US20110262057A1 - Device and method for closing at least one thin-walled transporting container which has at least one opening and is intended for items of value - Google Patents
Device and method for closing at least one thin-walled transporting container which has at least one opening and is intended for items of value Download PDFInfo
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- US20110262057A1 US20110262057A1 US13/133,925 US200913133925A US2011262057A1 US 20110262057 A1 US20110262057 A1 US 20110262057A1 US 200913133925 A US200913133925 A US 200913133925A US 2011262057 A1 US2011262057 A1 US 2011262057A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- snap
- closing
- transport container
- elements
- closing element
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- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D33/00—Details of, or accessories for, sacks or bags
- B65D33/16—End- or aperture-closing arrangements or devices
- B65D33/1616—Elements constricting the neck of the bag
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- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07D—HANDLING OF COINS OR VALUABLE PAPERS, e.g. TESTING, SORTING BY DENOMINATIONS, COUNTING, DISPENSING, CHANGING OR DEPOSITING
- G07D11/00—Devices accepting coins; Devices accepting, dispensing, sorting or counting valuable papers
- G07D11/10—Mechanical details
- G07D11/12—Containers for valuable papers
Definitions
- the invention relates to a device for closing at least one thin-walled transport container for articles of value, said transport container having at least one opening.
- the device has at least one first closing element and a second closing element arranged at a distance to the first closing element. Further, the invention relates to a method for closing at least one thin-walled transport container for articles of value, said transport container having at least one opening.
- a device of this type is preferably used in machines for handling notes of value, which can dispense and/or accept notes of value.
- Notes of value are, for example, banknotes, vouchers or papers of value. It is known to provide notes of value, in particular banknotes, in a stacked manner in cassettes that can be supplied to a cash dispensing machine or a so-called cash recycling machine. Cash recycling machines can accept and check supplied notes of value in a first transaction and again dispense these notes of value in a second transaction.
- known cassettes for notes of value serve as transport containers which, during transport outside of the machine, are closed by suitable security devices and may only be opened by authorized people and with the aid of suitable auxiliary devices.
- the machine determines the value and/or the format of each note of value and, dependent on the value and/or format determined, feeds this note of value to a cassette suitable for this value or this format.
- a cassette When a cassette is filled with notes of value, it can be removed from the machine and then also serves as a transport container.
- transport containers for the notes of value not only cassettes closed on all sides but also thin-walled transport containers, in particular security bags made of foil material, are used. These are, for example, useful when a secured storing unit, such as a suitcase or the like, is available for the transport of these transport containers so that the relatively complex cassettes can be dispensed with.
- Thin-walled transport containers of this type should however be closed prior to their transport so that unauthorized access is not possible or unauthorized access is immediately recognized as a manipulation.
- the following three methods may be used for closing a thin-walled transport container:
- the first method is the thermal closing of the thin-walled transport container.
- the thermal closing can, in particular, be effected by welding or shrinking.
- One disadvantage of this thermal closing is that the energy demand is relatively high. Further, it is disadvantageous that, as a result thereof, a high thermal load is exerted on the machine and/or the notes of value, which reduces the lifetime of the machine and of the notes of value. Further, the notes of value contained in the thin-walled transport container may be directly damaged by the high temperatures.
- a second possible method for closing the thin-walled transport container is the gluing together of the walls of the thin-walled transport container in the area of a feeding opening.
- the glue For a variable filling volume of the transport container, the glue must be applied onto the thin-walled transport container within the machine.
- a device of this type is maintenance-prone, requires a relatively large installation space and is relatively expensive.
- a third possible method for closing the thin-walled transport container is the mechanical closing by means of a zipper and a subsequent sealing of the zipper. What is disadvantageous here is that two operations, namely the closing of the zipper and the sealing, have to be implemented. Especially the sealing can only be automated at considerable expense. A variable filling volume cannot be realized with the third method either.
- the invention preferably includes a first closing element comprises at least one first snap-in element and a second closing element comprises at least one second snap-in element that is complementary to the first snap-in element.
- the first closing element and the second closing element are arranged such that at least a part of the opening of the transport container that is opened for feeding the articles of value can be arranged between the first and the second closing element and that by means of a movement of at least one closing element with a part of the transport container arranged between the closing elements a snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element can be formed.
- the transport container is easily closed in a secure manner by means of this snap-in connection, and unauthorized access is prevented or made more difficult.
- the articles of value are notes of value, in particular banknotes. Notes of value can easily be stacked in the thin-walled transport container.
- the transport container is a receiving bag, in particular a receiving bag made of foil material or tissue material.
- Receiving bags of this type may be produced cost-efficiently and can easily be handled due to their low weight. Further, as a result thereof, the volume of the transport container can easily be adapted to the amount of articles of value to be transported.
- the snap-in elements are preferably formed as one piece with the respective closing elements. In this way, on the one hand an easy, cost-efficient production of the closing and snap-in elements is achieved and on the other hand the strength is increased as joints are not necessary.
- the snap-in connection formed by the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element cannot be released non-destructively.
- the first snap-in element and/or the second snap-in element have at least one predetermined breaking point at which the first snap-in element or, respectively, the second snap-in element breaks when the snap-in connection is released. In this way, it is prevented that one or more articles of value can be removed unnoticed from the transport container by an unauthorized person. Unauthorized access to the articles of value can thus be easily recognized and can be punished immediately.
- first closing element and the second closing element such that when forming the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element the part of the transport container is closed in which the articles of value are contained.
- a surrounding of the articles of value by the transport container as tight as possible is made possible so that, during transport, the articles of value can be transported in the transport container as motion-free as possible and/or remain in their original order. This simplifies the handling. Further, a variable filling volume of the transport container is achieved in this way.
- At least one snap-in element pierces at least one wall, preferably both walls, of the transport container at least once when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element is formed. This guarantees a secure irreversible closing of the transport container, and unauthorized access to the articles of value contained in the transport container is prevented.
- At least one snap-in element projects through at least one opening of at least one wall of the transport container, which opening is formed by at least one snap-in element when the closing elements are brought together.
- at least one snap-in element projects through an opening of a first wall of the transport container and an opening of a second wall of the transport container.
- a part of the wall of the transport container can be clamped between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element exists.
- the wall of the thin-walled transport container is not pierced, as a result whereof the thin-walled transport container can be used several times.
- the first closing element and the second closing element are connected to each other with the aid of at least one connecting element.
- the first closing element and the second closing element are arranged parallel to each other, the first closing element and the second closing element are connected to each other via two connecting elements, the connecting elements are arranged axially symmetrically with respect to an axis that is orthogonal to the closing elements and extends through the centers of the closing elements.
- the connecting elements are bendable toward the transport container. Segments of the respective connecting element that are preferably connected to the closing elements via hinges, in particular segments connected to each other and to the closing elements via film hinges, are used as connecting elements.
- the transport container can be folded inward at each side facing the connecting elements. This increases the stability of the closed transport container.
- the connecting elements the closing elements are held together so that the closing elements and the connecting elements form a one-piece frame. This frame can easily be handled. In particular, the one-piece frame can easily be inserted into a device, in particular an automated teller machine.
- a guidance of the transport container at the sides facing the connecting elements is achieved. This prevents that, when the closing elements are brought together, a part of the transport container is laterally forced out next to the closing elements that have been brought together, which would make unauthorized access to the articles of value received in the transport container easier.
- first closing element, the second closing element and the connecting elements are formed as one piece, preferably integrally. This makes an easy, cost-efficient mounting of the device for closing the thin-walled transport containers possible.
- first closing element and/or the second closing element comprise at least one pin-shaped element which pierces at least one wall of the transport container when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element is formed.
- this pin-shaped element By means of this pin-shaped element, access to the articles of value contained in the transport container is further made more difficult as by way of this pin-shaped element the width of the opening remaining between two snap-in connections or between an outer snap-in connection and a lateral boundary of the transport container is reduced.
- the invention relates to a method for closing at least one thin-walled transport container for articles of value, said transport container having at least one opening, in which method at least a part of the opening of the transport container that is opened for feeding the articles of value is arranged between a first closing element comprising at least one first snap-in element and a second closing element comprising at least one second snap-in element that is complementary to the first snap-in element. Further, at least one closing element is moved toward the other closing element, the opening of the transport container being reduced in this way. Further, a snap-in connection between the first snap-in element of the first closing element and the second snap-in element of the second closing element is formed.
- the method specified by the independent method claim can be developed in the same manner as the device according to the invention.
- the method can be developed with the features specified in the dependent device claims or with corresponding method features.
- FIG. 1 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of a device for closing thin-walled transport containers together with such a thin-walled transport container in an opened state according to a first embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 2 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the device and of the thin-walled transport container according to FIG. 1 in a closed state.
- FIG. 3 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the device and of the transport container according to FIG. 1 in a second closed state.
- FIG. 4 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of a device for closing thin-walled transport containers and a thin-walled transport container in an opened state according to a second embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 5 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the device and of the transport container according to FIG. 4 in a closed state.
- FIG. 6 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of a device for closing thin-walled transport containers in an opened state according to a third embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 7 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the device according to FIG. 6 in a closed state.
- FIG. 8 shows a perspective schematic illustration of a device for closing transport containers according to FIGS. 1 to 7 in an opened state and an additional frame.
- FIG. 9 shows a perspective schematic illustration of a device for closing a transport container according to a further embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 1 a schematic illustration of a cross-section of a device 10 for closing thin-walled transport containers 12 and a thin-walled transport container 12 is shown in an opened state.
- the device 10 comprises a first closing element 14 and a second closing element 16 .
- the first closing element 14 in turn comprises three first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c.
- the snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c are preferably identical and the distance between two adjacent snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c is preferably the same each time.
- the second closing element 16 comprises altogether three second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c.
- the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c are formed and arranged complementarily to the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c.
- the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c of the second closing element 16 are preferably identical.
- the distance between two adjacent snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c is likewise preferably the same each time.
- the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c are formed as one piece with the first closing element 14
- the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c are formed as one piece with the second closing element 16
- the first closing element 14 and the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c or, respectively, the second closing element 16 and the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c may also be separate component parts.
- the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c are firmly connected to the first closing element 14 via a suitable connection each
- each of the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c is firmly connected to the second closing element 16 with the aid of a suitable connection.
- the snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c or, respectively, 20 a to 20 c are arranged at the first closing element 14 or, respectively, at the second closing element 16 such that by a movement of the first closing element 14 and/or of the second closing element 16 a snap-in connection between the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c and the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c can be formed.
- This movement is preferably a single-axis movement. Such a single-axis movement can easily be automated.
- the axis of the single-axis movement is orthogonal with respect to the first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16 .
- the single-axis movement is indicated by the arrows A and B in FIG. 1 .
- the first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16 are arranged to each other at a predetermined distance.
- the first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16 are preferably arranged parallel to each other.
- the thin-walled transport container 12 is at least partially arranged between the first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16 .
- the thin-walled transport container 12 has an opening for feeding the articles of value, which opening is opened in the opened state illustrated in FIG. 1 .
- the distance between the first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16 is at least so large that the opening of the transport container 12 may be opened at least so far that the largest article of value to be supplied can be supplied through the opened opening and into a receiving area of the transport container for receiving the articles of value.
- the articles of value are supplied to the transport container 12 in that they are transported into the transport container 12 in the direction of an axis that is orthogonal with respect to the sectional plane shown in FIG. 1 .
- the articles of value to be transported are preferably notes of values, in particular banknotes.
- the banknotes are conveyed into the transport container 12 with the aid of a banknote transport mechanism, in particular a vane wheel.
- a banknote transport mechanism in particular a vane wheel.
- Such transport mechanisms are known from the non-pre-published patent applications DE 10 2008 018 935.9 and DE 10 2008 018 961.8.
- the structure and the function of the banknote transport mechanisms described therein, in particular the structure and the function of the feeding and separating modules described therein, are herewith incorporated by reference into the present description.
- the thin-walled transport container 12 is preferably a bag 12 , in particular a bag of foil material, such as a plastic bag. Such bags 12 can be produced cost-efficiently, are easy to handle and hard-wearing. Alternatively or additionally, the bag 12 may also comprise tissue material.
- the second closing element 16 comprises two pin-shaped elements 22 a, 22 b. These pin-shaped elements will still be explained in more detail in the following in connection with FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 2 a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the device 10 and of the transport container 12 according to FIG. 1 is shown in a closed state. Elements having the same structure or the same function are identified with the same reference signs.
- the first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16 are moved in the direction of the arrows A and B until the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c and the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c engage with each other and the transport container 12 is closed by the snap-in connection formed by the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c and the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c.
- This closed state is shown in FIG. 2 .
- the first snap-in element 18 a snaps into the second snap-in element 20 a
- the first snap-in element 18 b snaps into the second snap-in element 20 b
- the first snap-in element 18 c snaps into the second snap-in element 20 c.
- the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c each have the form of a hook that is symmetrical with respect to its longitudinal axis, in the style of a double barbed hook.
- Each first snap-in element 18 a to 18 c comprises a connecting segment 23 and two flank segments 19 a, 19 b.
- the longitudinal axis of the connecting segment 23 is orthogonal with respect to the first closing element 14 and is firmly connected to this closing element 14 with a first end.
- flank segments 19 a, 19 b is firmly connected with a first end to the second end of the connecting segment 23 .
- the flank segments 19 a, 19 b are arranged such that they are arranged axially symmetrically or mirror-symmetrically with respect to the connecting segment 23 .
- the flank segments 19 a, 19 b, the connecting segment 23 and the closing element 14 are preferably integrally formed.
- Each second snap-in element 20 a to 20 c comprises two engagement elements 21 a, 21 b into which one flank segment 19 a, 19 b each engages or snaps into place in the closed state.
- Each engagement element 21 a, 21 b is firmly connected to the second closing element 16 at a first end.
- the second end of each engagement element 21 a, 21 b opposite to the first end is bent in the direction of the respective other engagement element 21 a, 21 b.
- the two engagement elements 21 a, 21 b preferably do not contact each other so that there is an opening 24 between them.
- the width of the opening 24 is smaller than the distance between the second ends of the two flank segments 19 a, 19 b of the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c that lie opposite to the first ends.
- the closing elements 14 , 16 are moved toward each other, and in this way, the opening of the transport container 12 is reduced until the opening of the transport container 12 is at least almost completely closed.
- the wall of the transport container 12 facing the second closing element 16 rests on the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c, and the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c press against the wall of the transport container 12 opposite to the wall facing the second closing element 16 .
- the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c pierce the two walls of the transport container 12 when the closing elements 14 , 16 are further brought together.
- the flank segments 19 a, 19 b of the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c are pressed together by the engagement elements 21 a, 21 b of the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c and/or the engagement elements 21 a, 21 b are pushed apart until the distance between the second ends of the flank segments 19 a, 19 b is as large as the opening 24 between the engagement elements 21 a, 21 b so that the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c can be inserted into the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c.
- flank segments 19 a, 19 b of the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c have been completely moved through the opening 24 between the engagement elements 21 a, 21 b of the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c
- the flank segments 19 a, 19 b and/or the engagement elements 21 a, 21 b spring back into their original position due to their elasticity so that the distance between the second ends of the flank segments 19 a, 19 b is again larger than the opening 24 between the engagement elements 21 a, 21 b.
- the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c similar to a barbed hook, cannot be removed again or pulled out of the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c without the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c and/or the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c being destroyed.
- the two closing elements 14 , 16 are preferably moved toward each other by a motor.
- a motor In particular, an electric motor is used for this.
- the snap-in connection formed by the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c and the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c is thus also referred to as irreversible.
- irreversible connection of the snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c it is achieved that it can easily be recognized whether the snap-in connection was opened by an unauthorized person. In this way, manipulation attempts and/or accesses to the articles of value received in the transport container 12 can be prevented or such manipulation attempts can be punished immediately.
- the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c and/or the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c can each have one or more predetermined breaking points at which the snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c will break when someone tries to open the snap-in connection formed by the snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c.
- the pin-shaped elements 22 a, 22 b likewise pierce the walls of the transport container 12 .
- the respective distance between the respective outermost snap-in element 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c and the ends 26 , 28 of the closed transport container 12 is reduced.
- access to the articles of value received in the transport container 12 for example, with the aid of a pair of tweezers, is additionally made more difficult.
- FIG. 3 a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the device 10 according to FIG. 1 and of a transport container 12 in a further closed state is shown.
- the transport container 12 is made of a material that is so elastic that, when forming the snap-in connection between the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c and the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c, this material is not pierced by the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c but is clamped between the second ends of the flank segments 19 a, 19 b of the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c and the second ends of the engagement elements 21 a, 21 b of the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c.
- the transport container 12 is clamped such that it cannot be moved out from between the closing elements 14 , 16 .
- the transport container 12 can be used several times as the transport container 12 is not damaged by the snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c when the snap-in connection is formed.
- FIG. 4 a schematic illustration of a cross-section of a further embodiment of a device for closing thin-walled transport containers 12 and of a thin-walled transport container 12 in an opened state are shown. Elements which are identical to elements shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 are identified with the same reference signs as in FIGS. 1 to 3 .
- the first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16 are connected to each other via two connecting elements 32 a, 32 b.
- the longitudinal axes of the first closing element 14 and of the second closing element 16 are arranged parallel to each other.
- the first connecting element 32 a and the second connecting element 32 b are arranged axially symmetrically with respect to an axis that is orthogonal to the longitudinal axes of the first closing element 14 and of the second closing element 16 and that extends through the centers of the first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16 .
- the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b are designed in the form of film hinges. Alternatively, also other connecting elements may be used.
- the closing elements 14 , 16 and the connecting elements 32 a and 32 b together form a closed frame.
- the closing elements 14 , 16 and the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b are formed as one piece.
- the closing elements 14 , 16 and the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b are preferably made of plastic material.
- they are made of polyethylene (PE) or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS).
- the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b have a tapering 34 a to 34 d at each transition to the closing elements 14 , 16 . Further, each of the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b has a further tapering 36 a, 36 b at its center. By the taperings 34 a to 34 d, 36 a, 36 b, one film hinge each is formed. In the opened state shown in FIG. 4 , the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b are slightly bent toward the transport container 12 so that the bending direction is thus predetermined when the closing elements 14 , 16 are pressed together.
- the closing elements 14 , 16 are moved toward each other.
- the closing elements 32 a, 32 b are bent further toward the transport container 12 until they are arranged almost parallel to the closing elements 14 , 16 .
- the transport container 12 is folded inward with the aid of the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b at the sides facing the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b.
- access to the articles of value received in the transport container 12 is made more difficult in the case of a manipulation attempt.
- a guidance of the transport container 12 at the sides facing the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b is achieved.
- each connecting element 32 a, 32 b has two holes 38 a to 38 d.
- the holes 38 a to 38 d are arranged such that, in the closed state, the pin-shaped elements 22 a, 22 b project through these holes 38 a to 38 d.
- FIG. 5 Such a closed state of the device 30 according to FIG. 4 is shown in FIG. 5 .
- the forming of the snap-in connection and the closing of the transport container 12 by the snap-in connection are implemented in the same manner as already described in connection with FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 6 a schematic illustration of a cross-section of a device 40 for closing thin-walled transport containers according to a further embodiment of the invention is shown in the opened state. Elements which correspond to the elements from FIGS. 1 to 5 are identified with the same reference signs as the corresponding elements in FIGS. 1 to 5 . In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6 , the snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c are not illustrated. The thin-walled transport container 12 is likewise not illustrated.
- the first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16 each have a thickening 42 , 44 at their center that is directed toward the respective other closing element 14 , 16 .
- the taperings 34 a to 34 d are formed on the side of the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b facing the transport container 12 .
- the taperings 36 a, 36 b are formed on the side of the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b facing away from the transport container 12 .
- the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b are not or only slightly bent.
- FIG. 7 a schematic cross-section of the device 40 according to FIG. 6 is shown in a closed state.
- the transport container 12 is additionally clamped in the closed state so that at least the space for possible manipulations in the area of the opening of the transport container 12 is reduced.
- FIG. 8 a perspective schematic illustration of a device 50 for closing thin-walled transport containers and of a further frame 52 is shown. Elements which correspond to the elements from FIGS. 1 to 7 are identified in FIG. 8 with the same reference signs as in FIGS. 1 to 7 . For simplification of the illustration, the snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c of the device 50 are not illustrated in FIG. 8 .
- a frame 52 is arranged upstream of the device 50 .
- the transport container 12 not illustrated in FIG. 8 is placed around the frame 52 and is preferably mounted to the frame 52 .
- the transport container 12 forms a stock at the perimeter of the frame 52 .
- the transport container 12 is wound up or gathered. Therefore, the frame 52 is also referred to as bag storage.
- the first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16 of the device 50 each have two profile rails 54 a to 54 d which are mounted to the closing element 14 , 16 such that they face toward the respective other closing element 14 , 16 .
- the rails 54 a to 54 d serve to keep the transport container 12 at a distance to the snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c when the transport container 12 is moved through the device 50 during filling with the articles of value. Further, the rails increase the stability of the device 50 .
- the closing elements 14 , 16 and the associated rails 54 a to 54 d are each formed as one piece as a U-profile.
- the rails 54 a to 54 d or, respectively, profiles are arranged and/or formed such that they at least partially overlap or partially engage with each other in the closed state of the device 50 .
- the transport container 12 is wound up or gathered at the frame 52 such that it forms a stock and is wound off step-by-step by the filling with the articles of value.
- the length of the transport container 12 is increased and the stock at the frame 52 is reduced.
- the volume of the transport container 12 can be adapted to the amount of articles of value to be transported.
- the device 50 will only close the part of the transport container 12 that is actually filled with the articles of value. This simplifies the handling of the transport container 12 .
- the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c can also be formed as rails extending in the longitudinal direction of the second closing element 16 in the form of a C-profile.
- the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c are turned by 90° so that these can snap into place in L-profiles.
- the stability of the device is increased.
- FIG. 9 a perspective schematic illustration of a device 60 for closing a transport container 12 according to a further embodiment of the invention is shown.
- the first closing element 14 of the device 60 according to FIG. 9 comprises four short rails 62 a to 62 d instead of one closed rail 54 a.
- the rails 62 a to 62 d are arranged such that the gaps between each two of these rails 62 a to 62 d are located where the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c are located.
- the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b comprise at their ends at the side facing the transport container 12 one guiding element 64 a to 64 d each.
- the guiding elements 64 a to 64 d are rounded-off at the side facing the transport container 12 .
- the guiding elements 64 a to 64 d serve to keep the transport container 12 at a distance to the edges of the rails 54 b to 54 d and thus to prevent damage to the transport container 12 when it is guided past. Further, by way of the guiding elements 64 a to 64 d it is prevented that the transport container 12 is jammed between the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b and the rails 54 b, 54 d when the transport container 12 is guided past during its filling, and thus that it might be damaged.
- the first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16 each have two holes 66 a to 66 d.
- the holes 66 a to 66 d are arranged such that the guiding elements 64 a to 64 d of the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b project through these holes 66 a to 66 d when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c and the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c is formed.
- the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b each have a hole at the transitions to the closing elements 14 , 16 .
- hook-shaped engagement elements of the holding arrangement engage with these holes, said engagement elements being biased via a spring arrangement such that the closing elements 14 , 16 are pushed apart so that the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b are not or only slightly bent.
- the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b may have L-shaped recesses instead of the holes, in which recesses the hook-shaped engagement elements are received.
- the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b may comprise pin-shaped elements at the side facing away from the transport container instead of the holes.
- the closing elements 14 , 16 are moved apart with the aid of engagement elements that are complementary to the pin-shaped elements.
- a hole, an L-shaped recess and/or pin-shaped elements can be provided in or at the closing elements 14 , 16 .
- At least one of the closing elements 14 , 16 and/or at least one connecting element 32 a, 32 b comprises at least one safety feature.
- This safety feature preferably serves to authenticate the device 60 and/or to clearly identify the device 60 .
- the safety feature is, for example, a writing field on which, in particular, a double signature of two different people may be applied.
- at least one RFID chip, at least one barcode and/or at least one serial number may be provided which are applied to the device 60 or are integrated therein.
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Abstract
The invention relates to a device (10, 30, 40, 50, 60) for closing at least one thin-walled transport container (12) for articles of value, said transport container having at least one opening. The device (10, 30, 40, 50) has at least one first closing element (14) and a second closing element (16) arranged at a distance to the first closing element (14). The first closing element (14) comprises at least one first snap-in element (18 a to 18 c) and the second closing element (16) comprises at least one second snap-in element (20 a to 20 c) that is complementary to the first snap-in element (18 a to 18 c). The first closing element (14) and the second closing element (16) are arranged such that at least a part of the opening of the transport container (12) opened for feeding the articles of value can be arranged between the first closing element (14) and the second closing element (16) and that by a movement of at least one closing element (14, 16) with a part of the transport container (12) arranged between the closing elements (14, 16) a snap-in connection between the first snap-in element (18 a to 18 c) and the second snap-in element (20 a to 20 c) can be formed. Further, the invention relates to a method for closing at least one thin-walled transport container (12).
Description
- This application is a U.S. National Stage Application of International Application No. PCT/EP2009/066639, filed Dec. 8, 2009, and published in the German language as WO/2010/066739 on Jun. 17, 2010. This application claims the benefit and priority of German Application No. 10 2008 061 529.3, filed Dec. 10, 2008. The entire disclosures of the above applications are incorporated herein by reference.
- This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.
- 1. Technical field
- The invention relates to a device for closing at least one thin-walled transport container for articles of value, said transport container having at least one opening. The device has at least one first closing element and a second closing element arranged at a distance to the first closing element. Further, the invention relates to a method for closing at least one thin-walled transport container for articles of value, said transport container having at least one opening.
- 2. Discussion
- A device of this type is preferably used in machines for handling notes of value, which can dispense and/or accept notes of value. Notes of value are, for example, banknotes, vouchers or papers of value. It is known to provide notes of value, in particular banknotes, in a stacked manner in cassettes that can be supplied to a cash dispensing machine or a so-called cash recycling machine. Cash recycling machines can accept and check supplied notes of value in a first transaction and again dispense these notes of value in a second transaction. In this connection, known cassettes for notes of value serve as transport containers which, during transport outside of the machine, are closed by suitable security devices and may only be opened by authorized people and with the aid of suitable auxiliary devices. If it is possible to feed notes of value to the machine, the machine determines the value and/or the format of each note of value and, dependent on the value and/or format determined, feeds this note of value to a cassette suitable for this value or this format. When a cassette is filled with notes of value, it can be removed from the machine and then also serves as a transport container.
- As transport containers for the notes of value not only cassettes closed on all sides but also thin-walled transport containers, in particular security bags made of foil material, are used. These are, for example, useful when a secured storing unit, such as a suitcase or the like, is available for the transport of these transport containers so that the relatively complex cassettes can be dispensed with.
- Thin-walled transport containers of this type should however be closed prior to their transport so that unauthorized access is not possible or unauthorized access is immediately recognized as a manipulation. The following three methods may be used for closing a thin-walled transport container:
- The first method is the thermal closing of the thin-walled transport container. The thermal closing can, in particular, be effected by welding or shrinking. One disadvantage of this thermal closing is that the energy demand is relatively high. Further, it is disadvantageous that, as a result thereof, a high thermal load is exerted on the machine and/or the notes of value, which reduces the lifetime of the machine and of the notes of value. Further, the notes of value contained in the thin-walled transport container may be directly damaged by the high temperatures.
- A second possible method for closing the thin-walled transport container is the gluing together of the walls of the thin-walled transport container in the area of a feeding opening. For a variable filling volume of the transport container, the glue must be applied onto the thin-walled transport container within the machine. A device of this type is maintenance-prone, requires a relatively large installation space and is relatively expensive.
- A third possible method for closing the thin-walled transport container is the mechanical closing by means of a zipper and a subsequent sealing of the zipper. What is disadvantageous here is that two operations, namely the closing of the zipper and the sealing, have to be implemented. Especially the sealing can only be automated at considerable expense. A variable filling volume cannot be realized with the third method either.
- It is an aspect of the invention to specify a device and a method for closing at least one thin-walled transport container for articles of value, said transport container having at least one opening, by means of which device or method the thin-walled transport container can easily be closed in a secure manner.
- The invention preferably includes a first closing element comprises at least one first snap-in element and a second closing element comprises at least one second snap-in element that is complementary to the first snap-in element. The first closing element and the second closing element are arranged such that at least a part of the opening of the transport container that is opened for feeding the articles of value can be arranged between the first and the second closing element and that by means of a movement of at least one closing element with a part of the transport container arranged between the closing elements a snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element can be formed. The transport container is easily closed in a secure manner by means of this snap-in connection, and unauthorized access is prevented or made more difficult.
- It is advantageous when by means of a single-axis movement of at least one closing element with a part of the transport container arranged between the closing elements the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element can be formed. In this way, the closing of the transport container can easily be automated. Such a single-axis movement can, in particular, be the pressing together of the first and the second snap-in element for forming the snap-in connection.
- Advantageously, the articles of value are notes of value, in particular banknotes. Notes of value can easily be stacked in the thin-walled transport container.
- Further, it is advantageous when the transport container is a receiving bag, in particular a receiving bag made of foil material or tissue material. Receiving bags of this type may be produced cost-efficiently and can easily be handled due to their low weight. Further, as a result thereof, the volume of the transport container can easily be adapted to the amount of articles of value to be transported.
- The snap-in elements are preferably formed as one piece with the respective closing elements. In this way, on the one hand an easy, cost-efficient production of the closing and snap-in elements is achieved and on the other hand the strength is increased as joints are not necessary.
- Further, it is advantageous when the snap-in connection formed by the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element cannot be released non-destructively. In particular, it is advantageous when the first snap-in element and/or the second snap-in element have at least one predetermined breaking point at which the first snap-in element or, respectively, the second snap-in element breaks when the snap-in connection is released. In this way, it is prevented that one or more articles of value can be removed unnoticed from the transport container by an unauthorized person. Unauthorized access to the articles of value can thus be easily recognized and can be punished immediately.
- In addition, it is advantageous to arrange the first closing element and the second closing element such that when forming the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element the part of the transport container is closed in which the articles of value are contained. In this way, a surrounding of the articles of value by the transport container as tight as possible is made possible so that, during transport, the articles of value can be transported in the transport container as motion-free as possible and/or remain in their original order. This simplifies the handling. Further, a variable filling volume of the transport container is achieved in this way.
- In addition, it is advantageous when at least one snap-in element pierces at least one wall, preferably both walls, of the transport container at least once when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element is formed. This guarantees a secure irreversible closing of the transport container, and unauthorized access to the articles of value contained in the transport container is prevented.
- It is particularly advantageous that, when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element exists, at least one snap-in element projects through at least one opening of at least one wall of the transport container, which opening is formed by at least one snap-in element when the closing elements are brought together. Preferably, at least one snap-in element projects through an opening of a first wall of the transport container and an opening of a second wall of the transport container.
- Alternatively, a part of the wall of the transport container can be clamped between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element exists. In this way, the wall of the thin-walled transport container is not pierced, as a result whereof the thin-walled transport container can be used several times.
- In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first closing element and the second closing element are connected to each other with the aid of at least one connecting element. Advantageously, the first closing element and the second closing element are arranged parallel to each other, the first closing element and the second closing element are connected to each other via two connecting elements, the connecting elements are arranged axially symmetrically with respect to an axis that is orthogonal to the closing elements and extends through the centers of the closing elements. Preferably, the connecting elements are bendable toward the transport container. Segments of the respective connecting element that are preferably connected to the closing elements via hinges, in particular segments connected to each other and to the closing elements via film hinges, are used as connecting elements. In this way, a guidance of the transport container and a guidance of the closing elements during closing of the transport container are achieved. Further, with the aid of the connecting elements, the transport container can be folded inward at each side facing the connecting elements. This increases the stability of the closed transport container. By way of the connecting elements, the closing elements are held together so that the closing elements and the connecting elements form a one-piece frame. This frame can easily be handled. In particular, the one-piece frame can easily be inserted into a device, in particular an automated teller machine. Further, by way of the connecting elements a guidance of the transport container at the sides facing the connecting elements is achieved. This prevents that, when the closing elements are brought together, a part of the transport container is laterally forced out next to the closing elements that have been brought together, which would make unauthorized access to the articles of value received in the transport container easier.
- It is particularly advantageous when the first closing element, the second closing element and the connecting elements are formed as one piece, preferably integrally. This makes an easy, cost-efficient mounting of the device for closing the thin-walled transport containers possible.
- In addition it is advantageous when the first closing element and/or the second closing element comprise at least one pin-shaped element which pierces at least one wall of the transport container when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element is formed. By means of this pin-shaped element, access to the articles of value contained in the transport container is further made more difficult as by way of this pin-shaped element the width of the opening remaining between two snap-in connections or between an outer snap-in connection and a lateral boundary of the transport container is reduced.
- Further, the invention relates to a method for closing at least one thin-walled transport container for articles of value, said transport container having at least one opening, in which method at least a part of the opening of the transport container that is opened for feeding the articles of value is arranged between a first closing element comprising at least one first snap-in element and a second closing element comprising at least one second snap-in element that is complementary to the first snap-in element. Further, at least one closing element is moved toward the other closing element, the opening of the transport container being reduced in this way. Further, a snap-in connection between the first snap-in element of the first closing element and the second snap-in element of the second closing element is formed.
- The method specified by the independent method claim can be developed in the same manner as the device according to the invention. In particular, the method can be developed with the features specified in the dependent device claims or with corresponding method features.
- Further features and advantages of the invention result from the following description which in connection with the enclosed Figures explains the invention in more detail with reference to embodiments.
- The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
-
FIG. 1 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of a device for closing thin-walled transport containers together with such a thin-walled transport container in an opened state according to a first embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 2 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the device and of the thin-walled transport container according toFIG. 1 in a closed state. -
FIG. 3 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the device and of the transport container according toFIG. 1 in a second closed state. -
FIG. 4 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of a device for closing thin-walled transport containers and a thin-walled transport container in an opened state according to a second embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 5 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the device and of the transport container according toFIG. 4 in a closed state. -
FIG. 6 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of a device for closing thin-walled transport containers in an opened state according to a third embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 7 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the device according toFIG. 6 in a closed state. -
FIG. 8 shows a perspective schematic illustration of a device for closing transport containers according toFIGS. 1 to 7 in an opened state and an additional frame. -
FIG. 9 shows a perspective schematic illustration of a device for closing a transport container according to a further embodiment of the invention. - Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.
- Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.
- In
FIG. 1 , a schematic illustration of a cross-section of adevice 10 for closing thin-walled transport containers 12 and a thin-walled transport container 12 is shown in an opened state. Thedevice 10 comprises afirst closing element 14 and asecond closing element 16. Thefirst closing element 14 in turn comprises three first snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c. The snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c are preferably identical and the distance between two adjacent snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c is preferably the same each time. Likewise, thesecond closing element 16 comprises altogether three second snap-inelements 20 a to 20 c. The second snap-inelements 20 a to 20 c are formed and arranged complementarily to the first snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c. The second snap-inelements 20 a to 20 c of thesecond closing element 16 are preferably identical. The distance between two adjacent snap-inelements 20 a to 20 c is likewise preferably the same each time. - In the embodiment according to
FIG. 1 , the first snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c are formed as one piece with thefirst closing element 14, and the second snap-inelements 20 a to 20 c are formed as one piece with thesecond closing element 16. Alternatively, thefirst closing element 14 and the first snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c or, respectively, thesecond closing element 16 and the second snap-inelements 20 a to 20 c may also be separate component parts. Then, the first snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c are firmly connected to thefirst closing element 14 via a suitable connection each, and each of the second snap-inelements 20 a to 20 c is firmly connected to thesecond closing element 16 with the aid of a suitable connection. - The snap-in
elements 18 a to 18 c or, respectively, 20 a to 20 c are arranged at thefirst closing element 14 or, respectively, at thesecond closing element 16 such that by a movement of thefirst closing element 14 and/or of the second closing element 16 a snap-in connection between the first snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c and the second snap-inelements 20 a to 20 c can be formed. This movement is preferably a single-axis movement. Such a single-axis movement can easily be automated. The axis of the single-axis movement is orthogonal with respect to thefirst closing element 14 and thesecond closing element 16. The single-axis movement is indicated by the arrows A and B inFIG. 1 . - In the opened state of the
device 10 illustrated inFIG. 1 , thefirst closing element 14 and thesecond closing element 16 are arranged to each other at a predetermined distance. Thefirst closing element 14 and thesecond closing element 16 are preferably arranged parallel to each other. The thin-walled transport container 12 is at least partially arranged between thefirst closing element 14 and thesecond closing element 16. The thin-walled transport container 12 has an opening for feeding the articles of value, which opening is opened in the opened state illustrated inFIG. 1 . The distance between thefirst closing element 14 and thesecond closing element 16 is at least so large that the opening of thetransport container 12 may be opened at least so far that the largest article of value to be supplied can be supplied through the opened opening and into a receiving area of the transport container for receiving the articles of value. The articles of value are supplied to thetransport container 12 in that they are transported into thetransport container 12 in the direction of an axis that is orthogonal with respect to the sectional plane shown inFIG. 1 . - The articles of value to be transported are preferably notes of values, in particular banknotes. The banknotes are conveyed into the
transport container 12 with the aid of a banknote transport mechanism, in particular a vane wheel. Such transport mechanisms are known from the non-pre-publishedpatent applications DE 10 2008 018 935.9 andDE 10 2008 018 961.8. The structure and the function of the banknote transport mechanisms described therein, in particular the structure and the function of the feeding and separating modules described therein, are herewith incorporated by reference into the present description. - The thin-
walled transport container 12 is preferably abag 12, in particular a bag of foil material, such as a plastic bag.Such bags 12 can be produced cost-efficiently, are easy to handle and hard-wearing. Alternatively or additionally, thebag 12 may also comprise tissue material. - Further, the
second closing element 16 comprises two pin-shapedelements FIG. 2 . - In
FIG. 2 , a schematic illustration of a cross-section of thedevice 10 and of thetransport container 12 according toFIG. 1 is shown in a closed state. Elements having the same structure or the same function are identified with the same reference signs. - When all articles of value to be transported have been inserted into the
transport container 12 and/or when thetransport container 12 is filled to a maximum, then thefirst closing element 14 and thesecond closing element 16 are moved in the direction of the arrows A and B until the first snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c and the second snap-inelements 20 a to 20 c engage with each other and thetransport container 12 is closed by the snap-in connection formed by the first snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c and the second snap-inelements 20 a to 20 c. This closed state is shown inFIG. 2 . In the closed state, the first snap-inelement 18 a snaps into the second snap-inelement 20 a, the first snap-inelement 18 b snaps into the second snap-inelement 20 b and the first snap-inelement 18 c snaps into the second snap-inelement 20 c. In the present embodiment, the first snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c each have the form of a hook that is symmetrical with respect to its longitudinal axis, in the style of a double barbed hook. Each first snap-inelement 18 a to 18 c comprises a connectingsegment 23 and twoflank segments segment 23 is orthogonal with respect to thefirst closing element 14 and is firmly connected to thisclosing element 14 with a first end. Each of theflank segments segment 23. Theflank segments segment 23. Theflank segments segment 23 and theclosing element 14 are preferably integrally formed. - Each second snap-in
element 20 a to 20 c comprises twoengagement elements flank segment engagement element second closing element 16 at a first end. The second end of eachengagement element other engagement element engagement elements opening 24 between them. The width of theopening 24 is smaller than the distance between the second ends of the twoflank segments elements 18 a to 18 c that lie opposite to the first ends. - When forming the snap-in connection between the first snap-in
elements 18 a to 18 c and the second snap-inelements 20 a to 20 c, theclosing elements transport container 12 is reduced until the opening of thetransport container 12 is at least almost completely closed. In this case, the wall of thetransport container 12 facing thesecond closing element 16 rests on the second snap-inelements 20 a to 20 c, and the first snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c press against the wall of thetransport container 12 opposite to the wall facing thesecond closing element 16. By way of the forces acting orthogonally to thefirst closing element 14 and thesecond closing element 16, the first snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c pierce the two walls of thetransport container 12 when theclosing elements flank segments elements 18 a to 18 c are pressed together by theengagement elements elements 20 a to 20 c and/or theengagement elements flank segments opening 24 between theengagement elements elements 18 a to 18 c can be inserted into the second snap-inelements 20 a to 20 c. As soon as theflank segments elements 18 a to 18 c have been completely moved through theopening 24 between theengagement elements elements 20 a to 20 c, theflank segments engagement elements flank segments opening 24 between theengagement elements elements 18 a to 18 c, similar to a barbed hook, cannot be removed again or pulled out of the second snap-inelements 20 a to 20 c without the first snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c and/or the second snap-inelements 20 a to 20 c being destroyed. - When forming the snap-in connection, the two closing
elements - The snap-in connection formed by the first snap-in
elements 18 a to 18 c and the second snap-inelements 20 a to 20 c is thus also referred to as irreversible. By way of the irreversible connection of the snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c it is achieved that it can easily be recognized whether the snap-in connection was opened by an unauthorized person. In this way, manipulation attempts and/or accesses to the articles of value received in thetransport container 12 can be prevented or such manipulation attempts can be punished immediately. The first snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c and/or the second snap-inelements 20 a to 20 c can each have one or more predetermined breaking points at which the snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c will break when someone tries to open the snap-in connection formed by the snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c. - In the closed state shown in
FIG. 2 , the pin-shapedelements transport container 12. In this way, the respective distance between the respective outermost snap-inelement 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c and theends closed transport container 12 is reduced. As a result thereof, access to the articles of value received in thetransport container 12, for example, with the aid of a pair of tweezers, is additionally made more difficult. - In
FIG. 3 , a schematic illustration of a cross-section of thedevice 10 according toFIG. 1 and of atransport container 12 in a further closed state is shown. Compared to the embodiment shown inFIG. 2 , in the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 3 thetransport container 12 is made of a material that is so elastic that, when forming the snap-in connection between the first snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c and the second snap-inelements 20 a to 20 c, this material is not pierced by the first snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c but is clamped between the second ends of theflank segments elements 18 a to 18 c and the second ends of theengagement elements elements 20 a to 20 c. Here, thetransport container 12 is clamped such that it cannot be moved out from between the closingelements FIG. 3 , thetransport container 12 can be used several times as thetransport container 12 is not damaged by the snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c when the snap-in connection is formed. - In
FIG. 4 , a schematic illustration of a cross-section of a further embodiment of a device for closing thin-walled transport containers 12 and of a thin-walled transport container 12 in an opened state are shown. Elements which are identical to elements shown inFIGS. 1 to 3 are identified with the same reference signs as inFIGS. 1 to 3 . - The
first closing element 14 and thesecond closing element 16 are connected to each other via two connectingelements first closing element 14 and of thesecond closing element 16 are arranged parallel to each other. The first connectingelement 32 a and the second connectingelement 32 b are arranged axially symmetrically with respect to an axis that is orthogonal to the longitudinal axes of thefirst closing element 14 and of thesecond closing element 16 and that extends through the centers of thefirst closing element 14 and thesecond closing element 16. The connectingelements - The
closing elements elements closing elements elements - The
closing elements elements - The connecting
elements closing elements elements taperings 34 a to 34 d, 36 a, 36 b, one film hinge each is formed. In the opened state shown inFIG. 4 , the connectingelements transport container 12 so that the bending direction is thus predetermined when theclosing elements - When the
device 30 is closed, theclosing elements closing elements transport container 12 until they are arranged almost parallel to theclosing elements transport container 12 is folded inward with the aid of the connectingelements elements transport container 12 is made more difficult in the case of a manipulation attempt. Further, by means of the connectingelements transport container 12 at the sides facing the connectingelements closing elements transport container 12 is laterally forced out next to theclosing elements transport container 12 easier. - Further, each connecting
element holes 38 a to 38 d. Theholes 38 a to 38 d are arranged such that, in the closed state, the pin-shapedelements holes 38 a to 38 d. - Such a closed state of the
device 30 according toFIG. 4 is shown inFIG. 5 . The forming of the snap-in connection and the closing of thetransport container 12 by the snap-in connection are implemented in the same manner as already described in connection withFIG. 2 . - In
FIG. 6 , a schematic illustration of a cross-section of adevice 40 for closing thin-walled transport containers according to a further embodiment of the invention is shown in the opened state. Elements which correspond to the elements fromFIGS. 1 to 5 are identified with the same reference signs as the corresponding elements inFIGS. 1 to 5 . In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 6 , the snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c are not illustrated. The thin-walled transport container 12 is likewise not illustrated. - The
first closing element 14 and thesecond closing element 16 each have a thickening 42, 44 at their center that is directed toward the respectiveother closing element taperings 34 a to 34 d are formed on the side of the connectingelements transport container 12. Thetaperings elements transport container 12. The connectingelements - In
FIG. 7 , a schematic cross-section of thedevice 40 according toFIG. 6 is shown in a closed state. By means of thethickenings closing elements transport container 12 is additionally clamped in the closed state so that at least the space for possible manipulations in the area of the opening of thetransport container 12 is reduced. - In
FIG. 8 , a perspective schematic illustration of adevice 50 for closing thin-walled transport containers and of afurther frame 52 is shown. Elements which correspond to the elements fromFIGS. 1 to 7 are identified inFIG. 8 with the same reference signs as inFIGS. 1 to 7 . For simplification of the illustration, the snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c of thedevice 50 are not illustrated inFIG. 8 . - As viewed in transport direction P1 of the articles of value, a
frame 52 is arranged upstream of thedevice 50. Thetransport container 12 not illustrated inFIG. 8 is placed around theframe 52 and is preferably mounted to theframe 52. Thetransport container 12 forms a stock at the perimeter of theframe 52. For forming a stock at the outer perimeter of theframe 52, thetransport container 12 is wound up or gathered. Therefore, theframe 52 is also referred to as bag storage. - The
first closing element 14 and thesecond closing element 16 of thedevice 50 each have twoprofile rails 54 a to 54 d which are mounted to theclosing element other closing element rails 54 a to 54 d serve to keep thetransport container 12 at a distance to the snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c when thetransport container 12 is moved through thedevice 50 during filling with the articles of value. Further, the rails increase the stability of thedevice 50. Advantageously, theclosing elements rails 54 a to 54 d or, respectively, profiles are arranged and/or formed such that they at least partially overlap or partially engage with each other in the closed state of thedevice 50. - Advantageously, the
transport container 12 is wound up or gathered at theframe 52 such that it forms a stock and is wound off step-by-step by the filling with the articles of value. In this way, the length of thetransport container 12 is increased and the stock at theframe 52 is reduced. As a result thereof, the volume of thetransport container 12 can be adapted to the amount of articles of value to be transported. In this case, thedevice 50 will only close the part of thetransport container 12 that is actually filled with the articles of value. This simplifies the handling of thetransport container 12. - Alternatively, the second snap-in
elements 20 a to 20 c can also be formed as rails extending in the longitudinal direction of thesecond closing element 16 in the form of a C-profile. In this embodiment, also the first snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c are turned by 90° so that these can snap into place in L-profiles. By way of the C-profile rails, the stability of the device is increased. - In
FIG. 9 , a perspective schematic illustration of adevice 60 for closing atransport container 12 according to a further embodiment of the invention is shown. In contrast to thedevice 50 according toFIG. 8 , thefirst closing element 14 of thedevice 60 according toFIG. 9 comprises fourshort rails 62 a to 62 d instead of oneclosed rail 54 a. Therails 62 a to 62 d are arranged such that the gaps between each two of theserails 62 a to 62 d are located where the first snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c are located. - The connecting
elements transport container 12 one guidingelement 64 a to 64 d each. The guidingelements 64 a to 64 d are rounded-off at the side facing thetransport container 12. The guidingelements 64 a to 64 d serve to keep thetransport container 12 at a distance to the edges of therails 54 b to 54 d and thus to prevent damage to thetransport container 12 when it is guided past. Further, by way of the guidingelements 64 a to 64 d it is prevented that thetransport container 12 is jammed between the connectingelements rails transport container 12 is guided past during its filling, and thus that it might be damaged. - The
first closing element 14 and thesecond closing element 16 each have twoholes 66 a to 66 d. Theholes 66 a to 66 d are arranged such that the guidingelements 64 a to 64 d of the connectingelements holes 66 a to 66 d when the snap-in connection between the first snap-inelements 18 a to 18 c and the second snap-inelements 20 a to 20 c is formed. - In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the connecting
elements closing elements device 60 is mounted in a holding arrangement, hook-shaped engagement elements of the holding arrangement engage with these holes, said engagement elements being biased via a spring arrangement such that theclosing elements elements elements elements closing elements closing elements - In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one of the
closing elements element device 60 and/or to clearly identify thedevice 60. By way of this safety feature it is to be prevented that thedevice 60 is opened, while being destroyed, and is replaced by another device having the same structure as thedevice 60 without this being noticed. The safety feature is, for example, a writing field on which, in particular, a double signature of two different people may be applied. Additionally or alternatively, at least one RFID chip, at least one barcode and/or at least one serial number may be provided which are applied to thedevice 60 or are integrated therein. - The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the invention, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention.
Claims (17)
1. A device for closing at least one thin-walled transport container for articles of value, said transport container having at least one opening, comprising:
at least one first closing element and a second closing element arranged at a distance to the first closing element,
wherein the first closing element includes at least one first snap-in element and wherein the second closing element comprises at least one second snap-in element that is complementary to the first snap-in element, and
wherein the first closing element and the second closing element are arranged such that at least a part of the opening of the transport container opened for feeding the articles of value can be arranged between the first closing element and the second closing element and that by a movement of at least one closing element with a part of the transport container arranged between the closing elements a snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element can be formed.
2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein by a movement of at least one closing element with a part of the transport container arranged between the closing elements a snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element can be formed, the distance between the first closing element and the second closing element being reduced by the movement.
3. The device according to claim 1 , wherein by a single-axis movement of at least one closing element with a part of the transport container arranged between the closing elements a snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element can be formed.
4. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the articles of value are notes of value, in particular banknotes.
5. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the transport container is a receiving bag, in particular a receiving bag made of foil material or tissue material.
6. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the snap-in elements are formed as one piece with the respective closing element.
7. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the snap-in connection formed by the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element cannot be released non-destructively.
8. The device according to claim 7 , wherein the first snap-in element and/or the second snap-in element has at least one predetermined breaking point at which the first snap-in element or, respectively, the second snap-in element breaks when the snap-in connection is released.
9. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the first closing element and the second closing element are arranged such that, when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element is formed, the part of the transport container into which the articles of value are inserted is closed.
10. The device according to claim 1 , wherein at least one snap-in element pierces at least one wall of the transport container at least once when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element exists.
11. The device according to claim 1 , wherein when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element exists, at least one snap-in element projects through at least one opening of at least one wall of the transport container, which opening is formed by at least one snap-in element when the closing elements are brought together.
12. The device according to claim 1 , wherein a part of the wall of the transport container is clamped between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element exists.
13. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the first closing element and the second closing element are connected to each other with the aid of at least one connecting element.
14. The device according to claim 13 , wherein the first closing element and the second closing element are parallel to each other, the first closing element and the second closing element are connected to each other via two connecting elements, in particular two hinges, the connecting elements are arranged mirror-symmetrically with respect to an axis that is orthogonal to the closing elements and extends through the centers of the closing elements, and the connecting elements are bendable toward the transport container.
15. The device according to claim 14 , wherein the first closing element, the second closing element and the connecting elements are formed as one piece, in particular integrally.
16. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the first closing element and/or the second closing element comprise at least one pin-shaped element which pierces the transport container when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element exists.
17. A method for closing at least one thin-walled transport container for articles of value, said transport container having at least one opening,
in which at least a part of the opening of the transport container opened for feeding the articles of value is arranged between a first closing element comprising at least one first snap-in element and a second closing element comprising at least one second snap-in element that is complementary to the first snap-in element,
in which at least one closing element is moved toward the other closing element,
the opening of the transport container is reduced in this way, and
a snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element is formed.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
DE102008061529A DE102008061529A1 (en) | 2008-12-10 | 2008-12-10 | Device and method for closing at least one thin-walled, at least one opening having transport container for valuables |
DE102008061529.3 | 2008-12-10 | ||
PCT/EP2009/066639 WO2010066739A1 (en) | 2008-12-10 | 2009-12-08 | Device and method for closing at least one thin-walled transporting container which has at least one opening and is intended for items of value |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20110262057A1 true US20110262057A1 (en) | 2011-10-27 |
Family
ID=42026763
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/133,925 Abandoned US20110262057A1 (en) | 2008-12-10 | 2009-12-08 | Device and method for closing at least one thin-walled transporting container which has at least one opening and is intended for items of value |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20110262057A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2374114B1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN102308323B (en) |
DE (1) | DE102008061529A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2010066739A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE102009015047A1 (en) | 2009-03-26 | 2010-09-30 | Wincor Nixdorf International Gmbh | Device for filling a thin-walled transport container with notes of value |
DE102010027358A1 (en) * | 2010-07-16 | 2012-01-19 | Kniggendorf & Kögler GmbH | Safety bag for protected accommodation of banknotes in vault, has barbed hook snapped below catch apertures when closing edges are in contact together, and locking connections outwardly arranged within bag in inaccessible manner |
DE102010046638B4 (en) * | 2010-09-25 | 2014-03-20 | Anton Debatin GmbH Werk für werbende Verpackung | Billfold |
EP2810891B1 (en) | 2013-06-05 | 2016-03-16 | Wincor Nixdorf International GmbH | Device and method for closing at least one thin-walled transport container intended for items of value which has at least one opening |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2010066739A1 (en) | 2010-06-17 |
EP2374114A1 (en) | 2011-10-12 |
CN102308323A (en) | 2012-01-04 |
CN102308323B (en) | 2015-01-07 |
EP2374114B1 (en) | 2018-06-13 |
DE102008061529A1 (en) | 2010-06-17 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
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AS | Assignment |
Owner name: WINCOR NIXDORF INTERNATIONAL GMBH, GERMANY Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:LANGHUBER, DIRK;HOLLAND-LETZ, GUENTER;REEL/FRAME:026564/0579 Effective date: 20110609 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |