Patent Publication Number: US-11390477-B2

Title: Media deskew apparatus and deskew methods

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     Currency recyclers and depositories generally include note separators to separate stacks of notes before being processed by a deskew module that deskews each note for further downstream processing, such as imaging. 
     Generally, the media separator performs two functions: separating a single media item from a bunch of media items and then using a deskew module to properly align the separated media item within the depository for transport and further downstream processing within the depository. 
     Conventional approaches rely on spring loaded upper rollers that are hard and inflexible, the spring allows for an upper force to maintain contact with the bunch prior to separation and entry into the conventional deskew module. The deskew module includes multiple different solenoids or motors and multiple driveshafts. This is necessary because the media is driven in two or more directions straight and angled. Furthermore, a variety of optical sensors are necessary to identify positions of the media for purposes of activating the appropriate drivers during media alignment. The media itself is also driven along the transport path through the deskew module along a belt mechanism. Because of the belt transport mechanism, the straight-line drivers and angular-drivers are oriented above or on top of the media as the media is being aligned within the deskew module. 
     As a result, there is a sizeable number of electromechanical components and sensors needed within the deskew module to achieve proper media alignment, which adds costs and complexities to the deskew module. The length of the transport path is also believed to be optimal based on the needed componentry and what is known about the maximum size of a media item that may need to be aligned within the deskew module. 
     A media depository performs a variety of media-based functions; typically, each function requires a separate electromechanical module. Because of the complexities associated with deskewing a media item, the industry has separated the process of separating a media item from a bunch (media separator) from the process associated with deskewing the media item (deskew module). 
     Consequently, depositories tend to have a larger than is necessary physical footprint, which makes it difficult to install depositories in some retail locations where physical space is limited or non-existent to accommodate traditional depositories, or which prohibits adding additional functionality into the depository because of space-based limitations. 
     SUMMARY 
     In various embodiments, methods for deskewing media within a valuable media depository and a media deskew module for the valuable media depository are provided. 
     According to an aspect presented herein, a method for deskewing valuable media within a deskew module is presented. Specifically, a leading edge of a media item is detected as being proximate to an exit of a deskew module. A first side edge of the media item is urged in a direction that is perpendicular to a direction of travel of the media item through the deskew module and a second side edge of the media item is forced in a second direction against a wall of the deskew module. The leading edge of the media item is pulled through the exit of the deskew module. 
     According to another aspect presented herein, a method for deskewing valuable media within a deskew module is presented. More particularly, a stack of media items are detected adjacent to an exit of a deskew module. Rollers are rotated in a direction that is perpendicular to a direction of travel of the stack through the deskew module and a bottom media item of the stack is forced into alignment against a wall of the deskew module. The bottom media item is urged through the exit of the deskew module. The process iterates back to the rotating of the rollers for a next bottom media item until a last media item of the stack is urged through the exit. 
     In still another aspect presented herein, a deskew module is presented. The deskew module includes: a lower track surface, upper rollers situated above the lower track surface, lower rollers located under flush at first portions of the lower track surface, deskew rollers recessed beneath second portions of the lower track surface, and pick rollers situated adjacent to an exit of the deskew apparatus. The upper rollers are configured to lower onto a topmost item of a stack of media items upon detection a bottommost item of the stack at an entry sensor into the deskew apparatus. The upper rollers and the lower rollers are configured to rotate in a first direction towards an exit of the deskew apparatus upon entry of the bottommost item of the stack into the deskew apparatus to urge the stack towards the exit of the deskew apparatus. The upper rollers and the lower rollers are configured to stop rotating in the first direction when the bottommost item is detected at a second sensor adjacent to the pick rollers, and the upper rollers are configured to raise off of the topmost item when the bottommost item is detected at the second sensor. The deskew rollers are configured to make a complete revolution and rotate in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction when the upper rollers and the lower rollers stop rotating to cause the bottommost item to align against a wall of the deskew apparatus. The upper rollers are configured to lower back onto the topmost item of the stack without rotation after the complete revolution of the deskew rollers. The pick rollers are configured to activate after the upper rollers are lowered back onto the topmost item of the stack to grab the bottommost item from the stack and pull the bottommost item through the exit. The upper rollers are configured to lift off the topmost item once the bottommost item is pulled through the exit based on detection of a trailing edge of the bottommost item passing over an exit sensor, and the process iterates back to the deskew rollers rotating until a last item of the stack is pulled through the exit by the pick rollers. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1A  is a diagram depicting a deposit module of a Self-Service Terminal having a deskew module, according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 1B  is a diagram depicting components of a deskew module from a side cross-sectional view, according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 1C  is are diagrams depicting views of a D-shaped roller component of the deskew module, according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 1D  is a diagram depicting a top-down view of the deskew module illustrating the D-shaped rollers in a partial rotation with the upper components removed from the deskew module, according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 1E  is a diagram depicting a gear shaft and drive shaft of a D-shaped roller from a front cross-sectional view, according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 1F  is a diagram depicting the upper rollers of the deskew module from a top-down view, according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 1G  is a diagram depicting pivot levers of the upper rollers of the deskew module with a side cross-sectional view, according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 2  is a diagram of a method for deskewing media, according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 3  is a diagram of another method for deskewing media, according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 4  is a deskew module, according to an example embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       FIG. 1A  is a diagram depicting a one-sided view of a valuable media depository  100 , according to an example embodiment (also referred to as a deposit module). It is to be noted that the valuable media depository is shown with only those components relevant to understanding what has been added and modified to a conventional depository for purposes of providing deskewing of limp media fed into the depository  100 . 
     Depository  100  is suitable for use within an Automated Teller Machine (ATM), which can be utilized to process deposited banknotes and checks (valuable media as a mixed bunch if desired). Deposit module  100  has an access mouth  101  (media or document infeed) through which incoming checks and/or banknotes are deposited or outgoing checks and/or banknotes are dispensed. Mouth  101  is aligned with an infeed aperture in the fascia of the ATM in which the depository  100  is located, which thus provides an input/output slot to the customer. A bunch (stack) of one or more items (valuable media) is input or output. Incoming checks and/or banknotes follow a first transport path  102  away from mouth  101  in a substantially horizontal direction from right to left shown in the  FIG. 1A . They then pass through a novel combined separator and deskew module  104  (hereinafter just “deskew module  104 ” and discussed in detail below with reference to the  FIGS. 1B-1G ). A single item of media exits deskew module  104  along another pathway portion  105 , which is also substantially horizontal and right to left. With each media item de-skewed and aligned, each media item is read and/or validated by imaging cameras  106  and a Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR) reader  107 . 
     Items are then are directed substantially vertically downwards to a point between two nip rollers  108 . Nip rollers  108  cooperate and are rotated in opposite directions with respect to each other to either draw deposited checks and/or banknotes inwards (and urge those checks and/or banknotes towards the right hand side in  FIG. 1A ), or during another mode of operation, rollers  108  can be rotated in an opposite fashion to direct processed checks and/or banknotes downwards in the direction shown by arrow A in  FIG. 1A  into a check or banknote bin  110 . Incoming checks and/or banknotes, which are moved by nip rollers  108  towards the right, enter a diverter mechanism  120 . Diverter mechanism  120  can either divert the incoming checks and/or banknotes upwards (in  FIG. 1A ) into a re-buncher unit  125 , or downwards in the direction of arrow B in  FIG. 1A  into a cash bin  130 , or to the right-hand side shown in  FIG. 1A  into an escrow  140 . Items of media from escrow  140  can selectively be removed from the drum and re-processed after temporary storage. This results in items of media moving from escrow  140  towards the left-hand side of  FIG. 1A  where again they will enter diverter mechanism  120 . Diverter mechanism  120  can be utilized to allow the transported checks and/or banknotes to move substantially unimpeded towards the left-hand side and thus nip rollers  108  or upwards towards re-buncher  125 . Currency notes from escrow  140  can be directed to re-buncher  125  or downwards into banknote bin  130 . 
     As used herein, the phrase “valuable media” refers to media of value, such as currency, coupons, checks, negotiable instruments, value tickets, and the like. 
     For purposes of the discussions that follow with respect to  FIGS. 1A-1G , “valuable media” is referred to as “media” and the “valuable media depository” is referred to as a “depository.” Additionally, valuable media or media item may be referred to as a “document,” “check,” “note,” and/or “currency” herein. 
     It is also noted that some dimensions and measurements may be implicitly or explicitly illustrated with the discussions of  FIGS. 1B-1G , these dimensions and measurements may be altered without departing from the novel teachings presented herein for deskewing damaged media within a valuable media depository. 
     As will become apparent with the teachings herein, a novel deskew module  104  allows for both media item separation from a stack of media items and media item deskewing. 
     That is, what conventionally entailed two separate modules for two separate media functions are now processed in a different manner by a new and novel deskew module  104 . The new deskew module  104  allows the length required of the transport pathway  102  (for a conventional media separator and deskew module) to be reduced by approximately 204 mm from a conventional 520 mm to 316 mm. This substantial reduction in track length is achieved without any reduction in functionality and with new functionality (deskewing a media item from a bunch of media items). Deskew module  104  employs less componentry than a conventional deskew module including less: optical sensors, solenoids or motors, belts, skid plates, axles, bearings, transport motors, and drive gears. Furthermore, D-shaped rollers  104 E of deskew module  104  allows for proper deskew functionality without use of a conventionally required solenoid to engage and disengage the deskew mechanism. As a result, deskew module achieves enhanced functionality while reducing costs, complexity, and space (footprint) requirements associated with conventional media separators and conventional media deskew modules. 
     Two functions are achieved by deskew module  104 : 1) media separation from a stack or bunch (also referred to herein as media “picking”) and 2) media deskewing within depository  100 . These functions are achieved in the same track space (area of media transport) and within a same module (deskew module  104 ). In some cases, the media separation is performed after the media picking (separating), which is a different order for which these two functions are processed from that which has been done and believed to be necessary in the industry (conventionally media item picking (separating) occurs before media item deskewing). 
       FIG. 1B  is a diagram depicting components of novel deskew module  104  from a side cross-sectional view, according to an example embodiment. It is noted that only those components necessary for understanding novel deskew module  104  are labeled and illustrated, as other components may exist as well but are unnecessary for comprehending the illustrated embodiments presented herein. 
     Deskew module  104  includes an entry or infeed  104 A through which a stack of media items are received onto the transport pathway of deskew module  104 . Entry of the stack is detected by a first track sensor  104 B. Flexible (silicone based or other flexible material) lower rollers  104 C engage a bottom media item on the bottom of the stack and transport the stack through deskew module  104  in a direction toward a media exit  104 J. Simultaneously, flexible (silicone based or other flexible material) upper rollers  104 D engage the topmost media item of the bunch and rotate in the direction toward media exit  104 J. Upper rollers also flex/bend to provide resistance or force (pushing down during rotation on a topmost item of the stack) to maintain the integrity of the stack as lower rollers  104 C and upper rollers  104 D simultaneously rotate in the direction of media exit  104 C. 
     When a bottom item of the stack covers second track sensor  104 F, upper rollers  104 D stop rotating and are lifted up and disengage the topmost item of the stack while simultaneously lower rollers  104 C stop rotating flush along the track surface. The stack of media items becomes stationary, at this point in time, in front of media pick mechanism  104 H. 
     Next, D-shaped rollers  104 E are engaged to rotate in a direction that is perpendicular to the direction of travel of the stack through deskew module  104  and that is perpendicular to a side wall or edge  104   k  (illustrated in  FIG. 1D  below). D-shaped rollers  104 E are biased and in an initial orientation such that the straight-line portion of the D is flush with or just below the surface of the track surface when lower rollers  104 C and upper rollers  104 D are rotating in the direction of media exit  104 J and while the stack is being moved along the track surface. This ensures that rounded portions of D-shaped rollers  104 E do not impeded the stack as the stack is moving from entry  104 A towards exit  104 J. Once lower rollers  104 C and upper rollers  104 D stop rotating and are recessed and raised, respectively, a single gear motor for 3 positioned D-shaped rollers  104 E is activated to rotate a single drive shaft  104 M (shown in  FIG. 1E ). This movement of shaft  104 M causes three sets of gears  104 L (shown in  FIG. 1E ) to rotate and lift each D-shaped roller  104 E up above a surface of the track forcing rounded portions of each D-shaped roller  104 E to engage an edge of at least the bottom media item of the stack and forcing an opposing edge of that media item against a side wall  104 K (shown in  FIG. 1C ), which aligns the bottom media item of the stack against side wall  104   k.    
     Because upper rollers  104 D are raised when D-rollers  104 E make a complete revolution by rotating perpendicular to the direction of travel of the stack (or perpendicular to side wall  104   k ) through deskew module  104 , the stack is able to slip and flex freely as D-rollers rotate. 
     Once a complete revolution of D-rollers  104 E has completed, upper rollers  104 D are lowered applying downward force onto the topmost item of the stack for stack stability. Upper rollers  104 D are lowered via transport roller disengagement solenoid  104 I. Pick mechanism rollers  104 H are energized and activated to rotate in the direction of media exit  104 J. this causes the bottom media item of the stack to be separated from the stack and pulled through toward a third track sensor  104 G. Once the picked or separated media item has passed third track sensor  104 G, pick mechanism rollers  104 H are stopped indicating that the picked media item has exited deskew module  104  through media exit  104 J and is being processed by other downstream modules of depository  100 . 
     Next, upper transport rollers  104 D are raised and disengaged from a topmost item of the stack, D-rollers  104 E are rotated a full revolution, upper transport rollers  104 D are lowered back on to the topmost item of the stack through solenoid  104 I, pick mechanism rollers  104 H are rotated towards media exit  104 J, and a next bottom item of the stack is pulled through media exit  104 J. This process repeats until there are no media items left in the stack (which is detectable when no media item is covering second track sensor  104 F). 
     It is noted that a controller connected to deskew module  104  allows for activation, deactivation, raising, and lowering of rollers  104 C,  104 D,  104 H and rotation of D-rollers  104 E. The controller includes firmware and/or software residing in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium as executable instructions that when processed by a processor of depository  100  allows for detection of covered and uncovered sensors  104 B,  104 F, and  104 G, and corresponding activation and deactivation (including raising and lowering) of rollers  104 C,  104 D,  104 E, and  104 H (which entails activation/deactivation of motors or solenoid  104 I). That is, a circuit board within the valuable media depository  100  includes component circuitry and firmware programmed to selectively activate and deactivate the electromechanical components of deskew module  104  based on signal received from track sensors  104 B,  104 F, and  104 G and timings or signals associated with a completed rotation of D-shaped rollers  104 E. 
       FIG. 1C  is are diagrams depicting views of a D-shaped roller  104 E component of the deskew module  104 , according to an example embodiment. 
     The topmost left image illustrates the D-shaped roller  104 E in a biased position where the straight-line edge of the D-shaped roller  104 E is flush with the track surface of deskew module  104 . The aperture (hole) of the D-shaped roller  104 E includes a circumference of approximately 6 mm. The distance from the center of the aperture to the straight-line edge is approximately 9 mm. The circumference of the rounded portions of the D-shaped roller  104 E is approximately 25 mm. The D-shaped roller  104 E is rotated in a direction that is perpendicular to sidewall  104 K of deskew module  104  from the aperture (or hole portion of the D-shaped roller  104 E). 
     The topmost right image illustrates a width (thickness) of the D-shaped roller  104 E as approximately 8 mm and illustrates a view of D-shaped roller  104 E when it is rotated such that the straight-line portion of the D-shaped roller  104 E is perpendicular to the track surface. The bottommost image illustrates the D-shaped roller  104 E from another side view with the straight-line edge facing forward. 
       FIG. 1D  is a diagram depicting a top-down view of deskew module  104  illustrating D-shaped rollers  104 E in a partial rotation with upper rollers  104 D removed from deskew module  104 , according to an example embodiment. 
     Three D-shaped rollers  104 E are shown in an initial and partial rotation in the direction of the three dotted arrows toward and perpendicular to sidewall  104 K. Moreover, lower rollers  104 C are shown recessed from the track surface (retracted) during rotation of D-shaped rollers  104 E. 
       FIG. 1E  is a diagram depicting a gear arrangement  104 L and drive shaft  104 M of a D-shaped roller  104 E from a front cross-sectional view, according to an example embodiment. 
     A single drive shaft  104 M or axle engages three gear arrangements  104 L ( FIG. 1E  illustrating on of the three) and is rotated causing each gear arrangement  104 L to rotate each D-shaped roller  104 E in unison and synchronization with the remaining D-shaped rollers  104 E. Rotation is about the hole or aperture portion of the D-shaped rollers  104 E and the direction is perpendicular to sidewall  104 K (perpendicular to the direction of travel of the stack through deskew module  104 ). 
       FIG. 1F  is a diagram depicting upper rollers  104 D of deskew module  104  from a top-down view, according to an example embodiment. 
     There are two sets of 4 upper rollers  104 D, each set covering a portion of a width of the track surface. 
       FIG. 1G  is a diagram depicting pivot levers  104 N of each upper roller  104 D of deskew module  104  with a side cross-sectional view, according to an example embodiment. 
     Each upper roller  104 D is constructed of a flexible material, such as silicone, which permits each roller  104 D to bend or compress and flex when lowered and engaged on a topmost item of a stack. This applies downward pressure against the stack, keeping the stack firm and stable during transport from entry  104 A to second track sensor  104 F. 
     Upper rollers  104 D are lifted and disengage a topmost item of the stack when the controller receives a signal that second track sensor  104 F is covered by a bottommost media item of the stack. The pivot levers  104 N lift upper rollers  104 D up off the topmost item of the stack. This release the downward force and allows D-shaped rollers  104 E to slip over outer edges of the stack during rotation. 
     Upper rollers  104 D rotate when lower rollers  104 C are rotating and rotate in the same direction from entry  104 A towards exit  104 J. When a bottommost item is being picked (separated) from the stack (after a full rotation of D-shaped rollers  104 E), solenoid  104 I lowers upper rollers  104 D back onto a topmost item of the stack using levers  104 N (upper rollers  104 D are not rotating when lowered and do not rotate when fully lowered). 
     One now appreciates how both media separation and media deskewing can be achieved within a single novel deskew module  104 . Deskew module  104  is less complex and requires less componentry than conventional deskew modules. Furthermore, deskew module  104  occupies substantially less track length than what is required by conventional deskew modules. The novel arrangement and shape of D-Shaped rollers  104 E combined with novel upper rollers  104 D permit deskew module  104  to handle a stack of media items and properly align or deskew at least a bottommost item of the stack (the media item picked or separated from the stack). 
     Notably, the track path upon which the media is transported or urged through deskew module  104  lacks or is devoid of any transport belt, which has conventionally been present and believed to be necessary. D-shaped rollers  104 E are biased with the straight-line edge of the D-shape, which allows the media stack of media items to move unimpeded when pushed toward exit  104 J by lower rollers  104 C. Lower rollers  104 C are recessed beneath the track path surface and raised and rotated in the direction of exit  104 J to urge the stack towards exit  104 J until a bottom media item is detected as covering second track sensor  104 F. There is no transport belt mechanism to impede the D-shaped rollers  104 E when the D-shaped rollers  104 E are activated and rotated perpendicular to the movement of the stack through module  104  and perpendicular to sidewall  104 K. Conventionally, this could not be achieved because a belt situated on top of the track surface would block direct contact of any lower rollers or drivers from engage the bottom item of the stack. 
     It is also to be noted, combined deskew/pick module  104  can process different sized media items (different lengths and/or widths) present in a stack of the media items as well as same sized media items present in a stack of the media items. Furthermore, the media items can be of different types within the stack (currency and checks) as well as a same type of media item within the stack. 
     In an embodiment, a traditional media separator&#39;s pick mechanism can be placed as an infeed to deskew module  104 , such that deskew module  104  performs deskew or media alignment on a single media item; rather than a single media item located at a bottom of a stack of media items. 
     In an embodiment, a speed of rotation with which D-shaped rollers  104 E are activated to rotate causing more than one media item in the stack to align against wall  104 K, such that more than one pick of the media items can be achieved from the bottom of the stack before upper rollers  104 D are raised off the topmost item of the stack and D-rollers  104 E are rotated again. That is, because upper rollers  104 D are disengaged from the top media item of the stack, the media items are able to be slammed by the speed and force of rotation of D-shaped rollers  104 E against wall  104   k  in unison; this aligns more than just the bottom-most media item against sidewall  104 K. In some cases, depending on whether each media item in the stack is of the same size (length and width) and, perhaps, the height of the stack (based on the number of media items in the stack), this process may be able to properly align all the media items in the stack, such that pick mechanism rollers  104 H can be activated to serial pick each bottom media item from the stack without disengaging and lifting upper rollers  104 D from the topmost item of the stack and without successively rotating D-shaped rollers  104 E for each bottommost item picked from the stack. 
     Conventionally, the length of track surface believed necessary for the media separator (pick mechanism) and the deskew module was 530 mm based on a maximum sized media item of approximately 225 mm. The track length conventionally needed required two separate areas (picking and deskewing upon which to handle a note or at least 450 mm (to take from the bottom of the stack and feed to the deskew module)) plus an area for moving within the deskew module a single media item being deskewed angularly/diagonally. As a result, the length is approximately 530 mm. The present combined deskew module  104  and pick mechanism  104 G,  104 H,  104 I, and  104 J has a track length of approximately 316 mm. This is because the stack is processed during deskewing such that 225 mm (previously needed by the conventional media separator) can be dispensed with and because deskewing is achieved via perpendicular movement rather than diagonal movement. So, track associated with a conventional media separator is substantially reduced and track associated with deskewing is substantially reduced with the combined deskew module/pick module  104 . 
     In an embodiment, the length of track required by the deskew module  104  can be configured based on a maximum sized media item being processed within depository  100 . 
     In an embodiment, deskew module  104  includes 3D-shaped rollers  104 E to account for a longest length of media item of approximately 225 mm and a shortest length of media item of approximately 127 mm. In an embodiment, the number of D-shaped rollers  104 E can be reduced or increased based on the longer or shorter expected media item being processed through depository  100 . 
     In an embodiment, the circumference of circular (rounded) portions of each D-shaped roller  104 E is dependent upon is longer than the sideways movement required to push a smallest media item into wall  104 K. In an embodiment, the narrowest media item is approximately 63.5 mm wide, the track width is 110 mm requiring a maximum movement of 46.5 mm, and the circumference of circular portions of each D-shaped roller  104 E being 57 mm, which is 10.5 mm larger than a narrowest check (based on the maximum movement of 46.5 mm). 
     In an embodiment, depository  100  is integrated into an ATM. 
     In an embodiment, depository  100  is integrated into a Self-Service Terminal (SST) that handles valuable media deposits and dispenses valuable media for transactions. 
     In an embodiment, depository  100  is integrated into a Point-Of-Sale (POS) terminal that handles valuable media deposits and dispenses valuable media for transactions. 
     These and other embodiments will now be discussed with reference to  FIGS. 2-4 . 
       FIG. 2  is a diagram of a method  200  for deskewing media within combined deskew/pick module  104 , according to an example embodiment. The method  200  when processed controls modes of operation for a deskew module  104  integrated into a valuable media depository  100 . The method  200  is implemented as executed instructions representing one or more software modules referred to as a deskew controller. The instructions reside in a non-transitory computer-readable medium and are executed by one or more processors of the valuable media depository  100 . 
     In an embodiment, a circuit board of depository  100  is connected to componentry of deskew module  104  and the circuit board includes a processor that executes the deskew controller from a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of the circuit board. 
     In an embodiment, the media depository  100  is a deposit module. 
     In an embodiment, the media depository  100  is a recycler module. 
     In an embodiment, the media depository  100  is a peripheral device integrated into an SST. In an embodiment, the SST is an ATM. In an embodiment, the SST is a kiosk. 
     In an embodiment, the media depository  100  is a peripheral device integrated into a Point-Of-Sale (POS) terminal. 
     In an embodiment, the deskew controller receives signals (over a wired connection) from component elements of deskew module  100  and performs processing discussed above with the  FIGS. 1B-1G  to activate, deactivate, and selectively control elements of deskew module  100 . 
     At  210  deskew controller detect a leading edge of a media item proximate to an exit of a deskew module. This can be done via a track sensor  104 F that is adjacent to pick rollers  104 H near the exit of the deskew module  104 J or exit sensor  104 G. 
     In an embodiment, at  211 , the deskew controller detects the leading edge at an entry of the deskew module through a first or entry sensor  104 B. The detection causes upper rollers  104 D to activate and lower rollers  104 C to activate, which urges the media item within the deskew module until the leading edge of the media item covers a second sensor  104 F proximate to the exit. 
     In an embodiment of  211  and at  212 , the deskew controller lowers the upper rollers  104 D onto a topmost item of a stack of media items being processed through the deskew module. The media item is a bottommost item of the stack of media items. 
     In an embodiment of  212  and at  213 , the deskew controller raises the upper rollers  104 D off the topmost item when the second sensor  104 F reports detection of the leading edge of the media item at the second sensor  104 F. 
     At  220 , the deskew controller urges a first side edge of the media item in a direction that is perpendicular to a direction of travel of the media item through the deskew module. This forces a second side edge (opposite the first side edge) of the media item against a wall of the deskew module and aligns the second side edge of the media item with the wall. 
     In an embodiment of  213  and  220 , at  221 , the deskew controller activates D-shaped rollers  104 D from a lower track surface of the deskew module and rotates the D-shaped rollers  104 D towards the wall of the deskew module for at least one complete revolution. 
     In an embodiment of  221  and at  222 , the deskew controller returns straight-line (flat) edges or sides of the D-shaped rollers back to an original and biased position following the at least one complete revolution with the flat edges flush to the lower track surface. 
     In an embodiment of  222  and at  223 , the deskew controller lowers the upper rollers  104 D back onto the topmost item of the stack following the at least one complete revolution of the D-shaped rollers. 
     At  230 , the deskew controller pulls the leading edge of the media item through the exit of the deskew module. 
     In an embodiment of  231  and  230 , at  231 , the deskew controller activates pick rollers  104 H adjacent to the second sensor  104 F and pulls the media item as the bottommost item from a bottom of the stack through the exit  104 J of the deskew module (detectable through media exit sensor  104 G). 
     In an embodiment of  231  and at  232 , the deskew controller iterates back to  213  with a next bottommost media item from the stack as the media item pulled through the exit  104 J of the deskew module until each available or all of the available media items in the stack are pulled and processed through the exit  104 J of the deskew module. 
     It is noted that the deskew controller can be processed in one embodiment (discussed beginning at embodiment  212 ) to deskew media items from a stack or bunch of media items. However, in some embodiments, the deskew controller can be processed on a single media item. In this way, the pick mechanism can either be situated at the front of the deskew module (for single media item deskewing) or situated after the deskew module (for single item deskewing on a stack). 
       FIG. 3  is a diagram of another method  300  for deskewing media within a combined deskew/pick module  104  of a depository  100 , according to an example embodiment. The method  200  when processed controls electro mechanical elements/components of module  104 . The method  200  is implemented as executed instructions representing one or more software modules referred to as a media bunch deskewer and picker. The instructions reside in a non-transitory computer-readable medium and are executed by one or more processors of the valuable media depository. 
     In an embodiment, the media bunch deskewer and picker is executed by one or more processors of the valuable media depository  100 . 
     That is, a circuit board of depository  100  includes wired connections to elements/components of module  104 . Signals are received from elements over the wired connections and a processor of the circuit board executes the media bunch deskewer and picker from a non-transitory medium of the circuit board. This causes the processor to send control signals that selectively activate, control, and deactivate the elements/components of module  104  to perform processing discussed above with the  FIGS. 1B-1G  and/or method  200  of  FIG. 2 . 
     In an embodiment, the media depository  100  is a deposit module. 
     In an embodiment, the media depository  100  is a recycler module. 
     In an embodiment, the media depository  100  is a peripheral device integrated into an SST. In an embodiment, the SST is an ATM. In an embodiment, the SST is a kiosk. 
     In an embodiment, the media depository  100  is a peripheral device integrated into a POS terminal. 
     In an embodiment, the media bunch deskewer and picker is the controller and/or the deskew controller discussed above with the  FIGS. 1B-1G  and the  FIG. 2 . 
     In an embodiment, the media bunch deskewer and picker presents another and, in some ways, enhance perspective of the processing depicted in the method  200  (presented above with the discussion of the  FIG. 2  and the deskew controller). 
     At  310 , the media bunch deskewer and picker detects a stack of media items adjacent to an exit of a deskew module. 
     In an embodiment, at  311 , the media bunch deskewer and picker urges the stack from an entry  104 A of the deskew module  100  to a track sensor  104 F adjacent to the exit using upper rollers  104 D that are lowered onto the stack at the entry  104 A and lower rollers  104 C that are flush with a lower track surface of the deskew module  100 . 
     At  320 , the media bunch deskewer and picker rotates rollers  104 E in a direction that is perpendicular to a direction of travel of the stack through the deskew module  100  and force a bottom media item against a wall of the deskew module  100 . 
     In an embodiment, at  321 , the media bunch deskewer and picker raises and disengages upper rollers  104 D from a topmost item of the stack prior to rotating the rollers at  320 . 
     In an embodiment, at  322 , the media bunch deskewer and picker activates D-shaped rollers  104 E situated on a lower track surface of the deskew module  100  as the rollers that are rotated. Straight-line (flat) edges or sides of the D-shaped rollers  104 E are flush with the track surface before  320  and after rotating a complete revolution in the direction. 
     In an embodiment of  322  and  323 , the media bunch deskewer and picker activates a single drive shaft connected to a set of three D-shaped rollers  104 E and rotates the set of three in unison and simultaneously after the upper rollers  104 D are lifted and disengaged from the topmost item of the stack. 
     In an embodiment of  323  and at  324 , the single drive shaft engages a separate gear train for each D-shaped rollers  104 E. Each gear train rotates a corresponding D-shaped rollers  104 E for the complete revolution in the direction. 
     In an embodiment, at  325 , the media bunch deskewer and picker forces an outer edge of at least the bottom media item in the direction when the rollers rotates in the direction causing an opposing edge of the bottom media item of the stack to align and abut against the wall. 
     At  330 , the media bunch deskewer and picker urges the bottom media item through the exit of the deskew module. 
     In an embodiment, at  331 , the media bunch deskewer and picker activates pick rollers  104 H that grab the leading edge of the bottom media item of the stack, separates the bottom media item from the stack, and pulls the bottom media item through the exit  104 J of the deskew module  100 . 
     At  340 , the media bunch deskewer and picker iterates back to  320  for a next bottom media item from the stack. This process continues until a last media item of the stack is urged through the exit of the deskew module. 
       FIG. 4  is a deskew module  400 , according to an example embodiment. The deskew module  400  is integrated within valuable media depository  400  processes valuable media and includes a variety of mechanical, electrical, and software/firmware components, some of which were discussed above with reference to the  FIGS. 1A-1G  and the  FIGS. 2-3 . 
     In an embodiment, the valuable media depository  400  is a deposit module. 
     In an embodiment, the valuable media depository  400  is a recycler module. 
     In an embodiment, the valuable media depository  400  is the depository  100 . 
     In an embodiment, the valuable media depository  400  is the depository that performs any of the methods  150 ,  200 , and  300  of the  FIGS. 1H and 2-3 . 
     In an embodiment, the valuable media depository  400  is a peripheral device integrated into an SST. In an embodiment, the SST is an ATM. In an embodiment, the SST is a kiosk. 
     In an embodiment, the valuable media depository  400  is a peripheral device integrated into a POS terminal. 
     The deskew module  400  is combined deskew/pick module  104 . Components/elements of deskew module  400  are controlled over wired circuitry within depository  100  by a controller that is executed by a processor of a circuit board within the depository  100  from a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The controller performs processing discussed above with the  FIGS. 1B-1G, 2, and 3  to selectively control, activate, and deactivate the components/elements of deskew module  400 . 
     Deskew module  400  includes a lower track surface  401 , upper rollers  402 , lower rollers  403 , deskew rollers  404 , and pick rollers  405 . 
     The upper rollers  402  are oriented and situated above the lower track surface  401 . The lower rollers  403  are recessed in a biased position beneath first portions of the lower track surface  401 . The deskew rollers  404  are recessed beneath second portions of the lower track surface  401  in a biased position. It is to be noted that the first portions and the second portions are intermixed with one another, such that a single deskew roller  404  is situated between sets of the lower rollers  403  as is depicted in  FIG. 1D  above. Thus, the first portions and second portions are non-contiguous portions within the lower track surface  401 . The pick rollers  405  are situated and adjacent to an exit of the deskew apparatus  400 . 
     The upper rollers  402  are configured to lower onto a topmost item of a stack of media items upon detection a bottommost item of the stack at an entry sensor into the deskew apparatus  400 . The lower rollers  403  are configured slightly under flush with the lower track surface  401  upon entry of the bottommost item of the stack into the deskew apparatus  400 . Furthermore, the upper rollers  402  and the lower rollers  403  are configured to rotate in a first direction towards an exit of the deskew apparatus  400  upon entry of the bottommost item of the stack into the deskew apparatus  400  to urge the stack towards the exit of the deskew apparatus  400 . 
     The upper rollers  401  and the lower rollers  403  are configured to stop rotating in the first direction when the bottommost item is detected at a second sensor adjacent to the pick rollers  405 , at which point the upper rollers  402  are configured to raise off of the topmost item when the bottommost item is detected at the second sensor. 
     The deskew rollers  404  are configured to make a complete revolution and rotate in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction when the upper rollers  402  and the lower rollers  403  stop rotating to cause the bottommost item to align against a wall of the deskew apparatus  400 . At this point, the upper rollers  402  are configured to lower back onto the topmost item of the stack without rotation after the complete revolution of the deskew rollers  404 . 
     The pick rollers  405  are configured to activate after the upper rollers  402  are lowered back onto the topmost item of the stack to grab the bottommost item from the stack and pull the bottommost item through the exit. Next, the upper rollers  402  are configured to raise off the topmost item of the stack upon detection of the bottommost item passing over an exit sensor. 
     The deskew apparatus  400  is configured to iterate back to rotation of the deskew rollers  404  until a last item of the stack is pulled through the exit by the pick rollers  405 . 
     A controller receives wired signals from the sensors and sends instructions to the rollers  402 - 405  to activate and to deactivate. The controller is a set of executable instructions residing in a non-transitory computer-readable medium that are executed by a processor of a circuit board. The circuit board is integrated into depository  100 . In an embodiment, the circuit board may reside on the deskew apparatus  400  in such case other executable instructions executed on processors of the depository  100  interact with the circuit board of the deskew apparatus  400 . 
     The above description is illustrative, and not restrictive. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of embodiments should therefore be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. 
     In the foregoing description of the embodiments, various features are grouped together in a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting that the claimed embodiments have more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Description of the Embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate exemplary embodiment.