Patent Publication Number: US-2022237980-A1

Title: Banknote management method and banknote management system

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is entitled to (or claims) the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-012378, filed on Jan. 28, 2021, the disclosure of which including the specification, drawings and abstract is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates to a banknote management method and a banknote management system. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Conventionally, various banknote management methods and banknote management systems are known as disclosed in PTL 1, for example. 
     In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the cleanliness of banknotes, especially with regard to the adhesion of bacteria and viruses to banknotes. 
     CITATION LIST 
     Patent Literature 
     
         
         PTL 1 
         Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-056010 
       
    
     SUMMARY 
     The banknote management method according to the present disclosure is a banknote management method performed by a computer, and includes receiving the serial number of the banknote and first disinfection information that is information relating to the state of the disinfection of the banknote, and recording the serial number and the first disinfection information in association with each other in a recording apparatus. In the present disclosure, the term computer is a concept that encompasses not only electronic calculators with processors or CPUs (Central Processing Units), but also the processor itself and the CPU itself. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1A  is a schematic view of a banknote management system according to Embodiment 1; 
         FIG. 1B  is a schematic view of a banknote management system according to a modification of Embodiment 1; 
         FIG. 1C  is a schematic view of a banknote management system according to another modification of Embodiment 1; 
         FIG. 2  is a sequence diagram illustrating a banknote management method in the banknote management system according to Embodiment 1; 
         FIG. 3  is a flowchart illustrating a banknote management method in the banknote management system according to Embodiment 1; 
         FIG. 4  is a flowchart illustrating the banknote management method in the banknote management system according to Embodiment 1; 
         FIG. 5  is a schematic view of a banknote management system according to Embodiment 2; 
         FIG. 6  is a sequence diagram illustrating the banknote management method in the banknote management system according to Embodiment 2; 
         FIG. 7  is a schematic view of a banknote management system according to Embodiment 3; 
         FIG. 8  is a sequence diagram illustrating the banknote management method in the banknote management system according to Embodiment 3; 
         FIG. 9  is a schematic view of a banknote management system according to Embodiment 4; 
         FIG. 10  is a schematic view illustrating an internal structure of a banknote recycler; and 
         FIG. 11  is a block diagram of processing circuitry that performs computer-based operations in accordance with the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Disinfection of banknotes can eliminate or reduce the effects of bacteria and viruses, but no known banknote management method or system can control the state of disinfection of banknotes, such as whether or not each banknote has been disinfected, or to what extent it has been disinfected. If the status of disinfection of banknotes is not known, smooth processing of banknotes may not be possible. 
     An object of the present disclosure is to provide a banknote management method and a banknote management system that support the smooth processing of banknotes. 
     In addition, in the banknote management method according to the present disclosure, the first disinfection information may be information representing whether the banknote has been disinfected. 
     In addition, in the banknote management method according to the present disclosure, the first disinfection information may be information representing the degree of the disinfection of the banknote. In addition, the first disinfection information may be an index associated with the residual quantity or activity of the bacteria or virus adhering on the banknote. 
     In addition, in the banknote management method according to the present disclosure, the banknote may include a first banknote, and a second banknote that is stored in a stacked state on the first banknote, the banknote management method may further include receiving a serial number of the first banknote, receiving first disinfection information of the first banknote that is information relating to a state of disinfection of the first banknote, receiving a serial number of the second banknote, and receiving first disinfection information of the second banknote that is information relating to a state of disinfection of the second banknote, and updating the first disinfection information of the first banknote in accordance with the first disinfection information of the second banknote when the first disinfection information of the second banknote indicates that the first disinfection information of the second banknote is inferior to the first disinfection information of the first banknote in terms of a state of disinfection. 
     In addition, in the banknote management method according to the present disclosure, the updating of the first disinfection information of the first banknote in accordance with the first disinfection information of the second banknote may be replacement of the first disinfection information of the first banknote with the first disinfection information of the second banknote. 
     In addition, in the banknote management method according to the present disclosure, the computer may be communicatively connected to a first banknote processing apparatus, the first banknote processing apparatus including a first serial number reading apparatus and a first disinfection apparatus, the serial number may be a serial number of the banknote read by the first serial number reading apparatus, and the first disinfection information may be information relating to a state of disinfection of the banknote performed by the first disinfection apparatus. In addition, the computer may be separated from the first banknote processing apparatus. In addition, the computer may be incorporated in the first banknote processing apparatus (that is, the control apparatus (CPU) of the first banknote processing apparatus may function as the computer). 
     In addition, in the banknote management method according to the present disclosure, the computer may be communicatively connected to a second banknote processing apparatus, the second banknote processing apparatus including a second serial number reading apparatus, and the banknote management method may further include receiving a serial number of the banknote read by the second serial number reading apparatus; and determining details of a process to be performed on the banknote by the second banknote processing apparatus in accordance with the first disinfection information. In addition, the computer may be incorporated in the second banknote processing apparatus (that is, the control apparatus (CPU) of the second banknote processing apparatus may function as the computer). 
     In addition, in the banknote management method according to the present disclosure, the determining of the details of the process to be performed on the banknote by the second banknote processing apparatus may include determining whether disinfection is to be performed on the banknote by a second disinfection apparatus provided in the second banknote processing apparatus. 
     In addition, the banknote management method according to the present disclosure may further include receiving second disinfection information that is information relating to a state of disinfection of the banknote performed by the second disinfection apparatus provided in the second banknote processing apparatus, and updating the first disinfection information recorded in the recording apparatus in accordance with the second disinfection information when, after the serial number is read by the first serial number reading apparatus and the banknote is disinfected by the first disinfection apparatus, the serial number is read by the second serial number reading apparatus, and the banknote is disinfected by the second disinfection apparatus. 
     In addition, in the banknote management method according to the present disclosure, the recording apparatus may be installed in a container in which the banknote is stored when the banknote is transported. The container may be cassettes, pouches (bags for sealing), bags, etc. 
     In addition, in the banknote management method according to the present disclosure, the disinfection may be performed through at least one of irradiation of the banknote with an ultraviolet ray, contact between the banknote and a disinfecting material, and heating of the banknote. The ultraviolet ray need only be light with a wavelength λ of 10 nm≤λ≤400 nm, and for example, light of 260 nm may be used as an ultraviolet ray. The disinfecting material may be any of gas, liquid and solid. 
     In addition, the banknote management method according to the present disclosure may further include determining an index representing the ease of handling of the banknote in accordance with the first disinfection information; and outputting the index. The outputting may be indication on a screen of the computer or the banknote processing apparatus storing the banknote, printing to paper, or transmission of information to the computer used by one (e.g., security transport institution) that handles the banknote. 
     In addition, a banknote management system according to the present disclosure includes a first banknote processing apparatus including a first serial number reading apparatus configured to read a serial number of a banknote, and a first disinfection apparatus configured to disinfect the banknote, a recording apparatus, a computer configured to receive the serial number of the banknote read by the first serial number reading apparatus and first disinfection information, and record the serial number and the first disinfection information in association with each other in the recording apparatus, the first disinfection information being information relating to a state of disinfection of the banknote disinfected by the first disinfection apparatus. In addition, the computer may be separated from the first banknote processing apparatus. In addition, the computer may be incorporated in the first banknote processing apparatus (that is, the control apparatus (CPU) of the first banknote processing apparatus may function as the computer). 
     In addition, the banknote management system according to the present disclosure may further include the second banknote processing apparatus including a second serial number reading apparatus configured to read the serial number of the banknote. The computer may be configured to determine details of a process to be performed on the banknote by the second banknote processing apparatus in accordance with the first disinfection information. In addition, the computer may be separated from the second banknote processing apparatus. In addition, the computer may be incorporated in the second banknote processing apparatus (that is, the control apparatus (CPU) of the second banknote processing apparatus may function as the computer). 
     In addition, in the banknote management system according to the present disclosure, the second banknote processing apparatus may include a second disinfection apparatus configured to disinfect the banknote, and the computer may be configured to update the first disinfection information recorded in the recording apparatus in accordance with second disinfection information when, after the serial number of the banknote is read by the first serial number reading apparatus and the banknote is disinfected by the first disinfection apparatus, the serial number of the banknote is read by the second serial number reading apparatus, and the banknote is disinfected by the second disinfection apparatus. 
     In addition, in the banknote management system according to the present disclosure, the first banknote processing apparatus and the second banknote processing apparatus may be disposed in a same facility. In this case, the transport of banknotes between these apparatuses may be performed through a container, or through a transport apparatus or a transport robot that does not require manual operations. 
     In addition, in the banknote management system according to the present disclosure, the first banknote processing apparatus and the second banknote processing apparatus may be disposed in facilities different from each other. 
     In addition, the banknote management system according to the present disclosure may further include a container configured to be detachable to the first banknote processing apparatus and the second banknote processing apparatus, and to store the banknote in an externally inaccessible manner. 
     In addition, the banknote management method according to the present disclosure may further include erasing the first disinfection information recorded associated with the serial number in the recording apparatus or updating the first disinfection information recorded associated with the serial number in the recording apparatus to information indicating that disinfection has not been made when the banknote is ejected from the first banknote processing apparatus or the second banknote processing apparatus in the state where it can be directly touched by the user of the first banknote processing apparatus or the second banknote processing apparatus. 
     In addition, in the banknote management method according to the present disclosure, the index indicating the ease of handling of the banknote may be a fee for handling the banknote, the type (category or level) of the material that should be put on or the tool that should be used for handling the banknote. 
     In addition, in the banknote management method according to the present disclosure, the first disinfection information may be an index associated with the residual quantity or activity of the bacteria or virus adhering on the banknote. 
     In addition, in the banknote management method according to the present disclosure, the first disinfection information may be automatically updated in accordance with the time length for which the banknote remains in the first banknote processing apparatus. In other words, the computer may change the first disinfection information so as to indicate that the state of the disinfection is superior over time. For example, in the case where the target virus is known to be inactivated over time, the first disinfection information may be changed to information indicating that the state of the disinfection is superior over time after the disinfection. In addition, in the case where the banknote is ejected from the first banknote processing apparatus or the second banknote processing apparatus in the state where it can be directly touched by the worker or the user, the first banknote processing apparatus or the second banknote processing apparatus may send a predetermined signal to the computer. The predetermined signal is a signal that indicates ejection of a banknote in a state where it can be directly touched and the serial number of this banknote. When receiving this signal, the computer may send, to the recording apparatus, a command to erase the first disinfection information recorded in association with the serial number of the banknote, or update it to information indicating that disinfection has not been made. 
     The present disclosure can provide a banknote management method and a banknote management system that support the smooth processing of banknotes. 
     The following is a detailed description of an embodiment of the present disclosure with reference to the drawings. Although this specification describes configurations or concepts with counter suffix such as “first” and “second”, such as “the first banknote processing apparatus  10 ”, these suffixes are merely a convenience to help distinguish multiple identical or similar configurations or concepts from each other. Therefore, in some cases, the configuration or concept with the suffix “first” and the configuration or concept with the suffix “second” are replaceable with each other. 
     Embodiment 1 
       FIG. 1A  is a schematic view of a banknote management system  1  according to Embodiment 1. The banknote management system  1  includes a first banknote processing apparatus  10 , a computer  30  and a recording apparatus  40 . 
     The first banknote processing apparatus  10  is an apparatus for processing banknotes that is installed in a financial institution such as a bank, a distribution store such as convenience store or a facility such as a security transport institution. Specific examples of it include a banknote coin depositing machine, a banknote coin depositing and dispensing machine, an automatic teller machine, a tax payment machine, a money changer, a teller machine, a ticket vending machine, a vending machine, a change machine, a sales depositing and dispensing machine, a banknote counter, a banknote sorting machine, a banknote recycler, a banknote bundler, an electronic money charging machine, and a banknote disinfection apparatus. 
     The first banknote processing apparatus  10  includes a first serial number reading apparatus  11  and a first disinfection apparatus  12 . 
     The first serial number reading apparatus  11  reads the serial number from the banknote processed by the first banknote processing apparatus  10 . The first serial number reading apparatus  11  may be a recognition unit that reads serial numbers and recognizes the denomination, fitness, authentication and the like of banknotes. 
     The first disinfection apparatus  12  disinfects the banknote processed by the first banknote processing apparatus  10 . Note that the disinfection of the banknote itself may be the processing of banknotes performed by the first banknote processing apparatus  10 . The first disinfection apparatus  12  may include one or more of an ultraviolet ray irradiation apparatus, a disinfection material supply apparatus and a heating apparatus. 
     In the case where the first disinfection apparatus  12  includes an ultraviolet ray irradiation apparatus, the disinfection is performed through irradiation of an ultraviolet ray on banknotes. In the case where the first disinfection apparatus  12  includes a disinfection material supply apparatus, the disinfection is performed through a contact between the banknote and the disinfecting material. Note that the disinfecting material may be liquid, gas, or powder. In addition, in the case where the first disinfection apparatus  12  includes a heating apparatus, the disinfection is performed through heating of banknotes. 
     Note that the disinfection as used herein is the removal or reduction of the infectivity of bacteria or viruses that may cause disease in humans or other organisms, and is a concept that encompasses sterilization, making inactive condition, inactivation, or destruction. 
     The computer  30  is hardware including a computation apparatus such as a CPU, a recording apparatus that records data such as a program, and an interface that transmits and receives information to/from the outside of the computer  30  and the like. The computer  30  is configured to perform various operations when the computation apparatus executes a program recorded in the recording apparatus  40 . The computer  30  is a server apparatus communicatively connected to the first banknote processing apparatus  10  through a network such as the Internet, for example. In an exemplary implementation, the computer  30  is encompassed by or may include processing circuitry which will be discussed later with respect to  FIG. 11 . 
     The recording apparatus  40  is a recording apparatus communicatively connected to the computer  30  through a network such as the Internet, for example. Specific examples of the recording apparatus  40  include a semiconductor memory such as a read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), and a solid state drive (SSD), and a recording medium such as a hard disk drive (HDD). In an exemplary implementation, the recording apparatus  40  is encompassed by or may include a memory which will be discussed later with respect to  FIG. 11 . 
       FIG. 1B  and  FIG. 1C  are schematic views of the banknote management system  1  according to a modification of Embodiment 1. As in the modification illustrated in  FIG. 1B , the computer  30  may be provided in the first banknote processing apparatus  10 , and may be a control apparatus (processor or CPU) of the first banknote processing apparatus  10  that entirely controls the first banknote processing apparatus  10 . In addition, as in the modification illustrated in  FIG. 1C , the recording apparatus  40  may be provided in the first banknote processing apparatus  10 , and may be a recording apparatus that records programs to be executed by the computer  30  (the control apparatus of the first banknote processing apparatus  10 ) to control the first banknote processing apparatus  10 . By comparison with Embodiment 1 illustrated in  FIG. 1A , the modification illustrated in  FIG. 1B  differs only in whether the computer  30  is a separate computer separated from the first banknote processing apparatus  10 , or is a control apparatus provided in the first banknote processing apparatus  10 . In addition, by comparison with the modification illustrated in  FIG. 1B , the modification illustrated in  FIG. 1C  differs only in whether the recording apparatus  40  is a separate recording apparatus separated from the first banknote processing apparatus  10 , or is a recording apparatus provided in the first banknote processing apparatus  10 . Note that the recording apparatus  40  may be a recording apparatus provided in the computer  30  (see  FIG. 1A ) as a separate member separated from the first banknote processing apparatus  10 . 
     The description is continued below with reference to  FIG. 1A . In the banknote management system  1  with the above-described configuration, banknotes are managed in the following manner. 
       FIG. 2  is a sequence diagram illustrating a banknote management method in the banknote management system  1 . 
     First, when receiving a banknote to be processed, the first banknote processing apparatus  10  reads the serial number from the banknote by the first serial number reading apparatus  11  (S 101 ). Subsequently, with the first disinfection apparatus  12 , the first banknote processing apparatus  10  disinfects the banknote whose serial number has been read (S 102 ). Thereafter, the first banknote processing apparatus  10  sends, to the computer  30 , the serial number of this banknote and first disinfection information of this banknote (S 103 ). At this time, the first banknote processing apparatus  10  sends, to the computer  30 , the serial number and the first disinfection information in the state where they are associated with each other. The computer  30  receives the serial number sent from the first banknote processing apparatus  10  (which may be construed as the first serial number reading apparatus  11  and the first disinfection apparatus  12 ) (S 104 ). 
     The first disinfection information is information relating to the state of the disinfection of the banknote, such as information representing whether the banknote has been disinfected. In addition, the first disinfection information may be information representing the degree of the disinfection of the banknote, for example. The degree of the disinfection of the banknote may be a level represented by a numerical value or the like that is determined based on the specific aspect of the disinfection. For example, the degree of the disinfection may be represented by a numerical value that increases (or decreases) when the disinfection is performed by a method with a high disinfection effect. The degree of the disinfection may be determined based on whether the disinfection has been performed by irradiation of an ultraviolet ray, a contact with the disinfecting material, or heating. In the case where it is performed through irradiation of an ultraviolet ray, the degree of the disinfection may be determined based on the reliability of the disinfection through the irradiation of an ultraviolet ray such as the intensity, wavelength or irradiation time of the ultraviolet ray. In the case where it is performed through the contact with the disinfecting material, the degree of the disinfection may be determined based on the reliability of the disinfection through the contact with the disinfecting material such as the density or type of the material. In the case where it is performed through heating, the degree of the disinfection may be determined based on the reliability of the disinfection through the heating such as the heating temperature or heating time. As a simple example, it is possible to determine the degree of the disinfection such that the longer the irradiation time, the greater the state of the disinfection, and that the shorter the irradiation time, the lower the state of the disinfection, even with the same intensity and wavelength of the ultraviolet ray. The relationship between the condition of the disinfection and the reduction of the infectivity of the bacteria or virus adhering on the banknote may be experimentally determined in advance so as to determine the degree of the disinfection based on the experiment result. 
     Note that the first banknote processing apparatus  10  may perform the reading of the serial number prior to the disinfection of the banknote, or may perform the disinfection of the banknote prior to the reading of the serial number. In addition, to the computer  30 , the first banknote processing apparatus  10  may send the serial number and the first disinfection information at the same time, send the serial number prior to the first disinfection information, or send the first disinfection information prior to the serial number. For example, S 103  may branch to the step of sending the serial number and the step of sending the first disinfection information, the step of sending the serial number may be performed between S 101  and S 102 , and the step of sending the first disinfection information may be performed after S 102 . In this case, naturally, S 104  also branches to two steps. Note that when the serial number and the first disinfection information are transmitted and received at different timings, the first banknote processing apparatus  10  may operate in the following manner such that the computer  30  can associate the serial number and the first disinfection information with each other. Specifically, the first banknote processing apparatus  10  may send the serial number and the first disinfection information to the computer  30 , with some key information (e.g., the processing time or processing order of banknotes) added to at least one of the serial number and the first disinfection information. 
     When receiving the serial number and the first disinfection information (S 104 ), the computer  30  sends, to the recording apparatus  40 , a command to record the serial number and the first disinfection information in association with each other (S 105 ). Naturally, information representing the serial number and the first disinfection information is included in this command. 
     When receiving the command from the computer  30 , the recording apparatus  40  records the serial number and the first disinfection information in association with each other in accordance with the command (S 106 ). 
     The above-described banknote management method can manage the state of the disinfection of each banknote processed by the first banknote processing apparatus  10  in association with the serial number. Thus, how or how carefully each banknote should be handled after the processing at the first banknote processing apparatus  10  can be appropriately determined. Thus, the subsequent banknote processing can be smoothly performed. 
     In the banknote management system according to Embodiment 1, the following banknote management method may also be performed. In this case, the first banknote processing apparatus  10  processes a first banknote and a second banknote as the banknote. In addition, the first banknote processing apparatus  10  includes a storage unit. This storage unit stores a plurality of banknotes in a stacked state. Specifically, the first banknote is stored in the storage unit, and the second banknote is stored in the storage unit in a state where it is stacked on the first banknote. Examples of the storage unit include a cassette, a stacking unit (receptacle) with an opening, and the like. 
       FIG. 3  is a flowchart illustrating a banknote management method in the banknote management system  1 , and in particular, a step performed by the computer  30 . The matters overlapping the description of  FIG. 2  may be omitted. 
     First, the computer  30  receives the serial number of the first banknote and the first disinfection information of the first banknote sent from the first banknote processing apparatus  10  (S 201 ). S 201  and S 202  may be performed at different timings. 
     When receiving the serial number of the first banknote and the first disinfection information of the first banknote, the computer  30  sends, to the recording apparatus  40 , a command to record the serial number of the first banknote and the first disinfection information of the first banknote in association with each other (S 202 ). 
     Subsequently, the computer  30  receives the serial number of the second banknote and the first disinfection information of the second banknote sent from the first banknote processing apparatus  10  (S 203 ). 
     Next, after making an inquiry of the recording apparatus  40  about the first disinfection information of the first banknote as necessary, the computer  30  determines whether the first disinfection information of the second banknote indicates that it is inferior to the first disinfection information of the first banknote in terms of the state of the disinfection (S 204 ). 
     In the case where the first disinfection information of the second banknote indicates that it is inferior to the first disinfection information of the first banknote in terms of the state of the disinfection (S 204 : YES), the computer  30  updates the first disinfection information of the first banknote on the basis of the first disinfection information of the second banknote (S 205 ). To be more specific, it sends a command, to the recording apparatus  40 , to generate new first disinfection information and record this new first disinfection information in association with the serial number of the first banknote. The recording apparatus  40  receiving this command updates the first disinfection information of the first banknote recorded in association with the serial number of the first banknote, to new first disinfection information. The new first disinfection information may be the first disinfection information of the second banknote itself. In this case, the update of the first disinfection information of the first banknote is replacement with the first disinfection information of the second banknote. The new first disinfection information may be information representing the degree of the disinfection between the degree of the disinfection of the first banknote and the degree of the disinfection of the second banknote. 
     In the case where the first disinfection information of the second banknote does not indicate that it is inferior to the first disinfection information of the first banknote in terms of the state of the disinfection (S 204 : NO), and the case where the first disinfection information of the first banknote is updated (after S 205 ), the computer  30  sends, to the recording apparatus  40 , a command to record the serial number of the second banknote and the first disinfection information of the second banknote in association with each other (S 206 ). Note that the step indicated in S 206  may be performed between the step indicated in S 203  and the step indicated in S 204 . 
     With the management method described above, in the case where a banknote with the inferior state of the disinfection is stored in the storage unit later, the first disinfection information of the banknote with the superior state of the disinfection can be updated based on the first disinfection information of the banknote with the inferior state of the disinfection. Thus, even in the case where there is a risk that the banknote with the superior state of the disinfection is affected by bacteria or virus adhering on the banknote with the inferior state of the disinfection due to stacking of banknotes in the storage unit, the state of the disinfection of the banknote can be appropriately managed. 
     The update of the first disinfection information of the first banknote may be performed in the case where the first banknote and the second banknote are in direct contact with each other in the storage unit, i.e., the case where the second banknote is stored in the storage unit immediately after the first banknote. In addition, the update of the first disinfection information of the first banknote may be performed in the case where the number of banknotes interposed between the first banknote and the second banknote is equal to or smaller than a predetermined number, i.e., the case where the number of banknotes that are stored in the storage unit in the period between the storage of the first banknote and the storage of the second banknote is equal to or smaller than a predetermined number. In addition, the update of the first disinfection information of the first banknote may be performed regardless of the number of banknotes interposed between the first banknote and the second banknote. 
     In the banknote management system according to Embodiment 1, the following banknote management method may also be performed. In this case, the first banknote processing apparatus  10  processes the first banknote and the second banknote as the banknote. In addition, the first banknote processing apparatus  10  includes a storage unit. This storage unit stores a plurality of banknotes in a stacked state. Specifically, the first banknote is stored in the storage unit, and the second banknote is stored in the storage unit in a state where it is stacked on the first banknote. 
       FIG. 4  is a flowchart illustrating a banknote management method in the banknote management system  1 , especially a step performed by the computer  30 . Step S 301  to step S 305  are identical to step S 201  to step S 205  in  FIG. 3 , and therefore the description thereof is omitted. 
     In the case where the first disinfection information of the second banknote does not indicate that it is inferior to the first disinfection information of the first banknote in terms of the state of the disinfection (S 304 : NO), and, the case where the first disinfection information of the first banknote is updated (after S 305 ), the computer  30  determines whether the first disinfection information of the first banknote indicates that it is inferior to the first disinfection information of the second banknote in terms of the state of the disinfection (S 306 ). 
     In the case where the first disinfection information of the first banknote indicates that it is inferior to the first disinfection information of the second banknote in terms of the state of the disinfection (S 306 : YES), the computer  30  updates the first disinfection information of the second banknote on the basis of the first disinfection information of the first banknote (S 307 ). The update of the first disinfection information of the second banknote may be replacement with the first disinfection information of the first banknote. In addition, the update of the first disinfection information of the second banknote may be an update to information representing the degree of the disinfection between the degree of the disinfection of the first banknote and the degree of the disinfection of the second banknote. 
     In the case where the first disinfection information of the first banknote does not indicate that it is inferior to the first disinfection information of the second banknote in terms of the state of the disinfection (S 306 : NO), and the case where the first disinfection information of the second banknote is updated (after S 307 ), the computer  30  sends, to the recording apparatus  40 , a command to record the serial number of the second banknote and the first disinfection information of the second banknote or the updated first disinfection information of the second banknote in association with each other (S 308 ). 
     With the management method described above, in the case where a banknote with the inferior state of the disinfection is stored in the storage unit later or earlier, the first disinfection information of the banknote with the superior state of the disinfection can be updated based on the first disinfection information of the banknote with the inferior state of the disinfection. Thus, even in the case where there is a risk that the banknote with the superior state of the disinfection is affected by bacteria or virus adhering on the banknote with the inferior state of the disinfection due to stacking of banknotes in the storage unit, the state of the disinfection of the banknote can be appropriately managed. 
     The update of the first disinfection information of the first banknote or the second banknote may be performed in the case where the first banknote and the second banknote are in direct contact with each other in the storage unit, i.e., the case where the second banknote is stored in the storage unit immediately after the first banknote. In addition, the update of the first disinfection information of the first banknote or the second banknote may be performed in the case where the number of banknotes interposed between the first banknote and the second banknote is equal to or smaller than a predetermined number, i.e., the case where the number of banknotes that are stored in the storage unit in the period between the storage of the first banknote and the storage of the second banknote is equal to or smaller than a predetermined number. In addition, the update of the first disinfection information of the first banknote or the second banknote may be performed regardless of the number of banknotes interposed between the first banknote and the second banknote. 
     Embodiment 2 
       FIG. 5  is a schematic view of the banknote management system  1  according to Embodiment 2. The banknote management system  1  includes the first banknote processing apparatus  10 , a second banknote processing apparatus  20 , the computer  30  and the recording apparatus  40 . Note that the descriptions overlapping Embodiment 1 may be omitted below. 
     The second banknote processing apparatus  20  is an apparatus for processing banknotes that is installed in a financial institution such as a bank, a distribution store such as convenience store or a facility such as a security transport institution. Specific examples of it include a banknote coin depositing machine, a banknote coin depositing and dispensing machine, an automatic teller machine, a tax payment machine, a money changer, a teller machine, a ticket vending machine, a vending machine, a change machine, a sales depositing and dispensing machine, a banknote counter, a banknote sorting machine, a banknote recycler, a banknote bundler, an electronic money charging machine, and a banknote disinfection apparatus. 
     The second banknote processing apparatus  20  may be disposed in the same facility as that of the first banknote processing apparatus  10 , or in a facility different from that of the first banknote processing apparatus  10 . 
     The second banknote processing apparatus  20  includes a second serial number reading apparatus  21 . 
     The second serial number reading apparatus  21  reads the serial number from the banknote processed by the second banknote processing apparatus  20 . The second serial number reading apparatus  21  may also be a recognition unit that reads the serial number and recognizes the denomination, fitness, authentication and the like of banknotes. 
     The computer  30  may be a control apparatus of the first banknote processing apparatus  10  provided in the first banknote processing apparatus  10 , or a control apparatus of the second banknote processing apparatus  20  provided in the second banknote processing apparatus  20 . In addition, the recording apparatus  40  may be a recording apparatus provided in the first banknote processing apparatus  10 , or a recording apparatus provided in the second banknote processing apparatus  20 . In addition, the recording apparatus  40  may be a recording apparatus provided in the computer  30 . 
     Note that the dotted line in  FIG. 5  indicates an exemplary flow of a banknote. In the example illustrated in  FIG. 5 , the banknote that has been processed by the first banknote processing apparatus  10  is processed by the second banknote processing apparatus  20 . 
     In the banknote management system  1  with the above-described configuration, banknotes are managed in the following manner. 
       FIG. 6  is a sequence diagram illustrating a banknote management method in the banknote management system  1 . 
     First, when receiving a banknote to be processed, the first banknote processing apparatus  10  reads the serial number from the banknote by the first serial number reading apparatus  11  (S 401 ). Subsequently, with the first disinfection apparatus  12 , the first banknote processing apparatus  10  disinfects the banknote whose serial number has been read (S 402 ). Thereafter, the first banknote processing apparatus  10  sends, to the computer  30 , the serial number of this banknote and the first disinfection information of this banknote (S 403 ). At this time, the first banknote processing apparatus  10  sends, to the computer  30 , the serial number and the first disinfection information in the state where they are associated with each other. The computer  30  receives the serial number sent from the first banknote processing apparatus  10  (which may be construed as the first serial number reading apparatus  11  and the first disinfection apparatus  12 ) (S 404 ). 
     Note that the first banknote processing apparatus  10  may perform the reading of the serial number prior to the disinfection of the banknote, or may perform the disinfection of the banknote prior to the reading of the serial number. In addition, to the computer  30 , the first banknote processing apparatus  10  may send the serial number and the first disinfection information at the same time, send the serial number prior to the first disinfection information, or send the first disinfection information prior to the serial number. For example, S 403  may branch to the step of sending the serial number and the step of sending the first disinfection information, the step of sending the serial number may be performed between S 401  and S 402 , and the step of sending the first disinfection information may be performed after S 402 . In this case, naturally, S 404  also branches to two steps. Note that when the serial number and the first disinfection information are transmitted and received at different timings, the first banknote processing apparatus  10  may operate in the following manner such that the computer  30  can associate the serial number and the first disinfection information with each other. Specifically, the first banknote processing apparatus  10  may send the serial number and the first disinfection information to the computer  30 , with some key information (e.g., the processing time or processing order of banknotes) added to at least one of the serial number and the first disinfection information. 
     When receiving the serial number and the first disinfection information, the computer  30  sends, to the recording apparatus  40 , a command to record the serial number and the first disinfection information in association with each other (S 405 ). Naturally, information representing the serial number and the first disinfection information is included in this command. 
     When receiving the command from the computer  30 , the recording apparatus  40  records the serial number and the first disinfection information in association with each other in accordance with the command (S 406 ). 
     In addition, when receiving a banknote to be processed, the second banknote processing apparatus  20  reads the serial number from the banknote by the second serial number reading apparatus  21  (S 407 ). Subsequently, the second banknote processing apparatus  20  sends the read serial number to the computer  30  (S 408 ). The computer  30  receives the serial number sent from the second banknote processing apparatus  20  (which may be construed as the second serial number reading apparatus  21 ) (S 409 ). 
     Next, the computer  30  reads, from the recording apparatus  40 , the first disinfection information that is recorded in association with the serial number that matches the serial number received from the second banknote processing apparatus  20  (S 410 ). Note that the fact that it can read, from the recording apparatus  40 , the first disinfection information that is recorded in association with the serial number that matches the serial number received from the second banknote processing apparatus  20  means that as indicated by the dotted line in  FIG. 5 , the banknote processed by the first banknote processing apparatus  10  is transported to the second banknote processing apparatus  20  by some means, and processed by the second banknote processing apparatus  20 . In addition, in the case where the first disinfection information that is recorded in association with the serial number that matches the serial number received from the second banknote processing apparatus  20  cannot be read from the recording apparatus  40 , the computer  30  sends, to the recording apparatus  40 , a command to record the first disinfection information and the serial number received from the second banknote processing apparatus  20  in association with each other. 
     Subsequently, the computer  30  determines the details of the process to be performed on the banknote in the second banknote processing apparatus  20  on the basis of the first disinfection information read from the recording apparatus  40  (S 411 ). For example, in the case where the read first disinfection information indicates that the state of the disinfection is superior (e.g., the disinfection has been performed, or the degree of the disinfection is a predetermined level or greater), storing of banknotes in a recyclable storage unit (i.e., a storage unit in which only recyclable banknotes are stored) may be determined as the details of the process. In addition, in the case where it indicates that the state of the disinfection is inferior (e.g., disinfection has not been performed, or the degree of the disinfection is lower than a predetermined level), storing of banknotes in a non-recyclable storage unit (i.e., a storage unit in which non-recyclable banknotes are stored) may be determined as the details of the process. In this manner, while ensuring a large number of recyclable banknotes as much as possible, it is possible to prevent a banknote that is in an inferior state of disinfection and requires care in handling from being ejected in the inferior state of disinfection from the second banknote processing apparatus  20 . 
     In addition, in the case where the second banknote processing apparatus  20  includes a second disinfection apparatus  22  (see  FIG. 7 ), the details of the process may be determined in the following manner. Specifically, in the case where the read first disinfection information indicates that the disinfection has been performed, or that the state of the disinfection is superior (e.g., the degree of the disinfection is greater than a predetermined value), it is possible to determine that no disinfection is to be performed at the second disinfection apparatus  22  as the details of the process. In addition, in the case where it indicates that disinfection has not been performed, or that the state of the disinfection is inferior, it is possible to determine that the disinfection is to be performed at the second disinfection apparatus  22  as the details of the process. In addition, the details of the disinfection (the reliability of the disinfection) performed at the second disinfection apparatus  22  may be determined as the details of the process. In the above-described manner, it is possible to prevent unnecessary consumption of the power or the disinfecting material through execution of disinfection on a banknote that does not require disinfection. 
     When the details of the process is determined, the computer  30  sends the determined details of process to the second banknote processing apparatus  20  (S 412 ). The second banknote processing apparatus  20  receives the details of the process (S 413 ), and executes the processing on the banknote in accordance with the details (S 414 ). 
     With the management method described above, appropriate banknote processes, and in turn, smooth banknote processes can be performed in the entire system by sharing information among a plurality of banknote processing apparatuses. 
     Embodiment 3 
       FIG. 7  is a schematic view of the banknote management system  1  according to Embodiment 3. The banknote management system  1  includes the first banknote processing apparatus  10 , the second banknote processing apparatus  20 , the computer  30  and the recording apparatus  40 . Note that the descriptions overlapping Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2 may be omitted below. 
     The second banknote processing apparatus  20  includes the second serial number reading apparatus  21  and the second disinfection apparatus  22 . 
     The second disinfection apparatus  22  disinfects the banknote processed by the second banknote processing apparatus  20 . Note that the disinfection of the banknote itself may be the processing of banknotes performed by the second banknote processing apparatus  20 . The second disinfection apparatus  22  may include one or more of an ultraviolet ray irradiation apparatus, a disinfection material supply apparatus and a heating apparatus. 
     The computer  30  is, for example, a server apparatus communicatively connected to the first banknote processing apparatus  10  and the second banknote processing apparatus  20  through a network such as the Internet. 
     The recording apparatus  40  is, for example, a recording apparatus communicatively connected to the computer  30  through a network such as the Internet. 
     The computer  30  may be a control apparatus of the first banknote processing apparatus  10  provided in the first banknote processing apparatus  10 , or a control apparatus of the second banknote processing apparatus  20  provided in the second banknote processing apparatus  20 . In addition, the recording apparatus  40  may be a recording apparatus provided in the first banknote processing apparatus  10 , or a recording apparatus provided in the second banknote processing apparatus  20 . In addition, the recording apparatus  40  may be a recording apparatus provided in the computer  30 . 
     Note that the dotted line in  FIG. 7  indicates an exemplary flow of a banknote. In the example illustrated in  FIG. 7 , the banknote that has been processed by the first banknote processing apparatus  10  is processed by the second banknote processing apparatus  20 . 
     In the banknote management system  1  with the above-described configuration, banknotes are managed in the following manner. 
       FIG. 8  is a sequence diagram illustrating a banknote management method in the banknote management system  1 . The details of step S 501  to step S 507  in  FIG. 8  are identical to those of step S 401  to step S 407  in  FIG. 6 , and therefore the description thereof is omitted. 
     At step S 507 , after reading the serial number from the banknote, the second banknote processing apparatus  20  disinfects the banknote whose serial number has been read, by using the second disinfection apparatus  22  (S 508 ). Subsequently, the second banknote processing apparatus  20  sends, to the computer  30 , the serial number and second disinfection information (S 509 ). The computer  30  receives the serial number and the second disinfection information sent from the second banknote processing apparatus  20  (which may be construed as the second serial number reading apparatus  21  and the second disinfection apparatus  22 ) (S 510 ). 
     Note that the second banknote processing apparatus  20  may perform the reading of the serial number prior to the disinfection of the banknote, or may perform the disinfection of the banknote prior to the reading of the serial number. In addition, the second banknote processing apparatus  20  may send the serial number and the second disinfection information at the same time, send the serial number prior to the second disinfection information, or send the second disinfection information prior to the serial number, to the computer  30 . For example, S 509  may branch to the step of sending the serial number and the step of sending the second disinfection information, the step of sending the serial number may be performed between S 507  and S 508 , and the step of sending the second disinfection information may be performed after S 508 . In this case, naturally, S 510  also branches to two steps. Note that in the case where the serial number and the second disinfection information are transmitted and received at different timings, the second banknote processing apparatus  20  may operate in the following manner so that the computer  30  can associate the serial number and the second disinfection information with each other. Specifically, the second banknote processing apparatus  20  may send the serial number and the second disinfection information to the computer  30 , with some key information (e.g., the processing time or processing order of banknotes) added to at least one of the serial number and the second disinfection information. 
     When receiving the serial number and the second disinfection information, the computer  30  makes an inquiry of the recording apparatus  40  about whether the serial number of the banknote read by the second serial number reading apparatus  21  is recorded (S 511 ). 
     In the case where this serial number is recorded in the recording apparatus  40 , the computer  30  sends a command to update the first disinfection information recorded in the recording apparatus  40  in association with this serial number on the basis of the second disinfection information (S 512 ). To be more specific, the computer  30  generates new first disinfection information and sends a command, to the recording apparatus  40 , to record this new first disinfection information in association with the serial number read by the second serial number reading apparatus  21 . 
     The fact that the serial number of the banknote processed by the second banknote processing apparatus  20  is recorded in the recording apparatus  40  means that this banknote has been disinfected by the second disinfection apparatus  22  of the second banknote processing apparatus  20  after the disinfection at the first disinfection apparatus  12  of the first banknote processing apparatus  10 . This means that the disinfection has been performed a plurality of times on this banknote. As such, new first disinfection information (the first disinfection information after the update), which is the update destination, may be set as information representing the degree of the disinfection superior to the degree of the disinfection represented by the second disinfection information and the old first disinfection information (the first disinfection information before the update) as the update source. For example, in the case where the disinfection performed by the first disinfection apparatus  12  has a capability of inactivating 80% of the virus adhering on the banknote, the first disinfection information is a numerical value of 0.8 (maximum value: 1), the disinfection performed by the second disinfection apparatus  22  has a capability of inactivating 70% of the virus adhering on the banknote, and the second disinfection information is a numerical value of 0.7, the new first disinfection information as the update destination may be set as a numerical value of 0.94 (=(1−(1−0.8)×(1−0.7)). Although it is only a simple theoretical calculation, but it shows that 94% of the virus on the banknote is inactivated after two disinfection. 
     In the case where the state of the disinfection represented by the second disinfection information is superior to the state of the disinfection represented by the first disinfection information of the update source, the new first disinfection information of the update destination may be the second disinfection information itself. In this case, the update of the first disinfection information is replacement with the second disinfection information. 
     The recording apparatus  40  receiving a command related to an update updates the first disinfection information recorded in association with the serial number read by the second serial number reading apparatus  21 , to the new first disinfection information, in accordance with the received command, and records it (S 513 ). 
     Note that in the case where the computer  30  performs an inquiry of the recording apparatus  40  about whether the serial number of the banknote read by the second serial number reading apparatus  21  is recorded (S 511 ), and the result shows that it is not recorded, the computer  30  sends the following command to the recording apparatus  40 . That is, the computer  30  sends, to the recording apparatus  40 , a command to record the second disinfection information received from the second banknote processing apparatus  20  as the first disinfection information in association with the serial number received from the second banknote processing apparatus  20 . 
     From S 501  to S 513  described above are the banknote management method executed by the banknote management system  1  exemplified in  FIG. 7 . 
     The following describes a case where the first banknote processing apparatus  10  and the second banknote processing apparatus  20  are sorting machines, and processes S 501  to S 513  illustrated in  FIG. 8  are incorporated in the banknote sorting process of the first banknote processing apparatus  10  and the second banknote processing apparatus  20 . 
     In the case where the first banknote processing apparatus  10  is a banknote sorting machine including five storage units and the second banknote processing apparatus  20  is a banknote sorting machine including five storage units, the first banknote processing apparatus  10  sorts banknotes in the following manner, for example. 
     (1-1): $1 fit note, (1-2): $1 unfit note, (1-3): $5 fit note, (1-4): $5 unfit note, and (1-5): banknotes other than (1-1) to (1-4). 
     At this time, for each banknote, the serial number information and the first disinfection information are associated with each other and recorded by the computer  30  and the recording apparatus  40 . 
     In addition, in an example of a sorting operation, information relating to the serial number, denomination, the fitness of the banknote (hereinafter referred to as fitness information) and the first disinfection information are associated with each other and recorded by the computer  30  and the recording apparatus  40 . 
     Subsequently, the second banknote processing apparatus  20  sorts the banknotes of (1-5) (banknotes other than (1-1) to (1-4)) sorted by the first banknote processing apparatus  10  in the following manner, for example. 
     (2-1): $10 fit note, (2-2): $10 unfit note, (2-3): $20 fit note, (2-4): $20 unfit note, and (2-5): banknotes other than (2-1) to (2-4). 
     At this time, for each banknote, the serial number information and the first disinfection information updated based on the second disinfection information are associated with each other and recorded by the computer  30  and the recording apparatus  40 . 
     In addition, in an example of an sorting operation, the serial number information, the denomination information, the fitness information, and the first disinfection information updated based on the second disinfection information are associated with each other and recorded by the computer  30  and the recording apparatus  40 . 
     The banknote processed by the second banknote processing apparatus  20  passes through the second disinfection apparatus  22  of the second banknote processing apparatus  20  after passing through the first disinfection apparatus  12  of the first banknote processing apparatus  10 . That is, regarding the banknote processed by the second banknote processing apparatus  20 , the first disinfection information associated with the serial number of the banknote is updated by the computer  30  based on the second disinfection information (see the process of S 513 ). 
     With the management method described above, each of the plurality of banknote processing apparatuses disinfects banknotes, and thus the state of the disinfection of the banknote can be changed (updated) to a superior state in the entire system, and, the state of the disinfection of the banknote being changed to a superior state can be tracked. Thus, the state of the disinfection of the banknote can be changed to a more favorable states and can be appropriately managed, and in turn, the banknote process can be smoothly performed. In addition, even when each banknote processing apparatus does not have powerful disinfection function, reliable disinfection can be performed in the entire system. In the case where there is a trade-off between the powerful disinfection function and the time required for the disinfection, smooth banknote processes can be performed without creating bottlenecks in the overall system. 
     Embodiment 4 
       FIG. 9  is a schematic view of the banknote management system  1  according to Embodiment 4. The banknote management system  1  includes the first banknote processing apparatus  10 , the second banknote processing apparatus  20 , the computer  30 , the recording apparatus  40  and a container  50 . Note that the descriptions overlapping Embodiment 1, Embodiment 2 or Embodiment 3 may be omitted below. 
     The container  50  is a container configured to be detachable to the first banknote processing apparatus  10  and the second banknote processing apparatus  20 , and configured to store banknotes in an externally inaccessible manner. The container  50  is, for example, a cassette that stores banknotes in a stacked state, or in a state of being wound between tapes. 
     The container  50 , which is attached to the first banknote processing apparatus  10 , receives banknotes processed by the first banknote processing apparatus  10  from the first banknote processing apparatus  10 , and stores them in its inside. In addition, after the container  50  is detached from the first banknote processing apparatus  10 , the container  50  is attached to the second banknote processing apparatus  20  to pass the banknotes stored inside to the second banknote processing apparatus  20 . The second banknote processing apparatus  20  processes the banknotes received from the container  50 . The dotted line in  FIG. 9  indicates an exemplary flow of the banknote and the container  50 . 
     The banknotes stored in the container  50  can be configured to be externally inaccessible to human&#39;s hands. In addition, the banknotes are stored in the container  50  in the state where they are not exposed to the outside of the container  50 . A worker or the like who carries banknotes from the first banknote processing apparatus  10  to the second banknote processing apparatus  20  cannot touch the banknote inside the container  50 , and therefore the state of the disinfection of banknotes is not affected by a human&#39;s touch as long as they are stored in the container  50 . Accordingly, at the time of the process at the second banknote processing apparatus  20 , the state of the disinfection of the banknote is equal to or greater than that at the time of the process at the first banknote processing apparatus  10 . That is, with the banknote management system according to the present embodiment, it is possible to prevent the state of the disinfection of the banknote from being affected when moving banknotes between banknote processing apparatuses. 
     Accordingly, in the case where the disinfection of a single banknote is repeated a plurality of times at the first banknote processing apparatus  10  and the second banknote processing apparatus  20  as in Embodiment 3, the disinfection of the single banknote is more reliable. That is, the banknote is prevented from being touched by the worker or the like during the repetition of the disinfection of the single banknote, and thus further disinfection can be performed by the second banknote processing apparatus  20  while maintaining the state disinfected by the first banknote processing apparatus  10 . In other words, the first disinfection information associated with the serial number of the banknote can be updated to information representing that the state of the disinfection is more superior. 
     In addition, the recording apparatus  40  may be a recording apparatus installed in the container  50 . With this configuration, for example, the serial number and the first disinfection information of the banknote processed by the first banknote processing apparatus  10  can be passed to the second banknote processing apparatus  20  together with the banknote. Thus, the update and management of the first disinfection information can be performed in the second banknote processing apparatus  20  including the computer  30 , or through sending information to the computer  30  through the second banknote processing apparatus  20 . In addition, the container  50  may include a communication apparatus in addition to the recording apparatus  40 . In this case, the recording apparatus  40  can send information to the computer  30  not through the first banknote processing apparatus  10  and the second banknote processing apparatus  20 , but through the communication apparatus provided in the container  50  and a network connectable to this communication apparatus. The connection between this communication apparatus and the network may be made in a wireless or wired manner. 
     Modifications 
     The present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various variations may be added. 
     For example, on the basis of the first disinfection information recorded in association with the serial number in the recording apparatus  40 , the computer  30  in each embodiment may determine an index representing the ease of handling of the banknote with the serial number, and output this index. The index may be, for example, the fee for handling (e.g., conveying) the banknote, the type (which may be construed as category or level) of the material that should be put on or the tool that should be used for handling the banknote. The output may be a display on a screen provided in the computer  30  or the banknote processing apparatus storing the banknote, printing to the paper, or information transmission to the computer used by one that (e.g., the security transport institution) handles the banknote. 
     An added value can be provided to the disinfected banknote by managing the index in association with the serial number in addition to the first disinfection information for each banknote. Thus, the banknotes can be moved between facilities with an appropriate cost. In addition, it is possible to reassure the user of the first banknote processing apparatus  10  or the second banknote processing apparatus  20  by indicating that the banknote to be provided has been reliably disinfected. 
     Other Modifications 
     Other modifications are further described below. 
     In the case where the first banknote processing apparatus  10  and the second banknote processing apparatus  20  are disposed in the same facility, the transport of banknotes between these apparatuses may be performed through the container  50 , or through a transport apparatus or a transport robot that does not require manual operations. In this manner, while maintaining the disinfection state in the first banknote processing apparatus  10 , the banknote can be transported to the second banknote processing apparatus  20 . In turn, it is possible to prevent deterioration of the state of the disinfection in the course of repetition of processes on the banknote in the same facility. 
     In addition, the computer  30  may automatically update the first disinfection information in accordance with the time length for which the banknote remains in the first banknote processing apparatus  10  or the second banknote processing apparatus  20 . In other words, the computer  30  may change the first disinfection information in such a manner as to indicate that the state of the disinfection is superior over time. For example, in the case where the target virus is known to be inactivated over time, the first disinfection information may be changed to information indicating that the disinfection is in superior condition over time. 
     Note that in the case where the banknote is ejected from the first banknote processing apparatus  10  or the second banknote processing apparatus  20  in the state where it can be directly touched by the worker or the user, the first banknote processing apparatus  10  or the second banknote processing apparatus  20  may send a predetermined signal to the computer  30 . The predetermined signal is a signal that indicates an ejection of a banknote in a directly touchable state and the serial number of the banknote. When receiving this signal, the computer  30  can send, to the recording apparatus  40 , a command to erase the first disinfection information recorded in association with the serial number of the banknote, or update it to information indicating that the disinfection has not been made. In this manner, the state of the disinfection of the banknote can be appropriately managed in a state closer to the actual state. 
     In addition, the first disinfection information may be an index associated with the residual quantity or activity of the bacteria or virus adhering on the banknote. When the first disinfection information is set to these indexes, it is possible to determine how to handle the banknotes in accordance with the actual state. Note that these indexes may be experimentally determined in advance for each of disinfection methods and disinfection details. 
     In addition, the first banknote processing apparatus  10  may be a banknote recycler.  FIG. 10  is a schematic view illustrating an internal structure of the first banknote processing apparatus  10  serving as a banknote recycler. In the following description, the front or forward is the side on which an inlet  211  and an outlet  221  described later are formed, and the rear or rearward is the side opposite to the front or forward. Note that the first banknote processing apparatus  10  serving as the banknote recycler illustrated in  FIG. 10  independently makes up the banknote management system  1  of  FIG. 1C . 
     The first banknote processing apparatus  10  performs a process on a banknote. The first banknote processing apparatus  10  includes a processing unit  100  on the upper side, and a safe unit  500  on the lower side. The processing unit  100  includes an upper housing  120 , a deposit unit  121  disposed inside the upper housing  120 , a dispense unit  122 , a reject unit  123 , a temporary storage unit  124 , a recognition unit  125 , the first disinfection apparatus  12 , an upper transport unit  141 , the computer  30 , and the recording apparatus  40 . 
     The safe unit  500  is composed of a safe housing  501 . In the safe housing  501 , a plurality of storage apparatuses  531  to  535 , a lower transport unit  542  and a second lower transport unit  543  are disposed. 
     The deposit unit  121  is, for example, a portion where the banknote to be deposited is inserted during the deposit process. In addition, the deposit unit  121  may be a portion where the banknote to be counted is inserted during the counting process. The deposit unit  121  includes the inlet  211 . The inlet  211  opens upward at the front part of the upper housing  120 . The operator puts a banknote into the deposit unit  121  through the inlet  211 , by hand. The deposit unit  121  includes a mechanism for taking banknotes into the first banknote processing apparatus  10  one by one. 
     The dispense unit  122  is a portion to which the banknote sent out from the storage apparatuses  531  to  535  is transported during the dispensing process, for example. In addition, the dispense unit  122  is used also as a portion to which the rejected banknote generated during the deposit process is transported. In addition, the dispense unit  122  is used also as a portion to which a normal banknote counted during the counting process is transported. The dispense unit  122  can hold a plurality of banknotes in a stacked state. The dispense unit  122  includes the outlet  221 . The outlet  221  opens upward at a position in front of the inlet  211 . The operator can take out the banknotes accumulated in the dispense unit  122  by hand through the outlet  221 . 
     The reject unit  123  is a portion to which the rejected banknote generated during the counting process is transported, for example. The reject unit  123  is disposed at a front part in the upper housing  120 . The reject unit  123  is configured to hold a plurality of banknotes in a stacked state. The reject unit  123  includes a second outlet  231 . The second outlet  231  opens forward at the front part of the upper housing  120 . 
     The temporary storage unit  124  temporarily stores the banknote to be deposited during the deposit process, for example. The temporary storage unit  124  can send out the stored banknotes. The temporary storage unit  124  is a tape-type storage unit. The temporary storage unit  124  stores banknotes by winding up the banknote around the drum together with the tape. 
     The recognition unit  125  is disposed at a first transport path  411 . The recognition unit  125  acquires at least the serial number of each banknote transported along the first transport path  411 . That is, the recognition unit  125  functions as the first serial number reading apparatus  11 . In addition, the recognition unit  125  also can recognize the authentication, denomination and fitness. 
     The first disinfection apparatus  12  is disposed at the first transport path  411 . 
     The computer  30  is a control apparatus of the first banknote processing apparatus  10 , and entirely controls the first banknote processing apparatus  10 . The recording apparatus  40  records programs executed by the computer  30 , the serial number of the processed banknote, the first disinfection information of that banknote and the like. 
     In the example illustrated in  FIG. 10 , the first banknote processing apparatus  10  includes the five storage apparatuses  531  to  535 . In the following description, the five storage apparatuses may be referred to as the first storage apparatus  531 , the second storage apparatus  532 , the third storage apparatus  533 , the fourth storage apparatus  534 , and the fifth storage apparatus  535 . 
     Each of the first the storage apparatus  531 , the second storage apparatus  532 , and the third storage apparatus  533  includes one storage unit S. Each of the fourth storage apparatus  534  and the fifth storage apparatus  535  includes two storage units (a first storage unit S 1  and a second storage unit S 2 ). 
     Each storage unit S, each first storage unit S 1  and each second storage unit S 2  includes a transport mechanism. The transport mechanism inputs the banknote into the storage apparatuses  531  to  535  from the outside, and sends out the banknote from the inside of the storage apparatuses  531  to  535  to the outside. 
     The upper transport unit  141 , the lower transport unit  542  and the second lower transport unit  543  make up a transport unit  140 . The transport unit  140  transports banknotes one by one with an appropriate interval between each banknote in the first banknote processing apparatus  10 . 
     The upper transport unit  141  includes the first transport path  411 , a second transport path  412 , a third transport path  413 , a fourth transport path  414 , a fifth transport path  415 , a sixth transport path  416 , a seventh transport path  417 , and an eighth transport path  418 . 
     Note that in the upper wall that makes up the safe housing  501 , three transport paths are formed to extend through it in the vertical direction. The three transport paths are disposed side by side in the front-rear direction. One of the three transport paths connects the sixth transport path  416  and a ninth transport path  421 . In addition, another transport path connects the seventh transport path  417  and a tenth transport path  422 . In addition, another transport path connects the eighth transport path  418  and an eleventh transport path  420 . 
     The first transport path  411  is configured in a loop form. The transport unit  140  can transport the banknote along the first transport path  411  in the clockwise direction and the counterclockwise direction in  FIG. 10 . 
     The second transport path  412  connects the deposit unit  121  and the first transport path  411  to each other. The second transport path  412  transports the banknote from the deposit unit  121  toward the first transport path  411 . 
     The third transport path  413  connects the dispense unit  122  and the first transport path  411  to each other. The third transport path  413  transports the banknote from the first transport path  411  toward the dispense unit  122 . 
     The fourth transport path  414  connects the reject unit  123  and the first transport path  411  to each other. The fourth transport path  414  transports the banknote from the first transport path  411  toward the reject unit  123 . 
     The fifth transport path  415  connects the temporary storage unit  124  and the first transport path  411  to each other. The fifth transport path  415  transports the banknote from the first transport path  411  toward the temporary storage unit  124 , and transports the banknote from the temporary storage unit  124  toward the first transport path  411 . 
     The sixth transport path  416  connects the lower transport unit  542  and the first transport path  411  to each other. The sixth transport path  416  transports the banknote from the first transport path  411  toward the lower transport unit  542 , and transports the banknote from the lower transport unit  542  toward the first transport path  411 . 
     The seventh transport path  417  connects the lower transport unit  542  and the first transport path  411  to each other. The seventh transport path  417  transports the banknote from the first transport path  411  toward the lower transport unit  542 , and transports the banknote from the lower transport unit  542  toward the first transport path  411 . 
     The lower transport unit  542  includes the ninth transport path  421 , the tenth transport path  422 , and the eleventh transport path  420 . 
     The ninth transport path  421  connects the second lower transport unit  543  and the sixth transport path  416  to each other. The ninth transport path  421  transports the banknote from the sixth transport path  416  toward the second lower transport unit  543 , and transports the banknote from the second lower transport unit  543  toward the sixth transport path  416 . 
     The tenth transport path  422  connects the storage unit S of each of the first the storage apparatus  531 , the second storage apparatus  532 , and the third storage apparatus  533 , and the seventh transport path  417  to each other. The tenth transport path  422  transports the banknote from the seventh transport path  417  toward each of the storage apparatuses  531  to  533 , and transports the banknote from each of the storage apparatuses  531  to  533  toward the seventh transport path  417 . 
     The eleventh transport path  420  connects the first storage unit S 1  of the fifth storage apparatus  535  and the eighth transport path  418  to each other. The eleventh transport path  420  transports the banknote from the eighth transport path  418  toward the fifth storage apparatus  535 , and transports the banknote from the fifth storage apparatus  535  toward the eighth transport path  418 . 
     The second lower transport unit  543  is diverged in the middle portion so as to be connected with the second storage unit S 2  of the fourth storage apparatus  534  and the second storage unit S 2  of the fifth storage apparatus  535 . The second lower transport unit  543  transports the banknote from the first transport path  411  toward the second storage unit S 2  of the fourth storage apparatus  534 , and transports the banknote from this second storage unit S 2  toward the first transport path  411 . In addition, the second lower transport unit  543  transports the banknote from the first transport path  411  toward the second storage unit S 2  of the fifth storage apparatus  535 , and transports the banknote from this second storage unit S 2  toward the first transport path  411 . 
     In one aspect, a passage sensor that detects passage of banknotes is disposed in each unit of the transport unit  140 . When receiving a command from the computer  30 , the transport unit  140  transports the banknote to a predetermined transport destination on the basis of a detection signal of the passage sensor. In addition, on the basis of the recognition result of the recognition unit  125 , the operation state of the first disinfection apparatus  12 , and the detection signal of the passage sensor, the computer  30  acquires the serial number and the first disinfection information of the banknote stored in each storage unit, and records the serial number and the first disinfection information in association with each other in the recording apparatus  40 . 
     In the first banknote processing apparatus  10  configured in the above-described manner as a banknote recycler, banknotes are processed in the following manner, for example. 
     (1) DEPOSIT PROCESS 
     A banknote placed at the deposit unit  121  is transported to the recognition unit  125  by the transport unit  140 , and recognized. At this time, various information including the serial number is acquired, and the acquired information is sent to the computer (control apparatus)  30 . Subsequently, this banknote is transported to the first disinfection apparatus  12  by the transport unit  140 , and disinfected. Subsequently, this banknote is transported to the temporary storage unit  124 , and temporarily held. 
     Meanwhile, the first disinfection information is sent to the computer  30 . The computer  30  records the first disinfection information and various information including the serial number of this banknote in association with each other in the recording apparatus  40 . 
     The computer  30  determines the storage apparatus for storing each banknote among the storage apparatuses  531  to  535  in accordance with the recognition result of each banknote. When all banknotes that should be taken from the deposit unit  121  are held in the temporary storage unit  124 , the computer  30  controls the temporary storage unit  124 , the transport unit  140  and the storage apparatuses  531  to  535  to transport each banknote to the storage apparatuses  531  to  535  determined to be a transport destination. 
     That is, the banknote placed at the deposit unit  121  is disinfected once, and then stored in any one of the storage apparatuses  531  to  535 . In addition, information indicating that it has been disinfected once is recorded in association with the serial number in the recording apparatus  40 . Note that the banknote taken from the deposit unit  121  may be transported to the storage apparatuses  531  to  535  determined in accordance with the recognition result after the single disinfection at the first disinfection apparatus  12 , without being temporarily held in the temporary storage unit  124 . 
     During the transportation to the storage apparatuses  531  to  535  as the storage destination, the banknote sent out from the temporary storage unit  124  may again pass through the first disinfection apparatus  12  and subjected to the second disinfection. 
     In addition, the information associated with the serial number may be the number of times of the disinfection at the first disinfection apparatus  12  in the period until it is output from the first banknote processing apparatus  10  after it is taken in the first banknote processing apparatus  10 . In addition, in the case where one banknote is disinfected by the first disinfection apparatus  12  a plurality of times, the first disinfection information may be updated to information representing that the state of the disinfection is more superior each time when the disinfection is repeated. 
     Note that in the case where as the banknote that should be rejected for deposit (so-called rejected banknote) is generated as a result of the recognition process performed during the deposit process, such a banknote may be processed in the following manner, rather than transporting it directly to the reject unit  123 . Specifically, it may be temporarily stored in the temporary storage unit  124  after the disinfection at the first disinfection apparatus  12 , and then transported to the reject unit  123  after the completion of the processing for the banknote that should be deposited after the re-disinfection at the first disinfection apparatus  12 . This can increase the degree of the disinfection of the rejected banknote that is immediately returned to the user of the first banknote processing apparatus  10 . During the re-disinfection at the first disinfection apparatus  12 , the transport speed of the rejected banknote at the transport unit  140  may be reduced so as to more carefully perform the disinfection. 
     (2) Reconciliation Process 
     The reconciliation process is a process of determining (confirming) the amount of banknotes in the storage apparatuses  531  to  535  by sending out the banknote stored in the storage apparatuses  531  to  535  and recognizing it at the recognition unit  125 . The banknote disinfection associated with the reconciliation process may be performed. 
     The banknote stored in the storage apparatuses  531  to  535  is transported to the first disinfection apparatus  12  by the transport unit  140 , and disinfected. Subsequently, this banknote is transported to the recognition unit  125  by the transport unit  140 , and recognized. At this time, various information including the serial number is acquired, and the acquired information is sent to the computer  30 . Subsequently, this banknote is transported to the temporary storage unit  124 , and temporarily held. 
     Meanwhile, the first disinfection information is sent to the computer  30 . The computer  30  records the first disinfection information and various information including the serial number of this banknote in association with each other in the recording apparatus  40 . At this time, the computer  30  may update the first disinfection information recorded in association with the serial number in the recording apparatus  40  during the deposit process, on the basis of the disinfection performed during the reconciliation process. 
     When all banknotes that should be temporarily stored in the temporary storage unit  124  are held in the temporary storage unit  124 , the computer  30  controls the temporary storage unit  124 , the transport unit  140  and the storage apparatuses  531  to  535  to transport each banknote to the original storage apparatuses  531  to  535  or other storage apparatuses  531  to  535 . 
     Specifically, the banknote sent out from the storage apparatuses  531  to  535  is disinfected once, and then again stored in the original or other storage apparatuses  531  to  535 . In addition, information indicating that the disinfection has been performed by the sum of the number of times of the disinfection performed during the deposit process and the number of times of the disinfection performed during the reconciliation process is recorded in association with the serial number in the recording apparatus  40 . Through the reconciliation process described above, the disinfection of the banknote can be performed while performing the reconciliation process, it is not necessary to transport the banknote only for the disinfection, and thus efficient banknote processes can be performed. 
     During the transportation to the storage apparatuses  531  to  535  as the storage destination, the banknote sent out from the temporary storage unit  124  may again pass through the first disinfection apparatus  12  and subjected to the second disinfection in the reconciliation process. 
     (3) Dispensing Process 
     The banknotes stored in the storage apparatuses  531  to  535  are sent out to the transport unit  140  in accordance with a dispense request input to the first banknote processing apparatus  10 . The sent banknote is transported to the first disinfection apparatus  12  by the transport unit  140 , and disinfected. Subsequently, this banknote is transported to the recognition unit  125  by the transport unit  140 , and recognized. At this time, various information including the serial number is acquired, and the acquired information is sent to the computer  30 . Subsequently, this banknote is transported to the temporary storage unit  124 , and temporarily held. 
     Meanwhile, the first disinfection information is sent to the computer  30 . The computer  30  records the first disinfection information and various information including the serial number of this banknote in association with each other in the recording apparatus  40 . At this time, the computer  30  may update the first disinfection information recorded in association with the serial number in the recording apparatus  40  during the deposit process or the reconciliation process, on the basis of the disinfection performed during the dispensing process. 
     When all banknotes that should be dispensed are temporarily stored in the temporary storage unit  124 , the computer  30  controls the temporary storage unit  124 , the transport unit  140  and the dispense unit  122  to transport, from the temporary storage unit  124  to the dispense unit  122 , the banknote that should be dispensed. 
     Specifically, the banknote sent out from the storage apparatuses  531  to  535  is disinfected once, and then dispensed from the dispense unit  122 . In addition, information indicating that it has been disinfected once is recorded in association with the serial number in the recording apparatus  40 . Note that the banknote taken from the deposit unit  121  may be transported to the dispense unit  122  after the single disinfection at the first disinfection apparatus  12  without being temporarily held in the temporary storage unit  124 . 
     Note that in the case where the state of the disinfection of the dispensed banknote (the first disinfection information) meets a predetermined standard, such as a case where disinfection has been performed for a predetermined the number of times or more in the first banknote processing apparatus  10 , the first disinfection apparatus  12  need not disinfect the banknote during the dispensing process. The power consumption can be reduced by performing the control of turning off the power of the first disinfection apparatus  12  when it is not necessary to perform disinfection. 
     In addition, the computer  30  may select a banknote whose state of the disinfection of the banknote meets a predetermined standard, as the banknote that should be dispensed. For example, by preliminarily setting three or more disinfections in the first banknote processing apparatus  10  as a condition as a banknote that can be dispensed, it is possible to prevent dispense of a banknote that is disinfected two times or less than two times in the period between the deposit and the dispense. In this case, for example, the number of times of disinfection may be increased by performing the reconciliation process at night so as to increase the banknote that can be dispensed. The reconciliation process may be performed a plurality of times on a single banknote to increase the number of times of the disinfection. 
     In addition, to meet a predetermined standard of the disinfection state of the banknote without increasing the number of times of the disinfection, the speed of the transport of the banknote by the transport unit  140  may be reduced than the typical deposit process, reconciliation process or dispensing process in the disinfection of the banknote during the deposit process, reconciliation process or dispensing process. By reducing the transport speed, the passing time at the first disinfection apparatus  12  can be increased, and in turn, the disinfection can be performed more carefully by the first disinfection apparatus  12 . That is, a more superior state of the disinfection of the banknote can be set without increasing the number of times of the disinfection. 
     In addition, during the deposit process or the reconciliation process, the transport destination of the banknote may be selected in accordance with the state of the disinfection. Specifically, banknotes may be stored in different storage apparatuses in the storage apparatuses  531  to  535  depending on whether the state of the disinfection (e.g., the number of times of disinfection) is greater than a predetermined condition (the number of times). 
     In addition, during the reconciliation process or the dispensing process, whether the disinfection is performed by the first disinfection apparatus  12  may be determined in accordance with the disinfection state of each banknote. That is, it is possible to prevent the unnecessary consumption of the power and the disinfecting material due to further disinfection of banknotes with a superior state of the disinfection, and in addition, the service life of the first disinfection apparatus  12  can be increased. 
       FIG. 11  is a block diagram of processing circuitry that performs computer-based operations in accordance with the present disclosure.  FIG. 11  illustrates processing circuitry  700  which is included in or encompasses the computer  30 . Alternatively, or additionally, the processing circuitry  700  is included in or encompasses the control apparatus of the first banknote processing apparatus and/or the second banknote processing apparatus. 
     Processing circuitry  700  is used to control any computer-based and cloud-based control processes, descriptions or blocks in flowcharts can be understood as representing modules, segments or portions of code which include one or more executable instructions for implementing specific logical functions or steps in the process, and alternate implementations are included within the scope of the exemplary embodiments of the present advancements in which functions can be executed out of order from that shown or discussed, including substantially concurrently or in reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved, as would be understood by those skilled in the art. The functionality of the elements disclosed herein may be implemented using circuitry or processing circuitry which may include general purpose processors, special purpose processors, integrated circuits, ASICs (“Application Specific Integrated Circuits”), conventional circuitry and/or combinations thereof which are configured or programmed to perform the disclosed functionality. Processors are processing circuitry or circuitry as they include transistors and other circuitry therein. The processor may be a programmed processor which executes a program stored in a memory. In the disclosure, the processing circuitry, units, or means are hardware that carry out or are programmed to perform the recited functionality. The hardware may be any hardware disclosed herein or otherwise known which is programmed or configured to carry out the recited functionality. 
     In  FIG. 11 , the processing circuitry  700  includes a CPU  701  which performs one or more of the control processes discussed in this disclosure. The process data and instructions may be stored in memory  702 . These processes and instructions may also be stored on a storage medium disk  704  such as a hard drive (HDD) or portable storage medium or may be stored remotely. Further, the claimed advancements are not limited by the form of the computer-readable media on which the instructions of the inventive process are stored. For example, the instructions may be stored on CDs, DVDs, in FLASH memory, RAM, ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, hard disk or any other non-transitory computer readable medium of an information processing device with which the processing circuitry  700  communicates, such as a server or computer. The processes may also be stored in network based storage, cloud-based storage or other mobile accessible storage and executable by processing circuitry  700 . 
     Further, the claimed advancements may be provided as a utility application, background daemon, or component of an operating system, or combination thereof, executing in conjunction with CPU  701  and an operating system such as Microsoft Windows, UNIX, Solaris, LINUX, Apple MAC-OS, Apple iOS and other systems known to those skilled in the art. 
     The hardware elements in order to achieve the processing circuitry  700  may be realized by various circuitry elements. Further, each of the functions of the above described embodiments may be implemented by circuitry, which includes one or more processing circuits. A processing circuit includes a particularly programmed processor, for example, processor (CPU)  701 , as shown in  FIG. 11 . A processing circuit also includes devices such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) and conventional circuit components arranged to perform the recited functions. 
     In  FIG. 11 , the processing circuitry  700  may be a computer or a particular, special-purpose machine. Processing circuitry  700  is programmed to execute processing to control terminal device  10 /server device  20 . 
     Alternatively, or additionally, the CPU  701  may be implemented on an FPGA, ASIC, PLD or using discrete logic circuits, as one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize. Further, CPU  701  may be implemented as multiple processors cooperatively working in parallel to perform the instructions of the inventive processes described above. The processing circuitry  700  in  FIG. 11  also includes a network controller  706 , such as an Ethernet PRO network interface card, for interfacing with network  750 . As can be appreciated, the network  750  can be a public network, such as the Internet, or a private network such as a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN), or any combination thereof and can also include Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) or Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) sub-networks. The network  750  can also be wired, such as an Ethernet network, universal serial bus (USB) cable, or can be wireless such as a cellular network including EDGE, 3G and 4G wireless cellular systems. The wireless network can also be Wi-Fi, wireless LAN, Bluetooth, or any other wireless form of communication that is known. Additionally, network controller  706  may be compliant with other direct communication standards, such as Bluetooth, a near field communication (NFC), infrared ray or other. 
     The processing circuitry  700  further includes a display controller  708 , such as a graphics card or graphics adaptor for interfacing with display  709 , such as a monitor. An I/O interface  712  interfaces with a keyboard and/or mouse  714  as well as a touch screen panel  716  on or separate from display  709 . I/O interface  712  also connects to a variety of peripherals  718 . 
     The storage controller  724  connects the storage medium disk  704  with communication bus  726 , which may be an ISA, EISA, VESA, PCI, or similar, for interconnecting all of the components of the processing circuitry  700 . A description of the general features and functionality of the display  709 , keyboard and/or mouse  714 , as well as the display controller  708 , storage controller  724 , network controller  706 , and I/O interface  712  is omitted herein for brevity as these features are known. 
     The exemplary circuit elements described in the context of the present disclosure may be replaced with other elements and structured differently than the examples provided herein. Moreover, circuitry configured to perform features described herein may be implemented in multiple circuit units (e.g., chips), or the features may be combined in circuitry on a single chipset. 
     The functions and features described herein may also be executed by various distributed components of a system. For example, one or more processors may execute these system functions, wherein the processors are distributed across multiple components communicating in a network. The distributed components may include one or more client and server machines, which may share processing, in addition to various human interface and communication devices (e.g., display monitors, smart phones, tablets, personal digital assistants (PDAs)). The network may be a private network, such as a LAN or WAN, or may be a public network, such as the Internet. Input to the system may be received via direct user input and received remotely either in real-time or as a batch process. Additionally, some implementations may be performed on modules or hardware not identical to those described. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope that may be claimed. 
     INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY 
     The present disclosure is useful for a banknote management system built by linking banknote processing apparatuses used in distribution, finance, and various other industrial fields within or across those fields, or for a banknote management method used in the banknote management system.