Currency handling apparatus and currency handling method

Currency handling apparatus comprising: accommodating unit for accommodating various kinds of currencies; a currency discharge opening; a transfer unit for transferring the currencies from the accommodating units to the currency discharge opening; a control unit for controlling the transfer unit to transfer the currencies from the accommodating units to the currency discharge opening thereby to discharge the currencies; and a storage unit for storing various kinds of discharge patterns indicating the numbers of currencies of individual kinds. The control unit is constituted to specify at least one of the discharge patterns in response to the instruction of a user and to discharge the currencies in accordance with the specified discharge pattern. As a result, the user can discharge the desired numbers of currencies of individual kinds merely by performing the simple designating operations.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a currency handling apparatus and a currency handling method capable of dispensing money of a plurality of denominations.

BACKGROUND ART

Conventionally, cash registers (hereinafter, “register”) are widely used in retail stores for payment processing. A register is used by an operator (hereinafter, “cashier”) to assist the cashier in the payment processing. Use of the registers allows the cashier to smoothly perform operations like totaling the amount of money from the sale of commodities, accepting cash from and returning change to customers, etc. An administrator (hereinafter, “manager”) manages the work done by the cashier and the cash, which includes sales proceeds, etc., inside the register.

Before beginning the payment processing, a drawer inside the register is replenished with change fund that is meant to be used as change. For example, the previous day or before business hours of the current day, a cashier or a manager, who was in charge of the register, does the job of replenishing the change fund. Various currency handling apparatuses that dispense the change fund have been proposed.

For example, in Patent Document 1, a sales proceeds depositing machine is disclosed that accepts only the actual sales proceeds and rejects change fund out of the deposited money. Furthermore, in Patent Document 2, a banknote transaction processing system is disclosed that, when an amount of change fund is input, dispenses money of the specified amount.

CONVENTIONAL ART DOCUMENTS

Patent Documents

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

Because money comes in a plurality of denominations, it is preferable that the register be replenished with the change fund in the form of money in each of the denominations in the desired number depending on situations. To achieve this, to produce the change fund, a money dispensing apparatus is used that can dispense money of each denomination in the desired numbers. When dispensing of the change fund from the money dispensing apparatus, it is preferable that it should be easy to specify the desired number of money of each denomination.

For example, if the amount of money or the number of money to be dispensed has to be specified in each denomination for every dispensing, a lot of effort and time will be wasted. For example, a huge workload is put on an operator when performing money dispensing processes a plurality of times in different money dispensing details for a plurality of registers. Furthermore, if the method of specifying the money dispensing details is complicated, errors can occur during input.

The present invention is made in view of the above problems, and it is an object of the present invention to provide a currency handling apparatus and a currency handling method that allows easy specification of money dispensing details when dispensing money in a plurality of denominations in the desired numbers.

Means for Solving the Problem

According to a first aspect of the present invention, a currency handling apparatus includes a plurality of money accommodating units that accommodates therein money; an outlet that dispenses the money accommodated in the money accommodating units; a transport unit that transports the money accommodated in the money accommodating units to the outlet; a storage unit that stores therein a plurality of money dispensing patterns that specify denominations and amounts of dispensing money; an operation unit that can input, change and select the data stored in the storage unit; and a control unit that exerts control over the transport unit to transport the money that are of specified denominations and amounts based on the money dispensing pattern selected by using the operation unit, from the money accommodating units to the outlet for dispensing the transported money.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the currency handling apparatus according to the first aspect, the storage unit stores therein the money dispensing patterns and cash register information in a correlated form, and the control unit performs the money dispensing based on the money dispensing pattern corresponding to the cash register information selected by using the operation unit.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the currency handling apparatus according to the first aspect, when the number of the money dispensing in the money dispensing pattern is further inputted by using the operation unit, the control unit repeats the money dispensing based on the money dispensing pattern for the number of times inputted for the dispensing processes.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the currency handling apparatus according to the third aspect, the control unit repeats the money dispensing for the number of times only when the operation for the money dispensing process was approved by password authentication.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the currency handling apparatus according to the first aspect, when the money of any denomination specified in the money dispensing pattern falls short, the control unit performs the substitute money dispensing of a shortfall amount in a substitute denomination that is different from the denomination that has fallen short.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the currency handling apparatus according to the fifth aspect, the storage unit stores therein a setting that specifies the substitute denomination that can be used in place of the denomination that falls short; and the control unit performs the substitute money dispensing process based on the setting details stored in the storage unit.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the currency handling apparatus according to the fifth aspect, the storage unit stores therein a setting that limits the number of money of the substitute denomination that can be used in place of the denomination that falls short, and the control unit performs the substitute money dispensing process based on the setting details stored in the storage unit.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the currency handling apparatus according to the first aspect further includes a sensor that detects a presence or an absence of a money container for accommodating the dispensing money at the outlet. The control unit controls a money dispensing operation based on a detection result of the sensor.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the currency handling apparatus according to the second aspect, the cash register information includes at least one of a cash register number and a name of a cashier.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the currency handling apparatus according to the second aspect, the storage unit stores therein money-dispensing permission information that indicates whether to permit the money dispensing on each of the cash register, and the control unit performs the money dispensing sequentially based on the money dispensing pattern corresponding to the cash register on which the money-dispensing permission indicates to permit the money dispensing process.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the currency handling apparatus according to the tenth aspect, the control unit performs the money dispensing sequentially based on a plurality of pieces of the cash register information only when the operation for the money dispensing process was approved by password authentication.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the currency handling apparatus according to the second aspect further includes an information reading unit that reads the cash register information recorded on a medium, and transmits read cash register information to the control unit as selected cash register information.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the currency handling apparatus according to the twelfth aspect, barcode data that includes the cash register information is recorded on the medium.

Advantages of the Invention

According to a first aspect of a currency handling apparatus of the present invention, a user can specify money dispensing details merely by specifying a money dispensing pattern. Therefore, when dispensing of money of each denomination in a predetermined number is to be performed, the user can easily specify the money dispensing details.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, when operating the currency handling apparatus to perform the dispensing of a change fund for a register, merely by specifying a cash register information corresponding to the register, the user can operate the currency handling apparatus to perform money dispensing of the change fund suitable for the specified register.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the money dispensing in the same money dispensing pattern can be repeated for a specified number of times without having to repeat an operation of specifying the money dispensing pattern.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, safety can be ensured by allowing only an authenticated person to perform repeated money dispensing operations.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, if there is a shortage of money of a specified denomination, the money dispensing can be performed in money of a substitute denomination.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, a condition under which the substitute money dispensing can be performed is restricted by the denomination of the substitute denomination.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, a condition under which the substitute money dispensing can be performed is restricted by the number of money to be dispensed in the substitute denomination.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, upon detection of the presence of a money container at an outlet, the money dispensing can be automatically started or upon detection of the absence of the money container at the outlet, the money dispensing can be forbidden even if the operation to start the money dispensing is performed.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the register can be specified by a register No. or a name of a cashier.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the money dispensing can be performed sequentially in the money dispensing patterns corresponding to each of the registers for which the money dispensing is permitted based on money-dispensing permission information.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, sequential money dispensing operations for a plurality of registers based on the money-dispensing permission information is enabled only when the operation was approved by password authentication.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the register can be specified by the cash register information included in an IC card, etc., and money dispensing can be performed for the register specified in this manner.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the register can be specified by the cash register information included in a barcode, and money dispensing can be performed for the register specified in this manner.

BEST MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are explained in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the present embodiment, a money recycling apparatus is explained as an example of a currency handing apparatus with reference toFIG. 1. The present invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described herein. Accordingly, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the accompanying claims and their equivalents. For example, the currency handling apparatus according to the present invention need not be limited to the money recycling apparatus; it can be a dedicated money dispensing apparatus, etc., as long as it can dispense change fund.

As shown inFIG. 1, a money recycling apparatus1includes an operation unit11, a barcode reading unit12, a display unit13, a storage unit15, an inlet16, a recognition unit20, a money recycling unit21, and a control unit14that controls all the components mentioned above.

The operation unit11, for example, has a plurality of push-button switches, and is operable by a user. Information relating to the operations performed by using the operation unit11is transmitted to the control unit14, and this enables the money recycling apparatus1to execute processes that reflect the intention of the user who operated the operation unit11.

The operation unit11need not be limited to the example described above but can have various other forms. For example, the operation unit11can be a keyboard, a touch panel, etc. Furthermore, an OSD (On-Screen Display), etc., displayed on the display unit13can also be used as the operation unit11.

Upon presentation of an object with a barcode printed thereon, the barcode reading unit12reads and decodes the barcode and transmits information indicated by the barcode to the control unit11. This enables the money recycling apparatus1to execute a process based on the information recorded as the barcode.

The display unit13has a liquid crystal display, etc., and displays various types of information based on commands received from the control unit14.

The control unit14includes, for example, a CPU, etc., and controls each of the components that constitute the money recycling apparatus1, and implements various types of processes executed by the money recycling apparatus1. The main processes, such as, the money dispensing process will be explained concretely later.

The storage unit15includes a non-volatile memory and stores therein various types of information, such as, computer programs and data.

The recognition unit20recognizes the denomination of the money that is deposited and dispensed by the money recycling unit21. Because a known procedure is adopted for recognition of the denomination of the money, the details are omitted herefrom. Recognition information obtained at the recognition unit20is transmitted to the control unit14.

The money recycling unit21includes an inlet16for receiving money, an outlet18for dispensing money, a denomination-wise money accommodating unit17that accommodates therein the money deposited from the inlet16based on the denomination and transports the money to be dispensed to the outlet18, a deposited-money transport unit19athat transports the money from the inlet16to the denomination-wise money accommodating unit17, and a dispensing-money transport unit19bthat transports the money from the denomination-wise accommodating unit17to the outlet18.

The inlet16is for introducing the money that is to be deposited into the money recycling apparatus1. The deposited money is transported to the denomination-wise money accommodating unit17by the deposited-money transport unit19a. The money handled by the money recycling apparatus1can be either banknotes or coins or a combination of both banknotes and coins.

The denomination-wise money accommodating unit17includes a plurality of money accommodating units for accommodating the money of predetermined denominations denomination-wise. In the present embodiment, the denomination-wise money accommodating units17accommodate therein the money in four denominations, namely, 1 USD, 5 USD, 10 USD, and 20 USD. The denominations can be of other currencies, such as, Yen and Euro.

The outlet18is a unit from which dispensing money, dispensed from the money recycling apparatus1, is discharged. The dispensing money is transported from the denomination-wise money accommodating unit17by the dispensing-money transport unit19b. A money container of a register, which is explained later, can be arranged in the outlet18. By doing so, the dispensing money that is transported to the outlet18is automatically accommodated in the money container. Alternatively, money dispensing can also be carried out without using the money container.

A container detecting sensor is arranged in the outlet18for judging whether the money container of the register has been set in the outlet18. Specifically, for example, an optical sensor, which comprises a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit that are arranged on either side of the money container, can be used as the container detecting sensor. With this structure, if presence of the money container is detected, money dispensing is automatically started, and if presence of the money container is not detected, money dispensing is not performed.

The deposited-money transport unit19atransports the deposited money based on a command received from the control unit14. The transported money is accommodated in the denomination-wise money accommodating unit17based on the denomination. The recognition information obtained at the recognition unit20is used to determine the denominations of the deposited money.

The dispensing-money transport unit19btransports the dispensing money to the outlet18based on information relating to money dispensing details received from the control unit14. The information received from the control unit14includes an amount of money of each denomination to be dispensed.

Various types of mechanisms can be adopted for the deposited-money transport unit19aand the dispensing-money transport unit19b; for example, the money can be transported by using a conveyor belt. The mechanisms of the deposited-money transport unit19aand the dispensing-money transport unit19bcan overlap partially or entirely. For example, the inlet16and the outlet18can be a common member and a single transport unit can function as the deposited-money transport unit19aand the dispensing-money transport unit19b.

The money recycling apparatus1can perform a money deposit process, a money dispensing process, and various types of setting processes relating to the money dispensing process by using the structures and operations of the components described above. Furthermore, the money recycling apparatus1is used to replenish change funds of a plurality of the registers installed in a store.

For example, as shown inFIG. 2, the money dispensed from the money recycling apparatus1based on a command received from a user is used to replenish the change fund of each register. For the money recycling apparatus1, the money is replenished by the money deposit process and a money replenishment process. Each of the registers is assigned a unique register number (hereinafter, “register No.”) to distinguish each register from other registers.

Each register includes a printing device that prints a barcode. The barcode printed by the printing device includes cash register information, which is information pertaining to the register in which printing device is installed. A cashier uses the barcode reading unit12arranged in the money recycling apparatus1to read the barcode printed by the assigned register and to input the cash register information into the money recycling apparatus1.

The cash register information is information that distinguishes each register from other registers, and includes, for example, information such as the register No. The cash register information can includes name or employee number that identifies the cashier who would be operating the register.

Each register includes a money container for accommodating change fund and sales proceeds. For example, a part of a drawer that is removable from a register main body can be used as the money container. With this structure, as mentioned above, the money container can be used by setting it in the outlet18of the money recycling apparatus1.

A process flow of processes executed in the money recycling apparatus1is explained with reference to a flowchart shown inFIG. 3.

The money recycling apparatus1monitors whether, through an operation of the operation unit11, an execution command has been issued for executing the money deposit process (Step S1), an execution command has been issued for executing the money dispensing process (Step S2), and an execution command has been issued for executing a money-dispensing setting process (Step S3). If an execution command for executing the money deposit process has been issued (Yes at Step S1), the money recycling apparatus1performs the money deposit process (Step S4).

Specifically, the money recycling apparatus1allows money to be deposited at the inlet16and awaits a command to begin the money deposit process. Alternatively, it is possible to configure so that the money recycling apparatus1automatically starts the money deposit process upon detecting deposited money.

Once money deposit is started, the deposited money is transported by the deposited-money transport unit19ato the denomination-wise money accommodating unit17, where the money is accommodated. Information, such as, deposited amount of each denomination and deposited time, is stored in the storage unit15. In this way, the number of money and the sum of money, of each denomination, stored in the denomination-wise money accommodating unit17can be managed at any time. Upon completion of the money deposit process, the system control is returned to Step S1.

If an execution command for executing the money dispensing process has been issued (Yes at Step S2), the money recycling apparatus1determines whether, through the operation of the operation unit11, a manager mode has been selected (Step S5). If the manager mode is not selected (No at Step S5), the money recycling apparatus1performs the money dispensing process in a cashier mode (Step S6). In the cashier mode, the money dispensing is carried out based on commands issued mainly by the cashier responsible for the register. The cashier mode is explained in detail later.

If the manager mode is selected (Yes at Step S5), the money recycling apparatus1performs the money dispensing process in the manager mode (Step S7). In the manager mode, the money dispensing is carried out based on commands issued by a manager who is an administrator. The manager mode is explained in detail later. If an execution command for the money-dispensing setting process has been issued (Yes at Step S3), the money recycling apparatus1performs the money-dispensing setting process (Step S8).

A process flow of the money-dispensing setting process is explained concretely with reference toFIG. 4.

Upon commencement of the money-dispensing setting process, the money recycling apparatus1monitors whether the user has specified details of a money dispensing pattern (Step S11), a correspondence relation between the register and the money dispensing pattern (Step S12), details of substitute money dispensing (Step S13), a setting to allow/skip reading of the barcode (Step S14), and a setting to allow/skip substitute money dispensing execution (Step S15). Also it is monitored whether settings are accepted by the user (Step S16).

If there is a specification of any of the processes corresponding to Step S11to Step S15, specification details are temporarily stored in the storage unit15(Step S17). If the settings are accepted by the user by selecting OK (Yes at Step S16), the specification details that are temporarily stored at Step S17are stored as setting information, and are applied to the subsequent processes (Step S18). Upon completion of accommodating of the setting information, the system control is returned to Step S1.

In the money-dispensing setting process, various types of screens are displayed on the display unit13(hereinafter, “display”) for assisting operations relating to settings, etc. The details of the money-dispensing setting process, including the screens that are displayed on the display, are explained in detail below.

Upon commencement of the money-dispensing setting process, a screen shown inFIG. 5is displayed on the display. This screen is used for selecting setting items. When the user selects items represented by rectangles (31to33and36) on the screen by using the operation unit11, corresponding screens are displayed. The selected one of display sections (34a,34b,35a, and35b) represented by a circle is displayed in highlight. The setting details can be changed by selecting one of the options for each item by using the operation unit11.

InFIG. 5, when “Money dispensing pattern setting”31is selected, the screen on the display switches to a screen shown inFIG. 6. This screen is used for setting a money dispensing pattern.

In a table41shown inFIG. 6, the rows represent money dispensing patterns and the columns represent the number of banknotes to be dispensed in each denomination. That is, according toFIG. 6, in a money dispensing pattern A, for example, zero banknotes of 20 USD, five banknotes of 10 USD, six banknotes of 5 USD, and 20 banknotes of 1 USD are dispensed.

Any numeric value can be entered in the table41by using the operation unit11. In the table41, details of the money dispensing pattern are specified by entering the number of banknotes of each denomination to be dispensed (Yes at Step S11). A total amount corresponding to each of the money dispensing pattern is displayed on the right of the table41. After the setting of the money dispensing pattern is completed, selecting “Back”42returns the screen on the display to the screen shown inFIG. 5. The setting details of the money dispensing pattern are stored in the storage unit15(Step S17).

The number of money dispensing patterns need not be limited to six. It can be prepared two or more money dispensing patterns. For example, it is possible to prepare six or more money dispensing patterns or six or less money dispensing patterns can also be set. Furthermore, a specification method of the money dispensing pattern need not be limited to specify the number of banknotes, but can be specified a sum of each denomination. The table41can display the amount of banknotes as a sum instead of the number of banknotes. The number of banknotes or the sum or both can be displayed by calculating based on the inputted number of banknotes or the sum, and value of each denomination.

In all the setting screens, including the ones that will be explained below, setting operations can be performed by selecting desired items from a displayed list instead of by entering any numeric values and characters.

When a “Correspondence relation between register and money dispensing pattern setting”32shown inFIG. 5is selected, the screen on the display switches to a screen shown inFIG. 7. This screen is used for setting a correspondence relation between each register and the money dispensing pattern.

When display sections (52aand53) represented by rectangles with solid lines on the screen are selected by using the operation unit11, processing corresponding to the displayed contents are executed. In display sections (51and52b) represented by squares with dotted lines, any character, etc., can be entered by using the operation unit11.

The screen shown inFIG. 7shows the correspondence relation between each register and the money dispensing pattern. For example, as shown inFIG. 7, the money dispensing pattern A corresponds to the register with a register No. 01, and a money dispensing pattern B corresponds to the register with a register No. 02. The user can use the operation unit11to set the desired money dispensing pattern corresponding to each register No.

Instead of entering the money dispensing pattern for each register No., the user can set the same money dispensing pattern to all the registers in one operation. Specifically, the money dispensing pattern displayed in the display section52bis set to all the registers by executing “Set to all”52a. With this feature, the workload of the user can be reduced. The money dispensing pattern displayed in the display section52bcan also be set by selecting the money dispensing pattern by using the operation unit11.

The correspondence relation between the register and the money dispensing pattern can be set only for the registers that are in use. This allows the user to skip setting the money dispensing pattern of the registers that are not in use. For example, in the present embodiment, the number of registers is set as six beforehand; therefore, as shown inFIG. 7, the money dispensing pattern is set only corresponding to the registers with register No. 1 to register No. 6. Setting of the number of registers can be done separately. Alternatively, the setting screen can be set not to show the register Nos. that are not in use.

In this manner, the correspondence relation between the register Nos. and the money dispensing patterns is set (Yes at Step S12). After these settings are completed, selecting “Back”53returns the screen on the display to the screen shown inFIG. 5. The setting details of the correspondence relation between the registers and the money dispensing patterns are stored in the storage unit15(Step S17).

When a display section33representing a “Substitute money dispensing setting” shown inFIG. 5is selected, the screen on the display switches to a screen shown inFIG. 8. This screen is used for setting details of substitute money dispensing.

When a display section64represented by a rectangle with a solid line on the screen is selected by using the operation unit11, processing corresponding to the displayed content is executed. In display sections (61and62) represented by squares with dotted lines, any numeric value, etc., can be entered by using the operation unit11. The selected one of display sections (63aand63b) represented by circles is displayed in highlight. Any one of the options can be selected by using the operation unit11.

During money dispensing process, when money to be dispensed falls short, in place of the denomination that has fallen short, the shortfall amount is dispensed in a substitute denomination. This is called substitute money dispensing. Specifically, for example, if one 20 USD banknote to be dispensed falls short, 10 USD banknote is used as the substitute denomination, and two 10 USD banknotes are dispensed in place of the 20 USD banknote that is the shortfall amount.

The display section61represents up to how many lower levels of the substitute denomination can be used. Specifically, for example, inFIG. 8, where “2” is set, and substitute money dispensing is being performed for the case where 20 USD banknote falls short, 10 USD banknote which is a first lower level denomination from 20 USD, and 5 USD banknote which is a second lower level denomination from 20 USD can be used for the substitute money dispensing. However, 1 USD banknote cannot be used for the substitute money dispensing.

The display section62represents an upper limit of the number of banknotes that can be used in the substitute money dispensing. If “20” is set, as shown inFIG. 8, the substitute money dispensing is not performed in cases where the number of banknotes to be dispensed in the substitute denomination exceeds20.

Because the denomination and the number of banknotes in the substitute money dispensing can be restricted as explained above, a situation in which the user ends up with unwanted substitute money dispensing can be avoided. For example, if five 50 USD banknotes, which are a part of the amount of money to be dispensed, falls short, by restricting the settings of the substitute money dispensing as explained above, the situation in which 250 banknotes of 1 USD are dispensed in place of the five 50 USD banknotes can be avoided.

By selecting either of the display sections63aand63b, the user can specify a course of action to be taken when the substitute money dispensing is not possible during money dispensing. If “End money dispensing”63ais selected, money dispensing is terminated at the instant where the substitute money dispensing is not possible.

If “Change settings”63bis selected, when the substitute money dispensing is not possible, money dispensing is temporarily suspended, and the user is allowed to change the details of the substitute money dispensing. If the substitute money dispensing is enabled by changing the settings, the substitute money dispensing that had been suspended is resumed.

In this manner, the details of the substitute money dispensing are set (Yes at Step S13). Selecting “Back”64on the screen returns the screen on the display to the screen shown inFIG. 5. The details of the substitute money dispensing are stored in the storage unit15(Step S17).

For the item “Reading of barcode” on the screen shown inFIG. 5, if “Allow”34ais selected, reading of the barcode by the barcode reading unit12is enabled (Step S14). On the other hand, if “Skip”34bis selected, reading of the barcode is not performed. These setting details are stored in the storage unit15(Step S17).

For the item “Execution of substitute money dispensing” on the screen shown inFIG. 5, if “Allow”35ais selected, the substitute money dispensing is enabled based on the setting details explained above with reference toFIG. 8when there is a shortage of a banknote of a denomination to be dispensed during money dispensing (Step S15). On the other hand, if “Skip”35bis selected, the substitute money dispensing is not performed. These setting details are stored in the storage unit15(Step S17).

If “OK”36is selected inFIG. 5, it is judged that the user has accepted the settings (Yes at Step S16). The details set for all the setting items are stored in the storage unit15as setting information (Step S18), and the system control is returned to Step S1. Subsequent processes are performed based on the setting information stored in the storage unit15.

A flow of the money dispensing process (Step S6or Step S7shown inFIG. 3) is explained next with reference to a flowchart shown inFIG. 9.

Upon commencement of the money dispensing process, the money recycling apparatus1monitors whether there has been a money-dispensing mode specification (Step S21), a start money dispensing specification (Step S22), and an end money dispensing specification by the user (Step S23).

When there is a money-dispensing mode specification (Yes at Step S21), specification details are temporarily stored in the storage unit15(Step S24). If the money-dispensing mode specification is performed a plurality of times before the start money dispensing specification, the last specification is treated as valid.

When there is a start money dispensing specification (Yes at Step S22) by the user, it is determined whether the money dispensing can be performed if the money dispensing is started in the specified money dispensing mode. That is, it is determined whether there is a shortage of any denomination (Step S25). Specifically, the determination is made by comparing the number of banknotes of each denomination stored in the denomination-wise money accommodating unit17and the number of banknotes of each denomination in the specified money dispensing mode.

If, as a result of the comparison, it is determined that money dispensing can be performed (No at Step S25), the money dispensing is performed based on the specified money dispensing mode (Step S26). That is, money dispensing is performed according to the denominations and the number of banknotes set in the money dispensing mode in the table41shown inFIG. 6.

On the other hand, if there is a shortage of banknotes of a denomination to be dispensed (Yes at Step S25), it is determined whether the substitute money dispensing can be performed for the amount to be dispensed in banknotes of the denomination which has fallen short if the substitute money dispensing explained above is performed (Step S27). If the substitute money dispensing is allowed according to the setting, and the denomination-wise money accommodating unit17contains sufficient number of banknotes of the substitute denomination to enable the substitute money dispensing, the substitute money dispensing is determined to be applicable.

Alternatively the user can be allowed to select whether the substitute money dispensing is to be allowed or skipped at Step S25where it is confirmed that there is a shortage of banknotes of any denomination. Whether to allow or skip the substitute money dispensing is set beforehand in the money dispensing process. However, by enabling the selection on the substitute money dispensing again at the step where confirmation is made as to whether there is a shortage of any denomination, the effort of returning to the settings of the substitute money dispensing to change the settings and restarting the money dispensing operation can be avoided.

If it is determined that the substitute money dispensing can be performed (Yes at Step S27), the amount of banknotes of the denomination which has fallen short is dispensed in the substitute denomination (Step S28). On the other hand, if it is determined that the substitute money dispensing cannot be performed (No at Step S27), a message indicating that the money dispensing in the specified money dispensing mode is not possible is displayed on the display (Step S29). At this point, the user can be allowed to select whether banknotes of the substitute denomination which are only a part of the amount of the shortfalls should be dispensed.

After the processes at Steps S26, S28, and S29are performed, the system control is returned to Step S21. When there is a specification for ending the money dispensing by the user (Yes at Step S23), the system control is returned to Step S1.

In the money dispensing process also, various types of screens are displayed on the display to enable operations relating to settings, etc. The money dispensing process including the display contents thereof is explained separately for the cashier mode (Step S6) and the manager mode (Step S7).

A money dispensing process in the cashier mode is explained in detail below.

Upon commencement of the money dispensing process in the cashier mode, a screen shown inFIG. 10is displayed on the display. This screen is used by the user for selecting the money dispensing mode.

The selected one of display sections (71to73) represented by circles is displayed in highlight. Any of these display sections can be selected by using the operation unit11. In display sections (74and75) represented by rectangles with dotted lines, characters, etc., can be entered by using the operation unit11. When display sections (77and78) represented by rectangles with solid lines are selected, processing corresponding to the display contents are executed.

When the display section71is selected, the money dispensing is performed in a money-dispensing pattern specification mode (Step S21). That is, the money dispensing is performed in the money dispensing pattern displayed in the display section74. For example, as shown inFIG. 10, money dispensing is performed in the “Dispensing pattern A”.

If the display section72is selected, the money dispensing is performed in “Register specification mode” (Step S21). That is, the money dispensing is performed in the money dispensing pattern corresponding to register with the register No. displayed on the display section75. For example, as shown inFIG. 10, the money dispensing is performed in the money dispensing pattern corresponding to the register with a register No. 05. The correspondence relation between the registers and the money dispensing patterns is set beforehand by the money-dispensing setting process (Step S12, etc.) explained above with reference toFIG. 7.

When the display section73is selected, the money dispensing is performed in “Barcode reading mode” (Step S21). That is, the money dispensing is performed in the money dispensing pattern corresponding to the register with a register No. read by the barcode reading unit12.

Specifically, upon presentation of the barcode to the barcode reading unit12, the barcode reading unit12reads the barcode. The register No. is specified based on the barcode, and the money dispensing is performed in the money dispensing pattern corresponding to the register with the register No. that is specified by the barcode. However, if reading of the barcode is set to “Skip” in the money-dispensing setting process explained above with reference toFIG. 5, selection of the barcode reading mode is disabled on the screen.

The money dispensing mode specified in this manner is temporarily stored in the storage unit15(Step S24). Because the selected one of the display sections (71to73) is displayed in highlight, which money dispensing mode is selected can be easily confirmed.

When “Start money dispensing”77is executed in a state where any of the money dispensing modes is specified, the money dispensing is started in the specified money dispensing mode (Yes at Step S22). Thereafter, processes corresponding to Steps S25to S29are accordingly performed. The money dispensing process is realized by sequential transport of the money accommodated in the denomination-wise money accommodating unit17by the dispensing-money transport unit19b, and discharge of the money from the outlet18.

The screen shown inFIG. 10is displayed on the display as before even after performing the processes corresponding to Step S26, Step S28, or Step S29, and the process corresponding to Step S21can be performed again. In this case, the money dispensing mode that was specified in the previous process remains selected. If the money dispensing is to be performed again in the same money dispensing mode as the previous process, it can be done merely by executing “Start money dispensing”77again without having to go through the operation of specifying the money dispensing mode.

Selecting “Back”78(corresponding to Yes at Step S23) returns the system control to Step S1without performing money dispensing. In an information display field76on the screen shown inFIG. 10, information indicating whether substitute money dispensing is on, a message indicating that money dispensing by the process corresponding to Step S29is disabled, etc., is displayed.

In this manner, in the money-dispensing pattern specification mode in the cashier mode, the user can specify the money dispensing details by specifying the money dispensing pattern. Therefore, if predetermined money dispensing patterns are set beforehand in the money recycling apparatus1, during money dispensing process, the user can omit the operation of specifying the number of banknotes or the amount of each denomination. Consequently, the user can perform the operation of replenishing the change fund quickly. Furthermore, errors in specification operation can be avoided as much as possible.

Because selection can be made from among a plurality of the money dispensing patterns, the user can select suitable money dispensing details depending on the situation.

For example, the details of the change fund to be replenished in the register can vary according to the type of sales counter, whether it is a holiday or a special bargain day, etc. Therefore, by setting the money dispensing pattern suitable for each of such situations beforehand, the user can perform suitable money dispensing by merely selecting the already set pattern.

When setting the money dispensing patterns shown inFIG. 6, the name of the money dispensing pattern can be changed. For example, the patterns can be named “for food section”, “for furniture section”, “for holidays”, “for weekdays”, “for special bargain day”, etc. This allows the user to easily select the desired dispensing pattern without having to keep in mind which money dispensing pattern has which money dispensing details.

Furthermore, in the register specification mode of the cashier mode, the user can specify the money dispensing details by specifying the register. Consequently, by establishing a correlation between a suitable money dispensing pattern and each of the registers beforehand, the user can perform suitable money dispensing merely by specifying the register in which the change fund is to be replenished.

Particularly, when a fixed cashier is assigned to each register, when replenishing the change fund of the assigned register, the cashier can perform suitable money dispensing merely by specifying the register assigned to the cashier by the cash register information. Consequently, the cashier can easily perform the operation of replenishing the change fund. Specifically, for example, in the money recycling apparatus1, the money dispensing details can be specified by simply entering the name of the cashier.

Furthermore, in the barcode reading mode, the user can specify the money dispensing details by presenting the barcode. Therefore, by preparing suitable barcodes beforehand, the user can easily specify the money dispensing details. Because the money dispensing details are determined by the barcode, mistakes in input operation can be avoided.

The money recycling apparatus1can have a function of printing the barcode. For example, if a barcode indicating the cash register information can be printed on a printing paper, the barcode reading mode can be made easier to use.

In the present embodiment, the money recycling apparatus1includes the barcode reading unit12. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. As another embodiment of the present invention, the money recycling apparatus1can include an information reading unit that reads the cash register information. For example, instead of or in addition to the barcode reading unit12, a device that reads information from an IC card or a magnetic card can be used. The user can specify the money dispensing details, for example, by causing the money recycling apparatus1to read the IC card or the magnetic card on which the cash register information is recorded. Alternatively, the money recycling apparatus1can use fingerprint or face authentication.

Next, a money dispensing process in the manager mode is explained in detail below.

Upon commencement of the money dispensing process in the manager mode, a screen shown inFIG. 11is displayed on the display. This screen is used for selecting the money dispensing mode, etc. A display section81represented by a circle can be selected by using the operation unit11. When already selected, the display section81is displayed in highlight. In display sections (82and83) represented by rectangles with dotted lines, characters, etc., can be entered by using the operation unit11. When display sections (86and87) represented by rectangles with solid lines are selected, display contents are executed.

When the display section81is selected, the money dispensing is performed in “money-dispensing pattern specification mode” (Step S21). That is, money dispensing is repeated the number of times displayed in the display section83based on the money dispensing pattern displayed in the display section82. For example, as shown inFIG. 11, the money dispensing pattern A is repeated ten times.

If “Register specification mode”84is selected, a screen shown inFIG. 12is displayed on the display. This screen is used for specifying the register. One or a plurality of display sections91represented by circles can be selected by using the operation unit11. The display section91of the selected register No. is displayed in highlight. To the right of each display section91, the register No. and the money dispensing pattern corresponding to the register with the register No. are displayed. The correspondence relation between the registers and the money dispensing patterns is set beforehand by the money-dispensing setting process (Step S12, etc.) explained above with reference toFIG. 7.

When any of the display sections91is selected, the money dispensing is performed in the register specification mode for the selected register No. (Step S21). That is, each of the display sections91is money-dispensing permission information that indicates whether money dispensing for the relevant register is to be performed. Money dispensing is performed sequentially for the registers corresponding to the selected display sections91that are displayed in highlight based on the corresponding money dispensing patterns.

For example, as shown inFIG. 12, the display sections91corresponding to the registers with the register Nos. “01”, “02”, “05”, and “06” are selected. Therefore, money dispensing is performed sequentially in the money dispensing pattern A in the register with the register No. 01, in the money dispensing pattern B in the register with the register No. 02, in the money dispensing pattern A in the register with the register No. 05, and in the money dispensing pattern A in the register with the register No. 06.

Furthermore, when display sections (92to94) represented by rectangles with solid lines on the screen are selected by using the operation unit11, display contents are executed. For example, when “Select all”92is executed, all the display sections91will be selected. Therefore, when all the registers are to be selected, it can be done merely by executing the display section92; thus, effort required for selecting of each register can be saved.

An example is explained above in which selection of each of the display sections91is executed after entering into the register specification mode. However, alternatively, the setting can be performed in the money-dispensing setting process.

Specifically, in the process corresponding to Step S12explained above with reference toFIG. 7, the money-dispensing permission information can be set for each register No. similar to the display sections91. The money-dispensing permission information set for each register is stored as the setting details in the storage unit12. At the step of the register specification mode, when the setting details that are set beforehand are reflected in the contents ofFIG. 12as initial settings, selection details of the display sections91can be changed as required.

Through such settings, if a register to be replenished with the change fund was found, the register can be set beforehand. When the actual money dispensing is performed in the register specification mode, merely “Start money dispensing”93shown inFIG. 12needs to be executed; thus, effort required for selecting of each register can be saved.

Furthermore, after selection of the registers is completed, confirmation of whether money dispensing in a corresponding money dispensing pattern is possible, that is, whether the number of banknotes of each denomination in the denomination-wise money accommodating unit17is sufficient for the money dispensing, can be shown on the display.

The money dispensing modes specified as explained above are temporarily stored in the storage unit15(Step S24). Upon execution of “Start money dispensing” (77and86) with any of the money dispensing modes specified, the money dispensing in the specified money dispensing mode is started (Yes at Step S22).

Thereafter, the processes corresponding to Steps S25to S29are suitably performed. The money dispensing process is realized by sequential transport of the money accommodated in the denomination-wise money accommodating unit17by the dispensing-money transport unit19b, and discharge of the money from the outlet18.

When the money dispensing is being performed, for example, a section of the screen corresponding to the money dispensing shown inFIG. 12is made to blink. Through such a display, for which register money dispensing is being performed can be checked.

The screen shown inFIG. 11orFIG. 12is displayed on the display as before even after performing the processes corresponding to Step S26, Step S28, or Step S29, and the process corresponding to Step S21can be performed again. In this case, the money dispensing mode that was specified in the previous process remains selected. If the user desires the money dispensing to be executed again in the same money dispensing mode as the previous process, the user can do so merely by executing “Start money dispensing”77without having to go through the operation of specifying the money dispensing mode.

Selecting “Back” (87and94) (corresponding to Yes at Step S23) returns the system control to Step S1without performing money dispensing. In an information display field85on the screen shown inFIG. 11or an information display field95on the screen shown inFIG. 12, information indicating whether substitute money dispensing is on, a message indicating that money dispensing by the process corresponding to Step S29is disabled, etc., is displayed.

When the money dispensing is performed in a plurality of the money dispensing patterns with a single start money dispensing specification, the previous process of money dispensing is completed before the next process of money dispensing is started. Detection information of the container detecting sensor arranged in the outlet18is used for determining a timing at which the next process of money dispensing is to be started. Specifically, the next process of money dispensing is started at the timing when it is detected that the money container is set again after it is detected that the money container has been removed from the outlet18after completion of the previous process of the money dispensing. Through such processes, after performing the money dispensing start specification, as the dispensing of the change fund of one register ends, the user can perform dispensing of the change funds for a plurality of the registers merely by setting a different money container of each of the registers one after another at the outlet18.

Furthermore, for starting the money dispensing in the money dispensing mode explained above, the user is required to execute “Start money dispensing” (77,86, and93). However, the moment the user specifies the money dispensing mode, it can be treated as if the user has made the start money dispensing specification. So the user only needs to specify the money dispensing mode, and set the money container in the outlet18thereafter to perform the subsequent money dispensing.

Various other methods apart from the method explained above can be adopted as a method for determining the timing at which a new process of money dispensing is started. For example, the timing can be after a predetermined time period elapses since completion of the previous process of money dispensing or when predetermined operations are performed by the user using the operation unit11, etc.

In the money-dispensing pattern specification mode of the manager mode, the user can specify the money dispensing details by specifying the money dispensing pattern and a repeat count. Therefore, if predetermined money dispensing patterns are set beforehand, during money dispensing, the user need not to specify the number of banknotes or the amount of each denomination. Consequently, the user can perform the operation of replenishing the change fund quickly. Furthermore, mistakes during specification operation can be avoided as much as possible.

For example, when a single manager has to perform money dispensing operations of the change funds for a plurality of registers having the same change fund details, the manager can specify the number of the registers as the repeat count followed by start money dispensing. Through such settings, the manager can easily perform the desired money dispensing sequentially.

In the register specification mode of the manager mode, the money dispensing details can be specified by specifying a single register or a plurality of the registers. Therefore, by establishing a correlation between a suitable money dispensing pattern and each of the registers beforehand, suitable money dispensing can be performed by the manager merely by specifying the register in which the change fund is to be replenished.

For example, when a single manager has to perform money dispensing operations of the change fund for a plurality of registers, the manager can specify the register followed by start money dispensing. Through such settings, the manager can easily perform the desired money dispensing.

Furthermore, in the manager mode, the money dispensing is performed a plurality of times with a single start money dispensing specification. Consequently, the chance that the amount of dispensing money involved is large is high. Therefore, indiscreet use of these money dispensing modes is not desirable from safety point of view. However, as explained above, these modes can be selected only in the manager mode. Consequently, indiscreet use of these money dispensing modes can be prevented.

To further enhance safety, the user can be made to go through a verification process by entering a password before entering into the manager mode. Furthermore, to prevent any undue changing of the setting details of the money dispensing process, a predetermined verification process can be conducted before the money-dispensing setting process is performed.

Thus, as explained above, the money recycling apparatus1includes the denomination-wise money accommodating units17that accommodates therein money in a plurality of the denominations, the outlet18, the money recycling unit21that receives and dispenses the money, the control unit14that controls each of the components mentioned above and performs the money dispensing, and the storage unit15that stores therein a plurality of types of the money dispensing patterns indicating the number of money of each denomination. The control unit14specifies at least one money dispensing pattern based on the specification by the user, and performs the money dispensing in the specified money dispensing pattern.

Therefore, with the money recycling apparatus1, the user can specify the money dispensing details that have been set beforehand merely by specifying the money dispensing mode. Consequently, when performing money dispensing of a predetermined number of banknotes of each denomination, the user can easily specify the money dispensing details.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The present invention is useful in the field of money recycling apparatuses that include a dispensing apparatus or a money dispensing function that performs dispensing of the change fund for usage in the registers.

EXPLANATIONS OF LETTERS OR NUMERALS

1: Money recycling apparatus

11: Operation unit

12: Barcode reading unit

13: Display unit

14: Control unit

15: Storage unit

20: Recognition unit

21: Money recycling unit