JPH11110638A - Cash processing system and its accessing method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a simple and quick cash processing system capable of executing all communication from an operation management device by optical communication units included in automatic teller machines(ATMs) and a carrier. SOLUTION: The cash processing system is constituted of plural ATMs 10a to 10e for executing transaction processing by using cash stored in a cash storage, the carrier 4 for recovering/replenishing cash from/to respective ATMs 10a to 10e and the operation management device 1 for managing respective ATMs 10a to 10e. The device 1 is provided with a mechanism for recognizing the amount of cash in the storage and sending a necessary moving instruction of the carrier 4 and cash recovering/replenishing instruction to respective ATMs 10a to 10e through a communication line, the ATMs 10a to 10b are respectively provided with mechanisms for receiving the moving instruction and the processing instruction through the communication line and transmitting the received instructions to the carrier 4 by respective infrared units and the carrier 4 is provided with a mechanism for moving among respective ATMs 10a to 10d based on these instructions and recovering/replenishing cash.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to, for example, a group management of a plurality of automatic transaction devices which are arranged at each branch of a financial institution such as a bank and automatically carry out cash transactions. The present invention relates to a cash processing system for mutually using and using cash held by a company and an access method therefor.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Recently, in financial institutions and the like, automatic transaction machines (hereinafter referred to as ATMs) for automatically paying and transferring cash to customers have become widespread, and the number of such machines has been increasing. Following.

As described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 9-134470, ATMs require replenishment and collection of cash depending on the usage conditions. Conventionally, the replenishment and collection operations are performed manually. Therefore, when a large number of ATMs are installed, such replenishment and collection of cash requires a great deal of labor.

Therefore, in recent years, a plurality of ATMs and each ATM
There has been proposed a cash processing system including a cash transfer device for automatically replenishing and collecting cash without manual intervention. That is, a cassette transport means or carrier having a function of moving between a plurality of ATMs having a bill storage cassette therein and having the function of inserting and removing the bill storage cassette into and from the ATMs is inserted and removed by the cassette transport means. The banknote storage cassette recycles the banknotes of each ATM to each other.

[0005]

However, in the above prior art, the above carrier is controlled by a carrier controller. This is because an instruction to the carrier is sent from the operation management device to the carrier controller and to the carrier in a stepwise manner. , The traffic increases, resulting in a decrease in performance, reliability and cost.

In addition, since the communication protocol between the operation management measures and the carrier controller and the communication protocol between the carrier controller and the carrier are different, there is a problem that the communication protocol between the carrier controller and the carrier needs to be independently developed.

Accordingly, the present invention eliminates the need for a charging station and a carrier controller by performing communication from all operation management apparatuses using optical communication units each of which is provided by an ATM and a carrier. It is an object of the present invention to provide a cash processing system having a simpler structure that enables the above.

[0008]

According to the present invention, there are provided a plurality of automatic transaction apparatuses having a cash storage for performing a predetermined transaction processing with cash in the cash storage, and A cash processing system comprising a carrier that performs collection and replenishment of the automatic transaction device and an operation management device that is connected to the plurality of automatic transaction devices and manages the operation state, wherein the amount of cash in the cash storage of the automatic transaction device is Is recognized by the operation management device, and based on the first transmission, a carrier transfer instruction and a cash collection and replenishment processing instruction are transmitted from the operation management device to the automatic transaction device via a communication line. Means and a system, wherein the movement instruction and the processing instruction are received by the automatic transaction device from the transmission means via the communication line, and the optical communication unit is used from the automatic transaction device to the carrier. A second transmitting means for transmitting the data through the plurality of automatic transaction devices based on a moving instruction and a processing instruction received by the carrier from the second transmitting means using an optical communication unit. And a means for collecting and replenishing cash for one of the plurality of automatic transaction apparatuses.

According to the present invention, since the carrier is directly controlled from the automatic transaction device via the optical communication unit by the above structure, it is not necessary to provide a carrier controller and control the carrier from the carrier controller as in the related art. Effects such as simplification of the structure and improvement of operation reliability can be obtained.

[0010] The present invention is a plurality of automatic transaction devices having a cash storage and performing a predetermined transaction processing with cash in the cash storage, wherein at least one automatic transaction device has an external power supply unit. A cash processing system comprising: an automatic transaction device having a plurality of automatic transaction devices; a carrier for collecting and replenishing cash to the plurality of automatic transaction devices; and an operation management device connected to the plurality of automatic transaction devices and managing the operation state. Then, the operation management device recognizes the amount of cash in the cash storage of the automatic transaction device, and based on this, issues a carrier movement instruction and a cash collection and replenishment processing instruction from the operation management device. First transmitting means for transmitting to the automatic transaction apparatus via a communication line, and receiving the movement instruction and the processing instruction from the first transmission means via the communication line by the automatic transaction apparatus, A second transmitting means for transmitting from the automatic transaction apparatus to the carrier by using an optical communication unit, and based on the movement instruction and the processing instruction received from the second transmitting means using the optical communication unit on the carrier. ,
Means for the carrier to automatically travel between the plurality of automatic transaction devices, for collecting and replenishing cash for one of the plurality of automatic transaction devices, and a power supply provided in the carrier, for the automatic transaction device A cash processing system comprising: a charging device that is selectively connected to a supply unit to charge a power supply unit for automatic traveling.

According to the present invention, the power supply unit is provided in one automatic transaction apparatus, so that it is not necessary to newly provide a unit for charging.

According to the present invention, there are provided a plurality of automatic transaction apparatuses having a cash storage and performing a predetermined transaction processing with cash in the cash storage, wherein at least one automatic transaction apparatus has a power supply unit to the outside. A cash processing system comprising: an automatic transaction device having a plurality of automatic transaction devices; a carrier for collecting and replenishing cash to the plurality of automatic transaction devices; and an operation management device connected to the plurality of automatic transaction devices and managing the operation state. A first transmission unit that transmits a charging instruction to the automatic transaction device via a communication line when the operation management device detects a charge state of the carrier and determines that charging is necessary, and a system. A second transmission unit that receives the charging instruction at the automatic transaction device from the transmission unit via the communication line and transmits the received instruction to the carrier from the automatic transaction device using an optical communication unit; The carrier automatically travels between the plurality of automatic transaction devices and docks with the automatic transaction device having the power supply unit based on a charging instruction received by the carrier from the second transmission unit using an optical communication unit. And a means for obtaining and charging power from the plurality of automatic transaction devices.

The present invention shows that the system automatically performs the charging process of the carrier, and does not bother the operator with complicated operations.

According to the present invention, there are provided a plurality of automatic transaction apparatuses having a cash storage and performing predetermined transaction processing with cash in the cash storage, and collecting and replenishing cash to the plurality of automatic transaction apparatuses. A cash processing system having a carrier and an operation management device connected to the plurality of automatic transaction devices and managing this operation state, wherein the amount of cash in the cash storage of the automatic transaction device is transmitted to the operation management device. A first transmission step of transmitting, via the communication line, an instruction to move the carrier and an instruction to process cash collection and replenishment from the operation management apparatus to the automatic transaction apparatus based on the received instruction. Receiving the movement instruction and the processing instruction from the automatic transaction device via the communication line from the transmitting step and transmitting the received instruction from the automatic transaction device to the carrier using an optical communication unit. Communication step, based on the movement instruction and the processing instruction received by the carrier from the second transmission step using an optical communication unit, the carrier automatically travels between the plurality of automatic transaction devices, and the plurality of And a step of collecting and replenishing cash for one of the automatic transaction devices.

In the access method, the same effect can be obtained for the same purpose as in the case of the device.

According to the present invention, there are provided a plurality of automatic transaction apparatuses which have a cash storage and perform predetermined transaction processing with cash in the cash storage, wherein at least one automatic transaction apparatus has a power supply unit to the outside. A cash processing system comprising: an automatic transaction device having a plurality of automatic transaction devices; a carrier for collecting and replenishing cash to the plurality of automatic transaction devices; and an operation management device connected to the plurality of automatic transaction devices and managing the operation state. A first transmission step of transmitting a charge instruction to the automatic transaction device via a communication line when the operation management device detects a charge state of the carrier and determines that charging is necessary, and a system. A second transmission step of receiving the charging instruction at the automatic transaction device from the transmission step via the communication line at the automatic transaction device and transmitting the received instruction from the automatic transaction device to the carrier using an optical communication unit; The carrier automatically travels between the plurality of automatic transaction devices and docks with the automatic transaction device having the power supply unit based on a charging instruction received by the carrier from the second transmission step using an optical communication unit. And a step of obtaining and charging power from the plurality of automatic transaction apparatuses, and accessing the cash processing system.

[0017]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS One embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 schematically shows the entire configuration of the cash processing system according to this embodiment. This cash processing system includes a predetermined communication network (LAN) N
Management device 1 and hub 5 for communication connected to
Automatic transaction apparatus (hereinafter referred to as ATM) 10a, 10c, 10 having one, a plurality, for example, three optical communication units 53
e, an ATM 10b without two optical communication units 53,
10d, the operation management device 1 via the communication network (LAN) N and the monitor 2, and the ATMs 10a to 10e.
For example, a cash transfer device (hereinafter, referred to as a carrier) 4 for replenishing and collecting bills is provided as a transaction medium for each of the ATMs 10a to 10e while traveling automatically between the ATMs 10a to 10e.

The above-mentioned ATM has three out of five ATMs.
Although only one unit has an optical communication unit, all ATMs may have one.

The operation management device 1 has a communication network (L
AN) Monitors the operation status transmitted from each of the ATMs 10a to 10e via the N, supports the staff, and executes the current financial communication management processing according to the present invention, and executes each of the ATMs 10a to 1e.
0e for various control instructions. For example, a general-purpose personal computer may be used as the operation management device 1.

When the carrier 4 receives an operation instruction from the operation management device 1 through the ATMs 10a to 10e by using the optical communication unit, the carrier 4 automatically performs traveling in accordance with the operation instruction and performs bill exchange such as replenishment and collection of the bill. Is what you do.

The ATMs 10a to 10e automatically perform cash transaction processing such as payment and transfer of money to a customer at a financial institution or the like. When a change occurs and the operation state changes, the operation state is transmitted to the operation management apparatus 1 via the communication network (LAN) N.

FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of a cash processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the entire configuration of the cash processing system according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a method of attaching the connector on the ATM side according to the present invention.

In FIG. 2, the ATM 10 further includes a hub 5
1, an infrared unit 53, and an output terminal 55 for charging. Further, the carrier 4 has an infrared unit 57, a protocol conversion board 59 connected thereto, a carrier main 61 connected thereto, a power supply 63 connected to a power supply terminal for charging, and a battery 65.

Further, in FIG. 3, the carrier 4 has a charging connector 145 and unevenness 132 for docking.
136. The ATM 10a also has a charging connector 147 and projections and depressions 141 and 142 for docking.

With these configurations, communication between the operation management apparatus 1 and the carrier 4 is realized by infrared rays from a network (LAN) N branched by a hub 51 in an ATM.

The ATMs 10a and the like and the carrier 4 viewed from the operation management apparatus 1 are in the same protocol (TCP / IP) and in the same hierarchy, and do not require a special protocol that is particularly conscious of the carrier 4. The data that has passed through the protocol conversion board 59 is converted into an RS232C protocol to which the carrier's main board can be connected, thereby realizing communication with the carrier's main board.

In the charging section 65 of the carrier 4, AC 100
It has a V input connector and is connected to a power supply. The power supply unit converts the voltage into a voltage suitable for charging the battery and charges the battery.

That is, in response to a command from the operation management device 1 via the infrared units 53 and 57, the AT having the charging unit
The carrier 4 moves to M, and the unevenness 132, 136, 141, 142 of each unit assists with this, the charging connectors 145, 147 are connected, and the carrier is charged by the ATM having a charging function. Become.

As a method of charging the carrier, the operation management device 1 recognizes the charge state of the carrier and instructs the carrier to use the optical communication unit to run and charge the automatic transaction device having a charger. Is preferred. On the other hand, a method may be used in which the carrier itself determines the charging time and performs self-propelled charging.

It is to be noted that if only one ATM having a charging function is provided in the system, the function of the system is sufficient.

The operation management device 1 that has collected the information from the ATM 10a via the communication network judges the operation for accommodating the banknotes, and issues an instruction directly to the carrier 4 when it is judged that the accommodation is necessary.

Communication between the operation management device 1 and the carrier 4 is as follows.
Since the operation is performed by the infrared units 53 and 57 mounted on the ATM, the communication with the operation management apparatus 1 is performed at any time when the carrier 4 arrives before the ATM.

FIG. 4 shows a method of attaching the connector 73 to the guide plate 71 of the ATM 10a using the spring 75.

FIG. 5 shows the cash processing system shown in FIG. 1 more specifically. Of the cash processing systems actually installed at a cash corner of a financial institution, mainly the ATMs 10a to 10a to 10c. 10e, for explaining a configuration example and an installation example of the carrier 4.

In FIG. 5, ATMs 10a to 10e are:
For example, they are installed side by side on the floor 25 of the financial institution so that the rear surface is on the same plane. Three ATM1
0a to 10e are respectively connected to a communication network (LAN) N via a communication control unit. The communication network (LAN) N includes ATMs 10a to 10e.
Is connected to the operation management device 1 for monitoring the operation. And
The operation management device 1 stores the operating state of the ATM from each of the ATMs 10a to 10e, for example, a failure occurrence state, and the remaining amount of bills and coins as a handling medium in a communication network (LA).
N) Reported via N from time to time.

In the main body of each of the ATMs 10a to 10e, a cash storage unit 22 for depositing and withdrawing banknotes from and to a user is provided.

A carrier 4 is provided on the rear surface of the ATM body.
A bill delivery port for delivering bills between the cash storage unit 22 and the cash storage unit 22 is formed.

The other ATMs 10b, 10c, 10c
d and 10e are configured similarly to the above-described ATM 10a.

On the other hand, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, the carrier 4 follows a command via the communication network (LAN) N and the infrared unit of the TM, for example, on a floor 25 on a predetermined route. It is provided so that it can travel.

The carrier 4 is provided with two driving wheels 31 on the left and right sides, and a process called teaching performed at the time of installation (actually running the carrier 4 to determine a predetermined stop position of each ATM, and The process of registering the positioning information in association with the identifier) enables the vehicle to run on a route according to the table set. In addition, the carrier 4 always holds one bill storage unit 32, and a large number of bills are stored therein in a stacked state, and according to a command of the operation management device 1 via an infrared unit of the ATM. The banknote delivery port provided on the rear surface of the ATM body and the banknote delivery port provided on the surface of the carrier 4 facing the rear surface of the carrier 4 are connected (docked) by self-propelled to a position facing a predetermined ATM, The banknotes are transferred between the ATM cash storage unit 22 and the banknote storage unit 32.

Next, the operation of the current financial processing of the cash processing system having such a configuration will be briefly described.

The main processing of the current financial communication management processing includes, for example, end avoidance processing and overflow avoidance processing.

In the end avoidance processing, when an ATM having a number of banknotes equal to or less than a predetermined number (insufficient ATM) is detected, it is confirmed that there is an ATM equal to or greater than a predetermined number of surplus judgments. (Surplus ATM) is selected, and the current financial communication is performed from the surplus ATM to the deficient ATM. If there is an ATM with a shortage of bills, the banknotes are collected from the ATM with a surplus and replenished.

In the overflow avoiding process, when an ATM (overflow ATM) equal to or larger than a predetermined overflow determination number is detected, the ATM having the largest number of empty sheets (empty ATM) is selected, and the overflow ATM to the empty ATM is selected. It is a current financial bank, and if there is an ATM where banknotes are likely to overflow, the banknotes are collected and replenished to smaller ATMs.

In order to simplify the description, a case will be described in which the banknotes are simply collected from the ATM where the banknotes are slightly surplus and the banknotes are replenished with the ATMs where the banknotes are slightly insufficient.

For example, the operation management device 1 that manages the operation state and the like of a plurality of ATMs 10a to 10e installed in a cache corner always communicates with each ATM, and
The amount of money in the TM is monitored, and when an ATM with a little banknote shortage is detected, an ATM with a little banknote surplus is selected, and a start of a banknote collection operation is instructed via an optical communication unit. After that, the control right of the current financial communication processing for the carrier 4 and the ATM is transferred from the operation management device 1 to the operation management device 1, and the operation management device 1 issues a predetermined operation instruction to the carrier 4 and the ATM, and the banknotes are likely to be excessive. Collect bills from ATM.

When the banknote collection operation is completed, the operation management device 1 instructs the operation management device 1 to start a banknote replenishment operation for replenishing banknotes in an ATM having a shortage of banknotes.

The above is the end avoidance processing by the bill collecting and replenishing operations.

On the other hand, when the operation management apparatus 1 detects an ATM in which the banknotes are likely to overflow, the banknotes are collected from the ATMs in the same manner as described above, and the banknotes select and replenish the ATMs with small numbers. Perform overflow avoidance processing.

With such current financial communication processing, during the operation of the cash processing system, the withdrawal transaction or the deposit transaction is concentrated on one ATM, and the stoppage of the ATM operation due to shortage or overflow of banknotes can be avoided. The downtime of each ATM can be reduced, and cash can be efficiently exchanged among a plurality of ATMs, so that the operating funds in the entire corner can be managed to a minimum.

In the current financial communication processing, the banknote delivery ports of the ATM and the carrier 4 are docked so that the banknotes are conveyed from one side to the other side. Therefore, the management of the number of banknotes, the detection of abnormal transport of the banknotes, and the countermeasures thereof require highly reliable ones.

In order to improve the reliability of the entire operation between the ATM and the carrier 4, the cash processing system according to the present invention is designed so that the ATMs can communicate with each other when both bills are docked. For example, an infrared light communication unit is provided on the surface facing the carrier 4. That is, when the banknotes are transported between the ATM and the carrier 4, by notifying the transport status of the banknotes to each other through the infrared light communication unit in a non-contact manner, the number management of the number of bills collected or replenished, It is possible to perform detection of an abnormal transport of a bill and prompt action when the abnormal transport is detected. In addition, all carriers 4
Communication between the device and the operation management device 1 is performed by an optical communication unit.

This communication is performed between the optical communication unit 53 of the ATM and the optical communication unit 57 of the carrier 4.
This is performed by CP / IP, so that a conventional unit for controlling a carrier station or the like becomes unnecessary.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing A received from the operation management apparatus 1.
FIG. 3 schematically shows a state where the TMs communicate with each other by infrared communication using TCP / IP between the carrier 4 and the ATM when the TM performs the current financial communication processing under the control of the operation management apparatus 1.

When the operation management apparatus 1 instructs the carrier 4 on the ATM (for example, ATM 10c) of the banknote collection destination or replenishment destination and the number of banknotes to be collected or replenished,
The carrier 4 moves to the target ATM 10c.

When the banknote is conveyed, when an abnormality (for example, a banknote jam) is detected on the banknote conveyance path in either the carrier 4 or the other ATM (for example, the banknote receiving side), one of the banknotes (for example, the banknote receiving side) is detected. Communication is performed by an infrared lamp from the side) to the other side (the source of the bill) to instruct the stop of the bill transport.

Next, a procedure for transporting bills from the ATM to the carrier 4 (collecting bills) will be described with reference to a flowchart shown in FIG.

When the docking between the ATM at the bill collection destination and the carrier 4 is completed normally, a bill taking preparation instruction is sent from the operation management device 1 to the carrier 4 (step S).
31).

In the carrier 4, the motor for driving the transport path for taking in bills is turned on, a bill taking preparation operation is performed, and when the preparation is completed, a preparation completion response is sent to the operation management device 1 (steps S32 to S33). ).

After receiving the preparation completion response from the carrier 4, the operation management device 1 issues a bill removal / transport instruction to the ATM at the bill collection destination (steps S 34 to S 35). The pick-up and transfer of the bill is started (step S36). At the same time as the start of the banknote take-out / transport, the ATM manages the transport of the banknote including the inside of the carrier (step S37). The carrier 4 also independently manages the transport of the banknotes in the carrier 4 (step S3).
8).

When the output of the bill sensor is obtained from the output of the infrared unit 53 which is a TCP / IP signal, the ATM
The management status of the bills in the carrier 4 is managed in the inside.

In the case where the transport control of the banknotes is performed by the ATM, the transport control of the banknotes in the carrier by the carrier, that is, the check for the abnormal transport of the banknotes is not particularly essential.

In the ATM, the carrier and the A are kept until the collection of the number of bills specified by the operation management device 1 is completed.
The transport control of the banknote is performed based on a plurality of sensor outputs (“bright” and “dark” outputs) provided on the transport path of the banknote inside the TM, and the transport status of the banknote is checked. Specifically, detection of a bill conveyance abnormality (for example, a jam of a bill (jam)) and counting of the number of bills conveyed to the carrier 4 are performed (step S39).

If a jam has occurred, predetermined error processing is performed (step S40).

When the predetermined number of banknotes is normally collected (step S41), the process proceeds to step S42.

In the case where the banknote transport management is performed by the carrier 4, the banknote transport management is performed based on a plurality of banknote transport sensor outputs (“bright” and “dark” outputs) provided on the banknote transport path inside the carrier. And check the transport status of the bill. Specifically, the detection of a bill conveyance abnormality (for example, jamming of a bill (jam)) and the counting of the number of bills conveyed from the ATM are performed by the infrared units 53 and 5 from the ATM.
The check is performed until there is a stop signal by S7 or an instruction from the operation management device 1 (step S43).

If a jam has occurred, predetermined error processing is performed (step S40).

When there is a stop signal from the ATM or an instruction to stop the operation from the operation management apparatus 1, step S4
Proceed to 6.

The ATM counts the number of taken out banknotes.

In step S41, the ATM notifies the operation management device 1 of the number of the extracted banknotes (the number of extracted banknotes) and the completion of the extraction of the banknotes. At this time, for example, a stop (end) signal may be output to the carrier 4 in order to shorten the processing time and reduce the battery current consumption.

When the operation management device 1 receives a notification from the ATM that banknotes have been taken out, it sends an instruction to the carrier 4 to finish taking in the banknotes (steps S44 to S4).
5) In response, the carrier 4 ends the taking operation,
The operation management apparatus 1 is notified of the count value (received number) of the number of banknotes taken into the carrier 4 (step S4).
6).

The operation management device 1 compares the number of bills taken out from the ATM and the number of bills received from the carrier 4 (step S47). If the values are different, it is determined that an error has occurred and the subsequent operations are performed. (Step S4)
8). Then, this error state is transmitted to the carrier 4 and the ATM of the banknote collection source, an error is displayed on both sides, and a countermeasure is also displayed if necessary. At the time of maintenance, the carrier 4 and the AT stored in the ATM of the banknote collection source are stored.
A normal value and an abnormal value of each of the M sensors (operation control sensor and transport sensor sensor) may also be displayed.

If the number of bills to be taken out and the number of bills to be received match in step S47, the process ends normally (step S49).

Next, a procedure for transferring bills from the carrier 4 to the ATM (replenishing bills) will be described with reference to a flowchart shown in FIG.

When the docking between the ATM and the carrier 4 is completed normally, the operation management device 1 sends the ATM to the banknote replenishment destination.
Is issued (steps S51 to S53).

At the ATM where the banknotes are to be replenished, the motor for driving the transport path for the banknotes is turned on, the banknote preparation operation is performed, and when the preparation is completed, a preparation completion response is sent to the operation management device 1 (steps S54 to S54). Step S55).

After receiving the notification of the completion of the preparation from the ATM, the operation management device 1 issues a bill taking-out / transport instruction to the carrier 4 (step S56). The carrier 4 starts taking out and carrying the bill to the ATM (step S56). S57).

At the same time as the start of the bill taking-out conveyance, the ATM
The transport management of the bill including the inside of the carrier 4 is performed (step S58). The carrier 4 also independently manages the transport of the bills in the carrier 4 (step S59).

When the transport of banknotes is managed by the ATM, the transport of the banknotes in the carrier by the carrier, that is, the check for abnormal transport of the banknotes is not particularly essential.

When the banknote transport management is performed by the carrier 4, the number of banknotes specified by the operation management device 1 or the total number of banknotes stored in the banknote storage unit of the carrier 4 are replenished to the replenishment ATM. Until the bill is transported, the transport management of the bill is performed based on a plurality of bill transport sensor outputs (“bright” and “dark” outputs) provided on the bill transport path inside the carrier 4 to check the bill transport status.

More specifically, detection of a bill conveyance abnormality (for example, jamming of a bill (jam)) and counting of the number of bills conveyed to the ATM are performed (step S60).

If a jam has occurred, predetermined error processing is performed (step S61).

If the banknote replenishment operation for the predetermined number or the total number of banknotes has been completed normally (step S62), the process proceeds to step S6.
Proceed to 3.

At the replenishment ATM, a plurality of sensors provided on the carrier 4 and the banknote transport path inside the ATM until a stop signal from the carrier 4 via the infrared unit 57 or an instruction from the operation management device 1 are issued. Based on the outputs (“bright” and “dark” outputs), the transport management of the banknotes is performed, and the transport status of the banknotes is checked. Specifically, detection of a transport abnormality of the banknote (for example, jamming of the banknote (jam)) and counting of the number of banknotes transported from the carrier 4 are performed (step S64).

If a jam has occurred, predetermined error processing is performed (step S61).

When a stop signal (lighting of the infrared lamps LP1K, LP2K) from the carrier 4 or an operation stop instruction from the operation management device 1 is received, the process proceeds to step S67.

When the replenishment operation of the predetermined number or the total number of banknotes is completed normally (step S62),
The fact that the removal of the bills is completed and the number of the removed bills (the number of removed bills) are transmitted to the operation management apparatus 1 (step S63). At this time, for example, a stop (end) signal may be output to the replenishment destination ATM in order to reduce the processing time, suppress the battery consumption current, or the like.

When the operation management device 1 receives a notification from the carrier 4 that the removal of bills is completed, the replenishment destination AT
M is sent an end instruction (Steps S65 to S)
66) In response thereto, the ATM ends the taking operation, and notifies the operation management device 1 of the count value (received number) of the number of banknotes taken into the ATM (step S67).

The operation management device 1 compares the number of bills taken out from the carrier 4 and the number of bills received from the ATM of the banknote replenishment destination (step S69). If the values are different, it is determined that an error has occurred. Then, the subsequent operations are suspended (step S70). Then, this error state is transmitted to the carrier 4 and the ATM of the banknote collection source, an error is displayed on both sides, and a countermeasure is also displayed if necessary. At the time of maintenance, the normal value and the abnormal value of the carrier 4 and each sensor (operation control sensor and transport sensor sensor) stored in the ATM of the banknote collection source may be displayed.

If the number of bills to be taken out and the number of bills to be received match in step S69, the process ends normally (step S71).

Next, a process (step S39 in FIG. 7) when a paper jam (jam) occurs in the ATM while the banknote is being conveyed from the ATM to the carrier 4 will be described with reference to a flowchart shown in FIG.

During the transfer of banknotes from the ATM to the carrier 4,
When a paper jam (jam) is detected in the TM (step S81), the ATM first stops transporting the paper money (step S82). At this time, for example, a stop signal (infrared light lamp LP1A, LP2A) is output to the carrier 4 as a double management of the stop to shorten the processing time, reduce the battery current consumption, and prevent the damage of the bill. You may make it.

The ATM that has detected the jam transmits the occurrence of the jam and the number of bills conveyed to the carrier 4 to the operation management device 1 (step S83).

The operation management device 1 receives the notification of the occurrence of the jam from the ATM and instructs the carrier 4 to stop the operation of taking in the bills (steps S85 to S86).

In the carrier 4, upon receiving an instruction from the operation management device 1, the operation of taking in bills is stopped, and the count value of the number of banknotes taken into the carrier 4 so far is notified to the operation management device 1. (Steps S88 to S89).

The operation management device 1 compares the number of banknotes notified from the ATM with the number of banknotes notified from the carrier 4 (step S90). If the values are different, it is determined that an error has occurred and, for example, the ATM in which a jam has occurred is determined. Is stopped (step S91). Then, this error state is transmitted to the carrier 4 and the ATM at the bill collection destination, an error is displayed on both sides, and a countermeasure is also displayed if necessary. At the time of maintenance, the normal value and the abnormal value of the carrier 4 and the sensors (operation control sensor and transport sensor sensor) stored in the ATM at the banknote collection destination may be displayed.

If the numbers of bills match in step S90, only the carrier 4 ends normally (step S9).
2), the carrier 4 is in a state of waiting for an instruction from the operation management device 1.

Next, the processing (step S40 in FIG. 7) when a paper jam (jam) occurs in the carrier 4 during the transfer of the paper money from the ATM to the carrier 4 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. .

When a jam (jam) in the carrier 4 is detected while the banknote is being conveyed from the ATM to the carrier 4 (step S101), the ATM which detects the jam immediately stops the operation of conveying the banknote (step S101). Step S10
2). Then, the occurrence of the jam and the number of bills conveyed to the carrier 4 are transmitted to the operation management device 1 (step S10).
3). At this time, as a double management of the stop for preventing the damage of the bill, etc., a stop signal of the bill transport (the turning on of the infrared light lamps LP1A and LP2A) may be outputted to the carrier 4.

On the other hand, the carrier 4 itself in which the jam has occurred also judges itself the internal jam based on the output of the bill transport sensor.
After stopping the operation of taking in the bills, the number of bills taken into the carrier and the fact that a jam has occurred in the carrier are notified to the operation management device 1 (step S104, step S10).
5). At this time, as a double management of the stop for preventing the damage of the bill, etc., a stop signal of the bill conveyance (lighting of the infrared light lamps LP1K and LP2K) may be outputted to the ATM side. Thereafter, the carrier 4 stops operating (step S106).

The operation management device 1 that has received the notification of the occurrence of the jam in the carrier 4 from the ATM (steps S107 to S109) compares the number of bills notified from the ATM with the number of bills notified from the carrier 4. (Step S110) If the values are different, it is determined that an error has occurred and, for example, the operation of the ATM at the banknote collection destination that has detected the jam is suspended (Step S111). Then, this error state is transmitted to the carrier 4 and the ATM at the bill collection destination, an error is displayed on both sides, and a countermeasure is also displayed if necessary. At the time of maintenance, the normal value and the abnormal value of the carrier 4 and the sensors (operation control sensor and transport sensor sensor) stored in the ATM at the banknote collection destination may be displayed.

If the numbers of bills match in step S110, the internal transport path of the ATM from which the bills are collected is regarded as having no abnormality, and normal operation of only the ATM is performed (step S112).

Next, the ATM from the carrier 4 to the banknote replenishment destination
Jam in the carrier 4 while the paper money is being transported to the jam (jam)
(Step S60 in FIG. 8) when the error occurs will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

When a jam (jam) is detected in the carrier 4 while the banknote is being conveyed from the carrier 4 to the ATM to which the banknote is to be replenished (step S121), the jam A is detected.
The TM immediately stops the operation of transporting the bill (step S122). Then, the occurrence of the jam and the number of bills conveyed to the carrier 4 are transmitted to the operation management apparatus 1 (step S).
123). At this time, as a double management of the stop for preventing the damage of the bill, etc., a stop signal of the bill conveyance (the turning on of the infrared light lamps LP1A and LP2A) may be outputted to the carrier 4.

On the other hand, the carrier 4 itself in which the jam has occurred also makes a self-determination of the internal jam based on the output of the bill transport sensor.
After stopping the operation of taking in the bills, the number of bills taken into the carrier and the fact that a jam has occurred in the carrier are notified to the operation management device 1 (step S124, step S12).
5). At this time, as a double management of the stop for preventing the damage of the bill, etc., a stop signal of the bill conveyance (lighting of the infrared light lamps LP1K and LP2K) may be outputted to the ATM side. After that, the carrier 4 stops operating (step S126).

The operation management apparatus 1 that has received the notification of the occurrence of the jam in the carrier 4 from the ATM (steps S127 to S129) compares the number of bills notified from the ATM with the number of bills notified from the carrier 4. (Step S130) If the values are different, it is determined that an error has occurred, and, for example, the operation of the ATM at the banknote replenishment destination that has detected the jam is suspended (Step S131). Then, this error state is transmitted to the carrier 4 and the ATM of the banknote replenishment destination, an error is displayed on both sides, and a coping method is also displayed if necessary. At the time of maintenance, the normal value and the abnormal value of the carrier 4 and each sensor of the ATM (operation control sensor, sensor for transport sensor) stored in the ATM at the banknote replenishing destination may be displayed.

If the numbers of banknotes match in step S130, the internal transport path of the ATM to which the banknotes are to be replenished is regarded as having no abnormality, and normal operation of only the ATM is performed (step S132).

Next, the ATM from the carrier 4 to the banknote replenishment destination
When a paper jam (jam) occurs in the ATM while the paper money is being transported to the ATM (step S64 in FIG. 8)
This will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

When a paper jam (jam) is detected by the ATM while the banknote is being conveyed from the carrier 4 to the ATM to which the banknote is to be replenished (step S141), the ATM stops the conveyance of the banknote, and the infrared unit 53, A stop signal is output to the carrier 4 by using the step 57 (step S14).
2). Then, the occurrence of the jam and the number of bills conveyed from the carrier 4 are transmitted to the operation management device 1 (step S143). After that, the apparatus enters a pause state (step S14).
4).

The carrier 4 stops the taking out operation of the bill by the stop signal from the ATM (step S146), and notifies the operation management device 1 of the number of bills conveyed to the ATM so far (step S147).

The operation management apparatus 1 compares the number of banknotes notified from the ATM with the number of banknotes notified from the carrier 4 (steps S148 to S149). A that occurred
The operation of the TM is suspended (step S150). And
This error state is determined by the carrier 4 and the ATM of the banknote
And an error message is displayed on both sides, and a countermeasure is also displayed if necessary. At the time of maintenance, the normal value and the abnormal value of the carrier 4 and the sensors of the ATM (the operation control sensor and the transport sensor) stored in the ATM of the banknote replenishment destination may also be displayed.

If the numbers of bills match in step S149, only the carrier 4 is normally terminated (step S149).
151), the carrier 4 is in a state of waiting for an instruction from the operation management device 1.

As described above, the cash processing system according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of ATMs and an operation state including the amount of cash in a cash storage provided in each ATM connected to the plurality of ATMs. The operation management device comprises: a management device that manages the data; and a carrier that moves between a plurality of ATMs having the infrared unit 53 and collects and replenishes cash for each ATM. Is monitored, and when an ATM with a sense of shortage or surplus of bills is detected, the operation management device 1 is instructed to start a bill collection or replenishment operation, and the operation management device 1 controls the carrier 4 according to the instruction. Then, by performing a predetermined current financial communication operation, the fund management status of each of the plurality of ATMs is managed, and the operation is stopped due to a shortage or excess of funds during the operation of the plurality of ATMs. It is possible to prevent this from happening and to efficiently exchange the cash stored in the cash vault between a plurality of ATMs, thereby minimizing the operation funds of the entire ATM and further reducing the work of staff. Can be achieved.

Further, at the time of the current financial communication operation, the ATM and the carrier 4 where bills are collected or replenished are docked,
At this time, the banknote is conveyed from one side to the other. At that time, the ATM at the collection or replenishment destination of the banknote performs infrared light communication with the carrier 4 and conveys the banknote on the conveyance path of the banknote in the carrier 4. By recognizing the situation, the ATM where the bill is collected or replenished can directly detect the bill jam in the carrier 4. In addition, since the banknotes in the carrier can be collectively managed on the ATM side, the banknotes can be managed as one unit by the ATM and the carrier when the banknotes are transported, and therefore, the counting and management of the banknotes with high reliability can be performed.

When the banknotes are conveyed between the ATM and the carrier, both sides count the number of the received banknotes or the number of the passed banknotes, and compare the counting results with the operation management device 1 so that the banknotes are counted. Can confirm the reliability at the time of delivery operation.

When a banknote jam occurs in either the ATM or the carrier, the numbers of banknotes counted up to now are compared with each other. If the values match, the banknote jam has occurred. Those who do not have it can be operated as they are, and only the faulty part can be isolated, which can improve the operation efficiency of the system and facilitate maintenance.

[0118]

As described above, the present invention has the above-mentioned structure and function, so that a single operation management apparatus can perform unified management. That is, conventionally, a group recycling system was constructed by two control devices. However, by using one system, it is possible to reduce costs and perform real-time management by unitary management by the operation management device.

Further, according to the present invention, communication between the operation management device and the carrier controller is not required, so that traffic can be reduced. In other words, the elimination of the carrier controller eliminates the need to transmit the ATM status to the carrier controller and report the status of the carrier, thereby reducing traffic.

Further, according to the present invention, the installation space can be reduced (the degree of freedom of installation can be increased). That is, the elimination of the charging station can greatly reduce the installation space.

Further, since the carrier standby place can be set arbitrarily, the degree of freedom of installation is increased.

Further, since the teaching time is reduced, that is, since it is not necessary to return to the charging station, it is not necessary to teach the portion.

Further, the traveling distance of the carrier can be reduced, that is, since it is not necessary to return to the charging station, the traveling distance can be reduced accordingly.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating an entire configuration of a cash processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration of a cash processing system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically illustrating an entire configuration of a cash processing system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a method of attaching an ATM-side connector according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an arrangement of a cash processing system.

FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically showing a state in which a carrier and an ATM communicate with each other by infrared light communication when performing a current financial communication process in accordance with an instruction of an operation management device.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining an operation at the time of transferring bills from the ATM to the carrier.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of transferring a banknote from a carrier to an ATM.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining a processing procedure when a bill jam occurs in the ATM while the bill is being conveyed from the ATM to the carrier.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining a processing procedure when a bill jam occurs in the carrier during bill transport from the ATM to the carrier.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining a processing procedure when a bill jam occurs in the carrier while the bill is being conveyed from the carrier to the ATM.

[FIG. 12] ATM during transportation of bill from carrier to ATM
The flowchart for demonstrating the processing procedure when a banknote jam occurs in the inside.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Operation management apparatus, 2 ... Monitor 10a-10d ... Automatic transaction equipment (ATM) N ... Communication network 101 ... Charging connector, 53, 57 ... Infrared unit

Claims (10)

[Claims] 1. A plurality of automatic transaction devices having a cash storage and performing predetermined transaction processing with cash in the cash storage, and a carrier for collecting and replenishing cash to the plurality of automatic transaction devices. A cash management system having an operation management device connected to the plurality of automatic transaction devices and managing this operation state, wherein the operation management device recognizes the amount of cash in the cash storage of the automatic transaction device. And a first transmission unit for transmitting the carrier movement instruction and a cash collection and replenishment processing instruction based on the instruction from the operation management device to the automatic transaction device via a communication line; A second transmission unit that receives the movement instruction and the processing instruction from the automatic transaction device via the communication line and transmits the received instruction to the carrier from the automatic transaction device using an optical communication unit. The carrier automatically travels between the plurality of automatic transaction devices based on a movement instruction and a processing instruction received using an optical communication unit at the carrier from the second transmission means,
Means for collecting and replenishing cash for one of the plurality of automatic transaction apparatuses. 2. A plurality of automatic transaction apparatuses having a cash storage and performing predetermined transaction processing with cash in the cash storage, wherein at least one of the automatic transaction apparatuses has an optical communication unit. A cash processing system comprising: a carrier for collecting and replenishing cash to the plurality of automatic transaction devices; and an operation management device connected to the plurality of automatic transaction devices and managing the operation state, The operation management device recognizes the amount of cash in the cash storage of the transaction device, and based on this, issues a carrier movement instruction and a cash collection and replenishment processing instruction from the operation management device to the optical communication unit. A first transmitting means for transmitting to the automatic transaction apparatus via the communication line, the moving instruction and the processing instruction from the first transmitting means via the communication line Second transmission means for transmitting and receiving the same from the automatic transaction apparatus to the carrier using the optical communication unit, and a movement instruction and a processing instruction received from the second transmission means at the carrier using the optical communication unit. Based on, the carrier automatically travels between the plurality of automatic transaction devices,
Means for collecting and replenishing cash for one of the plurality of automatic transaction apparatuses. 3. A plurality of automatic transaction devices having a cash storage and performing predetermined transaction processing with cash in the cash storage, and a carrier for collecting and replenishing cash to the plurality of automatic transaction devices. A cash management system having an operation management device connected to the plurality of automatic transaction devices via a LAN line and managing the operation state, wherein the amount of cash in the cash storage of the automatic transaction device is determined by the operation management device. A first transmitting means for transmitting, via the LAN line, an instruction to move the carrier and an instruction to collect and replenish cash based on the received information from the operation management device to the automatic transaction device; Receiving the movement instruction and the processing instruction from the first transmission means via the communication line at the automatic transaction device and transmitting the received instruction and the processing instruction from the automatic transaction device to the carrier using an optical communication unit; And transmission means, on the basis of the second transmission means to the movement instruction processing instructions and received by using the optical communication unit in said carrier, between said carrier of said plurality of automatic transaction machines and automatic traveling,
Means for collecting and replenishing cash for one of the plurality of automatic transaction apparatuses. 4. A plurality of automatic transaction devices having a cash storage and performing predetermined transaction processing with cash in the cash storage, and a carrier for collecting and replenishing cash to the plurality of automatic transaction devices. A cash processing system having an operation management device connected to the plurality of automatic transaction devices via a communication line and managing the operation state, wherein the automatic transaction device detects the amount of cash in the cash storage box. First transmitting means for transmitting the cash amount to the operation management apparatus via the communication line; receiving the cash amount from the first transmitting means; A transmission means for transmitting from the operation management apparatus to the automatic transaction apparatus via the communication line, and automatically receiving the movement instruction and the processing instruction from the second transmission means via the communication line. A third transmitting means for receiving the data from the automatic transaction apparatus to the carrier by using an optical communication unit, and receiving a transfer instruction from the third transmitting means using the optical communication unit at the carrier. Based on the processing instruction, the carrier automatically travels between the plurality of automatic transaction devices,
Means for collecting and replenishing cash for one of the plurality of automatic transaction apparatuses. 5. A plurality of automatic transaction apparatuses having a cash storage and performing predetermined transaction processing with cash in the cash storage, wherein at least one automatic transaction apparatus has an external power supply unit. A cash processing system having a transaction device, a carrier for collecting and replenishing cash for the plurality of automatic transaction devices, and an operation management device connected to the plurality of automatic transaction devices and managing this operation state, The operation management device recognizes the amount of cash in the cash storage of the automatic transaction device, and, based on this, issues a carrier movement instruction and a cash collection and replenishment processing instruction from the operation management device to the automatic management device. A first transmitting means for transmitting the transaction instruction and the processing instruction to the transaction device via the communication line via the communication line; Second transmitting means for transmitting from the pulling device to the carrier using an optical communication unit, based on the movement instruction and the processing instruction received from the second transmitting means using the optical communication unit on the carrier, Means for a carrier to automatically travel between the plurality of automatic transaction devices and to collect and replenish cash to one of the plurality of automatic transaction devices; and power supply for the automatic transaction device provided in the carrier. And a charging device that is selectively connected to the power supply unit to charge a power supply unit for automatic driving. 6. A plurality of automatic transaction apparatuses having a cash storage and performing predetermined transaction processing with cash in the cash storage, wherein at least one automatic transaction apparatus has an external power supply unit. A cash processing system having a transaction device, a carrier for collecting and replenishing cash for the plurality of automatic transaction devices, and an operation management device connected to the plurality of automatic transaction devices and managing this operation state, A first transmission unit for transmitting a charging instruction to the automatic transaction device via a communication line when the operation management device detects a charge state of the carrier and determines that charging is necessary; A second transmission unit that receives the charging instruction at the automatic transaction device from the automatic transaction device via the communication line and transmits the charge instruction from the automatic transaction device to the carrier using an optical communication unit; 2 based on the charging instruction received by the carrier using an optical communication unit from the transmission means, the carrier automatically travels between the plurality of automatic transaction devices, and docks with the automatic transaction device having the power supply unit; Means for obtaining power from the automatic transaction device and charging the same. 7. A plurality of automatic transaction devices having a cash storage and performing predetermined transaction processing with cash in the cash storage, and a carrier for collecting and replenishing cash to the plurality of automatic transaction devices. A cash management system having an operation management device connected to the plurality of automatic transaction devices and managing this operation state, wherein each of the plurality of automatic transaction devices detects each cash amount in each of the cash storages. A first transmitting means for transmitting the cash amount to the operation management device via a communication line; receiving the respective cash amounts from the first transmitting means; A second transmission unit for determining an automatic transaction device and transmitting a cash transfer instruction for instructing the transfer of cash between them from the operation management device to the automatic transaction device via a communication line; From the said A third transmission unit that receives the cash transfer instruction at the automatic transaction device via a communication line and transmits the cash transfer instruction from the automatic transaction device to the carrier using an optical communication unit; and from the third transmission unit to the carrier. Based on the cash transfer instruction received using the optical communication unit, the carrier automatically travels between the plurality of automatic transaction devices, and an automatic transaction device with too little cash and an automatic transaction device with too much cash are used. Means for performing a cash transfer process between the cash processing systems. 8. A plurality of automatic transaction apparatuses having a cash storage and performing predetermined transaction processing with cash in the cash storage, and a carrier for collecting and replenishing cash to the plurality of automatic transaction apparatuses. A cash management system having an operation management device connected to the plurality of automatic transaction devices and managing this operation state, wherein the operation management device recognizes the amount of cash in the cash storage of the automatic transaction device. A first transmission step of transmitting a carrier movement instruction and a cash collection and replenishment processing instruction from the operation management apparatus to the automatic transaction apparatus via a communication line based on the first transmission step; A second transmission step of receiving the movement instruction and the processing instruction from the automatic transaction device via the communication line and transmitting the received instruction and the processing instruction from the automatic transaction device to the carrier using an optical communication unit; Based on the movement instruction and the processing instruction received using the optical communication unit at the carrier from the second transmission step, the carrier automatically travels between the plurality of automatic transaction devices,
Collecting and replenishing cash for one of the plurality of automatic transaction apparatuses. An access method for a cash processing system, comprising: 9. A plurality of automatic transaction apparatuses having a cash storage and performing predetermined transaction processing with cash in the cash storage, wherein at least one automatic transaction apparatus has an external power supply unit. A cash processing system having a transaction device, a carrier for collecting and replenishing cash for the plurality of automatic transaction devices, and an operation management device connected to the plurality of automatic transaction devices and managing this operation state, A first transmission step of transmitting a charge instruction to the automatic transaction apparatus via a communication line when the operation management apparatus detects a charge state of the carrier and determines that charging is necessary; and from the first transmission step A second transmission step of receiving the charging instruction by the automatic transaction device via the communication line and transmitting the received instruction from the automatic transaction device to the carrier using an optical communication unit; The carrier automatically travels between the plurality of automatic transaction devices and docks with the automatic transaction device having the power supply unit, based on the charging instruction received by the carrier using an optical communication unit; A step of obtaining power from the automatic transaction apparatus and charging the same. 10. A plurality of automatic transaction devices having a cash storage and performing predetermined transaction processing with cash in the cash storage,
A cash processing system comprising a carrier for collecting and replenishing cash for the plurality of automatic transaction devices, and an operation management device connected to the plurality of automatic transaction devices and managing the operation state, wherein the plurality of automatic transaction devices A first transmitting step of detecting each cash amount in each cash storage in the transaction device and transmitting the same to the operation management device via a communication line; and receiving the respective cash amounts from the first transmitting step. Based on the, the automatic transaction device having a too small amount of cash and the automatic transaction device having a too large amount of cash are determined, and a cash transfer instruction for instructing the transfer of cash between them is transmitted from the operation management device to the automatic transaction device. A second transmission step of transmitting the cash transfer instruction from the automatic transaction apparatus to the carrier via the communication line from the second transmission step; A third transmitting step of transmitting using the communication unit, and the carrier automatically switches between the plurality of automatic transaction devices based on a cash transfer instruction received by the carrier using the optical communication unit from the third transmitting step. An access method for a cash processing system, comprising: running and performing a cash transfer process between an automatic transaction apparatus having an excessively large amount of cash and an automatic transaction apparatus having an excessively small amount of cash.