WO2017221090A1

WO2017221090A1 - A cash handling method and apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2017221090A1
Application number: PCT/IB2017/053307
Authority: WO
Inventors: Samuel Oluwasiji KOLAJO
Original assignee: Van Der Walt, Louis, Stephanus
Priority date: 2016-06-20
Filing date: 2017-06-05
Publication date: 2017-12-28

Abstract

A mobile cash handling terminal (100) includes a cash handling apparatus (102) which has: i) a user interface (150) configured to receive a user input; ii) a cash receiving mechanism (156) configured to receive a cash deposit; iii) a cash storage mechanism configured to store cash including cash received via the cash receiving mechanism (156); and iv) a cash dispensing mechanism (154) configured to dispense cash from the cash storage mechanism, including cash received via the cash receiving mechanism (156). The mobile cash terminal (100) has an armoured or secure vehicle (104) which securely accommodates the cash handling apparatus (102) and which may be driven, thereby providing mobility; a communication module (310) configured to communicate with a server (202) via a telecommunications network (210), and a control module (356) configured to direct the operation of the cash handling apparatus (102), wherein the control module (356) is configured to facilitate withdrawals and deposits of cash from the cash handling apparatus (102).

Description

A cash handling method and apparatus

FIELD OF INVENTION

This invention relates generally to handling of cash (e.g., banknotes, paper currency, coins, negotiable instruments, etc.). The invention relates specifically to a mobile cash handling terminal which can safely and securely handle cash from a variety of users, not necessarily being associated with a single bank. The invention extends to a related system and method.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

The Applicant is aware of conventional ATMs (Automatic Teller Machines) which dispense cash upon request from an account holder. Usually, the account holder is required to present his bank card to the ATM. Some ATMs also accept cash deposits. However, once a deposit is made, the deposited cash is held separately in escrow until it is returned to the bank, counted, and confirmed. ATMs are installed at fixed locations where cash withdrawals may be needed, e.g., shopping centres, fuel stations, banking vestibules, etc.

The Applicant desires a cash handling apparatus which is more flexible than conventional ATMs and which permits a greater range of financial transactions. Also, conventional ATMs (especially in more developed countries) cater almost exclusively to "banked" users, that is, users having a conventional bank account and associated bank card. In less developed countries, many individuals are "unbanked" meaning that they do not have a conventional bank account but may well rely on some other form of value, e.g., a mobile wallet, prepaid cellular airtime, etc. Accordingly, the Applicant desires a cash handling apparatus which can accommodate both banked and unbanked users.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION The invention provides a mobile cash handling terminal which includes: a cash handling apparatus which includes: a user interface configured to receive a user input; a cash receiving mechanism configured to receive a cash deposit; a cash storage mechanism configured to store cash including cash received via the cash receiving mechanism; and a cash dispensing mechanism configured to dispense cash from the cash storage mechanism, including cash received via the cash receiving mechanism; an armoured or secure vehicle which securely accommodates the cash handling apparatus and which may be driven, thereby providing mobility; a communication module configured to communicate with a server via a telecommunications network; and a control module configured to direct the operation of the cash handling apparatus, wherein the control module is configured to facilitate withdrawals and deposits of cash from the cash handling apparatus.

The cash handling apparatus may be configured to: receive, via the cash receiving mechanism, a cash deposit from a first user and a user input indicative of an account identifier of a first bank to which the cash should be deposited; store, in the cash storage mechanism, the cash deposited; and send, by the control module, to the server, a cash deposit message indicative of the number identifier of the first bank and the amount of cash deposited by the first user, to enable the first bank to credit the first bank account associated with the first bank account number by the amount of cash deposited.

The cash handling apparatus may be configured to: receive, via the user interface, a cash withdrawal request from a second user, the cash withdrawal request indicative of a second account identifier and an amount of cash to be withdrawn by the second user having a second bank account associated with the second bank account number at a second bank, the second user being different from the first user and the second bank being different from the first bank; send, by the control module, to the server, a cash withdrawal request message indicative of the second account identifier and the amount of cash to be withdrawn by the second user; receive, by the control module, from the server, a withdrawal instruction message instructing the cash handling terminal to dispense, using the cash dispensing mechanism, to the second user the amount of cash requested, at least some of which includes at least some of the cash deposited by the first user.

The cash receiving mechanism may be configured to count and verify the cash deposited.

The vehicle may include security means to protect the cash handling terminal.

The cash handling terminal may be cardless. Details of the bank accounts may be inputted via a user input arrangement, such as a keypad. Instead, the cash handling terminal may have a card reader. The card reader may be used for withdrawals but not for deposits. The cash handling terminal may be used for direct payment using cash on the cash handling apparatus for payment of fees, bills, funding of the virtual wallet and funding of wallet of authorised/licensed mobile money operators, tax and other payments.

The invention extends to a cash handling system which includes a plurality of mobile cash handling terminals as defined above.

The system may also include cash handling terminals which are not mobile, e.g., being fixedly installed in an installation, e.g., at a shopping mall or other public place.

The system may include the server. The server may include: a bank module configured to communicate with a plurality of different banks and to facilitate banking actions; and a terminal module configured to communicate with a cash handling terminal and to facilitate terminal actions.

The terminal module may be configured to receive a cash deposit message from the cash handling terminal, the cash deposit message indicative of a bank account number of a first bank and an amount of cash deposited by a first user into the cash handling terminal.

The bank module may be configured to send an account credit message to the first bank, the account credit message indicative of the bank account number and the amount of cash deposited, to enable the first bank to credit the first bank account associated with the first bank account number

The terminal module may be configured to receive a cash withdrawal request message indicative of a second bank account number and an amount of cash to be withdrawn by a second user having a second bank account associated with the second bank account number at a second bank, the second user being different from the first user and the second bank being different from the first bank.

The bank module may be operable to send an account debit message to the second bank, the account debit message indicative of the second bank account number and the amount of cash withdrawn, to enable the second bank to debit the second bank account of the second user by the amount of cash withdrawn.

The terminal module may be operable to send a withdrawal instruction message to the cash handling terminal, instructing the terminal to dispense to the second user the amount of cash requested, at least some of which includes at least some of the cash deposited by the first user.

The invention provides a cash handling method which includes: receiving, via a cash receiving mechanism of a cash handling apparatus, a cash deposit from a first user and a user input indicative of an account identifier of a first bank to which the cash should be deposited;

storing, in a cash storage mechanism of the cash handling apparatus, the cash deposited; sending, by a control module of the cash handling apparatus, to a server, a cash deposit message indicative of the number identifier of the first bank and the amount of cash deposited by the first user, to enable the first bank to credit the first bank account associated with the first bank account number by the amount of cash; receiving, via a user interface of the cash handling apparatus, a cash withdrawal request from a second user, the cash withdrawal request indicative of a second account identifier and an amount of cash to be withdrawn by the second user having a second bank account associated with the second bank account number at a second bank, the second user being different from the first user and the second bank being different from the first bank; sending, by the control module, to the server, a cash withdrawal request message indicative of the second account identifier and the amount of cash to be withdrawn by the second user; and receiving, by the control module, from the server, a withdrawal instruction message instructing the cash handling terminal to dispense, using a cash dispensing mechanism of the cash handling apparatus, to the second user the amount of cash requested, at least some of which includes at least some of the cash deposited by the first user.

The cash handling method may include: receiving, by a terminal module of a server, a cash deposit message from a cash handling terminal, the cash deposit message indicative of a bank account number of a first bank and an amount of cash deposited by a first user into the cash handling terminal; sending, by the bank module of the server, an account credit message to the first bank, the account credit message indicative of the bank account number and the amount of cash deposited, to enable the first bank to credit the first bank account associated with the first bank account number by the amount of cash deposited; receiving, by the terminal module, a cash withdrawal request message indicative of a second bank account number and an amount of cash to be withdrawn by a second user having a second bank account associated with the second bank account number at a second bank, the second user being different from the first user and the second bank being different from the first bank; sending, by the bank module, an account debit message to the second bank, the account debit message indicative of the second bank account number and the amount of cash withdrawn, to enable the second bank to debit the second bank account of the second user by the amount of cash withdrawn; and sending, by the terminal module, a withdrawal instruction message to the cash handling terminal, instructing the terminal to dispense to the second user the amount of cash requested, at least some of which includes at least some of the cash deposited by the first user. The cash handling method may include: receiving, by the terminal module, an identification message from the cash handling terminal, the identification message including the bank account number and an identifier of the first bank; sending, by the bank module, a query message to the first bank to query an accuracy of the identified first bank account; receiving, by the bank module, a response message from the first bank validating the identified first bank account; sending, by the terminal module, a confirmation message to the cash handling terminal, validating the identified first bank account.

The cash handling method may include: sending, by the bank module, a balance query message to the second bank to query a balance of the second bank account; receiving, via the bank module, a balance report message indicative of the balance of the second bank account; and only sending the account debit message and withdrawal instruction message in response to determining that a balance of the second bank account is sufficient to permit the amount of cash requested.

The first user may not necessarily be the owner of the first bank account. That is, the first user may deposit money into another person's bank account. The method may include receiving, via the cash handling terminal, a user input indicative of the first bank account number from the first user. Details of the first bank account number need not necessarily be obtained from a bank card, as is traditional in existing ATMs (Automatic Teller Machines) of which the Applicant is aware. Thus, the first user may be a so- called "unbanked" user, meaning that the first user does not have a conventional bank account. The first bank account may be associated with the first user. In other words, the first bank account may be the user's own bank account. The first bank account may be a traditional bank account or a mobile wallet. Inside, the first bank account may not be associated with the first user. In other words, the first bank account may be somebody else's bank account. The first bank account may be associated with a friend or family member. The first bank account may be associated with a service provider for bills payment, remittances, tax payment and other payments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS The invention will now be further described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying diagrammatic drawings.

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 shows a schematic three-dimensional view of a mobile cash handling terminal in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 2 shows a schematic plan view of the mobile cash handling terminal of

FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 3 shows a photograph of a cash handling apparatus which may be used with the mobile cash handling terminal of FIG. 1 ; FIG. 4 shows a cash handling system comprising a plurality of the cash handling apparatus of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 shows a schematic view of a server of the cash handling system of

FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 shows a schematic view of the cash handling apparatus of FIG. 3; FIGS 7-8 show flow diagrams of methods implemented by the cash handling apparatus of FIG. 6;

FIGS 9-10 show flow diagrams of methods implemented by the server of FIG. 5;

and FIG. 11 shows a schematic representation of a computer system within which a computer program, for causing the computer system to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein, may be executed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENT

The following description of the invention is provided as an enabling teaching of the invention. Those skilled in the relevant art will recognise that many changes can be made to the embodiment described, while still attaining the beneficial results of the present invention. It will also be apparent that some of the desired benefits of the present invention can be attained by selecting some of the features of the present invention without utilising other features. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will recognise that modifications and adaptations to the present invention are possible and can even be desirable in certain circumstances, and are a part of the present invention. Thus, the following description is provided as illustrative of the principles of the present invention and not a limitation thereof.

FIGS 1 -2 illustrate a mobile cash handling terminal 100 in accordance with the invention. The mobile cash handling terminal 100 comprises two primary elements: an armoured vehicle 104 and a cash handling apparatus 102 installed securely within the armoured vehicle 104. Within a cabin of the vehicle 104 is a secure enclosure 106 which defines a secure area in which the cash handling apparatus 102 is accommodated. The vehicle 104 itself may have a number of conventional security features, e.g., armoured cabin, bulletproof windows, etc.

FIG. 2 illustrates the layout of the vehicle 104 in more detail. A front 120 of the vehicle 104 provides space for a driver and an armed escort. An entrance 122 (e.g., a sliding door) is provided to a rear of the vehicle 104 and a security point 124 is also provided in the rear of the vehicle 104. A doorway is provided in the secure enclosure 106 to permit a user through to access the cash handling apparatus 102. FIG. 3 illustrates an example of the cash handling apparatus 102, which has some features in common with a conventional ATM (Automatic Teller Machine). The cash handling apparatus 102 has a combined display and user input arrangement in the form of a touch-sensitive display screen 150. The display screen 150 displays pertinent information (e.g., selectable options, available balance, etc.) and can receive a user input (e.g., account number, indication of amount of money, etc.).

The cash handling apparatus 102 has a cash receiving mechanism 152 configured to receive a cash deposit. The cash receiving mechanism 152 has a built-in note counter to count a number and denomination of deposited banknotes. The cash handling apparatus 102 has a cash dispensing mechanism 154 configured to dispense cash. The cash handling apparatus 102 has therein a cash storage mechanism (not illustrated, because it is provided securely inside a shell of the cash handling apparatus 102). The cash storage mechanism is operable to receive and store cash from the cash receiving mechanism 152 at to dispense stored cash via the cash dispensing mechanism 154.

The cash handling apparatus 102 also has a printer 156, to print receipts and statements, a card reader 158 to read bank cards (e.g., mag stripe or smart chip cards), and a security camera 160 to capture still images or videos.

FIG. 4 illustrates a cash handling system 200. A plurality of cash handling terminals 100 each including a cash handling apparatus 102 form part of the cash handling system 200. Each cash handling apparatus 102 is communicatively coupled by a telecommunications network which, in this example, is the Internet 210, to a cash handling server 202 (merely a "server" for short). The system 200 may also include a plurality of stand-alone (that is, not installed in an armoured vehicle 104) cash handling apparatus which may be similar or identical in setup to the cash handling apparatus 102 secured within the vehicles 104. The server 202 is configured to communicate, also via the Internet 210, with the electronic banking systems of a plurality of banks 204, 206. It will be appreciated that the system 200 is scalable and although only three cash handling apparatus 102 and two banks 204, 206 are illustrated, for simplicity of illustration, there may be significantly more cash handling apparatus 102 and/or banks 204, 206.

The server 202 does not communicate directly with the banks 204, 206. Rather, it communicates via a financial switch 203 which is a specialised network node which is configured to process banking transactions. The server 202, financial switch 203, and banks 204, 206 may be directly connected to each other (as illustrated) or indirectly connected via the internet.

The cash handling apparatus 102 does not communicate directly with the banks 204, 206. Accordingly, the cash handling apparatus 102 are bank-agnostic, not belonging to a particular bank and their operation not being limited to a particular bank. Thus, users 220, 222 of the system 200 need not belong to a particular bank and, in some embodiments, need not belong to a bank at all. Where it is necessary to communicate with one of the banks 204, 206, the server 202 - and not the cash handling apparatus 102 - facilitates this communication. In this example, the server 202 is not hosted by any bank but rather by a neutral, third party.

FIGS 5-6 illustrate schematics of functional components of the cash handling apparatus 102 and server 202 to facilitate inter-communication. In FIG. 5, the server 202 has a processor 300 and a computer readable medium 302 which has stored thereon a computer program 304 which, when executed by the processor 300, directs its operation. The computer program 304 comprises a bank module 306 and a terminal module 308 which are conceptual modules corresponding to functional tasks performed by the processor 300 under direction of the computer program 304. The bank module 306 facilitates transmission of messages via a communication interface 310 to and from the banks 204, 206, while the terminal module 308 facilitates transmission of messages via the communication interface to and from the cash handling apparatus 102. The functional components of the server 202 are not necessarily consolidated into one device, as in this example, but may be distributed or networked among a number of devices.

In FIG. 6, the cash handling apparatus 102 also has a processor 350 and a computer readable medium 352 which has stored thereon a computer program 354 which, when executed by the processor 350, directs its operation. The computer program 354 embodies a control module 356 which directs the operation of the cash handling apparatus 102 both from the perspective of transmission of messages via a communication interface 360 to and from the server 202 and from the perspective of handling the cash itself.

The invention will further be described with reference to FIGS 7-10 which describe methods performed by the system 100 in use in various scenarios. FIGS 7-8 illustrate methods 700, 800 from the perspective of the cash handling apparatus 102 while FIGS 9-10 illustrate methods 900, 1000 from the perspective of the server 202.

FIG. 7 illustrates a method 700 of depositing money into one of the cash handling terminals 100. A first user 220 has a bank account (referred to as a first bank account) with a first bank 204 and wishes to deposit cash on-hand into his bank account. He approaches and begins using the cash handling apparatus 102 as he would any conventional ATM. The first user 220 enters information via the user interface 150. The information which the users enters includes i. a selection of preferred language, ii. a selection of deposit function, and iii. an input of an account identifier. The cash handling apparatus 702 receives, at block 702, the user input indicative of an account identifier of the first user 220. The account identifier may be inputted in at least two ways: the first user 220 may type his account number into the user interface 150. Instead, the first user 220 may present his bank card associated with the first bank account to the card reader 158, and the account identifier would then be read by the card reader 158 (which, for the purposes of this specification, constitutes receiving a user input indicative of an account identifier). The control module 356 may first generate and send a query message to the server 202 for onward sending to the first bank 204 to query an accuracy of the supplied account identifier. The control module 356 may then receive a response message validating, or not validating, the account identifier. The first user 220 then deposits the cash by feeding it into the cash receiving mechanism 152 which receives and counts the cash. Optionally, the first user 220 could enter, via the user interface 150, an indication of the amount he intends to deposit, as a verification of the counting.

The cash receiving mechanism 152 receives, at block 704, the cash. The cash receiving mechanism 152 detects any counterfeit notes or notes that it cannot recognise. If such notes are detected, the cash is returned to the first user 220 and the transaction is aborted. If the notes are all counted correctly, they are conveyed to a temporary escrow module which the transaction is still pending. The control module 356 generates and sends, at block 706, a cash deposit message, including the account identifier and an indication of the counted cash deposited, to the server 202.

The server 202 generates and sends a deposit result message, which is received, at block 708, by the control module 356. The deposit result message may either confirm the deposit transaction or decline it, at block 710. If the control module 356 receives confirmation of the transaction, it directs the cash receiving mechanism 152 to convey, at block 712, the cash to the cash storage mechanism securely within the bowels of the cash handling apparatus 102 for use in later withdrawals. Instead, if the control module 346 is notified that the transaction is declined, it directs the cash receiving mechanism 152 to eject, at block 714, the cash held in escrow to return it back to the user and aborts the transaction. A receipt indicative of an outcome of the transaction is printed. All transactions, including details of failed or declined transactions, are logged by the server 202.

The method 700 differs from that implemented by conventional ATMs in a number of ways. First, a bank card is not necessarily required, but merely an identifier of a bank account (of which presentation of a bank card is but one possibility). Second, the cash handling apparatus 102 does not communicate directly with the associated bank 204, but rather with an intermediate server 202. Third, and most importantly, the deposited cash is not held in escrow or abeyance until it can be counted by a human teller. It is deployed in the cash storage mechanism for immediate re-use for cash withdrawals. This means that it does not need to be transported back to the first bank 204, counted, and then re-issued to an ATM to be available for withdrawals.

A variation of method 700 is that the first user 220 can deposit cash in a bank account which is not his. The bank account may belong to a family member, to a mobile wallet provider, to a service provider, etc. For example, using an identifier of a mobile wallet (which, for the purposes of this specification, is considered a type of bank account), the first user 220 can deposit money into his mobile wallet or that of a friend. Instead, using an invoice number, the first user 220 can deposit money into an account of a service provider, e.g., a municipality or energy company to pay for electricity. In such case, the account identifier which the first user 220 enters is not his own account number - it is the account number of the beneficiary.

FIG. 8 illustrates a method 800 of withdrawing money from the cash handling apparatus 102. A second user 222 approaches the cash handling apparatus 102 to withdraw cash from it. Using the user input arrangement 150, he selects an option to withdraw money and enters an account identifier. Correspondingly, the cash handling apparatus 102 receives, at block 802, the withdrawal request (including the account identifier). Again, the account identifier may be entered in at least two ways: first, by presenting a bank card to the card reader 158 or, second, by typing an account identifier into the user input arrangement 150.

The control module 356 generates and sends, at block 804, a withdrawal request message to the server 202, for onward communication with one of the banks 204, 206 or other wallet or service providers. In due course, the cash handling apparatus 102 receives, at block 806, a withdrawal instruction message from the server 202, confirming that it may or may not dispense the requested amount of cash. In response to the withdrawal instruction message confirming that the cash may be withdrawn, the control module 356 actuates the cash dispensing mechanism to dispense, at block 808, the requested amount of cash from the cash storage mechanism to the second user 222. At least a portion of cash or banknotes were those deposited by the first user 220. It should be noted that the first user 220 and the second user 222 may be unconnected individuals, with no prior relationship and even with no knowledge of the existence of the other.

Again, the system 200 provides two withdrawal scenarios: first, when the second user 222 is a banked user and has a conventional bank account and associated bank card and, second, when the second user is an unbanked user without a bank card. In the first scenario, the banked second user 222 merely provides his bank card (e.g., ATM card) to the card reader 158 and withdraws money, as he would at a conventional ATM. However, in the second scenario, the unbanked second user 222 cannot provide a bank card and a conventional ATM would not serve him. Instead, he enters details of, for example, a mobile wallet which may be identified, e.g., by a mobile telephone number and a linked PIN. He can then enjoy the same withdrawal facilities that a banked user traditionally enjoys.

FIG. 9 illustrates a method 900 implemented by the server 202 when receiving the deposit from the first user 220. The terminal module 308 of the server 202 receives, at block 902, the cash deposit message from the cash handling apparatus 102, the cash deposit message indicative of a quantum of money and of an account identifier. The bank module 306 resolves an identity of a bank - the first bank 204, in this example - linked to the account identifier. The bank module 306 decides, at block 904, whether or not to authorise the transaction, based on pre-defined transaction criteria (e.g., is the account identifier valid?).

If the transactions is authorised, the bank module 306 then generates and sends, at block 906, an account credit message to the first bank, instructing the first bank 204 to credit the first bank account associated with the account identifier by the quantum of cash deposited. The terminal module 308 in turn generates and sends, at block 908, a deposit result message to the cash handling apparatus 100, indicative of either the approved or declined transaction. FIG. 10 illustrates a method 1000 implemented by the server 202 when the second user 222 withdraws money. The server 202, and specifically the terminal module 308, receives, at block 1002, the withdrawal request message from the cash handling apparatus 102, indicative of an amount of money to be withdrawn and an account identifier from where to draw the money. The bank module 306 resolves the second bank 206 from the withdrawal request message and generates and sends, at block 1004, an account debit message to the second bank 206 to direct the second bank 206 to reduce the second bank account associated with the account identifier by the amount requested to be withdrawn.

The terminal module then generates and sends, at block 1006, a withdrawal instruction to the cash handling apparatus 102 instructing the cash handling apparatus 102 to dispense the requested cash. Naturally, there may be additional back and forth acknowledgement and confirmation messages conventionally associated with banking transactions.

FIG. 1 1 illustrates a diagrammatic representation of a computer system 1 100 within which a set of instructions, for causing the computer system 1 100 to perform any one or more of the methodologies described herein, may be executed. In a networked deployment, the computer system 1 100 may operate in the capacity of a server or a client machine in server-client network environment, or as a peer machine in a peer- to-peer (or distributed) network environment.

The computer system 1 100 may be a personal computer (PC), a tablet PC, a set-top box (STB), a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), a cellular telephone, a tablet, a web appliance, a network router, switch or bridge, or any computer system 1 100 capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that computer system 1 100. Further, while only a single computer system 1 100 is illustrated, the term "computer" shall also be taken to include any collection of computers that individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein. The example computer system 1 100 includes a computer processor 1 102 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU) or both, a main memory 1 104 and a static memory 1 106, which communicate with each other via a bus 1 108. The computer system 1 100 may further include a video display unit 1 1 10 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD)). The computer system 1 100 also includes an alphanumeric input device 1 1 12 (e.g., a keyboard or touchscreen), a user interface (Ul) navigation device 1 1 14 (e.g., a mouse or touchscreen), a disk drive unit 1 1 16, a signal generation device 1 1 18 (e.g., a speaker) and a network interface device 1 120.

The disk drive unit 1 1 16 includes a computer-readable medium 1 122 on which is stored one or more sets of instructions and data structures (e.g., computer software or a computer program 1 124) embodying or utilised by any one or more of the methodologies or functions described herein. The computer software 1 124 may also reside, completely or at least partially, within the main memory 1 104 and/or within the processor 1 102 during execution thereof by the computer system 1 100, the main memory 1 104 and the processor 1 102 also constituting computer-readable media.

The computer software 1 124may further be transmitted or received over a network 1 126 via the network interface device 1 120 utilizing any one of a number of well-known transfer protocols (e.g., HTTP, FTP).

While the computer-readable medium 1 122 is shown in an example embodiment to be a single medium, the term "computer-readable medium" should be taken to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralised or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers) that store the one or more sets of instructions. The term "computer-readable medium" shall also be taken to include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions for execution by the computer system 1 100 and that cause the computer system 1 100 to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the present embodiments, or that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying data structures utilized by or associated with such a set of instructions. The term "computer-readable medium" shall accordingly be taken to include, but not be limited to, solid-state memories and optical and magnetic media. The computer-readable medium may be a non-transitory medium.

The cash handling apparatus 102 and/or the server 202 may include at least some of the components of the computer system 1 100.

The Applicant believes that the invention as exemplified has a number of advantages. The invention is a new approach in the application and/or the use of a cash handling apparatus, which may be considered as smart deposit devices/safes/boxes/teller assist machines, to effect multi-vendor, multi-retailer use of deposit machines/devices irrespective of their banks. The innovation allows for both mobile and static use of deposit machine for multiple retailer and multi-bank use.

The mobility is achieve by placing the cash handling apparatus inside armoured CIT (cash-in-transit) vehicles, which is a different approach from the conventional way of being stationary in a supermarket, banking hall and any other places where it is needed. This would encourage the use of the cash handling apparatus in multiple locations in places with less infrastructure, therefore saving cost of device redundancy. It would be suitable where conventional ATMs cannot be situated because of security threats on the device and it could be used where conventional ATMs would normally not be justified for the general rate of cash deposit in a particular location, but would be needed at specific times, e.g., on a major market day. Use of the cash handling apparatus will reduce the amount of visits to central cash centres, because of the recycling of cash from a particular cash handling apparatus. The cash handling apparatus would only need to be topped up or emptied periodically if rate of deposit and withdrawal are disparate.

The ability of the proposed invention both for stationery and mobile deposit machines/devices to be used for multi-vendor, multi-retailer use irrespective of their banks (e.g. multi-vendor, multi-bank, multi-retailer smart deposit device/safe/box use), payment of fees, bills, tax and other payments directly using cash on deposit machine/recycler irrespective of the service providers banker, funding of the virtual wallet of licensed mobile money operators or any other virtual wallet using cash on the cash handling apparatus provide a myriad of benefits and enhance the uniqueness of the present invention.

Claims

1. A mobile cash handling terminal which includes: a cash handling apparatus which includes: a user interface configured to receive a user input; a cash receiving mechanism configured to receive a cash deposit; a cash storage mechanism configured to store cash including cash received via the cash receiving mechanism; and a cash dispensing mechanism configured to dispense cash from the cash storage mechanism, including cash received via the cash receiving mechanism; an armoured or secure vehicle which securely accommodates the cash handling apparatus and which may be driven, thereby providing mobility; a communication module configured to communicate with a server via a telecommunications network; and a control module configured to direct the operation of the cash handling apparatus, wherein the control module is configured to facilitate withdrawals and deposits of cash from the cash handling apparatus.

2. The cash handling terminal as claimed in claim 1 , in which the cash handling apparatus is configured to: receive, via the cash receiving mechanism, a cash deposit from a first user and a user input indicative of an account identifier of a first bank to which the cash should be deposited; store, in the cash storage mechanism, the cash deposited; and send, by the control module, to the server, a cash deposit message indicative of the number identifier of the first bank and the amount of cash deposited by the first user, to enable the first bank to credit the first bank account associated with the first bank account number by the amount of cash deposited. The cash handling terminal as claimed in claim 2, in which the cash handling apparatus is configured to: receive, via the user interface, a cash withdrawal request from a second user, the cash withdrawal request indicative of a second account identifier and an amount of cash to be withdrawn by the second user having a second bank account associated with the second bank account number at a second bank, the second user being different from the first user and the second bank being different from the first bank; send, by the control module, to the server, a cash withdrawal request message indicative of the second account identifier and the amount of cash to be withdrawn by the second user; receive, by the control module, from the server, a withdrawal instruction message instructing the cash handling terminal to dispense, using the cash dispensing mechanism, to the second user the amount of cash requested, at least some of which includes at least some of the cash deposited by the first user.

The cash handling terminal as claimed in any one of claims 1 -3, which is configured to: process a cardless transaction by receiving, via the user interface, a user input indicative of an account identifier; or process a card transaction by reading, via a card reader, an account identifier from a bank card.

The cash handling terminal as claimed in any one of claims 1 -2, which is used for direct payment using cash on the cash handling apparatus for payment of fees, bills, funding of the virtual wallet and funding of wallet of authorised/licensed mobile money operators, tax and other payments. A cash handling system which includes: a plurality of mobile cash handling terminals as claimed in any one of claims 1 -5.

7. The system as claimed in claim 6, which includes cash handling terminals which are not mobile but which are fixedly installed.

8. The system as claimed in any one of claims 6-7 which includes a server which includes: a bank module configured to communicate with a plurality of different banks and to facilitate banking actions; and a terminal module configured to communicate with a cash handling terminal and to facilitate terminal actions.

9. The system as claimed in claim 8, in which the terminal module is configured to receive a cash deposit message from the cash handling terminal, the cash deposit message indicative of a bank account number of a first bank and an amount of cash deposited by a first user into the cash handling terminal.

10. The system as claimed in claim 9, in which the bank module is configured to send an account credit message to the first bank, the account credit message indicative of the account identifier and the amount of cash deposited, to enable the first bank to credit the first bank account associated with the account identifier.

11. The system as claimed in any one of claims 8-10, in which the terminal module is configured to receive a cash withdrawal request message indicative of a second bank account number and an amount of cash to be withdrawn by a second user having a second bank account associated with the second bank account number at a second bank, the second user being different from the first user and the second bank being different from the first bank.

2. The system as claimed in claim 1 1 , in which the bank module is operable to send an account debit message to the second bank, the account debit message indicative of the second bank account number and the amount of cash withdrawn, to enable the second bank to debit the second bank account of the second user by the amount of cash withdrawn.

3. The system as claimed in any one of claims 1 1 -12, in which the terminal module is operable to send a withdrawal instruction message to the cash handling terminal, instructing the terminal to dispense to the second user the amount of cash requested, at least some of which includes at least some of the cash deposited by the first user.

4. A cash handling method which includes: receiving, via a cash receiving mechanism of a cash handling apparatus, a cash deposit from a first user and a user input indicative of an account identifier of a first bank to which the cash should be deposited; storing, in a cash storage mechanism of the cash handling apparatus, the cash deposited; sending, by a control module of the cash handling apparatus, to a server, a cash deposit message indicative of the number identifier of the first bank and the amount of cash deposited by the first user, to enable the first bank to credit the first bank account associated with the first bank account number by the amount of cash; receiving, via a user interface of the cash handling apparatus, a cash withdrawal request from a second user, the cash withdrawal request indicative of a second account identifier and an amount of cash to be withdrawn by the second user having a second bank account associated with the second bank account number at a second bank, the second user being different from the first user and the second bank being different from the first bank; sending, by the control module, to the server, a cash withdrawal request message indicative of the second account identifier and the amount of cash to be withdrawn by the second user; and receiving, by the control module, from the server, a withdrawal instruction message instructing the cash handling terminal to dispense, using a cash dispensing mechanism of the cash handling apparatus, to the second user the amount of cash requested, at least some of which includes at least some of the cash deposited by the first user.

The cash handling method as claimed in claim 14, which further includes: receiving, by a terminal module of a server, a cash deposit message from a cash handling terminal, the cash deposit message indicative of a bank account number of a first bank and an amount of cash deposited by a first user into the cash handling terminal; sending, by the bank module of the server, an account credit message to the first bank, the account credit message indicative of the bank account number and the amount of cash deposited, to enable the first bank to credit the first bank account associated with the first bank account number by the amount of cash deposited; receiving, by the terminal module, a cash withdrawal request message indicative of a second bank account number and an amount of cash to be withdrawn by a second user having a second bank account associated with the second bank account number at a second bank, the second user being different from the first user and the second bank being different from the first bank; sending, by the bank module, an account debit message to the second bank, the account debit message indicative of the second bank account number and the amount of cash withdrawn, to enable the second bank to debit the second bank account of the second user by the amount of cash withdrawn; and sending, by the terminal module, a withdrawal instruction message to the cash handling terminal, instructing the terminal to dispense to the second user the amount of cash requested, at least some of which includes at least some of the cash deposited by the first user.

6. The method as claimed in any one of claims 15, which includes: receiving, by the terminal module, an identification message from the cash handling terminal, the identification message including the bank account number and an identifier of the first bank; sending, by the bank module, a query message to the first bank to query an accuracy of the identified first bank account; receiving, by the bank module, a response message from the first bank validating the identified first bank account; sending, by the terminal module, a confirmation message to the cash handling terminal, validating the identified first bank account.

7. The method as claimed in any one of claims 14-15, which includes:: sending, by the bank module, a balance query message to the second bank to query a balance of the second bank account; receiving, via the bank module, a balance report message indicative of the balance of the second bank account; and only sending the account debit message and withdrawal instruction message in response to determining that a balance of the second bank account is sufficient to permit the amount of cash requested.

8. A computer-readable medium having stored thereon a computer program which, when executed by a computer system, causes the computer system to implement a method as claimed in any one of claims 14-17.