Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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CASH HANDLING
Technical field
The present application relates to handling of cash in a cash handling system
comprising a plurality of interacting entities. Specifically, the handling of
cash
involves transporting cash between system entities as well as transmitting
information
signals between cash handling system entities.
Background
Cash, not least in the form of bank notes, will continue to fulfill a large
and vital role
or function in payment systems all around the world for a long time to come.
Although electronic payment systems in which cash in the form of bank notes
have
been eliminated are becoming more and more widespread, there is still a large
need to
cater for transactions that are simple and have no need for complex electronic
equipment.
The simplicity of using cash as a means for performing transactions is,
however,
closely and inevitably coupled to problems of how to prevent unauthorized
access to
the cash. Such problems are relevant with respect to all stages involved when
preparing for and making any transaction involving cash. For example, when
preparing for and when performing transport of cash from a shop, retail
location or
automatic teller machine (ATM) to a cash depository, such as a cash center, or
financial institute, such as a bank, there are typically a large number of
procedures
and protection systems involved in order to prevent unauthorized access to the
cash.
Needless to say, these procedures are typically very complicated and involve
the use
of expensive equipment and staff.
Further related to these, more direct, problems of preventing unauthorized
physical
access to the cash, are problems of how to simplify and facilitate for
interacting
entities in a cash handling system in terms of handling ownership and
responsibility
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with respect to cash during different stages of controlling flow of cash in a
cash
handling system.
Such problems and related problems have been discussed in the prior art.
Examples of such disclosures include US patent application publication
2004/0030622 in which a currency management method and system is described.
A currency transportation plan is established that includes a currency
delivery
schedule for transport of currency between nodes in a system. The schedule is
established using information pertaining to a currency inventory, a forecast
for
currency demand and costs of handling currency.
Moreover, US patent number 6,655,584 discloses a system for handling
banknotes within a geographically limited area. An information center
communicates with ATMs to exchange data relating to banknotes. Transport
vehicles transport the banknotes to and from the machines in response to
orders
from the information center issued on the basis of information sent from the
machines to the information center.
Summary of the invention
Although relating to cash handling in general, the cited prior art disclosures
are
more directed to solving problems of how to minimize manual handling of bank
notes, and provides solutions that involve creating schedules and plans for
transporting currency in currency management systems.
An object of some embodiments of the present invention is hence to overcome
drawbacks related to cash handling disclosed in the prior art.
In addition to providing a solution to a general problem of how to minimize
manual
handling of currency, some embodiments of the present invention address a more
specific problem of how to improve security in cash handling while at the same
time providing flexible and cost effective cash handling in a cash handling
system.
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Hence, in one aspect, some embodiments of the present invention provide a cash
transport apparatus and a method of controlling operation of such a cash
transport
apparatus.
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That is, a method of controlling operation of a cash transport apparatus in a
cash
handling system is provided. The cash transport apparatus is configured to
store cash,
receive and dispense cash and exchange information with a plurality of cash
handling
entities in the cash handling system. The method comprises establishing a
first
signaling connection with a first cash handling entity, communicating first
information signals between the cash transport apparatus and the first cash
handling
entity, and controlling flow of cash between the cash transport apparatus and
the first
cash handling entity. This is followed by establishing a second signaling
connection
with a second cash handling entity, communicating second information signals
between the cash transport apparatus and the second cash handling entity, and
controlling flow of cash between the cash transport apparatus and the second
cash
handling entity.
By not being an integrated part or sub-unit of any entity in the cash handling
system
and thereby not dedicated for use in connection with only one entity, which is
typically the situation with respect to prior art transport systems, a
transport unit and
control of a transport unit according to the invention is very advantageous in
terms of
versatility of use. As a result of such versatility other advantages become
apparent,
such as efficiency in terms of cost and speed.
Prior to the control of the flow of cash with the first cash handling entity,
control of
electromechanical means may be performed to establish a mechanical engagement
between cash reception and dispensing means in the transport apparatus and the
first
cash handling entity. Moreover, after the control of the flow of cash with the
first
cash handling entity, control of electromechanical means may be performed to
release
the mechanical engagement between cash reception and dispensing means in the
transport apparatus and the first cash handling entity, and prior to the
control of the
flow of cash with the second cash handling entity, control of
electromechanical
means may be performed to establish a mechanical engagement between cash
reception and dispensing means in the transport apparatus and the second cash
handling entity, and after the control of the flow of cash with the second
cash
handling entity, control of electromechanical means may be performed to
release the
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mechanical engagement between cash reception and dispensing means in the
transport apparatus and the second cash handling entity.
The establishing of any of the first and the second signaling connection may
comprise
communication of an identifier of any of the cash transport apparatus, the
first cash
handling entity and the second cash handling entity.
Any of the first information signals and the second information signals may
comprise
information pertaining to a cash flow amount and the control of flow of cash
between
the cash transport apparatus and any of the first and second cash handling
entities
may comprise flow control in dependence on the information pertaining to cash
flow
amount. Moreover, the control of flow of cash between the cash transport
apparatus
and any of the first and second cash handling entities may comprise
controlling
recycling of cash. That is, cash dispensed from one entity into the transport
apparatus
may be dispensed into another entity. The information pertaining to cash flow
amounts that is exchanged between the transport apparatus and entities in the
system
facilitates this recycling operation and by this provides a further advantage
of
efficient cash storage use.
The communication of first information signals and the control of flow of cash
between the cash transport apparatus and the first cash handling, entity may
be
performed at least partly in a simultaneous manner. Similarly, the
communication of
second information signals and the control of flow of cash between the cash
transport
apparatus and the second cash handling entity may be performed at least partly
in a
simultaneous manner.
The communication of any of the first information signals and the second
information
signals may comprise communication of confirmation information subsequent to
the
control of flow of cash between the cash transport apparatus and the first and
second
cash handling entity, respectively. The confirmation information may comprise
information pertaining to a cash flow amount of any of the flows of cash
between the
cash transport apparatus and the first and second cash handling entity,
respectively.
The information pertaining to a cash flow amount of any of the flows of cash
between
the cash transport apparatus and the first and second cash handling entity,
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respectively, may also comprise instructions for changing ownership of a cash
amount. That is, as a result of the instructions to change ownership, when
these have
been acted upon by, e.g., a bank, a bank account belonging to an entity from
which
cash has been conveyed may be credited with the amount of cash that has been
5 conveyed to the transport apparatus. This is advantageous in that it may
clarify the
distribution of responsibility for specific amounts of cash. For example, an
owner of
an entity that has submitted cash to a transport apparatus, e.g. a shop keeper
having a
cash handling apparatus, will get an increased feeling of comfort knowing that
the
cash that has left his shop is already credited to his bank account.
Detection of at least one note having a predetermined type may also be
performed,
and depending on the detection, the control of flow of cash may then comprise
controlling rejection of the at least one note having the predetermined type.
The
predetermined type of note may be a potentially counterfeit note.
In some embodiments the first cash handling entity is a cash docking station
and the
second cash handling entity is an ATM.
In some embodiments the first cash handling entity is a cash docking station
and the
second cash handling entity is a cash handling apparatus.
In some embodiments the first cash handling entity is a cash handling
apparatus and
the second cash handling entity is an ATM.
In some embodiments the first cash handling entity is a cash handling
apparatus and
the second cash handling entity is a cash handling apparatus.
In some embodiments the first cash handling entity is an ATM and the second
cash
handling entity is an ATM.
Communicating first information signals between the cash transport apparatus
and the
first cash handling entity may comprise communicating information pertaining
to
instructions from a financial institute to provide cash to an ATM.
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The instructions from a financial institute to provide cash to an ATM may
comprise
information including any of an ATM identity, a geographical location of an
ATM,
an amount of cash to provide to an ATM, a time limit.
Communicating first information signals between the cash transport apparatus
and the
first cash handling entity may comprise communicating information pertaining
to
instructions from a financial institute to retrieve cash from an ATM.
The instructions from a financial institute to retrieve cash from an ATM may
comprise instructions to retrieve any of unfit notes not valid for circulation
and
potentially counterfeit notes.
In some embodiments, a third signaling connection is established with a third
entity
and communicating third information signals between the cash transport
apparatus
and the third entity. The third entity may be a vehicle configured to carry
the cash
transport apparatus and the signaling connection with the vehicle may be
established
via a transport unit rack configured to convey signals between the cash
transport
apparatus and the vehicle. The third entity may also be a cash center as well
as a
transport service control center.
By utilizing a cash transport apparatus according to the invention in
connection with a
vehicle, enhanced security of the overall flow of cash in the cash handling
system is
obtained. Weak links along the cash flow path are avoided, which is in
contrast to
prior art solutions where, typically, exposure of notes to unauthorized
parties is more
or less possible, e.g. by the use of cash containers such as bags.
In case the third entity is a cash center, the signaling connection with the
cash center
may be established via a docking station configured to convey signals between
the
cash transport apparatus and the cash center.
The signaling connection with the third entity may furthermore be established
via a
vehicle configured to carry the cash transport apparatus and the signaling
connection
with the third entity may be established via a transport unit rack configured
to convey
signals between the cash transport apparatus and the vehicle.
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The third information signals may comprise status information regarding the
transport
apparatus and the status information may comprise information pertaining to an
amount of cash stored in the cash transport apparatus. The status information
may
also comprise information pertaining to a physical integrity of the transport
apparatus
and also comprise an alarm with respect to violation of the physical integrity
of the
transport apparatus and information pertaining to a status of an ink dye
protection
system in the transport apparatus and also comprise information pertaining to
a
geographic location of the transport apparatus.
In some embodiments, establishing any of the signaling connections may
comprise
signaling according to an authentication, authorization and accounting, AAA,
protocol and may also comprise signaling according to a wireless communication
protocol, such as a GSM/GPRS system, a WCDMA system and a CDMA2000
system.
In one aspect, some embodiments of the invention provide a computer program
comprising software instructions that, when executed in a control unit,
performs a method
of controlling operation of a cash transport apparatus as described above.
Further, a cash transport apparatus for use in a cash handling system
comprises cash
storage means, cash reception and dispensing means and control and
communication
means. The apparatus is configured to establish a first signaling connection
with a
first cash handling entity, communicate first information signals between the
cash
transport apparatus and the first cash handling entity, control flow of cash
between
the cash transport apparatus and the first cash handling entity, establish a
second
signaling connection with a second cash handling entity, communicate second
information signals between the cash transport apparatus and the second cash
handling entity, and control flow of cash between the cash transport apparatus
and the
second cash handling entity.
The cash transport apparatus may be configured to connect with any of an ATM,
a
cash docking station and a cash handling apparatus as well as with a third
entity in the
cash handling system. Such a third entity may be any of a vehicle and a
transport unit
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rack configured to convey signals between the cash transport apparatus and the
vehicle.
The cash transport apparatus may also be configured to detect and communicate
a
status regarding the transport apparatus. The status may be any of an amount
of cash
stored in the cash transport apparatus, information pertaining to a physical
integrity of
the transport apparatus and information pertaining to an ink dye protection
system in
the transport apparatus. Moreover, the cash transport apparatus may also
comprise a
geographical location detection system and be further configured to
communicate
information pertaining to a geographical location of the transport apparatus.
The cash transport apparatus may be configured to perform signaling according
to an
authentication, authorization and accounting, AAA, protocol and also to
perform
signaling according to a wireless communication protocol utilized in a
wireless
communication system such as any of a GSM/GPRS system, a WCDMA system and
a CDMA2000 system.
The cash transport apparatus may be configured with an enclosure comprising at
least
a secure compartment, where said secure compartment encloses at least the cash
storage means.
The cash transport apparatus may comprise note validation means configured in
connection with the control and communication means and the cash reception and
dispensing means to reject at least one predetermined type of notes. The type
of notes
to be rejected may comprise potentially counterfeit notes.
Numerous advantages are provided by such an inventive methods of controlling
operation of a cash transport apparatus and a cash transport apparatus. For
example,
an improved overview in terms of monitoring of the total flow of cash in a
cash
handling system is provided. Scheduling and planning of the control of cash
flow is
facilitated. Fast and effective feedback of any errors and discrepancies with
respect to
the cash flow is obtained. The invention also provides an enhanced possibility
to
forecast current and future need for cash in any entity of the system.
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In yet another aspect, some embodiments of the present invention provide a
method of controlling flow of cash between a cash transport apparatus and an
ATM in a
cash handling system. The cash transport apparatus is configured to store
cash, receive
and dispense cash and exchange information with at least the ATM. The method
comprises establishing a signaling connection between the cash transport
apparatus and
the ATM. controlling electromechanical means to establish a mechanical
engagement
between cash reception and dispensing means in the ATM and the cash transport
apparatus, controlling flow of cash between the cash transport apparatus and
the ATM,
communicating information signals between the cash transport apparatus and the
ATM,
and controlling electromechanical means to release the mechanical engagement
between
the cash transport apparatus and the ATM.
The establishing of the signaling connection may comprise communication of an
identifier of any of the cash transport apparatus and the ATM.
The information signals may comprise information pertaining to a cash flow
amount
and the control of flow of cash between the cash transport apparatus and the
ATM
may comprise flow control in dependence on said information pertaining to cash
flow
amount.
The control of flow of cash between the cash transport apparatus and ATM may
comprise controlling recycling of cash.
The communication of information signals and the control of flow of cash
between
the cash transport apparatus and the may, at least partly, be performed
simultaneously.
The communication of the information signals may comprise communication of
confirmation information subsequent to the control of flow of cash between the
cash
transport apparatus and the ATM.
The confirmation information may comprise information pertaining to a cash
flow
amount of the flow of cash between the cash transport apparatus and the ATM.
The control of flow of cash between the cash transport apparatus and ATM may
comprise controlling flow of cash out of the cash transport apparatus into the
ATM.
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The control of flow of cash between the cash transport apparatus and ATM may
comprise controlling flow of cash out of the ATM into the cash transport
apparatus.
The control of flow of cash out of the ATM may comprise control of flow of any
of
notes unfit for circulation, potentially counterfeit notes and surplus notes.
5 In one aspect, some embodiments of the invention provide a computer program
comprising software instructions that, when executed in a control unit,
performs a
method of controlling flow of cash between a cash transport apparatus and an
ATM as described above.
Furthermore, along the lines of this aspect, some embodiments of the present
10 invention provide an automated teller machine, ATM, configured to interact
with a
cash transport apparatus in a cash handling system. The ATM comprises cash
storage means, cash reception and dispensing means and control and
communication means. The control and communication means are configured to
establish a signalling connection with the cash transport apparatus, control
electromechanical means to establish a mechanical engagement between the
cash reception and dispensing means and the cash transport apparatus, control
flow of cash between the cash transport apparatus and the ATM, communicate
information signals between the ATM and the cash transport apparatus, and
control electromechanical means to release the mechanical engagement with the
cash transport apparatus.
The means configured to control flow of cash between the cash transport
apparatus and ATM may be configured to control recycling of cash, flow of cash
into the ATM as well as being be configured to control flow of cash out of the
ATM.
The control and communication means may configured to detect any of notes not
desirable for dispensing, potentially counterfeit notes, unfit notes, foreign
currency
notes, small denomination notes and large denomination notes. The cash storage
means may furthermore be configured with respective storage means for any of
these types of notes. Moreover, the control and communication means may be
configured to detect individual notes in the flow of cash into the ATM as
being any
of these types of notes.
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The control and communication means may be configured to control the storage
means to retain potentially counterfeit notes.
The ATM may further comprise an ink dye protection system.
An advantage of such an ATM is that it enables a high level of security in
that
unauthorized access to cash is prevented. This may be illustrated by noting
that
mechanical engagement and flow of cash is established between the cash
transport apparatus and the cash reception and dispensing means of the ATM.
Such a configuration prevents unnecessary exposure of notes during transfer
between the ATM and the transport unit. This is in contrast to prior art ATM
systems where transport of cash is performed by the use of transport units
that
are configured as removable modules that are accessed and removed by opening
an outer cover of the ATM.
An additional advantage is that, by re-filling an ATM with cash from a cash
transport apparatus, increased security is obtained in that the risk of
providing
notes that are unfit for circulation, e.g. potentially counterfeit, as well as
providing
a wrong number of notes, to the ATM is reduced.
In yet another aspect, some embodiments of the present invention provide a
docking station that is configured to convey cash between any cash transport
means.
Hence, some embodiments of the present invention provide a cash docking
station for use in a cash handling system. The cash docking station comprises
cash input means for receiving cash, cash output means for providing cash, and
signalling means for exchanging information with at least one cash transport
apparatus in the cash handling system and for controlling flow of cash between
said cash input means and said cash output means.
The signalling means may be mechanical as well as electric, optical and may be
wireless as well as wire based. Any of the cash input means and cash output
means may be configured to interact with a cash transport apparatus.
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In other words, such a simple cash docking station allows input of cash from
any
suitable type of cash providing apparatus, including simple manual feeding of
cash
by hand as well as any cash transport unit such as a stacker box, a cash bag
etc.
Output of cash may be to a transport box, such as any transport box described
above.
In yet another aspect, some embodiments of the present invention provide a
docking station that is configured to convey cash between any cash transport
means.
Hence, some embodiments of the present invention provide a cash docking
station for use in a cash handling system. The cash docking station comprises
cash input means for receiving cash, cash output means for providing cash,
cash
storage means, signalling means for exchanging information with at least one
cash transport apparatus in the cash handling system and for controlling flow
of
cash between said cash input means and said cash output means, and control
means for controlling operation of said signaling means, said storage means,
said
cash input means and said cash output means.
The cash docking station may be arranged between a first environment and a
second environment, said first and second environments being configured such
that they represent a respective first and second level of security and
wherein the
cash input means are configured for access from the first environment and the
cash output means are configured for access from the second environment. For
example, the cash docking station may be arranged in a wall at a cash center
or in
a wall in a vehicle.
The cash docking station may also be configured such that the cash storage
means are configured to perform any operation of note validation, note fitness
sorting, denomination sorting, foreign denomination sorting, detection of
facing
and orientation.
Furthermore, along the lines of this aspect, some embodiments of the invention
provide a method of controlling operation of a cash docking station in a cash
handling system, the cash docking station being configured to store cash,
receive
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and dispense cash and exchange information with a cash transport apparatus in
the cash handling system. The method comprises the steps of establishing a
signalling connection with a cash transport apparatus, controlling exchange of
cash between the cash docking station and the cash transport apparatus, and
communicating information signals between the cash docking station and the
cash
transport apparatus.
A cash docking station provides a number of advantages over prior art
solutions.
For example, a cash docking station may provide a more or less automated
handling of cash early in the flow in a cash handling system, before reaching
a
cash center, for example already at a shop location or in a vehicle. This
allows for
an enhanced flexibility when controlling the flow of cash, as well as
facilitating
forecasting of various needs in the cash handling system, such as the need for
specific amounts of cash at different entities in the system. In other words,
the
use of a docking station according to the invention enables quick re-direction
of
cash without a need to use a central location, such as a cash center, early in
the
flow of cash in the system. Large accumulations of cash may then be avoided to
a larger extent than in prior art systems.
In one aspect, some embodiments of the invention provide a computer program
comprising software instructions that, when executed in a control unit,
performs a
method of controlling operation of a cash docking station as described above.
In another aspect, some embodiments of the present invention provide a cash
handling apparatus that is configured to operate in conjunction with a cash
transport apparatus.
Hence, some embodiments of the present invention provide a cash handling
apparatus configured to interact with a cash transport apparatus in a cash
handling system. The cash handling apparatus comprises cash storage means,
cash reception and dispensing means and control and communication means.
The control and communication means are configured to establish a signalling
connection with the cash transport apparatus, control electromechanical means
to
establish a mechanical engagement between the cash reception and dispensing
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means and the cash transport apparatus, control flow of cash between the cash
transport apparatus and the cash handling apparatus, communicate information
signals between the cash handling apparatus and the cash transport apparatus,
and control electromechanical means to release the mechanical engagement with
the cash transport apparatus.
The means configured to control flow of cash between the cash transport
apparatus and cash handling apparatus may be configured to control recycling
of
cash, flow of cash into the cash handling apparatus as well as being be
configured
to control flow of cash out of the cash handling apparatus.
The control and communication means may configured to detect any of notes not
desirable for dispensing, potentially counterfeit notes, unfit notes, foreign
currency
notes, small denomination notes and large denomination notes. The cash storage
means may furthermore be configured with respective storage means for any of
these types of notes. Moreover, the control and communication means may be
configured to detect individual notes in the flow of cash into the cash
handling
apparatus as being any of these types of notes.
From the above description of different aspects of the invention it will be
evident
that one general advantage is that of enhanced security due to the essentially
closed flow of cash between different entities and a transport apparatus. Cash
is
typically not accessible to any unauthorized party all along the flow of cash.
From the above it can be concluded that, in a general aspect, some embodiments
of the present invention simply provide a cash handling system comprising any
number of cash handling entities discussed above.
In another aspect, some embodiments of the present invention make use of a
cash transport apparatus for providing a cash transport service to any entity
in a
cash handling system. Such a transport service may comprise providing cash to
an ATM and/or receiving cash from an ATM. Moreover, such a transport service
may comprise providing cash to a cash handling apparatus in a shop and/or
receiving cash from a cash handling apparatus in a shop.
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Use of a cash transport apparatus may also entail, in a case where the
transport
apparatus is configured as a cash deposit apparatus, providing a cash deposit
service to any entity, such as a shop, in a cash handling system.
In other words, a cash transport apparatus according to the present invention
5 provides a great deal of versatility in terms of use. For example, a cash
transport
apparatus may be used in an operation to re-fill a cash handling apparatus
with
change in a shop. The cash transport apparatus may be filled with an
appropriate
amount of notes, e.g. at a cash center or in a cash transport vehicle by a
cash
transport service provider, and moved to a shop location where such re-filling
10 takes place. Another scenario is one in which a shop keeper has made an
agreement with an ATM service provider to interact with an ATM located at the
shop, such that cash from a cash handling apparatus is provided to the ATM via
a
cash transport apparatus or, in the opposite direction of cash flow, from a
cash
handling apparatus to an ATM. An advantage of such a scenario is that it
enables
15 saving of so-called float costs, i.e. savings due to the shortening of the
time period
during which cash is not in circulation.
A variation of such a scenario is one in which a shop keeper uses a cash
transport
apparatus as an "over night safe storage" apparatus containing cash from one
or
more cash handling apparatuses, e.g. in a back-office location. Such a use is
advantageous in that it reduces the need for complex and expensive security
measures in connection with a cash handling apparatus. By using a transport
apparatus, which is inherently more secure than a cash handling apparatus in a
shop, secure storage of cash is possible.
In yet another aspect, some embodiments of the present invention make use of a
cash docking station for providing a cash docking service in a cash handling
system. Such a use may be in a vehicle as well as at a cash center.
In yet another aspect, some embodiments of the present invention make use of
an
ATM for providing an ATM service in a cash handling system. The use of the
ATM may be at a shop, for example.
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In yet another aspect, some embodiments of the present invention make use of a
cash handling apparatus for providing a cash handling service in a cash
handling
system. The use of the cash handling apparatus may be at a check-out point in
a
shop as well as at a back-office location in a shop.
According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a docking
station
for use in a note handling system, the docking station comprising: a note
input unit for
receiving notes from a first note transport unit; a note output unit for
providing notes
to a second note transport unit, a signal communicator for exchanging
information
with at least one of said first note transport unit and said second note
transport unit;
and a controller for controlling operation of said signal communicator, said
note input
unit, and said note output unit, wherein said note input unit is configured
for access
from a first environment representing a first level of security and wherein
said note
output unit is configured for access from a second environment representing a
second level of security higher than said first level of security.
Brief description of the drawings
Below will follow a detailed description of arrangements and methods according
to
the different aspects of the invention. Reference will be made to the attached
drawings on which:
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figure 1 schematically illustrates a cash handling system and communication
paths in
such a system,
figure 2 schematically illustrates, in the form of a block diagram, a cash
handling
apparatus located in a shop,
figure 3 schematically illustrates, in the form of a block diagram, a docking
station
and a cash handling apparatus located in a shop,
figure 4 schematically illustrates, in the form of a block diagram, an
automatic teller
machine,
figure 5 schematically illustrates, in the form of a block diagram, a cash
handling
arrangement located in a vehicle,
figure 6 schematically illustrates, in the form of a block diagram, a cash
transport
apparatus,
figure 7 schematically illustrates, in the form of a block diagram, another
cash
transport apparatus,
figure 8 schematically illustrates, in the form of a block diagram, a cash
transport
apparatus having a secure and a non-secure section,
figure 9 schematically illustrates, in the form of a block diagram, a cash
handling
arrangement located in a cash center,
figure 10 schematically illustrates, in the form of a block diagram, cash
handling
arrangements in a financial institute such as a bank,
figure 11 schematically illustrates, in the form of a block diagram, a cash
docking
station,
figure 12 schematically illustrates, in the form of a block diagram, a cash
docking
station arranged in a wall between a secure and a non-secure area,
figures 13a and 13b schematically illustrate, in the form of a signaling
diagram and a
flow chart, respectively, flow of cash and signals in a cash handling system,
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figures 14a and 14b schematically illustrate, in the form of a signaling
diagram and a
flow chart, respectively, flow of cash and signals in a cash handling system,
figures 15a and 15b schematically illustrate, in the form of a signaling
diagram and a
flow chart, respectively, flow of cash and signals in a cash handling system.
Preferred embodiments
Turning now to figure 1, a cash handling system 100 in which the present
invention is
realized will now be described in general terms. More detailed descriptions of
the
different entities in the system 100 and their interaction will be made below,
although
it should be noted that throughout this description the level of detail will
typically be
kept at that of functional descriptions of interacting blocks. It is hence
assumed that a
person skilled in the art will, by consulting this description and using
appropriate
engineering skills, be able to implement the functional blocks in the form of
properly
configured hardware and software arrangements. For example, implementations of
the inventive methods are typically in the form of computer programs
comprising
software instructions and provided via carrier media such as various types of
storage
disks as well as via propagated signals via wired an wireless communication
networks.
In figure 1, solid line arrows, as exemplified by an arrow having reference
numeral
150, represent exchange of cash between entities in the system 100. Dashed
line
arrows, as exemplified by an arrow having reference numeral 152, represent
exchange of information signals between entities in the system 100. The arrows
have
dual arrow heads, pointing in opposing directions, in order to illustrate that
the flow
of cash as well as the flow of information signals is in any direction between
the
entities of the system 100. The flow of information between the different
entities
may, as the skilled person will realize, be implemented using any appropriate
data
communication protocol and protection and security may be provided by the use
of
any authentication, authorization and accounting protocol (AAA-protocol) known
in
the art. The physical flow of information may entail galvanic connection
between
communicating entities as well as utilization of wireless connections, as will
be
exemplified and discussed in more detail below.
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18
The system 100 comprises a plurality of automatic teller machines (ATM) of
which a
first ATM 102 and a second ATM 104 are illustrated. The ATMs 102, 104 are
configured to automatically provide and receive cash during interactions with
a
human customer (not shown).
Further, the system 100 comprises a first retail shop 106 and a second retail
shop 108.
As the skilled person will realize, the shops 106, 108 may represent any form
of shop-
like cash handling entity where human interaction takes place between a
customer
and a teller (not shown) who operates a cash handling apparatus (e.g. a cash
handling
apparatuses 202, 302 as described below in connection with figures 2 and 3)
located
in the shop 106, 108. As the skilled person will realize, the teller typically
performs
transactions in which cash is provided into and withdrawn from the cash
handling
apparatus. Alternatively, a customer may perform cash transactions in a self-
service
manner without assistance from a teller.
A number of cash transport units 110, 112 and 114 form parts of the system
100. The
transport units are configured, as will be described in more detail below, to
store cash
in a secure manner and configured to receive cash input and dispense cash
during
interactions with other entities in the system 100. As indicated by solid line
arrows,
cash is moved between transport unit 110 and ATM 102, between transport unit
112
and ATMs 102, 104 and shop 106 and between transport unit 114 and shops 106
and
108. Similarly, as indicated by dashed line arrows, information signals are
transmitted
between transport unit 110 and ATM 102, between transport unit 112 and ATMs
102,
104 and shop 106 and between transport unit 114 and shops 106 and 108. An
important property of the transport units is that they each form an individual
part of
the system 100 and, when properly configured, any transport unit may interact
with
any other entity in the system. Typically, the transport units 110, 112, 114
are
portable boxes having appropriate physical dimensions and weights and
mechanical
means for enabling simple movement, e.g. handles, such that one person will be
capable of moving a transport unit.
Bulk transport of cash in the system 100 is provided by means of vehicles 116
and
118. As indicated by solid line arrows, cash is moved between transport unit
112 and
vehicle 116 and cash is moved between transport unit 114 and vehicle 118. It
is to be
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19
noted that the transport of cash, as indicated by the solid lines discussed
above, may
entail transporting a cash transport unit within a vehicle 116, 118, as
illustrated by a
cash transport unit 115 located within vehicle 118. However, the transport may
involve any other type of cash container known in the art, e.g. cash bags and
cash
boxes, into which cash has been provided from the transport units. For
example, as
will be discussed further below, a transport unit may dock with a docking
station 117
that provides cash into bags.
Signaling, i.e. transmission of information signals, is also performed between
the
vehicle 116 and the transport unit 112. However, as exemplified by vehicle 118
and
transport unit 114, signaling may be omitted although cash is moved.
A transport service control center 128 is shown being configured for exchange
of
information signals with the vehicles 116, 118, cash centers 120, 122 and a
bank 124.
Signaling between the transport service control center 128 and individual
transport
units is also possible, as indicated by the signaling connection with
transport unit 110.
The transport service control center 128 is typically an entity representing a
provider
of transport services, including vehicles and vehicle staff, to other entities
in the
system such as shops, banks, ATM operators etc. No cash is being conveyed via
the
transport service control center 128. The information signals that are
exchanged with
other entities of the system include such information as instructions
regarding
collection of cash from a shop or an ATM, status information such as
geographical
location and any security status information and supervisory information
needed in
order to provide a secure transport service.
The system further comprises a number of cash centers 120 and 122. The cash
centers
120, 122 perform the function of being depositories for cash and receive and
provide
cash to vehicles 116 and 118, respectively. Moreover, as illustrated by the
solid arrow
150 between cash center 120 and transport unit 110, cash may be provided
directly
from a transport unit, i.e. transport unit 110, to a cash center and vice
versa without
the utilization of a vehicle. Cash centers may be located at specific cash
center
locations, typically in the form of a specifically configured, relatively
large, building
complex located remote from other buildings and into which vehicles carrying
cash
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are moved. However, a physically relatively small cash center may also be
located in
close vicinity to one or more shops, such as in a shopping mall.
A first cash docking station 117 is illustrated within the cash center 120.
Operation of
the cash docking station 117 typically involves at least one transport unit
out of
5 which, or into which, cash is provided. For example, a docking station is
configured
to mate with a cash transport unit and to cooperate such that cash is conveyed
from
the transport unit into the docking station, where the cash may be processed,
and out
of the docking station. The output of cash from the docking station may be as
simple
as feeding cash onto a table surface but also more elaborate such as feeding
cash into
10 a cash container. Such a cash container, although not illustrated in figure
1, may be a
cash bag, another cash transport unit, a typical ATM cash cassette or any
other
suitable container configured to mate with the docking station.
Although the docking station 117 in figure 1 is illustrated to be located
within the
cash center 120, other locations for docking stations are also possible. For
example,
15 as will be discussed in further detail below, a docking station may be
located within,
or in the vicinity of, a shop and also in a vehicle or a bank etc. as
illustrated by a
second docking station 119.
Two financial institutes in the form of banks 122 and 124 are also comprised
in the
system 100. As indicated by the solid line arrow between bank 124 and cash
center
20 120, cash may be transported to and from the bank. However, as exemplified
by bank
126, it is not necessary that the bank 126 receives or provides cash within
the
framework of the system 100 as discussed here. As illustrated by dashed
arrows,
information signals are transmitted between the banks 124, 126, the cash
centers 120,
122 as well as between the banks 124, 126 and the ATMs 102, 104 and the shops
106,
108.
As the skilled person will realize, the transport of cash between the
different entities
in the system 100 typically pertain to issues regarding ownership and changes
of
ownership of the cash that is transported in the system 100. These ownership
issues
are not illustrated in figure 1, but will be discussed below in connection
with figures
13 to 15.
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21
Turning now to figures 2 to 12, different entities in a system 100 as
described above
with reference to figure 1 will be described in more detail. Figures 2 and 3
illustrate a
respective shop 200, 300 in which cash handling apparatuses are located, for
example
corresponding to shop 106 and shop 108, respectively, in figure 1. Figure 4
illustrates
an ATM 400, e.g. any of the ATMs 102 and 104 in figure 1. Figure 5 illustrates
a
vehicle 500, e.g. any of the vehicles 116 and 118 in figure 1. Figures 6, 7
and 8
illustrate a respective cash transport unit 600, 700 and 800, e.g.
corresponding to any
of the transport units 110, 112 and 114 in figure 1. Figure 9 illustrates a
cash center
900, e.g. any of the cash centers 120 and 122 in figure 1. Figure 10
illustrates a bank
1000, e.g. any of the banks 124 and 126 in figure 1. Figures 11 and 12
illustrate cash
docking stations, e.g. the docking station 117 in figure 1.
It is to be noted that the descriptions of the arrangements in figures 2 to 12
are
focused on the main functional units comprised in each respective arrangement
and
very little discussion will be spent on the mechanical and electrical
realizations of the
arrangements. For example, although necessary for the operation of each
arrangement, power supply circuitry are assumed to be present and
appropriately
configured as is already known in the art.
Hence, the shop 200 illustrated in figure 2 comprises a cash handling
apparatus 202
that is configured to be operated by a human teller during cash transactions
involving
a customer and/or operated by a customer during self service transactions
without
assistance from a teller. Typically, the cash handling apparatus 202 is
located at a
check-out location in the shop 200 and is operated when a customer is paying
for
merchandise or services provided by the shop 200.
The cash apparatus 202 comprises a cash input/output unit 210 that is
configured to
receive input and provide output of cash in the form of bank notes from the
teller. The
cash input/output unit 210 is also configured such that it is capable of being
mechanically connected with a cash transport unit, e.g. any of the transport
units 600,
700, 800 to be described below, and thereby configured to convey cash to and
from
the transport unit. The cash input/output unit 210 is also configured such
that it stores
cash, for example in such a way that it is capable of operating in a cash
recycling
manner.
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22
Moreover, although not shown in detail, the cash input/output unit 210 may
also be
configured with detecting means capable of sensing a number of characteristics
regarding notes fed into the input/output unit 210. For example, input/output
unit 210
is capable of sensing, under control of a control and communication unit 208,
notes
not desirable for dispensing, potentially counterfeit notes, unfit notes,
foreign
currency notes, small denomination notes and large denomination notes. The
storage
functionality of the input/output unit 210 may be configured such that it is
capable of
storing, e.g. in separated compartments, any of these types of notes sensed by
the
input/output unit 210.
The control and communication unit 208 is connected to, and configured to
control,
the cash input/output unit 210 as well as a signaling interface unit 212.
Mechanical
engagement and disengagement between the input/output unit 210 and a transport
unit (to be described in further detail below) may hence be controlled, via
electromechanical means (not shown) in the input/output 210, by the control
and
communication unit 208 that, preferably, cooperates with corresponding control
means in a transport unit.
Needless to say, the control and communication unit 208 may comprise any
suitable
programmable circuitry and memory means, as the skilled person will realize
when
implementing the cash handling apparatus 202. The control and communication
unit
208 is hence provided with one or more computer programs comprising software
instructions that, when executed, provide signals to the various functional
units within
the cash handling apparatus 202 as well as communication signals with other
entities
in a cash handling system.
The signaling interface unit 212 is configured to be connected with a
corresponding
signaling interface unit in a cash transport unit, e. g. any of the transport
units 600,
700, 800 to be described below, and thereby configured to convey signaling
information and data to and from the transport unit. As will be discussed in
more
detail below, signaling between a cash handling apparatus and a transport unit
will
entail exchanging information relating to cash transactions such as time
stamps,
amounts of cash input or cash output etc. as well as information relating to
cash
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23
transport procedures during interaction with a cash transport unit such as
time stamps,
identification and authorization information etc. as well as cash amounts.
The cash handling apparatus 202 is connected, via the control and
communication
unit 208, to a shop communication and control system 204, including such shop
communication and control systems that provide self check-out services.
Typically, a
number of cash handling apparatuses similar to the cash handling apparatus 202
will
be connected to the shop communication and control system 204. Connection with
other shops, cash centers, banks etc. is provided via a network 206. As the
skilled
person will realize, the network 206 may be any of a local area network (LAN),
a
wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet or any other suitably configured
network including both wired and wireless networks. As will be discussed in
more
detail below, communication over the network 206 will entail transmission of
signaling information and data between the cash handling apparatus 202 and
cash
centers and banks, relating to cash transactions as well as cash transport
operations.
The shop 300 in figure 3 is similar to the shop 200 described above and hence
a cash
handling apparatus 302 that is configured to be operated by a human teller
and/or
operated by a customer during self service transactions. The cash handling
apparatus
302 comprises similar elements as the apparatus 202 described in detail above
with
reference to figure 2 and, hence, it is connected, via a control and
communication unit
(not shown in figure 3), to a shop communication and control system 304,
including
such shop communication and control systems that provide self check-out
services.
Typically, a number of cash handling apparatuses similar to the cash handling
apparatus 302 will be connected to the shop communication and control system
304.
Connection with other shops, cash centers, banks etc. is provided via a
network 306
in a similar fashion as described in connection with figure 2.
A cash docking station 352 is also connected to the shop communication and
control
system 304 and, as indicated by a dashed line 340, the docking station 352 is
located
"back office", typically forming a relatively secure section 340 of the shop
300. The
secure section 340 of the shop 300 typically comprises a vault or similarly
configured
arrangement (not shown in figure 3) for containing cash provided from the
docking
station 352.
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24
The cash docking station 352 is configured to interact with a cash transport
apparatus
at least in such a manner that it receives cash from a transport unit, e.g.
any of the
transport units 600, 700, 800 to be described below, and provides output of
cash into
any type of cash container, such as bags and boxes. However, output of cash
may also
be provided in the most simple manner by simply dumping cash through a chute
or
similar mechanical arrangement.
Hence, similar to the cash handling apparatus 202 described above in
connection with
figure 2, the cash docking station 352 comprises a cash input/output unit 360
that is
configured to receive input of cash from a transport unit and provide output
of cash
into, e.g. bags and boxes. The cash input/output unit 360 is also configured
such that
it is capable of storing cash that has been input, until a later time when
output is
desired, for example at a time immediately prior to removing the cash from the
shop
300 into a cash transport vehicle.
Further, a control and communication unit 358 is connected to, and configured
to
control, the cash input/output unit 360 as well as a signaling interface unit
362.
Mechanical engagement and disengagement between the input/output unit 360 and
a
transport unit may hence be controlled, via electromechanical means (not
shown) in
the input/output 360, by the control and communication unit 358 that,
preferably,
cooperates with corresponding control means in a transport unit.
The control and communication unit 358 may comprise any suitable programmable
circuitry and memory means, as the skilled person will realize when
implementing
the cash docking station 352. The control and communication unit 358 is hence
provided with one or more computer programs comprising software instructions
that,
when executed, provide signals to the various functional units within the
docking
station 352 as well as communication signals with other entities in a cash
handling
system.
The signaling interface unit 362 is configured to be connected with a
corresponding
signaling interface unit in a cash transport unit, e.g. any of the transport
units 600,
700, 800 to be described below, and thereby configured to convey signaling
information and data to and from the transport unit. As will be discussed in
more
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detail below, signaling between a cash docking station and a transport unit
will entail
exchanging information relating to cash transactions such as time stamps,
amounts of
cash input or cash output etc. as well as information relating to cash
transport
procedures during interaction with a cash transport unit such as time stamps,
5 identification and authorization information etc. as well as cash amounts.
The ATM 400 illustrated in figure 4 is configured to be operated by a customer
during cash transactions. The ATM 400 comprises a cash input/output unit 410
that is
configured to dispense cash in the form of bank notes to a customer. The ATM
is also
configured to receive input of cash from a customer when performing a deposit
10 transaction, for example to credit a bank account. The cash input/output
unit 410 is
also configured such that it is capable of being mechanically connected with a
cash
transport unit, e.g. any of the transport units 600, 700, 800 to be described
below, and
thereby configured to convey cash to and from the transport unit. Mechanical
engagement and disengagement between the input/output unit 410 and a transport
15 unit is controlled, via electromechanical means (not shown) in the
input/output 410,
by a control and communication unit 408 that, preferably, cooperates with
corresponding control means in the transport unit. Moreover, although not
shown in
detail, the cash input/output unit 410 is also configured with detecting means
capable
of sensing a number of characteristics regarding individual notes fed into the
20 input/output unit 410. For example, input/output unit 410 is capable of
sensing, under
control of the control and communication unit 408, notes not desirable for
dispensing,
potentially counterfeit notes, unfit notes, foreign currency notes, small
denomination
notes and large denomination notes.
Connected to the cash input/output unit 410 and also operated under the
control of the
25 control and communication unit 408 is a note storage unit 414. The storage
unit 414 is
configured to store notes in separate storage areas typically in the form of
cassettes,
here exemplified by reference numerals 415 and 417, such that each storage
area may
be designated to store one type of notes as sensed by the input/output unit
410. The
control and communication unit 408 may also be configured to control the
storage
unit 414 to retain any type of notes that are not suitable for circulation,
such as
potentially counterfeit notes.
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26
An optional storage access arrangement 416 is configured, by means of any
known
mechanical or electromechanical barrier mechanism such as a lock, to allow
access to
the storage areas in the storage unit 414 without the use of a cash transport
unit as
discussed above.
The input/output unit 410 and the storage unit 414 are further configured such
that
they are capable of being controlled by the control and communication unit 408
to
operate in a cash recycling manner. That is, notes that have been input to the
storage
unit 414 during a first user transaction involving a deposit may be re-used in
a later
transaction involving any other user to whom notes are dispensed from the
storage
unit 414.
The control and communication unit 408 is further connected to, and configured
to
control, a signaling interface unit 412 and a user interface unit 409 that
comprises a
display, a keypad and a card reader, the hardware of which will not be
discussed in
detail as this would clutter the description with details already known in the
art.
Furthermore, the control and communication unit 408 is also connected to, and
configured to control, an ink dye protection system 420 and a camera 418. The
ink
dye protection system 420 is located adjacent to the storage unit 414 and it
includes
sensing units for sensing unauthorized access attempts to the storage unit 414
and ink
ejection means for ejecting ink onto notes in the storage unit 414. As the
skilled
person will realize, the ink dye protection system 420 may be replaced by any
destructive protection system known in the art.
The camera 418 is controlled to record images of any customer that operates
the
ATM 400. Depending on configuration, the camera control may involve
transmission
of such images via a network 406 to a supervisor of the ATM 400 for the
purpose of
providing the possibility of an independent identification of a customer
trying, e.g., to
operate the ATM in an unauthorized manner.
The control and communication unit 408 may comprise any suitable programmable
circuitry and memory means, as the skilled person will realize when
implementing
the ATM 400. The control and communication unit 408 is hence provided with one
or
more computer programs comprising software instructions that, when executed,
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27
provide signals to the various functional units within the ATM 400 as well as
communication signals with other entities in a cash handling system.
The signaling interface unit 412 is configured to be connected with a
corresponding
signaling interface unit in a cash transport unit, e.g. any of the transport
units 600,
700, 800 to be described below, and thereby configured to convey signaling
information and data to and from the transport unit. As will be discussed in
more
detail below, signaling between an ATM and a transport unit will entail
exchanging
information relating to cash transactions such as time stamps, amounts of cash
input
or cash output etc. as well as information relating to cash transport
procedures during
interaction with a cash transport unit such as time stamps, identification and
authorization information etc. as well as cash amounts.
As briefly mentioned already, the ATM 400 is connected, via the control and
communication unit 408, to a network 406. As the skilled person will realize,
the
network 206 may be any suitably configured ATM network including both wired
and
wireless networks. As will be discussed in more detail below, communication
over
the network 406 will entail transmission of signaling information and data
between
the ATM 400 and cash centers and banks, relating to cash transactions as well
as cash
transport operations.
The vehicle 500 illustrated in figure 5 comprises a transport unit rack 530
that is
configured to hold cash transport units 531, e.g. any of the transport units
600, 700,
800 to be described below. The rack 530 is configured in such a manner that
mechanical connection between the rack 530 and the transport units 531 is
secured
and that electric signaling is made possible between the transport units 531
and other
entities in a cash handling system such as the system 100 of figure 1. The
signaling is
realized via a control and communication unit 508, a radio frequency
transceiver unit
532, an antenna 533, a radio interface 507 and a network 506. Needless to say,
the
network 506 includes functionality similar to the networks described elsewhere
in the
present specification, as well as necessary radio interface networking
functions, as the
skilled person will realize.
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28
As will be discussed in more detail below, signaling between the vehicle 500,
or
rather the rack 530 of transport units within the vehicle 500, and other
entities will
entail exchanging information such as time stamps, amounts of cash as well as
information relating to the actual cash transport procedures such as
geographical
information, security status of the transport units etc.
The control and communication unit 508 may comprise any suitable programmable
circuitry and memory means, as the skilled person will realize when
implementing
the vehicle 500. The control and communication unit 508 is hence provided with
one
or more computer programs comprising software instructions that, when
executed,
provide signals to the various functional units within the vehicle 500 as well
as
communication signals with other entities in a cash handling system.
Although transport units 531 are conveyed by the vehicle 500, it is not
necessary that
any information contained in a transport unit is accessible to the vehicle,
i.e. the
transport unit rack in the vehicle, or to any vehicle staff. Such a
configuration may be
obtained by appropriate mechanical and/or electric configuration of the rack
530
and/or the transport units 531 themselves.
The cash transport unit 600 illustrated in figure 6 comprises a cash
input/output unit
610 that is configured such that it is capable of being mechanically connected
with a
cash handling apparatus and a docking station, e.g. any of the arrangements
202, 302
and 352 described above, and thereby configured to convey cash to and from the
transport unit 600. The cash input/output unit 610 is configured such that it
conveys
cash to a cash storage unit 611 connected to the cash input/output unit 610.
The cash
storage unit 611 is arranged within the transport unit 600 such that it is
secure from
tampering and thereby stops unauthorized access to stored cash. This
separation of
the transport unit 600 into two sections, a secure section containing the
storage unit
611 and a non-secure section containing the other units, will be discussed
further
below in connection with another embodiment of a transport unit.
A control and communication unit 608 is connected to, and configured to
control, the
cash input/output unit 610 during mechanical engaging and disengaging with
other
entities and during conveying of cash. The control and communication unit 608
is
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29
also connected to, and configured to control, a signaling interface unit 612.
The
control and communication unit 608 may comprise any suitable programmable
circuitry and memory means, as the skilled person will realize when
implementing
the transport unit 600. The control and communication unit 608 is hence
provided
with one or more computer programs comprising software instructions that, when
executed, provide signals to the various functional units within the transport
unit 600
as well as communication signals with other entities in a cash handling
system.
The signaling interface unit 612 is configured to be connected with a
corresponding
signaling interface unit in a cash handling apparatus, e.g. any of cash
handling
apparatuses 202, 302 and docking station 352 described above, and thereby
configured to convey signaling information and data to and from these
apparatuses.
As will be discussed in more detail below, signaling will entail exchanging
information relating to cash transactions such as time stamps, amounts of cash
input
or cash output etc. as well as information relating to cash transport
procedures during
interaction with a cash handling apparatus and docking station such as time
stamps,
identification and authorization information etc. as well as cash amounts.
The transport unit 700 in figure 7 is similar to the transport unit 600
described above
and hence comprises a cash input/output unit 710 comprising cash storage
means, a
control and communication unit 708 and a signaling interface unit 712. Control
of the
different units in the transport unit 700 is hence performed in a similar
manner as
already described. For example, the control and communication unit 708 is
provided
with one or more computer programs comprising software instructions that, when
executed, provide signals to the various functional units within the transport
unit 700
as well as communication signals with other entities in a cash handling
system.
In addition to these components, the transport unit 700 also comprises a radio
frequency transceiver unit 732, an antenna 733, a radio interface 707 for
communication with other entities, such as cash centers, vehicles, transport
service
control centers etc. as will be exemplified below, via a network 706. Needless
to say,
the network 706 includes functionality similar to the networks described
elsewhere in
the present specification, as well as necessary radio interface networking
functions, as
the skilled person will realize.
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Signaling between the transport unit 700 and other entities will entail
exchanging
information such as time stamps, amounts of cash as well as information
relating to
the actual cash transport procedures such as geographical information,
security status
of the transport unit etc. For example, by incorporating a Global Positioning
System,
5 GPS, receiver (not shown in figure 7) in the transport unit 700 and
connected to the
control and communication unit 708 and the signaling interface unit 712,
information
regarding the exact geographical position of the transport unit 700 may be
communicated to other entities with which the transport unit 700 communicates.
Simpler geographical tracking may be obtained by configuring a Radio Frequency
10 Identification (RFID) tag into the transport unit 700 and incorporating the
transport
unit 700 in a RFID system.
The transport unit 800 in figure 8 is similar to the transport units 600, 700
described
above and hence comprises a cash input/output unit 810, cash storage means
811, a
control and communication unit 808 and a signaling interface unit 812. Control
of the
15 different units in the transport unit 800 is hence performed in a similar
manner as
already described. For example, the control and communication unit 808 is
provided
with one or more computer programs comprising software instructions that, when
executed, provide signals to the various functional units within the transport
unit 800
as well as communication signals with other entities in a cash handling
system.
20 The transport unit 800 is divided into a secure part 801 and a non-secure
part 803 as
indicated by a dashed line 840. The secure part 801 is configured such that
unauthorized access to the storage means 811 is prevented. Furthermore, the
transport
unit 800 also comprises a user interface unit 813 in the form of a display and
keypad,
for example in the form of a touch sensitive display unit where information
regarding
25 the transport unit 800 is displayed and via which an operator, i.e. a
person carrying
the transport unit 800, may enter information for processing in the control
and
communication unit 808. Displayed information may include a destination
address
and other status and operational information.
Ink dye protection is provided by means of a first ink dye system 807
configured
30 within the secure part 801 of the transport unit 800 and a second ink dye
system 809
configured within the non-secure part 801 of the transport unit 800. Both ink
dye
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systems 807 and 809 are connected to the control and communication unit 808
and
comprise sensing means for sensing unauthorized access to any of the secure
and
non-secure parts of the transport unit 800, for communicating signals to the
control
and communication unit 808 and for activating ink dyeing of cash.
Alternatively, any
of the ink dye systems 807, 809 may operate independently without connection
to the
control and communication unit 808.
Any of the transport units 600, 700, 800 described above may be configured
such that
it operates as a cash deposit apparatus, e.g. located at a teller in a shop.
Such a
configuration may simply entail mechanical mounting arrangements that allow
easy
access for a teller when feeding notes into the transport unit, while at the
same time
allowing for removal when ready to be moved by, e.g., a cash transport
service.
Preferably, a transport unit configured as a deposit apparatus is configured
with user
interface means that facilitate the use of the transport apparatus when notes
are
deposited (typically performed manually by a teller). Moreover, such a
transport
apparatus configuration may comprise note validation means, i.e. means in the
input/output unit capable of validate whether or not a note is acceptable or
potentially
counterfeit. Such a cash deposit apparatus may or may not be connected to a
shop
control and communication system. Although a transport unit configured as a
deposit
apparatus is mainly intended for deposit operations, it may also be configured
to
provide output of notes.
Moreover, any of the transport units 600, 700, 800 described above may be
configured with access control configured such that it is necessary for an
operator, i.e.
a person who is to operate it to connect to an entity in the cash handling
system, to
authorize by using access control means to activate circuitry in the transport
unit.
Such access control means may be of any suitable type, including biometric
sensing,
means and more simple password/PIN access control means.
Furthermore, although the transport units 600, 700, 800 described above are
typically
configured to operate in connection with other types of entities in a cash
handling
system, it is also feasible that two transport units interact directly with
each other
(including transport units of any other type than those described herein),
exchanging
information as well as cash, with or without any interfacing means.
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A cash transport unit, such as those described above, and each cash handling
entity of
the system are preferably provided with complementary mechanical formations
that
co-operate with one another to retain the cash transport unit and a cash
handling
entity in pre-determined relative positions during flow of cash there between.
The mechanical formations preferably comprise a releasable locking mechanism
acting between the cash transport unit and a cash handling entity for
retaining the
cash transport unit fast with the cash handling entity until a decision has
been made to
release the transport unit from the cash handling entity.
The reasons for locking together the transport unit and the cash handling
entity may
be:
a) security against interference with the transport unit or theft thereof, and
b) safety, to prevent the transport unit tilting or falling with the danger of
injury to an
operative or member of the public.
The releasable locking mechanism is preferably electro-mechanically actuated.
When the cash handling entity is an ATM, and the cash transport unit is to be
hand-
carried, the complementary mechanical formations are preferably configured to
support the weight of the cash transport unit when the unit is connected to
the ATM.
Preferably the complementary mechanical formations then comprise at least one
upwardly directed lug on the face of the ATM and at least one downwardly
directed
hook on the opposing face of the transport unit so arranged as to permit the
transport
unit to be offered to the ATM and hooked onto the ATM, to assist in supporting
the
weight of the transport unit.
Preferably the upwardly directed lug is constituted by an upwardly directed
flange
that extends adjacent to the upper margin of the ATM front face, and the hook
is
constituted by a downwardly directed flange depending from the housing of the
transport unit.
This provides a concealed connection between the two units.
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The releasable locking mechanism preferably comprises one or more spring-
loaded
detents, which preferably project from the housing of the transport unit and
co-
operate with respective detent recesses provided in the lower part of the
front face of
the ATM.
The spring-loaded detents preferably each comprise a rounded detent head which
may
be in the form of a part-spherical head. This can provide a camming/snap-fit
on
pressing of the transport unit towards the ATM, after engagement of the hooks.
The ATM and transport unit are preferably provided with complementary
downwardly-divergent guide formations so configured as to guide the transport
unit
towards said predetermined assembled position when the hooks are engaged over
said
ATM lugs and the transport unit is urged/moves downwards to fully engage the
hooks
and lugs.
Thus the guide formations guide the transport unit in the lateral direction as
viewed
facing the ATM, as the transport unit moves downwards on the ATM.
The guide formations on the ATM are conveniently provided by protruding
portions
of the vertical side frame members of the ATM.
An electro-magnetically operated detent locking means is preferably provided
to lock
the detent in the projected, locking position, the detent locking means
comprising, for
example, a solenoid-operated pin extending through a bore in the detent when
the
detent is in a fully-projected position.
Each detent locking means may be used to provide a respective electrical
connection
between a respective circuit element of the ATM and a respective circuit
element of
the transport unit.
Each detent recess may be provided in a respective pad that is insulated from
the
surrounding material in which the pad is seated.
Since the detent recesses need not be very deep, they are easily cleanable in
use, and
should not attract attention by vandals.
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Preferably the circuit elements associated with the detent form part of a
signalling
circuit for providing signalling between the ATM and the transport assembly.
When the transport unit is required to receive power from the ATM, power
connections between the ATM and the transport unit preferably comprise spring-
loaded connector pins that engage with respective connector pads, the
connector pins
preferably being carried by the transport unit, and the connector pads by the
ATM
housing. (These may be of similar construction to those used on a car's fifth
door/hatch-back.)
In other words, mechanical engagement between a transport unit and another
entity in
the cash handling system may be established in an active manner, by
controlling
electromechanical means, or in a more passive manner as described above.
Although an ATM has been used above to exemplify mechanical engagement, any
other entity in a cash handling system may be configured with equal or similar
means
for providing equal or similar functionality.
The cash center 900 illustrated in figure 9 performs the function of being
depositories
for cash and receive and provide cash from and to transport units. A cash
docking
station 952 is connected to a communication and control system 904 and is
configured to interact with a cash transport apparatus at least in such a
manner that it
receives cash from a transport unit, e.g. any of the transport units 600, 700,
800
described above, and provides output of cash into any type of cash container,
such as
bags and boxes including any type of transport unit such as the transport
units 600,
700, 800 described above. However, output of cash may also be provided in the
most
simple manner by simply dumping cash through a chute or similar mechanical
arrangement.
Hence, similar to the cash docking station 352 described above in connection
with
figure 3, the cash docking station 952 comprises a cash input/output unit 960
that is
configured to receive input of cash from a transport unit and provide output
of cash
into, e.g. bags and boxes. The cash input/output unit 960 is also configured
such that
it is capable of storing cash that has been input, until a later time when
output is
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desired, for example at a time immediately prior to removing the cash from the
cash
center 900.
Further, a control and communication unit 958 is connected to, and configured
to
control, the cash input/output unit 960 as well as a signaling interface unit
962.
5 Mechanical engagement and disengagement between the input/output unit 960
and a
transport unit may hence be controlled, via electromechanical means (not
shown) in
the input/output 960, by the control and communication unit 958 that,
preferably,
cooperates with corresponding control means in a transport unit. However,
mechanical engagement may also be established in a more passive manner without
10 electromechanical control, as described above.
The control and communication unit 958 may comprise any suitable programmable
circuitry and memory means, as the skilled person will realize when
implementing
the cash docking station 352.
The signaling interface unit 962 is configured to be connected with a
corresponding
15 signaling interface unit in a cash transport unit, e.g. any of the
transport units 600,
700, 800 described above, and thereby configured to convey signaling
information
and data to and from the transport unit. As will be discussed in more detail
below,
signaling between a cash docking station and a transport unit will entail
exchanging
information relating to cash transactions such as time stamps, amounts of cash
input
20 or cash output etc. as well as information relating to cash transport
procedures during
interaction with a cash transport unit such as time stamps, identification and
authorization information etc. as well as cash amounts.
The cash center 900 is connected, via the control and communication unit 904,
to a
network 906. As the skilled person will realize, the network 906 may be any
suitably
25 configured communication network including both wired and wireless
networks. As
will be discussed in more detail below, communication over the network 906
will
entail transmission of signaling information and data between the cash center
900,
other cash centers and banks, as well as shops, ATMs, vehicles and transport
units,
relating to cash transactions as well as cash transport operations.
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The bank 1000 illustrated in figure 10 performs functions such as keeping
records
associated with bank accounts belonging to customers such as shops and
individual
customers, as the skilled person will realize. The means needed to perform
such bank
functions include a database 1060 and a communication and control system 1004.
Information relating to transactions with other entities in a cash handling
system, such
as the system 100 discussed above, are conveyed via the communication and
control
system 1004 and a network 1006
Turning now to figure 11, a cash docking station 1100 having a very simple
configuration will be described. A cash input unit 1110 and a signal connector
1112
are configured to mate with a cash transport unit 1116, such as any of the
transport
units discussed above. The cash input unit 1110 is connected, via a cash flow
path
1114, to a cash output unit 1111 to which a cash receiving arrangement 1160 is
optionally attachable. The cash receiving arrangement 1160 may be any
container
configured to receive and hold cash, such as a bag, box, ATM cash box etc.
The signal connector 1112 is connected too the cash input unit 1110 in such a
manner
that it provides an indication of an established mating between a transport
unit and the
docking station 1100. This connection and indication may be in a form of a
purely
mechanical interface, not involving electrical signaling, the operation of
which
triggers the docking station to receive cash from the mated transport unit
1116 and to
convey the cash via the cash flow path 1114 and the output unit 1111,
outputting the
cash to an operator directly or indirectly into a bag, box etc. as indicated
by the
receiving arrangement 1160. The signal connector 1112 and it's effect on the
cash
input unit 1110 may also be configured such that electric signaling is
involved, as
exemplified above in connection with figures 3 and 9.
Although not shown in figure 11, the docking station 1100 may be configured in
a
manner that is "reverse" to that in figure 11. That is, the cash input unit
1110 and the
cash output unit 1111 may be interchanged to allow input of cash from any
suitable
type of cash providing apparatus, including simple manual feeding of cash by
hand as
well as any cash transport unit such as a stacker box, a cash bag etc. Output
of cash in
such a "reverse" docking station may be to a transport box , such as any
transport box
described above.
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Turning now to figure 12, a more elaborated cash docking station 1200 will be
described. Similar to the docking apparatus 1100 described above, the cash
docking
station 1200 comprises a cash input unit 1210 configured to mate with a cash
transport unit 1216, such as any of the transport units discussed above. The
cash input
unit 1210 is connected, via a first cash flow path 1215, a cash storage and
processing
unit 1213 and a second cash flow path 1217, to a cash output unit 1211 to
which a
cash receiving arrangement 1260 is optionally attachable. The cash receiving
arrangement 1260 may be any container configured to receive and hold cash,
such as
a bag, box, ATM cash box etc., but also more simple configurations are
possible such
as simple stacking of notes.
A docking station controller 1208 is configured to receive and process signals
from
an input unit signal connector 1216 and an output unit signal connector 1214,
as well
as other input means such as a keypad or touch sensitive display 1223 and from
external signal sources from entities of a communication network 1206 via a
communication interface 1222. Examples of entities connected to the network
include
cash centers (including a cash center at which the docking station 1200 is
arranged) as
well as banks. Signals originating in the cash storage and processing unit
1213 are
also handled by the controller 1208.
As indicated in figure 12, the cash docking station 1200 is arranged in a wall
1240
between a first environment 1241 and a second environment 1242. The first and
second environment 1241, 1242 may represent a respective non-protected and
protected part of a cash center, vehicle, bank or shop etc. Typically,
protected entails
at least protection from physical access by unauthorized persons and may
involve
mechanical and electrical barriers. As indicated by the dashed line 1240', the
cash
docking station 1200 itself may also be configured such that it is divided
into a non-
protected and protected part, each forming part of the first environment 1241
and
second environment 1242, respectively.
In operation, the docking station controller 1208 detects, via the input unit
signal
connector 1216, that a transport unit 1216 is attached to the cash input unit
1210 and
that the cash output unit 1211 is ready to receive cash via the first cash
flow path
1215, the cash storage and processing unit 1213 and the second cash flow path
1217.
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Although not shown in detail in figure 12, input means 1219, connected to the
docking station controller 1208 may be configured to be operated by an
operator
providing the transport unit 1216, such a keypad and a smart card reader etc.
The
detection that he cash output unit 1211 is ready to receive cash may, for
example, be
via the output unit signal connector 1214 or via any other signaling means,
including
the keypad 1223 and a network connected entity. Then, by providing signals to
electromechanical means (not shown) in the transport unit 1216, the cash input
unit
1210, the first and second cash flow paths 1215,1217, the cash storage and
processing
unit 1213 and the cash output unit 1211, cash is conveyed from the transport
unit
1216 and the cash output unit 1260.
The operational control performed by the controller 1208 may further be
dependent
on an exchange of authentication and authorization information between the
transport
unit 1216 and the controller 1208. For example, as will be exemplified further
below,
an operator bringing a transport unit 1216 to the docking station 1200 may be
requested to perform an authentication procedure by providing a PIN code via
the
keypad before the cash input unit 1210 is enabled, by the controller 1208, to
connect
to the transport unit 1216.
During the conveying of cash, the cash storage and processing unit 1213 may
perform
a number of operations, including note validation (i.e. detection of
potentially
counterfeit notes), note fitness sorting, denomination sorting, foreign
denomination
sorting, detection of facing and orientation.
By configuring the docking station 1200 in a vehicle, such as any of the
vehicles 116,
118 in the system depicted in figure 1, it is possible to provide a roaming
cash center.
Such a roaming cash center may perform many of the functions typically
performed
at a cash center with added advantages such as increased flexibility, speed
and
security. For example, a roaming cash center with a docking station that is
configured
to receive cash from transport units and to provide output of cash into
typical ATM
cash boxes will be able to operate more efficiently. In contrast to prior art
operation,
such a roaming cash center will spend less time moving from shops where cash
is
picked up to cash centers where cash is conveyed via docking stations into ATM
cash
boxes that in turn are transported to ATMs. When operating the docking station
in
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such a scenario, it may be desirable to configure the cash storage and
processing unit
1213 to operate as an accumulator of cash, i.e. performing an intermediate
storage
function, for use during such operations involving re-packing of cash from a
first type
of transport unit to another type of transport unit.
Turning now to figures 13, 14 and 15, flow of cash and signals in a cash
handling
system, such as the system 100 described with reference to figure 1, will now
be
described in more detail. A central concept that will be used, and in fact has
already
been briefly mentioned in the description above, is the concept of
transactions. A
transaction is to be interpreted as a sequence of events that takes place
between at
least two entities in a cash handling system such as the system 100 described
above.
During a transaction a transfer of information and/or cash takes place between
the
involved entities. The duration of a transaction is difficult to specify and
may vary
within a large interval of time. That is, a transaction may involve actions to
be
performed manually by a person and also involve exchange of cash and/or
information that require acknowledgements from a receiving entity to the
providing
entity, and if any acknowledging entity is delayed for some reason, the
transaction
may be delayed for any amount of time. However, a transaction is typically a
sequence of information and cash exchanging events that take place during a
short
time interval.
As briefly discussed above, information that is exchanged between entities
during
transactions in a cash handling system includes time stamps pertaining to
transactions
and any other event, identification and authorization information as well as
cash
amounts. This information is typically data that is stored within memory means
that
form part of control and communication circuitry in the different entities
involved in
a transaction.
An important concept involved in many transactions is that of ownership of
cash. A
change of ownership of cash may be a central issue in a transaction and hence
be the
subject of several exchanges of information signals between different entities
in a
cash handling system. Ownership of a specified amount of cash is typically
registered
at a trusted entity in a cash handling system, typically at a bank, in the
form of a level
of assets that may be claimed by an owner in the form of cash. Hence, the
information
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that is exchanged between entities during transactions in a cash handling
system may
also include instructions to change ownership of specific amounts, typically
corresponding to a specific amount of cash being conveyed between two
interacting
entities in the cash handling system.
5 The processing steps, the control steps as well as the signaling steps that
are to be
described below are typically performed by way of interacting control and
communication units in the respective entities in a cash handling system.
These
control and communication units are provided with one or more computer
programs
comprising software instructions as described above.
10 Now, primarily with reference to figures 1, 13a and 13b, a sequence of
events and
transactions will be described involving flow of cash and flow of information
signals
in a cash handling system 100. The sequence is initiated at ATM 102, continues
via
transport unit 110 to docking station 117 in cash center 120 and bank 124.
Figure 13a
is a diagram illustrating exchange of signals and cash between the different
entities
15 involved and figure 13b is a flowchart illustrating the processing and
signaling steps
performed by the entities.
In a triggering step 1301, the ATM 102 determines by means of sensing and
control
circuitry (not shown) that the ATM's supply of cash is close to being
exhausted. The
ATM establishes a communication channel with the bank 124 to which it is
affiliated
20 and performs a signaling sequence with the bank 124 during which
information
exchange 1302 takes place. Typically, information that is exchanged includes
an
ATM identifier and a timestamp indicating an estimated time when the ATM 102
expects to be out of cash.
During the triggering step 1301, the bank 124 establishes a communication
channel
25 with the cash center 120 and exchanges information 1304 including an order
to
provide cash to the ATM 102. Typically, information 1304 that is exchanged
between
the bank 124 and the cash center 120 includes the ATM identifier, possibly
also
complemented with the location of the ATM 102, an amount of cash that is to be
supplied to the ATM 102 as well as a time indicating when, at the latest, the
ATM is
30 to be supplied with the cash. Additionally, the order may also comprise
instructions to
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retrieve, from the ATM, any notes of cash that is unfit for circulation, such
as unfit
notes not valid for circulation and potentially counterfeit notes. The order
from the
bank 124 to the cash center 120 to provide cash to the ATM 102 results in that
the
transport unit 110 is loaded, in a cash loading step 1303, with cash by using
the
docking station 117 at the cash center 120.
During the cash loading step 1303, communication and control circuitry (not
shown)
in the docking station 117 and the cash center 120 communicate, during which
at
least information pertaining to the information 1304 in the order is provided
to the
docking station 117. The docking station 117 and the transport unit 110, which
is
mechanically and electrically attached to the docking station 117, then
communicate
and exchange information 1308 at least pertaining to the information 1304 in
the
order, whereby the transport unit 110 is made ready to receive cash. If
necessary, this
information transfer is performed following an appropriate AAA-protocol. Cash
1310
is then conveyed from the docking station 117 to the transport unit 110.
Electric,
mechanical and electromechanical means incorporated in respective cash
input/output
units (not shown) comprised in the transport unit 110 and the docking station
117
interact under supervision of control means (not shown) in the transport unit
110 and
the docking station 117.
After any post-processing (not shown) such as logging of the cash transfer
etc.
between the docking station 117 and the transport unit 110, the cash transport
unit
110 is then transported to the ATM 102. As exemplified elsewhere in this
specification, the actual moving of the cash transport unit 110 may be
realized by
means of a vehicle or by any other means. If, for example, the cash center 120
is
located close to the ATM 102, moving the transport unit 110 may simply entail
an
operator carrying the transport unit 120 to the ATM 102.
After mechanical attachment and electric connection of the transport unit 120
to the
ATM 102, an initiation step 1305 takes place. During the initiation step 1305
exchange of information 1312 is performed between the ATM and the transport
unit
110 and the information 1312 is processed in each of the ATM 102 and the
transport
unit 110 in order to ensure that provision of cash is made possible in
accordance with
the order previously sent from the bank 124 to the cash center 120.
Specifically, a
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number of operations are performed following an appropriate authentication,
authorization and accounting protocol (AAA-protocol). Thereby, the control
means
(not shown) in the transport unit 110 recognize that the ATM 102 is in fact
the
designated ATM to which a specific amount of cash is to be provided and that
there is
no risk of an unauthorized entity receiving the cash.
In a cash conveying step 1307, the specific amount of cash 1314 is conveyed
from the
transport unit 110 to the ATM and any unfit notes not valid for circulation
and
potentially counterfeit notes are retrieved from the ATM 102. During this
step,
electric, mechanical and electromechanical means incorporated in respective
cash
input/output units (not shown) comprised in the ATM 102 and the transport unit
110
interact under supervision of control means (not shown) in the ATM 102 as well
as
the transport unit 110.
Following the cash conveying step 1307 is a confirmation step 1309 during
which
information 1316 relating to the progress and success of the cash conveying is
exchanged between the ATM 102 and the transport unit 110. Typically, the ATM
102
provides information confirming that the amount of cash received from the
transport
unit 102 is equal to the specific amount of cash that was desired. Such
information,
typically also including at least a time stamp of the event, is logged and
stored in
storage means (not shown) in the ATM 102 as well as in the transport unit 110.
Displaying and printing, using display and printing means (not shown), of such
logging information is typically also performed and thereby providing, e.g., a
written
receipt of the transaction to an operator of the transport unit 110. After
this
information exchange, the input/output means of the ATM 102 and the transport
unit
110 are controlled to detach from each other.
During the confirmation step 1309, the ATM 102 exchanges information 1318 with
the bank 124. This information exchange typically includes the same
information as
exchanged between the ATM 102 and the transport unit 110 previously during the
confirmation step 1309 as discussed above, having a purpose of providing a
confirmation to the bank 124 that the order 1304 sent to the cash center 120
has been
performed successfully.
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After being mechanically and electrically disengaged from the ATM 102, the
transport unit 110 is returned in a movement step 1311 to the cash center 120.
Although not illustrated in figure 13a and 13b, the transport unit 110 may
have
performed any number of procedures providing cash to other ATM's than the ATM
102 as discussed above before performing the return movement 1311 to the cash
center 120.
When arriving at the cash center 120, the transport unit is again attached to
the
docking station 117 and an initiation step 1313 takes place. During this
initiation step
1313, the transport unit 110 provides information pertaining to any
transactions that
have been performed with any ATM. If necessary, this information transfer is
performed following an appropriate AAA-protocol.
Then, in a cash conveying step 1315, any remaining cash 1322 in the transport
unit
110 is conveyed to the docking station 117, including any unfit notes not
valid for
circulation and potentially counterfeit notes.
In a confirmation step 1315 information 1324 relating to the progress and
success of
the cash conveying between the transport unit and the docking station 117 is
exchanged, similar to the confirmation step 1309 performed between the
transport
unit 110 and the ATM. Displaying and printing, using display and printing
means
(not shown), of such logging information is typically also performed and
thereby
providing, e.g., a written receipt of the transactions performed by the
transport unit
110 to an operator at the cash center. After this information exchange, the
input/output means of the transport unit 110 and the docking station 117 are
typically
controlled to detach from each other.
Operators at the cash center 120 then communicate with the docking station
117, for
example via a keypad (not shown) on the docking station or via a cash center
communication network (not shown) to which the docking station 117 is
connected.
During this communication, information 1326 is exchanged, typically regarding
amounts of cash stored in the docking station as well as instructions to the
docking
station 117 to provide and receive cash 1328. For example, instructions may be
provided in order to make the docking station 117 output cash into bags or
into any
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other suitable cash container for storage or for further conveying to a bank
etc.
Instructions may also be provided to the docking station 117 in order to make
the
docking station 117 receive cash.
Finally, in a confirmation step 1321, the cash center 120 again communicates
with the
bank 124 and exchanges information 1330, typically pertaining to any
transactions
performed that relate to previous orders to supply cash to the ATM 102 and any
other
ATM that has been subject to such ordered cash supply transactions.
Now, primarily with reference to figures 1, 14a and 14b, a sequence of events
and
transactions will be described involving flow of cash and flow of information
signals
in a cash handling system 100. The sequence is initiated at one or more
customers
101, paying for articles or services at a shop 108, continues via transport
unit 114 and
vehicle 118 to cash center 122 and bank 126. Figure 14a is a diagram
illustrating
exchange of signals and cash between the different entities involved and
figure 14b is
a flowchart illustrating the processing and signaling steps performed by the
involved
entities.
The sequence of events begins with a customer payment step 1401, which for the
sake of clarity is described as a single step being representative of a large
number of
customer payments events that, for example, are performed during a period of
one
day in the shop 108, such as any of the shops described with reference to
figure 2 and
figure 3. During the customer payment step 1401, the customer 101 interacts
with the
shop 108 via a cash handling apparatus and a shop control and communication
system
(not shown in figure 14a), such as any of the cash handling apparatuses 202
and 302
and control and communication systems 204 and 304, as described with reference
to
figures 2 and 3, respectively. The interaction between the customer 10 and the
shop
108 may entail assistance from a teller or the customer may interact without
assistance in a "self-checkout" manner. Cash 1402 is provided from the
customer 101
to the shop 108 and confirmation information 1404, typically in the form of a
receipt
of the articles or services paid for, is provided by the shop 108 to the
customer 101.
A cash transport unit 114 is then brought to the shop 108 and mechanically and
electrically attached to the cash handling apparatus in the shop 108, as
discussed
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above, after which an initiation step 1403 takes place. During the initiation
step 1403
exchange of information 1406 is performed between the cash handling apparatus
in
the shop 108 and the transport unit 114, typically performed following an
appropriate
AAA-protocol where at least identification information is exchanged in order
to
5 authorize the transport unit 114 to receive cash from the cash handling
apparatus in
the shop 108, and vice versa. The information 1406 further comprises at least
data
regarding a specific amount of cash that is to be conveyed to the transport
unit 114.
The information 1406 may also comprise data regarding amounts of cash that is
to be
conveyed from the transport unit 114 to the cash handling apparatus in the
shop 108.
10 For example, the shop 108 may have a particular need for specific
denominations of
notes or a specific currency. It is typically also desirable to convey unfit
notes not
valid for circulation and potentially counterfeit notes from the cash handling
apparatus in the shop 108 to the transport unit 114. Hence, during the
initiation step
1406, the transport unit 114 may confirm that cash is also to be provided to
the shop
15 108, in addition to receiving cash from the shop 108.
Then, in a cash conveying step 1405, the specific amount of cash 1408,
including any
unfit notes not valid for circulation and potentially counterfeit notes, is
conveyed
from the cash handling apparatus in the shop 108 to the transport unit 114 and
any
specific amount of cash 1408 is conveyed from the transport unit 114 to the
shop 108.
20 During this step, electric, mechanical and electromechanical means
incorporated in
respective cash input/output units (not shown) comprised in the cash apparatus
in the
shop 108 and the transport unit 114 interact under supervision of control
means (not
shown) in the cash apparatus in the shop 108 as well as the transport unit
114.
Following the cash conveying step 1405 is a confirmation step 1407 during
which
25 information 1410 relating to the progress and success of the cash conveying
is
exchanged between the cash apparatus in the shop 108 and the transport unit
114.
Typically, the transport apparatus 114 provides information confirming that
the
amount of cash received from the cash apparatus in the shop 108 is equal to
the
specific amount of cash that was negotiated during the initiation step 1403.
Such
30 information, typically also including at least a time stamp of the event,
is logged and
stored in storage means (not shown) in the shop 108 as well as in the
transport unit
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46
114. Displaying and printing, using display and printing means (not shown), of
such
logging information is typically also performed and thereby providing, e.g., a
written
receipt of the transaction to staff in the shop 108 and to an operator of the
transport
unit 114. Moreover, during the confirmation step 1407, the shop 108 and the
bank
126 establishes a connection and exchanges confirmation information 1412 that
at
least comprises data pertaining to the conveying of cash between the cash
apparatus
in the shop 108 and the transport unit 114. Although not explicitly
illustrated in figure
14a, the transport unit 114 may also take part in this exchange of
confirmation
information 1412 with the bank 124, for example for the purpose of confirming
to the
bank 124 that it has received a specific amount of cash from the shop 108.
Information that is communicated with the bank 124 may include instructions to
change ownership of the specific amount that was conveyed. For example, as a
result
of the instructions, when these have been acted upon by the bank 124, a bank
account
belonging to the shop 108 may be credited with the amount of cash that has
been
conveyed to the transport unit 114.
After this information exchange, the input/output means of the cash apparatus
in the
shop 108 and the transport unit 114 are controlled to detach from each other.
In a transport unit moving step 1409, the transport unit 114 is moved into the
vehicle
118 for transport to the cash center 122, possibly via further visits to shops
where
cash is conveyed in procedures similar to the procedure described above with
regard
to steps 1401 to 1407. In the vehicle 118, which for the purpose of this
embodiment is
realized by the vehicle 500 described above in connection with figure 5, the
transport
unit 114 is electrically and mechanically connected to the transport unit rack
530.
When connected to the rack 530, the transport unit 114 and the control and
communication unit 508 in the vehicle 118 perform an initiation step 1411.
During
the initiation step 1411, information 1414 is exchanged between the transport
unit
114 and the vehicle 118. The information 1414 comprises, in addition to any
necessary identification and authentication information with respect to the
transport
unit 114, information regarding at least pertaining to the transactions
performed
during steps 1401 to 1407 described above. Hence, identification information
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47
regarding shops and amounts of cash conveyed from shops is received by the
control
and communication unit 508 in the vehicle 118.
In a subsequent confirmation step 1413, the control and communication unit 508
in
the vehicle 118 communicates via the radio frequency transceiver unit 532,
antenna
533, radio interface 507 and network 506 with the cash center 122. During this
communication, information 1416 is exchanged between the vehicle 118 and the
cash
center 122, the information comprising at least identification information
regarding
shops and amounts of cash conveyed from shops as described above with
reference to
steps 1401 to 1407. This confirmation step 1413 is preferably performed within
a
very short time interval from the steps 1409 and 1411, when the transport unit
114
connects with the vehicle 118, in order to provide the cash center 122 with up
to date
information that may pertain to the ability to supervise (possibly via the
transport
service control center 128 as discussed above) the vehicle 118. Such
supervision may
be terms of security measures to be taken in case of unauthorized access to
the
vehicle 118 is attempted.
In order to further facilitate for the cash center 122, or the transport
service control
center 128 acting on instructions from the cash center 122, to supervise the
vehicle
118, status information 1418 is exchanged between the vehicle 118 and the cash
center 122 during a status reporting step 1415. Needless to say, the status
reporting
step 1415 may be repeated any number of times during the time the vehicle 118
is
conveying cash among entities in the system 100. The status information 1418
may
include geographical location information as well as any other security
related
information.
When the vehicle 118 arrives at the cash center 122, the transport unit 118 is
attached
to the docking station 121 and an initiation step 1417 takes place. During
this
initiation step 1417, the transport unit 114 provides information pertaining
to any
transactions that have been performed with any shop, including the
transactions
performed with shop 108 as described above with reference to steps 1401 to
1407.
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Then, in a cash conveying step 1419, cash 1422 in the transport unit 114 is
conveyed
to the docking station 121, including any unfit notes not valid for
circulation and
potentially counterfeit notes.
In a confirmation step 1421 information 1424 relating to the progress and
success of
the cash conveying between the transport unit and the docking station 121 is
exchanged, similar to the confirmation step 1407 performed between the
transport
unit 114 and the shop 108. Displaying and printing, using display and printing
means
(not shown), of such logging information is typically also performed and
thereby
providing, e.g., a written receipt of the transactions performed by the
transport unit
114 to an operator at the cash center 122. After this transfer of information
1424, the
docking station 121 and the cash center 122 connect with each other and
exchanges
information 1426, typically information from the docking station 121 reporting
and
confirming that cash has been received from the transport unit 114. The
input/output
means of the transport unit 114 and the docking station 121 are typically
controlled to
detach from each other.
The cash center 122 then connects with the bank 126 and exchanges information
1428, typically summarizing information from the docking station 121 and any
other
docking station reporting and confirming that cash has been received.
Now, primarily with reference to figures 1, 15a and 15b, a sequence of events
and
transactions will be described involving flow of cash and flow of information
signals
in a cash handling system 100. The sequence is initiated at a shop 106,
continues via
transport unit 112 and docking station 119 to ATM 104. Figure 15a is a diagram
illustrating exchange of signals and cash between the different entities
involved and
figure 15b is a flowchart illustrating the processing and signaling steps
performed by
the involved entities.
The scenario in which these sequence of events and transactions are part of,
is one
where the bank 124, with which the ATM 104 is affiliated, and the shop 106
have
made an agreement which makes the shop 106 responsible for providing cash to
the
ATM 104 on a regular basis. Typically, in such a scenario, the ATM 104 is
located in
or very near the shop 106, thereby avoiding the need for a dedicated cash
transport
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49
service involving vehicles conveying the cash. The docking station 119 is
typically
located in a "back office" part of the shop 106 and is under the control and
supervision of shop staff.
Prior to the sequence of events and transactions that characterize this
embodiment,
customers have interacted with the shop 106 via a cash handling apparatus and
a shop
control and communication system (not shown in figure 15a), such as any of the
cash
handling apparatuses 202 and 302 and control and communication systems 204 and
304, as described with reference to figures 2 and 3, respectively. As in other
embodiments described elsewhere, the interactions between the customers and
the
shop 106 may have entailed assistance from a teller or the customers may
interacted
without assistance in a "self-checkout" manner. In any case, shop staff has
made a
decision to remove some or all cash from the cash handling apparatus in the
shop 106
by means of the cash transport unit 112.
Hence, the cash transport unit 112 is brought to the shop 106 and mechanically
and
electrically attached to the cash handling apparatus in the shop 106, for
example as
discussed above, after which an initiation step 1501 takes place. During the
initiation
step 1501 exchange of information 1502 is performed between the cash handling
apparatus in the shop 106 and the transport unit 112, typically performed
following an
appropriate AAA-protocol where at least identification information is
exchanged in
order to authorize the transport unit 112 to receive cash from the cash
handling
apparatus in the shop 106, and vice versa. The information 1502 further
comprises at
least data regarding a specific amount of cash that is to be conveyed to the
transport
unit 112.
Then, in a cash conveying step 1503, the specific amount of cash 1504 is
conveyed
from the cash handling apparatus in the shop 106 to the transport unit 112.
During
this step, electric, mechanical and electromechanical means incorporated in
respective
cash input/output units (not shown) comprised in the cash apparatus in the
shop 106
and the transport unit 112 interact under supervision of control means (not
shown) in
the cash apparatus in the shop 106 as well as the transport unit 112.
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Following the cash conveying step 1503 is a confirmation step 1505 during
which
information 1506 relating to the progress and success of the cash conveying is
exchanged between the cash apparatus in the shop 106 and the transport unit
112.
Typically, the transport apparatus 112 provides information confirming that
the
5 amount of cash received from the cash apparatus in the shop 106 is equal to
the
specific amount of cash that was negotiated during the initiation step 1501.
Such
information, typically also including at least a time stamp of the event, is
logged and
stored in storage means (not shown) in the shop 106 as well as in the
transport unit
112. Displaying and printing, using display and printing means (not shown), of
such
10 logging information is typically also performed and thereby providing,
e.g., a written
receipt of the transaction to staff in the shop 106 and to an operator of the
transport
unit 112. After this information exchange, the input/output means of the cash
apparatus in the shop 106 and the transport unit 112 are controlled to detach
from
each other.
15 In a transport unit moving step 1507, the transport unit 112 is then moved,
possibly
via further visits to cash handling apparatuses where cash is conveyed in
procedures
similar to the procedure described above with regard to steps 1501 to 1505, to
the
back-office docking station 119.
After mechanical and electric attachment of the transport unit 112 to the
docking
20 station 119, an initiation step 1509 takes place. During this initiation
step 1509, the
transport unit 112 provides information 1508 pertaining to any transactions
that have
been performed with any cash handling apparatus in the shop 106, including the
transactions performed as described above with reference to steps 1501 to
1505.
Typically, this transfer of information 1508 is performed following an
appropriate
25 AAA-protocol.
Then, in a cash conveying step 1511, cash 1510 in the transport unit 114 is
conveyed
to the docking station 119, including any unfit notes not valid for
circulation and
potentially counterfeit notes. The cash is stored in the docking station 119
for later
retrieval and conveying to the transport unit 112 or any other transport unit
authorized
30 to connect with the docking station 119.
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In a confirmation step 1513 information 1512 relating to the progress and
success of
the cash conveying between the transport unit 112 and the docking station 119
is
exchanged, similar to the confirmation step 1506 performed between the
transport
unit 112 and the cash handling apparatus in the shop 106. Displaying and
printing,
using display and printing means (not shown), of such logging information is
typically also performed and thereby providing, e.g., a written receipt of the
transactions performed by the transport unit 112 to shop staff.
After receiving direct instructions from the bank 124 or by acting in
accordance with
agreed procedures, shop staff is now to perform a procedure of refilling the
ATM 104
with cash. Needless to say, the time at which this refilling is ordered may
vary
depending on the specific situation. Information regarding the refilling
procedure,
such as the amount of cash that the ATM 104 requires, may form part of direct
instructions or may be stipulated in accordance with agreed procedures. A
simple
example of an agreed procedure may entail that the shop 106 (i.e. shop staff)
is to
refill the ATM 104 once every day with as much cash as cash storage means (not
shown) in the ATM 104 can store.
During an initiation step 1517, the docking station 119 and the transport unit
112,
which has been mechanically and electrically connected to the docking station
119,
communicate and exchange information 1514. As exemplified above, the
information
1514 includes at least an identifier of the transport unit and typically also
information
regarding the amount of cash that is to be conveyed. The transfer of
information 1514
is typically performed following an appropriate AAA-protocol. This results in
that the
transport unit 112 is made ready to receive cash.
Cash 1516 is then conveyed from the docking station 119 to the transport unit
112 in
a cash conveying step 1519 during which electric, mechanical and
electromechanical
means incorporated in respective cash input/output units (not shown) comprised
in
the transport unit 112 and the docking station 119 interact under supervision
of
control means (not shown) in the transport unit 112 and the docking station
119.
After a confirmation step 1521, during which information 1518 regarding the
previously performed conveying 1519 of cash 1516 between the docking station
117
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52
and the transport unit 110 is exchanged, the cash transport unit 112 is
transported to
the ATM 104 during a movement step 1523. Moving the transport unit 112
typically
entails a shop staff carrying the transport unit 112 to the ATM 104.
After mechanical attachment and electric connection of the transport unit 112
to the
ATM 104, an initiation step 1525 takes place. During the initiation step 1525
exchange of information 1520 is performed between the ATM and the transport
unit
112 and the information 1520 is processed in each of the ATM 104 and the
transport
unit 112 in order to ensure that provision of cash is made possible in
accordance with
the instructions previously received, either directly from the bank 124 or
indirectly in
accordance with an agreement between the shop 106 and the bank 124. Typically,
a
number of operations are performed following an appropriate authentication,
authorization and accounting protocol (AAA-protocol). Thereby, the control
means
(not shown) in the transport unit 112 recognize that the ATM 104 is in fact
the
designated ATM to which an amount of cash is to be provided and that there is
no
risk of an unauthorized entity receiving the cash. Although the amount of cash
to be
provided to the ATM 104 may have been specified in terms of a predetermined
sum,
the amount of cash may also be unspecified, or possibly only be specified as
an upper
limit. If left unspecified, cash conveying is to be performed until the ATM
104 is
fully loaded with cash.
In a cash conveying step 1527, the cash 1522 is conveyed from the transport
unit 112
to the ATM 104. Additionally, any unfit notes not valid for circulation and
potentially
counterfeit notes may be retrieved from the ATM 104 into the transport unit
112.
During this step, electric, mechanical and electromechanical means
incorporated in
respective cash input/output units (not shown) comprised in the ATM 104 and
the
transport unit 112 interact under supervision of control means (not shown) in
the
ATM 104 as well as the transport unit 112.
Following the cash conveying step 1527 is a confirmation step 1529 during
which
information 1524 relating to the progress and success of the cash conveying
1527 is
exchanged between the ATM 104 and the transport unit 112. Typically, the ATM
104
provides information confirming the amount of cash received from the transport
unit
102 is equal to the amount of cash that was desired. Such information,
typically also
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53
including at least a time stamp of the event, is logged and stored in storage
means
(not shown) in the ATM 104 as well as in the transport unit 112. Displaying
and
printing, using display and printing means (not shown), of such logging
information
is typically also performed and thereby providing, e.g., a written receipt of
the
transaction to the shop staff operating the transport unit 112. After this
information
exchange, the input/output means of the ATM 104 and the transport unit 112 are
controlled to detach from each other.
Finally, during a confirmation step 1531, the ATM 104 exchanges information
1526
with the bank 124. This information exchange typically includes the same
information as exchanged between the ATM 104 and the transport unit 112
previously during the confirmation step 1529 as discussed above, having a
purpose of
providing a confirmation to the bank 124 that the shop 106 has performed in
accordance with instructions.
A variation of the procedure described above in connection with figures 15a
and 15b
is one in which steps 1509 to 1523 are omitted. That is, after conveying cash
from the
shop 106 to the transport unit 112, the steps involving docking of the
transport unit
112 with the docking station 119 may be omitted. In such a procedure, the
transport
unit 112 is immediately moved from the shop 106, after having received cash
from a
cash handling apparatus, to the ATM 104 and the procedure continuing directly
with
steps 1525 to 1531, as described above.
