Cash dispensing automated banking machine with note unstacking and validation

Technical field [0001] The invention relates to automatic ATM machines. More specifically, the invention relates to ATM machines that have the ability to receive sheets of financial instruments such as banknotes, checks and other documents from users. The invention also relates to ATM machines that issue financial instrument sheets to users of these machines. The invention further relates to improved user interfaces for such ATM machines.

Background of the invention [0002] A typical type of banking machine used by consumers is an automatic ATM machine ("ATM"). ATM machines allow clients to carry out banking transactions. Bank transactions carried out using ATM machines can include spending cash, depositing deposits, transferring funds between accounts and inquiries about the balance of the account. The types of banking transactions that a customer can carry out are determined by the capabilities of a particular ATM machine and the software of the machine operating institution.

[0003] Other types of ATM machines can be operated by traders for commercial transactions. These transactions may include, for example, accepting deposit bags, accepting checks or other financial instruments, issuing rolls of coins, or other transactions required by merchants. Still other types of ATM machines can be used by service providers in a transactional environment, such as a bank, to conduct financial transactions. Such transactions may include, for example, counting and storing cash banknotes or other sheets constituting financial instruments, issuing banknotes or other sheets, imaging checks or other financial instruments, as well as other types of transactions by the service provider. For the purposes of this disclosure, an ATM machine will be intended to include any machine that can be used to carry out transactions involving value transfers.

[0004] Multiple ATM machines are necessary to handle sheets constituting financial instruments. Such sheets may include, for example, banknotes, checks or other documents that represent a certain value. In some cases, financial instrument sheets may have different properties for different sheets. For example, some sheets may be new and stiff, while others that are equally important may be worn and worn. Alternatively, sheets constituting financial instruments may be of a different type and have different properties. These may include, for example, combinations of documents such as banknotes and checks, which may be contained in various types of paper or plastic materials. Mechanisms that can separate each individual sheet from a file quickly and reliably, especially in situations where the sheets have different properties, pose a challenge.

[0006] ATM machines are often located in places that are sometimes left unattended by bank officials or representatives of other units owning machines. In such cases, security features are desirable to make it difficult for criminals to attack the machine and gain access to valuable sheets of financial instruments that may be in it.

ΕΡ 1 673 740 Β1 [0007] Some ATM machines are operated under conditions in which they are exposed to atmospheric agents. In these situations, rain or snow may enter the machine's openings and cause problems. This can happen especially with delicate mechanisms inside the machine that support sheets that are financial instruments.

[0008] ATM machines are useful because they perform banking functions in a substantially fast and reliable manner. Nevertheless, there are situations in which machines must be shut down for preventive maintenance or maintenance. In such cases, it is desirable to allow the authorized service personnel to perform maintenance as soon as possible. This is preferably done by allowing authorized service personnel to gain direct access to the inside of the machine, while minimizing the risk of unauthorized access by criminals.

[0009] Patent US-A-6,128,402 (Jones William et al.) Of October 3, 2000 describes an automatic banking machine or also a machine for obtaining cash, which is suitable for handling cash deposits as well as withdrawals. The document does not give the slightest hint or suggestion regarding:

- at least one sensor located in the first direction of the at least one collecting member, wherein the at least one sensor is adapted to detect sheet thickness;

- at least one controller (koi. 41 w. 56-62; Fig. 2b designation 30) located in the working connection with at least one sensor;

- wherein, in response to at least one sensor detecting multiple overlapping sheets adjacent to the at least one sensor, the at least one controller operates to cause at least one drive to move at least one collecting member and at least one member gripping in such a way that one of these numerous sheets coupled to the at least one collecting member is pushed in the other direction, in the opposite direction to the first direction, a distance greater than the distance over which the next sheet of the plurality of sheets coupled to the at least one gripping member is pushed in the other direction.

[0010] Thus, there is a need for ATM machines with improved properties in terms of handling financial instrument sheets, weather resistance, security, and maintenance.

Disclosure of the Invention [0011] The purpose of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide an ATM machine. [0012] Another object of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide an ATM machine that has improved handling capabilities for sheets constituting financial instruments.

[0013] Another object of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide an ATM machine that provides improved security.

[0014] Another object of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide an ATM machine that facilitates user operation.

[0015] Another object of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide an ATM machine that has improved weather resistance.

[0016] Another object of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide an ATM machine that has improved maintenance access.

EP 1 673 740 Β1 [0017] Further objects of the present invention will become apparent in the following best embodiments of the invention and in the appended claims.

[0018] Some of the above stated objectives are achieved in an embodiment of the present invention by a banking machine which is an automatic ATM machine ("ATM"). The ATM machine includes a user interface that includes input devices for receiving input signals that identify user bills as well as input signals from users causing the machine to perform transaction functions. The user interface contains one or more output devices that send signals such as user instructions when operating a machine.

[0019] The embodiment includes a cash accepting mechanism that is suitable for receiving a file of documents from a user. In this embodiment, the document file may comprise a file of banknotes of different denominations or a file containing mixed types of sheets constituting financial instruments, such as banknotes and checks. In order to define and handle these sheets constituting financial instruments, this embodiment includes a mechanism that works by separating each sheet individually from a file. This is done in this embodiment by moving the gripping member which comprises a number of sheet coupling parts, which parts engage the first edge sheet in the file and push the sheet to move in the first direction. In this embodiment, the coupling parts of the sheets are separated by recesses that extend along the first direction. To reduce the risk of any sheets other than the first sheet being separated from the file, the first collecting portion is substantially aligned with at least one depression. The first collecting part couples the first sheet on its surface opposite the sheet surface coupled by the coupling parts. This first scraper portion is generally not in contact picking engagement with the gripping member and also remains located sufficiently away from it to allow the first sheet to pass directly into the gripping member and the first collecting portion.

[0020] In an embodiment, the coupling of the first sheet with the gripping member and the first collecting portion acts to give the configuration a wavy cross-section of the sheet. Giving this corrugated cross-sectional configuration and the force with which the gripping member acts essentially separates the first sheet delimiting the file from other sheets in the file.

[0021] In an embodiment, the second scrap portion is used and is coupled by the first sheet as it moves in the first direction after the sheet has been coupled by the first scrap portion. The second collecting portion is generally engaged in a contact collecting engagement with the gripping member. The second collecting part is pivoted towards the gripping member with such a force that sheets other than the first sheet moving in the first direction cannot move beyond the second collecting part while the sheet can move between the gripping member and the second collecting part. In this embodiment, the relative movement of the gripping member in the collecting coupling with the second collecting part works in most cases so that it separates the additional sheets from the first sheet which has not been separated by the first collecting part. For example, sheets constituting financial instruments may have different friction properties and stiffness depending on the sheet. For this reason, sheets that are not separated by the action of the gripping member and the first collecting member will often be separated by the action of the gripping member and the second collecting part.

EP 1 673 740 Β1 [0022] In an embodiment, the gripping member comprises a substantially cylindrical member with arcuate high-friction segments disposed therein for coupling the sheet. In the embodiment, these high friction segments are separated by annular depressions. In this embodiment, the first scraper portion includes a surface of a plurality of rollers that are located in substantially opposite but contactless engagement with the annular recesses. The first pickup rollers serve as a contactless pickup, each of which is in working connection with a one-way coupling that resists the movement of the rollers in the rotational direction in which the rollers are pushed when the first sheet was separated from the file. This one-way clutch, however, allows the sheet to easily move in the opposite direction in such a way as to return the sheet to the file. This can be done in some embodiments, when it is detected that overlapping double sheets have been captured and it is desirable to return the sheets in an attempt to capture all but one sheet. In the first embodiment, the second scraper portion serves as a contact scraper and comprises a surface of at least one contact scraper roller that is pivoted to engage the collecting with the sheet coupling portion in the gripping member. The contact pickup roller according to the first embodiment is similarly in working connection with the one-way clutch in such a way as to resist the movement of the sheet being removed from the file to ensure collection, while it is allowed to move the sheet to be returned to the file.

[0023] In some alternative embodiments, one or both of the collecting members may be driven by one or more drives in a coordinated relationship with the gripping member. In such embodiments, these collecting members can be driven to reconfigure the sheets to facilitate separation. For example, in some embodiments, the sheets may be oriented in a file in such a way that the sheets are positioned relative to each other in a way that makes it difficult to separate the sheets. For example, if the sheet located at the bottom of the file is the one to be separated by moving in the first direction through the gripping member, and such a sheet from the bottom is in a relation of leaning against each other with the sheet above it, which is significantly moved in the first direction relative to the underlying sheet, you may encounter difficulties separating the two sheets until they are reoriented in such a way that the top sheet is positioned so that it is aligned or retarded with respect to the first sheet with respect to the gripping direction.

[0024] This can be done in some embodiments by selectively driving one or more collecting members when several banknotes have been detected that have passed the collecting members. In such cases, the direction of the picking members and one or more of the picking members may be reversed, but with one or both of the picking members driven in such a way that the picking member moves the top sheet further away in the opposite of the gripping direction than the gripping member moves. underneath. This can be accomplished in a number of ways, which may include, for example, causing the collecting member or members to push the sheet and move it back towards the file when the file end sheet is held still by the gripping member. Alternatively, both the gripping member and one or both collecting members may move a number of overlapping sheets back toward the file, but the collecting members move in such a way that they drive the top sheets at a higher speed and thus over a greater distance. Alternatively or additionally,

EP 1 673 740 Β1 collecting members can drive the top sheet back towards the file for a long time, and thus the sheet lying on the bottom sheet to be separated is pushed over a larger distance. Of course, other concepts for moving the top sheet relative to the sheet to be gripped may be used to facilitate sheet separation when the gripping member again pushes the file end sheet and moves it in the gripping direction. However, it should be understood that these arrangements are exemplary and other concepts may be used in other embodiments.

[0025] An embodiment of an ATM machine further includes a housing. This enclosure includes a console that contains user interface elements and runs through the outer wall of the structure. The ATM machine housing inside the structure includes a secured chest portion at the bottom of the housing. In an embodiment, the chest is essentially a cross-shaped chest. In this embodiment, the L-shaped chest has a sheet-receiving mechanism, such as a cash accepting device, arranged in a support connection with the chest. The cash acceptance mechanism works in such a way that it analyzes sheets that have been separated from the file due to the action of the gripping member and the collecting part, and also directs the sheets to be stored in the machine to the chest through the hole in the upper surface of the chest. In an embodiment, this cash accepting mechanism is mounted in a movable manner in a support connection with the crate in such a way that when the maintenance door is opened, the cash accepting mechanism can be moved backwards for maintenance work.

[0026] In the embodiment, due to the fact that the cash accepting mechanism is located outside the crate and can be moved to reveal the opening, it is possible to minimize the risk that criminals can access the sheets constituting financial instruments in the crate by cash acceptance hole. This is done in the embodiment by providing a transport assembly that moves the sheets of financial instruments transported to the crate from the cash accepting assembly in a transverse direction relative to the cash accepting opening in the crate. After being displaced transversely to the cash acceptance hole, the sheets are then transported to a sheet storage mechanism, which may be assembled from storage compartments or other sheet handling mechanisms. In this embodiment, the security plate is used in an intermediate relationship between the transport assembly that displaces the sheets transversely from the chest opening and the banknote storage mechanism. This security plate reduces the criminal's ability to access stored sheets through a cash-accepting hole. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the driving force for the transport assembly is provided by coupling the driving member of the cash accepting mechanism with the driven member through the cash accepting opening. The presence of these members inside the opening further blocks the opening and reduces the risk that the criminal will be able to access stored financial instrument sheets.

[0027] In an embodiment, the cash accepting mechanism is provided with a chute for receiving document files from the user. In the operating position of the cash acceptance mechanism, the gutter opening is controlled by the gate. However, as can be deduced, it is necessary for the machine to open the gate to allow the user to place or remove sheets from the gutter. Under certain circumstances, rain, snow and moisture can get into the gutter when the gate is

EP 1 673 740 Β1 open. The presence of rain, snow or moisture in the chute can interfere with the proper operation of the machine. In order to minimize such risk in this embodiment, a water-catching hole is used in the bottom surface of the interior of the gutter. This water-catching opening operates in such a way that it traps moisture that can enter the gutter, the collected moisture being led in the embodiment to a drain which remains in fluid communication with the space outside the machine housing. In this embodiment, the drain is passed through the bottom surface of the console. Also in this embodiment, due to the fact that the cash accepting mechanism can move, an elastic gasket is used in a relationship substantially enveloping the gutter and internally relative to the console. In the operating position of the cash acceptance mechanism, this springy gasket provides a substantially liquid tight seal, so that water, snow or other atmospheric factors cannot penetrate the housing through the opening in the console through which the gutter runs in the operating position.

[0028] In an embodiment, the cash accepting mechanism operates to collect unaccepted sheets, such as potentially fake banknotes, in a tray for suspicious banknotes outside of a secure chest. In this embodiment, authorized service personnel who have access to the enclosure area outside the secure box may remove such unacceptable sheets. An easily accessible locking device is used to facilitate the removal of such suspicious sheets by authorized persons. Moreover, in some embodiments, the locking mechanisms may be used not only in the enclosure area outside the secure box, but also a separate locking mechanism may be used for the specific compartment in which these unacceptable sheets are stored. There is therefore certainty that only authorized persons gain access to these unaccepted sheets, while it is still ensured that other authorized persons can access the relevant machine components without accessing stored unacceptable sheets.

[0029] In an embodiment, the cash accepting mechanism further comprises closing plates that substantially limit the components of the mechanism. These closing plates, when in the operating position, reduce the risk of dirt or other contaminants getting inside the mechanism, and also reduce the risk of unintended damage to the mechanism when other components are subjected to maintenance. In this embodiment, these closing plates are easily opened by hinged or sliding systems that allow the plates to open when the mechanism is in the maintenance position. In the examples of implementation, the concept of mounting closing plates is used, which facilitates access to the components of the cash acceptance module, while ensuring that these plates will be reapplied after completing all repair activities. This ensures that the benefits obtained from these closing plates will not be accidentally lost as a result of neglecting to reinstall them after maintenance work.

[0030] In some embodiments, cash sheets accepted by the cash acceptance mechanism are stored in selected compartments. This allows you to store any type of sheet in a specific range. In some embodiments, mechanisms are used to re-issue such sheets from the compartment in such a way as to allow important sheets to be recycled. In alternative embodiments, sheets that have been validated by me6

ΕΡ 1 673 740 Β1 cash acceptance chanism are stored in one or more storage containers. In some embodiments, the storage containers include an internal area that is delimited at the lower end by a movable shaking member. This shaking member supports folded sheets in the inner area. The actuating element is in working connection with the shaking member in such a way as to shake the deposited objects inside the container. This facilitates the release and settlement of items in such a way as to facilitate storage of the maximum number of items in the container. In some embodiments, the container can be removed from the machine. In further embodiments, the container includes rolling brackets and a retractable handle to facilitate the movement of the container from the machine and further away from the machine when it has been filled with deposit objects. Although this embodiment is described in relation to sheet storage, the basic features can be used to store other items, such as tickets and deposit envelopes.

[0031] In some embodiments of the machine, the user interface comprises devices emitting multi-colored light in such a way as to facilitate user operation of the machine. In some embodiments, these light emitting devices are selectively controlled by at least one controller in the machine to emit light of a selected color in response to conditions associated with functional transaction devices. For example, the controller may operate in such a way that it guides the user to a certain place on the user interface where the user should perform a specific transaction action. In some embodiments, light emitting devices selectively emit green, yellow, and red light and may operate to indicate the status or status of a particular device. Alternatively, light emitting devices may flash the same or different colors at different speeds to provide information or to facilitate machine operation.

[0032] In some embodiments, the user interface of the machine is provided with horizontally arranged convex mirrors positioned vertically above the user interface. Such mirrors are positioned in such a way as to facilitate the machine user's ability to observe the area behind him or elsewhere near the user. This reduces the risk of people near you not being noticed by the user performing the transaction on the machine. Exemplary horizontally arranged convex mirrors are further oriented outwardly to the light that illuminates the user interface to facilitate its operation by the user. This reduces the risk of glare and makes it easier for the user to see the area in the mirrors. In some embodiments, a condition may be detected to detect the need to clean one or more mirrors and to use embedded cleaning mechanisms.

[0033] Further new aspects of the embodiments will become apparent from the following detailed description. It should be understood that the features described are exemplary, and in other embodiments, other concepts may be used in which the features and relationships claimed herein may be used.

Brief description of the drawings [0034]

Fig. 1 is a front elevational view of the console of an ATM automatic ATM machine according to an embodiment,

Fig. 2 is a schematic side view of the components inside the housing of the ATM machine shown in Fig. 1,

ΕΡ 1 673 740 Β1

Fig. 3 is another schematic side view of the components inside the housing of the ATM machine shown in Fig. 1,

Fig. 4 is a view of the mechanism that assembles a sheet file that can be used in the example of ATM machine implementation,

Fig. 5 is another view of an exemplary sheet file folding mechanism that can be used to store many types of sheets,

Fig. 6 is a rear view of the ATM machine housing according to an embodiment,

Fig. 7 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the mechanism for separating sheets from a file of financial instrument sheets placed inside an ATM machine,

Fig. 8 is a front elevational view of an exemplary gripping member in combination with a plurality of contactless pickup rollers and a contact pickup roller used to separate individual sheets from a file,

Fig. 9 is a schematic view showing the separation of the first sheet from the stack of sheets by the mechanism of Fig. 7,

Fig. 10 is a view showing the corrugated cross-section configuration given to the sheet by the action of the gripping member and contactless pickup rollers,

Fig. 11 is a schematic view of the cash accepting mechanism moved to the maintenance position and exposing the cash accepting opening at the top of the ATM machine crate,

Fig. 12 is a schematic view of the cash acceptance mechanism removed for maintenance, as in Fig. 11, and with the first embodiment of the access door in the open position to allow access to unaccepted sheets that have been so determined by the operation of the accept mechanism cash,

Fig. 13 is a view of an ATM machine similar to Fig. 12, but with an alternative access mechanism for accessing unaccepted sheets,

Fig. 14 is another view of an ATM machine similar to Fig. 12, showing another alternative mechanism for accessing unaccepted sheets,

Fig. 15 is a schematic view of the cash acceptance mechanism with the first form of the maintenance plate shown in an open position for maintenance purposes,

Fig. 16 is a view of the cash acceptance mechanism similar to Fig. 15 but with an alternative form of maintenance plates shown in the access position,

Fig. 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the gutter to and from which sheet files are received and removed through the machine console, as well as containing devices for capturing and draining water that can enter the gutter,

Fig. 18 is an external isometric view of the cash acceptance mechanism shown in Fig. 17 and containing a schematic illustration of the drain used to guide the water collected in the chute outside the machine,

Fig. 19 is a schematic view showing the sealing system used in the embodiment to minimize the risk of dirt entering the machine through the opening in the machine console through which the gutter passes in the operating position of the cash acceptance mechanism.

EP 1 673 740 Β1

Fig. 20 is a transparent side view of an alternative form of mechanism for accepting and storing sheets of financial instruments that have been carried out by a cash accepting mechanism,

Fig. 21 is an isometric view of the container for storing financial instruments shown in Fig. 20 moved out of the machine,

Fig. 22 is a schematic view of a light emitting device that works to facilitate the machine's use by users,

Fig. 23 is an enlarged view of the light emitting device shown in Fig. 22,

Fig. 24 is a schematic view of the light emitting diodes contained in a light emitting device,

Fig. 25 is a cross-sectional view of a flexible web that includes diodes in a light emitting device,

Fig. 26 is an isometric view of the console shown in Fig. 1, and in particular the mirrors placed thereon which make it easier for the user to observe the area in their vicinity while operating the machine,

Fig. 27 is a schematic top view indicating the area seen by a user operating the machine,

Figures 28 to 30 are schematic views of an alternative embodiment of a mechanism for separating sheets from a file in which one or more collecting devices operate to change the orientation of the sheets relative to each other to facilitate gripping and separating the sheets.

Best ways to implement the invention [0035] Referring now to the drawings, and in particular to Fig. 1, there is shown a horizontal front view of an automatic banking machine, which in this embodiment is an automatic ATM machine ("ATM machine") 10. This ATM machine 10 is a machine located inside the wall comprising the console 12. The console 12 is accessible to machine users who are outside of the wall 14. In some embodiments, the wall 14 may be the outer wall of the building, while the ATM 10 may be used in a sidewalk or driveway environment. In other embodiments, the ATM machine may be used in an interior environment. Of course, this configuration is exemplary, and in other embodiments, other types of ATM machine configurations may be used.

[0036] An example ATM machine includes a user interface, generally indicated by reference numeral 15. This user interface according to this embodiment includes input devices for receiving input signals from users. These input devices include a card reader 16, a keyboard 18, function buttons 20 and an imaging device 22. In this embodiment, the input devices can be used to provide identifying input signals, such as card-readable markings, numerical data or biometric data that can be used to identify a specific machine user and / or his bills. In addition, the example input devices also operate to receive transactional input signals that cause the ATM machine to perform selected transactional functions. It should be understood that these input devices are exemplary, and in other embodiments other types of input devices may be used. The exemplary user interface 15 further includes output devices. These output devices in this embodiment include a display 24, a speaker 26 and a headphone jack 28. Such output devices

EP 1 673 740 według1 according to this embodiment operate to send signals, either visible or audible, or of two types that can be used to operate an ATM machine. Of course, the output devices shown in this user interface are exemplary, and other or additional output devices may be used in other embodiments.

[0037] This exemplary ATM machine 10 further includes other functional transaction devices. These functional transaction devices include a receipt printer 30 that operates to provide receipts to machine users. As illustrated in more detail in the internal view of the machine of Fig. 2, this receipt printer includes a paper supply tray 32 on which the receipts are printed by the printing mechanism 34. The printed receipts are then transported to the receipt hole in console 12, via the transport assembly 36. In the embodiments, the receipt printer may be of the type shown in US Patent No. 5,850,075. Of course, other types of receipt printers may be used in other embodiments.

[0038] An example ATM 10 machine includes on the console, as illustrated in Fig. 1, a cash dispensing opening 38 and a cash accepting opening 40. Each of these holes is in working connection with the respective functional transaction devices, as will be discussed later, and each of them has a gate mechanism assigned to it, which works to block access through the hole, except for the appropriate moments during transactions performed by authorized users. In this embodiment, the cash dispensing opening is depicted as controlled by gate 42, while the cash accepting opening is controlled by gate 44. It should be understood that the console and devices connected to the ATM 10 machine are exemplary, and other implementations may be used in other embodiments or different console and device configurations.

[0039] In this embodiment, the user interface of the machine includes a plurality of multi-colored light emitting devices 17, 31, 41, 43 and 45. Each of these light-emitting devices is located on the user interface at a location that corresponds to a particular functional transaction device. For example, the light-emitting device 17 is located adjacent to the card reader slot 16. Similarly, the light-emitting device 31 is located adjacent the slot for delivering receipts. Similarly, the light emitting device 41 is associated with the cash accepting hole 40, while the light emitting device 43 is associated with the cash dispensing opening 38. As explained later, in this embodiment, the multi-colored light emitting devices are activated selectively to send light of a certain color in response to the states of the associated transaction device. These features can be used to guide the user when operating the machine, to provide guidance on the status of devices, to warn the user about certain conditions, and to provide improved machine aesthetics. [0040] As illustrated in Figs. 2, 3 and 6, the ATM machine 10 includes a housing 46, which extends substantially on the inside of the wall 14. This housing 46 includes a chest portion 48. In this embodiment, this chest portion 48 is essentially a secured chest that has a door 50 similar to a safe. Access to the inside of this chest part is restricted to authorized personnel, through a suitable locking mechanism, schematically indicated as 52 (see Fig. 3). In this embodiment, the chest has a substantially L-shaped cross section.

[0041] The housing 46 further includes an upper portion 54. The upper housing portion 54 that is in connection with the console is in a support connection with the chest portion 48. In this example,

EP 1 673 740 -1, the upper part 54 of the crate has access door 56 and 58 connected to it. Access to the upper part of the crate is controlled by one or more locking mechanisms in operative connection with the access door 56 and 58, as shown in using locks 60 and 62. In this embodiment, the secured chest portion 48 is used to contain financial instrument sheets, such as check cash banknotes and other valuable sheets. The upper housing part 54 is generally used to contain machine components that do not store banknotes or other financial instrument documents for a long time that can be bought for some value. Of course, it should be understood that this ATM 10 machine design is exemplary, and other concepts may be used in other embodiments.

[0042] As illustrated schematically in Fig. 2, the ATM machine 10 includes at least one controller, schematically indicated as 64. In this embodiment, the controller 64 includes at least one processor and is in operational connection with at least one carrier data, indicated schematically as 66. In this embodiment, the data carrier operates to store data representing instructions, such as computer programs, configuration parameters, transaction data, and other information that may be useful for operating an ATM 10 machine. Computer-usable instructions, executed by one or more controllers, may be resident and / or loaded from articles suitable for storing such computer-usable instructions. Such articles may include hard disk drives, floppy disks, CD ROMs, PROMs, or other articles from which the computer can read and execute instructions.

[0043] The controller 64 is operatively connected to a plurality of functional transaction devices within the ATM machine and also controls their operation according to its software. The controller 64 has been schematically illustrated in working connection with devices 68, 70 and 72. It should be understood that this illustration is only schematic and is intended to represent the numerous components inside the machine that are in working connection with the controller. For example, functional transactional devices may include displacement devices, which may alternatively be referred to herein as drives, such as motors, soienoids, and other devices that displace components. Similarly, functional transaction devices may include sensors such as radiation sensors, proximity sensors, switches and other types of sensors that detect objects, users, states, properties, characteristics or components inside an ATM machine and allow the controller to perform functions according to its software. Functional transaction devices include output devices such as speakers and light emitting devices. For example, and without imposing any restrictions on it, functional transaction devices may include a card reader, display, keyboard, function buttons, printer, cash dispensing unit, cash accepting unit, storage mechanisms and other devices previously discussed, as well as other devices within machines that operate in response to the controller.

[0044] In the embodiment, the controller is also in working connection with the communication device, schematically indicated as 74. This communication device operates to transmit messages electronically between the ATM 10 machine and other computers in processing systems

EP 1 673 740 Β1 financial transactions. For example, this may include communication with systems supported by banks, credit card networks, automatic accounting units and other units. In Fig. 2, communication device 74 in ATM 10 is schematically illustrated as ensuring communication with financial institution 76 via network 78. It should be understood that this communication configuration is exemplary and other communication systems may be used in other embodiments. US 6,505,177 also provides an exemplary communication system for an ATM machine, and the disclosure provided herein is referenced herein. Embodiments may include features of US Patent Nos. 6,705,517; 6 672 505 and / or 6 598 023.

[0045] As illustrated in Figs. 2 and 6, in the operational position of the ATM machine 10, the housing 46 houses a sheet receiving mechanism 80, which is also mentioned herein as a cash receiving mechanism. In the embodiment, the mechanism 80 operates to accept sheets received from the machine user through the opening 40, analyze each sheet for at least one property or feature, and also guide the sheets selectively for storage within the machine housing, according to the feature being analyzed. It should be understood that in various embodiments, these sheets may include cash banknotes, checks and other sheets of financial instruments. It should further be understood that in embodiments, the sheets of financial documents may be sheets composed of various types of materials such as paper, plastic or a combination thereof. It should also be understood that the references made in this document to the cash-accepting mechanism should be considered mechanisms that handle not only cash banknotes but also other sheets of financial documents, such as checks, money orders, gift certificates, vouchers, etc.

[0046] As illustrated in Fig. 2, the cash accepting mechanism 80 includes a chute 82 that extends through the opening 40 in the console 15 in its operative condition. As discussed previously, the user-accessible gutter opening 82 is controlled by movable gate 44. Gate 44 moves in response to controller 64 and allows authorized users to access the gutter at appropriate times during the transaction sequence.

[0047] During the operation of the machine, users can insert a file of financial document sheets schematically indicated as 84 into the gutter. File 84 may contain cash banknotes, checks, and other forms of financial document sheets.

[0048] During operation of the cash acceptance mechanism, the sheets are individually separated from the file by the gripping mechanism 86, an embodiment of which will be discussed in detail below. Each captured sheet is transported individually from the gripping mechanism outside the validation device schematically indicated as 88. This validation device 88 according to an embodiment works to define at least one feature of each sheet. This may include, for example, whether the sheet is a banknote or a check, and if it is a banknote - its denomination and whether it is valid. If the document is a check, it can be determined whether the check is original, as well as markings associated with the marker on the check and its amount. For example, in some embodiments, the validity checking device may be of the type shown in US Patent No. 5,923,415.

[0049] Alternatively or additionally, a validity checking device having the features disclosed in US Patent 6,554 185 may be used. Of course, other types of validation devices such as imaging devices, readers, may be used in other embodiments.

EP 1 673 740 Β1 sensors and their combinations. For example, in some embodiments, the sheet-accepting device may operate to depict instruments such as checks and provide data that can be stored and sent as an electronic reproduction of such a check. In such circumstances, electronic reproduction of the check may be sent to remote locations to facilitate viewing and checking the validity of the check. Alternatively or additionally, the electronic presentation of a check can serve as a substitute for a physical paper check, but later allows the cancellation of the paper check and its subsequent destruction.

[0050] In an embodiment of the cash accepting mechanism 80, the sheets analyzed by the validity check device 88 are moved by the transport unit 90 to the guide device 92. This guide device operates in response to the operation of the controller 64 and guides the sheets selectively either to the deposit device 94 or to transport assembly 96. Deposit device 94 generally operates such that it temporarily stores sheets in a tray. Such deposit devices may be of the type set out in US Patent 6,371,368.

[0051] The deposit device 94 may operate in such a way that it accepts the sheets and stores them. Then, in response to the operation of the controller 64, the deposit device may supply these sheets to the guide device 92, which guides them along the paths of the sheets in the machine for transaction. Of course, it should be understood that the deposit device depicted herein is exemplary, and other types of deposit device may be used in other embodiments.

[0052] In an embodiment, the transport assembly 96 is used to receive non-approved sheets having features that do not meet certain parameters set by the machine. This may include, for example, banknotes that have one or more features suggesting that they have been counterfeit. In other embodiments, such sheets may include checks that have properties that suggest that they are reproductions or are counterfeit or otherwise unacceptable. Of course, in other embodiments, other sheets may be considered unacceptable. As shown schematically in Fig. 2, the sheet-accepting mechanism 80 operates to cause the transport assembly to deposit 96 suspicious sheets, schematically indicated as 98, in the storage area 100. In this embodiment, suspicious sheets are stored inside the cash accepting mechanism and outside the secured chamber so that they can be recovered by service personnel in a way that will be discussed further. Of course, this concept is exemplary, and other concepts may be used in other embodiments.

[0053] In an embodiment, the cash accepting mechanism 80 operates in response to signals from the controller 64 and causes financial instrument sheets that are designated as valid or otherwise acceptable to be directed through the cash accepting hole 102 that extends in the upper surface of the chest 104. In the operating position of the cash acceptance mechanism shown in Fig. 2, the transport assembly in the cash accepting mechanism is aligned with the cash accepting opening and the transport assembly 108 that extends inside the secured box. As shown schematically in Fig. 2, in the operating position of the cash accepting mechanism 80, at least one drive member 110 of the transport assembly 106 is in operative connection with the driven member 112 of the transport assembly 108. In this embodiment, this allows the transfer of movement through the cash accepting mechanism to ob13

ΕΡ 1 673 740 Β1 sheets servicing mechanisms, located inside a secured crate and ensuring coordinated movement of processed sheets inside. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the driving and driven members run in the cash-accepting opening in such a way as to block access through this opening to unauthorized persons, as will be discussed later.

[0054] In an embodiment, when the cash accepting mechanism is moved from the operating position shown in Fig. 2 to the maintenance position, as shown in Figs. 12, 13 and 14, the drive member 110 and the drive member 112 are disengaged. In some embodiments, moving the cash accepting mechanism from the operating position to the maintenance position may include movably mounting the cash accepting mechanism in such a way that the mechanism moves both upward from the secured box in such a way that it disengages the driving and driven members, as well as outside for maintenance. Of course, to bring the cash-accepting mechanism back to its working position, it is displaced both inwards and downwards in such a way as to reconnect the driving and driven members. This can be done using a combination of sliders, rollers or other suitable mechanisms. Of course, the concept of providing coupling between the cash accepting mechanism and the mechanism for handling the sheets inside the chest portion described herein is exemplary, and in other embodiments other concepts may be used, or the transport assembly within the chest portion may have a separate engine or other moving device. As illustrated in Fig. 2, the transport assembly 108, which displaces the sheets substantially vertically through the cash-accepting opening, is in operative connection with the horizontal transport assembly, schematically indicated as 114. The horizontal transport assembly acts to couple the sheets moved into the chest portion and to move them transversely to the cash-accepting hole. The horizontally extending conveyor assembly 114 is in operative connection with the vertically extending conveyor assembly 116 which is positioned transversely to the cash-accepting opening in the secure box.

[0055] The vertical transport assembly 116 operates to move the sheets selectively for engagement with the sheet handling mechanisms 118, 120, 122 and 124. In some embodiments, the sheet handling mechanisms 118, 120,122 and 124 may be sheet stacking mechanisms such as schematically shown in Figs. 5 and 6. Alternatively or additionally, in other embodiments, one or more sheet handling mechanisms may include sheet receiving and dispensing mechanisms that operate to selectively accept sheets into a tray as well as dispense sheets from there. Examples of mechanisms for accepting and stacking sheets, as well as mechanisms for accepting, stacking and dispensing, which can be used in some embodiments, are described in detail in US Patent Nos. 6,302,393 and 6,292,070.

[0056] As illustrated schematically in Fig. 4, the exemplary sheet-accepting and stacking mechanism 118 operates selectively to accept sheet 126 traveling in vertical transport assembly 116. Sheet 126 is engaged to engage with the sheet handling mechanism 118, by moving the gate member 128. This gate member moves in response to the operation of the controller 64 and guides the leading edge of the sheet to the recess 130 of the rotary member 132. When the leading edge of the sheet 126 enters the recess 130, the rotating member 132 rotates in the direction of arrow R. This causes the part gripper 134 surrounding za14

EP 1 673 740 Β1, the recess 130 moves inward, gripping the sheet 126 with it. The rotary member 132 rotates until the leading edge of the sheet 126 engages with the abutment surface 136, when the gripper portion 134 has moved radially outwardly, that the sheet is decoupled from the rotary member 132 and is included in the 138-sheet file. The file 138 may be, for example, a file of cash banknotes, all of which have the same denomination. Of course, in other embodiments, the file 138 may be a collection of other types of sheets.

[0057] In an embodiment, the file is maintained in relation to the rotary member by means of a biasing plate 140 that acts on the back of the file. This deflector plate 140 can move in response to the action of the deflector mechanism 142, which operates to allow the file to be increased or decreased while keeping the sheets in a roughly aligned position. Further details related to the embodiment of the servicing mechanism sheets have been described in the disclosure of US Patent No. 6,302,393.

[0058] Fig. 5 further illustrates an exemplary operation of exemplary mechanisms for handling sheets 118 and 120. In this case, the sheet 142 moving in the transport assembly 116 may pass the rotary member 132 when the gate member 128 remains retracted as the sheet passes. This allows the sheet to be moved to other sheet handling mechanisms, such as sheet handling mechanism 120. This arrangement allows sheets with specific characteristics to be collected together, for example, important cash banknotes of various denominations, which are collected in a file relationship in selected areas of the sheet feeders. Alternatively, in other embodiments, sheets of a similar type, such as checks, may be segregated from other sheets of financial documents, such as banknotes or travelers checks. In yet other embodiments, sheets that can be reused, such as those having the appropriate characteristics, can be separated from valid but worn or dirty banknotes that are not suitable for delivery to customers. It should be understood that these concepts are exemplary, and other concepts may be used in other embodiments.

[0059] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 2, the security plate 144 extends inside the secure box, in an intermediate relationship between the horizontal transport unit 114 and the banknote storage mechanism, such as the storage area 146 connected to the sheet handling mechanism 118. Such a security plate 144 in this embodiment is mounted inside the secured chest and is adapted to prevent unauthorized access through a cash accepting opening 102 in the chest. This can be done by attaching the securing plate 144 to the walls surrounding the inside of the secured box and other structures suitable for this purpose. As can be seen, because in this embodiment the upper part 54 of the crate houses the sheet-accepting mechanism 80, it is generally easier to access the area containing the sheet-accepting mechanism than to the secured crate. In cases where criminals can attack the ATM 10 machine and attempt to remove the sheet-accepting mechanism, the easy access through the cash-accepting hole is first blocked by the driving and driven members and other components of the transport units 106 and 108. However, when criminals attempt to remove components of the transport mechanism from the road, access to stored sheets in the sheet-containing mechanisms is still blocked by a tamper evident plate. Fig. 11 illustrates the cash-accepting mechanism 180 in more detail,

ΕΡ 1 673 740 Β1 which has been withdrawn to the maintenance position in such a way as to expose the cash receiving hole. In this embodiment, the cash-accepting mechanism is movable in a supportive connection with the chest portion via appropriate sliders or other members. As can be deduced, in this embodiment, the security plate 144 operates in such a way that it separates the cash-accepting opening 102 from banknotes or other valuable sheets of financial instruments that are stored below the security plate in a secured chest. Of course, the security plate is exemplary and other forms of security plate or structure may be used.

[0060] In an alternative embodiment, the ATM machine comprises a collecting reservoir container 260, shown in Fig. 20, for storing cash banknotes, banknotes, checks and other items that have been deposited in the machine. This container 260 includes an upper wall 262 with an opening 264 that corresponds to the opening 102 in the crate when the container 260 is in the operating position. The container 260 includes a transport assembly 266 for transporting objects that pass through the opening 264 to the inner area 268 of the container. The horizontal transport assembly 270 operates to move deposited items transversely from the opening 264. The security plate 272 is positioned so that it reduces the risk of unauthorized access to the internal area 268. Another transport assembly 274 operates to move deposit items, such as cash sheets 276, to a suitable location for transfer to internal area 268 below the security plate. The deposited items, schematically depicted as 278, are stored in the inner area of ​​the container 260.

[0061] In an embodiment, the container 260 includes a bottom wall 280. The inner area 268 is delimited by a shaking member 282 which is arranged vertically above the bottom wall. In this embodiment, the shaking member comprises a resilient flexible membrane 284. The rigid plate 286 extends in a positioning relationship below the central portion of the membrane. Flexible brackets 288 support this rigid plate 286 above bottom wall 280. These flexible brackets also allow the rigid plate and membrane to move relative to the bottom wall. In embodiments, the rigid supports 288 may include springs or other members that allow relative vertical and / or horizontal displacement of the bottom wall and the rigid plate.

[0062] In an embodiment, the actuator 290 extends in an intermediate relationship between the bottom wall and the rigid plate. In embodiments, the actuator is an electric vibrating device that acts to shake the rigid plate and the membrane thereon. This shaking action of the actuator 290 acts to impart shaking movement to deposited items 278 that are in a support connection with this membrane. This facilitates the dispersion and deposition of deposited items, and also allows the collection of a relatively large number of such items in internal area 268 before such items need to be removed. In this embodiment, the actuator 290 is electrically connected to the circuit inside the machine via a detachable connector 292. This facilitates the removal of an exemplary container, as discussed later in this document. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the mobile devices for the transport assemblies within the container can be fed by signals and / or electricity through this detachable connector.

EP 1 673 740 Β1 [0063] During the operation of the machine, the inner area 268 of the container 260 is in operative connection with the opening 38 in the machine housing through which opening deposited items are accepted. These deposited items are carried out by a mechanism that accepts cash or another mechanism to handle such documents. Items suitable for being deposited in the container are passed through the opening 102 in the upper part of the chest. Such items are transported by transport assemblies 266, 270 and 274 to the area below the security plate 272 and collected in the internal area 268. Periodically, in response to the operation of the controller, the actuator 290 operates to shake the deposited items 278 in the internal area. This makes it easier for settling objects to densely pack objects inside. Sensors 294 may be introduced into the interior to detect deposited items. The controller may operate to cause the actuator to shake deposited items in response to sensors detecting the level of such items. Alternatively, the controller may operate to shake deposited items according to the elapsed time, the number of deposited items or according to another programmed rule. In an embodiment, the sensors 294 may be in operational connection with the controller through a detachable connector 292.

[0064] An exemplary container 260 may be mounted inside a removable secure box. This exemplary container is supported on rolling brackets 296. These rolling brackets 296 may be wheels, wheels, ball tracks, or other objects that allow easy movement of the container in the loaded state. In the embodiment, after opening the secure crate, the container 260 can be moved out of the crate. This is facilitated by the fact that the operator grabs the handle 298 which is attached to the container. The detachable connector 292 can be disengaged so that the container 260 can be pulled out of the secure box. As shown in more detail in Fig. 21, in this embodiment, the handle 298 is a telescopic handle that can be moved up when the handle has moved away from the secured box. This makes it easier to remove the container outside the ATM machine. The container can then be moved to a suitable location by means of a handle, further from the ATM machine, to remove its contents. This can be, for example, an area inside a vault or other secured room in which objects inside the container can be further processed.

[0065] As illustrated in Fig. 21, the container 260 in the embodiment includes a door 300. Access to the door 300 is controlled by one or more locks shown as 302. In this embodiment, the door 300 is shown hinged sideways in towards the chest door in such a way as to reduce the risk of unauthorized persons gaining access to the inside of the container when the container is inside the machine. When the container has been moved to the right place, the lock 302 can be unlocked, the door open, and the deposited items can be removed. After the objects are removed, the door 300 can return to the closed position. The container can then be re-installed in the machine, with the handle 298 retracted to allow the container to re-align with the opening 102. Furthermore, the detachable connector 292 can be re-connected to allow the container to operate again within the machine.

EP 1 673 740 Β1 [0066] As can be deduced, this exemplary container 260 can store a significant amount of deposited items. What's more, the design including rolling brackets and telescopic handle makes it easy to move the loaded container from the ATM machine and to the ATM machine. It should be understood that such a container is exemplary, and other concepts may be used in other embodiments. These may include, for example, and without imposing any restrictions on it, containers having a plurality of internal areas in which the deposited items are supported on the shaking members. In such embodiments, it is possible to obtain, for example, the separation of deposited banknotes, checks and / or envelopes according to the denomination or type of deposit, and also to obtain a more densely packed container within a certain internal compartment within the container. Additionally or alternatively, in other embodiments, the shaking members can be used on the side walls or on the top walls surrounding the container to facilitate shaking of deposited items and their packing and storage. Additionally or alternatively, the containers may be used in some embodiments in conjunction with sheet handling mechanisms, so that certain sheets are stored precisely arranged in the containers for storage and / or reuse, while other sheets are stored collectively inside the container or compartment inside the container. These alternative concepts are included in the disclosure of the present invention.

[0067] Figs. 7 to 10 schematically illustrate the first embodiment of the gripping mechanism 86 used in the cash accepting mechanism 80. In this embodiment, the stack of sheets 84 is located in the chute 82 and is in a support connection with substantially angular bottom surfaces 148. Movable members 150 and 152 operate to engage the file and selectively rotate in response to an engine or other drive mechanism in the direction of the arrow P in such a way as to move the file to a relationship substantially abutting the engagement surface 154. In the vicinity coupling surface 154, a loose roller 156 is located near the bottom surface 148, which in this embodiment is a substantially free-rotating roller. The coupling of the file 84, the coupling surfaces 154 and the surface of the roller 156 operates essentially such that it spreads the sheets as shown.

[0068] The gripping mechanism 86 further includes a substantially cylindrical gripping member 158. This gripping member 158 can be selectively rotatable by means of a motor or other drive member in response to the operation of the controller 64. The gripping member rotates in the direction indicated by the arrow P during the gripping operation. as illustrated. The gripping member 158 further includes high-friction arcuate segments 160, which in this embodiment serve as coupling parts of the sheets and extend over part of the periphery of the gripping member.

[0069] The gripping mechanism 86 of this embodiment further includes a plurality of rollers 162 that serve as contactless pickup rollers in a manner that will be discussed below. The gripping mechanism further includes a contact pickup roller 164 that deflectively engages the high friction segments 160 of the gripping member.

[0070] As illustrated in Fig. 8, the gripping member is a substantially cylindrical member that includes a plurality of annular wells 166. The outer surface of the contactless pickup rollers 162 extends into the respective annular well 166, but they are not substantially with it in the collection coupling. As illustrated in the embodiment of Fig. 8, external

EP 1 673 740 Β1 the surface of the contactless pickup rollers 162 is slightly offset from the base of the annular recess. As a result, the outer surface of the contactless pickup rollers serving as the first pickup portion is not positioned so that it is in direct contact collecting pickup with the gripping member. However, due to the fact that the surface of such rollers is located in close proximity to them and substantially allows only a single sheet to pass between the gripping member and the contactless pickup rollers, a separation of the single sheet from the other sheets is achieved. It should be understood, however, that although in this embodiment the contactless pickup rollers are located a short distance from the gripping member, in other embodiments such rollers or other picking members may operate in such a way that they are actually in contact with the gripping member but may have such an elastic consistency or properties that these rollers are not deflected in contact collector coupling as in the case of contact collector roller 164. [0071] As shown in Fig. 8, the contact pickup roller is pivoted to engage the sheets engaging middle portion 168 of the gripping member. This sheet engaging central portion is generally centered relative to the sheets that are moved by the gripping mechanism 86. Thus, the tendency of the sheets to twist or warp when they are moved in the gripping mechanism is reduced. Of course, it should be understood that this arrangement is exemplary and other concepts may be used in other embodiments.

[0072] The operation of the exemplary gripping mechanism 86 is illustrated in Figs. 9 and 10. This gripping mechanism operates such that it separates the sheet individually from the file 84. This is done by sequentially gripping the first sheet 170 which limits the end of the file when moving it. first sheet in the first direction generally indicated by arrow F in such a way as to offset this sheet from the file. To accomplish this, the controller 64 actuates one or more drives, such as motors and other actuating mechanisms, to cause the movable member 150 and 152 to rotate when the gripping mechanism 158 likewise rotates counterclockwise as it has been presented. The rotation of the gripping member causes the high-friction arcuate segments 160, which serve as coupling parts of the sheets, to engage the bottom surface of the first sheet and pull the sheet in an intermediate relationship between the gripping member and the contactless pickup rollers 162. When the first sheet is moved, the loose roll 156 it rotates to facilitate the movement of the first sheet between the gripping member and the contactless collecting collars.

[0073] The contactless pickup rollers 162 according to this embodiment are in operating connection with the backstop 172 in such a way that the first pickup rollers remain stationary when the first sheet is engaged with them and moves in the direction of arrow F. Because the resistance force provided by the contactless pickup rollers acting on the surface of the sheet coupled therewith is less than the displacement force acting on the opposite surface of the sheet, the first sheet 170 is moved to an intermediate position relationship between the gripping member and the contactless pickup rollers. This causes the sheet to adopt a wavy cross-sectional configuration, as illustrated in Fig. 10. This is caused by deformation of the sheet by contactless pickup rollers for annular recesses 166 of the gripping member. This wavy configuration of the cross section essentially works in conjunction with the opposite force with which they operate

EP 1 673 740 -1 contactless pickup rollers, in such a way that it separates the first sheet from other sheets that can move with it from the file.

[0074] When the first sheet 170 moves further in the direction indicated by arrow F, as illustrated in Fig. 9, the leading edge of the sheet is then coupled to the contact pickup roller 164, which is pivoted to engage the engaging parts of the gripping member. The contact pickup roller according to this embodiment is also in working connection with the backstop 174 in such an embodiment that in this embodiment the contact pickup roller remains stationary while the first sheet moves in the direction indicated by the arrow F. This coupling of the contact pickup roller and the first sheet operates to displace the contact pickup roller in such a way as to allow the sheet 170 to move in an intermediate relationship between the contact pickup roller and the center coupling portion 168. The resistance force of the contactless pickup roller operates essentially such that separates any sheets other than the first sheet 170 from moving in the direction of arrow F.

[0075] As illustrated in Fig. 9, the sensor 176 is located adjacent to the contact pickup roller in this embodiment. The sensor 176 operates to detect the presence of overlapping double sheets in the vicinity of the sensor that may have passed the contactless and contact pickup rollers. Suitable sensors in some embodiments may be the sensors shown in patents US 6,241,244 and US 6,242,733.

[0076] After detecting a double or other multiple of sheets, the machine controller may make additional efforts to collect the sheet, as discussed below. However, in the case where only one sheet is detected, the gripping member 158 continues to move in an anti-clockwise direction until the leading edge of the sheet reaches the take-up rollers 178. In this embodiment, the take-up rollers operate to engage the sheet and move the sheet in the cash acceptance mechanism towards the validation device 88. In this embodiment, one rotation of the gripping member operates substantially such that it separates one sheet from the file.

[0077] In the event that the sensor 176 detects that overlapping double sheets or another multiple of sheets has been able to pass through the contact and contactless pickup rollers, the controller according to this embodiment operates to stop movement of the gripping member 158 in the opposite direction. clockwise as shown before the first sheet 170 is decoupled from it. Then, the controller operates to reverse the direction of the gripping member 158 and the movable members 150 and 152 so as to move the first sheet back to the file. Due to the operation of backstops 172 and 174, the contact pickup roller 164 and contactless pickup rollers 162 can rotate counterclockwise as shown to facilitate the return of the sheets to the file. The controller may then activate the gripping mechanism 86 so that it again makes an attempt to capture a single banknote. Repeated attempts can be made until a single sheet is separated from the file so that it can be handled by the cash acceptance mechanism.

[0078] This embodiment of the gripping mechanism 86 has been found to be well suited for separating various types of financial instrument sheets having different properties. Basically, sheets such as cash banknotes that are new or other types of sheets that have substantially consistent stiffness and friction properties for a given sheet are separated by the mechanism

ΕΡ 1 673 740 Β1 gripping and contactless pickup rollers. Nevertheless, in situations where the stiffness and friction properties differ substantially between individual sheets, a contact scraper roller, which then couples the sheets after they have been strung by contactless scraper rollers, is effective for separating sheets that otherwise would not be separated. This can be particularly helpful, for example, when processing sheets, which may include plastic banknotes, cash banknotes, checks or other documents that have significantly different properties and which are mixed together in a file from which sheets must be picked individually . [0079] In some alternative embodiments, some additional features may be included to assist in facilitating sheet handling. This may include, for example, the requirement to selectively drive the pickup rollers or other members so as to move a multiple of the sheets that were initially able to pass the pickup members relative to each other. This change of orientation can make it easier to separate the sheets during subsequent capture attempts.

[0080] Figs. 28 to 30 schematically show an alternative gripping mechanism 350. This gripping mechanism 350 may be of the type discussed previously which includes one or more contactless pickup rollers and contact pickup rollers, or other type of arrangement. For the purpose of simplifying and simplifying the explanation, the mechanism 350 is schematically illustrated as a mechanism comprising a gripping member 352 and a collecting member 354. In this embodiment, the gripping member and the collecting member are cylindrical members, but of course other types and configurations of the members may be used in other embodiments.

[0081] To illustrate the problem that may be encountered by the gripping mechanism, a number of sheets 356 are shown engaged with the gripping member. As will be understood from the foregoing discussion, sheets 356 may be part of a sheet of user input into the ATM machine. As schematically illustrated in Fig. 28, sheet 358, which limits the bottom end of the file and is normally a sheet that is gripped therefrom, has its leading edge retracted relative to the direction in which the sheets move when gripping relative to the sheet 360 located above it. As can be deduced, as the sheets approach the gripping and collecting members in this orientation, it becomes more difficult to grip the sheet 358 one at a time because its leading edge is retracted relative to the other sheets. As a result, when the gripping member 352 is driven in the gripping direction indicated by arrow J in response to the action of one or more connected drives 362, the collecting member 354 remains stationary. Nevertheless, the high-friction segment 364 may engage the area of ​​the above sheet 360 that is exposed to its operation because it is pushed past the sheet 358 in the forward direction indicated by the arrow K in which the sheets move when being picked from the file. As a result, both sheets 358 and 360 are moved together from the file.

[0082] As the sheets 358 and 360 move together, their leading edges eventually reach near the sensor 366, as illustrated in Fig. 29. The sensor 366 may be one of the types discussed previously that work by detecting the thickness of the sheet and in combination with one or more controllers operate to detect states in which a certain multiple of overlapping sheets is detected. As with the previous embodiment, when a certain multiple of the sheets are detected displaced from the file, the gripping member 352 is no longer moved to move the sheets in the gripping direction.

EP 1 673 740 Β1 [0083] After detecting a multiple of sheets in the vicinity of the sensor 366, the controller according to an alternative embodiment activates the drive 362 so as to reverse the direction of operation of the gripping member 352, compared to the situation of gripping sheets from a file. As shown in Fig. thirty and discussed in connection with the previously described embodiment, reversing the direction of operation of the gripping member causes it to move the captured sheets back to the file. This was indicated by the arrow L in Fig. 30. Nevertheless, in this alternative embodiment, the collecting member 354 is driven in response to the drive 368 in a rotational direction to push the sheets 360 and 358 and move them back toward the file. Furthermore, in this embodiment, one or more controllers operate controlling drives 368 and / or 362 in such a way that the sheet 360 in direct engagement with the collecting member 354 is moved relative to the sheet 358. In this embodiment, the sheet 360 is preferably moved such that its leading edge is no longer moved in the grasping direction from the leading edge of the sheet 358 which limits the bottom end of the file. In this way, when both sheets have been withdrawn from the collecting members, one or more further attempts to move the sheets in the gripping direction will cause the sheet 358 to be separated from the other sheets individually.

[0084] Several concepts can be used to move the sheet 360 that is engaged with the collecting member with respect to the sheet 358 which is in engagement with the gripping member. Basically, such concepts require that the sheet 358 be pushed through the action of the collecting member and moved a greater distance than the distance the sheet 358 is moved back towards the file. This can be achieved, for example, by causing the drive 368 to rotate the pickup roller 354 counterclockwise, while both the gripping member 352 and the sheet 358 coupled therewith are held still. This can be used to start moving the sheet 360 in the direction of the arrow L without moving the sheet 358. In some embodiments, the controller in operative connection with the sensor 366 may detect that the sheet 360 has been displaced. This can be done by detecting that the pickup roller 354 begins to move, and the sheet thickness that is detected near the sensor varies from the thickness of the multiple of sheets to the thickness of a single sheet. This can be used to verify that sheet 360 has moved relative to sheet 358. Then the controller can start operating the gripping member 352 in such a way that it begins to move the sheet 358 back towards the file.

[0085] It should be understood that in some embodiments, the pickup roller can begin to move the upstream sheet coupled to it before any movement to retract the upstream sheet in engagement with the gripping member. Alternatively, in some embodiments, both the collecting member and the gripping member may move to begin retracting multiple sheets, and the gripping member may stop once or repeatedly during the retraction process to facilitate the withdrawal of the above-up sheet 360. Such periodic stopping and starting may facilitate relative movement of the sheets. Of course, as can be deduced, this movement will cause the above-mentioned sheet 360 to move back to the file a greater distance than the underlying sheet 358, and thus change the relative orientation of the sheets.

ΕΡ 1 673 740 Β1 [0086] In alternative embodiments, from the position illustrated in Fig. 29, both the gripping member and the collecting members can move simultaneously to cause the sheets to retract. Nevertheless, the collecting members can move so as to push the sheet 360 and move at a higher speed than the sheet 358 below. In such embodiments, the above sheet 360 will be pushed and moved over a greater distance, due to the relatively faster operating speed of the collecting member 354. Such a higher velocity movement essentially causes the sheet 360 to move a greater distance than the sheet 358, and thereby, the orientation of the leading edge of the sheet is changed in such a way that it is no longer displaced in the gripping direction relative to sheet 358. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, both the gripping member and the collecting members may move backwards in relation to the file, but the collecting member may operate to push the sheets and move back toward the file for a long time. In this case, too, this action displaces the above sheet or sheets relative to the below sheet in the file, thereby changing the orientation of the sheets.

[0087] As can be deduced, in some reaiization examples, movable members, such as rollers 150, 152 described in connection with the previous embodiment, may also be driven in response to the action of one or more drives in operative connection with the controller. This controller can handle such movable members when the sheets are retracted into a file to coordinate their speed to match the speed of the gripping member. As a result, by moving the movable members at the same or slightly lower speed than the gripping member, the risk is that the file restraining sheet 358 will be moved so that its leading edge will be retracted relative to the sheet above it. Similarly, when further attempts are made to separate the sheets by moving the gripping member in the gripping direction, the movable members that are underneath the sheet 358 may push and displace this sheet at the same speed or slightly faster than the gripping member, pushing the sheet 358 to make changes of orientation in such a way that the sheets above it are not removed from the file together with the file bounding sheet.

[0088] Of course, it should be understood that these concepts are exemplary, and in other embodiments, other concepts may be used to change the orientation of the relative positions of the sheets in such a way as to facilitate their gripping one at a time from a file so that individual sheets can be moved and handled by machine. Furthermore, it should be understood that, although the exemplary alternative gripping mechanism 350 is only a single collecting member, the described basic features can be used for many collecting members. Such collector members may include both contact and non-contact collector as previously discussed. In some alternative embodiments where multiple collecting members are used, controlled movement of the collecting members in such a way as to cause relative movement of the sheets can be used for both contact and contactless collecting rollers, or only for rollers selected from among them. For example, in some embodiments as previously described, the contact pickup rollers can operate by using a one-way clutch, while the contactless pickup rollers can be driven to change the relative position of the sheets. Furthermore, in some alternative embodiments, the relative displacement may be slow

EP 1 673 740 -1 fed by a directional roller such as roika 156, which can in some embodiments be used to perform at least part of the function of a collector. Additional sensors can also be used in some embodiments to assist in determining whether the desired relative displacement of overlapping sheets has been achieved. Of course, these concepts are exemplary, and other concepts may be used in other embodiments.

[0089] It will be understood that while the gripping rollers and cylindrical members are used in this embodiment, other gripping and collecting structures such as belts, pads, fingers and other members may be used in other embodiments.

[0090] An embodiment of the ATM 10 machine comprises a machine passing through the building wall in which the console is exposed to atmospheric agents. As a result, rain and snow can affect the console, and in the absence of appropriate measures, can get inside the machine. As can be deduced, the cash-accepting opening 40 in the console must be large enough to receive the chute 82, which stores the file 84, as discussed earlier. During the transaction, when an authorized user indicates that he wishes to enter a sheet file into the gutter, the gate 44 must be opened, thereby exposing the gutter to atmospheric agents.

[0091] To minimize the risk posed by rain and snow for the cash accepting mechanism 80, this embodiment has the ability to capture and direct moisture away from the machine that can get into the chute. The concept used in this embodiment is illustrated in Figs. 17 to 19. As illustrated in Fig. 17, the bottom surface of the gutter 148 includes at least one water receiving hole 180 formed therein. In this embodiment, the water-receiving opening comprises one or more trays extending transversely to the bottom surface of the sheet. Of course, other concepts may be used in other embodiments. The fluid-receiving openings remain in fluid communication with the conduit schematically illustrated as 182, which is in fluid communication with the drain 184 leading the water outside the ATM machine. As illustrated in Fig. 18 and 19, the tray 180 is in operating connection with a fluid coupling 184 that connects to the generally flexible fluid conduit 182, such as a tube. This conduit 182 connects to drain 184, which in this embodiment includes a recess at the bottom of the console, and also includes holes through which water can drain outside the machine housing.

[0092] In an embodiment, the tubular support 186 is positioned to control the direction of the tube and to provide drainage when the cash accepting mechanism is in the operating position as well as when the cash accepting mechanism is in the maintenance position as it was illustrated in Fig. 12. In this embodiment, the tubular support minimizes the risk of the fluid pipe waving or otherwise assuming a position that prevents drainage of water from inside the gutter outside the machine. However, it should be understood that the concept presented herein is exemplary, and other concepts may be used in other embodiments.

[0093] In the embodiment, the condition is made to minimize the risk of moisture entering the ATM machine in the area of ​​the cash accepting hole through which the gutter 82 in the operating position of the cash accepting mechanism 80 extends. As shown in Figs. 18 and 19, in the example In implementation, the elastic seal 188 extends in a surrounding relationship with the gutter 82 in an area adjacent to the console. The spring gasket is supported on the front surface of the accept mechanism24

EP 1 673 740 Β1 making cash. As shown in Fig. 19, when the cash accepting mechanism 80 is positioned such that the chute extends through the cash accepting opening 40 in the console, the elastic seal is positioned in a fluid-tight sandwich sandwich relationship between the front surface of the cash accepting mechanism and the inner surface of the console . Due to the fact that the seal provided by the gasket is in relation to the gutter surrounding, the risk of moisture or other impurities entering the ATM machine through the cash-accepting hole is minimized. Of course, it should be understood that this concept is exemplary, and other concepts may be used in other embodiments.

[0094] As discussed with reference to Fig. 2, the cash accepting mechanism 80, in response to the validity check device 88 and the controller 64, determines at least one feature indicating whether financial document sheets are machine acceptable. In this embodiment, the unaccepted sheets may be suspicious sheets, such as potentially counterfeit notes, invalid checks or other unacceptable documents. When such documents are detected, they are directed to the storage area 100, which in this embodiment is located inside the cash accepting mechanism and outside the chest portion. Periodically, such unaccepted sheets must be recovered by service personnel to either check the invalidity of the sheets or to trace the sheets to the user who placed them on the machine. In this embodiment, such sheets are recoverable by authorized persons who have access to the upper part 54 of the housing but may be prevented from accessing the chest 48 in which the documents identified as valid are stored.

[0095] In an embodiment, access to the storage area 100 is controlled by an appropriate access device. In one embodiment of such an access device, shown in Fig. 12, an opening 190 is provided for the reservoir area 100. Access to this opening is controlled by a falling access door 192. In some embodiments, these falling access doors 192 can only be opened when the cash accepting mechanism 80 has been moved back to slide out of the housing after the access door 58 has been opened. In some embodiments, the falling access doors may be provided with locking mechanism 194, such as a lock or other suitable locking mechanism. As a result, in this embodiment, in order to gain access to the sheets in the storage area 100, the user may be required to have the appropriate capabilities in the form of keys, combinations or other to unlock both the lock 62 on the access door 58 and the lock 194 door 192 falling down to access the sheets. It should be understood, however, that although in the embodiment shown here, the cash acceptance mechanism 180 has been depicted as being withdrawn from the machine to facilitate the opening of the falling door and removal of sheets, in other embodiments, the falling door can be dimensioned, segmented or otherwise adjusted so that it may not be necessary to withdraw the cash acceptance mechanism from its working position, to allow access to sheets in tray 100.

[0096] Fig. 13 illustrates yet another alternative concept for accessing the sheets in the reservoir area 100. In this embodiment, an opening 196 has been used through the reservoir area to allow access to the sheets therein. The through access opening 196 is used for sliding door 198. Door 198 operates to slide

EP 1 673 740 wzdłuż1 along the direction indicated by the arrow S in opposite rails, slots or other suitable mechanisms for holding and guiding the door in a support connection with the cash acceptance mechanism. In some embodiments, the door 198 may include a locking mechanism 200. The locking mechanism 200 may be a suitable key, combination, or other locking mechanism to ensure that only authorized personnel can access documents in the storage area. As can be deduced from Fig. 13, the door 198 can be both unlocked and opened without having to retract the cash accepting mechanism backwards. In some embodiments, this can be used to speed up maintenance and remove invalid sheets from the machine.

[0097] Fig. 14 shows yet another embodiment of accessing the sheets in the storage area 100. In this embodiment, the opening 202 is provided in the rear surface of the cash accepting mechanism 80. Access to the opening 202 is controlled by the door 204, In this example implementations, door 204 is a sliding door adapted to be selectively displaced in rails, slots, or the like. In some embodiments, a suitable locking mechanism is used, schematically indicated as 206, to ensure that only authorized personnel will have access to the door. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 14, a transport assembly 208 is used to move the sheets in the storage area 100 towards the service personnel through the openings 202. Transport assembly 208 may operate in response to input to entry teams by service personnel, or may operate automatically in response to opening door 204. Of course, it should be understood that all concepts presented herein are exemplary, and other concepts may be used in other embodiments .

[0098] In some embodiments, suspicious banknotes or other documents are correlated with specific machine transactions and / or specific machine users. This can be done by operating the validity check assembly and controller as shown in the patent application published as US 2002033359. In some implementations, suspicious documents in the tray can be arranged in a specific order, and the controller operates in such a way that it sends one or more output signals such as via a screen or printer, indicating transaction and / or user information corresponding to suspects sheets. Alternatively or additionally, a condition may be made for the cash acceptance mechanism to be in a working connection with a printer that prints transaction and / or user identification information on each of the suspicious sheets. This may include, for example, visible or invisible markings. In some embodiments, the markings may be removable, such as removable labels or markings that may be washed off or otherwise removed or neutralized. In other embodiments, the characteristics determined by the validation team may be such that the data is sufficiently detailed and of a type that creates a unique electronic profile for each suspicious sheet. This data can be stored on the machine in a data carrier, through the operation of the controller, or elsewhere in a connected data carrier. This sheet identification data can later be used by service personnel or other persons recovering or analyzing suspicious sheets to correlate each sheet with the transaction and / or user who provided that sheet to the machine. This can be done in some implementations by setting the controller

ΕΡ 1 673 740 Β1 machines in a mode suitable for such analysis and for feeding each suspicious sheet through a cash acceptance mechanism. The controller may then operate to correlate stored transaction and / or user data with stored data that uniquely identifies the sheet. This information is then provided to the user of the machine recovering the sheets. Alternatively, such analysis can be performed by sending data from the machine together with suspicious sheets, as well as carrying out the analysis by another validation team. Of course, these concepts are exemplary of the concepts that can be used to uniquely identify a suspicious spreadsheet and associate it with a user and / or transaction.

[0099] In an embodiment of the cash accepting mechanism 80, it is desirable to keep the internal components of this cash accepting mechanism in an isolated and sealed relationship, except when access is required for maintenance. As can be deduced, however, in this embodiment, a cash acceptance mechanism is positioned in an intermediate relationship between the vertically extending wall of the substantially L-shaped chest and the wall of the enclosure to provide improved security, which is also a challenge for maintenance. Although the embodiment of the embodiment to move the cash acceptance mechanism backwards through the machine's maintenance opening facilitates maintenance, there are still potentially problems associated with the need to remove the cover plates and the like. What's more, there is always a risk that the covering plates after being removed will not be re-applied, which in turn will contribute to the penetration of dirt into the cash accepting mechanism and cause malfunctions or malfunctions.

[0100] In order to reduce the risk that operators will not re-apply the maintenance plates, embodiments are minimized to the risk that these maintenance plates will be removed and not reapplied. As shown in Fig. 15, in one embodiment, the side maintenance plate 210 is mounted in a hinged relationship in a support connection with the cash accepting mechanism. This allows the maintenance plate 210 to be opened when the cash accepting mechanism has been moved back from the machine. This allows easy access to the components inside the machine. Additionally, in this embodiment, the front maintenance plate 212 is mounted in a hinged relationship adjacent to the front of the cash acceptance mechanism. This front maintenance plate allows access to components available through the front opening of the cash acceptance mechanism.

[0101] As can be deduced, due to the hinged nature of the maintenance plates 210 and 212, these plates can be easily opened. However, the hinged mounting makes it difficult for the technician to completely remove the plates from the machine. In addition, the cash accepting mechanism cannot be restored to operation without closing the maintenance plates. Of course, as can be deduced, suitable latching mechanisms or other holding devices may be used to ensure that when the maintenance plates are returned to their closed position, they will remain there until such maintenance plates need to be re-opened for maintenance.

[0102] Fig. 16 is another schematic view of an alternative concept for the use of maintenance plates on a cash accepting mechanism 80, providing protection for internal components, and at the same time those that can be easily removed for canning27

EP 1 673 740 Β1. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 16, the maintenance plates 214 and 216 are applied in such a way that they can move in the direction indicated by the adjacent arrows. The maintenance plates 214 and 216 in this embodiment are mounted in channels, slots or other suitable devices on a cash accepting mechanism to guide and hold the plates in the right place. A useful aspect of the maintenance plates shown in Fig. 16 is that the cash accepting mechanism 80 does not need to be removed from the operating position to open the interior of the mechanism by moving the maintenance plate. In fact, in this embodiment, the maintenance plate 214 can be removed completely, exposing the components of the cash acceptance mechanism, without removing it from the operating position. The maintenance plate 216, which may include a front surface supporting a resilient gasket, can be made easier to remove by moving the gasket relative to the gutter. The ability to remove maintenance plates can be particularly useful in situations where a service technician should observe the cash acceptance mechanism during operation to diagnose and prevent specific problems.

[0103] In some embodiments, it may be desirable to use means to ensure that the maintenance plates 214 and 216 are reinstalled on the cash accepting mechanism after the maintenance procedures are completed. This can be done by inserting contact switches, such as contact switches shown as 218, to detect when the maintenance plates will be replaced. Such contact switches may limit the cash acceptance mechanism until the plates are re-applied. Alternatively, the circuit inside the ATM machine may cause an alarm or other indication that may be issued, or may prevent the cash accepting mechanism from operating if the upper case access door has been closed and the maintenance plates are not returned to their operating position. Of course, other concepts can be used.

[0104] As can be deduced, the maintenance plate arrangements shown in Figs. 15 and 16 for a cash accepting mechanism are exemplary, and other concepts may be used in other embodiments.

[0105] In the example ATM 10 machine, a mechanism for dispensing cash through the dispensing opening 38 in the console was also used. This cash dispensing mechanism, generally indicated as 220, is schematically illustrated in Fig. 3. In an embodiment, this cash dispensing mechanism is located in the upper portion of the generally L-shaped chest and includes a plurality of storage areas 222, 224, 226, 228, 230 and 232 for banknotes. In some embodiments, the banknote storage areas can be placed inside removable cash boxes that are suitable for storing banknotes and can be easily removed from the machine.

[0106] In this embodiment, each of the banknote storage areas is operatively connected to the gripping mechanism 234, 236, 238, 240, 242 and 244. Each of these gripping mechanisms acts selectively in response to the operation of the controller 64 and selectively issues banknotes or other sheets from the corresponding storage area in response to appropriate signals input into the user interface input devices. In some embodiments, the gripping mechanisms used may be similar to the gripping mechanism 86 used to separate sheets from a file in a cash accepting mechanism 80.

EP 1 673 740 0101 [0107] In an embodiment, the vertically extending conveyor assembly 246 is in operative connection with the gripping mechanisms and the feeding mechanism 248. During machine operation, the feeding mechanism operates to receive sheets issued by the gripping mechanisms and to move the sheets toward up through transport assembly 246, and also collects the sheets into a file schematically indicated as 250. After the desired sheets have been accumulated, the feeding mechanism operates to move the file towards the cash dispensing opening 38, while the controller operates and opens the cash dispensing gate 42. This allows the sheet file to be dispensed to the machine user.

[0108] It should be understood that, although in this embodiment, the cash dispensing mechanism 220 has been described as dispensing different denominations of cash banknotes, in other embodiments, the cash dispensing mechanism may issue other types of sheets. These may include, for example, traveler's checks, stamps, vouchers, receipts, gift certificates or other documents. Moreover, in some embodiments, the ATM machine may operate to issue combinations of both banknotes and other documents that the user may request. Of course, the mechanisms presented here are exemplary, and other concepts may be used in other embodiments.

[0109] During operation of the exemplary ATM 10 machine, the user operating the machine enters input signals sufficient to identify the user's account through the input devices in the machine. This may include, for example, supplying the card and / or alphanumeric data via input devices that can be correlated by operating the controller in the machine and / or interacting with a remote computer to determine the user's financial account. The controller then operates the machine's output devices in such a way as to instruct the user to enter signals and select a specific type of transaction or provide other signals. In situations where the user wishes to carry out the cash acceptance transaction, the ATM machine operates in response to the operation of the controller 64 and opens the gate 44 to the gutter 82, which allows the user to deliver a file of banknotes or other documents to the machine.

[0110] In response to a user providing the document file 84 and / or in response to signals input from the user, the cash accepting mechanism 80 operates to break down the document file by operating the gripping mechanism 86, and also defines at least one feature of each document by the operation of a validation device 88. Specific features of the documents may result in directing important or acceptable documents, using the operation of the guide device 92, to the deposit unit 94, where they may be temporarily stored. The controller can also operate the guide device 92 in such a way as to route suspicious documents, such as invalid documents or potentially counterfeit notes, to transport assembly 86 and to storage area 100.

[0111] In an embodiment, when the documents have been moved all the way behind the validation assembly, the controller may operate to inform the user about the finding made by the machine with respect to these documents, through the output signals sent by one or more output devices. In some embodiments, the user may be offered the option of receiving valid or invalid documents or both. This can be done via a deposit device supplying documents to the same or different transport units in such a way that these documents can be returned to the chute or other area of ​​the machine that is accessible to the user. Similarly, if this option is proposed, nevertheless29

ΕΡ 1 673 740 Β1 documents can be similarly sent back to the user. Of course, different concepts can be used, depending on the specific machine configuration and the software associated with the controller.

[0112] In the example transaction, if the documents identified as valid are to be stored within the machine, the controller operates in response to user input signals and / or its software, causing the deposit device 94 to provide these documents. Documents are routed through the guide device 92, through the cash-accepting opening 102 in the crate, in which they are transported and stored in appropriate sheet handling mechanisms or in an appropriate collective storage container. In this embodiment, the user's account is credited for depositing important sheets. Information on any invalid sheets provided by the user is collected, so that if these sheets are later identified as valid, the user may be credited or alternatively it is possible to contact the user to determine the origin of the invalid sheets. Of course, as can be deduced, this transaction is exemplary, and other concepts may be used in other embodiments.

[0113] Using the exemplary ATM machine 10, the user can also perform cash dispensing transactions. This can be done either during the same section as the cash acceptance transaction or as part of a separate session. In such a transaction, the ATM machine user enters signals into the input devices sufficient to identify one or more accounts of that user and / or other identifying input signals. In response to prompting messages from output devices, the user enters signals indicating that he wishes to carry out a transaction involving the issue of banknotes or other types of sheets, the amount, type and nature of the sheets requested by the user.

[0114] In response to user input, the controller 64 operates to cause the cash dispensing mechanism 220 and the gripping mechanisms disposed therein to deliver the desired sheets to the feeding mechanism 248 which operates to collect the desired sheets in file 250. When the sheets have been collected, the sheets are moved out to the user when the gate mechanism is opened. Then the controller works causing the user's account to be debited with the value of cash or other sheets issued.

[0115] It should be understood that the transactions described herein are exemplary and additional types of transactions may be performed as a result of various embodiments. In addition, as previously discussed, mechanisms that operate to both accept and spend cash as described in the disclosures herein may be used as replacements or in addition to the mechanisms described herein for carrying out transactions. In some embodiments, other types of functional transaction units may be used. For example, as discussed earlier, embodiments of this invention may operate to illustrate and check the validity of checks. In such cases, it may be desirable for the machine to be able to cancel the check or destroy the check, so that there is no risk that the check may later be stolen and used in bad faith. In some embodiments, appropriate mechanisms may be used to perform such functions. In addition, it may be desirable in some embodiments to cause the machine to generate bank checks, traveler's checks, tickets or other documents, and appropriate mechanisms may

EP 1 673 740 Β1 can be provided to generate such documents in selected amounts. Moreover, in alternative embodiments, the functions used by traders, such as devices for accepting deposit bags, issuing rolls of coins or other devices, may be introduced into an ATM machine or other automatic banking machine having the features described herein. As can also be deduced, the features of an example ATM machine can also be used in numerous other types of automatic banking machines.

[0116] Embodiments of this invention include light emitting devices 17, 31, 41, 43 and 45. In this embodiment, these light emitting devices are located in areas on the user interface at locations associated with specific functional transaction devices. For example, the light emitting device 31 is associated with the receipt printer 30, while the light emitting device 17 is associated with the card reader 16. In this embodiment, the light-emitting devices are in working connection with one or more controllers in the machine. In addition, such devices are suitable for sending light in selected colors at certain times during the transaction, in response to the operational state of the functional transaction device in an ATM machine to which such a light-emitting device is assigned.

[0117] In an embodiment, the light emitting devices may comprise a system of light emitting diodes of different colors, mounted on a flexible circuit. For example, Fig. 22 shows a light emitting device 31, However, it should be understood that in this embodiment all the light emitting devices are substantially similar. The light emitting device 31 comprises a system of LEDs 304, connected through a circuit on a flexible substrate such as a polyamide film, for example, DuPont Kapton® material, and also includes a flexible connector part 306. This flexible connector terminates in an electrical connector 308. The electrical connector 308 can be connected, with the option of disconnection, with a power supply circuit or other electrical circuit in the machine that operatively connects it to one or more controllers to control lighting by a light-emitting device.

[0118] As illustrated in Fig. 23, in this embodiment, the light-emitting device comprises LEDs in three different colors. These LEDs are red, green and yellow, which is represented by "R," '' G, "and Ύ" in the figures as illustrated. As illustrated in Fig. 23, in this embodiment, the LEDs are in an arrangement such that only one color LED is vertically aligned along a single line of such a light-emitting device. For example, as illustrated in Fig. 23, line 310 includes a line of vertically aligned red LEDs. As illustrated in Fig. 23, line 312 is only the line of green LEDs alone, while line 314 is only the yellow LEDs. As shown in Fig. 23, in this embodiment, the lines repeat, resulting in five vertical lines of LEDs of each color. It should be understood that although in this embodiment LEDs of each color are arranged vertically, in other embodiments other arrangements such as horizontal arrangement or other LED arrays may be used. It should also be considered that, however, these LEDs are electrically connected in series as illustrated in Fig. 24, the electrical connections on the flexible circuit contribute to obtaining vertically aligned pairs of LEDs of only one color.

[0119] As shown in Fig. 25, in this embodiment, the light-emitting devices are supported on a flexible web. This web is thin in a preferred embodiment and has a thickness of approximately 1.20 mm. This facilitates the location of the light-emitting devices on the user interface31

EP 1 673 740 Β1. In this embodiment, the LEDs, which are shown as 316 and 318, have been mounted on a base layer 320 comprising a circuit on a flexible substrate. The outer layer 322, which in this embodiment comprises a polyester layer, is applied to the LEDs. The spacer 324 extends between the base layer and the outer layer. As best illustrated in Fig. 23, a number of spacers may be used. In this embodiment, the spacers are arranged outside the LEDs and include holes 326 to facilitate the positioning of the light-emitting devices on the machine. This may include, for example, protruding pins, posts or fastening devices passing through the holes in such a way as to fix the light-emitting devices in the correct position. Also, in this embodiment, the release layer includes underlying adhesive layer 328. This adhesive layer allows the attachment of the light emitting device to a selected area inside the machine. Such an adhesive layer is initially exposed to attach the light-emitting device by removing the adhesive release layer 330, as illustrated in Fig. 25.

[0120] In an embodiment, the light emitting devices are attached to the machine components to which they are assigned. This can be done, for example, by using a modular structure for functional transaction devices inside the machine, as well as attaching a specific light-emitting device to the associated module. For example, in Fig. 18 shows a cash accepting device 80 that is used as a modular device for handling sheets that can be received in a machine. In this embodiment, the respective light emitting device 41 is attached in a supportive connection with the module. The adjacent console area in the machine provides an opening through which the light-emitting device can be observed when it is in the operating position. In some embodiments, the machine console may include transparent or translucent material separating the light emitting device from the outside of the machine. However, in other embodiments, the light-emitting devices may be exposed to the outside of the machine. Attaching light-emitting devices directly to the machine's modular components can facilitate machine assembly and maintenance. Placing the light-emitting assembly directly on the transactional function module that it is assigned to can reduce the amount of cabling and connectors needed for assembly and maintenance.

[0121] In an embodiment, the devices emitting multi-colored light operate under the control of one or more controllers in the machine. Each light-emitting device operates to emit light of a selected color and / or in a selected manner in response to the operational state of the associated transaction function assembly. For example, example machines may be suitable for selective programming to emit light of a certain color in response to a given operating condition. For example, a light emitting device adjacent to the card reader may emit a green light when it is ready to receive a user card and then change the light to yellow after the card has been received. Alternatively or additionally, lights of different colors may flash or shine alternately to reflect the states of a particular device. What's more, for example in the event of a malfunction, such as in the case of an attempt by the user to incorrectly insert the card into the card reader, the controller can be programmed to have a light-emitting device assigned that emits red light or otherwise flashes colored light32

EP 1 673 740 Β1 background to indicate to the user that he is performing some incorrect activity. Similarly, if a specific functional transaction device is malfunctioning or not available, a red light may be displayed.

[0122] In some embodiments, the controller may be programmed to actuate the light-emitting devices to guide the user while operating the machine. This may include, for example, causing a particular color to light or flash, to indicate the desired action to be taken by the user at a specific location in the machine. For example, at a certain time during the transaction, the controller may cause the display to send a message to the customer that he should receive his receipt. When the machine has delivered the receipt, the controller may operate such that the light-emitting device 31, assigned to the delivery of the receipts, lights, blinks, or otherwise indicates to the user that it is necessary for the user to perform operations in the area of ​​the receipt delivery slot.

[0123] In some embodiments, the controller may be programmed to cause the light-emitting devices to selectively shine intermittently and for different times, depending on the operating state of the device assigned to it. For example, if the user enters the input signals to request a cash dispensing transaction, the light emitting device 43 adjacent to the cash dispensing device may glow yellow when the machine is operating internally to move banknotes toward the cash dispensing hole. Banknotes are then pushed through the hole and delivered to the user, and the controller may cause the light emitting device to turn green. In addition, the driver may cause the green light to flash to alert the user that the money is ready to be picked up. Moreover, in the embodiment, if the user has not received their cash after a certain time, the machine is programmed to withdraw it and the controller may cause the light-emitting device to flash, change the frequency and / or flashing time, or it may work so that flashes in different colors alternately to attract the user's attention before withdrawing money.

[0124] In other embodiments, the colors emitted by the light emitting devices may be selectively programmed according to aesthetic considerations. For example, if the machine operating unit has certain visual commercial aesthetics including certain colors, then the controller may be programmed to have light-emitting devices that correspond to this commercial aesthetics. Thus, if the color of the visual commercial aesthetics of a particular unit is green, then the machine can be programmed to use green LEDs as access indications, instructing the user how to operate the machine. Similarly, if a different operating unit in the case of a similar machine uses yellow as part of its visual commercial aesthetics, then the controller can be programmed to activate the yellow LEDs in the light-emitting devices as access indications.

[0125] It should further be understood that, although the use of light-emitting devices in three colors has been demonstrated, it is only exemplary, and in other embodiments additional types of light-emitting devices may be used. In addition, it should be understood that although in this embodiment the light-emitting devices are arranged in such a way that only one color can be sent from a given light-emitting device at a time, in other embodiments the feature of activating LEDs in several colors simultaneously. IN

ΕΡ 1 673 740 Β1 such examples of implementation can be used LEDs in basic colors, so that different ranges of shades are obtained through color combinations. This can be done by running a number of light-emitting sources simultaneously and / or by changing the intensity of such sources by operating the controller in such a way as to obtain different colors. This may include, for example, the use of a gradual change in the shade of the light-emitting device according to the status of the associated transaction device. For example, this may include providing the user with an indication of the completion status of a particular task. Combinations of two or more colors can be generated selectively. It should also be understood that although LEDs are used as a light source in this embodiment, other concepts may be used in other embodiments of this invention. It should be understood that the structures and operations described herein are exemplary and numerous other structures and methods may fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0126] In the example of the re-commissioning of the ATM 10 machine, it is possible to facilitate the user operation of the machine and to minimize the risk that certain people will incorrectly observe the user or his activities. Such undesirable actions may, for example, include unauthorized observation of the user's input of his PIN or other data. As shown in Fig. 26, console 12 according to this embodiment includes a recessed area 332 in which the display, function buttons, card reader and receipt outlet are located. This recessed area 332 is illuminated by a light source 334. This light source 334 provides lighting substantially in a downward direction so as to allow the user to easily find visual locations of input and output devices on the machine console.

[0127] In this embodiment, console 12 includes an upper panel portion 336 that is located substantially above the light source 334 and user interface in the machine. As illustrated in Fig. 26, the upper panel portion includes a pair of convex mirrors 338, 340. These convex mirrors 338, 340 are generally horizontally oriented and are located on opposite sides of the user interface.

[0128] As shown in Fig. 27, user 342 operating ATM machine 10 will generally have a body aligned with the machine user interface 15. As a result, the user may generally conduct observations in the convex mirrors of the area behind the user, generally indicated as 343. The user may do so by viewing mirrors 338 and 340 on the left and right of the user, respectively. By looking at these mirrors, the user can generally see what is happening behind him as well as in a transverse direction to the area directly behind him. This may enable the user to determine whether one or more persons are nearby and whether such persons may attempt to observe the user or the signals entering by him into the ATM machine. In some embodiments where the ATM machine is operated in an external environment, light sources may be used in area 343 to help the user observe the persons who may be present there.

[0129] It should be understood that the arrangement shown herein is exemplary, and other mirror or observation arrangements may be used in other embodiments. In addition, in some embodiments, a condition may be made to keep the mirrors clean to reduce the risk that the user will be less able to see what is happening in his surroundings. For example, these options may include automatic devices that wipe the mirror surface periodically. These can be external wiping devices or, in some examples, real life34

EP 1 673 740 -1 internal wiping devices. This can be done, for example, by the use of convex mirrors remaining in support of one or more rotating members that can be periodically rotated inside the console by a motor or other moving device that operates in response to the operation of the ATM controller in such a way that it reveals new outer surface. Cleaning devices inside the console can operate to wipe dirt off the mirror surface as it moves internally in such a way that further rotation causes the clean mirror to be exposed to the user. This may include, for example, contact wiping blades that engage the mirror surface. Moving the mirror surface in such a way that its rotation in conjunction with the wiping blades can be used to remove accumulated dirt on the reflecting surface. In some embodiments, the mirror surface may be part of the cylindrical body, and rotating the body about the central longitudinal axis may provide a wiping effect when the mirror surface passes past the fixed wipers coupled therewith. In some embodiments, fixed wipers may be constructed of resilient material and / or may include movable mounting mechanisms to bias the wiper for engaging with the movable surface of the mirror. In alternative embodiments, the cleaning solution tank may be used inside or adjacent to the machine. A suitable pump or other device may be used to apply the cleaning solution to the mirror surfaces as it moves relative to the wipers to facilitate removal of dirt. Of course, these concepts are only examples, and other concepts may be used in other embodiments.

[0130] In some embodiments, accumulated material on the mirror surface may be detected to determine that there is a need for cleaning. This can be done, for example, by using a mirror that has some significant light transmission properties as well as light reflecting properties in a manner such as a semi-silvered mirror. For example, the radiation source and sensor can be located behind the mirror. In such embodiments, the radiation emitted by the radiation surface is partially reflected from the inside of the mirror surface, and the amount of reflected radiation is detected by the sensor. Accumulation of dirt on the outer surface of the mirror changes the amount of radiation reflected from the internal radiation source to the sensor. In some embodiments, the accumulated dirt on the outer surface of the mirror increases the amount of radiation reflected from the inner surface of the mirror. This change in the amount of reflected radiation is detected and used as the basis to determine the need to clean the mirror. For example, immediately after cleaning the mirror, an ATM controller or other processor may cause the emitting element to emit radiation, and the sensor detects the amount of internally reflected radiation from the inner surface of the mirror. This initial value is stored by the controller in one or more data carriers, then, on a periodic basis, for example at certain time intervals or after a certain number of transactions, the emitting element can re-emit radiation, and the level of reflected radiation can also be detected. The controller can then compare the current level of reflected radiation with the initial value.

[0131] In response to detecting a difference greater than a certain set value, which difference corresponds to an unacceptable level of accumulated dirt on the outer surface of the mirror,

EP 1 673 740 Β1 the controller operates so that it sends one or more signals. These signals clean the mirrors. Such signals may include, for example, the operation of a device such as motors or other mechanism in such a way as to cause the mirror to be displaced to be cleaned. Alternatively, in some implementations, the controller may cause a message to be sent to a remote operator, indicating the need to clean the mirror surface on the console. In yet other embodiments, the controller may cause the ATM machine to operate by attempting to clean the mirrors through an external cleaning mechanism in the ATM machine, and then re-check the reflection coefficient after attempting self-cleaning. If this self-cleaning attempt does not cause the reflection coefficient to reach the initial initial value or the value within a certain programmed range (which may indicate that the mirror has been spray painted), the controller operates to send a message to contact a remote operator. Of course, these concepts are only examples, and other concepts may be used in other embodiments .

[0132] In some other alternative embodiments, the controller may detect dirt on the mirror by using mirrors or other reflecting devices that let at least some significant amount of light pass through from outside to within. One or more light sensors in working connection with the machine controller are located behind the mirror surface. The external light sensor is located outside the ATM machine to detect the ambient light level. The controller is programmed to specify an unacceptable level of dirt accumulation on the mirror based on the level of external ambient light that is detected as passing through the mirror. This can be done, for example, by detecting the magnitude of the signal from the ambient light sensor and by comparing the magnitude of the ambient light with the amount of light detected as reaching the sensor located behind the mirror. As can be deduced, when a small amount of dirt is accumulated on the surface of the mirror or there is none at all, more light will reach the sensor behind the mirror. As dirt accumulates, the level of transmitted light will decrease. If the amount of light detected as passing through the mirror and reaching the sensor, relative to the level of ambient light, decreases to a certain pre-set ratio or other value, the controller can then operate in accordance with its programmed instructions and operate the device necessary for self-cleaning the mirror, generate signals to contact a service representative or take other appropriate action.

[0133] In further alternative embodiments, one or more external ambient light sensors may be in operational connection with the controller, and an internal emitting element and a sensor behind the mirror surface that allows light to pass through may be used. In such embodiments, the controller can be programmed to analyze the amount of ambient light that is expected to pass through the mirror and reach the sensor according to the ambient light level. In such circumstances, the controller can compensate for ambient light when detecting the level of light reflected from the internal emitter. Such compensation may further assist in the precise detection of the state when it is necessary to clean the mirror. Of course, the specific dependencies and level of compensation will depend on the particular mirror configuration. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, a controller

EP 1 673 740 może1 can operate so that it detects the level of ambient radiation and its amount that passes through the mirror and reaches the sensor at different times than the moment in which the controller activates the internal emitting element and detects the reflected radiation. The controller can operate so that it compares these two separate values ​​and the relationship between them and / or changes in reflectance and light transmission over time to determine when the mirror will need cleaning. Of course, these concepts are only examples and other concepts may be used in other embodiments. [0134] In yet other embodiments, the mirrors can operate only during the transaction or during parts of it. This can be done, for example, by using mirrors that work only when a person in the vicinity of the machine is detected or the machine is busy performing part of the transaction. For example, a sensor such as an acoustic sensor, radiation sensor, weight sensor or other suitable device can detect the presence of a user near the machine. When a user is detected in the vicinity of the machine, the controller can operate to expose one or more mirrors outside the machine console. This can be done, for example, by using movable members in a support connection with the mirror surfaces, driven by motors or other suitable moving devices that are in working connection with the controllers. When the user is detected in the vicinity of the machine, the controller works so that the motors or other moving devices move the mirrors to the working position in such a way that the user can observe the area behind him. [0135] For example, in some embodiments, the reflecting surfaces that include the mirror may be in a support connection with the rotatable member. This rotary member can be rotated when the customer is present at the machine, whereby the reflecting surface is positioned so as to allow the user to observe the area behind him. Moreover, when the client is detected as leaving the ATM area, such user departure is detected, and the controller in response to them causes the members containing the reflected surfaces to move so that these reflecting surfaces are no longer exposed. This concept can provide the advantage that the mirror surfaces are exposed to the effects of weathering only at the time when transactions take place, and therefore will be less likely to accumulate dirt. Additionally, in some embodiments, wipers or other suitable cleaning devices may be used adjacent to the reflecting surfaces in such a way that when these reflecting surfaces are wiped and cleaned, they remain substantially free of dirt. [0136] Although in some embodiments, the reflecting surfaces may move to the client's operating position in response to user detection in the vicinity of the machine, in other embodiments, other concepts may be used. These may include, for example, moving the mirror surface to the operating position only in response to certain activities or certain types of transactions carried out by the user at the machine. Alternatively or additionally, the mirrors may be moved to the operating position only in response to other conditions, such as ambient lighting conditions, time of day and / or detection of persons or objects entering the area behind the user at which persons or objects are detected. Alternatively or additionally, the controller can be programmed and appropriate sensors can be used to move the mirrors to the working position, according to the nature in which the ATM machine is used by the user. For example, in the case of an ATM machine that is intended for use37

ΕΡ 1 673 740 Β1 standing both from the driveway and from the sidewalk, appropriate sensors can be used to detect whether the user is in the vehicle or approached the machine on foot. This can be done, for example, by proximity sensors, magnetic sensors, weight sensors or other suitable sensors. The controller can be programmed to determine according to one or more input signals from the sensors whether the user is in the vehicle or is without a car. In situations where the user is identified as being in a vehicle. Setting the mirrors in the working position may be considered unnecessary, because the vehicle can be used to block unauthorized users from watching signals input by the user to the machine. Alternatively, if the user has been identified as approaching the machine on foot, the controller may operate to bring the mirrors to a working position to allow the user to view the area behind them where unauthorized persons may attempt to observe the signals entering the machine.

[0137] In yet other embodiments, alternative or additional features that further help prevent the observation of signals input by users into the machine may be included. For example, in some embodiments, the machine console may be provided with lighting that is directed backwards from the console, outside the user's line of sight. Such rear-facing lighting, when activated, may work so as to disturb the view of persons or unauthorized devices attempting to observe signals input by the user to the machine. Such backward lighting can operate selectively when a user is detected in the vicinity of the machine to reduce the risk of intercepting user input signals and / or to provide lighting in the back 2 area behind the user. In other embodiments, the controller may be programmed to operate by activating rearward-facing lighting only during certain parts of the transaction when the user performs certain activities. For example, the controller can be programmed to turn on the lighting when the user enters a PIN number which unauthorized persons may wish to intercept. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the rearward-facing lighting can be activated only when the mirrors are moved to the actuated position. Alternatively or additionally, lighting devices can be mounted in a support connection with mechanisms connected to the mirror structures. Further features may be used in some cases to provide mechanisms for cleaning lighting devices when they are moved to the working position. Of course, these concepts are exemplary, and other concepts may be used in other embodiments. Moreover, the basic features discussed here can be used with other types of automatic banking machines and in other circumstances than those described in connection with this embodiment.

[0138] Thus, the automatic banking machine and system according to the embodiments allow to achieve one or more of the above objectives, eliminate the difficulties encountered when using previous devices and systems, solve the problems and ensure obtaining the desired effects described in this document.

[0139] In the description given above, certain terms have been used to achieve compactness, clarity, and comprehensibility, but nevertheless no unnecessary restrictions should be imposed as such terms are for descriptive purposes and are intended to be interpreted broadly. What

EP 1 673 740 więcej1 more the descriptions and illustrations given herein are exemplary of the invention and are not limited to the details shown and described herein.

[0140] In the following claims, the feature described as a means for performing a certain function should be interpreted as including any means suitable for performing the said function, and should not be considered limited to the specific means set forth in the description given above or only equivalents.

[0141] After describing the features, discoveries and basic concepts of this invention, the way it is constructed and operating, as well as the benefits obtained and beneficial effects; the appended claims will present new and useful structures, devices, elements, systems, parts, combinations, systems, instrumentation, operations, methods, processes and relationships.