 'is generally made of a material such as paper so that a stamp called an endorser can be pressed. A material such as paper is attached to the front side sheet of the clear band 1-b 'so that the MICR image can be printed.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example in which only the check in the embodiment is conveyed. Check 1 moves from the right to the left in the figure while standing. At this time, the check 1 is transported with the lower side of the clear band 1-b in contact with the transport path bottom surface 40 due to gravity. Gravity works from the top to the bottom of the figure. Thus, the conveyance path bottom surface 40 functions as a restricting means for restricting the position through which one side of the sheet-like member passes.

  The magnetic print detecting means 4 may be any element that can detect magnetism from the MICR image 1-a via the envelope 1 ′, such as a magnetic head, a magnetoresistive element, a Hall element, a magneto-impedance element, or the like. 4 are installed at the positions shown in FIG. The non-clear band 1-c of Check 1 passes through the installation position of the magnetic print detection means 4. This is because the height h2 up to the lower limit of the installation position of the magnetic printing detection means 4 is higher (the value is larger) than the height h1 of the clear band 1-b from the conveyance path bottom surface 40. In this way, when the check 1 is conveyed as it is, the magnetic printing detection unit 4 does not detect the MICR image 1-a that is magnetic printing. This is because the MICR image 1-a on the clear band 1-b does not pass through the installation position of the magnetic print detection means 4. The installation position of the magnetic printing detection unit 4 may be referred to as a detectable position.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example in which the envelope 1 ′ storing the check 1 in the embodiment is conveyed. The clear band 1-b of Check 1 passes through the installation position of the magnetic printing detection means 4. That is, the height of the clear band 1-b ′ of the envelope 1 ′ is set in advance so that the MICR image 1-a passes between the upper limit (upper bottom) and the lower limit (lower bottom) of the magnetic printing detection means 4. Designed. Therefore, the magnetic print detection unit 4 detects the MICR image 1-a. 4 and 5, the installation position of the magnetic print detection means 4 is the same. The bottom side of the envelope 1 ′ is also transported along the transport path bottom surface 40. Therefore, the conveyance path bottom surface 40 also functions as a restricting means for the envelope 1 ′.

  By setting the size of check 1, the size of envelope 1 ′, and the installation position of magnetic printing detection means 4 as described above, whether only check 1 has been transported from the detection result of magnetic printing detection means 4 or check 1 is enveloped It becomes possible to determine whether or not the sheet has been transferred into 1 '.

  6 and 7 are diagrams showing the installation position of the magnetic head in the embodiment. The magnetic head 60 is information reading means that detects the MICR image 1-a and reads the magnetic information. Therefore, the magnetic print detection means 4 differs from the magnetic head 60 in the arrangement position and the arrangement purpose. The magnetic head 60 needs to detect the magnetism from the MICR image 1-a and read the printed content. Therefore, when the check 1 is transported as shown in FIG. 6, the position where the clear band 1-b of the check 1 passes, and when the check 1 is transported in the envelope 1 ′ as shown in FIG. Is arranged at a position where the clear band 1-b ′ of the envelope 1 ′ passes. From the output signal of the magnetic head 60 installed at such a position, it is impossible to determine whether only the check 1 has been transported or whether the check 1 has been transported in the envelope 1 ′ from the presence or absence of magnetic printing. Therefore, the magnetic printing detection means 4 is required.

  There are two types of determination results of the ultrasonic multifeed determination unit 12. These are a determination result that one check has been conveyed and a determination result that two or more checks have been conveyed. There are also two types of determination results of the magnetic printing determination unit 13. The determination result that the magnetic printing was not detected (the check is not stored in the envelope) and the determination result that the magnetic printing was detected (the check is stored in the envelope). Therefore, there are 2 × 2 = 4 combinations of the determination result of the ultrasonic multifeed determination unit 12 and the determination result of the magnetic printing determination unit 13. However, it is impossible to determine that the ultrasonic double-feed determination unit 12 has been transported and that the magnetic printing determination unit 13 is in the envelope. This is because when the check 1 is put in the envelope 1 ′, the ultrasonic multifeed determination unit 12 determines that there are two or more sheets. Therefore, three combinations excluding this combination are combinations of determination results that can actually occur.

  Next, a specific example of an ultrasonic reception signal waveform (amplified and digitized signal, hereinafter omitted) and a magnetic printing detection signal waveform (digitized signal, hereinafter omitted) will be shown using a figure, and signal analysis for both waveforms will be shown. The determination result of the means 9 will be described.

  FIG. 8 is a table showing the correspondence between the determination results of the determination units and the explanatory diagrams for all the transport states. Here, when the ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is no suspicion of double feeding (1 check or less), it is determined that the sheet-like member is not double fed. In addition, even if the ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding (two or more checks), if the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing has been detected, the sheet-like member is double fed. Judge that it is not. This is the case where the envelope storing the check is being carried. When the ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding and the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing is not detected, it is determined that the sheet-like member is double feeding. This is a case where two checks are double-fed.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a waveform when one check 1 is conveyed (when double check is not performed). In particular, the middle part of FIG. 9 shows an ultrasonic wave reception signal waveform 90. The lower part of FIG. 9 shows a magnetic printing detection signal waveform 91. Each corresponds to the check shown in the upper part of FIG. Note that the wavy waveform represents the influence of noise.

  The ultrasonic wave reception signal waveform 90 is configured such that when the ultrasonic wave is attenuated by the check 1, the signal intensity decreases. The threshold value S1 is between the first signal intensity when only one check 1 is conveyed (when not double-fed) and the second signal intensity when two sheets are conveyed (when double-fed). Is set. The threshold value S1 is held in the storage unit 10. When the signal strength is lower than this threshold value S1, it can be determined that the double feed.

  The signal intensity of the ultrasonic wave reception signal waveform 90 shown in FIG. 9 does not fall below the threshold value S1. For this reason, the ultrasonic double feed determination unit 12 determines that only one sheet has been conveyed. On the other hand, the signal strength of the magnetic print detection signal is increased when the MICR image 1-a has detected magnetic printing because it has passed the detectable position of the magnetic print detection means 4.

  The threshold value S2 of the magnetic printing detection signal is set between the third signal intensity when the magnetic printing is not detected and the fourth signal intensity when the magnetic printing is detected. The threshold value S2 is also held in the storage means 10. When the signal strength exceeds the threshold value S2, the magnetic printing determination unit 13 determines that there is magnetic printing (that is, check 1 is included in the envelope 1 ').

  The magnetic printing detection signal waveform 91 shown in the lower part of FIG. 9 is a signal in which only the noise signal intensity appears because no magnetic printing is detected, and does not exceed the threshold value S2. For this reason, the magnetic printing determination unit 13 determines that there is no magnetic printing (that is, check 1 is not put in the envelope 1 '). The signal analyzing means 9 recognizes from the two determination results that only one sheet has been conveyed and that it has not been placed in the envelope 1 ′, and can determine that no double feed has occurred.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a waveform when the check 1 is double-fed. The signal intensity of the ultrasonic reception signal represented by the ultrasonic reception signal waveform 1000 is always below the threshold value S1 while the overlapping portion of the check overlapped by double feeding passes through the installation position of the ultrasonic receiver. For this reason, the ultrasonic double feed determination unit 12 determines that two or more sheets have been conveyed. The signal strength of the magnetic print detection signal represented by the magnetic print detection signal waveform 1001 does not exceed the threshold value S2. For this reason, the magnetic printing determination unit 13 determines that there is no magnetic printing (that is, check 1 is not put in the envelope 1 '). Since the signal analysis means 9 recognizes from the two determination results that two or more sheets are conveyed and is not put in the envelope 1 ′, it can be determined that double feeding has occurred.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a waveform example when a check is carried in an envelope. The signal intensity of the ultrasound reception signal represented by the ultrasound reception signal waveform 1100 is always below the threshold S1 while the envelope 1 'is being conveyed. For this reason, the ultrasonic double feed determination unit 12 determines that two or more sheets are being conveyed. On the other hand, the signal strength of the magnetic print detection signal represented by the magnetic print detection signal waveform 1101 exceeds the threshold S2 at the location where the MICR image 1-a of Check 1 is detected. For this reason, the magnetic printing determination unit 13 determines that there is magnetic printing (that is, check 1 is put in envelope 1 '). The signal analyzing means 9 recognizes from the two determination results that two or more sheets have been conveyed and that they have been placed in the envelope 1 ′, and has not carried a double feed (has been carried in the envelope) ).

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the double feed detection method according to the embodiment. In step S1201, the ultrasonic double feed determination unit 12 determines whether or not the ultrasonic reception signal indicates a suspicion of double feed. For example, the ultrasonic multifeed determination unit 12 determines whether or not the signal intensity of the ultrasonic reception signal is lower than the threshold value S1. If it is not lower, no double feed has occurred, and the process advances to step S1204. In step S <b> 1204, the control unit 5 performs normal processing such as magnetic information reading processing by the magnetic head 60.

  On the other hand, if the signal intensity of the ultrasonic wave reception signal waveform is below the threshold value S1, there is a suspicion of double feeding, and the process proceeds to step S1202. In step S1202, the magnetic printing determination unit 13 determines whether the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing is detected. For example, the magnetic printing determination unit 13 determines whether or not the signal strength of the magnetic printing detection signal exceeds the threshold value S2. If the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing is detected, the envelope storing the check is being conveyed and no double feed has occurred. Therefore, also in this case, the process proceeds to step S1204.

  On the other hand, if the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing has not been detected, the process advances to step S1203 because double feeding has occurred. In step S1203, the control unit 5 executes double feed processing such as notification (display) of double feed and stop of conveyance.

  According to the present embodiment, it is possible to improve the accuracy of double feed detection when an envelope or the like storing a check is conveyed, and to prevent the user from taking time. That is, it is possible to reduce the time and effort for the user to switch between valid / invalid of the double feed detection function.

  Further, by utilizing the fact that the position of magnetic printing is changed with respect to the position of the magnetic printing detection means when the sheet-like member is conveyed alone and when the sheet-like member is stored in the conveyance auxiliary member, The presence or absence of sending can be detected with high accuracy.

  Further, the position where the sheet-like member and the conveyance auxiliary member pass is aligned by standing and conveying the sheet and causing the bottom surface of the conveyance path to function as the regulating means, so that it is possible to accurately detect the presence or absence of double feeding. .

  Furthermore, even if the ultrasonic reception signal indicates that a plurality of sheet-like members are being conveyed, if magnetic printing is detected, it is not determined that double feeding has occurred. Therefore, even if the sheet-like member is stored and conveyed in the conveyance auxiliary member, it is less likely that the occurrence of double feeding is erroneously recognized.

[Second Embodiment]
In the first embodiment, it is assumed that multiple checks cause multiple feeds, and it is assumed that multiple feeds due to checks and envelopes do not occur. However, in practice, it is also possible that double feeding occurs due to the check placed in the envelope and another check.

  However, the ultrasonic reception signal and the magnetic print detection signal in the case where the double feed between the check in the envelope and another check occurs are the same as the example shown in FIG. Therefore, it is not possible to discriminate double feeding by the envelope and the check only from these two signals.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, it is proposed to add a configuration for detecting double feed between a check in an envelope and another check.

  First, an outline of the present embodiment will be described. The envelope in which the check is stored corresponds to a stack of three sheets (a sheet on the front surface of the envelope, a sheet on the back surface of the check and the envelope). If another check is overlapped and conveyed with such an envelope, four sheets are conveyed simultaneously. Therefore, a configuration for determining whether the number of sheets is three or less or four or more is necessary. Generally, when the number of shields interposed between the transmitter and the receiver of the ultrasonic sensor increases, the ultrasonic wave is greatly attenuated. Therefore, by branching the ultrasonic reception signal and increasing the amplification factor of one of them, it is possible to determine whether the number of sheets is three or less or four or more. Of course, if there are four or more sheets, it is recognized that double feeding has occurred.

  FIG. 13 is a schematic block diagram of a double feed detection device according to the second embodiment. The parts already described are given the same reference numerals to simplify the description. In the double feed detection device 14 according to the second embodiment, a second signal amplifying unit 15 and a second ultrasonic double feed determination unit 16 are added to the double feed detection device 11. In addition, the signal analysis means 9 is replaced with the signal analysis means 17 to which the second ultrasonic double feed determination unit 16 is added.

  According to FIG. 13, the second signal amplifying unit 15 further amplifies the ultrasonic reception signal output from the ultrasonic receiver 3 and amplified by the signal amplifying unit 7. The second signal amplifying means 15 is provided for discriminating a difference between the case where there are three sheets and the case where there are four sheets.

  The highly amplified ultrasonic reception signal (analog signal) amplified by the second signal amplifying unit 15 is converted into a digital signal by the AD converter 8 and sent to the signal analyzing unit 17. As described above, the signal amplified by the second signal amplifying unit 15 and the signal not amplified by the second signal amplifying unit 15 are input to the signal analyzing unit 17.

  Note that the output of the ultrasonic receiver 3 may be branched into two, one being amplified by the signal amplification means 7 and the other being amplified by the second signal amplification means 15. However, the amplification factor of the second signal amplification unit 15 needs to be set higher than the amplification factor of the signal amplification unit 7. Note that the signal path in this case is indicated by a broken line 1301. Further, instead of providing the second signal amplifying means 15, control for changing the amplification factor of the signal amplifying means 7 may be performed according to the number of double feed judgments.

  The second ultrasonic double feed determination unit 16 included in the signal analysis unit 17 processes the digitized high-amplification ultrasonic reception signal. The signal analysis means 17 uses the determination result of the ultrasonic double feed determination unit 12, the determination result of the magnetic printing determination unit 13, and the determination result of the second ultrasonic double feed determination unit 16 to determine whether double feed has occurred. Is determined.

  FIG. 14 is a table showing the correspondence between the determination results of the determination units and the explanatory diagrams for all the transport states when the check with the envelope is transported. Here, if the ultrasonic double feed determination unit determines that there is no suspicion of double feed using an ultrasonic reception signal that is not illustrated but not highly amplified, a single check is conveyed without double feed. It is determined that In addition, when the ultrasonic reception signal that is not highly amplified indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding (two or more) and the signal strength of the magnetic printing detection signal is weak, indicating that magnetic printing has not been detected. , It is determined that the check is double feeding. This is a case where multiple checks are double-fed or double-fed with a check above the envelope. Furthermore, even if the ultrasonic reception signal that is not highly amplified indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding, and the magnetic print detection signal indicates that magnetic printing has been detected, the highly amplified ultrasonic reception signal is used. When the second ultrasonic double feed determination unit determines that there is a suspicion of double feed (four or more sheets), it is determined that the check is double fed. This is a case where the envelope and the check are double-fed. Furthermore, an ultrasonic reception signal that is not highly amplified indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding (two or more sheets), and a magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing has been detected, and an ultrasonic reception that is highly amplified. When the signal indicates that there is no suspicion of double feeding (three or less), it is determined that the check is not double feeding. This is the case where only one set of envelopes is being transported.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a waveform example when one set of items in which the check 1 is put in the envelope 1 ′ is conveyed (when not double-fed). A highly amplified ultrasonic wave reception signal waveform 1500 is a waveform of a signal output from the second signal amplification means 15.

  The signal intensity of the ultrasonic reception signal represented by the high-amplification ultrasonic reception signal waveform 1500 is reduced when the ultrasonic wave is attenuated by the check 1. However, even in the check 1 including the envelope, the signal intensity does not fall below the threshold value S3. It is like that. The threshold value S3 is a fifth signal strength which is a signal strength corresponding to the case where three check 1s are transported (when only the check 1 with an envelope is transported and not double-fed), and the check 1 is 4 It is set between the sixth signal strength which is the signal strength (when double feeding) corresponding to the time when the sheet is conveyed. The threshold value S3 is held in the storage unit 10. When the signal strength is lower than the threshold value S3, the signal analysis means 17 can determine that double feeding has occurred. In the waveform shown in FIG. 15, the signal intensity does not fall below the threshold value S3. For this reason, the second ultrasonic double-feed determining unit 16 determines that the number of conveyed sheets is three or less.

  Note that the determination methods of the ultrasonic multifeed determination unit 12 and the magnetic print determination unit 13 are as described in the first embodiment. Therefore, both determination results are the same as in the example of FIG. The ultrasonic double feed determination unit 12 determines that two or more checks 1 are being conveyed, and the magnetic printing determination unit 13 determines that there is magnetic printing (check 1 is included in the envelope 1 ′).

  From these three determination results, the signal analysis means 17 recognizes that two or more sheets are conveyed, placed in the envelope 1 ', and that there are three or less sheets. As a result, the signal analyzing means 17 can determine that double feed has not occurred (has been transported in an envelope).

  FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a waveform when the check 1 is put in the envelope 1 ′ and another check 18 is double-fed. The item in which the check 1 is put in the envelope 1 ′ is on the side close to the magnetic printing detection unit 4, and the other check 18 that is double-fed is on the side far from the magnetic printing detection unit 4.

  The highly amplified ultrasonic wave reception signal waveform 1601 is always below the threshold value S3 during double feeding. For this reason, the second ultrasonic multifeed determination unit 16 determines that four or more check 1s are being conveyed. Note that the determination method of the ultrasonic double feed determination unit 12 and the magnetic print determination unit 13 is the same as the example of FIG. Therefore, the ultrasonic double feed determination unit 12 determines that two or more check 1s are being conveyed. The magnetic printing determination unit 13 determines that there is magnetic printing (check 1 is put in the envelope 1 ').

  From these three determination results, the signal analysis means 17 recognizes that two or more sheets are conveyed, that they are put in the envelope 1 ′, and that there are four or more sheets. As a result, the signal analyzing means 17 can determine that double feed has occurred (conveyed in an envelope and double feed has occurred).

  FIG. 17 is a diagram showing another waveform example when the check 1 is put in the envelope 1 ′ and another check 18 is double-fed. The example of FIG. 17 is different from the example of FIG. 16 in that the check 18 that is double-fed is closer to the magnetic printing detection means 4 and the object in which the check 1 is placed in the envelope 1 ′ is the far side from the magnetic printing detection means 4. It is a point.

  If the double check 18 is interposed between the MICR image 1-a of Check 1 placed in the envelope 1 'and the magnetic printing detection means 4, the signal strength of the magnetic printing detection signal waveform 1701 becomes weak. Therefore, the magnetic printing detection signal waveform 1701 does not exceed the threshold value S2. For this reason, the magnetic printing determination unit 13 determines that there is no magnetic printing (that is, check 1 is not put in the envelope 1 '). This determination result means that the sheet being conveyed on the side close to the magnetic print detection means is not placed in the envelope 1 '.

  The signal strength of the ultrasonic reception signal represented by the ultrasonic reception signal waveform 1700 is always below the threshold S1 while the envelope is being conveyed. For this reason, the ultrasonic double feed determination unit 12 determines that two or more check 1s are being conveyed. From these two determination results, the signal analysis means 17 recognizes that two or more sheets have been conveyed. Further, the signal analyzing means 17 recognizes that it is not put in the envelope 1 '. As a result, the signal analyzing means 17 can determine that double feeding has occurred.

  The case where the signal strength of the magnetic printing detection signal represented by the magnetic printing detection signal waveform 1701 becomes weak and does not exceed the threshold value S2 has been described using the example shown in FIG. On the other hand, since the signal strength of the magnetic printing detection signal does not become weak and may exceed the threshold value S2, this case will be described.

  When the signal strength of the magnetic printing detection signal exceeds the threshold value S2, the waveform is the same as the example in FIG. The ultrasonic reception signal and the highly amplified ultrasonic reception signal are the same as in the example of FIG. Therefore, the determination results of the ultrasonic multifeed determination unit 12, the magnetic print determination unit 13, and the high-amplification second ultrasonic multifeed determination unit 16 are the same as in the example of FIG. That is, the ultrasonic double feed determination unit 12 determines that two or more checks 1 are being conveyed, and the magnetic printing determination unit 13 determines that there is magnetic printing (check 1 is included in the envelope 1 ′). Then, the second ultrasonic multifeed determination unit 16 determines that four or more check 1s are being conveyed.

  Therefore, from these three determination results, the signal analyzing means 17 recognizes that two or more sheets are being conveyed, placed in the envelope 1 ′, and that there are four or more sheets. Eventually, the signal analyzing means 17 can determine that double feed has occurred (conveyed in an envelope and double feed has occurred).

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the double feed detection method according to the embodiment. Note that the same reference numerals are assigned to the portions that have already been described to simplify the description. If magnetic printing is detected in step S1202, the process proceeds to step S1801.

  In step S1801, the second ultrasonic double feed determination unit 16 determines whether or not the ultrasonic reception signal indicates a suspicion of double feed. For example, the second ultrasonic multifeed determination unit 16 determines whether the signal intensity of the highly amplified ultrasonic reception signal is below the threshold value S3. If it is not lower, no double feed has occurred, and the process advances to step S1204. On the other hand, if the signal intensity of the highly-amplified ultrasonic reception signal is below the threshold value S3, double feed has occurred, and the process proceeds to step S1203.

  According to the present embodiment, it is possible to accurately detect double feeding by a conveyance auxiliary member storing a sheet-like member and another sheet-like member. In particular, it is possible to reduce costs because it is not necessary to add an ultrasonic wave transmitting means or an ultrasonic wave receiving means only by adding an amplifying means.

[Third Embodiment]
In the second embodiment, by providing the second signal amplifying means 15, heavy equipment detection equivalent to the case where two ultrasonic sensors having different sensitivities are arranged is performed. The present embodiment realizes a high-performance multifeed detection device with less detection omission by a method different from that of the second embodiment. Specifically, a light emitting means that is disposed on one side of the conveyance path and emits light in the direction of the sheet-like member, and a light emitting means that is disposed on the other side of the conveyance path and receives light from the light emitting means. Light receiving means for outputting a light receiving signal is added. Accordingly, it is possible to determine whether or not the sheet-like member is double-feeding based on the light reception signal, the ultrasonic wave reception signal, and the magnetic printing detection signal.

  FIG. 19 is a schematic block diagram of a double feed detection device 19 according to the third embodiment. The double feed detection device 19 is a device that detects double feed using an optical sensor in addition to the above-described ultrasonic sensor and magnetic sensor. That is, the configuration of the double feed detection device 19 is the same as that of the double feed detection device 11 shown in FIG. 1 showing the first embodiment, but the light emitting means 20, the light receiving means 21, the light emitting unit driving means 22, the light receiving signal amplifying means 23 and the optical. A double feed determination unit 24 is added. Further, the signal analysis means 9 is replaced with a signal analysis means 25 provided with an optical double feed determination unit 24.

  The light emitting means 20 is a light emitting element (for example, LED) that emits infrared light to the check 1. The light receiving means 21 is a light receiving element (for example, a photodiode) that receives infrared light emitted from the light emitting means 20. As shown in FIG. 19, the light receiving means 21 is installed so as to face the light emitting means 20 across the conveyance path of the check 1 so that the infrared light transmitted through the check 1 can be received. As a result, the infrared light emitted from the light emitting means 20 passes through the check 1 and the light receiving means 21 receives the transmitted light. The light receiving means 21 outputs a signal (light reception signal) whose output voltage changes according to the received light intensity of the received infrared light.

  As described above, the infrared light transmitted through the check 1 is received by the light receiving means 21 when the check 1 exists in the transport path, but the red light emitted from the light emitting means 20 when the check 1 does not exist in the transport path. The outside light is received by the light receiving means 21 without being blocked.

  Returning to the description with reference to FIG. The control means 5 supplies a signal (hereinafter referred to as a light emission signal) for controlling the amount of infrared light emitted from the light emitting means 20 and the light emission timing (hereinafter referred to as a light emission signal) to the light emitting unit driving means 22. The light emitting unit driving unit 22 causes the light emitting unit 20 to emit light at a predetermined light amount and timing in accordance with the light emission signal supplied from the control unit 5.

  The light reception signal amplifying unit 23 amplifies the light reception signal output from the light reception unit 21. This is because when the check 1 which is the object to be transported is inserted between the light emitting means 20 and the light receiving means 21, the infrared light emitted from the light emitting means 20 is attenuated by reflection, scattering, absorption, etc. before reaching the light receiving means 21. However, the amount of light becomes very small. For this reason, the amplitude of the received light signal output from the light receiving means 21 is also weak. Therefore, this is amplified by the received light signal amplifying means 23 and raised to a signal amplitude that can be determined for double feed detection.

  The AD converter 8 converts the light reception signal (analog signal) amplified by the light reception signal amplification means 23 into a digital signal and outputs the digital signal to the signal analysis means 25. The signal analysis unit 25 is a unit obtained by adding an optical multifeed determination unit 24 to the signal analysis unit. A signal obtained by amplifying and digitizing the received light signal output from the light receiving means 21 is processed by the optical multi-feed determining unit 24. The signal analysis unit 25 determines whether or not the check 1 is a double feed based on the determination results of the ultrasonic multifeed determination unit 12, the magnetic print determination unit 13, and the optical multifeed determination unit 24.

  By the way, the infrared light is generally greatly attenuated by the printing material (printed image) attached to the check other than during double feeding. For this reason, there is a possibility that the amount of transmitted light may be reduced depending on the print image even when the double feed is not performed, and the double feed cannot be determined.

  FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating examples of positions of the light emitting unit 20 and the light receiving unit 21 according to the embodiment. As a measure for alleviating this, the light emitting means 20 and the light receiving means 21 are arranged in a position where the MICR image 1-a can be avoided in the clear band 1-b. This means that the position where the infrared light irradiation position (transmission position) can avoid the MICR image 1-a is sufficient. Since the clear band 1-b is defined as an area where unspecified printing other than the MICR image 1-a is not performed, the clear band 1-b is a place having the least influence by printing. In this way, the light emitting means is arranged so as to irradiate light at a position avoiding the area where the magnetic printing material is adhered in the area designated for magnetic printing of the sheet-like member.

  FIG. 21 is a table showing the correspondence between the determination results of the determination units and the explanatory diagrams for all the transport states when the check with the envelope is transported. Here, when the ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is no suspicion of double feeding, it is determined that the check is not double feeding. This is the case where only one check is being transported. If the ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding and the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing is not detected, it is determined that the check is double feeding. This is a case where a plurality of checks are double-fed. Furthermore, even if the ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding, and the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing has been detected, It is determined that the check is double feeding. This is a case where a check put in the envelope and a check different from the check are double-fed. Furthermore, if the ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding, the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing has been detected, and the light reception signal indicates that there is no suspicion of double feeding, a check is made. It is determined that there is no double feed. This is the case where only one set of envelopes is being transported.

  Next, a specific example of the waveform of the light reception signal (amplified and digitized signal; hereinafter abbreviated) will be shown using the figure, and the determination result of the signal analysis means 25 for the light reception signal will be described. The lower part of FIG. 20 described above shows a light reception signal waveform 2001 when one set of items in which the check 1 is put in the envelope 1 ′ is conveyed, that is, when the double feed is not performed.

  The signal intensity (voltage in this example) of the received light signal decreases when infrared light is attenuated by check 1. The threshold S4 is the seventh signal intensity when only one check 1 is conveyed (when not double-fed) and the eighth signal intensity when two sheets are conveyed (when double-fed). Is set in between. The threshold value S4 is held in the storage unit 10. When the signal intensity falls below the threshold value S4, the signal analysis unit 25 determines that double feeding has occurred (two or more sets). The signal intensity of the light reception signal shown in FIG. 20 does not fall below the threshold value S4. For this reason, the optical multi-feed determining unit 24 of the signal analyzing unit 25 determines that only one sheet of sheets or sheets contained in the envelope 1 ′ has been conveyed.

  It should be noted that the received light signal intensity when one check 1 is transported and the received light signal intensity when one set of check 1 in the envelope 1 'is transported are approximately the same. This is because the light emitting means 20 and the light receiving means 21 are arranged in the conveyance path so as to correspond to the clear band 1-b ', so that infrared light passes through the clear band 1-b'. The clear band 1-b 'includes two sheets, front and back, and a sheet made of paper or the like for printing the MICR image 1-a'. Since the front sheet of the envelope 1 'is transparent and the back sheet is translucent, infrared light is almost transmitted. Therefore, the attenuation of infrared light between the two front and back sheets is small.

  Since the sheet made of paper or the like that is pasted on the clear band 1-b 'attenuates infrared light, the decrease in signal intensity is about the same as that in the check 1. Further, the clear band 1-b 'is bonded to the front and back, and has a structure in which the check 1 does not enter. Therefore, the infrared light is attenuated only by the clear band 1-b 'of the envelope 1' without being blocked by the check 1 placed in the envelope 1 '. From the above, the decrease in the signal intensity when one set of items in which the check 1 is put in the envelope 1 ′ is conveyed is approximately the same as when one check 1 is conveyed.

  The feature of the optical multi-feed determination unit 24 is that when only one set of items in which the check 1 is put in the envelope 1 ′ is conveyed, it is equivalent to one check and it is determined that there is no multi-feed (one set). . This determination result is different from the determination result (two or more) of the ultrasonic multifeed determination unit 12. This is because the ultrasonic double-feed determining unit 12 determines that two or more items with the check 1 in the envelope 1 ′ are included. In order to explain the determination results of the optical multifeed determination unit 24 and the ultrasonic multifeed determination unit 12 in an easy-to-understand manner, a set is used for the determination result of the optical multifeed determination unit 24 in the following. The determination result of the double feed determination unit 12 will be described using sheets as a unit.

  The determination method of the ultrasonic double feed determination unit 12 and the magnetic print determination unit 13 is as described with reference to FIG. 11 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the ultrasonic multifeed determination unit 12 determines that two or more checks 1 are being conveyed, and the magnetic printing determination unit 13 has magnetic printing (that is, check 1 is put in envelope 1 ′). The optical multi-feed determination unit 24 determines that one set as described above.

  From these three determination results, the signal analysis means 25 recognizes that two or more sheets are conveyed, that they are put in the envelope 1 ′, and that one set of sheets is conveyed. For this reason, the signal analyzing unit 25 determines that double feeding has not occurred (conveyed in an envelope).

  FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a waveform example when the check 1 is put in the envelope 1 ′ and another check 18 is double-fed. The item in which the check 1 is put in the envelope 1 ′ is on the side close to the magnetic printing detection unit 4, and the check 18 that is double-fed is on the side far from the magnetic printing detection unit 4.

  The received light signal waveform 2201 shown in the lower part of FIG. 22 is always below the threshold value S4 during double feeding. For this reason, the optical multi-feed determination unit 24 determines that multi-feed has occurred (two or more sheets have been conveyed).

  On the other hand, the determination method of the ultrasonic multifeed determination unit 12 and the magnetic print determination unit 13 is as described in the first embodiment. For this reason, the ultrasonic double feed determination unit 12 determines that two or more checks 1 are being conveyed, and the magnetic printing determination unit 13 has magnetic printing (that is, the check 1 is placed in the envelope 1 ′). Is determined.

  From these three determination results, it is signaled that two or more sheets are being conveyed, that they are in the envelope 1 ', and that two or more sheets in the sheet or envelope 1' are being conveyed. The analysis means 25 recognizes. Therefore, the signal analyzing unit 25 determines that double feeding has occurred (conveyed and double fed in an envelope).

  FIG. 17 described above shows another example in which the check 1 is put in the envelope 1 ′ and the check 18 is double-fed. The example of FIG. 17 differs from the example of FIG. 22 in that the double fed check 18 is closer to the magnetic printing detection means 4, and the check 1 placed in the envelope 1 'is farther from the magnetic printing detection means 4. It is that.

  If the check 18 fed double between the MICR image 1-a of the check 1 placed in the envelope 1 'and the magnetic printing detection means 4 is interposed, the signal strength of the magnetic printing detection signal becomes weak. Therefore, the magnetic printing detection signal does not exceed the threshold value S3. For this reason, the magnetic printing determination unit 13 determines that there is no magnetic printing (that is, check 1 is not put in the envelope 1 '). This determination result means that the sheet being conveyed on the side close to the magnetic print detection means is not placed in the envelope 1 '.

  The ultrasonic reception signal is always below the threshold S1 while the envelope 1 'is being conveyed. For this reason, the ultrasonic double feed determination unit 12 determines that two or more check 1s are being conveyed. Therefore, it can be seen from these two determination results that two or more sheets have been conveyed. It can also be seen that the envelope 1 'is not included. Therefore, the signal analyzing unit 25 determines that double feeding has occurred. The determination result of the optical multifeed determination unit 24 is not used for this determination.

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 17, the case where the signal strength of the magnetic printing detection signal becomes weak and does not exceed the threshold value S <b> 2 has been described. However, the signal strength of the magnetic printing detection signal does not become weak and may exceed the threshold value S2. In the following, another example of this will be described.

  When the magnetic printing detection signal exceeds the threshold value S2, the waveform at that time is equivalent to the waveform example shown in FIG. The ultrasonic reception signal is equivalent to the waveform example shown in FIG. 17, and the received light signal is equivalent to the waveform example shown in FIG. Therefore, the determination results of the ultrasonic multifeed determination unit 12, the magnetic print determination unit 13, and the optical multifeed determination unit 24 are the same as the example illustrated in FIG. The ultrasonic multifeed determination unit 12 determines that two or more sheets are being conveyed, and the magnetic print determination unit 13 determines that there is magnetic printing (that is, check 1 is put in the envelope 1 ′), The optical multi-feed determination unit 24 determines that two or more sets of sheets or sheets placed in the envelope 1 ′ are being conveyed.

  From these three determination results, the signal analyzing means 25 recognizes that two or more sheets are conveyed, that they are put in the envelope 1 ', and that two or more sheets are conveyed. . That is, the signal analyzing unit 17 determines that double feeding has occurred (conveyed in an envelope and double feeding has occurred).

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the double feed detection method according to the embodiment. Note that the same reference numerals are assigned to the portions that have already been described to simplify the description. If magnetic printing is detected in step S1202, the process proceeds to step S2301.

  In step S2301, the optical double feed determination unit 24 determines whether or not the light reception signal indicates a suspicion of double feed. For example, the optical multifeed determination unit 24 determines whether or not the signal intensity of the received light signal is below the threshold value S4. If it is not lower, no double feed has occurred, and the process advances to step S1204. On the other hand, if the signal intensity of the received light signal is lower than the threshold value S4, double feeding has occurred, and the process proceeds to step S1203. Note that in the case of performing determination in consideration of the above-described another example, a determination step similar to step S2301 may be added between step S1202 and step S1203.

  According to the present embodiment, by adding the light emitting means and the light receiving means, it is possible to accurately detect double feeding by the envelope 1 ′ storing the check 1 and the other check 18. Further, by devising the mounting positions of the light emitting means and the light receiving means, it is possible to reduce the influence of light attenuation accompanying magnetic printing.

  By the way, in the example shown in FIGS. 20 and 22, the determination result of the optical multi-feed determination unit 24 seems to be the determination result of the signal analysis means 25 as it is. This may raise the question that double-feed detection can be performed sufficiently using only optical double-feed detection. Therefore, a multifeed detection apparatus configured without using the ultrasonic multifeed determination unit and the magnetic print detection unit will be described.

  In the case of this configuration, it is necessary to determine whether or not the check is double feeding only by optical double feeding detection. Since there are no restrictions on the background color and background of the check, it is not possible to specify in advance what kind of printing will be performed. For this reason, there is a possibility that erroneous detection of double feeding may occur depending on the ground color and the ground pattern. As an example of a check that may cause erroneous detection, there is a check in which a color that hardly transmits infrared light (for example, dark gray) is printed on the entire surface as a background color. When such a check is conveyed, a state in which the amount of transmitted light is small from the beginning to the end of the check as compared with a general check continues. For this reason, it is difficult to determine the difference from the amount of transmitted light when a plurality of checks are double-fed, and erroneous detection of double-fed may occur. Therefore, in this configuration, the double feed detection accuracy is considered to be worse than in the configurations of the second and third embodiments.

  Next, the possibility of erroneous detection due to the ground color and the ground pattern in the optical double feed detection according to the present embodiment will be described. The optical double feed detection of this embodiment is used as an auxiliary for ultrasonic double feed detection and magnetic printing detection. Specifically, the optical double feed detection is required only when the ultrasonic double feed determination unit 12 determines that double feed and the magnetic printing determination unit 13 determines that the envelope is contained in the envelope.

  Therefore, the case where the optical double feed detection is erroneously detected (one set of sheets is determined to be two or more sets) is a case where one set of envelope is erroneously detected. Therefore, the ground color and ground pattern printed on the envelope may be considered. Since the light emitting means 20 and the light receiving means 21 are arranged in the clear band 1-b, it can be considered limited to the ground color and the ground pattern of the clear band 1-b.

  It is considered that the envelope 1 'is rarely printed with a ground pattern due to the characteristic of the conveyance auxiliary member. Further, since the MICR image 1-a is generally black, it is considered that there is a low possibility that it is difficult to view the MICR image 1-a by printing a dark ground color in a clear band.

  From the above, it is unlikely that printing or printing is performed on the clear band 1-b of the envelope 1 ′, and it is unlikely that the optical double feed detection according to the present embodiment is erroneously detected due to the ground color and the ground pattern. It is done. Therefore, it is considered that the optical double feed detection according to the present embodiment can ensure sufficient detection accuracy. Considering the above, even if the ultrasonic double feed detection is omitted from this embodiment and the configuration is changed to a combination of optical double feed detection and magnetic print detection, accurate double feed detection with a clear band is possible. Such a configuration is also included in the present invention.

  A further example will be shown for countermeasures against erroneous detection by the ground color and the ground pattern. As shown in FIG. 22, when the intensity of the received light signal decreases and falls below the threshold value S4 and continues for a predetermined period or longer, the optical double feed determination unit 24 determines that double feed is occurring. . As a result, it is possible to reduce erroneous detection due to a temporary decrease in the intensity of the received light signal due to the ground color and the ground pattern.

It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the double feed detection apparatus in 1st Embodiment. It is the figure which showed an example of the sheet-like member in embodiment. It is the figure which showed an example of the conveyance protection member in embodiment. It is the figure which showed the example which conveyed only the check in embodiment. It is the figure which showed the example which conveys the envelope 1 'which stored the check 1 in embodiment. It is the figure which showed the installation position of the magnetic head in embodiment. It is the figure which showed the installation position of the magnetic head in embodiment. It is the table | surface which showed the correspondence of the determination result of each determination part with respect to all the conveyance states, and explanatory drawing. It is the figure which showed the example of a waveform when one sheet of check 1 is conveyed (when not double feeding). It is the figure which showed the example of a waveform when the check 1 carries out double feeding. It is the figure which showed the example of a waveform at the time of putting a check in an envelope and conveying. It is the flowchart which showed an example of the double feed detection method which concerns on embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram of the double feed detection device concerning a 2nd embodiment. It is the table | surface which showed the response | compatibility of the determination result of each determination part with respect to all the conveyance states, and explanatory drawing. It is the figure which showed the example of a waveform at the time of carrying 1 set of the thing which put check 1 in envelope 1 '(when not carrying double feed). It is the figure which showed the example of a waveform when the thing which put check 1 in envelope 1 ', and the other check 18 double-feed. It is the figure which showed another example of a waveform when the thing which put check 1 into envelope 1 ', and other check 18 carried double. It is the flowchart which showed an example of the double feed detection method which concerns on embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram of the double feed detector 19 which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is the figure which showed the example of the position of the light emission means 20 and the light reception means 21 which concern on embodiment. It is the table | surface which showed the response | compatibility with the determination result of each determination part with respect to all the conveyance states, and explanatory drawing. It is the figure which showed the example of a waveform when the thing which put check 1 in envelope 1 ', and the other check 18 multifeed. It is the flowchart which showed an example of the double feed detection method which concerns on embodiment. It is the figure which showed the outline | summary of the double feed detection apparatus of the banknote described in patent document 1. FIG.

Explanation of symbols

1 Check (Sheet-like member with area designated for magnetic printing)
1-a MICR image 1-b clear band 1-c non-clear band 2 ultrasonic transmitter 3 ultrasonic receiver 4 magnetic printing detection means 5 control means 6 drive means 7 signal amplifying means 8 AD converter 9 signal analysis Means 10 Storage means 11 Multifeed judging device 12 Ultrasonic multifeed judging section 13 Magnetic printing fixed section 1 'Envelope 1-a' Envelope MICR image 1-b 'Envelope clear band 1-c' Envelope non-clear band S1 Ultrasonic double feed determination threshold S2 Magnetic printing determination threshold 14 Double feed determination device 15 having the configuration of Embodiment 2 Second signal amplification means 16 Second ultrasonic double feed determination section 17 Signal analysis means 18 Double feed check S3 Double ultrasonic double feed determination threshold 19 Double feed determination device 20 configured as in Embodiment 3 Light emitting means 21 Light receiving means 22 Light emitting section driving means 23 Light reception signal amplifying means 24 Optical double feed determination section 25 Signal analysis means S4 Optical multifeed judgment threshold 101 Banknote 102 Ultrasonic transmission means 103 Ultrasonic reception means 104 Control means 105 Drive means 106 Amplification means 107 AD converter 108 Signal analysis means 109 Storage means 110 Signal gain adjustment means

Claims (12)

A conveyance path through which a sheet-like member having an area designated for magnetic printing is conveyed;
Ultrasonic wave transmitting means disposed on one side of the transport path and transmitting ultrasonic waves in the direction of the sheet-like member;
Ultrasonic receiving means arranged on the other side of the conveying path for receiving the ultrasonic waves transmitted by the ultrasonic transmitting means and outputting ultrasonic reception signals;
Magnetic printing detection means for outputting a magnetic printing detection signal according to the presence or absence of magnetic printing of the sheet-like member;
A multifeed detection device comprising: the ultrasonic reception signal; and a multifeed determination means for determining whether or not the sheet-like member is multifeeding based on the magnetic printing detection signal. The magnetic print detection means includes
When the sheet-like member is stored and conveyed in the conveyance auxiliary member, magnetic printing of the sheet-like member can be detected, and when the sheet-like member is conveyed without being stored in the conveyance auxiliary member, the sheet-like member is detected. The multifeed detection device according to claim 1, wherein the multifeed detection device is disposed at a position where magnetic printing of the member cannot be detected. The transport path is
The multifeed detection device according to claim 2, further comprising a restricting unit for restricting a position through which one side of the sheet-like member or one side of the conveyance auxiliary member storing the sheet-like member passes. . The multifeed judging means is
When the ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is no suspicion of double feeding, it is determined that the sheet-like member is not double feeding,
Even if the ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding, if the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing has been detected, it is determined that the sheet-like member is not double feeding. ,
When the ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding and the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing is not detected, it is determined that the sheet-like member is double feeding. The multifeed detection device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein Amplifying means for amplifying the ultrasonic reception signal;
The multifeed judging means is
It is determined whether or not the sheet-like member is double-feeding based on the ultrasonic reception signal amplified by the amplification means, the ultrasonic reception signal not amplified by the amplification means, and the magnetic print detection signal The multifeed detection device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the multifeed detection device is provided. The multifeed judging means is
If the unamplified ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is no suspicion of double feeding, it is determined that the sheet-like member is not double fed,
When the unamplified ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding, and the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing is not detected, the sheet-like member is double fed. It is determined that
Even if the non-amplified ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding, and the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing has been detected, the amplified ultrasonic reception signal is double feeding. If it indicates that there is a suspicion, it is determined that the sheet-like member is double-feeding,
The non-amplified ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding, the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing has been detected, and the amplified ultrasonic reception signal is suspected of double feeding. The multifeed detection device according to claim 5, wherein when it is indicated that there is none, the sheet-like member is determined not to be multifeed. A light emitting means disposed on one side of the conveying path to irradiate light in the direction of the sheet-like member;
A light receiving means disposed on the other side of the transport path for receiving the light from the light emitting means and outputting a light reception signal;
The multifeed judging means is
4. The method according to claim 1, wherein it is determined whether or not the sheet-like member is double-feeded based on the light reception signal, the ultrasonic wave reception signal, and the magnetic printing detection signal. The double feed detection device according to the item. The multifeed judging means is
When the ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is no suspicion of double feeding, it is determined that the sheet-like member is not double feeding,
If the ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding and the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing is not detected, it is determined that the sheet-like member is double feeding. ,
Even if the ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding, and the magnetic print detection signal indicates that magnetic printing has been detected, the light reception signal indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding. , Determining that the sheet-like member is double-feeding,
When the ultrasonic reception signal indicates that there is a suspicion of double feeding, the magnetic printing detection signal indicates that magnetic printing is detected, and the light reception signal indicates that there is no suspicion of double feeding, The double feed detection device according to claim 7, wherein it is determined that the sheet-like member is not double fed. The light emitting means includes
9. The light emitting device according to claim 7, wherein the light is irradiated to a position in the region designated for magnetic printing which the sheet-like member has and which avoids the region where the magnetic printing material is attached. The double feed detection device described.   The multifeed detection apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the area designated for magnetic printing is an area where MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition) printing is performed. Transmitting ultrasonic waves in the direction of the sheet-like member by means of ultrasonic wave transmitting means disposed on one side of a conveyance path in which a sheet-like member having an area designated for magnetic printing is conveyed;
Obtaining an ultrasonic wave reception signal output by receiving and outputting the ultrasonic wave transmitted by the ultrasonic wave transmission unit by the ultrasonic wave reception unit disposed on the other side of the conveyance path;
Obtaining a magnetic printing detection signal output by the magnetic printing detection means depending on the presence or absence of magnetic printing of the sheet-like member;
And a step of determining whether or not the sheet-like member is double-feeding based on the ultrasonic wave reception signal and the magnetic printing detection signal. A conveyance path through which a sheet-like member having a designated area designated in advance that is printed using a specific printing material is conveyed;
A sending means disposed on one side of the conveying path to send at least one of ultrasonic waves or light in the direction of the sheet-like member;
A signal output means arranged on the other side of the transport path to receive the ultrasonic wave or light sent by the sending means and to output a signal;
Print detection means for outputting a print detection signal depending on the presence or absence of the printing material attached to the sheet-like member;
A double feed detection device comprising: an output signal of the signal output means; and a double feed determination means for determining whether or not the sheet-like member is double fed based on the print detection signal.

Images