Patent ID: 7567088
Filing Date: 2009-07-28
Classification: G07D,G07F

Abstract:
1. A foreign object detection apparatus, comprising: at least one pair of first and second members which are members configuring a space, in which bills to be processed are deposited, and disposed to face each other to push and sandwich the bills therebetween; a first electrode member which is made of a conductive material disposed on at least a part of the first member to face the space; a second electrode member which is made of a conductive material disposed on at least a part of the second member to face the space; a ground unit which grounds the second electrode member; a voltage applying unit which applies a voltage to the first electrode member; a measuring unit which measures a voltage generated according to electrostatic capacitance of a virtual capacitor which is comprised of the first and second electrode members; and a judging unit which judges whether a foreign object is present according to a difference between a prescribed reference signal and a changed output voltage from the measuring unit depending on a change in electrostatic capacitance of the virtual capacitor.